A Clean Slate

On this last day of 2008.... have you had time to reflect on the past year?

The fantastic, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

A new year represents a new beginning.

Who doesn't need that?!

When I look at my life as a follower of Christ I see so much imperfection.

I always feel somewhat comforted by the words of the great Apostle Paul in Romans 7:

Romans 7:21-24 (NIV) 21 "So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23 but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24 What a wretched man I am!"

Even this "Super Christ Follower" had his struggles!

I can so identify with him.

But there's great hope!

Once we realize where we stand, we recognize we need a Savior.

To go to heaven I need to be sinless.

I can't be.

But Jesus lived that perfect life.

Took the punishment for my sins on the cross.

Stood in my place.

God is both loving and just.

I deserve wrath for my sins.

Jesus said... "I'll endure the wrath for him."

"Father, give him my righteousness in your eyes."

Do we still sin?

Yes.

But we hate it.

We fight it.. daily.

Just like Paul.

But there's joy in the midst of the battle.

Here's what Paul says next:

Romans 7:24-25 (NIV) ...... Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to God--through Jesus Christ our Lord!....

Romans 8:1-2 (NIV) 1 "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."

The blood that paid for my sins yesterday pays for them today.

And tomorrow.

Last year and this coming year.

Jesus rose from the grave as proof that God accepted His sacrifice for me... and for you too.

Accept Christ as your Savior.

Fight sin in the power of the Holy Spirit.

But when the failures come, take heart.

Desire to be obedient to God with everything you've got.

It's what you want to be even if it's not what you are today.

That's the true test.

And remember Jesus is all about new beginnings.

Moment by moment.

Day by day.

He offers a clean slate.

For now.

Forever.

Time To Ponder

Happy Tuesday!

Have you had a chance to do any reading yet this holiday season?

I not only finished the book "Unpacking Forgiveness", I also spent some time chatting with the author, pastor Chris Brauns.

What a great conversation we had!

You'll be able to hear highlights next Monday & Tuesday on our Total Impact segment at 6:25pm Pacific time.

As I told Chris, This is the best book on forgiveness I've ever read.

And I've read a lot of them.

Forgiveness is simple.

And yet so complex.

If you read only one book this year (aside from the Bible of course) I recommend this one.

It'll do you a world of good!

I'll be posting Chris' segments on the blog here next week if you miss them on the air.

Speaking of reading, another Total Impact guest has written some awesome thoughts on one of my favorite passages of Scripture:

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

A big tip of the hat to Ray Pritchard who writes:

Trust
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart." The word "trust" in Hebrew means "to lean with the full body," "to lay upon," "to rest the full weight upon." In our thinking the word trust means to rely upon or to have confidence in. But the Hebrew word is stronger. It has the idea of stretching yourself out upon a bed or resting on a hard surface. The word means to put your full weight on something. To trust in the Lord is to rest your whole weight upon him–to depend on him completely.

Lean
"Lean not on your own understanding." To "lean" means to rest upon something for partial support. Leaning is what you do when you walk with a cane or hold on to a walker because you are unsteady. This word is used for leaning against a tree or a stone cliff. You lean on something when you are not strong enough to stand alone.

Understanding
"Lean not on your own understanding." "Understanding" refers to the mental processes by which you analyze a problem, break it down into its smaller parts, and then make a decision about what you are going to do.
When you take the word "lean" and bring in the idea of "understanding," then add the negative, the meaning is something like this: "Use all your mental powers, but do not lean on them for total support." Don't trust in your own ability to figure out your life. Lean instead on the Lord! Rest your weight on Him!

Acknowledge
"In all your ways acknowledge him." This word deserves extra consideration because the word "acknowledge" can be hard to understand. In the Hebrew this word is an imperative–a command. You could translate this by saying, "In all your ways know him." The Hebrew word means to know deeply and intimately.

Direct
"He will make your paths straight." That brings me to the fifth word, which in the King James Version is translated, "He shall direct your paths." That isn't bad. But I think the ESV translation is a little better: "he will make straight your paths."

Here is God's message to you from Proverbs 3:5-6. If you will know God in every area of your life, he will take personal responsibility to make your way smooth and straight.
He will remove the obstacles if they need to be removed. He will fill in the potholes if they need to be filled. He will redirect the detour so that what seemed to be a dead-end turns out to be the shortest way to reach your destination.

All you have to do is trust in the Lord. Lay yourself completely on him for full support. Don't lean for support on your own human understanding. In all your ways know God intimately.
He will take the path of your life that seems to go up and down and around and sometimes seems to curve backwards, and He will make your way straight.
That's the promise of Almighty God to you."

Awesome insights as we prepare to dive into a new year, don't you think?
See ya on the radio,
Kurt

Dog Gone Funny!

Greetings... and wow... I sure hope you enjoyed your Christmas holiday!
We sure did.
And yes... even though the gift that keeps on giving (my cold) continues to hang on, I'm still in a festive mood.

To all of our listeners in Utah, this video will be old news, quite literally!
But I just couldn't resist posting it on the blog.
If I were still in TV news, this is the kind of story I would attack with gusto.
Throwing me this story would be like throwing a dog a bone.
Click "play" to see what I mean!

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Greg Laurie's 4 Stages Of Christmas

I just ran across this new Christmas cartoon by pastor/evangelist Greg Laurie.

It made me laugh.

Out loud.

Does this mean I identify with the scenario a bit too much....?!

Turns Out The Mall Isn't Just Bad For Our Financial Health...

Okay.

I realize that at this time of the year you have to be careful.

People have their Grinch Radar set on "super sensitive".




And there's a Scrooge Alert going out every second somewhere on the planet.


Bah.

Humbug.

I ran across this piece posted on MSN Health today.

Keep in mind, I LOVE mall food.

But it turns out that it's the gift that keeps on giving.

Click here to see the rundown of the 20 Worst Mall Foods in America:
http://health.msn.com/nutrition/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100229099&GT1=31036

Enjoy.

Or should I say... bon appetit?!

All I Want For Christmas is...My Voice Back!

Happy Monday.
Today, I am but a whisper of myself.
That's because despite my best efforts and positive outlook, I have received an early Christmas present from my two boys.
A Cold.
The Flu.
Shame on you!

When my oldest first fell victim, I was washing my hands all the time, enforcing the sanitary wipe rule, and trying to breathe only sparingly while he was in the room.

I was doing well.

And then my third grader got it.
That's when true paranoia set in.
The two freak snow storms and freezing temperatures didn't help either.

By Saturday morning, the gift had arrived.
Minus the wrapping.
But with love.

The weekend was pretty rough.
And the main reason why I so dread this thing is because I always lose my voice.
Not good for a guy who makes a living talking.

And so I'll be off the air today.
Rats!
But then again, maybe God wants me to stop talking right now and listen more.
Maybe that's a Christmas present I can give someone else.

Man In The Shadows

I keep thinking about Joseph.

He's the man in the shadows when it comes to the Christmas story.

On the fringes of the most spectacular event in human history.

But I admire him so much.

He took on the role of Jesus' earthly father while many people whispered behind his back.

"The boy isn't his, you know".

"How can he accept a child that's not his own?"

"Rumor is Mary had a fling. Why did he still marry her?"

"Mary came up with some crazy story about an angel visiting her..... does he really believe this tall tale?"

But of course God knew what He was doing.

And He was showing us that adoptive parents matter.

A lot.

If you have a few minutes click on the link below to read an awesome article on Joseph.

Especially if you're an adoptive parent.

http://www.crosswalk.com/11596478/

See ya on the radio,

Kurt

A Most Unusual Snow Day

Wow.

I guess I was wrong.

It really is possible for kids in Las Vegas to get a Snow Day.

No school.

No kidding.

But the strange thing for us is that at our house, we didn't see any snow at all.

Rain yes.

Snow no.

It all depended on where you were yesterday.

During the show, when the snow really started coming down, it was a blast to chat with folks all over the valley.

Since we're playing all Christmas music right now, SOS provided the soundtrack for many.

But for the record, I only played "Let It Snow" once.

Even though it was requested countless times!

Such an unusual event in Las Vegas should be celebrated.

My boys will always remember that one December in 2008 when it was an officially declared school district approved Snow Day.

And they didn't even see one flake.

Only in Vegas.

A Lean Christmas?

This Christmas many of us are facing extremely tight budgets.

For those who have lost their jobs, it's much worse than that.

It's all about survival.

As trite as it sounds.... this really is an opportunity for God to become even more real in our lives.

As we see him provide, how our faith grows!

Do we really believe that He'll come through?

And could there be a tremendous blessing in store for us this Christmas if we just have eyes to see it?

I found a wonderful article that blessed me so much on crosswalk.com.

Click on this link to read it: http://www.crosswalk.com/11596466/

Be encouraged!

See ya on the radio,

Kurt

Upside Down In A Field

Today I'm thinking about the shepherds and their role in the Christmas story:

Luke 2:8-17 (ESV) 8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. 10 And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger."

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" 15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us." 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child.

Why were the shepherds chosen for to receive the greatest birth announcement in human history?
Why not a king?
A high priest?
The rich?
The famous?
The influential?

In fact, this question takes on added meaning when we realize how shepherds were regarded at the time of Jesus' birth.
It was NOT cool to be a shepherd.
They were looked down on.
Bottom rung of the social ladder.
Sometimes even despised.
And yet they were chosen for a snapshot of glory.

"It's a boy, and He's the Messiah!"

Author Randy Alcorn states it well:

"What an affront to the religious leaders who were so conspicuously absent from the Divine mailing list. Even from birth, Christ moved among the lowly. It was the sinners, not the self-righteous, he came to save (Mark 2:17).
The proud religionists of Christ's day have faded into obscurity, but the shepherd figure is still honored by Christ followers worldwide".

In fact, Jesus calls Himself the "good shepherd":

John 10:11 (ESV) "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."

The coming of Jesus turned everything upside down.
It's still the same today.

Snow

From the moment my third grader heard about it, he was convinced.

"It'll be a Snow Day, tomorrow Dad. No school!"

It took me back to when I was the kid saying the same exact thing.

One big difference, however.

I lived in Indiana.

Nicolas was born and raised here in Southern Nevada.

A desert rat desperate to see snow AT HIS HOUSE!

Not in the mountains.

At home.

After all, they don't cancel school when it snows in the mountains.

Early this morning, while it was still dark, I looked out the window fully expecting to see snow on the ground.

Nothin'.

I turn on the news.

Oh it's snowing all right.

About 5 miles up the road.

Being the obnoxious Dad I am, I wake Nicolas up.

"Wake up... we're snowed in and school is canceled!!"

He bolts upright in bed.

His eyes are about to pop out of his head.

Some serious optical poptitude going on.

He hops up and looks out the window.

Nothin'.

"Dad!!!!!"

My heart melts.

We turn on the TV and I try to convince him the snow is on the way.

He's not buying it.

As I dropped him off at school, a cold rain mocked us.

A cold rain is a poor replacement for snow.

No matter how old you are.

Just about a half an hour ago, my wife called and said the snow flakes were falling at our house.

Snow loading up the palm trees.

HUGE flakes.

In a few minutes I'll be calling my wife as she arrives to pick up Nicolas from school.

I hope when he comes out he'll see even BIGGER flakes.

Catch a few on his tongue.

And I'll remind him that things in life don't always turn out the way we expect.

Sometimes they turn out better.

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style

Okay... so we're deep into the Christmas season.
Have you lost your focus yet?
Even with the best of intentions... it can happen.

I want to share a piece from Sharon Jaynes here on the blog today.
Sharon has been a guest on our Total Impact segment before, and I love her take on life.
Reading this really helps!
Enjoy.

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style ©By Sharon Jaynes-Proverbs 31 Ministries

If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family - I’m just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family - I’m just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family - It profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir’s cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way.

Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never fails.

Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.

The Right Thing Isn't Always Easy To Do

I don't know when I first got the idea that obeying God would mean a smooth road ahead.
Have you ever fallen into that trap?
It's taken me quite a long time to see it as a trap, in fact.

The more I spend time reading God's Word, the Bible, the more I see how God works.
Not that I have Him figured out.
Or that I can predict what He will do next.
Far from it!
But I do see reality mixed with the supernatural.
Where faith meets real life.

Many times doing what God calls us to do is exceptionally hard.
Jesus said...
John 16:33 ".... In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

Even Jesus..the Holy, perfect Son of God... faced major trouble when He came to this earth.
They tortured Him and nailed Him to the Cross.
If I'm truly a Christ follower why should I expect a smoother road than He had?

The more closely I follow, the more the journey should resemble His.
And so in an imperfect, stumbling way I do follow.

Tradition indicates all of the disciples were killed for their faith, with the exception of John.
But he was severely tortured.

The apostle Paul faced beatings, stonings, whippings, time in rancid jails, etc.
There was a lot of "etc." in his life.

Church history clearly shows us that those who attempt to live Godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

I'm not looking for persecution.
But it's inevitable.
How much better to understand this before the heat gets turned up.

Maybe you have a choice to make today.
You can choose God's way, or another option.
Either way it's not going to be easy.

But the question is... which choice will please the Lord the most?
He'll honor your desire to do the right thing for the right reason.
You'll have peace in the storm.
His Presence in the darkness.
And His blessing when "this too shall pass".

Nick Saint Premieres This Week

Tomorrow at Canyon Ridge Christian Church here in Las Vegas, a musical for the whole family begins its run: Nick Saint.


It's a family show filled with good music and much Christmas Spirit.

The good folks at Canyon Ridge are hoping this production will bless many people.

Especially those who don't know Jesus Christ.

The show will appeal to anyone.

It's a wonderful opportunity to invite friends and family to church without inviting them to.. well.... church.

A wholesome, non-threatening atmosphere and a chance to enjoy live theatre.

Maybe they'll drop their guard a bit and eventually attend a worship service in the days around Christmas.

God can work in many ways.

Remember those mysterious ways we talk so much about?!

There are 4 performances: Thursday at 7pm, Friday at 7pm, and Sunday at 3 & 7pm.
Tickets are $14.

But if you have kids.. come early.

They've got a Christmas carnival set up outside of the auditorium.

And hey.. every child is a winner!!!

For a look at the heart of the production join us for our Total Impact segment tonight.

It airs at 6:25pm Pacific time.

Rory Johnston, the writer of musical, is our guest.

He also happens to be the Creative Arts Director at Canyon Ridge.

You can listen online at: http://www.sosradio.net/


Also, check out the show's official website: http://www.nicksaintmusical.com/

This is not only a lot of fun, but a tangible way to begin "planting seeds" in someone's life.

Someone who may be searching for some-thing this Christmas season.

A gift that lasts forever.

Angels: I'm No Longer Unaware

Angels play a big part in the Christmas story.

Mary is visited by Gabriel, and he explains how she will give birth to the Savior.

A birth so fantastic there will never be another one like it.

Ever.

An angel appears to Joseph and gives him a heads up on this amazing plan of God.

The shepherds encounter angels while watching their flock.

Angels are God's messengers.

His servants.

And they're everywhere.

Truth is, I don't think much about them.

And my guess is they're not all that offended.

After all, their job is to bring glory to God.

Not themselves.

But remembering their work on behalf of us... the followers of Christ.. is something I can get better at.

As I set up the Nativity Set this year.

As I attend that church play.

As I decorate.

Glory be to God.

And a special "thank you" to any angels in the room right now.

You are appreciated.

Exodus 23:20 (ESV) 20 "Behold, I send an angel before you to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place that I have prepared."

The Detour

Well, we finally did it this weekend.
Our family Christmas tree is up!
All we have to do is finish decorating it.
As I mentioned last week on the show, our intention was to have it up the weekend after Thanksgiving.

Didn't happen.
Life DID happen.
Too much stuff to bore you with the details, but have you ever been there?

You've got your "To Do List" all ready to go.
It looks nice.
You worked hard on it.
It's literature, for goodness sake!
That's when I think God is trying to teach me patience.
"I don't have time right now to learn how to be patient!"
God smiles.
Occasionally I do too.

As we were getting the Christmas tree out of it's box in the garage, and going through all of the ornaments... we discovered treasures from Christmas' past.
My wife found an old "Dancing Santa" for instance.
It kind of looks like this one:

He dances to "Jingle Bell Rock".
Or.... he once did.
Would he still be able to bust a move?
We plugged him in.
Hit the power switch. The music starts.

Two of our dachshunds start barking at him.

We wait for Santa to swing his hips.
But.. he's lost his swing.
His hips move right.. and stay there.
We wait.
And wait.
But because we lack patience ( remember?!) we try to help him out.
Maybe He's just rusty.
Get the W-D 40!

The song plays.
It doesn't work.
But it's hilarious.
Laughter at Santa's expense.
We wanted him to bust a move.
He actually busted a hip.
Life happens.
And every now and then you realize a detour can be more fun than the trip you had planned.

From Bitter To Sweet

Exodus 15:22-25 (ESV) 22 Then Moses made Israel set out from the Red Sea, and they went into the wilderness of Shur. They went three days in the wilderness and found no water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter; therefore it was named Marah. 24 And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What shall we drink?" 25 And he cried to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a log, and he threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. There the Lord made for them a statute and a rule, and there he tested them..

These verses keep popping up in my mind.
I mentioned them on the show yesterday, and they're sticking with me.
Has something like that ever happened to you?
I figure God wants me to "camp out" on them a little bit.

Isn't it amazing that just 3 days after God rescued the Israelites from certain death by parting the Red Sea here they are complaining.
It's like they totally forgot the experience of a lifetime.
That the God who delivered them before would deliver them again.

You know what this sounds like?
It sounds like me.
God delivers me.
I thank Him.
Another crisis comes.
I forget (or choose not to remember) how he helped me before.
Will He REALLY come through THIS TIME?
Oh me of little faith.

The truth is God tests our trust in Him through need AND abundance.
Have you noticed how that works in your life as a Christian?
It sure isn't easy.
But hopefully, our "faith muscles" are being exercised.
That's the only way they'll ever get stronger.

If you're in need right now... the "water" in your life is bitter.. remember this is a test of trust.
When the time is right, God will replace the bitter with the sweet.
And my guess is that you won't be the same person anymore.
That's the whole idea.

Celebrate Christmas Without a Bible

Interesting title for today's blog entry, isn't it?

Operation Bare Your Bookshelf is up and running.

The goal is to provide Bibles for our brothers and sisters in Christ who don't have one.

Christian Resources International is the ministry that is spearheading the initiative.

Fred Palmerton is the executive director of CRI.

He told The Christian Post today......."If American Christians were willing to keep one family Bible and send the rest of their Bibles overseas...millions more people would be exposed to the life changing effects of God's Word."

Can you believe there are entire churches in some parts of the world where there isn't even ONE Bible?

Not one in the church building, if they have a building.

Not one in any of the homes.

The pastors don't even have one copy.

A famine of God's Word in the land.

Can you imagine trying to live the Christian life without a Bible?

It convicts me.

They would give almost anything for just one.

And I let my copy.....or copies... gather dust on the shelf.

If you would like to donate some of your extra Bibles, there's an easy way to do it through CRI.

Click on this link to find out more: http://cribooks.homestead.com/bareyourbookshelf.html

Let's light the path of our fellow believers half a world away.

May they no longer walk in darkness when we have the ability to help light up their path.

One Bible at a time.

Psalms 119:105 (ESV) Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

God Is In Control Of.......Everything.

There are so many truths about the Christian faith I need to be reminded of on a daily basis.

I guess that's because truth leaks.

Think about it for a second.

Our spiritual life is a balloon.

We fill it with helium and it flies high.

For awhile, anyway.

Days pass and before long you know what happens.

That very same balloon isn't soaring.

In fact it may be an inch off the ground, if that.

To rise again it needs to be FILLED again.

With the right stuff.

Same thing for us as followers of Christ.

One of the most comforting things to think about is God's sovereignty.

He's in control.

All the time.

No exceptions.

No regrets.

He is... the King.

On His throne.

Holy and just, absolutely.

Good and kind and loving and merciful.... Yep. All of that too.

The story that most illustrates this for me out of the Bible involves Joesph.

You can read the story for yourself starting in Genesis 37.

It will encourage you no matter where you are in life.

But especially if you're in a dark and confusing time.

Recently I was speaking with with author/bible teacher Steve Farrar about Joesph's story and how it applies to us today.

He talks a lot about it in a new book, "God Built".

If you have some time, check out Steve's visit to our Total Impact segment.

And be filled up with God's great truth.

You'll be soaring again soon.

Steve Farrar Part 1: http://www.box.net/shared/j9t4mtuh5t

Steve Farrar Part 2: http://www.box.net/shared/28lzxuvvbo

Mark Hall vs.Bart Millard:Heavyweight Challenge?

Tis the season for.... watching your weight.
I watch mine all right.
I watch it go up with every Christmas treat I eat.
Of course it's cumulative.
Candy in late October, Turkey and the fixins on Thanksgiving, THEN the Christmas delicacies, man oh man.
Isn't self-denial a trait we as Christians should strive for?
Never easy, is it?

Just ask Mark Hall....

and Bart Millard.

Mark is the lead singer for the band Casting Crowns, and Bart is the frontman for MercyMe.
They've thrown down the gauntlet.

Who can lose the most weight by the Dove Awards this spring.
The video says it all.
And Oh Yeah.... I think these guys might need our prayers, too.

Cyber Monday!

So... how was your Thanksgiving weekend?
Lots of turkey?
Lots of bargains if you were brave enough to head out early on Black Friday?
For me it was.... lots of turkey.
My blood doesn't run cold enough to brave Black Friday.
But if yours does.... or did... I send along my admiration.

I prefer Cyber Monday.
The name isn't as ominous.
It's really not even very catchy.
In fact, it sounds kind of dorky.

But before you call in the Geek Squad, think about some of the cash you can save today online.
Here are some websites to get you started:

1. Cyber Monday, http://www.cybermonday.com/: This site aggregates the latest online bargains from more than 500 merchants. It even highlights the best hourly savings online.

2. Gotta Deal,: http://www.gottadeal.com/ It works like a spy site for shopping bargains. It has an e-mail service that sends out the day's best deals.

3. Deals on the Web, http://www.dealsontheweb.com/ : Just what its name says, but the site specializes in technology and home electronics.

4. : http://www.overstock.com/ It works with brand-name companies and helps clear out overstocked items at clearance prices.

You can Google Cyber Monday and find many others.
Or simply check some of your favorite retail websites, both large and small.
Make sure you also check out your favorite Christian websites because they too might have some great deals!

All of this is fun, no doubt.
But we need to remind each other throughout the Christmas season what Christmas is really all about.
To us a Savior is born.
Jesus came into the world to take the punishment for our sins.
We have peace with God.
Eternal life in Heaven.
That's the only Christmas gift that really matters, isn't it?
And it lasts forever.

Giving Thanks

On this day before Thanksgiving, I'm thinking about more than tomorrow's feast.

I'm thinking about how good God is.

And how I so often forget to thank Him.

Even in the tough times, there are many things to be thankful for.

Things that aren't affected by the economy, the state of our relationships, the bad behavior of others, the pain of illness, or even the loneliness that arrives when you least expect it.

As followers of Christ we have:

1) Our salvation. On the worst days we can take heart that we are forgiven and we're heaven bound. Thank you Jesus, for purchasing that forgiveness by dying for my sins on the Cross.

2) The promises of God in the Bible.

Even if we lose everything those two brilliant things will remain.

Stand on the Gospel.

Stand on the promises.

Give thanks for both.

And then give thanks that you're able to read this blog.

To see.

To breathe.

To love.

I bet you can add many other things to that list.

Me too.

The 10 Unhealthiest Holiday Foods

Thanksgiving is just a couple of days away.

Visions of turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing, pumpkin pie... all dance in my head.

Why is it the stuff that tastes the best is the WORST for you?

One of life's great mysteries, I guess.

As we prepare to dig in this year... I thought you might want to share my guilt.

I wonder if your Thanksgiving dinner will include anything on Prevention magazine's 10 Unhealthiest Holiday Food List.

Click on this link for the slide show:

http://health.msn.com/nutrition/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=100220702&GT1=31036

Hmm.....

Is it time for lunch yet?

Is It You?

I love this story of Jesus coming to the disciples in the middle of the night on the Sea of Galilee.
The storm is raging.. and they glance at something... no.. SOMEONE approaching them:

Matthew 14:26-31 (ESV) 26 when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, "It is a ghost!" and they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." 28 And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." 29 He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

This weekend as I was reading these verses I saw something I never really considered before.
Jesus says.. "Hey Guys.... it's me!"
And yet Peter says.... "Lord... IF IT IS YOU......"

He was looking for some confirmation before he stepped out of the boat.
"If it's you in the midst of this storm Jesus.. show me."
"The wind is blowing, the waves are crashing, I can't see very well."
"Can you reassure me?"
Jesus says... "Come."

What mercy for a disciple who finds in himself a mixture of fear and belief.
An odd combination of faith and doubt.
Peter is a lot like me.

In your storm do you need to know what to do?
What step of faith you need to take?

"Jesus if it's you calling me to.........(fill in the blank) will you make it clear?"

The Lord gave Peter a confirmation before he hopped overboard to stroll on the water.
And the Lord was there when doubt blew in with the next wind gust.
The next massive wave.

Do you need confirmation in the midst of YOUR storm?
Jesus will give it to you.
When you need it.

And even so you might get "that sinking feeling" at some point as you step out.
He didn't let Peter go under.
He won't let you go under either.

Sharathon Day Three!

It's the final day of Sharathon!
A million thanks to all who have stepped out to support the work of SOS so far.
Can I just say thank you?
Thank you!

It's early in the morning and I thought I would check in with you before things get super busy.

Usually the final day is filled with all kinds of twists and turns as we head down the home stretch.
Don't forget you can give online at http://www.sosradio.net/sharAThon/shareAThon2008.html

God is so faithful!
He knows how much we need to serve you in the coming year.
And He also knows about how much you need in these tough economic times.
Let's hang onto His promise:

Philippians 4:19 (NIV) And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Blessings to you and yours!

Sharathon Day Two!

These are the first few minutes I've had all day to check in with you.
That's a good thing!
It means we're seeing a lot of action for day two of Sharathon!

Thank you so much for praying for us as we invite folks to invest in the ministry going on here at SOS.
It's been so much fun.

And wouldn't you know it, even in the midst of these 3 days of celebration God keeps reminding us it's all about ministry.

The stories of God's faithfulness from listeners continue to be amazing.
But in addition to that, I've had the opportunity to chat and pray for people one on one here at our studios.

What a privilege.
In the midst of the flurry of activity, these quiet moments on the sidelines remind me of why we do what we do every day.

It's a sacred trust.
Pray for us as we pray for you.
And support us if you can!

We thank God for you,
Kurt

Sharathon 2008 Day One

Wow. As I write this it's pretty early.

Gimme that coffee.

Okay.

Gimme some more!

Better.

I just wanted to make sure I checked in with you before things get REALLY crazy around here for Sharathon 2008.

I just ran down to the Phone Zone and our first 10 volunteers are all smiles!

They really are passionate about the ministry going on here at SOS.

What a huge encouragement for us!

Thank you so much for your prayers as we head into these very important three days.

We're commercial free, and all of our funding comes from folks like you.

If we have blessed you in any way, will you prayerfully consider supporting us on a regular basis?

Whatever you feel led to give is so appreciated!

Here's a link to give online:

http://www.sosradio.net/sharAThon/shareAThon2008.html

Join us on the air for the next few days.

It's so exciting to see how God provides.

It always builds my faith.

I know it will build yours too.

See Ya On The Radio,

Kurt

Sharathon: One Day Away!

Preparations for Sharathon are wrapping up this afternoon.

Those of us on the air have pretty much finished our production work.

Volunteers by the car loads have been trained on the computer system.

A thousand and one details have been checked and re-checked.

Awesome!

Wednesday through Friday we'll be asking you to invest in the ministry of SOS.

We're non-commercial, which means non-stop ministry and music.

No reason to stop for commercials!

The way we stay on the air is through the gifts of God's people.

People like you.

We're working hard to serve God every day by serving you.

I sure hope SOS has been a big encouragement to you and your family this year.

Will you ask God to show you if this is a ministry He wants you to support?

There are so many wonderful ministries doing God's work.

We're thankful for each and every one of them!

But over the next 3 days we're going to extend the invitation to join with us.

I hope you'll prayerfully consider our invitation.

Especially if we're a blessing to you!

Please pray for us.

We appreciate it more than you could ever know.

To God be the Glory!

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV) 20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Happy Monday!

Many may think the greeting "Happy Monday" is an oxymoron.

You know, two words that don't go together but are used together.

They say as nicely as possible... "those two words don't go together.. you moron!!!"

Maybe they just need a more positive outlook on life.

Or perhaps a few anger management sessions would help.

I can't hide it: we're excited about this week here at SOS Radio.

Our fall Sharathon begins on Wednesday.

Since we're non-commercial Christian radio, we serve you through the gifts of God's people.

That's the way God has sustained this ministry for pretty close to 3 decades.

I can't wait to see how he is going to provide for YOUR SOS station this year!

I hope you've already committed to pray for us during this time.

And maybe you've read all about Sharathon on the website.

Thanks!

One thing I want to mention.. just in case you might have missed it... is the Caedmon's Call autographed guitar we're auctioning off to help raise money.

You can find it on Ebay by clicking this link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220313553306

You can help us AND get a really neat guitar.

I'm thinking this might make a great Christmas present for someone... hint hint!!

This week here on the blog things might be a bit out of the ordinary because of all of the action going on here at our network headquarters in Las Vegas.

But I'm sure we'll all do out best to keep you "posted."

Quite literally!

See Ya On The Radio,

Kurt

Smiles

Last night we had such a great time at the Matthew West concert here in Las Vegas!

Thanks to all who dropped by the SOS Booth to chat.

There's nothing quite like connecting face to face with you guys!

It's pretty obvious many are dealing with challenging times.

I hope we can be an encouragement to you in some way.

I know I was encouraged by a few conversations I had last night.

I spoke with a Christ follower who does some street preaching here in Las Vegas.

He's had to deal with a lot of opposition and spiritual attack this year.

He smiles through the pain.

Being bold for Christ can sometimes make you feel like you're walking around with a target on your back.

Or a sign that says... "kick me".

And yet he continues to run the race with his eyes on Jesus who said...

John 15:18-20 (ESV) 18 "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours."

Another guy who works for a ministry told me that he's being laid off from his job in a couple of months. He's having a hard time finding work.

HE was smiling too.

"The Lord has something exciting for me I just know it!" he told me.

I believe him because he believes Jesus:

Matthew 6:31-33 (ESV) 31 "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

A woman who is disabled won tickets through our on air giveaway.

She's a retired school teacher who impacted many children's lives in the public schools here.

When school officials wouldn't allow her to host a Bible Club on campus, she just moved the meeting to a public park next door.

Once a week after school she would lead a fun, age appropriate Bible study for kids.

She started with one child.

When she retired, 75 kids on average would attend.

She had to retire for health reasons.

She lives by herself.

She still misses those classes.

She smiles.

"God is so good. He has a new ministry in mind for me now. I can't wait to see what it is!"

Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

And then there was this truly inspirational couple from Pahrump, Nevada.

What great folks!

The husband has been out of work for about 14 months now.

Add two more smiles to the list, by the way.

They've tapped out their 401k to survive.

At first, they were beside themselves for having to take money out of the account.

But now, they see the wisdom of God in it.

The past 14 months they have spent tons of time together and it's made all the difference in their marriage.

"Just think," she says. "Given the economy and the stock market, we figure that money would have been gone anyway. We got to invest it in something truly special."

They wouldn't have traded this precious time with each other for a million dollar retirement fund.

Really.

"The best 14 months of our lives" the husband says.

Romans 8:28 (ESV) And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Reflecting on these snapshots of faith in real life, I can't help it.

I find a smile sneaking up on me too.

Do you?

Luis Palau And Banana Peels: Profound Stuff

I just ran across an article that really hit me right between the eyes. It's from The Christian Post.

It's by a guy who remains one of the kindest, most gracious people I've ever had the privilege of interviewing: Evangelist Luis Palau.

He brings up some deep, significant points.

And he makes them simple enough to remember!

I don't know about you, but it's always helpful to me when the "cookies" are placed on the lower shelf.. where I can enjoy them.
Take a couple of minutes to slowly read through this piece.
You'll be all the better for it.
I know was!
See ya on the radio,
Kurt

Avoiding Spiritual Banana Peels
By Luis Palau
Christian Post Guest Columnist

Only four chapters in the Bible remain silent about sin and its dangers - the first two and the last two. Since Adam and Eve found themselves naked under the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, sin has been the lowest common denominator throughout the human race.

The apostle John spells this out clearly: "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8).

The deadliest sin is assuming we have no sin. None of us is free from the possibility of committing evil. Until we enjoy fruit from the tree of life in glory someday, we must admit our vulnerability.

"If you’re saying some sin could never get you," Dr. Howard Hendricks writes, "you’re about to step on a spiritual banana peel."

You and I both know of Christian leaders and lay people who have "suddenly" fallen into sin. Everything seemed to be going well for them, but one left his wife for another woman, or one attempted suicide, or one became an alcoholic.

How does this happen? Dr. George Sweeting comments, "Collapse in the Christian life is rarely a blowout - it’s usually a slow leak."

Our spiritual lives are punctured and in danger of collapse whenever we lose sight of who God is. To the degree that we do not know God, we sin.

Sin is man’s declaration of independence. The first step away from God is ceasing to appreciate who God is and failing to thank Him for His person and work in our lives.

Unthankfulness and other forms of disobedience - whether in deed, thought, or desire - produce certain results.

When we sin the Holy Spirit is grieved, Satan gains a foothold, we lose our joy in Christ, we find ourselves separated from God and other people, we become stumbling blocks to weaker believers, and we cause untold sorrow and grief.

Take spiritual inventory in your own life. Consider: Who is God in my eyes? What is my relationship with Him like? How often do I give thanks to Him?

Meditate on such passages as Psalm 34, Psalm 63:1-8, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24. Determine ways to apply these passages to your own life.

What comes to mind when you think about God is the most important thing about you. What comes from your lips throughout the day indicates whether or not you see and appreciate His sovereignty, His grace, and the other attributes of His deity.

Is the Lord speaking to your heart?

How is your relationship with Him? Confess any known sins to God, and decide that by God’s enabling you will live a life of holiness. Speak forth the praises of the Lord you love, and faithfully obey Him.
Collapse in the Christian life never needs to happen!

From Faster To Pastor

Life in the fast lane.

Literally.

Ray Reeder was an outlaw biker.

Translation: the toughest in a world of tough.

So tough in fact that when these guys write tough they spell it "tuff".

Drugs, crime, chasing women, violence.

Just another day for Ray Reeder.

"But Jesus."

Two words that changed his life now and forever.

With his past, how can he be a pastor?

He tears up when he talks about that part of his story.

I know.

I sat across from him in the studio just a few days ago.

Ray is a trophy of God's grace.

We all are if we accept Christ.

Believing He died on the Cross to take the punishment for our sins so we can be forgiven by a Holy God.

That He rose from the grave and is alive today.

Proof that God accepted that sacrifice.

None of us will ever be good enough to deserve it.

It's a gift!

And we never outgrow that gift.

We need forgiveness every day of our life.

You may be feeling a bit down today.. thinking about YOUR past.

Take heart.

And listen to the story of God's amazing grace extended to an outlaw biker who was traveling faster and faster in the wrong direction.

The details may be different.

But really it's our story too.

Click here for the first part of my interview with Ray on Total Impact.

Total Impact-Ray Reeder: http://www.box.net/shared/bct0oq3ks2

And listen tonight at 6:10pm Pacific for Part 2.

You can listen online: http://www.sosradio.net/mainIndex.html

See ya on the radio,

Kurt

Aiming At The Right Target

This morning I picked up my Bible and found myself in the book of Proverbs.

Truth in a nutshell.

Every verse is jam packed with lots of truth in a small package.

These are the verses that stopped me dead in my tracks:

(Prov 3:3-4 NKJV) Let MERCY and TRUTH never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

All mercy means anything goes in the name of love.

Truth takes a backseat.

Or no seat at all.

Jesus said...

(John 14:15 NIV) "If you love me, you will obey what I command."

All truth can make you a harsh legalist.

Paul said....

(1 Cor 13:1 NIV) "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal."

I want to work more balance into my Christian life.

I always seem to hit the extremes instead of landing in the middle.

May Jesus be my model:

(John 1:14 NIV) "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of GRACE and TRUTH."

I may not hit the bull's eye.

I may hit innocent by-standers.

I may even shoot myself in the foot a few times.

Make that many times.

But the God of grace and truth helps me pick up the arrows.

Encourages me to try again.

Thank you, Lord.

I want to be even more like you with the next shot.

Need Some Extra Cash?

A challenging time when it comes to finances isn't it?

God promises to meet our needs as followers of Christ.

He can do that in all kinds of ways.

Maybe it will be an unexpected and unsolicited check in the mail.
Or just maybe that washer that's already 19 years old will last another 5.

I believe God can do that.
What's that to the God who created the universe?!
Sometimes we make God small and our problems BIG.
I'm talking to myself here.
God can also provide through the encouragement of others who have had to cope with tough financial times.

Like Christian author and speaker Donna Partow.
Donna has been a guest on our Total Impact segment several times.
Not long ago, she and her family faced a scary time when her husband lost his job.
They had to get creative.
And what she learned is both practical and uplifting.

There is hope!
There are quick ways to generate some income right there at home.
Take a listen to my recent conversation with Donna.

Donna Partow on Total Impact: http://www.box.net/shared/vxjust6thk

You'll find out how her faith (and the faith of her family) was strengthened in the midst of their financial storm.

Be encouraged,
Kurt

Barney: "Take That!"

When I was in journalism school, they always defined news this way:

News isn't when a dog bites a man

News is when a man bites a dog.

No exceptions.

Really?

I have one.

It's news when the dog lives in the White House.


Barney, did you do it just to make the news?

Maybe you're just trying to change your image with the press.

Or maybe you think it's time someone bit the paparazzi instead of it being the other way around.

As a dog lover, I've noticed something over the years.

Dogs are generally good judges of character.

If a dog likes you that says a lot.

Rabid, bloodthirsty, and neurotic dogs aside of course.

Sink your teeth into this video of Barney's recent encounter.





I wonder if this video will end up on Barney's official website?

Probably not.

But you can check out some more flattering SNAP-shots there.

Pun intended.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/barney/

Matthew West: Something To Say

We're really excited to welcome Matthew West to Las Vegas a week from today.

He and Josh Wilson will be in concert at Trinity Life Center.

For more specifics click here:
http://www.sosradio.net/concert.html

The concert is going to be the perfect way to get us ready for the SOS Fall Sharathon which runs November 19-21.

We're listener supported Christian radio, and Sharathon is your chance to partner with us in ministry to thousands!

It's a party both on and off the air.
In fact, if you would like to volunteer to help us behind the scenes here in Las Vegas, please give our volunteer coordinator a call: (702) 731-5452.
We'd love to have you!

Matthew West joined us on the afternoon show yesterday.
We talked about a lot of good stuff.
Everything from his "season of silence" due to problems with his vocal cords to his "Something To Say" tour.
God really has given him "something to say".
It's a message that might encourage you today.

If you missed our conversation, click on the links below for some highlights.
I know you'll be blessed!
Matthew West Part 1: http://www.box.net/shared/zojmbg7s9l
Matthew West Part 2: http://www.box.net/shared/1414astbtd

A Choice

Recently I was reading these verses out of the book of Genesis:

Genesis 3:1-6 (ESV) 1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, "Did God actually say, 'You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?"

2 And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, 3 but God said, 'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, either shall you touch it, lest you die.'

4 But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate."

After reading and thinking about these familiar verses... it hit me.
God put the one "forbidden tree" in the midst of the garden.
Right where Adam and Eve would see it.
The fruit on it’s branches were obviously edible.
It looked delicious.
So why was it there where they could probably see it every day?

I think part of the answer is that there’s something about true love that leaves the door open to the possibility of rebellion.
God wants us to say to Him with all of our heart… YOU ARE ENOUGH!
I choose you above all else.
That moment comes to each of us as followers of Christ.


Have you had a big "crossroads moment" yet in your life?
The choice between Jesus and something or someone else.
A classic quote: "A faith that hasn't been tested can't be trusted".

It's a defining moment when we choose to follow Christ no matter what.
Even if he doesn't understand.
Even if she leaves.
Even if people think I'm a fanatic.
Even if my job will be in jeopardy.

At that moment do we love God more than the opinions of other people?
Do we love God's Word more than the word of even those closest to us?

This isn't easy... is it?

True love leaves the door open to rebellion.
True love chooses not to go through it.
Matthew 6:21 (ESV) " For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Get Out The Vote!

So... have you voted today?

Maybe you were an early voter.

Bravo!

My wife and I always like to vote on Election Day.

We were up early, at the polls within 20 minutes of the opening bell.

I thought it might be packed considering Nevada is a swing state this time around.

But it was kind of quiet.

A few folks casting ballots.

A few tumbleweeds blowing across the floor.

Ah well.

Maybe I was just too early for the crowds.

That's a good thing!

Hopefully, we're all praying for God's will in this election.

As I mentioned on the air, it's possible God's will might be different from our own.

That's where trust comes in.

Remember: He's still in control!

If you have a minute or so, read this Billy Graham Q & A from The Christian Post.

Good stuff to think about.. especially today!

Did Jesus Say Anything About Voting?
By Billy Graham
Christian Post Guest Columnist

Q: People keep urging me to vote but I think it's just a waste of time. I care what happens to our country and all that, but I don't think one vote makes any difference. And anyway, Jesus never said anything about voting, did He? - S.F.

A: Jesus didn't live in a democracy; the people of His day couldn't vote and they had no choice about who would rule them. Decades before Jesus' birth, the Romans had invaded that part of the world and they maintained their power by brute force.

But Jesus did teach us to be good citizens, and to work for a better world. The people of His day couldn't do much to change their world, but He said they should do whatever they could - and so should we. "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's," Jesus told His listeners when they asked Him if they should pay their taxes (Mark 12:17).

The Bible also tells us to pray for those who are involved in government, "that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:2).

Let me ask you the same question I've asked others who say they aren't going to the polls because their vote won't matter: What would happen if everyone felt the way you do? You know the answer: In time, our democracy would come to an end. Don't take our freedoms for granted, and don't take our system of government lightly.

Ask God to guide you as you vote - and then make the effort to get to the polls during this election. And once the election is over, pray for those who have been elected, that they may seek God's will for our nation - and do it.