Aloha!

Wow! It's been a while since I have 'blogged' if that's the appropriate term. Many times I have written a blog but never seemed to complete it to the point to push the "publish post" button. Today I'm getting the last minute things together for a trip to the mainland for a weekend with the great folks at FBC Portland, TX and then on to see our family for the Christmas holidays. We are blessed to be able to take this trip due to the generous hearts at FBC Portland - we will be encouraging them in their giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering and in partnering with Lahaina Baptist in missions. We're also a little sad to leave our LBC Ohana during the holidays. This is our anniversary time of year with the church - three years - and Mele Kalikimaka here in Hawaii. But, we will be spending Christmas with our families, so all is good! I'll try to send updates throughout the trip as we minister and recharge for another great year ahead in '09. Be blessed today and have a fine Aloha Monday.
Aloha -

Not Quite Sure?

If you're like me this morning, you're not quite sure of the direction of the future of our country. Don't misunderstand my point - it's not because of who is elected to the positions of leadership in our country, but because of the division in our country of our people. Many people are polarized to the degree that if their party or candidate is not in office, they can't see anything positive about the future. Not only do they remain negative in their minds, but also in their words to others. It is though the US revolves around either Democrat or Republican and the two have no common middle ground. Our prayers are to be for our leaders regardless of party afiliation, but also for our nation. Join me in prayer that this division will be healed before our next elections and that we can think and vote clearly according to God's choice and not our party's. We are still His people, so remain faithful to pray for our country and her return to God through revival.
Aloha -

Tomorrow is Coming

Many people that I speak with are concerned about the elections and the items that are on the ballots for tomorrow. Many are concerned about who the president will be and how divided the country appears to be and will remain, regardless of who is elected. Many are concerned over the local and state issues and where the money will be allocated for this and that. We have so many decisions that are hanging in the balance, but tomorrow is coming and we'll try to figure it out after tomorrow. Thankfully, I don't have to worry about it - God already told me. Don't get too excited because He didn't tell me who would win or how the rail transit system will fare, but He already told me not to worry because He is still in control (Matthew 6:34.) This nation will never find a savior in a president or a political leader or party, but only in Jesus. Our Savior is still the only Redeemer that America can place her hope in. Have a blessed pre-election day - tomorrow is coming, but it's all under control.
Aloha -

My Ministry

Living in Hawaii, I often hear the good-natured, but sarcastic statements about "suffering for Jesus in Maui," usually followed by "Yeah, right!" I get accused of surfing for Jesus more than suffering. Just in case you have ever wondered, let me clear the air on this topic. It is often sinful-feeling to be able to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a place like this while serving our Lord, but it is still ministry, nonetheless. I enjoy meeting people from around the world on a daily basis and helping them grow in their relationship with Christ. I may speak with millionaires and homeless in the same converation or teach the Bible to the highly educated and illiterate together. I may share Christ with the addicts of drugs and alcohol or the addicts of surfing and laziness at the same time with both of them looking for the Deliverer of their addictions. There are many more examples, but I think you can realize that ministry is whatever God has us doing according to His will in the places where He has placed us. As I go about "ministry" today, I hope God blesses yours, too.
Aloha -

Organization?

I have been working hard at being more organized. I like structure and organization, but I often run without any in my office, especially at the desk. My desk is usually so full of clutter than I can't find a clean space on the top. Recently, I moved an old desk back into my office to help spread the waste, I mean work. Now with the two desks in place, I feel so organized and am prepared to become much more efficient. Yeah, right. But, I like it for now. Just remember when I may be late in posting a new blog that I possibly can't find my keyboard! Have a uncluttered, blessed day - I'm trying to do the same!
Aloha

Monday Morning Quarterback

Usually football fans think they know exactly what must have been done for their team to win the game. These fans that vocalize their opinions are called 'Monday morning quarterbacks' because they are not on the field, but they have it all figured out just in case they were to be called in next game! I watched the Lahainaluna/Baldwin game this Saturday night in which our beloved Lunas ended up one point short of a victory on the scoreboard, but many points ahead in being true winners. I have had the privilege to be on many sport teams of many different levels with many great coaches and talented athletes. Even though I have experienced intense rivalries and high pressure situations all the way to National Championships, I have never seen a team of players give their all for an entire game as I witnessed from this Luna team on Saturday night. I watched young men battle injuries and cramps, fatigue and all of the other trials faced on the field, but they never gave up until the time was out on the clock. I am impressed with the determination of these young men to leave everything they had on the field and not hold anything back. They played with the respect, dignity and class that was expected of them. Regardless of the score, Lahainaluna High School is proud of the team that represented them Saturday. My hat is off to you, Lunas, and I'll keep proudly supporting you until we bring home the state championship trophy his year! Imua!
Aloha -

Oh My!

The day has come - my little girl is 16! Just a few short days ago, she was all of three pounds, twelve ounces in the NICU at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. She came six weeks early because she couldn't wait for her turn in the regular part of the newborn section of the hospital. She had to get out and check things out! She still is that way today. But, she's also still Daddy's Girl. She has grown to be a lovely young lady, just a beautiful as her Mother, yet with some of Dad's good qualities (if you can believe that I have any.) Her days are filled with smiles and joy and friends that text all day and night. On occasion, she may grumble about doing chores or having homework, but is mostly a happy young lady. I know, one day soon, I'll see her go to college, get married, get her first real job and many other facets of life, but for now I'm struggling with today. My little girl is growing up and I pray for God's protection, wisdom and joy to be hers. Happy Birthday, Sis! I love you - Dad
Aloha -

Midweek Already?!?!

Wow - time has a way of zooming sometimes. We have had a great week so far at the Martin household even though we have faced some challenges. Taylor will be 16 tomorrow and Wendy has been working feverishly to make sure that her party goes well. She will be having a combo party with Brandon because he just turned 16 also and they are close friends from church/school. I shouldn't be so amazed that a few days have passed so quickly when I think of how fast the past 16 have gone. I'll share a little more about Tay's big day tomorrow. Get ready - it will be here like a flash!
Aloha -

My Daily Exercise

I'm in the office for just a few moments playing catch-up before I head to the LPGA Kapalua Classic. Yesterday, during the pro-am, I sat at one of my favorite holes, #3, and recorded the scores for the teams as they played through. Today, I'll be walking with a group leaving #1 at 12:20ish, so I'll be getting my exercise while walking the Bay Course. I hope you have a great day and tune into the Golf Channel if you can. Be blessed!
Aloha -

A Quick Break

Over the next few days, I'll be taking some time out of the office. Every January, Dad and I volunteer for the Mercedes-Benz Championships, the first PGA Tour event of the year here at Kapalua's Plantation Course. This year, the LPGA is coming to Kapalua for the inaugural Kapalua LPGA Classic, a tournament that should bring over 100 of the LPGA's best to the Bay Course. Soon after January, I received a letter from the volunteer headquarters that asked if would I be available for the LPGA tourney and I signed up to be a walking scorer - one that walks with a three-some each day and records each shot of each player in the group. It sounds like fun, but I'll find out tomorrow. Keep an eye on the Golf Channel if you can - I might be walking with the winner! Have a blessed week and I'll try to keep everyone updated on who I will be with through my Facebook account.
Aloha -

Monday Morning Rush

After a great weekend, I sometimes get caught behind a Monday morning rush of stuff to do. Today is one of those Mondays, but it seems to be manageable. Tonight, when I get back home, I'll nestle in my throne chair in the living room and watch football and think of how I'm glad that the day is over. But, now is the time that I have to remind myself to enjoy every moment of this day and allow God to do what He has designed for it to be. I hope you start your day that way also, because the busy-ness of our days can cause us to miss the best parts of it. Have a blessed day and then enjoy your football tonight.
Aloha -

Whatever You Want

I'm not a fatalist that believes that events are totally destined to happen regardless of our involvement and that God has a fixed plan for every move of ours that we cannot resist. But, I know that He works through and in circumstances of our days to His will. Today, I was going to take off from the office and join Wendy at the beach, since she is out of school for the fall break. I woke up to take Taylor to Driver's Ed (thanks, David!) and realized how cloudy it was outside, even in sunny Lahaina town. So it appears that the beach day has been postponed for a car washing day at the house - do you think that God wanted me to wash and wax Wendy's car instead of snorkeling? I'm not sure, but He definitely knows how to arrange things that work in my favor! Be blessed!
Aloha -

Piece of Paradise

As I was driving to the office this morning, I noticed a cruise ship sitting off-shore that must have moored last night. As the ships come into Lahaina, we do not have port facilities that are large enough for a cruise ship to dock, so they remain off-shore and shuttle their guests to town. Sitting off of the coast, they give the appearance of being very large and even look imposing to the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. The ship I saw this morning looked beautiful sitting in the cobalt blue waters of the Pacific with the emerald island of Lanai in the background with just a hint of morning sun reflecting from the white exterior. Some may consider this place a piece of paradise, but I remained amazed at the fact that if this place is so beautiful, yet is cursed by sin, how much more incredible will the perfection of Heaven be! Be blessed today in your piece of provisional paradise, but keep looking for the perfect one to come.
Aloha -

Oooooooo!

Yesterday, I took a little trip to the chiropractor. Actually, it was the massage therapist at the chiropractor's office, but he does alot of the same stuff. My lower back has continued to bother me over the past few weeks and he found the spot that needed to be corrected. Oooooo! That hurts! But, it is already feeling better and he gave me a few exercises to strengthen my back in that place that should have me pain-free in no time. His explanation of my problem and a few points to learn about stretching and exercise reminded me of how intricate our bodies operate and how one part can suffer because of the inabilities of another. The human body is so fine tuned that it is incredulous to imagine that we evolved into these creatures that we are. Now, I know that topic is one that will be angrily debated until the last day, but as for me and my house, we believe that in the beginning, God created. Make "Realizing that you're blessed by God" number one on your priority list today.
Aloha -

Too Many Blessings...

I already consider myself to be blessed beyond belief whenever I consider the fact that I have eternal life, abundant life and an overall great life in Jesus. But when I factor in the many other blessings of life, I realize that I have been overly blessed. Consider my family: I have a wonderful wife and two healthy, smart and otherwise fantastic children who love me and make each day a genuine treat. Consider my ministry: I have an incredible church ohana that loves me and my family and supports, encourages, and shares the abundant life with us each day. Consider my community: I have a beautiful city with many great people that I talk with, coach with, serve with, play with, surf with, eat with - you get the picture - and they are super. Consider my trials and struggles: I have far too few compared to the blessings, so I'll keep trusting God to walk me through them. Have a great day counting your blessings - name them one by one if you have enough time.
Aloha -

Into The Weekend

Fridays are the door into the weekend. If you have a bad Friday, the weekend usually seems OK, but if you have a great Friday, the weekend seems excellent! The Maui County Fair is in so we'll make a trip to Wailuku and check out the rides and the food. My favorite part is the exhibition hall where the incredible flowers are displayed. There we will find orchids of every kind and color, tropicals that are amazingly beautiful (even more than normal!) and other flowers that I never knew existed. With that introduction to the weekend tonight, it's looking pretty good. I hope you're going to have a great weekend and remembering how you are so blessed.
Aloha -

Abundant Living

You may have seen the video of Matt, the guy that travels the globe to dance. Here is the clip from his 2008 journeys, if you haven't seen it yet. One thing I noticed in Matt's video is that he seems to have not any problems in getting individuals to join him. His objective is to dance a silly little dance, but it draws others into joining him because of the lack of fear that he shares and their desire to be involved with something that appears to be fun and unhindered. Why can't our lives in Christ be so contagious? Are we afraid to live unhindered by man's points-of-view and live openly in the power of the Holy Spirit? Is the life in Christ supposed to be joyous and stress-less? Can our love of the abundant life in Christ be contagious or infectious to the world around us? I hope this video can inspire you to live joyfully in Christ. Dance blessed today.
Aloha -

Schedule? What Schedule?

I often ask myself, "Self, why do I even try to arrange my days?" It seems that I work more effectively when I have a schedule to follow, yet my schedule is usually wrecked by 10am anyway. I worked hard to make that schedule, straining my brain to make sure that I could do all that I needed to do in the short day that I had to work with. But, even though I may stay a little less organized at times, I know God has it all figured out and if that's what He wanted me to do, then I did my best to follow Him rather than the calendar. He used the time better than I would have anyway. Go about your day blessed and follow God over your schedule, whenever He says.
Aloha -

The Beauty of Friends

I just finished talking with an old friend on the phone. He called and we talked for a while, catching up on the past few years. I find myself pulled between two feelings - the great joy of being with friends and the great joy of having friends that you're connected to even through time and distances. A mixture of blessings, but I am thankful for them both. Praise God that He allows us to be touched for life through the friendships and lives of others. Be blessed today remembering those that God has used many times to minister to your heart.
Aloha -

In a Somber Mood

Black Saturday has arrived at our home. The day began with a loss to Ole Miss from my beloved Gators and ended with a loss to Alabama from Wendy's favorite, the Dawgs from UGA. If there is one bright spot to Black Saturday it is that Sunday's coming!
Try your best to see how you're so blessed. We are in spite of the external circumstances.
Aloha -

Huh?

Do you ever hear a story from someone that seems really important and powerful to them, but you just kinda say, "huh?" It's like you don't see what the big deal is - but then, what do you do? Have you ever honestly stated that you don't get it? Or have you nodded and produced this serious, thoughful look on your face to fake them out and make them think that you get it? Or looked concerned on the outside, but on the inside you thought that this was the stupidest thing you've ever heard? Or even shruggged and said, 'Wow' and just let it roll on. Before you answer, look in the mirror and record your own response to my questions - I bet your thinking something like this now! - Ha! I knew it! Go on your way and be blessed in knowing that God knows your heart and you can't fake Him out. And He loves you anyway.
Aloha -

A Song In My Head

I know that I should have a song in my heart, but today I have one stuck in my head. It's no wonder that it got stuck in there - I usually keep it pretty cluttered, but that's a different blog for another day. But, two questions come to the other, unoccupied part of my mind whenever I have a song hung in my thoughts: 1) How does it stay in there in spite of all of the other stuff that runs through my mind that doesn't get stuck? and 2) How do I get it out!?! Hmmm. I already know that tiny things please tiny minds, so please don't send my any advise along that trail and I do have real things to think about also, so I'll be moving on now - Go blessed today and a hui hou.
Aloha -

SYATP

Today was SYATP. For those of you that don't know what that is, the initials stand for See You At The Pole, a student-led prayer time around the flagpole at school where the students can gather and pray as one group for the needs of the school, city, state, country and the world. We were fortunate to share last night with a rally for the students of our local Lahaina schools and over 100 showed up to praise and pray together in preparation for SYATP. I hope you had a chance to gather with your local students this morning and God encouraged you as He spoke with them. If you didn't attend at a school this morning, look to gather with the kids next year - it's already scheduled for Sept. 23, 2009. Of course, our kids are welcome to gather everyday and pray - get involved and have a blessed day.
Aloha -

Ah, Monday

I love Mondays. Most people say they don't like them, but I think they're great. Mondays are the days where you can make a mistake or two and just blame it on being a Monday. You can chill out when you have lots of work in front of you and blame it on being a Monday. You can forget a little something and blame it on being a Monday - oh, wait - that happens every day for me - no Monday excuse for that. But anyway, you get my picture? Mondays are great and I hope you have a blessed one.
Aloha -

Warning: Weekend Ahead!

I seem to have fallen into the 'too-busy-for-free-time" trap lately and the weekend becomes a blur of activity. This weekend, I have on the schedule one JV football game, one varsity football game, one Pop Warner football game, one varsity volleyball game, two birthday parties, two worship times at church, one leadership training class, two leadership team meetings, one lunch date with 60 missionaries, two mission outreaches to our homeless community and I still have to find the time to watch the Gators beat Tennessee! Warning! Warning! The weekend is coming, the weekend is coming! If I survive it all, I'll see you on Monday. Have a great blessed weekend!
Aloha -

The Power of a Storm

Even though Maui is considered by many to be paradise on Earth, it still lacks a few of my ideal things. Growing up in Louisiana, thunderstorms became a frequent part of my life. I regret the damage that the hurricanes have brought to many in these last weeks, but I truly love the sound of a thunderstorm with the crashing thunder and strong, steady rain. Something about that familiar sound is soothing to me and it somehow restores me at times. Beautiful, endless sunny days are wonderful and I'm not complaining, but I often find myself longing for the memorable tones of a storm. God uses many ways to touch our hearts and refresh us in our times of need. I hope He sends your favorite your way today. Go be blessed.
Aloha -

Mid-Week Stretch

Some days, I have the pleasure of sitting in my favorite chair in the office and reclining for a few moments. I call it "The White Chair" because it's an old white leather recliner-type chair. This chair has the unbelievable ability to draw every bit of energy from you within minutes and drop you into a perfect quick nap. When it's "white chair time" you can cancel communications for about 20 minutes, but I will come back refreshed. Wednesdays have that same effect - it's a mid-week stretch that when it's over has somehow given you the endurance for the rest of the week. Enjoy your Wednesday and be blessed.
Aloha -

The Return of Blue

Vog - an unusual haze found in Hawaii that is a mixture of volcanic ash, vapors and stuff and a heavy humid fog-like cloud - it usually comes when the normal tradewinds fall and the winds slowly blow from the south. To residents of Hawaii, it brings sinus problems, watery eyes, congestion and many various forms of generally poor attitudes. Vog is a pain and we have endured it for the past few days. But, the blues skies returned today and the overall mood has greatly increased. Just another reminder of how awesome our heavenly home is going to be - no vog! Go blessed today and a hui hou.
Aloha -

Welcome Home

A few moments ago, I saw a rare sight on Maui - a hearse. In other places that I have lived, funerals are fairly common and the funeral homes and hearses are visible, but that's not a regular experience here. A few blocks down the street from my office is a Catholic church where a funeral is being held this morning. Seeing that as I drove past reminded me that life here is great, but very short compared to eternity. Some day, this life on earth will end and I'll begin eternity with God. Although I love this life, I can't wait to have Him look into my eyes and say, "Welcome Home."
I listen to the O.C. Supertones on occasion and one of my favorite songs is entitled, "Welcome Home." Here are a few of the lyrics:

Well, It's time like these and it's days like this
that remind me I'm living in the wilderness,
And you don't know when trouble's gonna come your way
Or when God's gonna give or take it away.

This life,
This life is fleeting,
Everything's dyin',
But one day I'll awake,
All my problems and my sin,
They won't mattter to me then,
"Son, welcome home."

The last verse states:

But I'm still here,
And I'm tired,
tired of sin and struggling,
tired of almost everything
and sometimes, small and clear
I could swear that I could hear
angels voices in my ear
sayin' welcome home.

Have a blessed day thinking that one day, you'll be home.
Aloha -

Deep In Thought

When you're surrounded by the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, the distance between places seems to grow. I look to the horizon and I can't see anything other than what is just a few miles away. According to GoogleEarth, I am geographically closer to the capital of Japan than the capital of my own country. Deep blue water confines me to this island, separating me from the rest of the world. What is below the surface? How many miles down does the bottom reach? More questions about distance fill my mind. Yet, I never have to wonder about where God is. His ways are higher and deeper and greater than I could ever know or imagine, but His presence is closer than I could ever need. He may appear to be distant to me at times, but I know that is only in my perception of Him because He is always with me. Today is a great day, regardless of it's outcome because my Lord is with me. I pray you have a great day also. Be blessed.
Aloha -

Wow - Time Flies!

Time moves by so quickly. I thought about timing it to see if there were really 24 hours in a day, but... yeah, you get it. Even though the days seem to pass quickly, I am looking forward to the eternal day with no end. How much can we pack into that day?! Meanwhile, I have plenty to do today, so back to work I go. Have a blessed day.
Aloha -

No Need To Say More

It's Aloha Friday - I am ready for it - no need to say more!
Have a blessed weekend!
Aloha -

Letting My Fingers Do The Walking

Remember the slogan "Let Your Fingers Do The Walking?" That was the Yellow Pages catch phrase for many years, and still is used today. I realized that my fingers do more walking on my keyboard everyday staying in touch with friends and family than they ever did using the telephone. I'm not a big phone fan, so when I can send a quick message around on-line, I prefer to do that before using the phone. Thankfully, with the increase in blogging and Facebook-style websites, we walk these keyboards more than ever before. I'm walking on, now. Have a blessed day.
Aloha -

Have You Enjoyed Today?

Sometimes I can get so busy in my day that I come close to forgetting to enjoy it. After I finally slow down and take a break, I may reflect on the day and savor it, but I must not forget to enjoy the time when it is present as well. With that said, I am reminding you to stay in an attitude of continuous joy knowing that your Heavenly Father has prepared this day and these moments for you - even this moment. Have a blessed day and hope you found a little happiness in the time it took you to read this.
Aloha -

Labor Day

Have you ever noticed that the day after Labor Day has more work in it that a normal day? I love to take the day off and I had a great time relaxing on Lana'i at our church picnic, but the Tuesday after Labor Day becomes a bear! Wow - what do you call the Tuesday after Labor Day? - Intense Labor Day? - Needing a Break Day? - Terrible Tuesday? Whatever it needs to be called, yesterday was still worth it! Have a blessed ____ Tuesday.
Aloha -

Plenty of Wins

Saturday was a fun day! It began with two football games at the "Imu," Lahainaluna's football field. It's called the Imu, because just like the Hawaiian cooking pit that it's named after, it gets hot during a game. The Lunas were victorious: first the JV defeated Baldwin High and then the Varsity crushed Kea'au from Hilo. Earlier in the day, my beloved Gators won over my next favorite Warriors. Finally, we visited Tom and Vicki's to look at their photos from the Olympics. There were plenty of wins today all around and it was a lot of fun. It's a great reminder that we are lanakila (victorious) in Christ. Have a blessed worship-filled Sunday.
Aloha -

Actively Living

I really enjoy life. It's an incredible concept that God devised in which we breathe and move and have our being in a world that is an unbelievable place in a personal relationship with the One that created it all. Although my body reminds me that I am not as youthful as I once was, I take every opportunity to engage in sporting events and various physical activities because I love to play. Last night, the parents of the Lahainaluna girls varsity volleyball team played a three game match against the team in which I played in two games. I left the gym early to play in my West Maui softball league game that began at 8:30. This morning... let's just say, I'm paying for actively living in a sense. But, it is worth every moment of it because God has given me the ability, health and chance to enjoy this life and as long as He leaves me here, I am going to love it! Have a blessed long-weekend, if you can, and a hui hou!
Aloha -

Congratulations!

This morning, I read several articles about the Little League World Series Championship team from Waipi'o, Oahu. Tears formed as I saw photos of the players at their first day back at school and how the students and communities received them so warmly and proudly. We are proud of our children as they fulfill accomplishments in life and learn that we are people of celebration regardless of our trials or successes. I also extend my congratulations to this team for their hardwork and dedication to play the game with honor. I encourage you to take the accomplishments of others around you today and celebrate with them, reminding them that through Jesus Christ, we should be the most joy-filled people in the world! Have a blessed day.
Aloha -

Mid-Week Relaxation

I haven't been able to keep my posts up to date in the past few days. Thankfully, I was able to figure out how to expand my i-phone knowledge to post one the other day, but this week has been busy. Sometimes in the midst of busy, I really need a recharge of my batteries. Today, I had a chance to play golf with one of my best golf buddies, Tom Shoquist. Tom and I walked and talked and hit and talked and - you get the picture - we enjoyed time together just to catch up and talk about what God is doing all around us. It was a mid-week respite that I've needed for weeks and I enjoyed it! I am so thankful that God knows us so well that He can provide the perfect medicine for us at the perfect time. I'm feeling refreshed -- I look forward to seeing you tomorrow! Have a blessed day!
Aloha -

Away From Home

Last night, I stayed in Honolulu because I had to attend two days of meetings at the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention office. It's not that I'm a homebody, but I would rather not spend a night away from home because of being apart from Wendy and the kids. We are always together, so I miss them. It's just another reminder to me that this world is not my home, either and I'm looking forward to seeing my wonderful Heavenly Father when this trip of life here is done. Have a blessed day away from home.
Aloha -

Physically Fit?

This week, I have battled a few minor physical ailments. Last Thursday, I pulled a muscle in my lower back and it is just starting to feel better. Tuesday, Wendy came home from school with a present for me - a head cold. Between the two ailments, I'm wondering how physically fit I am. I rarely get sick, so I think I'm pretty good there. I try to stay active on a daily basis with exercise and conditioning, so I think I'm OK there. But, we recently began Wii Fit - and, oh boy, am I in trouble! That little box and platform has me doing yoga stretches and balance games and aerobic exercises to the degree that I'm wondering what does it take to be physically fit! That thing must be crazy! I'll stick to the program with the Wii and see how it will help me stay healthy - in the meanwhile, I hope you have a blessed day and enjoy hanging out with God.
Aloha -

Excuse Me While I Put You On Hold

Yes - those are the words I have just heard. It's a phone call to an 800 number about our computer in the office at the church. I'm really grooving to this music though, so I can't say that I object to it, yet. Smooth jazz. One of my favorites. Hmmmm, mmmm, mmmm. Alrighty -- Still here. A few minutes pass by and I'm still grooving. Hang in there and give them just a few more minutes. Can I wait? Tick, tick, tick, tick. Oh well - let me put you on hold until tomorrow about the outcome of this situation. Have a blessed day!
Aloha -

here's the update - I ended up with a nice guy on the phone that walked me through the problem and provided everything I needed - it was worth it! How incredible is that?!!

Crank It Up!

Today, I am about to enjoy one of my many joys in being a pastor. I love preaching the Word, sharing the Gospel, worshipping with the saints, fellowshipping around the table, serving in Jesus' name and so many other joys, but this morning, I am mowing the grass at the church. Man, I love it! Andy is on vacation for a couple of weeks, so I'll weed-eat a little and then crank up that mower and pretend to be a NASCAR driver for about an hour. Hanging curves around the trees and dodging the flower beds -- watch out, Daytona! But, really I enjoy the solitude of the droning sound of the engine so I can think a little. God and I can talk without distractions. I'm alone behind the wheel and I find that time to be a special time. I thank the Lord for the times we share together wherever they may be. Have a blessed day in whatever you may be doing with God.
Aloha -

What Will Heaven Be Like?

For many people, there is a fascination with what Heaven will be like. Some say it will be a place of constant worship, while others say it will be a place of constant rest. Some say it will have the best of this world and no remembrances of the bad. Scriptures may give us a small view at times, but I think that it will be an incredible place regardless of what I do not know about it now. This morning, I am sitting at the keyboard earlier than normal because I am suffering through a sore lower back. Sore back and small waves means "no surf" so I am content to start my work a little earlier. But, I won't have any of the three in Heaven! Be blessed today.
Aloha -

Such a Beautiful Day

Sundays are great days in many ways. One of my favorite things is that I get to meet new people from around the country and the world, worship our awesome God together with them and give them encouragement as they minister to me. God's family is one huge ohana that truly covers all nations and tongues and peoples. If this is so amazing to me now, I can imagine it will be incredibly awesome when we get home! Have a blessed week.
Aloha -

Aloha, Aloha Friday

There's a song that comes on the radio here on Fridays called "Aloha Friday." We know from the words that it is some form of old 'drinking' song that summarizes the feel of kicking off the weekend. My favorite part, and the theme of the song is found in the chorus which states, "It's Aloha Friday, no work til Monday." It's now Saturday morning - Aloha, Aloha Friday. Have a blessed weekend!
Aloha -

Life on an Island?

Even though I live on an island, I feel very connected to the rest of the world. In the past, living on an island often meant isolation and separation, but with today's technology and with the exception of physical contact, it appears as though we are next door to each other. Communication is quick and effective through many means and I can stay in touch through telephones, computers, cell phones, text messages, blogs, video webcams, etc, etc. and never really have to feel alone. But, nothing can replace the presence of God in my life and regardless of where I find myself, I am extremely thankful that He is always with me. No cell phone needed... Have a blessed day!
Aloha -

The Worthwhile Struggle

Watching the Olympics, I am reminded of the struggle that these athletes subject themselves to for just a few short minutes of competition. Years of training, healthy eating, workout regiments, responding to coaches, traveling to meets and competitions, being alone at times or just away from family and friends - the list goes on and on. Even though all of this preparation comes for just a few brief moments of true action, to the athlete that is in the competition, it is all worthwhile. There may be a medal on the line or for some, just the opportunity to compete, but it all takes a great deal of effort. I pray that God will help me to understand the need I have to prepare with zeal and passion for the moments that He chooses for me to serve Him becuase they are all worthwhile. Have a blessed day in your training or competition for Team JESUS!
Aloha -

Aloha Monday, again!

What a blessed day yesterday was! That may not be good English, but it's true! Yesterday morning began as a beautiful day of worship and transitioned into the afternoon with baptism and fellowship with the church. We were honored to celebrate three baptisms after church, Ruth, Maile and A'aliyah. As we share our baptisms on a public beach, Kamehameha Iki, we were able to be witnesses to the life-changing power of Christ in the midst of beach-goers and surf schools. Keep us in your prayers as God is moving us from the areas of our comforts into His light and we are growing to reveal Him in all we do for Him. Have a blessed Aloha Monday!
Aloha -

Olympic Fever

Have you caught the Olympic fever, yet? Every four years, I catch it and watch hours of coverage during the evenings. But, this Olympic's bug is going to be much worse than ever before. It's not my fault - the television has too many options! NBC has coverage on a 24+ hour basis and there is always something on, not to mention that we have a DVR and I can record any of the events that I'm afraid I might miss. If you have any good recipes for chicken soup, let me know - I'm feeling a little feverish.
Aloha -

School Redefined?

As I now have a junior in high school (Lahainaluna!) and a seventh grader in my house, I am learning that the concept of 'school' has been redefined. The old saying of "School Days, School Days, dear old 'Golden Rule' days, reading and writing and 'rithmatic..." has been replaced by "Social Days, Social Days, 'Do what I want to do" days, texting and ringtones and no homework" - you get the picture? We are engaging in lively discussions over the importance of school as an educational thing, not an interpersonal relationship thing. Or, try to reason with a 12 year old over the need to close one mouth and open two ears for the maximum learning experience.
But, wait a minute - something is starting to really sink in - this has to do with me! Now I can begin to appreciate how God feels when He looks at me - I'm constantly trying to redefine 'life'. You'll have to excuse me for a little while. I think I have created a thought too big for my brain to handle this morning. Let me know what you think about it. Be blessed.
Aloha -

A Great Board Meeting

Many times the phrase "board meeting" brings scary thoughts to mind. In Hawaii, it means that get-together with your buddies at your favorite surf break - get it - surfboards - board meeting - it just a figure of speech. But this morning, I had a great time with Tom and Andy, two great brothers in the Lord and some pretty awesome surfers, too. We had a chance to talk about what God is doing in our lives and encourage each other in our walks while we enjoyed some nice waves. We also had an opportunity to share Christ with a guy named Paul in the parking lot who is involved in a cult. He wanted to debate, but we just wanted him to get to know Jesus according to the truth of the Bible. I'm reminded of what Walter Martin, author of 'The Kingdom of the Cults' said: "...we are to have compassion and love for those who are enmeshed in the teachings of the false prophets, but we are to vigorously oppose the teachings, with our primary objective the winning of the soul, and not so much the argument.” Pray for Paul that the Word would guide him into the light of the truth about Jesus. Have a blessed one and a hui hou.
Aloha -

Did I ever tell you about the time...

Not long ago, a friend gave us a dvd of Christian comedians called "Thou shalt Laugh." All were funny, but one, Michael Jr. really cracked me up. One of his jokes was about how people seem to be finished with their conversation, when the words, "Did I ever tell you about the time..." come from their lips and a whole new conversation begins all over again. He related that to his pastor saying, "In conclusion, - did I ever tell you about the time..." to which he replied, "Pastor, did I tell you what time the football game was coming on?" I started thinking - blogs are like saying, "did I ever tell you about the time.." except it never ends. God has given us a new technological opportunity to share our amazing stories about Him in our daily lives and we can always go on to more. If you get a chance, pass your stories on to me - I would love to hear them. Some of you already have blogs, so send me your link and I want to catch up on what God's doing in your life. Have a blessed day and we'll talk again soon.
Aloha -

Another Aloha Monday

Monday is here - thankfully, it always follows Sunday. You know what I mean - Sunday's are usually great days, or at least I think so. My Sunday usually consists of: A cup of coffee (black Kona or Maui), great morning of worship and fellowship at church with da braddahs and sistas, lunch! (maybe BaLe's Chicken Pho - #23!), a little tv (football season is here again!), a nap (or two or three), a little more tv, hangout time with the family and then a collection of odds and ends of little jobs and projects that I always have going on. Sundays are made for worship and rest and I'm doing my best to be obedient! God is so incredibly good! So, Mondays are usually pretty good. I'm already loving this one - hope you are too.
- Aloha -

Happy Birthday!

Yesterday was my sweetie's birthday - we celebrated Wendy's #^th birthday! I have been blessed to be with Wendy for 19 years, 17 of them as her husband. She must either be really tough or have an extra measure of grace from God! Regardless, I hope we celebrate many, many more.
Aloha -

Summer is almost over!

Aloha to you and I'm sorry I have been away from the blog. This summer has been jam-packed and busy! Summer has flown by and now school is beginning again. The Lord continued great things during these months and I anticipate that He will provide more as we are faithful to follow His plan. During June and July, we had a chance to have a summer missionary at the church. Corey Perkins came in the end of May and just left last Sunday to return to Arkansas. Corey worked hard to build relationships and understand the ministries found throughout Maui. Prayerfully, we will have Corey back soon.
Rick Coram and his family are with us again during our special revival services. Rick has been faithful to proclaim and teach God's Word and the church is experiencing a refreshing from the Lord. Continue to pray that our Father will use us for His glory in the days ahead. Keep looking up!
Aloha -

May is here!

Aloha to you and I hope you were ready for May! We are moving through this year and God is continuing to bless us each day. As we finished our study on "Keeping Our Heritage Alive" many questions have come up about wanting to know more of the great Hawaiian heritage that surrounds us. If you have any questions, let me know and I'll try to find the answers with you. We are very blessed to have such a rich Hawaiian heritage and a solid Christian heritage. Keep on growing in Christ and have a wonderful day.
Aloha -

Right On Time

It has been a few days since I have placed a post - time seems to go by faster than ever!  All is well and God is solidly moving things in His direction.  Today brought a little rain to Lahaina and that reminded me that we always receive what we need in the time we need it.  I really had not noticed that the grass was dry and the hillsides were a little brown, but God's automatic sprinklers took care of it once again.  Mahalo Lord for meeting our needs - even the ones we fail to notice.

Aloha -

A Glorious Weekend

This Easter/Resurrection Weekend, God truly blessed our efforts in ministry in several amazing ways.  

Thursday and Friday night, the choir shared the message of Jesus in Whaler's Village and the Lahaina Cannery Mall.  The choir sounded fantastic and the crowds were great.

Saturday, our annual "He Is Alive" outreach at Honokowai Beach Park was phenomenal!  Over three hundred kids attended and the atmosphere was absolutely fun!  We were given the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with many in the neighborhood and it was a blast!

Sunday morning began with our "Sonrise" service and it was spectacular!  At 6 am, the moon was still bright and the sky gradually lightened while the choir sang.  The attendance was good and the 8 am worship was also perfect.  The 10:15 am worship was filled past capacity and again, the choir shared the cantata in an incredible way.  In everything, God blessed us to serve Him and seek His glory throughout the entire weekend.  Praise the Lord.

Aloha - 

A Pleasant Surprise

We hear thunder in Lahaina very rarely.  Yesterday, we had a few showers in town, but the thunder that accompanied the showers were a blessing to me.  I love to hear the crash and rumble of the thunder because it reminds me of the incredible power of our Father.  He is able to shake this earth with His glory at His command.  Aren't you glad that He is your Father and not your adversary?  Without Him, we would have no hope!

Aloha - 

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is a great reminder to us that we need to live our lives to prepare the way for others to know and believe in our King, Jesus.  We can get caught up in the busyness of life and forget that how we exalt Jesus as our King is evident to all that see us.  Is He the King in our conversations?  Is He the King in our intentions and actions?  Is He the King in our desires and our dreams?  If He is not, He should be!  Prepare the way daily for the triumphal entry of Jesus into the hearts of those around us as we faithfully live for Him.

Aloha - 

Get Involved!

This evening during our mid-week worship, we were able to shift from our Bible study to prepare for the "He's Alive!" Easter outreach at Honokowai Beach Park. Coordinated by LauraLee Hufalar, everyone worked in teams to fill Easter eggs with candy and label them with Scripture stickers. Some rotated to the training areas to train for their events at the park. Overall, it was a tremendous blessing to see all of God's people working together to prepare to minister to God's community. Many mahalos to all who responded to the call of God to get involved! Keep up the great work for His glory!
Aloha -

A Great Beginning...

This week began in a great way - we were able to celebrate the baptism of Jack Vantrease. Jack has been asking about being baptized for about two years and we were finally able to see it come to reality! I'll share a little more about Jack later. God is continuing to bless His work on Maui and we are very blessed to be a part of it! Keep on praising Him and we'll catch up again tomorrow.
Aloha -

Aloha - from in front of the computer...

Aloha and welcome to the Provisional Paradise - just a temporary place to serve and be blessed until we receive our eternal home with Jesus! This blog is an extension of the web ministry of Lahaina Baptist Church and is managed by me, Pastor Chris Martin. We desire for this site to be a place where harmony and unity is understood and appreciated and God is glorified. Feel free to visit and communicate with me anytime through this blog. I would love to hear from you and hear of what God is doing in your life. So, welcome! E komo mai!