jon's blog

Why Does God Love Me?

2012-01-25T12:39:00.000-08:00

Something I did at the beginning of this year was ask the youth to write some of their questions about God, the Bible, or life on an index card without putting their name on it. This gives them the freedom to ask about anything without having to say it out loud and feeling embarrassed because they didn't know it. It also gives me great insights into what is happening in their lives and how I can best serve them in my teaching. On one of these cards I got a very interesting question: Why does God love me?

I found this question so interesting for a couple of reasons: One, I have asked this question so many times. Particularly when I have recently sinned or done something stupid.(Which seems to happen more than I would like) Second, the question is deep. The person understood that God does love them, but revealing why would almost certainly grant a more intimate relationship with Jesus.

The answer is more simple than you would think. Sometimes we really over complicate things, don't we? Especially when it is something we don't understand. We look for long, in-depth analysis for every possible circumstance, when really all we need to do is look at the source. The best source for understanding anything about God is His word, the Bible.

Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, all the earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; He created him in the image of God;  He created them male and female. - Genesis 1:26-27

Why does God love us? Because we are His creation! We are made in His image! And when we accept Jesus Christ as our savior, we become even more. We become His children!

Look at how great a love the Father has given us that we should be called God’s children. - 1 John 3:1

Just as any respectable person would love their own child, so God loves us!

In Christ,
jon walton
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A Salad...

2012-01-12T11:30:00.000-08:00

Good news everyone! There are some of us who are trying very hard to "eat healthier" at the beginning of this new year. For those of you who are doing your best to stick with this challenge, I thought I would share a salad recipe that my wife and I came up with. It is surprisingly filling, and unlike so many other things I have tried, it is actually very tasty!

So here is how you make it:

Step 1: Make a nice bed of lettuce and spinach leaves. (I know you can't really see it that well in the pic, but it is there on the bottom)

Step 2: Add some fruit! I have tomatoes, gala apples, mandarin oranges, and raisins in mine. The oranges and tomatoes go very well together! I did not expect that.

Step 3: Add some crunch! The apples give it a nice texture, but they are not enough of a replacement for croutons for me. I used almond slivers. They give it a nice crunch without taking away from the other flavors.

Step 4: The dressing. My wife found this when we made it the first time. Take one or two of your orange slices and squeeze them over the entire salad. This makes for a very nice dressing as it coats the lettuce and spinach with the orange juice.

Your result is a very "sweet" tasting salad. I have had three of these and I don't even like salad!

Hope this helps you stay on track!

In Christ,
jon walton
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It's An Opportunity...

2012-01-04T07:24:00.000-08:00

I was going through a drive through with my son, Isaiah, grabbing some supper from a busy day. As we pulled around to the window, we were talking about stealing. I've found that so many things we just know really need to be explained in detail to our kids and I think we all forget that from time to time. I arrived at the window, gave the lady my money and she handed me my change. When I checked it, she had given me back an extra $5 bill. I had a decision to make, keep it or give it back. I was tempted to keep it.

Isn't it funny how God does that? I was in the middle of explaining what stealing is to my 7 year old son by saying stealing is taking anything that doesn't belong to you without asking permission and now God is giving me a chance to display exactly what I was saying with words. But with every chance to do something good, something bad can be done just as easily. Or is it the other way around? You see, when we are tempted, it is an opportunity to show Jesus that we really do love Him and are willing to do more than just talk about it. We are willing to live it. This was my opportunity. In the midst of the temptation, I had the chance to do show God I love Him by my actions.

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it. - 1 Corinthians 10:13.

I told the lady she had given me too much money, handed her the $5 back, and she thanked me. As Isaiah and I pulled up to the next window, we discussed how that keeping that money really would have been stealing. Thanks God, for that opportunity.

In Christ,
jon walton
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A Potato?

2011-12-02T15:42:00.001-08:00

Isaiah and his cousin were outside playing. Suddenly, they came in saying that their hands were hurting really bad. Turns out they had broken a flag pole off one of their big wheels. That flag pole was made of fiberglass. Isaiah had pulled it apart right down the middle and they had both put their hands on the inside of the exposed, frayed fiberglass. Now, while this seemed like a good idea to them and it was lots of fun, it did not last for long. The whole time they were playing with that broken flag pole, they were getting nearly invisible fiberglass splinters in their hands! It didn't take long for it to start hurting.

We called the emergency room and they said to try putting duck tape on their hands to pull the splinters out. This worked some, but with Isaiah's hands particularly, there were lots not coming out. I thought we would have to take him to the ER when something popped in my head. A potato. I had remembered that someone told me if you ever get a wood splinter, slice a raw potato in half and rub the inside of it over the splinter and it would pull it out. I thought, "Its worth a shot." IT WORKED! Within a few minutes, we had all the splinters out of Isaiah's hands. Isaiah immediately said that his hands felt better! It was really pretty amazing.

So why are you reading about a home remedy? Because sin is like this. It looks good, fun, and pleasing at first, just like the flag pole did. But it doesn't take long for it to start to really hurt. Not only you, but others, too. In the same way it not only hurt Isaiah to play with the broken flag pole, but also his cousin, sin hurts other people you come in contact with as well. Paul wrote in his letter to the Hebrews 11 about "the short-lived pleasure of sin." He had an understanding of this fact: Sin is fun, but it doesn't last.

The great news is, there is a potato! It is Jesus Christ. He can remove our sin and heal our wounds, just like the potato can pull out splinters and make us feel better. We can try other things, like duck tape, but nothing will work except Jesus!

In Christ,
jon walton
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The Check Engine Light...

2011-11-15T06:02:00.001-08:00

The check engine light came on in my truck. I'm no genius when it comes to mechanics, but I know enough to tell when the engine is not running correctly. There was nothing wrong with the cycle of the engine, changing of gears, or anything largely out of the ordinary, so I left it. Eventually, I had a friend who has a computer that will tell what the engine light code is check it out. Turns out my engine is running a bit cool. Not sure how big of an effect this will have on my truck, but I know my truck was designed to run at a certain temperature. As long as it is not running at that temperature, it is not running as it should.

All this got me thinking, do we ignore our spiritual check engine light when it comes on? Maybe its a lacking prayer life, a persistent sin, no joy in our lives, or even no desire to spend personal or corporate time with God.

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me lead me in the everlasting way. (Psalm 139:23, 24 HCSB)

In Christ,
jon walton

My Dishwasher Broke...

2011-11-10T11:29:00.001-08:00

About a week ago, my dishwasher just stopped working. It was one of those weird, out of the blue type things. I had just finished unloading it from the previous round of dishes, loaded it back up and hit start. It began then quickly lost power.

I asked a friend if he would come over and help me look at it to see if we could fix it instead of buying a new one. He agreed and we found the problem. I ordered the part needed, but had to wait for it to be shipped. Should take about a week. Till then, I would just have to wait.

You want to know something interesting? Even though my dishwasher stopped working, my family still produced dirty dishes! Not only that, but those dishes still needed to be washed, dried, and put away. This was crazy, right? I mean, my dishwasher was broke and I was waiting on the part, it's not like I could do anything about it, right?

As absurd as the previous paragraph sounds, do we do this with God? When we pray for something and God doesn't answer right away, do we stop working on it until God speaks specifically? Are there not things that still need to be done? Just because you are waiting on God doesn't mean you stop work to fulfill His will for you. Look closely at this verse:

But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV)

Did you catch "renew their strength?" if they had stopped working on what they were waiting for, why would their strength need renewed?

Just like the dishes still need to be done even if you are waiting a part for the dishwasher, there is still work to be done on Jesus name while you are waiting on Him.

In Christ,
jon walton

The Corn Maze...

2011-10-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday our family went to a birthday party at the Hayes Farm, a local farm that has pumpkin patches, hay rides, games, inflatables, and a corn maze each year. It was a lot of fun for all of us and we really enjoyed it.

While we were there, the time came for us to go through the corn maze. There was only one entrance and one exit and they were fairly close to each other. Isaiah, our 6 year old son, was there playing with several of his friends, one of which is a little girl who lives on the farm and knew the maze quite well. As we were going into the maze, Isaiah asked if he could go with all his friends. It was a safe place and if he would have been in trouble I could have easily gotten to him, so I told him it was fine. I asked him to wait at the exit for us since they would probably get through before us. Excited, they all darted into the maze while my wife and I casually strolled.

After about 30 minutes, my wife and I made it to the end. We looked around for the kids thinking they would have been done before us, but they weren't at the exit. A few other people from our group came out right behind us. They said they had just saw all the kids and they were still trying to find a way out, but wouldn't come with the adults talking to us. My wife and I kind of laughed and just waited on them to come out. When they did, we were a bit surprised.

Shortly after talking to the other adults, Isaiah and his friends found their way out. Isaiah took one step outside the maze, saw us, and ran as hard as he could to us. He gripped my wife hugging her as tightly as he could and burred his face in her stomach. I could hear him fighting back crying. One of the other kids said, "He got kinda scared when we couldn't get out of the maze and wanted to find his parents." We both hugged him and reassured him it was ok. Soon he calmed down and we went back to playing at the farm, but he didn't get too far from us the rest of the day.

Now, let me ask you a question: Do we look like this when we are separated from God? Not that we could ever truly get away from God being omnipresence, but we can choose to be "separated" from Him. When we choose sin over Jesus or ourselves and our desires over His. There are even times that God "pulls away" from us for a time. But do we miss Him? Are we so dependent on Jesus that if He isn't where we can get to Him that we get scared? Would we run to Jesus, cling to Him, and bury our face in His chest when we found Him?

David expresses such a relationship with God in Psalm 27:1, 9:

The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom should I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom should I be afraid? ... Do not hide Your face from me; do not turn Your servant away in anger. You have been my help; do not leave me or abandon me, God of my salvation.

In Christ,
jon walton
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I Deserved That...

2011-10-04T19:29:00.001-07:00

I was driving on the interstate through a city about a week ago. I had been out of town for a while and was looking forward to getting back to friends and family.

In my hurry to get back, I may have been driving slightly over the speed limit. As I was cruising in the fast lane, I see something out of the corner of my eye. I look to my right to see a Tennessee State Trooper waving at me. My heart sank and I felt sick to my stomach. I knew what was coming next. I was completely in the wrong and "I really wanted to get home" was not a good enough reason to be speeding. I prepared to get what I deserved.

The Trooper then smiled and waved his hand up and down with a flat palm signaling me to "slow down." I waved back to say "thanks" and quickly decreased my rate of acceleration.

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, this is what we get, mercy. We deserve to pay for r crimes, our sins, but Jesus gives us second chances. If Jesus forgives and gives mercy to us and we are trying to be like Him, shouldn't we give forgive and show mercy to each other?

Thanks for the mercy extended to me God and Tennessee State Trooper!

In Christ,
jon walton

Prayer...

2011-09-23T09:17:00.001-07:00

I usually like to use this space to send an encouraging word or thought provoking message. Something that would either brighten your day, or cause you to think about your relationship with Jesus Christ. But today I am doing something different. I'm asking you to pray.

Nicole, a girl in the youth group I am privileged to shepherd, has been sick for over 2 months now. She has been to doctors, specialists, chiropractors, and many others and no one can seem to pinpoint exactly what is going on. I have seen her suffer the entire time with severe headaches, joint pain, hot flashes, weakness, and extreme fatigue. This is incredibly difficult for me who thinks of her as a daughter, but for her actual parents, brother, and grandparents, this entire ordeal has been just draining.

So I am asking you please, pray and pass this on to get more people praying. I have seen how powerful prayer is first hand with my wife and son.

The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will restore him to health; (James 5:15a HCSB)

In Christ,
jon walton

You Stink...

2011-09-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was driving up my driveway to my house the other day and Rosemary, my indoor dog, ran to the truck as I was pulling in. When Rosemary is outside and my wife is coming home, she lets Rosemary ride with her to the house. So, in like manner I opened my truck door and said, "Come on, Rosey." Excitedly, she wagged her tail, squatted down, and leaped into my lap. I almost got sick. "Rosey! You stink!" I shouted as the distinct smell of a dead animal filled my nostrils. One of my outdoor dogs had killed a opossum and brought her trophy to the front yard. Apparently, Rosemary had came to it and decided to roll in it. And now, she was in my lap in a confined space, the cab of my truck.

This is how sin affects our lives. For Rosemary, it was fun to roll in that dead animal. Why? I really have no idea. For some reason, it must be enjoyable to her. It is the same reason why people continue in some sin. It is enjoyable for a time. However, just as Rosemary stunk to high heaven, sin leave a foul odor on us. The guilt and shame of it can linger with us for quite a while. When other people find out about it, it is repulsive to them. Just like a dog who has rolled in a dead animal, everyone can tell what we have been doing. As soon as I brought Rosemary in the house, my wife could tell what the dog had done.

Rosemary needed a bath. Quickly. So do we when we sin. We need to get the stench off of us. How? By asking for forgiveness from God and repenting(that means turning away from) of our sin. After I gave Rosemary a bath she was playful, smelled good, and got attention and love. The same it true for us. When we repent, God heals us. He removes the smell of sin and replaces it with a pleasing aroma. This is evident in our lives.

Therefore repent and turn back, that your sins may be wiped out so that seasons of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. - Acts 3:19

In Christ,
jon walton
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For Whom the Lord Loves...

2011-08-11T07:18:00.001-07:00

Isaiah(my son) & I were riding in my truck the other day to take care of some errands. While driving, my wife called. We began talking about a reward for Isaiah because he had broken a bad habit and had promised him that if he did we would get him something. When I hung up the phone, I told Isaiah what we had decided. Isaiah, in a sweet innocent voice, said, "Ok. I didn't hear what you told mom." I really didn't think anything about it, I just kept driving.

A moment later, Isaiah said, "Dad, I didn't really lie to you..." this wasn't the innocent voice he had just used. This was a timid, almost fearful voice. He continued, "...when I said I didn't hear what you said to mommy, I really did. But I didn't really lie to you."

First off, how many of us would even think this was important enough to bring up? He was in the clear. I wasn't asking him about it, or trying to get him to confess, he did this on his own. I think many of us would look at how unimportant this was and would just let it go. But something else was happening here. Isaiah was experiencing something. He was feeling the conviction of the Holy Spirit, something lots of people don't like to talk about.

I explained to Isaiah that he did lie, but what he was feeling was actually good. Why? Because of Proverbs 3:12:

"For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights."

It took a while, but Isaiah did finally understand. He knew that he had sinned and that actually broke his heart. He even cried when he realized that he did lie an it was a sin. But I didn't stop with just him understanding that he had sinned. I explained that because he felt this way, it was a confirmation that God loves him. Then I got to share 1 John 1:9:

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

I told Isaiah that I forgive him and helped him ask God for forgiveness.

So knowing all this now, has God been showing you correction in your life? What do you need to ask forgiveness for? Just something to think about.

In Christ,
jon walton

Don't You Know What I've Been Through?

2011-08-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of a situation that happened to a couple of friends of mine not long ago. I'll give you the quick recap. Also, it should be known that both friends openly say they are following Jesus Christ. We will call them Bob and Jane to keep it clear. No, those are not their real names, heh.

Jane cursed in a public setting.
Bo said that Jane shouldn't use language like that. Bob did this in the same public setting
Jane responded that if Bob had been through what Jane had, he would curse too. Jane said Bob shouldn't pass judgment on her and Bob was wrong for doing so.
Bob and Jane are no longer friends.

As I thought about this situation, I can see where both Bob and Jane where not handling the situation very well, however one thing really stood out to me. Since when does going through something difficult make it ok to not be Christlike if you are redeemed by Jesus? Are we still not ambassadors for Jesus if things are hard? Are the consequences different if we are going through a difficult season in our lives? Absolutely not! But this is a pretty common thought isn't it?

Now don't get me wrong, I am not passing judgment on Jane. I think we all make mistakes and we all defiantly NEED grace and forgiveness. However, a difficult situation does not justify or excuse ungodly behavior. Basic reality is that we are called to be different than those who are not following Christ. We are called to be above reproach, regardless of what we are going through. 1 John 2:1 puts describes this notion wonderfully:

"My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ the righteous One"

Just something to think about.

In Christ,
jon walton
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Home safely...

2011-07-09T09:13:00.001-07:00

We just pulled into the church parking lot safe and sound. Thanks so much for your prayers! We are going to shower and get some sleep, but feel free to ask us about the trip. We would love to share with you!

In Christ,
jon walton

Back In Atlanta...

2011-07-09T04:35:00.001-07:00

We have all made it safely back to Atlanta! While we are glad to be heading home, we all feel like we have left a part of us in Ecuador. The smiles we left behind, the impression they made on us, and the ministry of Casa de Fe will continue on long after we are at home and in our beds tonight. Thank you again for all your prayers. I'll write another short post when we get back to Newport, TN. until that time some travel mercy prayers would be greatly appreciated.

In Christ,
jon walton

Day 6, Our Last Day at Casa de Fe...

2011-07-07T13:56:00.001-07:00

Today is truly bitter-sweet. It is our last day here. Tomorrow morning we will be heading out to Quito, doing some shopping, then heading to the airport to begin our journey home.

It is a sad to think that in 1.5 hours from writing this, we won't get to see these kids again for a year. They have had such an impact on all of us.

It is really hard for me to put into words the feelings we are sharing as a team, but one thing was made clear last night during our debrief time: We don't want to leave, but if we must we will be coming back.

You remember that construction we did on Tuesday? Here are the results:

That is an entire celling for the first level / floor for the second level poured and ready to go. But there is still so much more to do.

We will work as hard as we can for what time we have left.

These guys are very special. (From left to right: Edison, Fredde, Hernan, Luis, Flavio, Jaime) These are the "Masters" of construction here that have been leading us. They are amazing. All followers of Jesus Christ, all a joy to work with, and I can't wait to see them again next year.

In case you haven't gotten the message yet, we will be coming back. I will start planning for next year when I get back to the states. You should come. This is why...

Need I say more?

In Christ,
jon walton

P.S. I won't have a chance to write again until I get back to Atlanta.

Days 4 & 5 at Casa de Fe...

2011-07-06T09:15:00.001-07:00

First off Diane & Brian are both doing better and back to serving! Praise God!

Second, sorry I didn't get to write yesterday, here is why:

We were pouring concrete on the second floor of the school they are building and it was all hands on deck!

We worked from 7:00 am till 9:00 pm. Everyone was pretty beat, including me, so I just decided to wait and write this morning.

Now, I've done construction before, but this was a whole new ballgame. We had to lift the crane by hand up to the second floor which was really a challenge, but it is amazing what the human body can do. After that we were all given a job and told we would be doing that all day. At first it seemed odd that we had that many people, but once we got started it really went like a well oiled machine!

We all worked all day an we were all exhausted at the end of the day, but we got done!

Today, some people will go back up to the work site and start taking down the boards and poles while the rest of us will work in the orphanage. Thanks so much for your continued prayers!

In Christ,
jon walton

Day 3 At Casa de Fe...

2011-07-04T20:34:00.001-07:00

I'd like to ask a couple of prayer requests to start off. We got word last night that Kristy Timmons's grandfather passed away Friday night. She is doing ok, but prayers for her and her family. Also, Brian Dorsey needed to go see a doctor today. Nothing too serious, he had an ear ache and we just wanted to take every precaution.

This place is amazing. We spent the afternoon yesterday just being with the kids here at Casa de Fe. Some of us took them to a local playground here in Shell, while the rest of us stayed behind and watched another group ride bikes. It was great to just be with them.

I was talking to a volunteer today who told me how much happier these kids are now that they have room to not be on top of each other. It's a reminder that the construction we are doing is helping so much.

Today we started working with the master construction workers on a school they are building on the grounds of the orphanage.

Those of us who didn't go to the construction site stayed to help the Tias (the ladies who work at the orphanage) work in the orphanage. These kids are so sweet.

God is working strongly in us. We will do all we can to help while we are here, but we will also do all we can once we get home.

We will keep working and hanging out for the next few days till we come back. Thanks again for your continued prayers!

In Christ,
Jon Walton

Location:Ecuador

Day 2 At Casa de Fe

2011-07-03T10:07:00.001-07:00

I have an Internet connection once a day, so I will be writing then and will try to fill in the rest of the previous day as well as what we are planning to do for the current day.

Yesterday we meet back up with Dan & Brian to help unload 2 trucks full of supplies from a closing guesthouse. It was pretty eye opening. Things we would throw away because they were too old or worn out, these people see as having great value. Desks, doors, the hinges, door knobs, power outlets, wires, and so much more. It was really incredible.

After that, we practiced for the skit and songs we are doing for the worship service we are leading with children at Casa de Fe. It was planned to be a mini VBS type service.

This morning we got up and lead the children in a service. They really response well!

We are having a lot of fun, but we can all tell even at this early stage it will be very hard to leave. These children are so wonderful. Thanks so much for your prayers.

This afternoon we will spend the rest of the day hanging out with the kids. Tomorrow the men will start working on one of the new buildings for the orphanage.

On a side note, Diane Watkins is feeling under the weather and taking a day of rest today. Nothing too serious, just not feeling well. I'm sure she would appreciate an extra prayer.

In Christ,
jon walton

First Day At Casa de Fe...

2011-07-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

We are getting to spend a lot of time at Casa de Fe today. We just spent an hour with the babies. It was very hard to put these wonderful kids down, but I understand that they are on a schedule and the last thing we want to do is make it harder on the workers. Since we are getting here on a weekend, we get to do all the fun stuff first, then work and help teach classes starting on Monday. I'll be uploading pics as I can to my Facebook account (click here). I'll still do a few pics here, but many more will be there. Thanks so much for your continued prayers!

2011-07-01T20:35:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Shell! We have made it safely to Shell and got settled in to the HCJB guesthouse. Then we got to stop by Casa de Fe and see the kids for a short time.While it was great, it was very moving to see these beautiful creations of God who had been at one time or another abandoned. There were more than a few tears shed for these kids.

Dan Williams and Brian Dorsey stayed an extra night in Quito to help move some stuff to Casa de Fe. They will meet back up with us tomorrow.

Everyone is doing great and in good health. Tomorrow we will get to spend most of the day with the children. Thanks for your continued prayers!

In Christ,
jon walton

2011-07-01T06:51:00.001-07:00

Waking up in Quito.

We all woke up this morning looking much more rested than we all looked last night. We will be getting on a bus for Shell. No one is sick (praise God!) and all of us are excited. I'll try to post again tonight before we go to bed!

In Christ,
jon walton

We Are All Safely In Ecuador!

2011-06-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

We have all made it safely to Ecuador! The flight was good. I am amazed already by our team. There was almost no complaining the entire day. Even though we traveled all day in cars, trains, and planes, everyone is in great moods and looking forward to a good nights sleep! We were greeted warmly here at the OMS Guest house with snacks, sodas, and beds! Thanks again for all your prayers!

As of now, our plan for tomorrow is to get up and have breakfast at 7:30 am, then head to Shell, stopping at a mall on the way to get some supplies for our week there. Brian Dorsey and Dan Williams volunteered to stay behind in the morning and help move some stuff from one of the missionary guest homes here in Quito to Casa de Fe in Shell. They will meet back up with us tomorrow afternoon.

I'll make another post tomorrow God willing.

In Christ,
jon walton

2011-06-30T13:48:00.001-07:00

We are checked into the airport and waiting to board our plane. We are excited, nervous, and really looking forward to what God has in store for us all! We meet up with Cheralyne, a young lady from Canada, who is going to work at Casa De Fe the same week as us. Thanks for your prayers!

2011-06-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

We have made it safely to Atlanta. We will be checking into the airport soon and I will have at least one more update before we fly out. Everyone is very excited to get on the plane! Ecuador here we come!

2011-06-30T06:27:00.001-07:00

Here we go! We just left Northport Baptist Church at 9:25 am. I'll give as many updates as I can till we get on the plane! Thanks for your prayers!

2011-06-29T05:14:00.001-07:00

1 day.

That's all that's left before 14 people get on an airplane and fly to Ecuador to help orphans and the workers of an orphanage as much as we can. It's hard to comprehend that the time is actually at hand. Please pray for us as we go. Here are the names of the people who make up this missionary team:

Dr. Steve Manock
Abby Manock
Diane Watkins
Kristy Timmons
Dan Williams
Brian Dorsey
Lukas Williams
Dawn Sams
Chris Hogan
Wendy Hogan
Andy Hogan
Missy Walton
Isaiah Walton
Jon Walton

14 people who on their own are nothing special, but when we allow ourselves to be used by God we are able to reach out to the least of these.

Thank you all so much for your support financially and through prayers. We could not have done it without all you gave. Check back here for updates all week long.

In Christ,
jon walton

The Ministry of a 6 Year Old...(Video)

2011-06-14T12:06:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! Here is my second video blog, enjoy!

Your Feelings Lie...

2011-05-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

I have been talking to several youth lately who are dealing with lots of "feelings." Some of them are battling with heartbreak over a relationship that didn't work out, some are dealing with pain from long ago, some are smitten with love, some are furious with rage, and some are just trying to figure out what they are feeling. One thing they have all had in common is this phrase, "I feel _____, but I don't know why."

This happens to almost all of us. I have a friend who asked for prayer for one of these moments of "feelings." There was a lot of wisdom in his words. Here's how our conversation went:

Him: "Hey man, could you pray for me? I feel really depressed."
Me: "Sure, everything ok?"
Him: "Yeah, this happens sometimes. I feel really down, but I know that if I just press through it in a few days it will be better. Just stinks while I'm going through it."

I think this stems from the fact that we are all "broken." Since Adam and Eve first sinned against God, we as a people have been messed up. Our "feelings" are messed up along with that. In fact, they flat out lie to us sometimes. We can be having a great day and suddenly we feel sad or discouraged. There could be no reason for it. God knows this about us and warned against it in Jeremiah 17:9-10:

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

Now, I know this may sound harsh or simple, but it really is one of the best solutions to "feeling bad" for no reason. Keep going. Keep doing what is right. Keep going. Pray to God for strength, ask friends to help, but just keep going. Your feelings can lie. They can tell you everything is falling apart when it isn't. Keep going. It will get better. And if you are trusting in Jesus, it will all be ok.

In Christ,
jon walton
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Selfless...

2011-05-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been around someone who is extremely selfish? You know the kind of person I mean. The kind of person who only cares about their own wants, needs, desires, problems, and life. The kind of person who always puts themself before others. When you come in contact with a person like that what is your response? Do you just want to get away from them? Do you want to set them straight? Do you feel sorry for them?

What about you, are you selfish or selfless? We all have selfish tendencies that we fight against I think, but what wins over in your life most of the time? Look at these statements and see which you lean more toward:
If being selfish means you think you are better than others, then being selfless means you consider others before yourself.
If being selfish means you think your problems are more important than others problems, then being selfless means you attend to others problems before your own. (within reason)
If being selfish means you think what you want is more important than what others want, or even need, then being selfless means you consider how your actions will affect others.
If being selfish means you put yourself first, then being selfless means you put yourself last.

Jesus Christ gave us the perfect example of being selfless and Paul later emphisied it in his letter to the Philippians.

Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not [only] for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross. - Philippians 2:1-8

Being selfless is difficult, but not impossible. It is possible through the direction and guidance of Jesus Christ and by drawing on Him for the strength to do it.

In Christ,
jon walton

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That Meant So Much...

2011-04-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

My wife is awesome. For the past two weeks, I have been extremely busy. I have not had anytime to help out with the house work. Missy has been working on her master's degree as well as working full time, so I have been doing all I can to help out. But, as I said, I have just been too busy to help out for a bit. I came home late the other night expecting to do laundry. I knew I had my last clean pair of jeans on and was expecting to have a late night. I came in and heard the dryer running. Missy was already in bed, but had started the laundry so I didn't have to stay up. It was such a relief. I could wait till they are done, hang them up and get some sleep. It meant so much to me. She was busy, but still took the time to help me out. It wasn't a big grand gesture of love, its not like she had to think about what would help me, she just saw something that needed done and did it. Its not always the big stuff that sticks or means the most. It really doesn't take much to fulfill John 15:17, "This is what I command you: love one another."
Show someone you love them today. It doesn't have to be big or extravagant.

In Christ,
jon walton
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Being There...

2011-04-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

Everything we do is a learning experience to some degree. Since I have accepted the call to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and became a pastor I have learned a lot of things. I have learned that some people will always be encouraging. I have learned that some people will always be critical. I have learned that some people really need to be loved. I have learned that some people really appreciate it when kindness is handed their way and some people will never notice. I have learned almost all this through personal experience in the past few years. I have also learned that some things I was scared of are really simple.

One of the things I really had no idea how to do was "visits." If someone is in the hospital, or sick, or feeling depressed, or had just lost a loved one or friend, I have known several pastors in the past who had gone to visit them. Now, I have a pretty outgoing personality. I can make friends easily and I can get along with pretty much anyone, but for some reason the thought of going and sitting with someone in those situations just scared me. What if I say something stupid? What if I go when they don't want me there? What if I do something that irritates them? I just had no idea what I was suppose to do. However, through experience, God has given me exactly what to do.

Be there.

I have learned that just the presence of someone who cares means so much more than what is said, done, or even thought. And while this thought may not have occurred to you before (like it didn't for me) the same is probably true for you. Think of a time when you were going through something difficult. Something you didn't think you could handle. If you had someone who didn't really have any advice or the solution, (like a spouse, child, friend, fellow church member) it still help that they were just there. Just to know that they cared and were there if you needed them.

In the book of Job, chapter 2:11-13, some of Job's friends had heard that he was suffering.

Now when Job's three friends—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite—heard about all this adversity that had happened to him, each of them came from his home. They met together to go and offer sympathy and comfort to him. When they looked from a distance, they could [barely] recognize him. They wept aloud, and each man tore his robe and threw dust into the air and on his head. Then they sat on the ground with him seven days and nights, but no one spoke a word to him because they saw that his suffering was very intense.

Did you catch that last sentence? No acts of healing. No over showing of affection. No words of wisdom. They were just being there for their friend. Oh, and they weren't pastors either! Do you know someone whose suffering is intense right now? They could probably use a friend to be there for them.

In Christ,
jon walton

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Busy...

2011-03-29T13:23:00.000-07:00

Well, as soon as the weather warms up, seems like so does our schedules. Sports, yard work, events, and so many other things start up in Spring. There are just tons of things going on! I don't know about you, but for the past few weeks I have barely sat down. With all these things going on, its easy to see where some problems would come in.
Just this past weekend, I actually triple booked. I had a youth event in Newport, my son had a Karate tournament in KY, and I had completely forgotten about our college group in Bybee. Yeah, it was a busy weekend!
When we get this busy, unfortunately many times we sacrifice the wrong things to make more time available. We give up time with family, time to rest, and most importantly time with God. We go and go and go and if we aren't careful to stop and listen, we could miss something great God has for us. How often we forget that we have access to the creator of the universe, who is all knowing and will guide us if we would only slow down, spend time with Him, and ask.

Think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. - Proverbs 3:6

Remember to take the time to spend time with Jesus.

In Christ,
jon walton

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An Awesome Family...

2011-03-09T13:05:00.000-08:00

God has blessed me with a wonderful family. My wife has always been there for me when I have needed her. She is caring and compassionate and her passion for serving God is inspiring to me. My son is so much fun. He can almost always make me laugh, he has a wonderful personality, is obedient (most of the time), and is a blessing to my life as well as my wife's. God has given me a great family.

There is another family I am blessed with that is truly awesome. God's family. The group of believers I serve with at Crossroads are truly remarkable. They call when they know I am in distress. They pray for me at all times. They are there when I want to have fun. They love me and my family. They are truly awesome. I am so glad they take the word of God seriously:

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing. - 1 Thes. 5:11

Thank you family of God. May He bless you more than you deserve. And I hope I can be a fraction of the blessing you have been to me.

In Christ,
jon walton

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Go-To Guy...

2011-02-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

As I watch my son grow, see the decisions he makes, and watch him face difficulties of various kinds, I notice that he has a go-to guy. Me. When he is happy and excited, he comes to me and wants to share it with me. When he is hurt, be it physical or emotional, he comes to me for comfort. When he is stressed or frustrated about something, he comes and asks me to fix it or help him. When he wants something, he asks me to get it for him. He turns to me for almost everything. Why? Because he has learned that I care for him. He has learned that if I can and it is permissible, I will do anything for him. Sometimes he gets mad at me, but he soon realizes that he wants me in his life and that I provide for him. He has learned that I love him and want the best for him.

It got me thinking, "Who is my go-to person?" Is it a friend? My wife? My dad? No, I have learned that Jesus is my go-to person. He has been there for me when all others have turned away. When I thought I was on my own, He has been there. When I have been mad at almost everyone, He has been there. When I have needed guidance, He has been there. When I have faced trials, troubles, temptations, difficulties, heartache, and sorrow, He has been there. Jesus is faithful to me. He cares for me. He has taught me, even through discipline, that He loves me.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, because He cares about you. - 1 Peter 5:6,7

Thank you Jesus, for caring about me. Thanks for being my go-to guy.

In Christ,
jon walton

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Ministered To...

2011-02-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, and for about a week now, our whole family has been sick. Sunday though, it hit us all pretty hard. Missy stayed in bed all day, Isaiah just laid on the couch and watched movies, and I went to church long enough to help set up and get though Kidstuf with what was planned. Right after that, I went home and crashed. We were all feeling pretty bad. Then God did something amazing. One of my youth texted me and said, "Hey, we are bringing you supper at 5:00." I was moved. I texted back, "You don't have to do that." The reply was "Too late, already got it started. See you then!"

I always think its kinda funny when I hear people say, "That's the pastor's job." Or, "That's not something I am gifted in." You may not be called to preach, but can you cook? You may not be able to cook, but could you send a card? Can you make a phone call? Send a text? You may not be able to get off work to sit with someone in a hospital, but could you pray for them? We are all called to minister to each other.

That warm meal and knowing that someone cared enough to fix it with out me asking meant a lot to our family. Thanks so much. You know who you are. I won't say who it was, but I have no doubt that God will bless them. Even ministers need to be ministered to. We can all minister to each other. Its just using what God has blessed you with to bless others. How can you help?

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Who Will Love Me For Me?

2011-02-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

I think the song speaks for itself without me adding anything.

You're Welcome Here...

2011-01-20T09:26:00.000-08:00

I recently had two very different experiences with two people regarding Crossroads. In fact, it was two instances that were really polar opposites. Looking back on the two, I see God working in both situations and in me.

Experience 1: I was getting a haircut recently and the young woman had a tattoo on her hand. One thing I have learned about people with tattoos is that they love to talk about their tattoos, so I began a conversation about them. She said the one on hand was one of many. I told her how I never could get one, but she explained how much she loved them. She told me how she also wanted to one day go to Hollywood and cut hair of famous people. I told her that I was a youth pastor and that is what one of my youth wanted to do as well. (I always look for an opportunity to steer the conversation toward God. Thanks Franklin Graham.) She said she always wanted to go back to church, but she never felt welcome with all her tattoos, piercings, and dyed hair. I smiled and said, "You're welcome at Crossroads. We don't care about that stuff."

Experience 2: Someone visited our church one Sunday because theirs was closed. About a week later this person saw me and for some reason felt the need to criticize Crossroads and the way we held services. He said it wasn't "church," that our women dressed like men, and the preaching was bad because we didn't mention Hell once. He was doing this loudly in a public place. Now, I would like to say that I handled this situation with all grace and understanding. Being patient with him and calmly disagreeing with him. That is what I would like to say. Truth is, I got mad. Really mad. I asked him to go outside and in a rather stern voice told him, "I love you, but don't bad mouth my church." We argued a bit and I ended the conversation with, "If you don't agree with how we serve Jesus, that's fine, but you don't need to bad mouth us to me."

As I sat and thought about the second experience, I realized that people like him are the reason the girl with tattoos won't go back to church. Because too many people see what they don't like as sin instead of seeing sin as something they don't like. Be wary of comments like "That's just always the way we have done it." and "That's the way I was raised." We can not allow our feelings or what we think is right to over ride what the Word of God says.

Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ. - Colossians 2:8

"God, may I turn to you for wisdom. Jesus, may I turn to you for forgiveness. Holy Spirit, my I turn to you for direction. And may others called by Your Name do the same. Amen."

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Strange Peace...

2011-01-05T11:44:00.000-08:00

With all that is going on with our church right now, it is just odd that so many people have peace. if you don't know, the theater where Crossroads Community Church meets closed its doors on December 31st, 2010. What did that mean for us? Well, we were originally told on a Friday that we had the following Sunday and that was it. Now, for pretty much everyone that should induce panic mode. That should be the cue to freak out and scramble to find somewhere else for a growing congregation to meet. But something amazing happened. The leadership of the church didn't. In fact I don't think anyone in the church did. Did we talk about it? Sure. But instead of going into panic or freak out mode, we prayed. We all talked about the fact that we really were not worried, but we had peace about the situation. You see, I believe(as do all the leadership and most of the members of Crossroads) we serve a God that is bigger than where we meet. He meant it when He promised "I will never leave you nor forsake you." God meant it when He said, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you, not destroy you." My God is just that awesome.

So what happened? Well, the theater is closing, but God provided a way for us to stay for a bit longer anyway. The board of investors of the theater meet and agreed that we should stay until the theater sells. I don't know what God will do next, but I do know that He is showing just how faithful He is. God is going to give us something better than what we have had. He is still working miracles in the midst of all this.

How do I know Jesus is still working miracles? Because in the midst of all this, my 6 year old son, Isaiah, told me last night, "Dad, I want to ask Jesus into my heart." And he did. At a time when its seems like things could go very wrong, God makes things go very, very right. Thanks God. You are always my Lord. Thanks Jesus, for saving me, my wife, and my son. You are awesome God. And I love You.

In Christ,
jon walton

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A Hug...

2010-12-20T11:57:00.001-08:00

I have recently been talking to a lot of hurting people. Some people in financial need, some people going through difficult circumstances, some people who have been hurt physically, some people who have bee hurt emotionally, and some people who have made unwise choices and now reaping the consequences. Part of who Christ has made is is to truly care about those I come in contact with. When each person has told me all the pain they are facing, my heart has truly broke for them. They are trying to make sense of what has happened to them and looking for hope.

In almost every case, when they are truly hurting, I have noticed something. A hug can turn a hopeless situation into the beginnings of the solution. There is something about a hug from a friend or loved one that helps. It is comforting. It is peaceful. It is a feeling of being safe. When you are being hugged, you feel protected from the outside world. It lets others know you care about what is going on with them. It helps them see there is hope.

I am not perfect, but I am trying daily to be more like Christ. So just as He brings me comfort when I need it, I will strive to bring others comfort when they need it.

He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
-2 Corinthians 1:4

May you be hugged when needed, and may you hug when needed.

In Christ,
jon walton

A Handshake...

2010-12-14T10:12:00.000-08:00

One night not long ago, my son wanted some crackers for a bedtime snack. The crackers he wanted was for a baby shower that my wife was going to the next day, so we told him he couldn't have them. Disappointed, he hung his head and just sat at the table. I felt sorry for him and said, "Tell you what buddy, if there are any left, mommy will bring them home and you can have them tomorrow night for a snack." He immediately perked up, ran over to me and stuck his hand out for me to shake. A bit perplexed and amused I asked "What's this?" Through a laughing breath my son replied, "We made a deal. We need to shake on it." I did and that was enough. He trusted that what was spoken would happen just from that simple gesture.

I remember when there was a certain amount of trust among almost everyone in that way. A handshake was all you needed to know that what ever was said would happen. It didn't matter if you knew the person or not. If you shook on it, it was going to happen. People had a general trust granted to each other. But something happened to me the other day that made me realize just how far our society has gotten away from that level of trust between people.

As I was leaving Wal-Mart, an elderly lady was checking out in front of me. I had only a few items, and she had several. It was cold, snowing, and the wind was brutal. I simply asked her as she was paying for her items, "Ma'm, can I help you load your groceries in your car?" Now, I said this in as caring of a voice as I could, but the look on her face would have said otherwise. She looked at me as if I had just threatened to take her money, steal her car, and leave her for dead. The young man at the cash register didn't help matters either. Bewildered he looked at me like I had just screamed profanity at the Pope. She assured me quite fervently, "NO! I can do it just fine. In fact, my husband is waiting for me!" I smiled and said, "Ok, God Bless." The cashier just gave me a mean stare as he rang up my items and I paid. As I went out, I watched this elderly lady walk to the end of the parking lot and load her groceries by herself.

Have we really gotten that un-trusting of other people? That we can't even offer help that people don't think you are taking advantage of them?

I don't know about you, but I am going to keep offering help. I may get strange looks, people may continue to turn me down. But no matter what, I will be as much like Christ as I can. I will always offer help.

In Christ,
jon walton

The Long Walk...

2010-11-20T14:09:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why, but Isaiah (my son) has recently be showing a lot of disobedient behavior. I'm not sure if it is a "phase" or if he is beginning to test the limits we have placed on him. Now, don't get me wrong, he is great most of the time, but there are a few things that we just will NOT allow to slide.

For example, last week he told me that he wanted to take a blanket and stuffed animal to school with him for nap time. I thought to myself, "A blanket maybe, but a stuffed animal?" So I asked him "Isaiah, did your teacher tell you that you could bring a stuffed animal, or do you just want to?" He insisted that she had said they could, so I told him plainly: "We'll take it, but I will go with you and ask your teacher. If she says she didn't say you could bring it and you have lied to me, you will be in trouble. Are you sure she said you could bring a stuffed animal?" He still persisted that it was ok.

As we entered his classroom, I asked again if he was sure. The reason I was being so cautious is because lying was something he had started doing. This was behavior that is not tolerated. It is always punished. He still persisted that it was allowed. I asked the teacher if it was allowed and sure enough she informed me that a stuffed animal was not allowed. I looked down at my son and he looked back up with a half scared, half mad face. I excused us from his teacher and told him to follow me. He did, although it was slowly. We walked down the hall a few feet to the bathroom. I walked to the last stall and turned around to see Isaiah very slowly walking toward me. He had already started crying, his bottom lip protruding out from his upper lip.

As I watched him walk to me, I remembered that I had walked that walk with my dad as well. When I knew I had done wrong and knew discipline was coming. I have also walked that walk with God. Times that I was knowingly disobedient and did what I wanted to do instead of what God has commanded. Its a long walk to that last stall in the bathroom. It reminded me of this verse:

for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, just as a father, the son he delights in. - Proverbs 3:12

I'm reminded of why my dad disciplined me, of why I discipline my son, and why God is still disciplining me when necessary. Because my dad loves me, I love my son, and God loves me.

May God discipline you when you need it. May you have to take that long walk. And may you learn not to have to take it again.

In Christ,
jon walton

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Excited...

2010-10-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

We have a dog given to us from a great friend. The dog, Sister Rosemary, is a female Malta-poo. (Half Maltese, half Poodle.) She has turned out to be a great family pet. She is very loving, she doesn't mess in the house even when left for long periods of time, and she loves to play which is great for our son.
Rosy gets super excited when we come home. She is barking, wagging her tail, and there isn't a chance she will stop shaking for a good 10 minutes. As soon as we enter she is running, jumping, and doing everything she can to show us just how happy she is that we have come home.
At first this little display was a bit annoying, however after considering why she is doing what she is doing, it really is an honor. She is showing how happy she is to see us. Why? Because she loves us. She is looking forward to playing, getting petted, getting feed, in short: having all her needs met, both physical and emotional.
It made me think this morning, "If I believe Jesus can meet all my needs, both physical and emotional, am I as excited to meet with Jesus as Rosy is to meet with me?"

What about you? Are you excited to meet with Jesus? Excited enough to run around?

In Christ,
jon walton

Taking Care of Those Who Don't Deserve It...

2010-10-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

I just had to take my dog, Daisy (a Jack Russell Terrier), to the vet the other day. She had gotten bit by something and the wound just wasn't healing properly. In fact, it was getting worse. The vet said she would need to have the wound washed out daily, medicine applied daily, and she would need to be on antibiotics for about 2 weeks. Total cost of the visit and medicine: $116. I looked at Daisy and said, "That's more than I paid for you 10 years ago, dog." Daisy just looked up at me, wagged her tail as if to smile and say, "But I'm worth it!"

I love my dog. She has been my faithful companion since June of 2000. She has always been great with kids, she catches most of the mice around our house, and she always greets us as we come home. She really is a great dog. But she is the one that went out and got in a fight with whatever she did and got the wound. It was her fault.

That's the mindset of a lot of people when they see someone who needs help. "They probably did that to them selves. They drank too much. They committed the crime. They wouldn't work." So does that excuse us from helping them? It doesn't if we are followers of Jesus Christ.

Then the King will say to those at His right hand, Come, you blessed of My Father [you favored of God and appointed to eternal salvation], inherit (receive as your own) the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.

For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you brought Me together with yourselves and welcomed and entertained and lodged Me,

I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you visited Me with help and ministering care, I was in prison and you came to see Me.

Then the just and upright will answer Him, Lord, when did we see You hungry and gave You food, or thirsty and gave You something to drink?

And when did we see You a stranger and welcomed and entertained You, or naked and clothed You?

And when did we see You sick or in prison and came to visit You?

And the King will reply to them, Truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least [in the estimation of men] of these My brethren, you did it for Me.

Matt. 25:34-40

This Sunday at Crossroads, we are doing just that. We are putting our Faith into Action. We are closing our church service and serving the community. Even those who don't "deserve" it. God loves us, so we will love them.

In Christ,
jon walton

The First "Breaking Point" Meeting...

2010-09-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night we had our first youth group as "Breaking Point" student ministries. Can I tell you that the youth group is amazing? We took a serious look at who in their communities are hurting and how to reach out to them. They came up with some great ideas like giving a small gift to pregnant teens and offering help to them, making an effort to reach out to the people who are made fun of and try to be their friends, and pray constantly for the drug problem. They had the idea to make cards to hand out to classmates and friends to make it easier for them to invite people to youth group. One of the best things that happened that night though was this: We had a few new visitors and the youth really did all they could to welcome them in. They were shy and quite, but almost everyone there said hi and talked with them. It was really cool.

Thanks God, for what you are starting. Let us not get lazy on You. Let us show you honor by how we treat others.

In Christ,

jon walton

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Its Easy to Make Fun...

2010-09-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

I get a lot of videos sent to me from friends. Most of them are pretty funny. I got this one sent to me as a joke.

Now, when I watched this I had mixed emotions. I did find it funny, but also a little offensive. Partly because I meet in a contemporary church, but I think more so because they are attacking the integrity of any church. I've seen it the other way around, too. People making fun of organs, pews, or the traditional style. It just bugs me to see that from either side. It did get me thinking though.

Its easy to make fun of something you don't like. You can find all kinds of things you see as silly and blow them out of proportion. You can find lots of things that are different from the way you think it should be. You can easily overlook any good whatever you're looking at is doing. Its easy to make fun of something you don't like or someone who doesn't like you.

Its not easy to do this:

"But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."

Luke 6:27-28

I have a question: What would it look like if we put aside our petty "I like that" and "I don't like that" mentality and focused on doing what we should as individuals living for Jesus Christ?

In Christ,

jon walton

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How Good Do You Have To Be?

2010-08-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

Its a long one this week, so grab some coffee before you start.

I did something the other day I am normally very careful about. On my way to town, I saw a man hitchhiking on the side of the road. I said a quick prayer, “God, should I stop?” This time, I felt very strongly that I should.

As he got in, I took the time to notice him. Ok, I was watching for a gun or knife or something. I knew God had lead me to give him a ride and that God would take care of me for obeying, but that doesn’t mean this guy doesn’t have free will and that I should just throw caution out the window. He was in his 60’s. He had a long, blond beard that ended in the middle of his chest. He had long hair that was near the same length of his beard, but he was bald on the top. “Hi my name’s Jake” he said as he got in. (That’s not his real name, I’m just using it to be safe.) “I’m Jon.” I said with a smile.

Jake proceeded to tell me lots of things about his life. How he couldn’t wait to get out of Tennessee, how his parents had died and left everything to his younger brother, how he couldn’t drive because he owe 3 different states money and they wouldn’t let him get a driver’s license, how his sister had cheated him out of $40,000, and many other tales. Jake liked to talk apparently. So, I listened. But what Jake said next really broke my heart. “I’ll tell you this,” Jake said with a cold, harsh look in his eyes, “I’ll be at the pearly gates of heaven to point my sister to Hell!” I was shocked. How do you respond to that? What do you say?

I asked Jake, “Why would you do that? I know she didn’t do you right, but you would see her spend eternity in Hell?” “I was raised (Mystery Religion here, heh) and I believe that God put us on Earth to see if we could be good enough to get back to Heaven with Him.” I sat there a moment, praying “God, what do I say?” I asked the only question I could think of, “How good do you have to be?” A bit bewildered, as if he had never been asked that question before, he looked at me and asked, “What?” I repeated the question, making an extra effort to be polite. “Well, I don’t know. No one knows.” Jake replied.

“What a hopeless way to live.” I thought to myself. Here was a gentleman who had seen lots of trouble. Sure, he may have made some decisions that lead him to the place in life he was, but right now he was living day in and day out with no hope. Everything he had in the past, almost everyone he knew, and almost everything about his life was either letting him down or hurting him. He was truly hopeless. “God, what do I say?” I asked again.

“Well, I know.” I responded. “I don’t think anyone can be ‘good enough.’ I believe the Bible and it says in Romans 3:23 that ‘ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God.’ So there is no way that we can be good enough to redeem ourselves to a perfect God. I believe God saw that and sent His son, Jesus, to pay the debt that I never could. Jesus gave his life so that you, or me, or anyone who accepted Him as their Savior could be sure they have hope for this life and the next.”

Jake rolled his eyes, and said, “Yeah, I’ve heard that before. I don’t buy it.”
I don’t understand that train of thought. Jake would rather live with no hope, with what he was taught, than to look in the Bible and find the truth or listen to a possibility that there may be hope here for him. Its also a big reason I hate, I know that is a strong word and I mean it, I hate false doctrine about my God. It confuses and hinders people from knowing the true nature of God.

As Jake got out, he shook my hand and said, “God bless.” I smiled back and said, “I’ll pray for you, Jake.” For a bit, I felt like I had failed. Like I didn’t get through to Jake. But that’s not my job. I shared the Truth with him. I planted the seed. Now my prayer for Jake is this: “God, water that seed. Holy Spirit, nourish that seed. Jesus, grow that seed. Remove the scales from Jake’s eyes, Jesus, let him see You for who You really are.”

In Christ,
jon walton

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Cheering At Practice...

2010-08-12T11:31:00.001-07:00

Tuesday night was my son's first football practice. It was hot, the gear was too big for him, and his regular coach wasn't there, but I was excited about him playing. He, on the other hand, has his doubts. He is not use to the helmet or other gear, he's hot, and out of his comfort zone. He takes the field and begins stretching. I had told him previously, "Whatever the coach tells you to do on the field, you say 'Yes sir!' and do it." He does pretty great at listening to the coach and obeying. When they were running, I was yelling, "Go Isaiah! Go! Run harder!" When they were learning to tackle I was there on the side yelling "Grab him Isaiah! Pull him down!" That was about the time I noticed just about every other parent, including my wife, looking at me like I was an idiot. That's when it hit me. This was practice. Why am I cheering?

I was considering this thought as Isaiah came over for a water break. He got a drink and looked up at me and said, "I hate this, dad." Ug. My heart sank. I was so wanting him to really be into it. I think he will love it if he just sticks with it. After all, this was just practice. That's why I was cheering. I knew he was a little uncomfortable. I knew he was a little scared. I knew he may not like it at first. But I also believe if he sticks it out, he will love it.

Sound familiar? Sometimes God asks us to do something and we say "God, I don't want to do that! Its not fun, its boring, its out of my comfort zone." What if God knows (and He does by the way) that He is giving you this task because you will love the outcome?

...your Father knows the things you need before you ask Him.

-Matt. 6:8

Stay with the difficult task. You may hear God cheering you on. Even when you are practicing for the task.

In Christ,

jon walton

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Keeping Out of Trouble...

2010-08-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever looked as someone and thought, "He(or she, but henceforth refereed to as "he") really has it all together. He makes wise decisions, he seems to always be on the up and up, and he is just a great person to be around. I wish I were more like him." I know from time to time I feel that way. I do my best to serve God with all that I am, but I mess up a lot. Sometimes I make selfish decisions that don't benefit God or others. Sometimes I speak out of turn and really offend someone. Sometimes I am just lazy and don't do what I should. There are days that I look at myself and wonder, "What in the world am I doing?" Ever have a day like that? (Or a week? Month? Year?)

I was reading through scripture today, and this passage really stuck out to me.

How can a young man keep his way pure?
By keeping Your word.

I have sought You with all my heart;
don't let me wander from Your commands.

I have treasured Your word in my heart
so that I may not sin against You.

LORD, may You be praised;
teach me Your statutes.

With my lips I proclaim
all the judgments from Your mouth.

I rejoice in the way [revealed by] Your decrees
as much as in all riches.

I will meditate on Your precepts
and think about Your ways.

I will delight in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.

-Psalm 119:9-16

Wanna keep out of trouble? Wanna make wise decisions? Wanna be happy?(See Psalm 119:1-8) Spend time with God. Next time you see that person who seems to have it all together, ask them about their relationship with Jesus. You may just find that their secrete to all that wisdom isn't from them, its from God.

"God, help me keep my way pure. Help me find time to spend with You. Help me understand Your Word. Help me keep Your commands. Because I love you Jesus. I want to keep in your light. May my life point others to You. Amen"

In Christ,

jon walton

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What Do I Do In My Free Time?

2010-07-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Well, the results are in. I'm not sure I like them. Now, something I want to be clear about: I'm not changing my numbers to make me look "good." I know a higher authority than man that I will report to for my actions. That includes this blog. A few things to explain on how I calculated my numbers: I only counted FREE time. I did not count my time at work, eating or sleeping(I allowed myself 7 hours of time for sleep each night. Any extra time sleeping I did factor in as Personal Time because I was choosing to sleep as a free time activity.) These numbers are all approximate. I didn't need every single second to get a feel for how I am spending my time. Also, this study is from Monday-Thursday, so its only a part of a week, but it was still good.

God Time = Time I spend reading my Bible, praying, or volunteering for God.

Family Time = Time I spent with my family instead of doing my own thing.

Personal Time = Time I spent doing things for me. (Watching TV, Playing Xbox, etc.)

Here are the numbers for my last week:

I had 10 hours of free time. I'll put them in order from the most time spent to the least time spent.

Family Time = 5 Hours

Personal Time = 3 Hours

God Time = 2 Hours

Ouch. Now, I can make all kinds of excuses for this. Like I spend a lot of time in the Bible studying for Youth Lessons and church on Sunday, but that isn't the same as chosen time with God. Or that I had a particularly busy week, but this was a typical week for me. They are all busy. No, I wanted an honest assessment of my free time and that is what I got. Doesn't matter that it was only 10 hours, what matters is that God is at the bottom of that list. I see 3 hours that I could have spent with God, but didn't. Looks like its time for a change.

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15 minutes...

2010-07-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks I have been filling out time analysis sheets for my job. Essentially, I have to write down what I am doing for every 15 minute block of the day. Now, I am not upset by this, nor was it done to try and expose any down time I had. It was just something they asked me to do. I have to say, on my end it was a learning experience and really good for me as well.

I got to see how much time I actually spent on each area of my job. How much time I spent updating a website or see specifically that it took me 1 hour to do a mail out. It really shows where you are spending most of your time.

It got me thinking, "What if I did this for my personal life? Where would most of my time be spent? Would I be happy with the end result?" Its a fact that where you spend your resources (time, money, whatever) is where your heart is. Am I ready to see where I am investing my time? I am going to do this next week. I'm not counting my work time, I am taking a time analysis of my free time. My goal is not to change what I am currently doing, but rather just write down what I am doing. Next Friday, I'll let you know the result. Anyone care to do this with me? (I won't publish your results if you choose to participate, that would just be cruel!) It won't be easy or fun, but then again self IMPROVEMENT rarely is.

Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts.

-Psalm 90:12

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I’m not scalping...

2010-07-15T06:01:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I took the youth to a Chris Tomlin & TobyMac concert. It was a lot of fun! We had a great spot, about 15 feet from the stage! It was one of the best concerts I have been to in a long time.

Due to some of the youth not being able to go, I wound up with extra tickets. I called some friends who I thought would enjoy the concert and could go last minute, but I still wound up with extra. After some thought and discussion with the people there, I decided just to give the tickets away.

Now, like I said, these were great “seats.” They were on the floor right in front of the stage. Not cheap seats. So, I took up position a bit away from the entrance and was holding the tickets in plain view. As people came up to go into the concert, I would just ask, “Do you have tickets yet?” I was a bit shocked as most people would say, “Yes.” Then I would watch these people walk up and get in line at the ticket booth.

Now, I am not known for being the smartest person all the time. In fact there are many times something can be staring me right in the face and I’ll miss it. “What in the world?” I thought to myself. “Why are they doing that?” Then I realized what was going through their mind. “Can you believe the nerve of that guy? Scalping tickets at a Christian concert!”

So, I decided to change my tactic. I walked right up to where people standing in line to buy tickets and started my conversations with a new statement: “Hi, I’m not scalping. I have extra tickets I am giving away. Anyone interested?”

The looks I got from the people there, some of the same people who walked by me and said they had tickets, was priceless. They looked confused, skeptical, and disbelieving. Finally, after one of those great awkward silences, this guy walked up and said, “Do you have 6 together?” “ Sure do!” I said. “Here ya go.” He took them and asked where they were. “Right up front, on the floor.” I answered. Almost everyone in line turned back around as I said that. It didn’t take long for me to run out of tickets then. Two teenage girls even hugged me as I gave them tickets for them and their parents. Unfortunately, I did run out and had to tell a few people that I didn’t have anymore.

The whole experience got me thinking, “I wonder if this is why some people won’t accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. Does it all sound just too good to be true? Is it too hard to believe that it is free? That someone else already paid the price for our gift?”

If you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior because you think its just too good to be true, I urge you to just accept the free gift of His forgiveness and salvation. Don’t put it off thinking that His grace is not enough or that the gift of salvation costs too much. The the reason those of us who are redeemed do all that we do for Jesus Christ is because we want to, not to pay for what Jesus gave us.

Salvation is free.

If you believe with your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, you will be saved.

In Christ,

jon walton

Selfless...

2010-06-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

On Father's Day Missy, Isaiah, and I went to her parents house to spend time with her dad and family. We had a great time just sitting, eating and talking. When we got ready to leave, Isaiah (my son) wanted to walk home. We are neighbors so its not a long walk. I was happy to spend some time with my son, so I accompanied him. On the way, he saw a dandelion. "Dad! Dad! I have to make a wish!" He exclaimed as he bent down an picked it. He has been saving his money from chores and gifts to get a new Nintendo DS game, so I assumed that would be what he was going to wish for, but still I thought it was a cute moment with my son. I would never have guessed the words that would come out of his little mouth. He closed his eyes, held the weed close to his mouth and said:

"I wish my dad would have a great Father's Day."

Then he blew as hard as he could, causing only about 3 of the seeds to release their grip from the stem. Not to be defeated, he quickly shook the rest of them off!

I was touched. I almost cried. I bent down and hugged him and said, "Thank you buddy. That made my Father's Day great."

God continues to teach me through my son. Seems like I heard a sermon about thinking of others before yourself recently. Pastor Rick used this scripture that fits this situation pretty well I think:

Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. - Philippians 2:3

Thank you, God, for my amazing family You have given me.

In Christ,

jon walton

I Didn't Know Jesus Is Real...

2010-06-01T13:45:00.001-07:00

After giving my son, Isaiah, a bath one night, I was in his room with him while he put on his pajamas. It was just one of those little moments of me spending time with my son, talking, laughing, and being silly with him. I was praying to myself, "God, You know how I love my son. Please save his soul, but I trust in your time." I suddenly felt impressed to talk to my son about Jesus.

I asked Isaiah, "Buddy, what do you know about Jesus?" Isaiah, still kinda laughing from being silly, said, "He is God's son and He died on a cross." I thought to myself "Good job boy!" But then God, and I have no doubt about it, gave me a question to ask him. "Isaiah, do you know that Jesus isn't just a story?" Isaiah looked at me with a serious, intent face and said, "I didn't know Jesus is real." I explained it to him best I could. We talked about things that are real, like mom, dad, the cars outside, and things that aren't, Batman, Spiderman, and cartoons. He didn't accept Jesus as his savior that night, but I think he understands that Jesus is real.

Many people may say that Jesus is real, but I don't think they BELIEVE it until it changes their lives.

Therefore if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come.

-2 Corinthians 5:17

What Would You Do If You Knew God Was With You? (Part 2)

2010-05-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been given a task that was so big you thought it would be impossible to accomplish? In the Old Testament, Joshua (The successor to Moses as leader of the Israelites) was given a task by God that seemed overwhelming. He was to lead the Israelites to war against giants, walled cities, and fierce warriors. Can you imagine?

The other part of this, is God didn't show up and do everything for Joshua. Joshua had to go into these places and fight the battles. He had to destroy the villages and towns. It wasn't easy.

Yet in the midst of all this, God was with Joshua. God provided miracles to help Joshua accomplish the task assigned to him. It wasn't easy, but Joshua succeed. How? He KNEW God was with him.

Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

-Joshua 1:9

He was told this 7 times, 3 times by Moses and 4 times by the LORD. Joshua had seen God be with Moses through all the hard tasks Moses had to do. Joshua had faith that God would be with him as long as he was doing the task, no matter how difficult, God had given him.

What would you do if you KNEW God was with you? Would you take on the hard tasks? Do you want to know God is with you? Then do what Joshua did. Spend time with God and ask Him what task He has for you. When God tells you, be willing to do it, no matter how hard it may seem. Because if it is from God, He is with you, wherever you go.

In Christ,

jon walton

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What Would You Do If You Knew God Was With You?

2010-05-21T05:07:00.000-07:00

I am reading the book "Plan B" by Pete Wilson. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Whether you are in a plan B situation, have went through one, or haven't experienced one yet this book is great.

At one point in the book, Pete(I met him not long ago, I feel I can call him by his first name.) is talking how when things don't go the way we think they should, we start looking up and wondering, "God, where are You?" Its as if we think God has abandoned us, when the reality is God has never abandoned us.

Be satisfied with what you have, for He(Jesus) Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.

-Hebrews 13:5b

So what then? If we are to take the Word of God as Truth,(which it is) should it not cause us to respond to troubles differently than those who do not have God with them?

Look at the life of Joseph from the old testament. Over and over he had troubles come to him. He had lots of good and bad things happening to him. He was loved by his father, but hated by his brothers. His dad gave him a wonderful coat, his brothers decided to beat him up an kill him. One of his brothers convinced the others to spare Joseph's life, so they sold him into slavery. He gets promoted in Potiphar's house, then gets thrown into prison for a crime he didn't commit. It goes on and on with him through several years, yet never does the Bible show Joseph getting upset with God, or even his circumstance. Why? Because all throughout the Joseph's life you see this phrase in the Bible, "The Lord was with Joseph." Through he good and the bad, the joy and the sorrow, the comfort and the pain, Joseph knew the Lord was with him. Because Joseph knew the Lord was with him, he approached his troubles with confidence that he would get through them. He approached his troubles with faith that the Lord would take him through the bad times.

What would you do if you KNEW God was with you?

Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

-Hebrews 13:6

In Christ,

jon walton

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We Have To Make A Change...

2010-05-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

I think it is important that we all take time on a regular basis to check our lives and see if we who are called by the name of Jesus Christ are doing what He would have us do. For weeks now, I have been evaluating my life. I am looking at where I am spending my money. I am looking a where I am spending my time. I am looking at my life and wondering, "Is this what Jesus would want me to be doing?"

Pastor Rick preached a powerful(slap in your face powerful) message Sunday, May 2. He made this quote:

"We have come to a place in America where people think they can worship Jesus without doing what He did or obeying what He said."

How does that line up with the Word of God?

The one who says, "I have come to know Him," without keeping His commands, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. - 1 John 2:4

While preparing for the sermon I am preaching Sunday, I have come to a realization. I sat down with my wife this week and told her, "Honey, we have to make a change." I am not sure to what extent it will be, but I know that I will follow Jesus Christ in whatever He leads.

In Christ,

jon walton

Passion...

2010-04-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

I attended a conference yesterday with some others from Crossroads and had the opportunity to hear Johnny Hunt speak. Let me say right off, if you every get the chance to hear him preach, you should. The man has a gift for preaching the Word of God. In fact, he preached for nearly 25 minutes before he got to what he had prepared, then started what he prepared, was on stage for over an hour and a half and never once did I want him to stop. He really is that good!

He told a story that caught my attention. He said that after someone had visited his church for 3 months, they approached him and told him they were not going to be coming back. He wasn't hurt, made mad by someone, or asked to leave. No, the reason he was leaving was because he didn't believe what the Johnny Hunt was preaching. He didn't believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. He didn't believe the Bible was Truth. He told Johnny that he wanted to give Johnny the chance to convince him, but after 3 months the visitor just did not believe. Yet, he made a statement to Johnny Hunt that was profound.

"Preacher, I don't believe what you are preaching, but you sure do!"

Let me challenge you as this challenged me. Does the way you live your life, the things you say and do, show that you are so passionate about Jesus Christ that it is obvious you BELIEVE He is the Son of God? That you BELIEVE the Bible is Truth? That you BELIEVE living for Jesus Christ in everything is really the best why to live? That you BELIEVE Jesus is coming back?

Are you passionate about Jesus? Really?

In Christ,

jon walton

Being Corrected...

2010-04-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

Missy and I have been getting ready for a youth event at our house this week. We have been cleaning, cooking (well, SHE has been cooking, I burn toast on stage in front of everyone), moving stuff around, and just in general being very busy. It can make for a stressful environment when you are doing lots of extra stuff along with everything else that is normally going on in your life. These stressful times are opportunities for us to either be encouraging or hurtful.

Last night, as we were finishing up I was talking with Missy as I was cleaning and she was cooking. We were both tired and I wasn't really paying attention to what I was saying. To be dead honest, I remember the point I was trying to make, but I don't remember the exact words I said. What I do remember very clearly is what my wife said in response: "Just shut up." That got my attention as I was quickly trying to go back over what I had just said. She was mad.

Later that night before bed I pursued her on the conversation we were having. I heard what she has told me before. It is something I constantly struggle with in our relationship. "Sometimes you really degrade me and my decisions." She said. "You hold things over my head and tell me what a bad choice it was, all while talking about the good choice you made. It hurts."

I felt like a pile of dung. I knew I was in the wrong. I was being corrected for incorrect behavior.

At this point, I have a choice to make. We all do when we are being corrected. I see it with Isaiah when I correct his behavior. I see it in a teenager when I call them down for talking during the sermon or lesson. I even see this choice being made in a dog when training it. Anytime we are being corrected, we can choose to go on the defensive, get angry, and take a stand on our point even though we know we are wrong, or we can choose to accept the fact that we are wrong, apologize, and begin to adjust our behavior as needed.

God corrects our behavior, too. Again we have a choice in the matter. We can choose to accept His correction, or reject it.

But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects...

-Proverbs 3:11,12

I hugged my wife, told her I was so sorry. I am accepting the correction that she is giving me to make our relationship better. 11 years in and I still want to do more for her. 11 years in and I am so glad that she loves me enough to tell me when I am wrong. Today I am mindful of the words I say. That I am being a Godly husband, and loving my wife as Christ loves the church: abundantly and without restraint.

In Christ,

jon walton

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A Reflection...

2010-04-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

I sometimes get very frustrated with people who claim to be following Jesus Christ, yet their actions, words, and thought process doesn't reflect it. Not that we don't make mistakes, anger gets the better of me at times, I can be selfish, rude, go too far, push too hard, and be a down right jerk at times. However, I have learned through, the grace of Jesus and my desire to serve Him as my Master, that whenever I mess up I should seek quickly to make a mends where possible and repent of my wrong doing. That is, not only correct my mistake (apologize to who I hurt/made mad) but to also doing my best to stop that behavior. Yet everyday I see people who don't. They only apologize, or try to correct a problem when they are caught doing something wrong.

I think this stems from the "casual" view of Christianity many have in America. The most persecution you would most likely come under in our country from saying you are a Christian is possibly being laughed at, or told "no" when you offer to share your faith with someone. So, in reality, saying you are a "Christian" in America is an easy thing to do. Yet the ease of this leads many to not take their walk with Christ serious at any point. Never taking the time to consider the entirety of one's commitment to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ & the Bible leads to a life that is just not honoring to God.

Perhaps Paul said it best in Titus 1 in his instructions for leaders:

(10a)For there are also many rebellious people, idle talkers and deceivers...
(14)They profess to know God, but they deny Him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, and disqualified for any good work.

When you look in your mirror, do you see a person who matches what you say about yourself? Does your reflection match your description?

In Christ,

jon walton

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Think About This...

2010-04-01T05:34:00.001-07:00

I read something recently that I wanted to share. I will quote part of it here, and give you the link to the full article.

I came across a quote attributed most often to Rev. Sam Pascoe. It is a short version of the history of Christianity, and it goes like this:

Christianity started in Palestine as a fellowship; it moved to Greece and became a philosophy; it moved to Italy and became an institution; it moved to Europe and became a culture; it came to America and became an enterprise.

Some of the students were only 18 or 19 years old–barely out of diapers–and I wanted them to understand and appreciate the import of the last line, so I clarified it by adding, “An enterprise. That’s a business.” After a few moments Martha, the youngest student in the class, raised her hand. I could not imagine what her question might be. I thought the little vignette was self-explanatory, and that I had performed it brilliantly. Nevertheless, I acknowledged Martha’s raised hand, “Yes, Martha.” She asked such a simple question, “A business? But isn’t it supposed to be a body?” I could not envision where this line of questioning was going, and the only response I could think of was, “Yes.” She continued, “But when a body becomes a business, isn’t that a prostitute?”

How are you treating the body of Christ?

Link to full article

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Because I Love You...

2010-03-18T10:22:00.001-07:00

Last night when I got home, there was something waiting for me. A small envelope with no name on it, no markings, just a small, sealed, white envelope. "Your son said that is for you. He wouldn't let me open it." My wife informed me. I opened it to find that Isaiah had written my name, Jon, in scribbly, orange marker. I stood there holding this piece of printer paper with my name on it along with some other small marks. I almost cried.

The next morning I told Isaiah, "I got your note you left for me." His eyes lit up as he ran to the kitchen table. Grabbing the piece of paper he had written and left for me he exclaimed, "This is your name, dad. I wrote it for you because I love you!" I did cry. I bent down and hugged my son tightly. "I love you too, buddy." I muttered out between tears. I truly can not express how much that means to me. It is one thing for him to love me, but he takes it further. He allows his love for me to affect his actions. He does things for me because he loves me.

When is the last time you did something for Jesus just because you love Him? Do you realize it doesn't matter if it is a masterpiece or not? It doesn't have to be a painting of the Mona Lisa, your "scribble on a piece of paper" still shows you love Him.

"The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. And the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him." - John 14:21

"Thank You, Jesus, for my family."

In Christ,

jon walton

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Growing a Beard...

2010-03-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

I am growing a beard for our Easter Play. I have been growing it since February since my beard grows somewhat slow and I knew it would take some time if I wanted a good, full beard at the time of the the play, Easter Sunday. While it has been growing I have noticed some "stages" if you will of the process up to this point, can I share them with you?

Stage 1: The decision.

The reason here is important, though it may not seem like it until later on. The real focus at the time is that I have made a decision and I am sticking with it no matter what. Nothing can detour me as I embark on my endeavorer to change my appearance. I really have no idea what's in store.

Stage 2: Staying the course.

As my face began to get "scruffy," as my wife and son put it, I began to think about how nice it would be to shave it off. My wife didn't like that when I kissed her she had to endure the rough upper lip stubble. I looked like I just didn't care enough to take care of my self and look decent. However, I kept in mind my goal: To have a good, full beard by Easter. This is just a time that will pass.

Stage 3: Its getting more difficult, but encouragement helps.

As it turns from stubble into a light beard, something happens that I knew was coming. It was unavoidable. It began to itch like poison ivy had been smeared on my face then rubbed in with a wire brush. I was constantly scratching it. My wife asked me on several occasions, "Do you have fleas or something?" I was not amused. She reminded me as well that I looked like a bum. However, some other people commented on how good it looked and that it suited me well. Including my son who interrupted me suddenly once just to tell me, "DAD! I like your beard." "Thanks son, can I please finish ordering our supper now?" I wanted to shave it off so bad. I could hear my razor calling me every morning.

Stage 4: Maintenance.

The beard still itches and now it is long enough that the hair growing under my nose is constantly touching my upper lip and driving me crazy. I begin to trim it so it doesn't bother me as much. The wife has stopped telling people we are married for fear of embarrassment in public(not really, but I'm sure she thought about it). If I don't trim it and keep it up, it is going to look horrible. Why am I doing this again? Oh yeah, Easter is just a few weeks away...

Stage 5: Confidence.

After several weeks of growth, it finally no longer itches. I have gotten use to trimming it when needed and now even I am starting to think it looks ok. For some reason some people have an uncontrollable urge to touch or rub it. I'm pretty sure it doesn't give good luck, though some my be spreading that rumor. Please stop if you are.

You may be thinking that this is a lot of thought to put into growing a beard, but in actuality I thought of it because many go through the same stages when they accept Jesus as their Savior.

Stage 1: The decision.

The reason here is important, though it may not seem like it until later on. The real focus at the time is that I have made a decision and I am sticking with it no matter what. Nothing can detour me as I embark on my endeavorer to change everything about me. My life is in shambles and I needed someone to save me. Jesus, I am following and trusting You!

Stage 2: Staying the course.

As my life began to get "challenging," as my friends and pastor put it, I began to think about how nice it would be to just give up. Some of my friends don't like that I am not doing the same things I used to. They think I just don't care and call me "self righteous." However, I kept in mind my goal: To have a better life. To give honor to Jesus Christ and live with Him in Heaven one day. This is just a time that will pass.

Stage 3: Its getting more difficult, but encouragement helps.

As I follow Jesus more, something happens that I knew was coming. It was unavoidable. I began to be persecuted. I was constantly being ridiculed, or even hurt for my belief in Jesus Christ. I was told how stupid I am for beveling in such silly nonsense. However, some other people commented on how much I had changed and how much better my life was even though some things were difficult. Including my friends and family who had also accepted Jesus as their Savior because of the change in my life. I wanted to stop being a Christian sometimes, but the love of my new family drove me forward. I could hear my past calling me, but I know I can continue with Christ on my side.

Stage 4: Maintenance.

I have been following Jesus for some time now and my life has gotten busy. I tend to neglect my quiet times with Jesus, I haven't read my Bible in a while, and I have missed meeting with other Christians from time to time. Its time I did some upkeep on my spiritual life. If I don't, it is going to get forgotten and forsaken. Why am I doing this again? Oh yeah, because of what Jesus did for me... and because I love Him.

Stage 5: Confidence.

After many days of prayer, reading my Bible, and spending time with Jesus, I am ready for whatever is next. I am not perfect, but I know I belong to Jesus who will testify to God on my behalf. I am confidant He is the only way to Salvation. Things may get difficult again, but I will trust in the Lord. I can't wait to get to Heaven!

What stage are you in?

In Christ,

jon walton

P.S. I know this isn't the same for everyone, just for some.

2 AM...

2010-02-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

Thought I would try this for this week. If you like it, let me know, I may do it again.

E-mail jon: jon@crossroadsnewport.com

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God is always at work in our lives.

2010-02-19T12:21:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for God's hand at work in my life and in others. I believe God gives us signs that He is actively working in our lives, but many times we are so busy with "stuff" that we miss God telling us something very subtle.

Last night, my family and I went to a youth night revival at a nearby church. It was great. The band did an awesome job of bringing everyone into the right mind of worship, the pastor had a great message and delivered it right on a teenager's level, and the fellowship after the service was relaxed and meaningful. I hadn't seen this pastor speaking in over two years, but something amazing to me happened during his message. He spoke particularly about staying away from sexual immorality, something that is running rampant in teens lives today and has for sometime. It is a difficult topic to speak on. I have done it myself before and know the resistance that it can be met with. The awesome thing? It was our topic at youth group on Wednesday night, the night before we went to this service.

After his message, I told the pastor "Good job" and smiling told him that I had talked about it with my youth group the night before. He hugged me and said, 'Thank you so much!" He expressed to me how nervous he was preparing for it. How nervous he got as he taught this Biblical truth while looking in the eyes of those listening. People who were telling him with their faces "Back off." I smiled and told him, "Take it as a confirmation that this is a topic God wants to convey to this generation."

God is always at work in our lives. He sees our worries, our fears, what makes us nervous, and what tears us down. He knows when we need encouragement and when to send someone to give it. God promised that He would never leave nor forsake us. I'm glad God is faithful to His promises.

In Christ,

jon walton

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Are You Saying You're Tired of Waiting for God?

2010-02-04T06:18:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, I got very irritated about something very unimportant. I have no access to highspeed internet, but I really want to have it. Why? It would make things simpler for me being able to look up things online when I want. It would make things easier for my wife, going to school for her master's degree online. However, the main reason I want it is to play video games online. For me, gaming is a social experience. I love gaming, but playing online with friends is 10 times better than playing alone. If I had high speed, it would be another way to stay connected with friends.

Now, to get a full picture, I have been looking for a highspeed option for about 5 years. FIVE. YEARS. I have checked with satellite companies but they have expensive set up and equipment costs, expensive monthly charges, and online gaming won't work with satellite due to latency in the line. I have checked with cable companies, but none of them are even planing offering service for still yet years to come. I have checked on DSL, but we are way too far from the central office for it. I have even checked with cell phone companies, but none of them offer fast enough speeds in my area and they limit the usage each month. I had checked with local wireless companies to no avail as well. In short, there are no feasible options. I have been looking for 5 years, and nothing is available.

I came home a few days ago, frustrated, angry, and feeling defeated over this. My loving wife could tell I was just not in a good mood. I am so blessed to have her, I really "married up." After we put Isaiah to bed, she began to ask me what was wrong. I told her how frustrated I was with the situation. See, along with looking for 5 years, I have been praying about this for 5 years. Being honest, part of my frustration was with God. Why wasn't God answering this prayer? I knew it wasn't the most important thing, but it was something important to me and I felt like God was just ignoring me on this. Or worse, telling me to just wait. During our discussion (more accurately, my whining and Missy putting up with it for a bit) I said I was ready to settle and try an expensive option. Missy looked at me and called me out. "Are You Saying You're Tired of Waiting for God? That you don't think He can do this?" She asked me.

I was speechless. I was mad. I was fuming inside. She was right. I turned to her and grunted out, "I love you, good night." That was all I could get out. She hugged me, kissed me and told me goodnight as she went to bed. I prayed that night, "God, this still sucks. I still am not getting what I have been waiting for, but I will trust You. I will wait for Your timing." The next morning I felt revealed. I knew God had not left me, nor was He ignoring me. He knows what He is doing, even if I don't.

Hard lessons are never fun, but I know that I grow the most from hard lessons. Thank you God, for the wonderful wife you have given me who speaks truth, even when it is not what I want to hear, into my life. Thank you God, for the hard lessons.

In Christ,

jon walton

Crossroads Website

That's why I don't let you lick me...

2010-01-26T13:03:00.000-08:00

I was walking to my neighbor's house to get something and was accompanied by my dog, Daisy. She is a 9 year old Jack Russel and is probably the best dog I have ever had. She is always great with Isaiah, never showing any signs of aggression to him or anyone in the family for that matter. Her tail is constantly wagging, constantly reminding me that she is happy to see me. She keeps the rodent population around the house down and gladly finishes off any scraps we have left over. She takes walks with me when I choose, plays with Isaiah when he wants to, and listens when I give her commands. She is a great dog.

About halfway on our trip, Daisy starts coughing and hacking. Then, suddenly she throws up right beside where I am walking. "You ok?" I asked looking down at her. She looked up at me, tail wagging so hard the body is shaking as if to say, "I feel better now!" We continued on to the neighbor's house, dismissing the incident as something bad she ate. On the way back, Daisy did something that I have seen many dogs do before and to this day it confuses me. As we approached the place where she had threw up, she slowed down and began to sniff her puke, followed by her licking it, then eating some. "Daisy!" I said in a rather disgusted voice. She simply looked up at me with the same brown eyes, tail still wagging as hard as it could. "That's why I don't let you lick me." I told her convincingly.

The incident reminded me of a Bible verse I had memorized as a child because I thought it was funny.

"As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his foolishness." - Proverbs 26:11

The fact is we are all going to be foolish at one point or another. We are all going to make mistakes. We are all going to do something stupid. We are all going to throw up at some point. It happens. The key is, once you do it, don't go back to it. Don't be a fool. Repeating your foolishness is disgusting. Learn from your mistakes, don't go try to eat them again!

In Christ,

jon walton

Calling the Cows...

2010-01-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

I live on a small farm next door to my Mother & Father in law on one side and my Brother and Sister in law on the other. We all get along well and help each other often. Having family like that is great. My Father in law is gone on vacation and he asked me to feed the cows while he is away. I agreed and every evening this week I have been putting out grain for them.

Now, the cows need to be there when I put out the grain. There is no feeding trough, so the grain is dumped straight on the ground. If the cows aren't there when you put the grain out, it will ruin overnight on the ground and the cows won't eat it when they come check. Why is this a problem? Well, my father in law works nights. I work days. These cows are accustomed to eating in the morning. I am feeding them in the evening. Cows, being creatures of habit, don't naturally come up to the feeding area in the evening. So, you have to "call" them.

I am sure there are several "calls" for cows, but as I grew up I learned one from my grandmother. I don't know that I can type out the sound I make, but if you ask me sometime I'll say it for you. At any rate, when I got ready to feed the cows, I would call them. The first night, no cows came at the initial call. In fact, I am sure these cows were all together somewhere wondering what this crazy person making an odd sound was. So I walked to the edge of the field with the feeding bucket in hand, still making the call. As the cows noticed me, more importantly the feeding bucket, they began to run to me. I walked them to the feeding area, still making the call.

The second night, three of the nine cows came when I called. As they came, they "moo'ed" telling the others "DINNER TIME!" By the third night, these cows had learned when they hear my call food was on its way. They had learned my voice and what it meant.

Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow Me."(John 10:27) When the cows didn't know my voice, they didn't know I was wanting them to come and eat. They didn't understand what I was saying. As I taught them, they understood and followed. Are we really so different? For those of us who know our Shepherd, do we know His voice? He calls us. He warns us when we are going into danger. He has given us His Word(the Bible) to learn His voice and His calls. Have we taken advantage of that? Don't ignore His calls. He may just be wanting to feed us.

In Christ,

jon walton

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It Gets Better Every Year...

2010-01-08T06:05:00.001-08:00

There are few things that get better with age. I mean really think about it. Your tires on your car wear out with age. You need to buy new shoes when the ones you have on begin to wear holes in them. Bread will mold as time passes. Milk will turn bad with age, even turn solid given enough time! Technology gets outdated almost before it comes out now and the longer you wait to upgrade the bigger the leap is. Time causes most things to get worse, even our bodies. As we age we get hurt more easily, we need more sleep, and eventually we just wear out. Time works against most things.

There are a few things that get better with age though. Cheese, for example, when aged properly gains flavor, texture, and a richness that can only come with time. Reputation can improve with time, if the right actions are taken during that time. Wisdom comes with experience, and you must be around long enough to have experiences. There are a few things that time improves.

Tomorrow, January 9th, 2010 something wonderful happens in my life. I have the opportunity to celebrate 11 years of marriage with my wife. I can say without any reservation that my life with Missy gets better every year. God has blessed me with an incredible woman. She is an amazing helpmate, incredible mother, gifted teacher, God fearing Christian, and loving wife. One of the most amazing things I ever discovered about her is that she reads the Bible specifically in search of how to be a Godly wife. I am blessed beyond what I deserve to have her in my life. I look forward to another year with her. Heck, I look forward to our life together! If there were anyway to truly describe her, it would be this:

Who can find a capable wife?
She is far more precious than jewels.

The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will not lack anything good.

She rewards him with good, not evil,
all the days of her life.

She selects wool and flax
and works with willing hands.

She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from far away.

She rises while it is still night
and provides food for her household
and portions for her servants.

She evaluates a field and buys it;
she plants a vineyard with her earnings.

She draws on her strength
and reveals that her arms are strong.

She sees that her profits are good,
and her lamp never goes out at night.

She extends her hands to the spinning staff,
and her hands hold the spindle.

Her hands reach out to the poor,
and she extends her hands to the needy.

She is not afraid for her household when it snows,
for all in her household are doubly clothed.

She makes her own bed coverings;
her clothing is fine linen and purple.

Her husband is known at the city gates,
where he sits among the elders of the land.

She makes and sells linen garments;
she delivers belts to the merchants.

Strength and honor are her clothing,
and she can laugh at the time to come.

She opens her mouth with wisdom,
and loving instruction is on her tongue.

She watches over the activities of her household
and is never idle.

Her sons rise up and call her blessed.
Her husband also praises her:

"Many women are capable,
but you surpass them all!"

Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting,
but a woman who fears the LORD will be praised.

Give her the reward of her labor,
and let her works praise her at the city gates.

-Proverbs 31:10-31

Thank you for the last 11 plus years Missy. Thank you for all you have done for me, our family, and the Lord. May you, my wife, be abundantly blessed each and every day.

In Christ,

jon walton

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Its Tradition...

2009-12-31T12:45:00.000-08:00

Have you ever stopped and wondered why we do some of the things we do? There are many things we do just because we have always done them. Like black eyed peas and hog jaw on New Year's Day. I don't know why, but I can remember growing up we always had that for supper on New Year's day. I still don't know why, maybe someone can educate me as to why that is the meal to eat on that day.

In our society we have lots of things like that. Think about it, Turkey and dressing on Thanksgiving, singing carols at Christmas, giving candy and flowers on Valentine's Day, and watching fireworks at the Independence Day just to name a few. Those are all pretty well known traditions, but we all have tons of our own. For example, Missy, Isaiah and I always celebrate Christmas with my family on Christmas Eve, and with her side of the family on Christmas day. At my family reunion each year in June, we will play guitar and sing old hymns. Every year at midnight on New Years Eve for the past 11 years I have kissed my wife. But have you ever wondered, "Why?" All these traditions are actually quite special. They are there usually to help us remember certain things. Like how the pilgrims and Native Americans made peace, how Jesus came from Heaven to become God with us, how a bishop helped two lovers by exchanging gifts between them, or how we celebrated becoming a nation. For our personal traditions, they hold a special meaning, too. Like how we would celebrate Christmas with my grandparents on Christmas Eve, how my Uncle and grandmother would always want to sing hymns at the family reunion, and how I promised my wife that I would only kiss her on New Years Eve till death do us part.

Jesus understood this. He knew at the last supper, the last meal He would share with His closest friends, that He wanted not only them, but everyone to remember who He is and what He was doing.

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: on the night when He was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, "This is My body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me."

In the same way He also took the cup, after supper, and said, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

May God bless you in this new year. May you seek Him more each day, and may you find what you seek.

In Christ,

jon walton

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

From all of us, Missy, Isaiah, and myself, Merry Christmas. May you and your family be blessed this year. May you grow closer to Jesus in your everyday life. May you seek the Lord's will and find the adventure He has for you. May you bless others with your abundance. May you be given a heart of love for those who surround you and those who have less than you. May you represent Christ Jesus in your actions, words, and thoughts. May you remember why those who believe on the Lord celebrate this time of year. May you praise the name of Jesus!

In Christ,

jon walton

Little Eyes Are Watching...

2009-12-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

If you have met me, ever read this blog, or heard me speak you know that I have a 5 year old son named Isaiah. You would also know that I love him dearly. He is starting to do some new things that make me really happy. For example, a few Sundays ago, he came to me with his face just beaming with joy. As he approached me he said, "Look Dad! I'm dressed just like you!" Then he noticed that his shirt was tucked in and mine wasn't. As quick as he could he untucked his shirt(to his mother's joy I'm sure) and stated, "NOW I'm dressed JUST like you!" How can you not hug him after that? Someone not long ago pointed out something about Isaiah as well. As he was following me down the isle for KidStuf one Sunday morning, I heard someone behind us laughing. I turned around and asked what was so funny. The lady said through her laughter, "He walks just like you!" I didn't even know I had a specific walk.

I notice it in his actions, too. Many times he will ask me, "Dad, what are you eating for supper? I want that, too!" Or, "Dad, can I play my guitar with you?" My interests are becoming his interests. He wants to do the things I want to do. He is watching my every move and copying me. Whether he likes it or not, he is becoming like me.

Fathers and sons tend to do that. That is probably why Jesus used terms people were familiar with. Jesus was(is) just like God. In fact, the way they act, talk, and the things they do are almost identical. Much like a Son imitating his father.

Then Jesus replied, "I assure you: The Son is not able to do anything on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does these things in the same way."

John 15:9

If you want to know what God is like, look at the life of Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son. Look at his life from humble birth in a manger to the resurrection from the tomb, He is just like His father.

In Christ,

jon walton

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I Am Thankful...

2009-11-25T10:30:00.000-08:00

As Thanksgiving approaches, I have been thinking about just how blessed I am. God has given me much more than I deserve.

I am thankful for my incredible wife. She encourages me when I am tired, cheers me up when I am sad, brings me back down to earth when my head is in the clouds, hugs me when I am depressed, cries with me when I mourn, and is always at my side. She strives hard to be a Biblical wife. She is my helpmate, my desire, my love, my support, and even at times my protector. I am thankful for my wife.

I am thankful for my son. His laugh can bring joy to the most rainy day. His playfulness allows me to be 5 years old again. He depends on my wife and I for food, clothes, shelter, and love. What he doesn't realize is the joy it brings us to give him his needs and show love to him. God has taught me more about Himself through my son in the past 5 years than I had learned about God the first 23 years of my life. I am thankful for my son.

I am thankful for my church. Crossroads, I have been with you for 3 years this coming Easter. You have welcomed me and my family in, nurtured us to grow, and been a source of support when we need it. You have given me the opportunity to begin to fulfill God's call on my life to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and do my best to give the youth a firm foundation on which to stand. You are truly a people who are about the business of Christ Jesus. To the close friends I have made on whom I have called for advice, help, guidance, and friendship, an extra thanks. I am thankful for my church.

Most of all, I am thankful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. Without Your love, I would be lost. Without Your mercy, I would be punished. Without Your grace, I would have no hope. Without Your blood, I would be condemned. I am thankful for my Savior.

May God bless you, your family, and friends this year. May you seek Jesus Christ as you make your way through this life, and as you seek, may you find.

In Christ,

jon walton

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Available To All.

2009-11-20T08:36:00.000-08:00

I live in a very rural area. In fact, besides family the closest neighbor I have is about a mile away. It is a great place to live, its quiet and beautiful. We have lots of room for the kids to play, ride our ATV's, camp out, and generally enjoy God's creation. We don't have to worry about the neighbor looking in our windows or getting too close to our yard, it is pretty peaceful where we live.

However, I do have one complaint: There is no access to high speed internet where I live. Does that sound crazy? I thought everyone had that access! For crying out loud, there is even high-speed WiFi offered on airplanes flying thousands of miles above us! Never the less, no high speed option(except for satellite which will not work with what I want) is available to me. Why? Because there is not enough demand for it in my area. The houses are too far apart, it would be too difficult or take too long for a company to make money running the lines or setting up the equipment to make it available. Bummer.

Is Jesus like that? Did Jesus say, "Sure I'll give my life as long as at least 10 million people will accept me."? Did Jesus say, "Sure you can go to heaven, as long as you complete enough good works."? Did Jesus say, "When enough people are ready, then I will allow salvation."? Absolutely not! In fact, Jesus' desire and the truth is the direct opposite!

The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.

-2 Peter 3:9

"Thank you Jesus, that your salvation is available to all. You do not restrict your coverage. Your love knows no boundaries. You are available to all."

In Christ,

jon walton

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My First Ministry...

2009-11-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

I have the opportunity to preach this Sunday again and with that comes preparation time. I know of pastors and preachers that get up in front of a congregation without notes or even really preparing a sermon, yet when they preach it is good and from God. I think that is awesome that they can do that, but God doesn't work that way for me. I'll just be honest, I start preparing the minute I know I am going to be preaching.

As I was preparing for this sermon, I kept getting interrupted by various things. First off, I have been sick for a week now. I hate being sick. Not only have I been sick, but Missy(my wife) and Isaiah(my son) have been as well. Its nothing that bad, but I can bet that the stock market value on tissues have gone up this week. Seriously, the trash can looks like the Kleenex factory exploded! Missy is going back to school for her master's degree which means I am taking care of Isaiah as much as possible so she can study and go to class. As I am reading, taking notes, and looking up the meanings of words last night, my son says, "Dad, will you play Xbox with me?" A few games later I tell him, "I really need to study now." He plays for a bit by himself, then asks, "Dad, can you play Lego's with me?" A few built airplanes and cars later I am back to studying. I check the clock, 8:00pm. "Isaiah, time for your bath" I told him as I got up heading to the bathroom to start the bath water. After his bath and I got him to bed, I was ready to buckle down and finish out my sermon. That's when Missy walked in from class, her head sunk low. She came in and started to tell me about her day. I glanced at the clock as she started, 9:30pm.

It was about that time I remembered something that Dr. David Jeremiah had said. He was trying to finish a book and faced a series of interruptions similar to mine. His son wanted to play catch and David told him, "Not now, I need to finish this, there is a deadline coming up." His wife, overhearing the conversation came in as his son left and told him, "David, there will always be another deadline to meet, sermon to prepare, or book to write, but your son will only be 13 for one year, then it will be gone." David's prayer has stuck with me ever since I heard it, and I silently prayed it while Missy told me about her day:

"Dear God, help me. Let me not put anything before my first ministry ever again. My first ministry is my family."

Are there relationships in your family that are broken? Have you been putting other things before you family like work, play, or even yourself? Now is the time to start repairing your first ministry. Now is the time to make your family your first ministry. They need you and you need them. Don't let them be last in line.

In Christ,

jon walton

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No, No, Don't Do That.

2009-11-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I called up a friend and invited him out to lunch. To my surprise, when we got ready to pay he said, "I got this." My natural response was the same when I have offered to buy his, "No, no, don't do that."

This is an odd custom we have in America. Maybe it's just in the south, i'm not sure, but this refusal of a gift. It's weird when you think about it. Why are we so hesitant, or even standoffish, when someone wants to do something nice for us? I think it comes from the feeling of "If they do something nice for me, I HAVE to do something nice for them." When did that start? I thought a gift was something FREELY given. When I went to Brazil on a mission trip a few years ago, one of the things they told us was, "If someone offers you something, do not refuse it. Take it and say 'Thank you.' The take offense to someone refusing a gift."

This Sunday we are putting our Faith into Act!on. We are canceling our 11:00 AM service and serving the community. We will be handing out food boxes, cutting hair, giving medical exams, and more. I can promise you no one showing up for help will be saying "No, no, don't do that." These people will be taking everything we are willing to give. You know what the incredible thing about that is? When we give because of the love we have for Jesus, we are the ones who get blessed. So many people don't get that, but when you do you start looking for ways to help others out.

May your gifts be given freely with no expection of something in return. And may others bless you without your refusal.

In Christ,
jon walton

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Should I Pray for Myself?

2009-10-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

Someone recently asked me a question that I think everyone who has accepted Jesus as their Savior asks themselves at one point or another: Should I pray for myself? In fact, here is the exact question:

"I notice going thru storms I pray a lot for myself. Is that selfish and do I show a lack of faith when I pray for myself?"

The short answer is, no, it is not selfish in the least to pray for yourself, nor do you show a lack of faith. Let's look at Paul, I would think he was pretty strong in his faith.

Paul not only prayed for himself, but even asked others to pray for him. When Paul was given the thorn in his flesh, he says he pleaded with God three times to remove it. (2 Cor. 12:7-10) That sounds a lot like someone praying for help in a storm. There are also several times when Paul requests prayers for himself:

Romans 15:30; Ephesians 6:18-19; 1 Thessalonians 5:25; 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2; 2 Corinthians 1:11; Colossians 4:2-4

So, does asking for prayer, or praying for yourself show a lack of faith? I would actually say the opposite. The fact that you are asking shows a GROWTH in faith! By asking for help in your time of need, you are telling Jesus "I trust You." You are casting your cares on Him, and imploring Him to be your source of strength. No, by asking for Christ's help you are not in any way showing a lack of faith.

Maybe the most telling truth that we SHOULD pray for ourselves is the fact that Jesus Christ, who we are following, prayed for Himself. Just before his crucifixion, He prayed that God would take the cup from Him if possible. (Luke 22:39-44) But as He prayed, He became more in anguish and prayed even harder. I would think that Jesus, knowing what He was about to face, was praying for courage, strength, and the will to follow through with such an incredible task. If our Lord saw it fit to pray for Himself, shouldn't we?

In Christ,
jon walton

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I Took a Bite Out of My Keys...

2009-10-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

I hate being rushed. Being busy is fine and having lots to do is fine, but being rushed just puts me on edge and kinda stresses me out. You know what I mean. When people say, "I need this yesterday!" or "Hurry up!" I like to do things on my time. I want to do things well and be able to think about what I am doing, not have to make quick decisions and more than likely the wrong one.

I was in a hurry one morning recently. I had overslept and was trying to get everything done and still get to work on time. I was getting my son ready, packing his lunch, packing my lunch, getting my things for work, and neither one of us had eaten breakfast yet. I told him to buy his breakfast and I put a couple of pieces of bread in the toaster for me. I gathered up everything, grabbed the toast as it popped up and headed out to the truck. After putting my son and all the stuff in the truck, I grabbed my keys out of my pocket as I rushed to make my way to the driver's seat. I sat down, took a bite out of my keys and shoved my toast into the ignition. I hate being rushed.

I am so glad that the God I serve is never rushed. He never oversleeps, He never gets in a hurry, He never has to make last second decisions. His plan is being carried out just as He set it up. He is never surprised by anything, never caught off guard, and He never has to jump to a conclusion. I am glad to put my trust in the God that has it all under control and is allowing everything to happen in His time.

There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven.
-Ecclesiastes 3:1

In Christ,
jon walton

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Orange or Red?

2009-10-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

We usually go out to eat on Sundays for lunch after church with friends, family, or just about anyone who will come. I love being around people, talking, and finding out about people and what is going on in their lives. It is just enjoyable to me and my family to get to know people on a deeper level than just "Hi, how are you?"
As we were getting ready to leave the restaurant at one such occasion, my son began asking, "Dad, do you have any money?" He wanted quarters for the turn machines with small toys or candy in them. "No, I don't buddy" I said checking my pockets, "but you really don't need anything do you?" Not being detoured by my comment he turns to the other source of happiness in his life available, "Mom, do you have any money?" I heard him ask as they walked to the door and I waited in line to pay. After paying for the food, I meet them at the door, my son had a handful of candy. "I got bones, dad!" he explained with enthusiasm showing me all his candy shaped like dog bones. " We stood and talked a bit more as we were saying our goodbyes to our friends, then went to our respective vehicles. It was at my truck where my son amazed me again.
"Orange or red, dad?" my son said pretty randomly as I was opening the truck door for him to get in. "Orange." I said simply because it was the first thing that popped into my head. Smiling, my son handed me a tiny orange candy bone, then put the red one he still had in his mouth. It was and unprovoked act of kindness on his part. An act of kindness to someone who just moments ago told him he didn't need the candy, yet he was showing love anyway.
Who was the last person who told you "no"? Have you chosen to show them love anyway? Who was the last person to be mean to you? Have you chosen to show them love anyway? Who was the last person to let you down? Have you chosen to show them love anyway?

And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
-Ephesians 4:32

In Christ,
jon walton

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Welcome Home...

2009-09-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

I rarely travel without my family. I don't like being away from my wife, who is absolutely amazing and I don't know how I would get along without, or my son, who daily makes me laugh and by just looking at him makes me want to try harder. My family is important to me. I love them with all my heart. I choose to take a trip to see some friends but my wife couldn't get off work, so I went it alone and Isaiah stayed with her. I miss them terribly in situations like that. I know it was only for a few days, I called often, and I knew they were safe, but I still missed them. When I came home, my wife greeted me first with a strong, long hug. It felt so good just to hold her and be held by her again, like a moment of utter peace. "Welcome home, honey" she said as she loosened her grip on me. When my son, who was playing on the computer, saw me he stopped, ran to me and hugged me tightly. "I never saw you for a long time, dad!" he shouted as he almost choked me.

It is a wonderful feeling to know you are loved. With a family comes responsibility, discipline, heartache, and sacrifice, yet the reward of love is worth it. Love is not only receiving, but giving. Love is everlasting, all conquering, and all forgiving. It is amazing to me that my family loves me as they do. I am not perfect, but they still love me. I make mistakes, but they still love me. I am even more amazed that Jesus Christ loves me. Because He is perfect, blameless, and amazing, yet I am not. Jesus is the example of love we should all strive for.

I can't wait until I get to walk into my eternal home, Heaven. I can't wait until I am greeted by my Savior, and I can put my arms around His neck, tell Him thank you, and hear Him say, "Welcome home."

In Christ,
jon walton

I Love You.

2009-09-21T05:49:00.001-07:00

How often do you tell the people around you that they matter to you? Did you tell your wife/husband that you love them and kiss them goodbye before you left for work? Did you hug your children before they went to school? Did you call your parents to let them know you still care about them?

Think about this: If no one said "I love you" to you today, would it matter?

God has put each of us in a position to love someone. To let someone know that we care. To show others that they matter, that they have significance. Encourage and comfort someone today.

Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words.
1 Thessalonians 4:18

In Christ,
jon walton

Master...

2009-09-06T05:01:00.000-07:00

I think it is odd that words have such profound effects on how we respond to different situations. For example, if someone refers to something as junk, it is typically not taken care of as well. However that same object to someone else can be referred to as their prized possession, and it is cared for with utter concern. So here is my question: How do we treat people when we refer to them with words with meaningless connotations, verses referring to the same people with words that give them significance? How would you change the tone of your voice when talking to or about that person who is a Veteran who fought in 2 wars for the freedom of our country, not "that homeless guy sitting against the building?" How would you change your actions when you talk to or about that girl who has given so much time volunteering for the community, giving of herself and thinking of others instead of "that girl who got pregnant by mistake?" How would you think about that person when you refer to them as that person who needs Jesus Christ in their life, not "that drunk?"
Allow me to give a personal example. A few weeks ago, pastor Rick talked about how the word "Lord" really means "Master." It got me thinking about how when we say "Lord" for many of us it doesn't mean "Master." So, I began praying "Master" instead of "Lord." It changed my prayer life. Instead of praying to Jesus Christ and giving a shopping list, (Lord, please give me this; Lord, please do this for me today; etc) I would suddenly realize my place. Slave of Jesus Christ. He is the one in control, I am the servant.
So how do you refer to people? To friends? To your spouse? To your Master?

Slave of Jesus Christ,
jon walton

Praying Where?

2009-08-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Do you have a favorite place to pray? Somewhere you can go and just be still before Jesus Christ? I think in our culture of rush, rush, rush, go, go, go, and get it done fast, we have forgotten how imperative it is to spend time with Christ. Just Christ. Not saying a prayer so others can hear, not having fellowship with other believers, not even witnessing to people who don't know Jesus, but just spending time with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Most people, whether they have a relationship with Jesus or not, look at me weird when I tell them where one of my favorite places to pray is the shower. That's right. Now you are making that face that so many others have made. When I thought about it, I wanted to determine why it is one of my favorite places to meet with the one true God.

1. It is secluded. I am all by myself in the shower. There is no one asking me questions, no one demanding that I do anything, no one talking to me. I am simply there with God.
2. It is quiet. Well, not like pin drop silence, there is the water running. However that water running drowns out any noise that is happening outside the walls of the shower. I can hear my thoughts. I can hear my God.
3. There are no video games in the shower. No computers. No tv. No books. No phones(or iPhones). No distractions.
4. Finally, I am naked before God. Ok, take a second and get the creepies out of your head. Now, I know what this sounds like, but the more I thought about it the more it makes sense. God doesn't see us the way we see each other. In fact, God doesn't see our clothes when He looks at us anyway. He doesn't see what we are driving or our house. God sees our heart. Being totally naked before God, being vulnerable, exposed, not hiding behind anything, is probably as close to us understanding how He sees us as we can get.

But when you pray, go into your private room, shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
-Matthew 6:6

So where do you pray? Where is your favorite place? I would love to hear it! (and I won't tell anyone. Trust me, I know the looks you can get...)

In Christ,
jon walton
jon@crossroadsnewport.com

Teachable Moments...

2009-08-14T05:34:00.000-07:00

Now, this may come as a shock, but I truly love my son. No, really! In fact, often times he is the inspiration for this blog. Its true.
Yesterday morning as we were walking out the door, Isaiah presented me with a question that offered a wonderful teaching moment for him. Now, through the wonderful marvels of the internet, here is our conversation with his words in Green, mine in Blue.

"Why do we have to go places?"
"Well, I have to go to work, and you have to go to Mamaw's because you can't stay here by yourself."
"But why do you have to go to work, dad?"
"Well, I need to make money so you and mommy can have food, and clothes, and so we can pay for our house."

Now, this is where the conversation gets really interesting. You see, Isaiah had just recently asked for a Wii Game(Mario Kart Wii actually, very fun game). We told him he could ask for it for his birthday or Christmas, but it was just too much right now. Something I always look for is "teachable moments." Those little times when through experience I can help Isaiah learn. I saw this as one of those times. I told him if he wanted to do extra chores around the house and for his grandmother(mamaw) we would pay him for it. ($2 for laundry or dishes, small things like that). We explained that the money would be his and when he had saved enough, he could buy the game. The extra chores were completely optional, but were in excess of his regular chores. The awesome thing is he did it. He worked hard, saved his money and got the game. He understood that he had worked for the money to get the game. Now, back to the conversation. His next response was in reflection of this lesson.

"But dad, if you go to work and you work, that's your money."

Wow. Thank you Lord for another teachable moment with my son.

"Yes, I guess you're right son. But I give my money to you and mommy because I love you both."
He just stood there and looked at me a moment.
"Buddy, can you go to work and make money?"
"No, I'm too little."
"That's right, so if I didn't give my money to you, would you have food?"
"No."
"Clothes?"
"No."
"Toys?"
"No."
"I give you and mommy my money to get those things because I love you guys very much."
He looked up, smiled at me, and grabbed my leg hugging me. I knelt down and hugged him back.
"Thank you, daddy"

Are you showing others that you love them? Its more than words. Its more than saying it. Its giving them what belongs to you.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
-John 3:16

In Christ,
jon walton

What Would Spill Out of You?

2009-07-29T11:44:00.000-07:00

We all run into people from time to time that through some simple act completely infuriate us. You know the person I am talking about. That guy that smarted off to you at the wrong time. That drama queen who, just because you mentioned something was out of place, feels the need to go off on you and make sure everyone in a 5 mile radius knows you are the one who is really causing all the problems. That know it all who always corrects you when you don't need it. I think you understand what I'm talking about.

One such instance happened where I work recently. Someone was having a bad day for whatever reason and when asked a question, he quipped back with a snarky remark. The person he addressed had every right to lash out back at him, but instead did something different. This lady came in with not one, but two breakfast pizza's the next day, bought out of her pocket. One for everyone in our department, and one for everyone in the other department where the gentleman who took his frustrations out on her. She responded to harshness with love.

Dr. Dean Haun made this comment once, "We are all cups with some liquid in us. At some point, we are going to be bumped and what is inside, whether it is good or bad, is going to spill out. What would spill out of you?" It is so easy to lash out when we are bumped. It is our natural reaction, but as Paul writes in Colossians 3:13, that should not be our response as followers of Jesus Christ.

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

In Christ,
jon walton

Getting Excited...

2009-07-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

I am getting excited about several things this fall. Skillet and The David Crowder Band both have new CD's coming out, there is a new video game coming out that I am really looking forward to, and in just a little over a week we are having a Back to School Party in The Reckoning (our Youth Group) that will be a lot of fun. Now, I am not an emotional guy. Sure, I get loud and have a lot of fun, but I don't typically get excited and all giddy. However, I have been getting that way lately, but not for any of the things I just mentioned.

Pastor Rick has been going through the book of Revelation(That's the one in the back, heh). He is doing an incredible job conveying the Word of God and I have been reading it intently. I have to say, I'm getting excited for Christ's return. Gidddy excited. I mean I am giggling a little as I write this thinking about it!

You see, I know that when it is all said and done, I get to be with my Savior forever. I know I will be in a place of peace. I know that I will have incredible joy. I know that I will have no pain, heartache, or fear ever again. I know others who will be there. I am really excited about it!

What I am not exctied about is the realization of how many people are daily turning away Jesus. Because for them when it is all said and done, they won't be in a place of peace. For them, who refuse to accept the Truth, they will be tormented forever. I thougth of that today and man, talk about putting things in perspective!

"Jesus, give me the opportunity to share about you with someone today. Let me find someone who needs You. Let me be bold in sharing how great You are. Let me share Your Love with them. And I pray now that You would soften thier heart, that You would prepair them to hear and accept the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus, get me excited."

In Christ,
jon walton

I Only Did It Because I Love You...

2009-07-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if you have heard of this group called Family Force Five, but if you haven't, here's a little taste. Take it all in.

There ya go. Now here's the thing, you may have just watched that (or even just part of it) and decided "There's no way that's Christian music!" Fact is, it may not be "Worship Music" but they are all Christians having fun. You won't find any cussing in their lyrics, you won't find worship to Satan in their music, and they give glory to God for their success. What you may have to come to terms with is this type of music isn't for you. Shouldn't be that hard to decide.

We saw them at Spiritsong and while I admit I'm not a big fan, many of the youth are. While watching them on stage, I was just standing and enduring. One of the youth caught my attention and laughed at me as they rocked out and I just stood. "This just isn't your thing, is it?" they screamed so I could hear. "No, but it is yours." I shouted back. I took them there and watched that with them because I love them!

We do all kinds of things for people we love. Things we may not want to do. We clean the house when family is coming over, we go places we rather wouldn't, we hold back things we want to say. All because we love them. Jesus loves us. He did lots of things I'm sure He would have rather not done. His life on Earth wasn't pleasant, it was hard. His death was horrific. But He did it for us, out of choice, because He loves us. (Romans 5:8)

I hope you know today that Jesus Christ loves you. No matter where you are in life, what you have done, what you are going through, Jesus loves you. So much, he paid a debt for you whether you wanted Him to or not. Take a moment today and let that sink in. Jesus loves you.

In Christ,
jon walton

How Much Is Enough?

2009-07-15T12:16:00.000-07:00

One of the things I always do when we go somewhere like a concert or show, whether it is with the youth group or personal, is look around at the people and watch for a moment. You should try it sometime, you see some interesting stuff. At many youth events you can see parents who even though they can't stand the music being played, they have made the trip so their children may enjoy it. You can see the kids who were drug along for the ride and would rather be home than there. You can see that crazy fan who is screaming at the top of their lungs when their favorite band comes on and begins jumping, raising their hands, ANYTHING to get some attention. It is always interesting what you can see.

While at Spiritsong, one of these events, I was looking at the audience. As I was panning the crowd, I saw something that made me freeze. Close to the back sat a mentally handicapped man who, while even though full grown in body, was not mentally. What caught my attention to him was not his handicap though, it was him as a person. As he sat there near the back he waved a light stick, clapped along with every song, from time to time raised his hands in worship, and smiled the entire time. He was truly more than content, he was overjoyed. Nothing in the world mattered to him except for the fact that he was listening to great music and praising God.

It took so little to please him, yet I was concerned with us having to walk a short distance to the park each day. I was concerned with our seats not being good enough(though we were at least 20 in front of this man). I was concerned with so much that didn't matter. "How much is enough?" I asked myself.

Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.

-Hebrews 13:5

Are you content? Do you have "enough"?

In Christ,
jon walton

My Favorite was... (Version 2)

2009-07-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

Preface: I know, I know. Its been nearly a month since I've wrote anything, I'm sorry. Tell you what, I'll blog 3 times this week. I know! It's unheard of! (From me anyway, Pastor Rick sometimes hits 3 in a day!)

We just went to Disney World for a family vacation. It was a trip primarily for our son, Isaiah. We had a great time and on the ride home we asked the question that always interests me, "Isaiah, what was your favorite part?" His reply was "The Peter Pan ride!" Now, what is so interesting about this is that he had never heard of Peter Pan prior to this trip. For some reason, he loved it. In fact, before we left we had to find Peter Pan and Wendy so he could get his picture made with them!

We just got back from Spiritsong Sunday morning (about 1:45 am!) and on the ride home while most people in my car was asleep, I was thinking of my favorite part, Abbie & Josh. The two students I asked to pray about doing devotions for us. I have to say, they both did absolutely incredible.

Abbie spoke about keeping our faith real and challenged us not to be luke warm in our service to Jesus. She read Revelation 3:15-16 - I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of My mouth. She made this statement: "I don't understand how someone who has a relationship with Jesus can be cold or luke warm." For those of us who have one, it is confusing. People who don't have a real relationship don't know what they are missing. She then challenged everyone to live thier lives 100% for the Lord. That'll preach!

Josh spoke about something we all to commonly deal with, jealousy. He read Psalm 37:4 - Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart's desires. He talked about how he struggled with seeing something someone else has and wanting it for himself, even to the point of driving him to anger. Then he told the group how that verse has helped him. How he is doing his best to delight in the Lord, and how he trusts that the Lord will give him his desires. That's living all in!

Why were these my favorite parts? Because I am getting to see some of my youth grow in Jesus. These were my favorite parts because they not only grew closer to Christ through doing the devotional, they helped others in our group get closer to Christ by teaching them. Better than Diamondback by a long shot!

In Christ,
jon walton

P.S. Thanks Abbie and Josh!

What If No One Showed Up?

2009-06-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

If you were to go to church Sunday and were the only one there, what would you do? Would you say, "Well, I'll just go home" or "There is no point in me being here by myself"? If you went to a worship event and no one else came, would you still worship?
The answer all lies with why you were coming in the first place. Who is this "church" thing for? You? Did you come expecting to get, or give?
Where is the focus? And this extends outside of "church" (the meeting on Sunday morning). Who is today about? Who is your life about?

Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wants to come with Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of Me will find it. What will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of His Father, and then He will reward each according to what he has done.

- Matthew 16:24-27

Jesus is who it is all about, and grabbing that mind set is the key to worshiping, serving, and glorifying Jesus even if no one shows up.

In Christ,
jon walton

Encouragement...

2009-06-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

Sunday, I was pulled aside by someone at church who gave me a lot of encouragement. She told me how much she appreciated what I did at the church, the impact I was having on the lives of the youth, and how I just seemed committed to what God has called me to. I can't tell you how much that helped.

Open honesty time: We all wonder at some point if what we are doing is making a difference. For those of us who know Jesus Christ and have accepted Him as our Savior, we want to know that our work is bringing Him glory. Even those who do not know Christ still want to feel needed or important. They want to know what they are doing matters somewhere! Everyone wants to have a sense of self worth. This encouragement came at one of those times for me.

We just finished a series on dating with the youth and that is a favorite topic for them, right? At the end I couldn't help but wonder if any of them really "got it." I needed that encouragement. I have no doubt that God sent her to me. God knows when we need to be lifted up and He knows how to do it whether it be directly from Him or from one of His servants.

So, here is my challenge to you: Encourage those around you. God set this challenge to you as well:

No rotten talk should come from your mouth, but only what is good for the building up of someone in need, in order to give grace to those who hear.

-Ephesians 4:29

Take a moment to examine your day. Do your words and actions encourage and build up, or do they discourage and tear down? Make an effort to be an encouragement to all around you. You never know just how much it may help someone.

In Christ,
jon walton

The Parable of the Snooze Button...

2009-05-28T05:53:00.000-07:00

There was a man who had trouble waking up in the morning. He decided that he needed something to wake him up, otherwise he would keep oversleeping. The man decided the best course of action would be to buy an alarm clock. The alarm clock worked very well for a while. When the alarm would go off in the morning, the man would rise, turn off the waking sound and begin to get ready for the day. For quite some time, the man was not late and had plenty of time to get ready in the mornings.

Now, it came to pass that one day the man discovered a feature on the alarm clock he had not seen before. The largest button on the clock labeled "snooze." The man pressed it, but nothing happened. The next morning as the clock was ringing its tone to wake him, the man hit the "snooze" button on accident. The alarm stopped but only for nine minutes. The alarm then began to buzz. The man realized what this button was and decided to take full advantage of such a wonderful innovation. He began using the "snooze" button each morning to catch just a few more minutes of sleep. He even discovered the "snooze" button could be used more than once. If he felt he needed it, he could press the "snooze" button multiple times to get more sleep. The man's son saw him using the "snooze" button and soon learned to use it as well, even as young as four years old.

As time progressed, the man began to realize that he was beginning to be late again. Late to work, late to rise on weekends, and late to other morning events. Some mornings, its seemed as if the alarm didn't even buzz to wake him. On one morning, the man woke with his son asleep next to him in bed, when he looked at the time, he realized that he had overslept and was now late by 3 hours! Frustrated he checked the alarm clock to realize that it was in fact on and working. His son awoke and noticed the man looking at the clock. "I hit the "snooze" button for you, daddy" the man's son replied. The man knew then, if he were to not be late, he must stop using the "snooze" button.

What are you hitting the "snooze" button on? We do it all the time. "Not now God, I need to finish this first." "Not yet God, I don't think I am ready." "Maybe in a few years God, but I have too much going on right now." We even teach people to do it for us. "I think you should wait, I mean did God really say now?"

Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will travel to such and such a city and spend a year there and do business and make a profit." You don't even know what tomorrow will bring—what your life will be! For you are a bit of smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes.

-James 4:13-14

Stop hitting the "snooze" button...

In Christ,
jon walton

I Still Need Work...

2009-05-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

The more I teach the youth, the more I realize that I still need work. I'm not perfect. I don't have all the answers. I don't understand every principle in the Bible. I still have struggles. I still fail. My dad had a saying that I have adopted: "The more I learn, the more I realize just how little I know." Oh how true that is.

It is for these reasons I am so thankful for God. It is these reminders that tell me its really not me, its God.

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. - 2 Cor. 12:9

"Lord Jesus, thank You for who You are. Thank You for choosing to use those of us who don't have it all together. May Your Name be glorified by my life. Thank You for not giving up on me. Teach me Your ways and help me apply them to my life. Do this even when I don't like it. Amen"

In Christ,
jon walton

Setting Lightning Free...

2009-05-15T04:53:00.000-07:00

Graduation is just around the corner for many students. Our youth group is no different, we have six graduating at the end of this month. I count it an honor that these guys have allowed me to pour into their lives since I have been the youth pastor the past year and a half. Each of them have grown spiritually, matured mentally, and are getting ready to step out of childhood and into adulthood.

We had a pet turtle at one time, but he outgrew his tank we had at the house. We talked about getting a larger tank, but they were so expensive and we knew we couldn't afford it. Our biggest concern was trying to explain this to our 4 year old son who had named him "Lightning." (A fitting name for a turtle, right?) Then I remembered the pond on the back of our farm. So my wife and I decided to explain to our son that we were setting Lightning free to live in the pond where he will be happy. Our son was actually happy to do so. The next Saturday, we loaded up Lighting on the 4-wheeler, drove down to the pond, and placed Lightning at the edge of the pond. He sat there only a second, then proceeded to bury himself in the mud at the edge of the water. My son looked at where Lightning had gone and asked, "Where did Lightning go?" I told my son, "Well buddy, this pond is pretty big compared to Lightning's tank. He's probably a little scared so he is hiding." My son, still looking at the muddy spot in the water where Lightning buried himself said, "It'll be ok Lightning."

Remember our Graduates who are about to step out into the "pond." It's a lot bigger than the "tank" they have been living in. Pray that they don't bury themselves in the mud at the edge, but that they swim freely and boldly, not forgetting the foundation that has been laid in their lives.

"You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven."

-Matthew 5:14-16

In Christ,
jon walton

Its A Choice...

2009-05-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

Please pray for Megan Maxwell. She has been missing nearly 2 weeks now. Pray for her family.

Its difficult. I was talking with a friend who had lost a sister from a car accident with a drunk driver. He told me after that, he became so bitter and angry with God. At one point, he looked up to God and said, "If you are real, I hate you! What good can come of this?" He stayed bitter for over a year. Then, while visiting the friend of his sister, it happened. He question got answered in a profound way. This friend asked him, "What does it mean to be a Christian? To know Christ?" He had the opportunity to share the gospel with this woman, and she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior!

As we talked, he said "I didn't want to praise God when my sister died." The truth is, non of us do. It is not a "natural" reaction. We want to focus on the problem. We want to try and "fix" it. When we can't, we feel helpless. Useless. We want to give up and loose hope. However, this is not what the Bible teaches us to do. Look at how Psalm 69 begins:

Save me, God, for the water has risen to my neck. I have sunk in deep mud, and there is no footing; I have come into deep waters, and a flood sweeps over me. I am weary from my crying; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God.

It is clear that the author, David, is hurting. As he cries out to God, he even says it seems as though he can not find God. He goes on to talk about all those against him, those who hate him without cause. David's reaction is to focus on the problem. Yet later in verses 29-30, David demonstrates what we should do:

But as for me—poor and in pain—let Your salvation protect me, God. I will praise God's name with song and exalt Him with thanksgiving.

Its not easy, but it is what we should do. This is perfectly stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Give thanks in everything, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

We don't always understand God's plan, but one thing we can always understand and lean on is that He HAS a plan. Trust it. Even in our darkest hour.

In Christ,
jon walton

My Favorite was...

2009-04-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

Sunday after church, Missy, Isaiah and I all went to Dollywood. One thing about Isaiah, he is not one to very willingly step out of his comfort zone and try new things. For the most part, he likes to do things he KNOWS will be fun and KNOWS all about. Something new is scary. It is, by its very nature, unknown. He is now tall enough to ride the "Veggie Tales Roller Coaster" which is, by any adult's standards, anything but scary. I pointed to it and said, "Hey buddy, lets go ride that."
"NO! I don't want to!" He exclaimed back with all the power he could muster from his 38 lb. body.
"Why not?" I asked.
"Its too scary!" He said.
"Come on buddy, it will be fun!" I said as I picked him up so he could get a better look. "It goes up and down, spins a little and doesn't go that fast. You'll like it!"
"No, I won't!" Isaiah insisted with all assurance as if he had just been given a prophetic word from God.
I hugged him and said, "Come on buddy, I'll ride it with you, ok?"
He looked at the small, multicolored coaster on its curvy purple track, then at me, then back at the coaster. It wasn't an enthusiastic "YES," but it was enough for me to start getting in line.
As we waited at the gate to go in, Isaiah, now standing in front of me, looked up at me with his brown eyes and said, "Daddy, will you hold me tight?" Smiling and reassuring him I said, "Absolutely." As it came our turn I put Isaiah in the car first, then I squeezed in beside him. Let me tell you right now, the cars on the Veggie Tales Roller Coaster are NOT designed for a 6' man. My legs cramped as my knees were shoved into the metal front of the car and the lap bar was forced by an attendant to my lap as it scrubbed down the tops of my legs thus pulling every hair from the top of my leg through my shorts. As the ride started, I put my arm around my son and held onto him. At the first drop, he laughed and yelled, "This is fun!"
At the end of the day, Missy asked Isaiah, "What was your favorite part of today?"
"My favorite was The Veggie Tales Roller Coaster! And I wasn't even scared!" He exclaimed proudly.

Its odd, isn't it? There are things out Father God may ask us to do, yet we say "No! I don't want to!" Why? So often we forget that God is not asking us to do anything alone, but that He will be right beside us(Heb. 13:5-6). And what are we missing out on by NOT doing what God has asked? He knows what He desires to accomplish in our lives. It's time we start letting him. He will hold us tight. Who knows, we could miss out on our "favorite thing."

In Christ,
jon walton

P.S. Please continue to pray for Megan Maxwell. As of 11:45 am this morning, they still had not heard anything.

Weight Bench...

2009-04-22T06:39:00.000-07:00

I talk to my big brother almost everyday on the ride home. Either I call him or he calls me and our conversations are about everything and anything. We have been through a lot together, from some difficult years growing up, him going to the army, me becoming a Youth Pastor, to what ever we will talk about today.
When I called him yesterday, I asked "What are you doing?" "Building a weight bench." He replied. Now, this may come as a shock to some of you, but I am a bit of a smart-alec...
"What are you 'waiting' on?" I replied. I won't give you his response....

I was recalling this conversation this morning and it got me thinking, "What am I waiting on?" Am I really seeking the will of Jesus in my life, or am I just getting by? Am I waking up in the morning excited about what God has in store for me today, or am I dreading getting out of the bed? Am I actively seeking to live a life honoring to God, or to myself?

Now don't get me wrong, we do need to wait on the Lord's instruction. If we try to do anything by ourselves, it will fail. We also can't start doing our own thing then ask God to bless it. How about we start doing what God wants us to and EXPECT Him to bless it? And while we are "waiting" for Jesus to tell us what we need to be doing, why don't we prepare for what He has next?

"Jesus, help me this day see what you have in store for me. I don't want to wait, I want to be active in Your work. I will pray to get ready. I will study Your Word to get ready. I will worship you to get ready. I don't want to wait, I want to live for You. Amen."

In Christ,
jon walton

Wanna contact me? Send me an e-mail! jon@crossroadsnewport.com

Don't Kiss My Staples...

2009-04-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday I had a new experience, for the first time I rushed my son to the emergency room. It would seem that while pretending to be Spiderman on my mother-in-law's porch swing, he fell off and hit his head on one of those old school metal Tonka trucks. He is ok, but he wound up getting 2 staples in the back of his little head and a lot of petting from his mom and dad.

Later that night as we were going through our nightly rutine of memory verses, prayer, and goodnight kisses he looked at us and said, "Don't kiss my staples..." Now, at first I thought they were hurting him and he simply didn't want me to touch them, so I responded, "Ok buddy, I won't." His next response almost brought tears to my eyes...

"Yeah, cause they might hurt your lips."

Wow. He had just that day fell off the swing, hurt his head, had a scary time at the emergency room and had forgin objects in his head, yet he is more concerned about us hurting ourselves than it hurting him. He so wonderfully displayed exactly what Paul was writing to the Philipians:

Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not [only] for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. - Philipians 2:4-5 (HCB)

How often we forget this simple, yet powerful teaching. How about you? Are you considering others more important than yourself?

In Christ,
jon walton.

Altar Prayer...

2009-03-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I had the opportunity to visit a different church. At one point in the service, the pastor called for everyone who would to come forward for "Altar Prayer." For those who may be reading this and don't know what exactly I am talking about, allow me to take a moment and explain. It is truly a wonderful thing.

It is a time when anyone who wants comes forward, usually just after the opening worship songs, and gives prayer requests. Everyone stands there huddled around the Altar, usually a wooden table with the words "This do in remembrance of Me" written on it. After prayer requests are given, someone is called on to "lead" the prayer. Everyone kneels at the Altar of the Lord and waits for the person called on to begin praying. When they do, everyone begins to pray. Out loud. When the prayer time is over, the last person praying simply says, "Amen" and everyone gets up, goes back to their seats, and the service proceeds. Altar Prayer usually happens in what many refer to as "Traditional" or "Old Fashion" churches, but some still observe this time.

When I got to experience this again, I took a moment and just allowed the Lord to speak in the mist of everyone else praying. Almost the entire church kneeling before Jesus, lifting up each other, the lost, the sick and others in prayer. All these people saying what each needed to say to Jesus. Some praising. Some praying for themselves. Pretty much all out loud. It was incredible.

Now, I know you can pray anywhere. I know Jesus is always listening. I also know that it is a blessing to me to hear others pray in the name of Jesus Christ. I know that it is powerful when multiple people come together in prayer. In the book of Revelations, the Bible describes the prayers of the saints as "gold bowls filled with incense." (Rev. 5:8) Since that is the case, this must have been a wonderful, refreshing smell to God.

In Christ,

jon walton

Little Reminders...

2009-03-17T09:14:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading through Leviticus and there is a phrase that keeps coming up. Throughout Leviticus, God is telling Moses what to tell the Hebrew people what they need to do, and what not to do, in order to be Holy. After almost every command, God says, "I am the LORD." This struck me as odd. Why does God keep saying this? He continues to say it over and over. Is Moses that forgetful? This is God Almighty talking to him, how can he be forgetting who this is?

I wanted to see why God said this over and over. In the original Hebrew, the word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh." Yahweh is the most personal name God gives Himself in the Old Testament. It is the name God gave to Moses when setting up the covenant with the Hebrews. It is an intimate name. What does this mean? It means that it is at this point that God is revealing more of Himself to His chosen people. It means God is drawing the people of Israel into a PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP with Him.

So, again, why does God repeatedly say, "I am the LORD(Yahweh)?" If you think about it with that name in place, Yahweh, and with what He is telling Moses and the Hebrews, this is what you must do or not do to be Holy, it is as if God is telling His people, "I want to be your personal, intimate God. I want a relationship with you. I want to be the most important thing in your life because I know everything. I know where you are going, where you have been. I know what will make you happy, I know what will make you miserable. I know what will give your life meaning and fulfillment, I know what will destroy you and make you hollow. I LOVE YOU. I want the best for you. I am the LORD. Yahweh. Your personal, intimate, caring, loving, involved, active, perusing, never failing, always faithful God. I will not dwell where sin is. I will not work where the people refuse me. I do not force myself on anyone. Here is how to be Holy. It is for your benefit. Do this, so that I may have an intimate relationship with you, my people. I am the LORD."

It's as if God is sending these little reminders to the Hebrews. He doesn't want them to forget who He is and that He wants the best for them and to be with them.

God wants this for us, too. In fact, God wants this so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to cover our sins. God can not dwell in the lives of people who are full of sin(Hab. 1:13). God saw that people could not live perfect, holy lives. He saw that we would have sin in our lives. That we needed a savior. That's why Jesus was sent here. So that God, through the sacrifice of the perfect Lamb that covers our sin(Rom. 3:24-25), could have an intimate relationship with us.

So what little reminders is God sending your way? Are you listening?

In Christ,
jon walton

Prepare...

2009-03-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

This Friday night, two of my best friends are coming in from KY to just hang out and spend some time together. I can't wait! I have been excited about it since we talked about it a couple of weeks ago. However, with people coming to our house, that means we need to "prepare" some things...

We have cleaned like crazy the past couple of days. The living room, bedrooms, counters, outside, the fish tank, just about everything in our house. And there is more besides cleaning, Missy, my wonderful bride, has been cooking already. She made a wonderful looking cheesecake that I can't touch till they get here, she has been going though recipe books to find just the right meals, and she has still kept up all the general housework like laundry and dishes while working a full time job.(Man I love her!) Isaiah, our 4 year old son, has been preparing too. He has told me about how he is going to show all his cars to them when they get here.

So all this got me thinking. This is my best friend coming in and I am spending all this time "preparing" to be with him and his wife(Who is a great friend too), but how much time do I prepare myself to come before Jesus Christ, my Lord? Do you prepare before you enter into prayer time? Bible study time? I think one of the great things about Jesus is, I don't have to prepare to be with Him. He is ready to spend time with me whenever I will. However, out of respect to Him, I want to prepare. I want to be in the right mind set when I come before my Lord. I want to be sure that I am not coming into the throne room disrespectful. He deserves all glory, honor, and praise. I want to be prepared to give it to Him.

In Christ,
jon walton