Beyond The Veil

Today I read a comment by my brother thrice (biologically, in Christ, in preaching) Pastor Kraig L. Pullam. He basically makes issue with those who constantly want to go "higher" in the Lord. His point was a good one... Instead of higher why not deeper??? Hmmm. I have always felt that way but never really articulated that clearly. (Well said BROTHER Pastor)

As I facilitate a survey of the book of Hebrews with our congregation, I am certainly feeling Pastor Kraig on this idea of going "deeper." Realizing that we have a "great high Priest on the order of Melchizedek" is a great starting point for the believer. To understand that we have been invited into the "Holy of Hollies" to dwell continually in God's presence is an idea that, in and of itself, shatters ritualistic/superficial/legalistic mindsets we see way to often. I want to take advantage of the opportunity to walk beyond the outer court and continue until I am in a place where God and I commune. Yes Pastor Kraig, I want to go deeper in my pursuit to draw closer. Over and over again the Hebrew author invites us to "draw near" (closer).

It's no small task though. It takes (chapter 5) "confidence" and (chapter 10) "full assurance of faith." Far too often we encounter those who are much to timid and/or unsure about their relationship with, and access to, THE Father. Thus, we see a disenfranchisement of an entire congregation (or should I say Parish) of people. They are infused with the idea that they must follow the "old", rather than "new and living" way. Catholics caught within the confines of a Confessional Cabin to cry "vain repetition" toward (not God) what they call the "Vicar of Christ"??? We are assured by the word of God (1 Timothy 2:5) "there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." The Vicar, Victory, and Veil were all conquered by Christ... We have the right to walk "Beyond the Veil" that was rent "from top to bottom" by Christ Himself.

So... with ALL that said. (lol) I accept Jesus Christ and the privileged access to the Father that comes through HIM and HIM ALONE. Though I "forsake not the assembling" of myself together with the people of God on a regular and consistent basis, I realize that the responsibility and practice of drawing closer to God is mine individually. So... I refute the idea that any Person, Priest, or Parish has the monopoly on God-access and can somehow usher me into a place that has not already been exposed through the work of Christ.

Well... I think I just felt like rambling. At least I posted though. Love you all

K.P.

Major Demands/Unlimited Supply

No doubt it's been several months since I last attempted to post. I probably don't have to convince the average Pastor that there have been several "swift transitions" during that time. High points (mountain top) and low point (valley lows) have come in their fair share. I have seen sickness, death, victory, and defeat. From passing of an infant child to walking across the stage to finally receive my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, it's been an eventful few months. Even now I am engaged in trying to lead or congregation through a "down time" into another "growth spurt." All of that while tackling two (yes It's crazy) Master's programs simultaneously. We can't forget the demands of family life. I have attempted to ever increase my involvement and effectiveness as a husband and father. I would guess it sounds like I am bordering or on the verge of complaining. However, that's not it at all. I am actually taking a moment to rejoice and thank the Lord for His unwavering and overwhelming providence. I the face of every DEMAND that life and ministry have presented THE LORD has been faithful to "supply all my need according to His riches in glory."

Kevin