Tuesday, September 30, 2014

A Christmas Story, Part 1 Prologue

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The following is a regular update which will be taking place on a weekly basis. It consists of the new book I am writing called A Christmas Story. I am going to be attempting to post a chapter a week up until the final posting, hopefully Christmas week. There are also hopes and plans to have the book published after the Christmas Season in book form.  The book and story are fully copyrighted and while that is the case, as long as appropriate credit is given, I welcome you sharing the page.  I also welcome donations if possible to help cover costs, expenses and time for the writings. Every small bit helps and if you click on any of the pages, or visit www.mosaicwichita.com you can click on the donation links.  It should be noted that 100% of revenues that come in go to support the ministry and work of The Virtual Pew and Mosaic. I take no profits from this work at this time outside of reimbursements.  Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy the story. 



A Christmas Story
Prologue 
By: Mike Furches 
Copyright Mike Furches 2014

www.thevirtualpew.com

 A Christmas Story is inspired by a story heard on the James Dobson radio show, Focus on the Family back in the early 1990’s. This fictional work is written with many Christian concepts in mind that were once taught in many if not most Anabaptist Churches and still taught in some.

As one who didn't grow up in a Christian home I have come to appreciate and love Mennonites and consider myself a Mennonite in the application of my own theology in my own life. I hope the truth, love and compassion once so prevalent in this belief system is demonstrated here. Hopefully this work will pay tribute to the thousands of Mennonites who died for their faith during the Reformation for practicing simple concepts like adult baptism and living a lifestyle of ultimate love for others no matter what the consequence.
While the Mennonite church has historically loved all people and reached out to them with the love of Christ, many churches, especially in North America, could do a better job at reaching out to inner city youth, the unchurched, minorities and especially those seen as being different than themselves. I have had disagreements with pastors in a church I was attending about who our focus of outreach should be towards. I believe that particular church made a mistake when they targeted a certain age group, from a certain social economic environment, specifically in certain neighborhoods. The neighborhood the church was reaching out too was middle to upper class families and most were home owners. It isn’t that the Church shouldn’t have directed efforts towards this group but the lack of effort to try and understand the culture and lifestyles of those not from higher income communities, absent from an acceptance of a Christian World-View and in some cases, people living across the street who lived in lower income homes and trailers was foreign for me.  This was especially true when considering that many lower income neighborhoods was also within the geographical area the church was reaching out to, yet those areas and communities were largely ignored. For one who had studied the incarnational concepts of faith, that is Jesus came and associated with us, was even known of as Jesus of Nazareth. He chose to associate with all people, but especially those who had little, the poor, not just in spirit, but financially.
As is often the case, churches seem to build their attendance around the communities where there is money. Unfortunately, this is one of the areas many Mennonite congregations and Anabaptist groups have moved to in recent years, reaching the wealthy, staying away from the poor, and not understanding the culture around them. While there is urban outreach at times it seems the urban outreach that exists, exists in affluent communities as opposed to the inner cities and impoverished neighborhoods. I have more than a few personal stories about conversations I have had at times on this subject with various church leaders from various denominational groups, both including and excluding, Mennonites. 
Churches often reach out to people they expect to be like them, the concept of reaching out to those different is lost, it is one reason it is so easy to do mission work in another country than in your own neighborhood. There are times there is little room or time for grace, understanding and what many people of faith call that concept of incarnation. Many believe the church should make the effort to try and better understand those they are reaching out to and at the very least not show any partiality to income or financial status. Jesus spent a great deal of time teaching and speaking to others about the poor and needy, the orphan and the widow.
Jesus commanded his followers to be fishers of men, not certain men but all men. One obvious conclusion if understanding this concept of being a fisher of men is that one should use the right type of bait when fishing for certain types of men. There has to be an understanding that different types of men may require different types of bait. Most successful fishermen learn to fish for more than one kind of fish, thus learning the traits for each type of fish they are trying to catch. As followers of Jesus and as the Church, we should learn to be fishers of various types of men and women, not just the wealthy, and those like us, but all fish that dwell in our own little part of the ocean. For those who have been diving in waters, whether the ocean or a lake, sea or river, you know, more than one fish occupies any given territory. A fisherman must know the territory, and how to catch the fish, whether a preverbal or allegorical fish, or a real fish.
I have often asked myself why churches seem to only reach out to certain groups while at the same time never making serious efforts, if any, to reach out to the types of people Jesus seemed to so blatantly love and care for? I can’t help but to imagine if Jesus were walking around to day He would reach out to those with drug issues, marriage problems, the homeless, those oppressed by war or societal issues and poverty or money issues among others. Those are the ones often called, The Lost, The Last, and The Least. I have to wonder though, is it those we call this who are the Lost The Last and The Least, or has the Church fallen into those categories? I am not so sure about the terms we used, but I like to call them the hurting, the misunderstood, and those needing Jesus for not just spiritual salvation, but salvation from their circumstance.
I have come to believe the church often takes the actions it does so it can feel comfortable. However, the Church must ask the questions: If we don’t reach out to unpopular groups of people who are different than what we are accustomed to, who will? Far too often the Church has become like the Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus time. She is critical of those who are not religious, practice a different faith, or have no faith at all, we even at times seem to put a political affiliation requirement on those we are willing to love and reach out to. Many in the church doesn’t want to surround herself with people who are perceived as, "undesirable" because of their, "sinful lifestyles".  It is sad but true, our actions are not only driven by our thoughts, but what we think others will think of us for practicing our faith the way Jesus and the writers of the Bible instruct us to.
It is here we need to realize, that yes, while the Church is a building or a location; it isn’t really a church without the people who make up the Church. It is in reality the people who make the Church what she is or is not. Our thoughts and our perceptions either have us doing the right thing, or ignoring the right thing and doing what is for many, comfortable. While this may be the easy road many choose, while there may even be a level of effectiveness to it, it isn't what calls us to. 
Think about what the Scribes and Pharisees said? They accused Jesus of being with drunkards, prostitutes, tax collectors, the poor, the sick, outcast and more. These were the very people Jesus and the early Church reached out to. They were not the only people, there were others who fell into the category of middle to upper class, yet, Jesus made specific efforts, to reach out to the ‘sinners’. He went to where they were and related in a way were he showed them he respected and loved them as a people. This concept of relating, of becoming ‘one of them,’ is incarnation.
Often, as people go to church they think everything about their lives and the lives of others who come to the church has to change. For example, only certain types of music may be accepted, others are not, there has to be a set pattern to the rhythms and beats and it is imperative that everyone follow those patterns. Sometimes there are certain dress requirements. While we don’t always come right out and say these things or we may even deny these things in our words, our actions indicate this is church policy. As many churches start targeting groups for outreach they leave out certain populations, it is evident as we look around us that this is the case. I ask the questions, “Who is reaching out to various racial groups? Are our Churches integrated with all ethnic groups? Do we show love to the poor, not just by putting money in the missionary funds, but by spending time with them, face to face, heart to heart, eye to eye? Do we have homeless programs that not only meet the immediate need, but work to establish more for them, more like homes, families careers, etc... Are we giving financially to help those in need as much as we are asking to meet our financial needs such as our building funds? Do we know why someone is a gang banger? When is the last time we hugged a prostitute? What about criminals, do they know what it is like to have a visit from a person of faith? Does the church welcome skaters?  Goths? Do we know what these people believe? Do those in alternative lifestyles know us? What about those involved in new age concepts? Do we involve ourselves with the country music crowd? How about Rock n Rollers? We can ask ourselves the question, when the bible says whoever, do we believe it? Does our whosoever’s include people who are Bi, Lesbian, Gay, Transgendered, or even Straight, Religious, Muslim, or Hispanic? What conditions and restrictions do we place on our efforts to reach out to and share Jesus love with others?
Hopefully you get my point. Unfortunately, it is clear; many in the Church do not want to reach out to the above mentioned groups and are not willing to do what is needed in order to be effective in reaching them. Churches, not open to the concepts needed to reach these "different", groups for Christ that should be on their knees asking for Gods forgiveness for their lack of concern and unwillingness to share the "Good News" and in doing the work Jesus and the Scripture commands.
Jesus came and incarnated.  He gave His life so "none would perish" and "all can come into the presence of the Lord," "worshipping Him forever and ever." One of the situations at the church I attended was I had a disagreement with one of the pastors around the area of music. We were looking at developing an alternative contemporary worship service that would be a form of outreach to those in the community not going to church using a style many could relate to. Some in the church felt certain types of music was not acceptable and that people in their 30’s and 40’s would not enjoy a more contemporary and upbeat style. I found this attitude humorous. I was in that age group at the time and decided to do some research to find out what was the most popular radio stations in our area for listeners in that age group. The most popular radio stations were stations with classic rock and adult rock formats. This made sense to me because while growing up I listened to groups like Aerosmith, AC/DC, ELO, Van Halen and others with styles popular like this. When I stopped and thought about it, so did most of my friends. Most in this age group and older, they still find this format enjoyable. This does not mean everything I listen to is hard rock but rock and pop are styles many listen to. For different cultures, and within certain segments of various cultures, different styles and formats other than these arise. At one church I was a pastor at the research for our community showed that the Wal-Mart up near us was one of the largest sellers of Hispanic Music in the Country. This certainly played into our decisions when deciding what style of music to incorporate for worship. I have learned that those in the 18-24 age groups within the African American Community listen to different styles of music than most Caucasian listeners between the ages of 55 and 62. While there are always exceptions, they are just that, exceptions.
Another humorous component of this issue is I have looked at and researched Church growth and revival. At churches who have experienced major growth. Most of the new worship music across the world experiencing growth spurts are churches that have updated their music and mode of worship. An obvious example of this is the Brownsville Assembly of God in Pensacola Florida. As of the writing of this book they have experienced a long running growth spurt. While there is appropriate debate as to if this is a growth revival, there is no denying the impact the church has had. Whether you agree with their doctrine or not they have had people standing outside in lines waiting to get into the church for sometimes days in advance. One can not question the impact this church has had on America and the world. People are getting saved in record numbers and changing their lifestyles from drugs, prostitution, gangs and other sinful lifestyles. Many have given their lives to Christ and made Him their Lord and living lives of holiness and love for others. One of the components bringing people into this church is the style of music which allows and encourages authentic worship. Songs like ‘Saved’ by Bob Dylan and other contemporary artist fill the worship experience as well as a blend of occasional old traditional hymns. Again, under a pure definition of revival it is speculative as to whether or not Pensacola falls into the 'Revival" definition.  There is also no doubt though, that for legitimately defined revivals like the Wesley Revival, The Jesus People Movement, The Asbury Revival and others, that music has had an impact. Even contemporary revivals featuring such evangelists as Billy Graham and others has understood the importance of contemporary music.
Christianity has for over two thousand years now used the music of the culture to reach the people of their generation.  From “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” to songs like “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks” culture has had a tremendous impact on the style of music used in church gatherings. One should for example consider the standard, “Amazing Grace.” It has gone through changes and was written without music. It was years after John Newton pinned the lyrics when the tune was given to the song and it is likely that Newton, the songs lyricist never heard the version we sing. 
Do churches need to find ways to reach out to fringe groups which may not be popular in some church formats? I think so. That is not to say the Church has to accept a sinful lifestyle. For example, I believe that areas not based on Biblical truth need to be seriously questioned. The Mennonite people which are featured in this story are people of doctrine and they as well as other members of the Christian faith should hold firm to their doctrines. In Christianity we certainly have absolutes and it is important to practice our beliefs and if those beliefs are Biblically solid there is nothing wrong with holding firm to those beliefs. We should not be ashamed of the Gospel nor the teachings of Christ and the absolutes He stood for, preached, taught and lived. While not all churches may be able to adapt to these changes, they must at least be willing to consider planting and starting churches which make it possible for people within alternative circles to worship in a way that brings joy and purpose to their lives.  We like Jesus must take part in and encourage, incarnation. Of course in all of this, it is also important to do serious study, not just on the words and text of scripture, but the cultural issues being addressed in scripture. In today's world it is also quite easy to go back to the original languages and determine the likely meaning of the writings we are basing our beliefs on. It may not take long that when doing this, we may discover that not all is has it has been taught over the years.
Today’s Church needs to learn to decipher the difference between Biblical absolutes and cultural differences; we cannot let a cultural difference prevent us from finding ways to reach those who are different. It is moronic for many in the church to make the comparison that ‘Rock N Roll’ or ‘Hip Hop’ is the music of the devil. There are many within the Christian faith that still use this type of argument. They need to look at the historical fact of where many of our hymns come from.
The above is one example of a cultural difference when making worship decisions. When accepting people into church fellowships other cultural areas might include length of hair, certain types of dress, piercings, tattoos and other things. For example, contemporary skaters have a dress style that many do not like but certain aspects of the style of dress have nothing wrong with it other than the fact that many of us who are older didn’t or don’t dress that way. Regarding hair, in today’s culture it may be more undesirable to have extremely short hair than long hair depending on where you live due to the racially motivated skinhead movement. Many in the Church may not realize it but many in today’s contemporary culture make the comparison of men and or women with close cut or shaved heads as being racially bigoted. Is this to say that short hair in and of itself is wrong? Certainly not, it is to say there are cultural issues which make these questions we have to ask more difficult than many realize. Some will remember the days when some said the Beatles hair was too long, they looked like girls. The times have changed since they first appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show in the early 1960’s. By today’s standards their hair would be considered short and in some circles even considered a business cut if styled a little differently.
Each generation has its own cultural issues which are difficult for the preceding generation to accept. It has been this way since the beginning of time and will continue until Jesus return. It is human nature and a part of the growing up process for youth to explore new ideas and concepts different than their parents. Often times these youthful ideas push the buttons of us who forgot what it was like to be young and what it was like growing up. It is not to say all aspects of growing up and trying new things are right. Our children will make mistakes just as we made mistakes. However, the challenges of today’s youth are in many ways greater than they were for us. The development of technology has not helped. Neither have the changing cultural norms. Many believe and I am among them, that this generation with the advent of cell phones, chat rooms, Instagram, Twitter and more are influenced more by outside factors than factors at home.  As parents or older adults we can try to win a battle we are guaranteed to loose by forcing our views and opinions on others or we can find a measure of success by trying to understand the culture and then in the understanding of that culture adapt or yes, even incarnate where possible. 
One of the difficulties today for many is that today’s culture does not believe in absolute truth. Many of our absolutes are concepts that have been passed down through every vein of our lives. The truths many people have are difficult for the post modernist because they do not recognize nor have they discovered what they believe to be ultimate truth. This is why we must do our best to understand our children and raise them to the truth and understanding of God’s love as exemplified in his Son’s death, resurrection, teaching and Holy Word, the Bible. We have to in the process again, incarnate to create a better understanding between us and them. In other words, it is imperative that we live the words of Scripture and model our lives after Jesus if we are to be effective in sharing Jesus with others.
What does any of the above have to do with the story you are reading; "A Christmas Story"? Shortly after I came to have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ I read the book, ‘In His Steps’ by Charles M. Sheldon. This book, as it has for many Christians, has left a dramatic impact on my life in the decisions I make. While hearing the story of a family that was robbed during Christmas in the early 1990’s on the radio program, Focus on the Family, I begin thinking about what Jesus would want me to do if I was robbed, especially at the worst time for a family with children, Christmas. As I thought about what God would want me to do the idea for "A Christmas Story" was birthed.
While the story looks at other areas such as racial understanding, the justice system and others it does not take place entirely at Christmas time. For those of us who have chosen to follow Jesus we understand the significance of Christmas. It is without a doubt one of the three most important days for the Christian. Christmas is a reminder of many things, including the example of Jesus that shows us why and how we should live all of the time. It is with this in mind that "A Christmas Story" was written. I cherish that Jesus was born as a babe in Bethlehem.  He chose to live among us as one of us. I value the ultimate gift God gave humanity on that first Christmas. That gift gives me reason to live but it also inspires me to give to others. Jesus spent so much time with people and taught with such passion while he was on the earth, there is much we can still learn. He gave us a new commandment, the 11th commandment that "We love God with all our heart, soul and mind and strength and that we love our neighbor as ourselves." We are told in Matthew that what we have done for the least of these we have done for Him. God makes it clear, we show Him our love by loving others.
I have looked for human role models who exemplify Gods’ love and by living Jesus’ teachings. In a former job I often interviewed people for employment and one of the last if not the last question I asked was that if they could have dinner with one person, either living or dead, real or fictional who would it be and why. Most had the predictable answers of Jesus, or a dead parent, maybe even a president like Abraham Lincoln. Those who know me are not surprised by my answer. It would not be Jesus, I am with Him everyday and have access to his teachings in the Bible, for me the answer to the question is the real Saint Nicholas. He was an individual who historically and in reality, understood what God had given him and what he should in return give back to others. It would be interesting to ask his thoughts on what he felt about the observance of Christmas in today’s society. "A Christmas Story" gives my take on what I believe God would have us do in part in today's society with Christmas.
Hopefully this story helps you consider what Christmas is about and what can come about if we understand and accept the significance of that first Christmas and every one since. I pray this story helps you understand not only culture but also how to reach out to others in a loving way. God has already given us the potential to have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful year. It is up to us in part to have one by recognizing the value of the gift but it is also our responsibility to help others see the meaning of Christmas too. May this Christmas, this life, be filled with the wonderful gift of Jesus and opportunity to fall so much in love with Him today that you can't help but share him with others. 
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The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 

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There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

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Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

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Email: mike@furches.org

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Monday, September 29, 2014

The World Or Your Soul

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In life we sometimes want so much around us, our family, friends, and even people we are aware of that we have gotten to know through observation be it via television, movies, other friends or some other form. This really hit home, especially recently with the suicide of Robin Williams. As with many others around the world, many grieved at his death. It became even more complicated when I saw others with little or no understanding of mental illness and specifically major depression either making fun of or making light of his death. Despite these people, we saw attention brought to the subjects of suicide, major depression and even Parkinson's. All this from the likes of the regular Jane or Joe, foreign dignitaries, members of the Armed Services, and even the President of the United States. This recognition not typical but is an example of how others, even those we don't know can be touched from someone else.

Through this observation and others I have been reminded, why don't some do more to help themselves, after all, many of us care about them and want to see them improve their situations. I want them to improve their lives, potential and ultimately their hope. For me, I firmly believe that without Jesus, there is little if any real hope possibilities. Others may say they believe that but unfortunately their actions don't always show it. It is unfortunate but I think that for some, their actions show they are either afraid of the possibilities or are satisfied with where they are, even if those who really know them, know can see the possibilities and know what is best. It like a parent who has lived their life but realizes they can't live through or for their children, even when they know what is best.

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A question for me is, why? The answer is quite simple, either one surrenders to Jesus or they don't. I see many who call themselves Christians or Followers of Jesus who don't take the commitment to Jesus seriously. It is sadder in some ways when others condone this lack of commitment. It is unfortunate but few really desire to be like Jesus. I am not trying to engage in the condemnation thing, I am talking about having an "I love you so much I want what is best for you," attitude. One that sacrificially gives out of love to another. This brings forth another question: Do we love others so much that we grieve when they don't want the best for themselves?

There are hurting people all around us who make poor decisions, sometimes decisions that cost them their lives. Do we evaluate what we can do, how we can share a message of hope, salvation and opportunity, or are we satisfied with doing just enough to keep ourselves feeling good about doing something for someone else?

In the Bible there is this incredible concept called "Incarnation." It is as simple as this, Jesus was with God from the beginning of time. He had it all in Heaven, yet, He loved us so much that he decided to leave Heaven to come to earth, to be born in a feeding troth, (we normally use the nice word, stable) to two poor parents, his mother Mary, and adopted father, a carpenter, Joseph. He willingly did this because He loves us and wanted more for us. I don't know if you have been on a farm but the feeding troth, the stables do not have the best smell or conditions but this is Jesus first on earth and even then, as a baby.  He was known for much of his life as Jesus of Nazareth, due to where he grew up. Others were familiar with him, knew him. Jesus chose to incarnate so we could better understand him and in return we also know, He understands us. 


Incarnation is a concept I have valued and studied for some years. It is one of the reasons I chose to give up a salary, to live among and with the people God has called me to minister to. I challenge that when one incarnates to the level and place God has called them, they will have a love, a passion, a seriousness about loving and serving God has called them to. They will experience joy but also grief and sadness. It is important in these extremes that we keep our focus and purpose on Jesus. If is from incarnation that people ultimately see the potential in themselves. When we love to the extreme many will see the potential and possibilities in their own lives. It doesn't change the hurt for us when one slips through the cracks or ultimately, even worse, goes their own way and knowingly walks away from God. 

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Ultimately, for ourselves and others we must understand that while we are responsible for our actions, we are our brothers keeper and are called to help each other out. We love as best as we can. We joy when they joy, we grieve when they grieve, we are happy when they make the right decisions, we hurt when they make the wrong decisions but ultimately, we remember, we do our best, and each person is responsible for their own actions. While there are times when people make the right decisions and bad things still happen but that is a whole other topic for another day. 


Today I pray, may I do the best I can. May I surrender to Jesus and may those I am love and am in contact with do the same.


James 1: 21 - 27:  (21) You must stop doing anything immoral or evil. Instead be humble and accept the message that is planted in you to save you.

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(22) Obey God’s message! Don’t fool yourselves by just listening to it. (23) If you hear the message and don’t obey it, you are like people who stare at themselves in a mirror (24) and forget what they look like as soon as they leave. (25) But you must never stop looking at the perfect law that sets you free. God will bless you in everything you do, if you listen and obey, and don’t just hear and forget.

(26) If you think you are being religious, but can’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and everything you do is useless. (27) Religion that pleases God the Father must be pure and spotless. You must help needy orphans and widows and not let this world make you evil.  



The Bible calls us to be Disciples, are you a Disciple?  To see the following video, just click on it, if you click on it and there are problems, feel free to click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwYeaSetv88



The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 

http://www.mosaicwichita.com/#!store
Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News
 

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

When I Was Homeless

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I recently saw a post by a pastor friend in Portland Oregon, Steve Kimes asking a general question of his friends about what it was like being homeless and the lessons learned, good and bad memories and so forth. Many may or may not know but there were times from about the age of 15 on to about 20 that I was either on the streets or couch hopped from friends and family, to friends and family. I write about the causes of it in my book The Keystone Kid, but Steve's question got me to think. From his question I present the following.

While on my own I couch hopped and at times stayed wherever I could stay including some nights on the streets. I stayed in a mission once and swore I would never stay in another. I never felt good about having to hear the preaching in order to get the food. Neither did I feel safe in a mission as a young man at the time. The streets and being on your own gave a form of independence, staying in a mission to me was a way to take that independence from me. It wasn't that I couldn't take care of myself at the mission, I had had to do that for most of my life but there is something about strangers at night and their advances that never set well with me. There were just too many red flags from personal experiences to subject myself to.

It is ironic as I was given an option to stay in a mission last summer when speaking in California. I had my wife with me, and still couldn't bring myself to stay there, it may have been a great mission but it brought back too many personal memories. There was something about those feelings even some 35+ years later that remained with me. It is one of the reasons I have enjoyed giving counsel to some missions and homeless programs in recent years. I am grateful that some things are changing but there is still a lot of work to be done.  

www.thevirtualpew.comIn my later teen years, mostly during my Junior and Senior years of High School and a year of college I was blessed to stay off and on at a YMCA Transient Shelter in Erwin Tennessee. I had a room, a hot plate (which I wasn't supposed to have,) a bed, dresser and closet. I didn't like the community shower due to memories of the abuse I had gone through in the years prior. Staying at the YMCA though, and those community showers got me used to getting up early as I would get up to shower before anyone else. I write some about this in my book which is available at Amazon from anywhere from 99 cents to $30 or more depending on if one gets the kindle, paper back or hard back. One can get the audio book for free from Soundcloud.com. It is professionally done and I am very pleased with it. The name of the book is The Keystone Kid. 

Now after that shameless promotion. I don't mind talking about being homeless for a couple of reasons. I have had the honor of telling my story to as few as a few, or one to one in casual conversation up to thousands at a time. I don't mind because, 1) there is a sense of credibility I gain among the abused and homeless of which God has blessed me to be in ministry with. They hear my story and know of its truths. In this process I have seen God use my story to help others. While I am far from totally delivered emotionally from my past and memories, I have new memories and a promising future. There is also the reminder of how good God is and what he brought me through. I know this may sound crazy, but years ago I had a conversation with my friend Glen Kaiser from Jesus People USA and Resurrection Band. I was having trouble in feeling loved by God and he reminded me of the passage of scripture that says those who have sinned more has been forgiven more and therefore loves God more. I don't like the pretentiousness that can come about from thinking like this, but I will admit, I love God with all of my heart. I know from where I came, where I am and the promises God has for me. While His people, His church, our society often fails, God never has and I don't expect ever will. I know my story and my past and I know God knows me better than I know myself.

www.thevirtualpew.comI will admit, when homeless and on my own, I enjoyed the ease of life and not having to be accountable to anyone. I had no responsibilities and a number of Christians were there to help me. I hated not being understood, of course looking back on it, I wonder how much more I could have done to let people know about my situation so they could better understand me? I think a lot of it was the times I was in the situations I was. It was an ongoing issue. I think though that those on the streets or experiencing the tough times think they are responsible for communicating their feelings and experiences when in reality, they don't always understand them themselves and how they came about.

I was homeless and stayed with others the later part of my high school years and then some before, a little after those years. There was one instance while in high school where I was sick and literally had to serve a month or more of detention because I didn't have a parental excuse for the school. One day while in the guidance counselors office during detention they, (a married couple, Doc and Gail Clark) asked me why I was there every day. I didn't seem like a bad kid? I went ballistic saying all they, (the schools administrators) had to do was call the YMCA and they would verify I was homeless and lived at the Y. The Clarks made a phone call and easily verified that what I said was true. They got me on the free lunch program which was a big deal for a kid used to eating meals made either on a hot plate or bummed from someone whose home I just happened to show up at during meal time. The YMCA which was funded by private donations and The United Way was a huge help. Neither can I ignore though some of the Christians and others in the church I was attending that helped. This is how, where and when I met my wife.

www.thevirtualpew.comThere is a lot of things I can reflect on. I would say to those on the streets;  as hard as it is, don't give up. Faith and my relationship with Christ was also critical for me although in those early years I wasn't very good at living it out, mostly because I didn't understand it. It was a learning process but one I  took seriously despite my own ignorance in the area. I wanted to learn and was blessed to be smart enough to seek out those who lived their faith for advice and teaching. I figured if they didn't live it, they weren't worth learning from. I will also say, I was the one that had to take on the responsibility of finishing school. I look back and consider that a miracle. My education was an important part of my getting to where I am. While many may not think the place I am in now is a good place, compared to where I was, on the streets living a life most can't imagine, to where I am now, this place is a tremendous place that has involved a tremendous and exciting journey.

In closing, in looking back, the things people did for me are greatly appreciated but they were not as important as the understanding that I knew someone cared for me. In this, remember that sometimes the things one does gives another the understanding that they are loved. Doing for others helps one earn the right to reach in and touch another persons life. I am not disputing the importance of the things but I'm saying the things in and of themselves are not the end all to what one should be doing. The need to feel loved and in fact, be loved and accepted has far more value than the things people do. Everyone needs to remember that. I get hugs, voluntarily without asking for them from people I am blessed to do ministry with because I think folks who know me, see me and know I care for them whether they are on the streets or not. I know I can always do and be more but nothing replaces someone knowing your name and telling you they care for you and then you, because of their actions, know they in return, care for you.

www.thekeystonekid.org
For me and my house know, we have gone the extra mile for those we are called to love.  We don't just do the things we do for some people where they are, we engage them in our lives and for some, we live with them, literally. We have given our lives, our home, and made tremendous sacrifices to show love and be Christ as best as possible to those we are called to love. I am bold about the services, agencies and churches I like, and those I don't like and think may be doing more harm than good. Why?  It is simple, the people I am blessed to serve and speak out for aren't projects, they are family. I have learned from my experiences, not my experiments, I am blessed and see God in the individuals I am honored to live and be with, I literally see them as brothers and sisters, not projects that make me look good.

Some don't get it, I suspect, never will, but it all started for me with a simple concept, the love of Jesus who was willing to sacrifice all of himself for me and his command and call for me to love my neighbor, especially my poor neighbors in the same way he loved me. I have realized, many can talk about it, but God calls us to do it. I am glad I have listened and realize, there is much more to do and much more to learn, after all, I'm not in Heaven yet. I want to bring along as many as I can, for I realize, and want the world around me that I am called to love that God so loved this world that he sent his one and only son so that whosoever believes in him will not perish, but they will gain eternal life. I have come to realize this and more that; God is good, all the time, and all the time, God is good.


The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

The following is the award winning short film, The Long Walk, based in part on my life. The complete DVD is available with over 2 hours of special features by contacting me through the contact information listed.  To watch the film, just click on the video, if there are problems with the video click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10JWEVO1JYk&list=UU7Bks_yQBtQdVl7am_2o7vw



Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 

http://www.mosaicwichita.com/#!store
Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

Monday, September 1, 2014

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

My wife Mary Jane Erwin Furches was telling me recently about an experience she had after a doctors visit. I asked her to write down her thoughts for a post here at The Virtual Pew. The following are those comments. I Hope you enjoy and get something out of it.

Recently I had my routine diabetic check-up with my doctor. Something I do not always look forward to, not that I dislike going to see my doctor because he is a good friend and devout Christian. You see I can always count on him holding my hands and praying for me before I leave. Well on this particular visit, I shared with him about the struggles Mike and I are going through concerning the ministry we feel God has called us to. If you are a follower of the Virtual Pew, you know that we serve the homeless population in our small home-based church. You also know the homeless do not have money to support the church, so where does the money come from?God has always provided for us, but being human we sometimes wonder where it is going to come from or when. In the past few months, we have dwindled to where we only have one church which consistently gives financially and we sometimes get small amounts from various individuals. I shared with Dr. Tom about the need for funds to come in as we are about to be in a crisis mode with not enough to cover our bills. He took my hands and prayed for me asking God to give me peace about our situation and to continue to trust Him. As I left the office and got in my car to drive home, I was stopped at a traffic light not far from his office. As I sat there contemplating our conversation and prayer, a bird landed on the windshield wiper blade and just sat there. I was startled at first as I thought it was going to crash into the windshield, instead, it gracefully landed and appeared to be staring at me through the windshield. It sat perfectly still and didn’t move until the light turned and I began moving. As I looked at that bird a peacefulness came over me and I felt God was nudging me by showing me this bird and whispering to me, “ See I take care of him,I will take care of you.Trust me.” As I drove home, I had a peacefulness I had not felt for several weeks. I truly believe God uses many ways to communicate with us to let us know He is there and He cares. I don’t know how He always does it, but I am thankful He does. Mike and I know God will provide and I ask that you pray for our finances. Maybe you are in a tough place in your own life God will be faithful to you if you seek Him. He can give you a peace that is far beyond understanding if you let Him. How about it?

‘Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single cubit to his life’s span? And why are you anxious about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory did not clothe himself like one of these.But if God so arrays the grass of the filed, which is alive today and tomorrow if thrown into the furnace, will He not much more do so for you, O men of little faith? Do no be anxious then saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “With what shall we clothe ourselves?” For all these things the Gentiles eagerly seek; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. yes;" But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you.

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

The following is a video of the song His Eye is on The Sparrow performed by Whitney Houston. To watch the video just click on the video, if the video does not work, try the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCfFi8SDz6I




Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 

http://www.mosaicwichita.com/#!store
Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News