The Virtual Pew Daily

Monday, March 31, 2008

I Have Been Selected for Big Brother 10 on CBS

As some of my friends can tell you, I have been an off again, on again fan of Big Brother on CBS television for a number of years. While I haven’t watched every season, I watched every episode of Season 1, then off again, on again, for seasons thereafter. I did watch every episode of Season 8, and most every episode of Season 9. Imagine my surprise as I was notified yesterday that I have been chosen to be a house guest on Season 10 of Big Brother.

I was really surprised when speaking with representatives of CBS Television as to their reasoning for selecting me. I made it clear in my application, including my video resume as to my issues with the way Christians were being represented in the last two seasons. In season 8 we had Christians praying for all kinds of things and doing all kinds of things that just didn’t line up with the Bible. It was an obvious “name it claim it” group of Christians that didn’t get it. Then there is the current season. You would have thought the Christians had just walked out of the Playboy Mansion with Hugh Heffner as one of their pastoral support members. I made it clear, I had had enough, it was time that a Christian with real integrity stood up, have some fun, and represent the Billion plus Christians around the world in a real way. My insistence on this was the contributing factor to my selection.

As part of the program, I have to only compromise on a few things but I think it is worth it, after all, we can all find room to compromise for Jesus can’t we? As a part of the selection I have to go onto the program representing myself as being single. I can’t let anyone know that I am married and have children. They want some form of courtship so I am giving in to it. Part of this has to do with a twist in the show that I can’t speak much about but has been made clear to me. There are other things though, and I wanted to explain a few things.

One of the things they want from me is that I initially present myself as an Atheist. They have a plan that I will be converted to Christianity during the course of the program. I am to be just like everyone else, and they want me to convert to a “Holy Roller” type of Christian. This will all occur after I have been confronted for getting into the hot-tub naked after it has been filled up with bubbles by another “Holy Roller” Christian on the program. Long story made short, part of the twist is the agreements the two of us have from the get go, you know a Christian and an Atheist going at it back and forth. They figure the religious debate and arguing will make for good ratings on the television show. I have been pretty much assured that if I compromise on these things I will be assured to make it to the final 10. Once making it to the final 10, every thing is on my own, and whether I stay or go is up to the “rules and voting of the house.”

I am excited and this will be a huge answer to prayer, think about it, I only have to compromise a few of my beliefs and I will have a chance at winning the $500,000 prize offered to the winner of Big Brother 10. I will also be guaranteed $1,000 a week for the duration of my stay up to this point, and after making a name for myself, I will be able to spread the message of Jesus all over the world.

Just imagine what any of us can accomplish or gain with a little compromise. I assure you, it isn’t like we are fools or anything like that, I mean isn’t it worth it to share Jesus at all costs with a world that needs to hear about him? We should weigh the few bad things we may have to do with all of the good things we can accomplish if we just give in a little.

Now for those who have read this far, and has any issue with any of the things I have stated, we can all be foolish, but we should never be fools, not even on April Fools Day, but then again, I think my true friends, and those who know me, would know that the last thing I would ever encourage is for any of us to compromise our values and our faith. Hopefully on this day, of all days, we can have a little reminder that it is better to be dedicated to Jesus every day than to be the king of fools on April Fools Day.

As for me, no amount of money, or any compromise of my faith and values is worth any dollar amount or prestige anyone could give me. Hopefully your convictions and beliefs are solid enough, and strong enough in something of value, like Jesus Christ, that neither would you consider compromising those things that are of ultimate value.

Regarding Big Brother, if you haven't seen my tribute to Season 8 Click on the video below. If you don't see the video, just click on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64Q5lV7EJlo

Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

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Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. 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

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P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
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Thursday, March 27, 2008

"God Damn America" What Did I Just Hear?

Now that I likely have your attention, let me say, it is not my intent to put down any politician, nor is it my attempt to put down America in any way. The truth is however, at least in the United States, we have heard this phrase so much over the last weeks it is almost unbelievable. Well, at least I have heard it from talk radio to political television. The Reverend Jeremiah Wright and some of his sermons have been on the airwaves so much you would think he is running for president. Thankfully, he isn’t, unfortunately, some people need to remember that.

This article, like other articles and editorials I have done will likely turn into some people not understanding, becoming critical, and even attacking Reverend Jeremiah Wright and Barack Obama, for those people, be careful what you become critical of, that isn’t what this is about. I don’t like the title, but the title if you note is a quote, a quote which many of us have heard many times over the last weeks. Notes of warning from the get go; I won’t approve comments that deal with attacking either Barack Obama or Reverend Jeremiah Wright. This isn’t about attacking people, even those we disagree with. This article is about looking at what the Bible says regarding our leaders, and the relationship we are to have towards those in authority. I will welcome anyone posting comments on this, and especially those posting comments using their particular religious views supported by their religious documents, whether the Koran, The Torah, Book of Mormon, or the Bible. If you aren’t religious, your thoughts and comments are also welcome, obviously you won’t use a religious text to support your position, but your view is of value.

Now a simple read, a simple read of some of the things the Bible in particular says regarding some of the teachings that followers of Jesus could think about in regards to leaders and countries.

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Obey the rulers who have authority over you. Only God can give authority to anyone, and he puts these rulers in their places of power. People who oppose the authorities are opposing what God has done, and they will be punished. Rulers are a threat to evil people, not to good people. There is no need to be afraid of the authorities. Just do right, and they will praise you for it. After all, they are God's servants, and it is their duty to help you.

If you do something wrong, you ought to be afraid, because these rulers have the right to punish you. They are God's servants who punish criminals to show how angry God is. But you should obey the rulers because you know it is the right thing to do, and not just because of God's anger.

You must also pay your taxes. The authorities are God's servants, and it is their duty to take care of these matters. Pay all that you owe, whether it is taxes and fees or respect and honor. ~ Romans 13: 1-7

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First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them. Pray for kings and others in power, so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives as we worship and honor God. ~ 1 Timothy 2: 1, 2

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Obey your leaders and do what they say. They are watching over you, and they must answer to God. So don't make them sad as they do their work. Make them happy. Otherwise, they won't be able to help you at all. ~ Hebrews 13: 7

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Always let others see you behaving properly, even though they may still accuse you of doing wrong. Then on the day of judgment, they will honor God by telling the good things they saw you do.

The Lord wants you to obey all human authorities, especially the Emperor, who rules over everyone. You must also obey governors, because they are sent by the Emperor to punish criminals and to praise good citizens. ~ 1 Peter 2: 12 – 14

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If my own people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer them from heaven. I will forgive them and make their land fertile once again.

I will hear the prayers made in this temple, ~ 2 Chronicles 7: 14, 15

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So what point am I trying to drive home? Quite simple actually, as people who say we follow Jesus, we may actually accomplish more if we pray for our leaders, pray for our countries and serve those who need served than if we complain all of the time. Don’t get me wrong, as followers of Jesus we have to stand for justice, we have to stand for what is right, we must place God in authority over our countries, but, maybe just maybe, we will accomplish more out of love, even love of our enemies and those who would do us wrong, than if we take up the sword and go to battle. On that note, two more verses to think about.

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Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. ~ Matthew 5:9

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But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. When peacemakers plant seeds of peace, they will harvest justice. ~ James 3: 17 – 18

I have to admit, I always liked the song and artist in the video below. While some may think the video has very little to do with this article, I beg to differ, it has everything to do with it. Just click on the video below to see it, it is an oldie but a goodie, and if the video don't work, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xNSgBkum7o

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

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Tuesday, March 11, 2008

I Have a Confession, I Have a Girlfriend

I have a confession that will shock some, and hurt others. It is not my intent to do either of these things, but I have to make a confession. I have a girlfriend.

Last night I went to a local Wendy’s restaurant to take part in a fundraiser for Youth Horizons. I started working with Youth Horizons recently in part to help me financially with The Virtual Pew. The marriage and association with Youth Horizons has been wonderful. I have the opportunity to earn some needed income, while being free to do the work I believe God has called me to, The Virtual Pew. In the process I am blessed to also work in an area that reminds me of my own youth. The more I do with Youth Horizons, the more I know I could have benefited from a program like this. To be a part of helping youth who are fatherless is not only a reminder of what God has done for me, but a answer to the prayers of my youth, of giving back to youth who are much like I was when I was their age.

Another reason I was excited about my association with Youth Horizons was the opportunity to learn from Earnest Alexander, the President of this wonderful ministry. From providing mentors to a residential program for these children, Mr. Alexander has established a wonderful and effective ministry that is extremely effective. I am genuinely impressed by his love for this ministry, and for the young men and women who this ministry reaches out to.

Last night, while at Wendy’s Earnest asked me a question that caused me to ponder. The question caused me to ponder because I wondered how he knew what he knew. While I had not thought of things in the same way he had, he was right on the money when asking me the question; “Where is your girlfriend?”

I met my girlfriend over 30 years ago now. Truth is, many didn’t think the relationship would last, but it has. I still have fun with my girlfriend; we go on regular dates, normally on Thursdays and Saturdays.

When our relationship started to develop there was a lot of physical attraction. While a building block, we learned quickly that while the attraction was important, it wasn’t the most important thing. Unfortunately over thirty years, our skin started to wrinkle, hair turn gray, put on extra weight, and, well, you likely get the picture.

With over thirty years of relationship we have learned other things. And for the kiddos, especially those with the last name Furches, you may not want to read this paragraph. I have to say, for over thirty years, the sex has been wonderful, I expect it will be for the next thirty years. I don’t know why people don’t talk about sex, or when they do they talk about it in a disrespectful way, but truth is, I think my girlfriend and I have learned that the beauty of a long lasting relationship has in part, the beauty of experiencing this wonderful gift from God. That’s right; a sexual relationship is a beautiful gift from God. We have both enjoyed it, but over the years we have also learned it is far from the most important thing in the development of a relationship between a boyfriend and girlfriend.

(Now the kiddies can read again.) With the above said, I have to also say this, while that paragraph is a beautiful thing in a relationship, I have learned to enjoy holding hands in a movie, a gentle kiss, and just a chance to sit and caress each other on the arm, back of the neck or wherever. I have also learned that few things in life are as sweet as a loving hug, or a meaningful conversation. In my later years, or mid years now, I have learned it is those things, times of sharing life together that real and lasting relationships are built.

I must also make mention of the need to forgive. Over the years, God Almighty knows there have been numerous times I needed to be forgiven. In our 30 year plus relationship, I have been pretty stupid at times. At times turning my back on God and at other times turning my back on my girlfriend. I regret those times, but am so grateful for a loving and forgiving girlfriend, and even more grateful for a loving and caring God who gave me that girlfriend. This reminds me of an old church saying common in Black Churches. God is Good, All the Time!

Yea, last night I had a burger, a diet-Coke, and a baked potato at Wendy’s but I had more than that. I had a wonderful reminder from a Godly man that I have a girlfriend named Mary Jane. I have gotten so used to calling her my wife that I forgot I have a girlfriend. Sometimes God uses wise men to remind each of us of little simple things that are so important. That said, thanks Earnest, I can’t think of a more important truth in my life that I have this giddy feeling for this girlfriend of mine. I have been blessed to keep a boyfriend, girlfriend relationship alive for over 30 years now. I knew that one of the benefits of my association with Youth Horizons was that I was going to learn from a wise and Godly man. The reminder that I have a girlfriend is a perfect reminder that God has given me a wife, but more than just a wife.

In closing I would ask, especially for those who are married, do you still get giddy over your boyfriend, girlfriend? Do you still take those dates that enabled you to spend time together when you were young? Do you enjoy the blessings of God, as God intended them? Are you as much in love with your boyfriend, girlfriend as you were in your youth? God can rebuild that relationship if you miss it. I have to say, while there have been times I have missed it, over the last years I have learned to rekindle a love relationship from my youth, a love relationship that has lasted all of these years.

For those not married, but in a relationship, are you building it in a way that pleases God, and follows His directives for relationship? Are you doing it in a way that guarantees success, happiness and longevity? People often ask me how I have done it, how we have lasted when few gave us a chance. I say, we have done it by honoring first and foremost our commitment to God, following his directions in regards to relationship, and doing little things like keeping dates, and spending time with each other.

Oh yea, did I tell you about that saying in many Black Churches, God is Good, All the time! All the Time, God is Good!

Now for something unusual. Most of you know that I appreciate your support for The Virtual Pew. I am so blessed to see God use this ministry. This issue of The Virtual Pew though, I am asking you to consider supporting another ministry I believe in and love, one I am learning from. I am asking you to click here, and look at the ways you could also give a contribution of support for Youth Horizons. While there, check out the work they do, and know that you are supporting a ministry that I could have used as a teen and a young man, and you can see a ministry I am blessed to be a part of. Again, you can also click here to go to Youth Horizons Donation page.

I was looking for a good song to play here, and finally realized, I have a dear friend, and relative by marriage that had a pretty big hit. That person is Perry Richardson, a cousin by marriage who used to play some with a band called Nantucket, and then after that a little band called Firehouse. He played bass guitar for Firehouse and this song did pretty well on the charts. You may have heard of it. If you see the video below, just click on it, if you don't then just click on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6zt3mL8Xis

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

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Friday, March 7, 2008

The Best Band You Never Heard Of, EVER!

I am not certain but the year was either 1985 or 1986, some 20+ years ago now that I experienced an exceptional weekend. Wow, how times have a changed and it seems as if time flies, it seems like yesterday. It was the year I spent almost 3 months away from my wife, only to be reunited and treated by Mike Yaconelli from Youth Specialties at the National Youth Workers Convention in Dallas Texas with one of the best gifts I had ever received.

There were many things about that year I don’t know if I will ever forget. I had been on the road for almost 3 months working with The Rob Cassel’s Band. We had traveled up and down the Eastern Seaboard, and as far west as Phoenix Arizona that Summer. Along the way we were also booked to perform at the National Youth Workers Convention put on by Youth Specialties. I was to present at a workshop consisting of myself, Steve Taylor, David Hosler, and Anthony Campolo. Something else was about to happen though, I was going to be reunited with my wife and daughter whom I hadn’t seen in three months. I had been living in Greenville South Carolina, (actually on the road,) and my wife and daughter had remained living in Hillsboro Kansas, just north of Wichita.

The late Mike Yaconelli did something I will never forget. I had never met the man, although I had a deep appreciation for his work. He knew I was involved in ministry though, and had been away from my wife for awhile. Mike ended up booking a suite for me at the hotel where the conference was held. I think it was the Dallas Sheraton. My wife and I stayed in what must have been the honeymoon suite as we had a nice big hot tub in the room, a large bed, and a nice bottle of wine and fruit awaiting us. I will never forget this weekend for the love shown me. I will never forget it for another reason though, I will never forget it because one of the guests scheduled to appear at the conference was the incredible Wauhob Family. While they ended up not performing, the anticipation of seeing this band was about as great as my excitement to see my wife and daughter which I hadn’t seen in three months.

I had heard of The Wauhobs from a review which had appeared in The Wittenberg Door during the August / September issue of 1984. I had even tracked down and purchased the highly collectible album titled, Country Style Revival. I’ll never forget one of the great reviews of a musical artist ever written. Written by Bob Darden, the article captured the total brilliance and ability of The Wauhob Family. I felt that the article written for The Wittenberg Door likely contained the best paragraph ever written in anything related to music. The paragraph describing the drummer reads:

The band is centered around the expressive drumming of Thomas Wauhob, a wildly original percussionist in the mode of an Elvin Jones, a Billy Cobham or a John Candy. Thomas thumps along at a deceptively slow beat, alternating between the snare drum and the floor tom-tom until you think he's lost the beat altogether. Then, suddenly, in a burst of spastic, unchanneled energy he forges ahead, catches the beat, and makes up for lost time by double-timing the tempo. All of this in a space of a single bar, no less. Incredible! Be sure and listen to his urgent stop and start rhythms on "One More River," as he uses the flashy ploy of dropping a drumstick and fearlessly starting over (seemingly oblivious to the beat).
To read the review in it’s entirety you can visit the Wahob MySpace Page by clicking here. To go directly to the review posted on their blog you can click here. I would encourage everyone reading this to visit the page, listen to the music, as well as read all of the blogs listed. Sadly, it appears as if the page is not well maintained as the band has not updated the page since August 24, 2007. I don’t know the reasoning for that, I do know that a follow up or regeneration of this band could be one of the greatest comebacks in the history of recorded music. Of course I realize there are those, and at times find myself agreeing with the fact, that with such brilliance, a follow up would likely be a let down, after all, why would one take the chance of following up brilliance and perfection?

I have written many serious articles over the years for various publications. My words have appeared in Time Magazine, Christianity Today, Hollywood Jesus, The Christian Leader and the list could go on and on. I don’t think I have ever written any more serious words than these, check out The Wauhobs. Lighten up, listen to the musical genius, then listen intently to the serious rhythms that make their music pure joy. Maybe the music isn’t your style, but the message is pure, and I assure you, if you open your heart, you will experience joy, joy from their musings over the years, their reviews, and joy from the fact that none of us, not Billy Graham, not Nolan Ryan, not Michael Jordan, not John Grisham, not you, not even yours truly are perfect. We can try though; we can find ways to bring joy into our life, even if it is listening to the wondrous melodies of a group like The Wauhobs.

Now the ultimate lesson and intent of the article, really not a biggie, but, I will say, I am not an instrument, or paid reviewer or author for The Wauhobs. Even if they offered me a country fried steak dinner, a 4 ply corn cob supply for life, or a dollar for every ticket sold to their concerts, I don’t think I could write enough about this group to make a living. Therefore, I choose to just spread a little joy into your life. I know you need it; I know I need it, not as much as you because I have listened to The Wauhobs today, have you? I haven’t just listened to them, I listened to a whole 5 songs, all the way through, have you? I have smiled, I have laughed, I have found joy in the most unusual of places. Have you?

In closing, there is a final thing I know, don’t think I know, but know I know. I know that the joy of the Lord is my Strength. I have found a way to experience that joy today, have you?

To listen to a great song, click on the video below, if the video don't appear, just cllick on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra4AOsefjzw

To visit the Wahob MySpace Page, and listen to numerous other songs, read reviews and more click this link here.

Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. 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
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

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Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Where is Love?

A homeless person is ignored by the preacher, the Christian, the politician. They are hungry, without food, without hope, without promise, without a pillow, without a coat. They are political pawns, soldiers, the mentally ill, and the unemployed. Where is Love?

A prisoner is in jail, one deserving, another not. One is guilty, one innocent. Both have family, both have responsibility. They have a heart; have regret, but no future outside of the bars that keep them captive. Both are condemned, both found guilty. Where is Love?

A prostitute walks the street to pay for food, to pay for drugs, to pay for rent, to pay for a birthday present of a child at home. There is no future, no hope, no promise, and no job. Society mocks, but fails to understand the heart of the abused. Where is Love?

There is a beaten child, beaten beyond recognition. They cry, but no one hears, they want, but no one gives. The child is ignored, turned away until too late. Then we get angry, pretend to care, seek justice, in death and heartache, but not life. Where is Love?

There is the immigrant, from across the border. They want for family, to feed them, earn for them, care for them. They take a chance on this thing called freedom, only to be rejected. Send them back, terrorists, evil, yet human. Where is Love?

There is the rich, easy to hate, blame them for our lack. They worked hard, have learned to love, and some learn to give. They excel, they feel, they hurt, they cry, just like you and I. Take their money, tax them more, we deserve it. Where is Love?

There are the lonely, no family, and no friends, in a darkened room all alone. There is a radio, a television, a singer, a song and a landlord. The sound of passing traffic, one hears a siren, an ambulance, a policeman, but not a voice. Where is Love?

A saint sings about injustice, but no one hears. A message of justice, of peace, of love, that message doesn’t sell. The singer sings, the singer gives, some listen, some learn, some care, or so they say. When he dies he is buried in a simple pine box, no one notices. Where is Love?

There is the Arab, a different faith, one we don’t understand. They must all be terrorists. Can we trust them? Can we know them? Can we take a chance? They have their names, they have their ways, it is all because of them, and we know it. Where is Love?

The sick, no insurance, they don’t deserve it, or so we think. They are contagious, who can visit? We don’t have time, don’t have the desire, and don’t have the immune system. Some die, and then we grieve, no time during life. Where is Love?

The Husband doesn’t have time to be a father, don’t have time to love his wife, he works, and works, and works, and works. Then there is the game, the friend at the bar, maybe the computer deserves time, there are so many distractions. Where is Love?

The wife works; she has her job, not just an outside job, but also at home. She is sometimes a single mother, sometimes in a family. Two jobs to pay the bills, forget the kids not enough time. Things she can’t do without, but others sacrificed. Where is Love?

The union worker works hard for others, or is it themselves? What about the owner, the partner, or firm? They want their own, no matter the concern. Better jobs, better wages, better benefits, and more. Sometimes they just want to even the score. Where is Love?

The employer cares for themselves, better pay, vacations, cars, and more. They get paid more, yet are misunderstood; they take the chance, but sell their soul for a higher profit margin. People talk behind their backs. Is it just ambition? Where is Love?

There is a slave in a far away land. Maybe close to home. We pretend to not know them, pretend they don’t exist, but they do. Children around the world, and women there to, there please others, but what can we do? Where is Love?

The drug addicts masks their pain, they mask it with drugs that drive them insane. It’s their fault, their problem, their pain so why care. They destroy themselves or so we think, we all pay the price for addictions. But we let them drown. Where is Love?

The black man is hated in the south, but not just there, inequality, injustice exists everywhere. Blacks hate Whites; Whites hate Blacks, Mexicans hate Asians and you get the point. We say we don’t but hatred is everywhere. Poor Martin, poor Rosa, have we forgot? Where is Love?

The poor still exist, they still do without, some are poorer than others, but they still have reminders. A nice car, nice television, nice clothes, a good meal and nice bling, those things we judge, yet never consider, they use the system, and we leave it at that. Where is Love?

Then there’s the preacher, he pretends to care. He is so caught up in hearing himself that he forgets about the people he is supposed to serve. Made any visits? Prayed for your friends? Give to the needy? Know any non religious folks? Why or why not? Where is Love?

Then there is a King, who stepped from his throne, for the homeless, the prisoner, and the prostitute to. He loved the beaten child, Mexican, and rich, their needs and love unbound. Not just for them, but the lonely, saints and Arabs too. There is the sick, husband and wife, the union worker and employer the gift is offered to. The slave and addicts, the blacks and the poor, even the preacher is loved by the King of all Kings. That king loves us, he offers us all, but do we share it, or give it he taught us to? Or hide it and horde it, as if we don’t really care? Where is Love?

Some may think the following song has no identiy with the words above. I disagree. Listen, watch, just click on the video, if the video don't appear, just click on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRXAX47cxqQ

Here is another video that shares much of what The Virtual Pew is all about. The song is by Michael W. Smith, Love One Another.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_7i-WCM0lY

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

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

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Larry Norman Good Bye Friend, See You Later

Over the years I have been blessed to be unique in ministry. I believe I am someone that seems to be understood and accepted by those often called the Lost, the Last, and the Least by those in religious circles, or even sometimes within their own communities. I have been blessed to call those often neglected by the church friends, and they likewise. While some may have no understanding of this, I consider it among the greatest honors of my life. I have had people ask me from all walks of life, “How did I get to be the way I was?” “Why do I seem so different from other Christians?” Those questions and others of that type remind me that I am reaching out to, hopefully showing love and compassion to people who don’t always receive it from the religious community. While people have talked about my hair, or other aspects of my life, I hope it is obvious; here I am talking about Jesus just the same.

I have heard people say, “Mike marches to the beat of a different drummer, I wonder where he gets his thoughts. I hope that all of my thoughts, actions, and beliefs come from Scripture, but sometimes we study, learn from people who helps mold us. There was a time in my life where the single most important things of life were missing; among those was an understanding of love, and a future with hope. While Christ, a youth pastor named Tommy and my wife showed me what it was to love, there was another who gave me an measure of hope that would grow, but they also provided much of the theological understanding that I would put into practice for likely the duration of my life, not just in vocation, but ministry, but not just ministry, but in day to day, moment to moment aspects of life. I looked many places for answers but was always challenged with the question, “Why don’t you look into Jesus, he’s got the answer.”

There is no doubt, Larry Norman was a man who moved me and motivated me in ministry. He planted a seed of hope through his music that would grow like a mustard seed, to the place that I would dedicate my life of not just talking about being like Jesus, but I would actually try to become as much like Jesus as is humanly possible. I wouldn’t just preach the words, but hopefully live a life that showed love and compassion to all segments of society, including the homeless, the prostitute, the drug addict, the abuser, the abused, the Atheists, the Wiccan, the Christian, the Homosexual and the list goes on and on. It is an approach that has cost me finance, lack of respect and then some from the religious community, but I know that before me, it also cost Larry Norman as he lived a life and wrote music that inspired and encouraged this type of walk with God. While I have had physical threats, I knew that Larry had death threats. Maybe one day, I will make such a change that people are threatened. Threatened with the real love, and the real salvation provided by Christ. I want to sing that Sweet Sweet Song of Salvation just as Larry sang, I want to sing it with my life.

I had the honor to meet and talk to Larry several times over the years. I was always blessed, Larry, before he ever knew it, was the one God used to provide a homeless kid from Tennessee with something called HOPE! I had the chance to share that with Larry a number of years later while we were doing a concert at Cornerstone in Chicago when I worked with the Rob Cassels Band, aka Rob Castles. Larry was there that year and we got to spend some time together. This was special as we had spent some time backstage a number of years earlier in Knoxville Tennessee which is still to this day, thousands of concerts later, the best concert I ever attended. I think the first time I saw Larry I was a little star struck, after all I was a new Christian who had just become familiar with his music and was actually homeless at the time, living in a YMCA homeless shelter. It was almost as if Larry was an unidentified flying object. I didn’t quite know what to expect, but I was impacted and moved, I knew and learned about Jesus, that even if there was life on other planets, I was sure that he must know, he would have even gone there once already and have died to save their souls.

Larry Norman was special; he attacked the gates of Hell with full force. He didn’t sit back, waiting on the church to come on board; he was in the front lines of battle, challenging the church to come along with him. Some years later, many came on board; there are a few of us who were there on the forefront in those battles with him, maybe not side by side, but in spirit and in our own communities. I will admit, I wept like a baby as I read the news of his death this week. It is ironic though, on the morning of his death, I had the honor of presenting to about 4,500 people in Kansas City at Municipal Auditorium. It was a wrestling tournament to a largely unchurched audience. For some strange reason, one I don’t know, I felt compelled to share the message of John 3:16 with an audience I normally don’t share that message. I normally share a message titled, Wrestling with God, but for some reason wanted to do a more straightforward message about faith and the person of Jesus Christ. I spoke to the tournament director, a Christian, who told me to pray about it. I had, and was drawn to the John 3:16 message. I knew I was ready, but I had known for many years that when it came to sharing the message of Christ, I wish those who call themselves followers of Christ could say without doubt, without hesitation, I wish we’d all been ready.

For some reason, I will always remember, that on the day God took Larry home, I did something I normally don’t do. I think that was the Holy Spirit doing something in my heart that would give me the ability to reflect on the work Larry did in life, and then be challenged to keep on in my work. I don’t know? I do know I grieve, and I do know that with the life Larry led he motivated me and moved me, not just a few times, but many times over the years. I knew, I could be a righteous rocker, even a holy roller, I could be most anything, but without love I ain’t nothing.

If you don’t know who Larry Norman was, you should, especially if involved in music, the arts, or anything of that nature. There is no doubt that he had an impact on society. Time Magazine called him the most proficient song writer of the 20th Century, there was a reason groups like U2 honored him, Bob Dylan learned from him, and others have been moved by him. I was honored that I could call Larry friend. He, his dad and I spoke over the phone over the years. I had the honor to spend one on one time with him a few times over the years, although longer ago than I would have liked. There is good reason I grieve, because I will greatly miss the man Larry Norman. I will see him again though; after all I as well am only visiting this planet.

Below follows various videos of Larry, or tributes to his music by other artists. If the video appears, click on it, if it don't, click on the link:

Why Should The Devil Have All The Good Music
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BznsjIe5sMk

]

Song for a Small Circle of Friends
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkbSanu__w8

Why Don't You Look Into Jesus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TliWDSLrYb8

I Wish We'd All Been Ready
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QyVx41IPBc

Sweet Sweet Song of Salvation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M64Izj7na0E

The Outlaw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuGcLDv5nvM

Messiah
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdynIgBCYGs

Sitting in My Kitchen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG6-cPmaE7s

Larry Norman & Michael Roe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmdvYmx-RFw

The Great American Novel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTlr-73DQq8

Six Sixty Six
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4qJYjDPZ78

I Hope To See You In Heaven
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBODgYVVGvY

Goodbye Farewell
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkX3kj5o0Yc

I Am A Servant
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75KPMIAUfww

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

The Virtual Pew News #16, Thank You

Well after a crazy few weeks I figure it is time for an update. You will quickly see why it has been a few weeks since I sent something out.

I guess one of the last things people heard about was the request for funds regarding my wife Mary Jane’s need to spend some time with her brother Larry before he died. Larry has cancer, and short of a miracle from God he only has a short time. At the writing of this newsletter Mary Jane will be returning to Kansas from Tennessee tomorrow afternoon. I can’t say thanks enough to those who supported and believed in this ministry enough to provide the needs in getting Mary Jane to Tennessee, plus enough to get her there for the funeral when it occurs. All I can say is God is good! We obtained enough support allow Mary Jane to spend time with her brother, but also to return for the funeral. There is also the possibility that Nathan and I will attend the funeral. I must say, I feel that I made a mistake and if I had things to do over I would do them differently. Nathan and I would have gone on the initial visit to spend time with Larry while he is still alive. I know I don’t always make the best decisions and this is one I would have made differently. That said, we know each of you who provided financial support or prayed for us have been used by God. Our prayer is a blessing from God, and an opportunity for you to experience the fullness of love from God.

There is another reason I have not been as active lately. While hosting a poker night at the house a few weeks ago, we had a number of friends and former church members over; I accidentally ran a wooden skewer from a ka-bob almost through my hand. It didn’t bleed much, didn’t think that much of it after putting on Neosporin and washing it out. That wasn’t enough though. The hand developed a rather serious infection which is just now clearing up. Mary Jane talked me into going to the Doctors and I am glad I did. I would have never thought an infection could hurt that bad, and run the risk of damage it did. The hand is close to 95% better though, and I am soooooo, glad.

I have also been active doing some things with Hollywood Jesus. I was able to watch a couple of screeners. I am working on reviews of a documentary with an interesting twist towards Christian film making, and a wonderful movie that just came out on DVD called Martian Child. I was honored to get to interview 10-year-old child star Bobby Coleman. He starred with John Cuscak in the movie. I will be running the interview and getting the review up this week. For those critical of Hollywood, know that wonderful movies like this encourage and tell the story of adoption, plus the love of a father and child. The interview with Bobby which you can hear by visiting www.blogtalkradio.com/hollywoodjesus is one of the most fun interviews I have ever done. In the interview Bobby brought up his involvement with his church and how much fun church can be.

Things are also continuing at Youth Horizons. I am working three nights a week which is allowing me reading time, devotion time, as well as time to get caught up on things. I am also using this time to interact with friends and individuals using the ministry via personal messengers.

Lastly, over the last weeks I was reminded of the importance of ministry and The Virtual Pew as I got to spend some one on one, face to face time with Curt Nelson. Curt is in the United States Army and recently returned from his time and service in Iraq. Curt and I maintained a regular interaction during his time in Iraq. To be blessed to spend face to face time, even at 3:00 – 5:00 AM was worth it. Curt is a dear brother, and one I expect to keep in touch with. We had an early morning breakfast on his drive back to Texas, and we stood outside in the winter morning temperatures for over an hour talking about everything from dating to family relations. Curt asked if I was going to do a blog on the time together. I told him I would write something, and I think a newsletter mention is a step up from what we spoke about. Hopefully, this a reminder that you are praying for and supporting a ministry that makes a difference, and is hopefully something that reminds you to develop real and lasting relationships with others.

The last weeks have been hectic. Of course there was the controversy that comes with this ministry at times. I challenged Christians to speak truth, alluding to the false email that many have sent around or seen about Barack Obama. Not as an endorsement of Obama, but as an illustration that with all people, even those we disagree with, truth matters. Then I have done a few video presentations, using the television show South Park to show some aspects of spiritual truth, including the language we use. It is amazing how some can find reason to complain, yet most of those very people are doing nothing to develop relationships with, or reach those who have been hurt by the church or for whatever reason not a part of Christianity. Our hope remains to show Christ to people and while there are those who disagree with the methods at times, I challenge that anyone can look at the testimonies of those who have responded, and then from there, argue with the methods that have brought people either to Christ, or to a point where they are willing to hear the message. I am confident; this is a part of what Paul meant in the Bible when he said he has become all things to all people in order that he may win some. Paul never compromised his relationship and obedience to Christ, but found unique ways to reach a culture in their environment.

Truth is, while family members die, hands have injuries, and other difficulties come about, God is still good, all the time! He provides funds when funds are needed, he has doctors in place to help as help is needed, he reaches people most consider unreachable, and he develops relationships and friendships across oceans. One thing is for certain, those who know me, know I speak my heart and speak the truth as I see it and know it. That said, for those who don’t know Christ, I challenge, he is still alive, and still working on this planet. Some of you are helping to assure that, some of you are praying and responding to encourage me and others. To all of you, thank you from the bottom of my heart, God bless you, and know that God is still love and that when we love Him, and love people, we have kept the greatest of all commandments. Thanks for your love, it has touched my family.

I wanted the video from the movie The Gospel, God Is Good All The Time, but couldn't find it. I did find this one from Dan Moen and it is kind of fun and has the lyrics with it. If you don't see the video just click on the link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQhB-c0cIhw

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Mike Furches MySpace Page
Mike Furches MySpace Blog
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group
MySpace The Virtual Pew Group
The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page
To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Just For You

You are important and I want you to know that you can feel free to contact me at any time. I always try to respond to comments posted here, when appropriate, and have learned from my work as a counselor and pastor that people need to know that they are important. My contact information is available and I encourage you to contact me when need be. The fact that you are a real person is not lost on me. While you are at it, if needing a place to plug in, you can also join and become a part of The Virtual Pew. Message boards and interaction are available there as well. Thanks for visiting and know that God loves you and so do I.