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A Terrible Prayer

by Mike Yaconelli

I have always been terrible at praying

I forget

My mind wanders

I fall asleep

I don't pray enough

I don't understand what prayer is

Or what prayer does.

If prayer were school...

I would flunk praying.

But prayer isn't school.

It is mystery.

Maybe the mystery is...

Jesus loves terrible prayers.

Maybe...

When I can't think of anything to say,

He says what I can't say.

When I talk too much,

He cherishes my too-many words.

When I fall asleep,

He holds me in His lap and caresses my weary soul.

When I am overwhelmed with guilt

at my inconsistent, inadequate praying

He whispers, "Your name is always on My lips."

I am filled with gratitude, my soul overflows with thankfulness and I...

I...find myself saying over and over again, "Thank You."

Praying the mystery.

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Broken

It is interesting...and ironically appropriate that yesterdays blog post was on "compassion". Little did we know that a huge earthquake was about to hit Haiti. Truth and bible trivia is not what's needed...but compassion is the answer. A call for the people of Haiti to suck it up and buckle down and be 'committed'...isn't gonna do anything but burden a weary and wounded people. But compassion my friends, is the call of the day...weeks...months...years. Perhaps it's the eternal call from the heart of God that we all to often forget or ignore. In Haiti, we see an already poor and downtrodden country...this earthquake has devastated an already devastated people. I hear of many believers, even leaders assessing the situation with their bible knowledge and attempts to determine the "why" and "how comes" of this situation. Why waste our time on that? Why try to determine the mystery of all this...rather than tackle the reality? Isn't it sad that it takes war for us to cry out for "peace". That it takes disease for us to cry out for "healing". That is takes failure for us to cry out for "mercy". And in this case, it takes tragedy upon the innocent, for us to become "compassion". It's sad it is that way...but maybe that is also why? The reality is hundreds of thousands of hurting people... already poor...diseased...and at risk...are now in an absolutely destitute circumstance. Bible knowledge and church commitment is not the answer...but compassion is! Jesus with skin on is what we are called to be! Too often the not-yet-believing world understands compassion better than we, the "believer", do...that should not be. At ECHO, we pray for and applaud those followers of Jesus who, with hearts broken with compassion, are doing whatever they can to assist the Haitian people...and we applaud those who are not-yet-believers who are allowing the compassionate heart of God to ooze out of their lives to others...even if they don't know it as being that. It is a very godly thing regardless...even if they just see it as 'doing the right thing'. The resaon it feels like you are "doing the right thing"...is because it is...compassion says so! And that is the very heart of Jesus!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Brilliant

Have you ever been overtaken by the beauty of creation? Have you ever been in awe of God's brilliance? When you look at nature and the intricacies of how things function in creations systems...be it weather...animal kingdom...or plant life...or within our oceans or outer space...it is absolutely mind numbingly obvious that God's ways are far, far beyond our ways!!! At ECHO we are so thankful that God graciously gave us His love letter (scripture) so that we may explore His love in action...experience it personally...and then see how we can learn to express it to others. His brilliance is so beyond my thinking and my ways. It's as if nature is a constant God reminder to us "know-it-all" humans, to not miss out on partnering with His genius. His way really works...if we trust Him. It really is better than what we try to cook up on our own. Most of what we do in "ourselves", creates more problems for us and others, than we care to admit. For instance, I read recently only 10% of people respond to the challenge of "commitment"...the challenge to signup and join us! Only the already "committed" commit to be more committed! LOL. Yet, we, often in church circles, challenge people to be "committed"...get on board...join the cause...be here every time the doors are open...read your assigned bible reading every day...give financially as we ask...and volunteer to do what we need you to do!!! Because a "few" respond to this...we assume "all" will. But recent history has shown that most don't respond to this at all...in fact they feel pressured or even manipulated by it. It actually pushes more away than it attracts. Yet we persist? huh? Even more interesting is that hardly anyone responds to "reason". Most cannot be convinced you are right, and they are wrong. Most believe what they want to believe regardless. Isn't that interesting...in church circles we often focus on people "knowing lots of bible stuff"...cause if they get the right info, they'll believe. Well that hasn't worked too well has it? There is more bible info published in virtually every creative form known to man kind...yet a smaller percentage of the population believes today than ever. Perhaps our "brilliance" is not sufficient? But as we look at Jesus...who was the Word of God...scripture and truth...in the flesh...you rarely see Jesus use reason to pound people into biblical submission. In fact, He usually only used it to humble the religious "know-it-all's" who "knew the scriptures well...but not the One who it was speaking about"...Jesus Himself, hello! What we don't see Him doing is demanding people commit to a cause or a club...but, rather, to enter into a relationship. Jesus invites those He meets to discover who He really is...and follow. Not coercive...but in relationship...by choice...not pressure or manipulation. So what then? Have we been doing this church thing wrong all these years? What's the answer? Well, a huge stat jumped out of this study...something Jesus people should not just know...but live... 90% of people do respond to "compassion"!!! What we do see in Jesus...consistently... over and over...was compassion. He cares for the downtrodden...the widow...the orphan...the guilty...the outcast...the sick...the hungry. His heart of compassion drew huge crowds. His teaching was so unlike the know-it-all teachers of the day...His words oozed grace...mercy...forgiveness...love...compassion. It didn't demand...it accepted. It didn't judge...it forgave. It didn't beat down...it lifted up. It spoke of another chance...an opportunity to get back up. At ECHO, we hope to be a group of Jesus followers that is known for compassion...as Jesus was. Yes, there are times when loving instruction from scripture is helpful and needed...but its done in love. Yes, there is the encouragement to press on and not give up...but its done in grace, mercy & forgiveness...not as a demand or some kind of performance thing. If 90% of people respond to compassion (as the study suggests), then maybe Jesus was onto something...How brilliant is that!?

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Boxing Day

OK, in the aftermath of Christmas bliss, does anyone know what's up with "Boxing Day"? How weird...we celebrate "boxing" the day after Christmas? Well, at least in Canada and the British Commonwealth they do. Why is the sport of boxing glorified...and if so...why the day after Jesus birthday? Now I'm not a sporting prude of any kind...I get the sport of boxing, as violent as it is to some...so I'm not saying, "boxing sucks"...but why the holiday? Are those beer swilling, hockey brawling Canadians that desperate for another day off work? Whats up with that, and who signed off on it? So I checked a bit on why...and guess what "Boxing Day" ain't what most of us think it is. It's not about "boxing" the sport at all...though we often joke and refer to it as such. It's actually a day firmly rooted in the Great Commandment...in the true Spirit of Christmas. "Boxing Day" was a tradition that took place the day after Christmas...it was a day to give gifts to those less fortunate than you. The more fortunate gave to the less fortunate. Often those items were very practical...clothes, food, tools, cash... usually based on the families needs you were giving to....and they were often put in boxes to be given to those families. Hence the term "boxing day". It was a "loving others as you love yourself" kind of day. After being showered with gifts on Christmas by those that love you...you in turn, took December 26th to give to those with less than you. Wow, how'd we miss this holiday in America? In our churches? It's quite the cool thing really...this "Boxing Day". Somehow we missed the point. It reminds me of how we often miss the point in church circles. Too often we get caught up in building our kingdoms... our churches...our ministries...our legacy...but we miss the main point. Jesus summed it up for us...love God with all you got...and love others as you love yourself...the "point" is relationship...with God and with others. Real, authentic relationships of love, grace, forgiveness, compassion...of being known and of knowing...of doing life together. But somehow we box ourselves into what "church is"...its 2 fast songs and 3 slow songs...announcements and a message...its cool, state of the art performances that are as slick as slick can be (even timed to the minute)...its Walmart greeter type people at the doors saying "hi", but never knowing or caring to really know me...its programs that dazzle...its events that attract the biggest crowds...its buildings built to impress...its eye catching marketing to draw people in...oh ya, and of course we need to work in some kind of small group thing, cause that 'community' thing is popular these days. What? Have we boxed ourselves in? How closed in are we? Because that's what others "do"... are we to do the same? Is that what Jesus really asked us to do? Have we missed the point entirely? "Community" isn't a cool trendy word to put on your website...its the goal. Relationships are not "one of" our programs to attract more people...it is THE "point". It is emphasized throughout scripture...over and over...without love you are not God's...even miracles done without love are meaningless (even annoying)...and lest we forget...even churchey stuff done super well, if done without love, Jesus says, "go away I never knew you". Relationships...real authentic, relationships as God designed...is the point...not a peripheral add on or option. All we do at ECHO gets filtered through this...does it enhance a persons growth in their relationship with Jesus?...and does it create an environment where love grows person to person?...if not, we don't do it. It simply is not what its all about. Some of that stuff can be helpful...but without relationship...it is a waste. So why waste time thinking church is about something it isn't. In the end we look foolish...completely ignorant of the obvious...yet our boxed in viewpoints limit our perspective. Jesus would challenge us to look to the source...look to what He says is vital...if you do, you'll be able to step out of those boxes of "church-ianity" and begin to live life as God intended...a process of loving Him more and more...of receiving His love at a deeper level...and of passing that love on to others, as His Spirit teaches you. At ECHO, we love getting out of the box...how about you?

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Overcome

As the 2010 arrives, we often think of resolutions. Things we can change...hopefully for the better. Lose weight, get a better job, stop smoking, drink less, cuss less, work out more, go back to school, pay off debt...or whatever. They are all usually things we try to muster up the self-discipline to do. Unfortunately, statistics say that most people don't make it to the end of January! I wonder why? Perhaps it is the "self" part of self-discipline. Maybe we lack the ability to "stay the course" when it comes to this thing called "self". As noble as our "resolutions" are, we meltdown within weeks. "Oh well, maybe next year," we say. At ECHO, we applaud those of you trying to make a change, we really do, it's often not easy...that's why we avoid tackling these issues till each New Year comes 'round. But we also know of a God who says He can "be" in us, what we cannot "be" in our own strength. Perhaps this year you will invite Him to "be" in you...what you cannot be otherwise. After all the hardest changes are internal... not external (and they sure can be hard, can't they?). Those internal deep things of the heart and soul...are so hard to understand...and control...and live with. Its often easier to control our actions or appearance...rather than our emotions. Perhaps this year we can work inside out...rather than outside in. At ECHO we encourage you to rest in the love of Jesus and invite Him to "be" those very things your heart & soul long for...and struggle with...in God's love may you overcome in 2010. If you've never asked God to work in your life in this way before...may these words of song be your prayer. May the lyrics of the following medley encourage you as they remind you of God's heart for you... and His desire to work in you!

And I can see that my hands are trembling,

I can see that my legs are weak

I can see that my head is spinning,

but I will overcome

And I know that my heart is hurting,

And I know that my soul it aches

And I know that it seems I'm failing,

but I will overcome, yeah

O Lord I'm strong in You

O Lord I am wise in You

O Lord I can see in You

so I will overcome

O Lord I'm loved by You

O Lord I am free in You

O Lord I'm complete in You

So I will overcome

I will overcome

I will overcome

Oh God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

Oh God, You are my God

And I will ever praise You

I seek You in the morning

And I will learn to walk in Your ways

And step by step You'll lead me

And I will follow You all of my days

And step by step You'll lead me

And I will follow You all of my days

O Lord I'm strong in You

O Lord I'm wise in You

O Lord I can see in You

so I will overcome

O Lord I'm loved by You

O Lord I am free in You

O Lord I'm complete in You

So I will overcome

I will overcome

I will overcome

lyrics "I Will Overcome" by Charlie Hall and "Step by Step" by Rich Mullins,

arrangement by Rick McElmurry

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Gimme Some Christmas

Christmas has become such a selfish endeavor. It all gets started with our "lists", doesn't it? These lists are full of our overly optimistic hopes that someone will invest a ton of money in satisfying our "wants". Now kids are known for quite the optimistic lists...but I've seen adults of all ages fall prey to the very same illusion. I know, I know...its all part of the fun. Make your lists...dream and hope you get the stuff...send it off to "Santa"...and maybe you will get a few...and be disappointed in a few that were missed. But somehow in that "fun" we've lost focus. With all the lights, decorations, yummy food and shopping malls taking priority...are we missing something? Christmas was never about "getting stuff", was it? Yet most of us experience it primarily at that level. That's too bad. Though gift giving and receiving is central to how we celebrate, its not the main point. Ya, I know...this is where a bunch of you go..."oh no, here comes the Christmas is about Jesus birthday guilt trip". "Way to ruin our fun dude!" You may be pleasantly surprised to know that's "not" where this is going (though of course it is Jesus birthday). Even bigger than it being Jesus "birthday"...we should ask why did Jesus choose to be born as a baby in the first place? I believe its because of God's heart for relationship with us. In fact, the bible tells us He would be called "Emmanuel"..."God with us". That tells us something very intregal to the Christmas story. It tells us something central to God's heart in all this. You see Christmas is not "getting" ...but "being with." As a matter of fact, its always been about God "being with" us...and in turn us "being with" others! Simply put...love is best manifested by "being with" someone. Christmas is God's love expressed in its best form...God with us...in the person of Jesus. So as ECHO, we hope to be a people that as we celebrate Christmas in the future may we always remember, Christmas isn't about "getting stuff"...its about "being with". God with us...and us being with others. In this the heart of Christmas is best expressed. Perhaps beginning with this year... "being with" can be our focus...in the midst of all the fun :)

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

The Why?

Have you ever been around young kids...especially pre-schoolers or early grade school kids? They do something that many of us have forgotten to do. They do something that we often don't like...yet it is so healthy. They do something that we often discourage, yet, I believe Jesus would encourage. You see, Jesus said that we needed to become like little children to enter into the Kingdom of God. Perhaps this is one area he was referring to. I'm speaking of young kids tendency to ask "why?" What a great word! They ask it over and over...and we sometimes answer...but mostly we don't. Unfortunately, we teach them that their "why" questions are not important...or at least not worth our time to answer. What a shame. The older we get, it seems we ask less "why" questions...we seem to acclimate to our surroundings and "go with the flow", so to speak. Whether at home, at work, at church or in our culture...we often do stuff without ever asking why? Which begs a big question...Why? What a shame we have stopped asking this important question. Why questions, when honestly pursued, will often take you to the core...the central truth... the foundation...if you dare to ask of it...and if you dare explore its depths. Often in church circles we do stuff...lots of stuff...lots of churchy stuff...lots of "good" stuff" even...but we never ask why? Shouldn't we? If, as followers of Jesus...Who is Truth...shouldn't we be the biggest askers of "why"? Shouldn't we be the biggest pursuers of "truth"? Unfortunately we often are not... because we fail to ask...why? For example...when asked, why do churches even exist...some would say "to worship God". Now, though this is partially correct, wouldn't a "why" fit in well here? Why is church conducive to worshipping God? Why is church necessary in the worshipping God equation? Why is that the method of choice? Another common answer to why churches exist, some would say, "is to go into all the world and preach the gospel" (known as the "Great Commission" in church circles). Wouldn't this be a good place to ask, "why"? Why do we need to "go"? Why do we need to preach the gospel, and what is "the gospel" by the way, that we are preaching? Though both of these common answers are partially correct...they are not. A simple "why" will take you deeper...to the "foundation" as to why we do these things at all. Why do we worship God together? Why is the Great Commission a big deal? And are these 2 things the "most important" thing followers of Jesus are about? Dare I say..."no!" Why, do I say that? Simple...Jesus was asked very directly what was "most important"...and he answered very directly...and simply...Jesus said "everything" (as in all things...as in even church things...as in life things...as in every single thing!) ..."everything" hung on this (as in hanging like a picture on a nail...i.e. "completely dependent on") ...Everything hung on this..."love God with your whole heart, mind and flesh...and love others as you love yourself". If you ask "why" long enough...and dig deep enough...you'll end up at this central... foundational truth...that EVERYTHING HANGS ON! Why do we gather to worship together? Because we are created to love God AND love each other...and gathering together is very conducive to doing just that. (it should be noted that "if" your gathering together is "not" conducive to worshipping God and loving each other well...then some serious adjustments need to happen...it may begin with a "why" not question?) Gathering ALONE...seperately...may allow you to worship God...but it hinders the second half of Jesus emphasis...the loving people part. Can we gather in mass and not love each other well? Sure...many churches do...sadly, they are missing a key component of what Jesus calls His "church" (His people) to be. But being alone ensures you fail on the loving people thing...cause their ain't no people around for you to love on! Why is the Great Commission so important? Because if you really do love God with all you got...His love will grow in you and you'll naturally want to share that love with others. As you love them, the Great Commission happens...its a natural flow out from your life, as you love God and allow His love to flow through you to others. So what's the danger of not asking "why"? Well, you may gather...or not gather in worship...without fully understanding why. Too many gather because "you should" without knowing "why". Knowing "why" gives you greater motivation...and a more natural flow into worship... rather than it becoming some stale ritual you do, because you are "supposed to". The same can happen with the Great Commission. Too many "do" the preaching the gospel thing...without living it. The result...people are repelled by the gospel...not attracted to it. Without love as its motivation, even evangelism and outreach, can become an exercise in ritual...without the heart to it that Jesus intended. People sniff it out quickly too. People know when you really care and love them...and when they are some project for you...some notch in your church belt...somebody you need for your agenda. May God forgive us for not asking "why". May God forgive us for doing so much churchy stuff...without even knowing why...without even having Jesus heart at the core of what we live. At ECHO, our challenge is to become a group of Jesus followers who will always ask "why"...and not be afraid of the answer. If the answer takes us nowhere...then perhaps what we're doing is not rooted in Jesus truth. If that's so, then we need to adjust. If we ask "why" and it takes us back to what Jesus said "it all hangs on"...then we know we are on the right track... motivated by whats right...God's love for us, flowing through us, to those around us...and in that the Kingdom of God will be expanded...because we dared to ask "why?"

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Authentic Thanksgiving

We love Thanksgiving in my house, don't you? Lots and lots of great food...turkey...stuffing...cranberry...carrots...yams...mashed potato...gravy...salads...pies...ice cream...hot cider...ahhhh good stuff! Lots of family and friends too...that makes it even better. We usually open up our home to whomever wants to join us. Being in a college town, often people can't get home for Thanksgiving...so we welcome whoever would like to join in the feast...the more the merrier. Then top it all off with lots and lots of football. Oh ya, just relax, laugh, tell stories and watch football till we slowly...drift off...to that "oh I ate too much"...nap...zzzzzzzzz. That's our Thanksgiving...sound familiar? Yep...its probably a lot like yours too. It seems that's the typical modern American Thanksgiving (barring a few minor variables). Yet the first Thanksgiving was quite different really. We seem to depict it as if it was almost like what we do today...except with a few Indians and pilgrims thrown in...but it wasn't. In 1621 life in America was very different. No grocery stores. No Walmart Super Centers with an abundance of cheap, affordable food. No wealth to speak of. No cities or established communities anywhere near what we have today. Life in 1621 was about survival. People farmed and hunted to survive. Remember people came to America to escape religious and government persecution. They desired freedom...and were willing to risk it all to have a shot at it. Not a guarantee of it...just a shot at it. Thankfully, for us, they succeeded. But for this first group of settlers, having enough of a harvest to survive the harsh winter was a big deal. Without it they die and the dream ends. But with the help of local Indians teaching them techniques to grow crops in this new land, along with the resources these settlers brought from Europe... together, the harvest was plentiful. Not plentiful, as in cook it all up and eat too much, till you fall asleep on the couch. But plentiful as in store the food after its been gathered...and be careful, even very moderate in using it properly...to ensure you make it through the winter. In fact, history tells us, this first Thanksgiving was not so much a "feast" of gluttonous proportions, as it was a day of quiet, thankful, worship to God. Most of the day was in prayerful solitude. These pilgrims knew without God's provision and protection they wouldn't survive. The cold, harsh winter would take its toll if their harvest wasn't sufficient. Their hearts were overwhelmed with gratitude. It wasn't a wild, loud party of celebrating till you puke. It was a day of prayer, worship and hearts of gratitude toward God...that happened to end in a meal...a modest meal...a meal of Thanksgiving. At ECHO, we know how easy it is look at history through the eyes of our current culture, and sometimes miss the essence of the moment. Isn't it weird how "our" Thanksgiving is a day of eat till you drop, over abundance...with a token prayer of thanksgiving thrown in. While the pilgrims Thanksgiving was a day of reflection, prayer and quiet gratefulness...with a moderate meal added in to seal the deal. Somehow we miss that part of "thanksgiving day". In America we do the same with most holidays. We can often miss the significance of Christmas, the 4th of July, Easter...and yes even Thanksgiving. Other cultures have faced the same dementia. The biblical era Hebrews often had celebrations to commemorate very significant things, usually tied to God and their nations history...yet often the scriptures tell us of their absent mindedness. Often the rituals of celebration had lost their meaning...and the party became the focus, rather than the celebration being about the significance and meaning they were reminded of in that moment...or holiday...or ritual. Unfortunately, we too often...do the same...I suppose its part of the human condition...this type of memory loss. But at ECHO, we hope to intentionally re-focus our minds and hearts on the foundational things God has done...and appropriately celebrate them! It's good to celebrate authentically. But not good to celebrate simply for the sake of the party. In that is a distinct hollowness...one that God would hope we would avoid. At ECHO, we hope to encourage all of us to avoid it also...because if we do...there is a lot to be thankful for!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Bigger, Better, Best

We live in a culture where the bigger something is, the better it is assumed to be? We see this in lots of things. Homes. Cars. Meals. Restaurants. Stadiums. Multi-Plex Theatres. Even churches. Now we know from practical experience that the place that serves that HUGE burrito...is not necessarily serving your cities "best" burrito. We know that the biggest truck or car, though eye catching and "impressive" initially...its not always the vehicle that is the best in drivability...maintence...gas mileage...and comfort. We know that the "best" home is not always the biggest. A huge home...with anxiety...stress...work overload...and an inability to manage it...can quickly crush your enthusiasm. The same goes in church circles. Biblically, does God like "big" churches? Well, He is definitely into as many people as possible being in relationship with Him as can be...millions...even billions. Clearly Jesus gathered crowds. Clearly heaven is full of angels and multitudes of people. So God is into "big"? Well, not necessarily. Sure God likes big and many, as long as its people gathered authentically, whose hearts are His...but not bigness for the sake of big...or for the sake of status or impressions. We often live like he does, but we have it all twisted and upside down. Look carefully at what God values most. Jesus said "everything" hangs on this..."everything" depends on this...in other words, He was making crystal clear what is of the MOST importance. What did He say? Build huge multi-million dollar churches? Gather large crowds no matter the cost? No...He said, "Love God with your whole heart...mind...and soul. And, love others, as you love yourself." So a huge "clue" into the heart of God is in this bold proclamation of what God thinks. Often we get it at a surface level...but we miss the essence of how important this is. God thinks people experiencing His love and trusting it in relationship with Him is of the highest priority. God thinks that as he teaches us what "authentic love" is...it should flow from one person to another, in real relationships. So the filter should be does "bigger" create the "best" environment for that to happen? Its a good one to ponder and consider. Let's face it, free pizza and beer can get a crowd. A great band and staging can attract a crowd. A funny, skilled speaker can draw a crowd. A knowledgeable marketing guy can suck many people in...to almost anything. But what creates an environment where God is authentically experienced on a personal level? Can that happen in a huge crowd? Sometimes. Sometimes, a very worshipful vibe is created by a mass of people centered in on God and giving Him free reign to touch their lives. More often than not, the large crowd allows people to be hidden, anonymous, impersonal, and if touched...its usually the emotion and hype of a well staged large group gathering. Too often we settle for this. God doesn't. What environment is conducive to people actually sharing their lives together...yes, even their mess...yet learning to love, forgive and persevere together? Can that happen in a large gathering of thousands? Can it happen in large group of even hundreds? Perhaps in isolated and rare occurrences... but most likely...not! The larger the group of people the harder it is to allow authentic relationships to flow as God intended...so we usually settle for surface...rather than whats real. Relationships are centered in trust. In revelation. In process. That doesn't happen in large gatherings of anonymity and hype. Most don't open up to another without knowing them for a while...and being known by them. That doesn't typically happen in a crowded room. In smaller, safer environments, its possible. As that natural process of revelation happens...trust grows...relationships grow...and become. Its the same with our relationship with God...as God reveals His heart to us...we begin a process of trusting His love...that grows as we journey in relationship with Him. At ECHO, we are not afraid to look closely at what God values...and not just glance at it on the surface and go chase after our tendency's which tell us, "bigger is better"...but to look beyond our western, cultural ways of looking at things...to look through that fog to the light of what God says is "best"! Now, that sounds easy...its not. Not as a church. Not as individuals desiring God's best. But at ECHO we want to encourage everyone...every not-yet-believer...every already convinced...every church leader...every church...to look through the fog of culture...yes, even church culture...to see God's best. That's the target. That's where our true value lies. That's where we discover the life that God says is "abundant". Perhaps the reason we don't experience it often enough is because we have settled for "bigger is better"...rather than what God says is "best!".

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

You Can Say That Again

satisfaction,
satisfaction.
'Cause I try and I try and I try and I try.
I can't get no, I can't get no.

When I'm drivin' in my car
and a man comes on the radio
he's tellin' me more and more
about some useless information
supposed to fire my imagination.
I can't get no, oh no no no.
Hey hey hey, that's what I say.

I can't get no satisfaction,
I can't get no satisfaction.
'Cause I try and I try and I try and I try.
I can't get no, I can't get no...

lyric from "Satisfaction" by Mick Jagger & Keith Richards

You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
But if you try sometimes you just might find
You just might find
You get what you need
lyric from "You Can't Always Get What You Want" by Mick Jagger & Keith Richards

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for harm, to give you a future and a hope."

Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

be God's!

Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Trick? or Treat?

My kids are always trying to sneak up on me and scare me. It's really quite funny, because they usually don't. First off the word "boo" isn't inherently scary...plus when they say it...I kinda know its their voice. I mean, who decided "boo" was scary? And why? I know its supposed to be what ghost say...but really, is that the best a ghost could come up with? Really? Boo, actually sounds like a fun word...a playful word... a silly word. That's why it doesn't scare me. It's no more scary than someone sneaking up behind me and saying "cheese!". OOOOhhh, I just have to laugh. Now in the Fall, we seem to like the playful and scary. Its all a part of the Halloween spirit I suppose. Goofy creatures that make silly sounds like "boo". And we sometimes jump in fear...other times we laugh in shock. Its all meant to be innocent fun, but often lost in the Halloween "fun" is the undercurrent of truth in this occasion. This night of the dead has roots back to the ancient Druid celebration of Samhain. Samhain marked the end of the season of life & light and the beginning of the season of darkness and death. The Druids had their year divided into these two primary seasons. Now it makes sense naturally...in the Fall, all the leaves drop from the trees and we are about to enter a season where nothing grows...Winter. Everything in nature goes into a hibernation of sorts until the season of life begins in the Spring! But to the Druids it was much more. It was also deeply spiritual. On this night of Samhain, the dead and evil spirits had free rein over the earth to create mischief. Now I'm not taking about stealing pumpkins kind of mischief...we're talking serious mischief...like curses, pillaging, and killing in retaliation. The Druid priests often would go home to home, farm to farm, and collect "treats" on behalf of the dead & evil spirits...if you failed to comply with their wishes then a "trick" was coming your way. These "treats" weren't just cute little candy treats...but food, children, maybe one of your livestock, whatever they asked for...the "trick" was the penalty if you did not comply. The "trick" may be burning down your barns, killing your horse, or kidnapping one of your family members. This was serious stuff...and we often don't realize it. In fact, the Irish legend of the Jack o' Lantern, tells of a man who sold his soul to the devil, and when he died he was not allowed into heaven. When he went to hell, Satan refused his entry, but gave him a small cinder from the fires of hell. Jack put this cinder in a turnip he had hollowed out, to give him a little light & warmth, to guide him for all eternity. A reject of both heaven & hell. How sad is that story. Yet we celebrate Jack 'o Lanterns, without knowing the cryptic background to such a tradition. Much of what we do at Halloween is like that. Unlike most other holiday occasions, Halloween is not centered in a Christian celebration. Its roots are dark, occultic, and pagan in its spirit. In fact, today, in the pacific northwest, its widely known that occult and witchcraft activity heightens at Halloween. Its considered a high feast, often accompanied with sacrifices and rituals, that are very real and serious in the spirit realm. As followers we should not be ignorant...nor fearful. Jesus is already victorious over any spiritual force, whether real or imagined. But as followers of Jesus we should also live with clear thinking regarding things of this sort. We should not be naive. Especially for our children, we should model whats spiritually healthy. At ECHO, we suggest you steer away from the dark imagery, the death, the evil and those traditions associated with such things. Does that mean we can't dress up and have fun? No, not at all...dress up (if you wish), have fun with family & friends, gather your candy, laugh and enjoy the good. But be aware and wise regarding the dark...the evil... the things that glorify death & deprivation. Those things are not godly and should not be "enjoyed"...they should be "diminished" as much as possible. "For God hasn't given you a spirit of fear...but of power... love...and a sound mind (or clear thinking)". Embrace the innocent fun...and steer away from that which too closely associated with the dark side of this time of year. As followers of Jesus, we at ECHO, would hope we would always point people towards the light... the good...the righteous...and help people steer away from the dark...the evil...and death. May you live everyday...even Halloween...in a spirit of truth...love...and hope!

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Shadows

Shadows

Life is full of light and shadow

O the joy and O the sorrow

O the sorrow

And yet will He bring

Dark to light

And yet will He bring

Day from night

When shadows fall on us

We will not fear

We will remember

When darkness falls on us

We will not fear

We will remember

When all seems lost

When we're thrown and we're tossed

We remember the cost

We rest in Him

Shadow of the cross

by David Crowder

be God's!

Brian O

Leader Pastor dude, ECHO

External Drive vs Internal Drive

I once visited Austin, Minnesota to visit a friend, and lo and behold I discovered the Spam Factory was there! What an interesting surprise. I knew of Spam...yes, even tasted it...but to now be in the shadows of the actual factory that produces the product...now that was something. What I discovered, was much like the old Oscar Meyer Wiener Mobile...Spam had its own vehicle...a box truck...shaped appropriately like a can of Spam. How cool is that? Interesting the promotional ideas companies come up with. Some brilliant. Some not so much. The Spam truck was cool...as was the factory. I remember being at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 2006 and seeing a Harley looking t-shirt that read "Austin, Minnesota, where all good hogs go to die", Spam Factory 2006. That was brilliant...I wanted one. They were only available at the Spam Factory. They were all sold out. Bummer! In spite of the brilliance of Spam's Sturgis t-shirt, and the Spam Mobile...it still doesn't change the biggest question. "What exactly is 'in' Spam?" In spite of the brilliance of the external marketing that peaked my interest...eventually I had to deal with... "what in the heck is this stuff?" and "Would I dare buy it and eat it?" It reminds me of how we often live in church circles and perhaps how we tend live as humans in general. We know that what's "inside" is of the most importance...yet we often gravitate to the "external". In church, the environment for people to experience God and to experience love from others in a godly way, is clearly the mandate scripturally. Yet we spend more time and energy and resources on "how things look". Most churches are mostly focused on where they are located...is it a high traffic area...is it in the "right" part of town...does it look impressive...etc? Most churches worry more about how long the service is...the style of music...the performance of said music...the length of sermon time...the lighting...the videos...the techie stuff to look cool...even stuff like coffee...artwork...dress codes etc...? The assumption is "if" we position ourselves properly and look good enough and perform well enough...people will pour in the doors. Huh? We are so driven by this external focus, we often miss whats most important, the internal. Do we spend as much time, energy and resources on cooperating with God's Spirit to have a spiritual environment where people can genuinely gather and experience God in community? Do we spend as much time, energy and resources on considering how we may be able to create an environment where people can actually connect relationally in an authentic way...so that the love of God may actually flow from one person to another? How often do we focus on and consider these "core" internal things that should drive our churches? I believe if people experienced an authentic encounter with God...and were surrounded by godly loving people that really would journey with them through life...I believe you could not keep people away from that church! Even if it was in an old dusty warehouse somewhere...people would be looking for that place! People would be enthusiastically bringing there friends and work associates and neighbors! Not bringing them because they hope they will be impressed by the "show" or the "building"...but because they knew the environment had so much God stuff going on that there was a good chance their friend may experience God and His love through His people gathering. Funny, we as individuals, tend to gravitate to the same thing. It seems we like to focus on the "external" aspects of who we are (or seem to be)...way more than we focus on the "internal" aspects of who "we really are". Its a human tendency I suppose. Its this thing in us to gravitate towards "performance" over "being". Its easier to look good, dress right, drive the right car and develop "status" ...than it is to be kind, forgiving, generous, sacrificial in serving others needs over your own and other godly qualities. The bible says that it is the "Spirit of God working in us" that produces these godly qualities...not what we do by self will. Yet we gravitate to what "we can do"...perform to impress or attract. As churches we do the same thing. Its easier to have an impressive building or put on a good "Sunday show" than it is to cooperate with God's Spirit in loving others in an authentic way. Its easier to have a tight hour and a half performance with God stuff sprinkled in...than it is to experience God's Spirit touching lives in a deeply personal way. Its easier to serve coffee, have a greeter open the door with a smile, and shake hands after the second song...than it is to actually share your life with another and journey with them through the messiness of life, as you build authentic relationship together. Why do we gravitate to the "external" so easily? Why do I do it too? Is it to avoid dealing with the "internal"? Is it because we feel like we can control the external? Is it because we fear surrendering the "internal" into God's control? Maybe we'd rather depend on us more than God? We hate trying to perform and be good enough...yet we tend to go that direction...as individuals...and as churches. At ECHO we realize how easy it is to "do church"...actually, to "do the mechanics of church"...yet often miss the core, essential, internal things that God desires His church...His people...to be. We gather to explore...and experience God together. We gather to share life...to really share life with each other. This requires patience, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, acceptance, and love. All things people crave. All things God desires His people to share. These are the internal things that drive people deeper into relationships with God...and with His people. Without it we may as well being selling Spam...cool factory building...cool truck... nothing of substance on the inside. Once people discover that...they won't be back for more. At ECHO, we hope to be a people of substance...godly substance...not settling for performance based church. But allowing God's Spirit to build within us something that truly is life transforming for us...and those we come in contact with! Trusting and cooperating with God's Spirit to do within us and through us...what we could not do on our own. Join with us on this journey...its a harder road...but well worth it...for everyone concerned :)

.

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Just For Fun

Recently I was reading some interesting rock history on a variety of bands that have come from Ireland. Being Irish, with 2 parents born and raised in Ireland...I am proud and amazed at how many great music artists have come from this island nation. What's most interesting is Ireland's historical embrace of artists, poets, and writers...along with a deep spiritual root that goes back to the late 470's when St. Patrick arrived on the scene. St. Patty was brilliant at weaving biblical themes into the arts and spiritual traditions of the not-yet-believing Irish. He was so successful at it, he is credited with 'Christianizing' the nation. That impact has emanated around the world...much of it through Irish art, poetry, music and writers. Ireland's deep Christian roots and embrace of the arts in all forms has led to some amazing musical artists, many of which have a uniquely spiritual foundation in their musical offerings. Not all of them do, of course. Some themes are your typical love songs, party songs, songs of various emotions, common to the human condition...that part isn't unusual. But the spiritual themes of hope, love, peace and healing... especially in the context of God as its source...that is uniquely prevalent. That's kinda cool. At ECHO we too embrace the arts, of all kinds, knowing that they can be great expressions of the soul and can deeply touch people in very relevant ways. Note some of these famous (and perhaps not so famous, at least in the USA) Irish bands. Think on some of their songs, their themes, the spirit in their music... How many times has God spoken to you through a 4 minute song?

Top Irish Bands
-U2
-Snow Patrol
-Van Morrison (his band was originally called "Them")
-The Cranberries
-Sinead O'Connor
-Thin Lizzy
-The Boomtown Rats (led by Bob Geldof of Live Aid fame)
-The Pogues
-The Undertones (led by Feargal Sharky)
-Rory Gallagher (a legend in slide-blues-rock guitar)
-Enya

To name a few!

Who is or was your favorite?

Who had the most impact on you?

What songs "spoke to you"?

May the ECHO of the songs that touched us, be a reminder of how our lives can ECHO God's love as well. Pass it on...

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Grace Misunderstood

This past summer, as we were on vacation, we came upon 2 signs that seemed "opposite in spirit" yet "compatible" at the same time. As we drove from Arkansas into Texas, from the northeast near Texarkana, we saw a sign warning us "don't mess with Texas", with a huge $1,000 fine for littering (I think its $186 in Oregon for perspective). This sign didn't feel very welcoming... in fact some might think it was uninviting, to say the least. Right behind this sign, was a colorful sign with the Lone Star state's flag proudly declaring "Welcome to Texas". With a caption saying, in a friendly sort of way, "drive friendly...the Texas way". One sign seems to tell the visitor "don't screw up or you're toast". While the other says, "Hey, just work with me on this...trust me...it'll be OK". I love how those two signs are juxtaposed against each other... seemingly opposites...but in reality saying the same thing consistently, two different ways. Grace is much like that. The concept of "grace" as Jesus taught it and expressed it, is often seen as the opposite of much of what the scripture declares. It can almost seem as if "grace" says, "hey, forget that other stuff". But in reality grace is not a blanket dismissal of all the declarations of scripture, as some may assume. Some would suggest that all the law, wisdom, counsel and dictates of scripture have been set aside in favor of an age of grace. A grace that says, "that other stuff doesn't matter anymore, so don't sweat it". Some would say grace absolves our responsibility in many things scripture declares. In actuality grace may indeed be saying something very different than we realize. For instance, when looking at the teachings of Jesus, we actually see that grace broadens our response to God...rather than absolving us of it. The Law (of scripture) tells us we should not kill. Jesus tells us that when we have anger in our heart, we've committed murder. The Law tells us not to commit adultery...Jesus says when we lust in our heart, we already have committed sexual sin. The Law says we should give offerings of at least 10% (a tithe or tenth) to God's purposes...Jesus declares that "everything" is His, and we are given responsibility in how we use it...for our purposes or for God's purposes. The Old Testament had one day as the Lord's Day...Jesus let us know He wants our whole life, every day. You see, the Law of scripture may actually require less than Jesus asks. As you read Jesus' words carefully, you actually see He is asking for a much higher standard than the Law does. But how can that be? Wasn't Jesus all about delivering a message of "grace"? How do those two road signs fit together? They seem contradictory... not compatible? So what's the deal? There is one big difference in the mix. The Law required we met it by the letter, or else we were disqualified. We were bound by performance to the Laws requirement. It was a "Don't Mess With the Law" kind of feeling...and the penalty was much bigger than a $1,000 bucks...it was death! The result of messing up in following the Law meant the death penalty... sometimes literally...all the time spiritually. With Jesus He brings the "Drive Friendly" vibe...the Welcome mat is out...we call it "grace". Grace is that wonderful gift provided by Jesus, that covers us when we don't meet the demands of the Law. When we miss the letter of Law...the Spirit of grace leads the way. Jesus, motivated by love, invites us all through grace...by saying, "I've provided a way for all of you...if you trust Me. I know you will mess up and not be able to fulfill the Law. Your best won't cut it...but my grace will be enough for you regardless." That's why Jesus' message is called the "good news". No more performing to the letter of the Law. But Jesus didn't get rid of the Law's requirements...He actually expanded them because of grace! He actually lays down some stuff that's much harder to live out...like controlling anger, lust, selfishness and stuff like that. Things no one is immune to. It is as if Jesus is saying...now that grace covers when you fall short of my demands...lets take your performance off the table...and focus on what God desires to shape in you. Things that are much harder to be manifested in our lives. Can you imagine not ever getting angry? Never lusting? Always living as if your whole life "actually" belonged to God and not you? Living to the point of all you have is "actually" God's, for His Kingdom...not for your self interest? Wow, those are some radical demands...or shall I say...a rather high bar God is trying to get us to live out. But grace would remind us that "we" can't do it...only God in us can move us in that direction. A life of love...real love...God's love. Not something mustered up in human strength, but a love born of the Spirit of God in us and through us. Grace actually removes "performance" from the equation...but increases our "dependence" on God to make a more lofty set of ideals growing within our hearts and lives possible...and worth moving towards. At ECHO, we are so excited to share this "good news"...and the opportunity to learn to live life dependent on God at a deeper level. Not a level of legalistic check lists of "do's and don'ts"...but a life that is fully surrendered and cooperating with God...not only for His Kingdom's best interests...but ours as well. God's grace doesn't excuse us from what He desires...it actually expands what He desires from us. That is, indeed, an exciting, challenging, humbling and messy process in our journey of life. But it is one worth taking. Grace invites us to live a more daring life than the Law ever could. Grace says, "let it all hang out...give all of yourself... give all you got...go for it", in a radical dependence on the God who loves you...provides for you...guides and directs you...and ultimately empowers you to live as He desires! And know that His "grace" provides the "safety net"...when we fall short...when we can't...when we aren't in the mood...when we don't understand. In those moments may "grace" remind us, not only of the love seen in God's gift...but may it remind us of the invitation to depend on Him ...even for the impossible!

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be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO