Today the Youth and Young Adult Ministry of CMBC is launching their own website.
It's something I've never done before at CMBC, but I believe it's time. Check it out when you have the time. It's still under construction. It's in a very basic format. I'm sure it will always be a work in progress as we live in this ever-changing world.
I'm looking to have a "facebook" piece and maybe even a "myspace" piece. If you knew me, you would know that's a huge consideration.
Finally, if you need a website for your church or business, let me suggest that you consider getting a quote from my sister Candice Fort. She's the architect of both the CMBC site and this new youth site. You can check her site out at: www.fortsupport.net.
Pray for me. I'm praying for you.
Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT'S GOD'S VISION AND NOT YOURS?
Gullible. That's what most of us are. Most of us are gullible, easily influenced, quickly intoxicated and even more easily manipulated by the world, the flesh and the devil.
On the contrary, it seems to me that we are not so easily influenced, impacted or engaged when it comes to The Lord Jesus Christ. While the Bible calls for us to be "filled with The Spirit"; and to be under the influence of our God as we read, study and live out His Word... too much of the time we (Christians) are not.
I recently returned from Dallas Texas and Salt Lake City Utah. I'm scheduled to preach this Sunday at the great Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in Tucson Arizona, Rev. Elwood McDowell, pastor.
Traveling the way I have lately and looking at what's going on in my own life (as I continue to work on the 2009 Pastor's Summit), and as I watch the activity of busyness going on at the church where I serve as Pastor, I can't help but wonder- just how much of what we do is of/from The Lord. And how much is us.
I think that too many times pastor's, preachers, ministry leaders and members of the laity go to conferences, hear sermons and listen to teaching- and then leave mimicking what we've seen and heard.
All too often we attend a conference, revival or class, listen to tremendous testimony which the great things our God is doing in the life of another person church or ministry, and then think that we've been called to do the same thing too.
Now, please know that I realize there is a clear difference between "admiring" someone and mimicking them. There is a difference between being moved and motivated by another person and flat out copying what another believer is doing. The Apostle Paul in the book of Ephesians, writes that we should "be imitators of God as dear children". He says that we should mimic our Messiah. But beyond Jesus, we're not told to "mimic" anyone else.
In addition to my being irritated and agitated by what I we see in the body of Christ as a kind of copy cat christian, I am equally disturbed by what appears to be a focus by many on self instead of The Savior.
Have you noticed how many ministries are named for people? Have you noticed how personality driven we seem to be?
Like certain groups in the book of Acts, we seem to relish the preachers and pastors we "sit under". I often hear Christian's speak with great pride when telling others who their pastor is. We say things like: "My pastor is Reverend 'Such in Such'". Or, "My Bishop is Prophet 'So in So'".
In contrast however, I for one rarely hear us brag and boast so quickly and easily about who our Savior is. Hmm?
Have you paid attention to how we plan, arrange and go about programming our events? It's clear that many of us are in competition with one another. Many of us hear about someone else having a conference, holding a seminar or having a revival- and we try to "best" them.
We plan our own similar event. Then plan way too many activities. Then invite everybody in the world to come (regardless of their denomination, religious beliefs, etc.); AND be on "program". When our event takes place we encourage everyone to sing, dance, shout, holler, give their neighbor a "high five", turn around, touch the ground and give the dog a bone.
But hey, here's a question: Where is The Lord in all of this? I'm talking to myself first, so don't trip. But, really, where is The Lord in all of this? Do we really have Him in view? Or, are we thinking about our name, our reputation and our status in the christian community?
May The Lord save us from ourselves. May we let go of our ego and really begin to plan, promote and push things will bring authentic glory to God!
Remember, God is not primarily interested in counting numbers. He's more interested in making the numbers in attendance count. Jesus Christ excused the multitudes on many occasions; and instead chose to invest in twelve men. Twelve, whom the Bible say when about turning the world "upside down".
One of my preaching heroes, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., says that the Apostles "turned the world right side up, because it was already upside down".
Some things to look for when trying to determine whether or not your vision is from God are: 1) Ask yourself does your vision find a foundation in The Word of God. 2) Ask yourself is there a prior precedent for my vision in The Word of God. 3) Ask yourself does my vision bring all glory to God, or to me. 4) Ask yourself if unbelievers/non-Christians are brought to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as your vision is worked out. 5) Ask yourself if Christians are encouraged as your vision is worked out. 6) Ask yourself if you would do the work involved in your vision for free? Or, is your primary motivation money. 7) Ask yourself are you doing the work of the vision in your own strength, or is The Holy Spirit your power source. 8) Ask yourself if you experience joy while carrying out your vision.
Oh yeah, one last thing. Let's try not to wear the people of God out in the performance of our vision and then leave them weak and anemic, when that same audience is asked to minister to their biological families at home as well as their local church family.
Concerning everything I've mentioned... I am guilty.
At the church where I serve, I've made and continue to make moves that I pray will ensure that no one is overworked. Moves that will keep ministry leaders from being burned out. Moves that will not have anyone out at the church building every night of the week, and consequently never at home building that primary family.
Sure there are exceptions. By this, I mean there are persons who will intentionally schedule themselves to be involved in a variety of things that call for them to be out of their home too many nights each week. And, for these people there is often not much we can do. Except this, ... pray!
Let's pray one for another.
Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort
On the contrary, it seems to me that we are not so easily influenced, impacted or engaged when it comes to The Lord Jesus Christ. While the Bible calls for us to be "filled with The Spirit"; and to be under the influence of our God as we read, study and live out His Word... too much of the time we (Christians) are not.
I recently returned from Dallas Texas and Salt Lake City Utah. I'm scheduled to preach this Sunday at the great Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in Tucson Arizona, Rev. Elwood McDowell, pastor.
Traveling the way I have lately and looking at what's going on in my own life (as I continue to work on the 2009 Pastor's Summit), and as I watch the activity of busyness going on at the church where I serve as Pastor, I can't help but wonder- just how much of what we do is of/from The Lord. And how much is us.
I think that too many times pastor's, preachers, ministry leaders and members of the laity go to conferences, hear sermons and listen to teaching- and then leave mimicking what we've seen and heard.
All too often we attend a conference, revival or class, listen to tremendous testimony which the great things our God is doing in the life of another person church or ministry, and then think that we've been called to do the same thing too.
Now, please know that I realize there is a clear difference between "admiring" someone and mimicking them. There is a difference between being moved and motivated by another person and flat out copying what another believer is doing. The Apostle Paul in the book of Ephesians, writes that we should "be imitators of God as dear children". He says that we should mimic our Messiah. But beyond Jesus, we're not told to "mimic" anyone else.
In addition to my being irritated and agitated by what I we see in the body of Christ as a kind of copy cat christian, I am equally disturbed by what appears to be a focus by many on self instead of The Savior.
Have you noticed how many ministries are named for people? Have you noticed how personality driven we seem to be?
Like certain groups in the book of Acts, we seem to relish the preachers and pastors we "sit under". I often hear Christian's speak with great pride when telling others who their pastor is. We say things like: "My pastor is Reverend 'Such in Such'". Or, "My Bishop is Prophet 'So in So'".
In contrast however, I for one rarely hear us brag and boast so quickly and easily about who our Savior is. Hmm?
Have you paid attention to how we plan, arrange and go about programming our events? It's clear that many of us are in competition with one another. Many of us hear about someone else having a conference, holding a seminar or having a revival- and we try to "best" them.
We plan our own similar event. Then plan way too many activities. Then invite everybody in the world to come (regardless of their denomination, religious beliefs, etc.); AND be on "program". When our event takes place we encourage everyone to sing, dance, shout, holler, give their neighbor a "high five", turn around, touch the ground and give the dog a bone.
But hey, here's a question: Where is The Lord in all of this? I'm talking to myself first, so don't trip. But, really, where is The Lord in all of this? Do we really have Him in view? Or, are we thinking about our name, our reputation and our status in the christian community?
May The Lord save us from ourselves. May we let go of our ego and really begin to plan, promote and push things will bring authentic glory to God!
Remember, God is not primarily interested in counting numbers. He's more interested in making the numbers in attendance count. Jesus Christ excused the multitudes on many occasions; and instead chose to invest in twelve men. Twelve, whom the Bible say when about turning the world "upside down".
One of my preaching heroes, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., says that the Apostles "turned the world right side up, because it was already upside down".
Some things to look for when trying to determine whether or not your vision is from God are: 1) Ask yourself does your vision find a foundation in The Word of God. 2) Ask yourself is there a prior precedent for my vision in The Word of God. 3) Ask yourself does my vision bring all glory to God, or to me. 4) Ask yourself if unbelievers/non-Christians are brought to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as your vision is worked out. 5) Ask yourself if Christians are encouraged as your vision is worked out. 6) Ask yourself if you would do the work involved in your vision for free? Or, is your primary motivation money. 7) Ask yourself are you doing the work of the vision in your own strength, or is The Holy Spirit your power source. 8) Ask yourself if you experience joy while carrying out your vision.
Oh yeah, one last thing. Let's try not to wear the people of God out in the performance of our vision and then leave them weak and anemic, when that same audience is asked to minister to their biological families at home as well as their local church family.
Concerning everything I've mentioned... I am guilty.
At the church where I serve, I've made and continue to make moves that I pray will ensure that no one is overworked. Moves that will keep ministry leaders from being burned out. Moves that will not have anyone out at the church building every night of the week, and consequently never at home building that primary family.
Sure there are exceptions. By this, I mean there are persons who will intentionally schedule themselves to be involved in a variety of things that call for them to be out of their home too many nights each week. And, for these people there is often not much we can do. Except this, ... pray!
Let's pray one for another.
Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort
Monday, July 13, 2009
IT'S A NEW DAY ... AND I'M GLAD ABOUT IT- DELAYS AND ALL!
JESUS IS LORD... period.
It's just after 9:00am. This past weekend I was blessed to be invited to the great Unity Baptist Church in Salt Lake City Utah, Rev. Harold O. Fields Pastor. The occasion was Pastor and Sis. Fields' eleventh Pastor Appreciation Celebration.
Because I had just returned from Dallas Texas earlier the same week, and in truth, because I didn't want to have Unity Baptist Church incur any unnecessary hotel costs where I'm concerned- and because I really am not all that crazy about being away from home for too long, I made my flight arrangements so that I would leave Saturday morning and return Sunday evening.
Well both services on Sunday at Unity were a blessing! The music ministry at Unity were great, the people were warm and Rev. O. C. Fields, the son of Pastor and Sis. Fields was encouraging during the Sunday morning sermon.
The afternoon program was phenomenal. It appears to me that the Christian clergy in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas have a great fraternity. I mean pastors came out from various denominations and areas in support of this great celebration. The Lord blessed me to preach a sermon that I pray was helpful, encouraging and of course Bible-centered.
Because I really don't like missing flights, especially flights home, I left the pulpit right after I finished preaching (having shared my intent with the church family and asked for forgiveness before I preached); went to Pastor Fields' office, changed my shirt and headed off to the airport, driven by a new friend and brother, the god-loving and gifted, Pastor France Davis.
It was raining when we left the church, but that in now way compared with the rain of circumstances I encountered once I got to the airport. I'd already printed my boarding pass before I left the hotel and had one bag to check when I arrived at the airport.
After approaching the kiosk for automatic check in at the airport, I was told by an employee of the airline that the flight was delayed. Now watch this... it was delayed almost three and one half hours. Instead of departing at the scheduled time of 8:15pm, the flight was now scheduled to depart at 11:40pm.
Ultimately the flight did not leave Salt Lake City Utah until approximately 12:15am. Consequently I did not get home to my wife and family until around 2:20am. Then of course, because I'm a brother who often has a difficult time going to sleep, I didn't get to sleep until just after 3:00am.
Having said all that, let me tell you that God is still better than good! Initially I was pretty upset about the delays in the flight I was scheduled to take. And, when I was told that the reasons for the delay included "operational" problems and "weather" issues- I shared with the airline employee that I'd rather get to my destination delayed and in one piece, rather than on time an all broken up.
So then, one lesson in the delay might be akin to that old adage: "Better late, than not all".
However, once I finally boarded the flight back home to Phoenix the pilot came on the intercom prior to our departure and shared that the real reason for the delay was that forty wheel-chair bound military veterans got on the flight in Chicago. And because of their wheel chairs (both electric and manual); each person needed approximately five minutes to board and then another five minutes or so to de=plane after they arrived at their destination.
The pilot went on to say that these military veterans were going to a celebration of appreciation honoring their service to our country. Most everyone on board the plane began to clap at hearing the reason for the delay. The pilot went on to thank his crew, apologize for the delay and state that his goal was to get us to our destination both safely and as quickly as possible.
It's now Monday morning. I'm up after about four hours sleep. I'm hoping to fall asleep in a few hours and rest for an additional two hours or so... I need it. But I'm moved when I think of the events last night. And I believe one of the lessons in it may be this... It's not about me.
Other things were at work, behind the scenes that I had no knowledge of. I'm reminded of Blackaby's words in his now classic discipleship workbook titled: Experiencing God. He communicates the fact that God is at work behind the scenes.
Even when I'm looking, I don't see it all. But our God has an eye that never slumbers or sleeps. He knew what was going on the whole time. And He brought me back home to Phoenix safe and sound. I peeked in on my oldest daughter sleep in her room, I saw my youngest daughter asleep in the bed, and my wife met me at the door when I arrived.
It's all good ... because it's all about God.
Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort
It's just after 9:00am. This past weekend I was blessed to be invited to the great Unity Baptist Church in Salt Lake City Utah, Rev. Harold O. Fields Pastor. The occasion was Pastor and Sis. Fields' eleventh Pastor Appreciation Celebration.
Because I had just returned from Dallas Texas earlier the same week, and in truth, because I didn't want to have Unity Baptist Church incur any unnecessary hotel costs where I'm concerned- and because I really am not all that crazy about being away from home for too long, I made my flight arrangements so that I would leave Saturday morning and return Sunday evening.
Well both services on Sunday at Unity were a blessing! The music ministry at Unity were great, the people were warm and Rev. O. C. Fields, the son of Pastor and Sis. Fields was encouraging during the Sunday morning sermon.
The afternoon program was phenomenal. It appears to me that the Christian clergy in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas have a great fraternity. I mean pastors came out from various denominations and areas in support of this great celebration. The Lord blessed me to preach a sermon that I pray was helpful, encouraging and of course Bible-centered.
Because I really don't like missing flights, especially flights home, I left the pulpit right after I finished preaching (having shared my intent with the church family and asked for forgiveness before I preached); went to Pastor Fields' office, changed my shirt and headed off to the airport, driven by a new friend and brother, the god-loving and gifted, Pastor France Davis.
It was raining when we left the church, but that in now way compared with the rain of circumstances I encountered once I got to the airport. I'd already printed my boarding pass before I left the hotel and had one bag to check when I arrived at the airport.
After approaching the kiosk for automatic check in at the airport, I was told by an employee of the airline that the flight was delayed. Now watch this... it was delayed almost three and one half hours. Instead of departing at the scheduled time of 8:15pm, the flight was now scheduled to depart at 11:40pm.
Ultimately the flight did not leave Salt Lake City Utah until approximately 12:15am. Consequently I did not get home to my wife and family until around 2:20am. Then of course, because I'm a brother who often has a difficult time going to sleep, I didn't get to sleep until just after 3:00am.
Having said all that, let me tell you that God is still better than good! Initially I was pretty upset about the delays in the flight I was scheduled to take. And, when I was told that the reasons for the delay included "operational" problems and "weather" issues- I shared with the airline employee that I'd rather get to my destination delayed and in one piece, rather than on time an all broken up.
So then, one lesson in the delay might be akin to that old adage: "Better late, than not all".
However, once I finally boarded the flight back home to Phoenix the pilot came on the intercom prior to our departure and shared that the real reason for the delay was that forty wheel-chair bound military veterans got on the flight in Chicago. And because of their wheel chairs (both electric and manual); each person needed approximately five minutes to board and then another five minutes or so to de=plane after they arrived at their destination.
The pilot went on to say that these military veterans were going to a celebration of appreciation honoring their service to our country. Most everyone on board the plane began to clap at hearing the reason for the delay. The pilot went on to thank his crew, apologize for the delay and state that his goal was to get us to our destination both safely and as quickly as possible.
It's now Monday morning. I'm up after about four hours sleep. I'm hoping to fall asleep in a few hours and rest for an additional two hours or so... I need it. But I'm moved when I think of the events last night. And I believe one of the lessons in it may be this... It's not about me.
Other things were at work, behind the scenes that I had no knowledge of. I'm reminded of Blackaby's words in his now classic discipleship workbook titled: Experiencing God. He communicates the fact that God is at work behind the scenes.
Even when I'm looking, I don't see it all. But our God has an eye that never slumbers or sleeps. He knew what was going on the whole time. And He brought me back home to Phoenix safe and sound. I peeked in on my oldest daughter sleep in her room, I saw my youngest daughter asleep in the bed, and my wife met me at the door when I arrived.
It's all good ... because it's all about God.
Shalom,
Sherman J. Fort
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
A PREACHING CONFERNCE WORTH ATTENDING!
JESUS IS LORD... PERIOD!
It's Wednesday afternoon, I've just returned (early I might add); from the 14th Annual E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching. This annual event, held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Dallas and hosted this year by Rev. Bryan L. Carter and the Concord Missionary Baptist Church was great.
Like many of my preaching buddies, I've attended a variety of preaching conferences over the years, but let the record reflect this conference rings with a note of excellence.
From the venue, to the booths and most importantly the preachers and teachers... it was all just great.
If you're looking for one conference you can attend that will have a variety of solid, strong and stable gospel preachers, let me recommend this conference to you.
Speakers and teachers this year included: Dr. Joel C. Gregory, Rev. H. B. Charles, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., Rev. Bryan L. Carter, Dr. James Massey, Rev. Tellis Chatman, Rev. Maurice Watson, Dr. Arturo Azurdia and Dr. Ralph D. West to name a few.
In addition to good preaching and provocative teaching, the E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching also offers a "track system"; whereby the attendee can have the classes they take tracked over a course of years and then receive a certificate once they've completed a particular number of classes.
All that said, the best part of the conference may not be the preaching and teaching. Equally important and precious is the time in fellowship, and the creation of new friendships that seem to take place at this conference.
If you're interested in CD's or DVD's from the conference you can obtain them via E. K. Bailey Ministries. Check them out online.
Finally, if you're a wonderful sister in CHRIST, the S.T.A.N.D. Conference, hosted by Dr. Sheila Bailey (the widow of Dr. E. K. Bailey); takes place simultaneously with the preaching conference. So ladies, you can go too.
Here's my online shout out to the leadership team at E. K. Bailey Ministries. Thank you for hosting a great conference, at a quality hotel, with good preachers and teachers.
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
It's Wednesday afternoon, I've just returned (early I might add); from the 14th Annual E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching. This annual event, held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Dallas and hosted this year by Rev. Bryan L. Carter and the Concord Missionary Baptist Church was great.
Like many of my preaching buddies, I've attended a variety of preaching conferences over the years, but let the record reflect this conference rings with a note of excellence.
From the venue, to the booths and most importantly the preachers and teachers... it was all just great.
If you're looking for one conference you can attend that will have a variety of solid, strong and stable gospel preachers, let me recommend this conference to you.
Speakers and teachers this year included: Dr. Joel C. Gregory, Rev. H. B. Charles, Dr. A. Louis Patterson Jr., Rev. Bryan L. Carter, Dr. James Massey, Rev. Tellis Chatman, Rev. Maurice Watson, Dr. Arturo Azurdia and Dr. Ralph D. West to name a few.
In addition to good preaching and provocative teaching, the E. K. Bailey Conference on Expository Preaching also offers a "track system"; whereby the attendee can have the classes they take tracked over a course of years and then receive a certificate once they've completed a particular number of classes.
All that said, the best part of the conference may not be the preaching and teaching. Equally important and precious is the time in fellowship, and the creation of new friendships that seem to take place at this conference.
If you're interested in CD's or DVD's from the conference you can obtain them via E. K. Bailey Ministries. Check them out online.
Finally, if you're a wonderful sister in CHRIST, the S.T.A.N.D. Conference, hosted by Dr. Sheila Bailey (the widow of Dr. E. K. Bailey); takes place simultaneously with the preaching conference. So ladies, you can go too.
Here's my online shout out to the leadership team at E. K. Bailey Ministries. Thank you for hosting a great conference, at a quality hotel, with good preachers and teachers.
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
Saturday, July 4, 2009
NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE FOR PASTORS & PREACHERS!
HOPE Ministries is scheduled to host a wonderful event we're calling the 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT, October 22nd through October 24th of this year.
I realize that if you're a pastor who has provided your name or that of your church to the U.S. Post Office, the world wide web, or any number of like services- you receive information on countless conferences on a regular basis.
However, know this ... THE 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT IS NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE!!!
It is instead a special time for Growing, Learning and Sharing specifically designed for Senior Pastors. And here's the crazy part... THERE WILL BE NO PREACHING! NO LECTURING! Not even a lecturn, so none of those in attendance will feel the urge to preach.
The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT is something I've desired to do for some time in an effort to have some real conversation with other pastors.
It is a time when we can come together and be revived, refreshed, renewed and yes just relax with other like-minded pastors who take ministry seriously. A time to meet with other Christian men who recognize the fact that they need to "get away".
The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT will take place at the beautiful Wildhorse Pass Resort in south Chandler Arizona. I'm encouraging EVERY pastor, that GOD gives clearance to- to come. It is an ALL-INCLUSIVE Summit. Meaning that once you pay the $709.00; your room, meals and packet are all included!
While my hope is that all pastors in attendance will get a room at the Resort, for those pastors who live in Arizona and don't wish to stay at the Resort, they can register for the SUMMIT ONLY. The cost for this is only $189.00 per person and includes all meals.
Now, if you just balked at that price then you haven't really looked at or attended any pastor or preaching conference lately. There are notable preaching and pastors conferences in Texas, California, Tennessee, etc. who have a registration fee alone that exceed $300.00. THERE REGISTRATION FEE DOES NOT INCLUDE YOUR ROOM OR YOUR MEALS!
The idea for this kind of setting came to me some time ago. Then was modeled for me by my Pastor and friend Dr. Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California. While serving as President of the California State Baptist Convention Pastor Campbell hosted a Pastor's Summit and it was wonderful.
I'm praying that we will have a small group of Pastors who will come and share together. In truth, I don't want a very large group of Pastors, as one of the things I'm hoping to have is a sense of intimacy that only comes with small groups.
In addition to Pastor Fred Campbell our other guest facilitator/conversation leader will be the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth, of Columbus Ohio.
For more information on the 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT check out the HOPE Ministries website at: www.hopeministriesaz.org
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
I realize that if you're a pastor who has provided your name or that of your church to the U.S. Post Office, the world wide web, or any number of like services- you receive information on countless conferences on a regular basis.
However, know this ... THE 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT IS NOT JUST ANOTHER CONFERENCE!!!
It is instead a special time for Growing, Learning and Sharing specifically designed for Senior Pastors. And here's the crazy part... THERE WILL BE NO PREACHING! NO LECTURING! Not even a lecturn, so none of those in attendance will feel the urge to preach.
The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT is something I've desired to do for some time in an effort to have some real conversation with other pastors.
It is a time when we can come together and be revived, refreshed, renewed and yes just relax with other like-minded pastors who take ministry seriously. A time to meet with other Christian men who recognize the fact that they need to "get away".
The 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT will take place at the beautiful Wildhorse Pass Resort in south Chandler Arizona. I'm encouraging EVERY pastor, that GOD gives clearance to- to come. It is an ALL-INCLUSIVE Summit. Meaning that once you pay the $709.00; your room, meals and packet are all included!
While my hope is that all pastors in attendance will get a room at the Resort, for those pastors who live in Arizona and don't wish to stay at the Resort, they can register for the SUMMIT ONLY. The cost for this is only $189.00 per person and includes all meals.
Now, if you just balked at that price then you haven't really looked at or attended any pastor or preaching conference lately. There are notable preaching and pastors conferences in Texas, California, Tennessee, etc. who have a registration fee alone that exceed $300.00. THERE REGISTRATION FEE DOES NOT INCLUDE YOUR ROOM OR YOUR MEALS!
The idea for this kind of setting came to me some time ago. Then was modeled for me by my Pastor and friend Dr. Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California. While serving as President of the California State Baptist Convention Pastor Campbell hosted a Pastor's Summit and it was wonderful.
I'm praying that we will have a small group of Pastors who will come and share together. In truth, I don't want a very large group of Pastors, as one of the things I'm hoping to have is a sense of intimacy that only comes with small groups.
In addition to Pastor Fred Campbell our other guest facilitator/conversation leader will be the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth, of Columbus Ohio.
For more information on the 2009 PASTOR'S SUMMIT check out the HOPE Ministries website at: www.hopeministriesaz.org
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
HAPPY IN-DEPENDENCE DAY!
JESUS said, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow Me".
It's been a while since I've written anything on my blog. In fact, it's been so long that I forgot my password and had to log on to "blogspot" and apply for a new password. Needless to say I received it and I'm writing now.
Since my last blog so much has happened. In the last several days we've watched and witnessed things in our world that have many people on edge. There's the arrest and subsequent sentencing of Lee and Ling in North Korea. There's the bombing and what I call "fist pumping" of North Korea to the rest of the world and the "west" in particular. There's the shameful and sinful behavior connected to the so called "election" by the people of the same old leader in Iraq- followed by the beating and bludgeoning of Iraqi citizens who were bold enough to step up and speak out in protest of this scam.
Most recently we've heard of the death of hollywood personalities, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays; NFL quarterback and 3 time Pro-Bowler, Mr. Steve McNair; and of course the death of Mr. Michael Joseph Jackson.
In Scripture we learn that GOD loves us "ALL THE SAME". However, in this life, if you're Michael Jackson the news and fanfare surrounding your death can ECLIPSE the news surrounding the deaths of other famous people.
Have you asked The LORD like have: "LORD, what are you saying to your people?" "LORD, what lesson(s) do you want your people to learn from all of this?"
I believe that one of the things our GOD would remind all of us of during these days of turmoil, testing and trial is that Triumph only comes through HIM!
I'm writing this on "Independence Day"... July 4th, 2009. But I want to emphasize to all of us who are Christians, followers of The CHRIST, that our independence did not take place when President Abraham Lincoln put pen to paper. It did not take place when Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered on a motel balcony. Equality was not won when Rev. Jesse L. Jackson ran for president of the United States, or when Mr. Barack H. Obama won the position of President of the United States just a few short months ago.
No! Our emancipation, crazy as it sounds is connected to our heart's incarceration by The HOLY SPIRIT when we accepted JESUS CHRIST as our personal LORD and Savior. Our Independence Day is really a day of IN-DEPENDENCE- that is to say we as individuals, towns, cities, states, nations and even the world can accomplish nothing until we bow our knees to The KING OF Kings and LORD OF lords... JESUS CHRIST.
We must recognize our INNER-DEPENDENCE on Him for anything and everything we need, anything and everything we are... each and every second of each and every day.
Real freedom is found in "leaning and DEPENDING" on JESUS CHRIST.
All hail the power of JESUS' name! Let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM! CROWN HIM! CROWN HIM ... LORD OF ALL!
"I came to JESUS just as I was, weary, worn and sad- I found IN HIM a resting place and He has made me glad!
COME TO JESUS (if you haven't already); COME TO JESUS, COME TO JESUS RIGHT NOW!
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
It's been a while since I've written anything on my blog. In fact, it's been so long that I forgot my password and had to log on to "blogspot" and apply for a new password. Needless to say I received it and I'm writing now.
Since my last blog so much has happened. In the last several days we've watched and witnessed things in our world that have many people on edge. There's the arrest and subsequent sentencing of Lee and Ling in North Korea. There's the bombing and what I call "fist pumping" of North Korea to the rest of the world and the "west" in particular. There's the shameful and sinful behavior connected to the so called "election" by the people of the same old leader in Iraq- followed by the beating and bludgeoning of Iraqi citizens who were bold enough to step up and speak out in protest of this scam.
Most recently we've heard of the death of hollywood personalities, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays; NFL quarterback and 3 time Pro-Bowler, Mr. Steve McNair; and of course the death of Mr. Michael Joseph Jackson.
In Scripture we learn that GOD loves us "ALL THE SAME". However, in this life, if you're Michael Jackson the news and fanfare surrounding your death can ECLIPSE the news surrounding the deaths of other famous people.
Have you asked The LORD like have: "LORD, what are you saying to your people?" "LORD, what lesson(s) do you want your people to learn from all of this?"
I believe that one of the things our GOD would remind all of us of during these days of turmoil, testing and trial is that Triumph only comes through HIM!
I'm writing this on "Independence Day"... July 4th, 2009. But I want to emphasize to all of us who are Christians, followers of The CHRIST, that our independence did not take place when President Abraham Lincoln put pen to paper. It did not take place when Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered on a motel balcony. Equality was not won when Rev. Jesse L. Jackson ran for president of the United States, or when Mr. Barack H. Obama won the position of President of the United States just a few short months ago.
No! Our emancipation, crazy as it sounds is connected to our heart's incarceration by The HOLY SPIRIT when we accepted JESUS CHRIST as our personal LORD and Savior. Our Independence Day is really a day of IN-DEPENDENCE- that is to say we as individuals, towns, cities, states, nations and even the world can accomplish nothing until we bow our knees to The KING OF Kings and LORD OF lords... JESUS CHRIST.
We must recognize our INNER-DEPENDENCE on Him for anything and everything we need, anything and everything we are... each and every second of each and every day.
Real freedom is found in "leaning and DEPENDING" on JESUS CHRIST.
All hail the power of JESUS' name! Let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM! CROWN HIM! CROWN HIM ... LORD OF ALL!
"I came to JESUS just as I was, weary, worn and sad- I found IN HIM a resting place and He has made me glad!
COME TO JESUS (if you haven't already); COME TO JESUS, COME TO JESUS RIGHT NOW!
Safe in CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
A NEW AMERICA
JESUS IS LORD... period!
WOW! What a day? What a night? What an experience the last 24 hours, plus have been. I got out of bed around 3:15am on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008. I, like many of you was too excited to sleep. Living in Arizona and realizing that CNN begins it's coverage around 4:00am our time, I went to the living room to get the earliest possible glimpse of the morning's news with respect to this historic Presidential Election and showdown between Senator Barak Obama and Senator John McCain.
Very early on the first return came in from little Dixville, New Hampshire with Barak Obama winning 15 to 6. I was immediately hopeful and excited to hear that news and wanted the rest of the votes to come in just as quickly and with similar results. Of course, you know, that didn't happen.
Angela and I both voted early. Angela by mail and me in person by going to the Courthouse in Mesa Arizona the week prior. I realized that most Americans would be voting the day of the Election. However, considering where I live, the schedule my family maintains, my doubts about integrity with respect to electronic and mail in ballots, etc., I opted to go to the Courthouse early and vote. It only took me 25 minutes or so in line to complete the process.
Now, since I'd already voted, I wanted the election to be over so that I (and the rest of the country), could know the results immediately. Like so many others, I prayed not only that Barak Obama would win, but that he would win decisively. And y'all know the rest... he won!!!
But how we won and where I and my family were- when he won was most significant for me. I did not expect the night to unfold the way it did in terms of where I was and who I was with, but The LORD really blessed the Fort family last night. Here's what happened.
I was blessed to preach at the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona last night. The Annual Session was held at the great First Institutional Baptist Church, Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., Pastor (and the newly appointed President of PMBSC of AZ). Service was scheduled to be from 7:00pm until 9:00pm. However, we started a little late and I was done preaching by 8:30pm.
Dr. Stewart and FIBC already had a "Poll Party" going on in the gymnasium, just across the parking lot from the Sanctuary. That said, as soon as service was over, we all headed over to the Poll Party to watch the returns. Wouldn't you know it- just minutes (maybe even seconds) after arriving at the gymnasium CNN (which was being displayed live on the big screen in the gymnasium); flashed the news across the screen declaring Barak Obama President Elect of the United States of America!!!
Immediately Praise, Prayer, Dancing, Shouting, Solemnity and such... all broke out simultaneously. You had to be there (or be part of the Black Church); to know what I'm talking about!
And there I was, with my wife Angela, my daughters Kiara and Kennedi, members of the Canaan Choir, Usher Board and CMBC family at large; along with members of FIBC and the PMBSC of AZ., and some very close and personal preaching friends inculding Dr. Warren Stewart, his wife, Rev. Karen Curry-Stewart, Dr. David Wade, Pastor Milton Pleasant, Pastor James Harris, Pastor Clayton, Pastor Amos Lewis, Pastor Arthur Lee and many, many others... celebrating this historic and dare I say very possibly holy event!
After several minutes of celebration. The sound on the screen was muted, Dr. Stewart took the microphone, instructed us to hold hands and then led us in a powerful prayer. He began his prayer with the words from the Black National Anthem... he closed the prayer thanking our GOD for His Son, JESUS CHRIST and declaring HIM... the prayer was powerful. Dr. Stewart then led us in singing: "WE HAVE OVERCOME". Again it was powerful.
After that, the music came back up, we watched as Senator John McCain gave I what I believe was a sincere and solemn concession speech. We watched footage from around the world, inter-mixed with footage of the large crowd at Grant Park in Chicago Illinois, where President Elect Barak Obama was scheduled to appear and give his acceptance speech. We watched footage of Kenyan's celebrating Barak Obama's victory in Africa, we watched as people like Roland Martin, Donna Brazille and Jesse Jackson cried tears that no doubt reflected their own joy, relief and pride.
Then, finally, after several minutes Barak Obama appeared on the stage at Grant Park, together with his wife beautiful and brilliant wife Michelle and their two beautiful daughters, Sasha and Malia. The crowd at Grant Park went wild, we went wild in the gymnasium at FIBC. After the normal waving to the audience and then kissing his daughters and wife, President Elect Barak Hussein Obama took center stage and gave one of the most eloquent, clear, inspiring, and humbling speeches I've ever heard.
I must admit, I expected him to be a little emotional, but he was in control. He was Presidential. He was together.
Shortly after his speech, those of us who remained in the Poll Party, in the gymnasium of FIBC began to bid one another good night, with the biggest smiles on our faces- and amazement in our minds. We all agreed that we coudln't wrap our minds around what just happened. We all agreed that we need to be in constant prayer for our new President, all of our leaders and our world at large.
After I got home, (Angela and I drove separate cars); our family gathered in the living room, had a brief conversation, with Angela and I talking to our girls about the significance of what just happened, how they felt, etc.
Then we prayed.
I stayed up a little while longer. Ate something and watched some more television. When I went to bed Angela and I watched television some more, talked some more and fell asleep somewhere close to 1:00am
Well, it's 9:07am here in AZ now. My girls are both still in the bed. They're both "knocked out". We're letting them stay home from school today. I have Bible Study at 12:00pm today. I'm debating what to do. I'm sure I'm not going with our current series. Maybel I'll drop the screen at Canaan and we'll fellowship and talk for the hour???
I wish my Mom and Dad were still alive to witness what happened last night. I talked with my friend Dr. Emil Thomas and Pastor Milton Pleasant on the drive home last night. I called my Aunt (my Mom's last living sister) last night. I called two of my sisters (Melinda and Candice); this morning and look forward to talking with the rest of my family today... those I can get in touch with.
I realize my thoughts, grammar and punctuation may not be what it should be in this post. But please charge it to my being a little tired, a lot excited and really blessed to have seen this day.
Pray for me. Pray for our President (Wow! That sounds nice). Pray for our country and world. Pray for the Canana Church. Pray for one another.
I'll be praying for you.
And remember, Barak is our new President for a term... maybe two. But JESUS CHRIST IS OUR GOD FOR ETERNITY!!! All hail the power of JESUS' name, let angels prostrate fall, bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM LORD of all!
Safe In CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
WOW! What a day? What a night? What an experience the last 24 hours, plus have been. I got out of bed around 3:15am on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008. I, like many of you was too excited to sleep. Living in Arizona and realizing that CNN begins it's coverage around 4:00am our time, I went to the living room to get the earliest possible glimpse of the morning's news with respect to this historic Presidential Election and showdown between Senator Barak Obama and Senator John McCain.
Very early on the first return came in from little Dixville, New Hampshire with Barak Obama winning 15 to 6. I was immediately hopeful and excited to hear that news and wanted the rest of the votes to come in just as quickly and with similar results. Of course, you know, that didn't happen.
Angela and I both voted early. Angela by mail and me in person by going to the Courthouse in Mesa Arizona the week prior. I realized that most Americans would be voting the day of the Election. However, considering where I live, the schedule my family maintains, my doubts about integrity with respect to electronic and mail in ballots, etc., I opted to go to the Courthouse early and vote. It only took me 25 minutes or so in line to complete the process.
Now, since I'd already voted, I wanted the election to be over so that I (and the rest of the country), could know the results immediately. Like so many others, I prayed not only that Barak Obama would win, but that he would win decisively. And y'all know the rest... he won!!!
But how we won and where I and my family were- when he won was most significant for me. I did not expect the night to unfold the way it did in terms of where I was and who I was with, but The LORD really blessed the Fort family last night. Here's what happened.
I was blessed to preach at the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona last night. The Annual Session was held at the great First Institutional Baptist Church, Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., Pastor (and the newly appointed President of PMBSC of AZ). Service was scheduled to be from 7:00pm until 9:00pm. However, we started a little late and I was done preaching by 8:30pm.
Dr. Stewart and FIBC already had a "Poll Party" going on in the gymnasium, just across the parking lot from the Sanctuary. That said, as soon as service was over, we all headed over to the Poll Party to watch the returns. Wouldn't you know it- just minutes (maybe even seconds) after arriving at the gymnasium CNN (which was being displayed live on the big screen in the gymnasium); flashed the news across the screen declaring Barak Obama President Elect of the United States of America!!!
Immediately Praise, Prayer, Dancing, Shouting, Solemnity and such... all broke out simultaneously. You had to be there (or be part of the Black Church); to know what I'm talking about!
And there I was, with my wife Angela, my daughters Kiara and Kennedi, members of the Canaan Choir, Usher Board and CMBC family at large; along with members of FIBC and the PMBSC of AZ., and some very close and personal preaching friends inculding Dr. Warren Stewart, his wife, Rev. Karen Curry-Stewart, Dr. David Wade, Pastor Milton Pleasant, Pastor James Harris, Pastor Clayton, Pastor Amos Lewis, Pastor Arthur Lee and many, many others... celebrating this historic and dare I say very possibly holy event!
After several minutes of celebration. The sound on the screen was muted, Dr. Stewart took the microphone, instructed us to hold hands and then led us in a powerful prayer. He began his prayer with the words from the Black National Anthem... he closed the prayer thanking our GOD for His Son, JESUS CHRIST and declaring HIM... the prayer was powerful. Dr. Stewart then led us in singing: "WE HAVE OVERCOME". Again it was powerful.
After that, the music came back up, we watched as Senator John McCain gave I what I believe was a sincere and solemn concession speech. We watched footage from around the world, inter-mixed with footage of the large crowd at Grant Park in Chicago Illinois, where President Elect Barak Obama was scheduled to appear and give his acceptance speech. We watched footage of Kenyan's celebrating Barak Obama's victory in Africa, we watched as people like Roland Martin, Donna Brazille and Jesse Jackson cried tears that no doubt reflected their own joy, relief and pride.
Then, finally, after several minutes Barak Obama appeared on the stage at Grant Park, together with his wife beautiful and brilliant wife Michelle and their two beautiful daughters, Sasha and Malia. The crowd at Grant Park went wild, we went wild in the gymnasium at FIBC. After the normal waving to the audience and then kissing his daughters and wife, President Elect Barak Hussein Obama took center stage and gave one of the most eloquent, clear, inspiring, and humbling speeches I've ever heard.
I must admit, I expected him to be a little emotional, but he was in control. He was Presidential. He was together.
Shortly after his speech, those of us who remained in the Poll Party, in the gymnasium of FIBC began to bid one another good night, with the biggest smiles on our faces- and amazement in our minds. We all agreed that we coudln't wrap our minds around what just happened. We all agreed that we need to be in constant prayer for our new President, all of our leaders and our world at large.
After I got home, (Angela and I drove separate cars); our family gathered in the living room, had a brief conversation, with Angela and I talking to our girls about the significance of what just happened, how they felt, etc.
Then we prayed.
I stayed up a little while longer. Ate something and watched some more television. When I went to bed Angela and I watched television some more, talked some more and fell asleep somewhere close to 1:00am
Well, it's 9:07am here in AZ now. My girls are both still in the bed. They're both "knocked out". We're letting them stay home from school today. I have Bible Study at 12:00pm today. I'm debating what to do. I'm sure I'm not going with our current series. Maybel I'll drop the screen at Canaan and we'll fellowship and talk for the hour???
I wish my Mom and Dad were still alive to witness what happened last night. I talked with my friend Dr. Emil Thomas and Pastor Milton Pleasant on the drive home last night. I called my Aunt (my Mom's last living sister) last night. I called two of my sisters (Melinda and Candice); this morning and look forward to talking with the rest of my family today... those I can get in touch with.
I realize my thoughts, grammar and punctuation may not be what it should be in this post. But please charge it to my being a little tired, a lot excited and really blessed to have seen this day.
Pray for me. Pray for our President (Wow! That sounds nice). Pray for our country and world. Pray for the Canana Church. Pray for one another.
I'll be praying for you.
And remember, Barak is our new President for a term... maybe two. But JESUS CHRIST IS OUR GOD FOR ETERNITY!!! All hail the power of JESUS' name, let angels prostrate fall, bring forth the royal diadem and crown HIM LORD of all!
Safe In CHRIST,
Sherman J. Fort
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