We Are an International Family

There are many words that describe Newfrontiers, but two of my favorite are "international" and "family". Newfrontiers is international. We have churches in more than 50 countries and are working together to spread the gospel to all nations. Newfrontiers is a family. We are not held together by a statement of faith or denominational ties. We are joined together because of shared values, heart and vision. I say all this to bring in front of you an issue of prayer.

If you watched the news recently, you are aware of what is going on in Kenya. Although it's thousands of miles away, it's much closer for us who have brothers and sisters over there. When one rejoices, we all rejoice. When one suffers we all suffer. I would encourage you to include these brothers and sisters in your personal time of prayer as well as make an effort to join the Jubilee community when it gathers for prayer.

Here is a copy of an email that explains more of the situation in Kenya:

Undoubtedly you will be aware that Kenya is in turmoil. I have been in touch with Edward Buria (our main leader in Kenya) over the holiday and he has sent several texts. The situation seems to be developing along tribal lines, always a recipe for severe discord and blood shed. It is not easy to put together a snap-shot of the situation but, combining his texts and the international news, the following seems to be what is happening.

The BBC News website says:

Political veteran Mwai Kibaki claimed victory in controversial presidential elections in December 2007. His swearing-in for a second term in office prompted a wave of unrest across the country.

His rival for the post of president, opposition candidate Raila Odinga, rejected Kibaki's victory and accused the government of rigging the result.

International observers also expressed doubts about the poll, and called for an independent enquiry.

Texts from Edward:
1. Prayer at this difficult time for the nation which has been a great example for other African nations in the past
2. There is a shortage of food even in the town of Meru where they live (normally one of the food producing areas of Kenya)
3. Concern that the international reporting is not accurate, the rioting being in opposition held places.

I am sure your own hearing of the news updates will also provide further fuel for prayer

Top 5 Jubilee Moments of 2007

So many good things have happened this year that it's hard to limit it to five, but here's my top 5 Jubilee moments of 2007. Let me know yours!


5. Oneblaze in St. Louis, July 17-22

4. Any Sunday we had a baptism, January 21 (2), April 15 (5), May 20 (3), June 3 (2), September 9 (5), October 14 (3), and December 9 (1)

3. Acts 13 Meetings, September 27 & 28

2. Terry Virgo at Jubilee, March 4

1. First Meeting in our New Kingsighway building, April 1


Looking forward to many more great moments in 2008!

It's Going to Be Good!

Last night I peaked in on the volunteer choir who have been practicing for the last month. Not only was I inspired by their passion and dedication, but was very impressed with their performance.
You won't want to miss this Sunday. Bring your friends!

New Website

We have a new website. You can get a sneak peak by going to www.jubileestl.org.

A Christmas Present Worth Giving

Jesus coming to earth IS the biggest news event in all of recorded history. Whether you believe in Him or not, you will not find anyone who has had more books written about or more songs sung about than Jesus. In fact, history itself literally hinges on His birth (BC and AD).

The reason for this unprecedented fame is the meaning for which He came - to save the world from sin. Many, however, are skeptical of the facts and benefits of the Son of God taking on flesh. Luke who wrote one of the four gospels can relate to their doubts. He was initially skeptical, but came to believe just as he had heard.

For anyone you know who is skeptical or wants to be reminded of the beauty and wonder of this powerful event, the best Christmas gift you could give might be an invite to join Jubilee Church on December 23rd. We'll begin at 10 am with 45 minutes of traditional Christmas music and a 30 minute message from the gospel of Luke.

You can download this graphic to pass onto your friends in an email. Be sure to include our address or this link to google maps.

1 John Study Week 8

To download a copy of the 1 John Study Guide Week 8, follow this link.

Loving Each Other Like Family

One of my favorite times of the week is when my little family gathers around the table for breakfast. That usually happens for us on Saturday mornings. This morning I was basking in the joy of that moment. I said to Rachel and Ella (Simon was sleeping), "I'm so glad to be with my family." To which Ella replied and I quote, "We're missing a kid. Where's Simon?" As if to say, "This is great, but it's incomplete without Simon." And she's right - wonderfully right. And it brought me great joy that she would want Simon to be included.

I think it's similar with God's spiritual family (the church, us). He loves to be with the gathered family. He enjoys it and looks forward to it as should we. Therefore, the call to gather together (on Sunday or any other day) shouldn't be viewed as a legalistic command, but rather a time of joy and love and celebration of the gathered family of God. And I think He loves it when we say things like, "We're missing a kid. Where's ______?" Not as an accusation, but because it's just not the same without them! When we say it like Ella did, what could be more loving?