Have you seen the new Karate Kid movie?

"Everything is kung fu."

That is my favorite line in the movie.  It helps to know the context.  First, Mr. Han said, "I will teach you real kung fu."  Then a short time later he described kung fu when he said, "Kung fu lives in how we put on the jacket, lives in how we treat people. Everything is kung fu."

The "real" kung fu that Mr. Han was trying to teach was a way of life, not just self-defense training.  Isn't that the way Christianity should be?  A way of life.  Too many people try to compartmentalize Christianity.  Christianity is everything.  It is how we live every day.  It is how we dress.  It is definitely how we treat people.

Have you separated your spirituality from the rest of your life?  Or have you integrated your faith into everything your do?  If not, start today!

"Everything is Christianity."

The Importance of Children

Matthew 19:13-15 (NIV) Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.

What did Jesus say?  "Let the little children come to me."  Jesus invited the children.  Jesus welcomed children.  Jesus took time for children.  

What does this say about "little children"?  Apparently, they are important to the Son of God.  They are not secondary citizens in the kingdom of heaven.  In fact, He also said that "the kingdom of heaven belongs" to those that are like children.

I have a saying:  "Children are not the church of tomorrow. They are an important part of the church of TODAY, and they are the church leaders of tomorrow."

Whether you are a parent or not, children are important.  And not just your own children, but ALL children.  As you have the opportunity, reach out to children.  Show them God's love!

--Pastor Ken

Character Qualities for Christians

In his epistle (which is simply a letter from an apostle) to Titus, Paul writes about the character qualities of a minister. Titus is supposed appoint spiritual leaders from among the churches in Crete. These new "pastors" will be chosen from among the Christians. They did not have seminaries or Bible colleges in the first century so pastors were "home-grown".

How many people in churches today would meet the requirements that Paul gave to Titus? Do you measure up? These qualities are often required of pastors or other spiritual leaders, and right so. But all believers should make it their goal to live up to these "minimum" standards.

Titus 1:6-9 (NLT)

must be well thought of for his good life

must be faithful to his wife, 

his children must be believers who are not wild or rebellious

must live a blameless life

not arrogant

not quick-tempered

not a heavy drinker

not violent

not greedy for money

must enjoy having guests in his home

must love all that is good

must live wisely

be fair

must live a devout and disciplined life

must have a strong and steadfast belief in the trustworthy message he was taught

Let Jesus Christ be in control of every aspect of your life!

--Pastor Ken