His Touch Communications

A New Year for His Touch Communications

2010-02-16T06:44:00.000-08:00

Several people have asked "What's the Lord up to in your life since Chaparral?" The exciting truth is: "The Kingdom of God is on the move!"

For the past 25 years, my life mission has been to "help people experience the love and presence of Jesus Christ through Word, Deed and Song."

And, up until this past year, this outreach has mostly occurred through my service on various church staffs as Worship Leader, Teacher and Creative Arts Pastor for a wide array of age groups (from preschool, to VBS/children, teenagers, adults). After receiving my Masters Degree from Hope International University and being ordained in 2005, these responsibilities grew to include the more traditional roles of a minister as well - performing weddings and funerals, serving communion, and speaking publicly as needed.

In the center of all my ministry roles and responsibilities, I have continued to focus on keeping the Kingdom of God first - looking for those divine ministry appointments as the Holy Spirit directs to change lives and bring healing.

While suffering with MS for 7 years (I've been healed for 17 years now - "Praise God!"), I learned a lot about the voices that fight for our attention on a daily basis - the voices of the world, our flesh, our soul (mind, will and emotions) and the voice of the Spirit. While afflicted with various symptoms of my own, I found the Lord was divinely using my life to bring healing to others. (There's no question that Jesus is touching you, when the minister vessel in front of you is broken, eh?)

God's Spirit would "show up," and speak to my heart with scriptures and unusual pictures that - when I was faithful to speak them out in a heart of humility and service, trusting in His grace and no power of my own - would touch people's lives. They would begin to shake ... or feel heat... or tremendous peace... as Jesus ministered healing.

Over the last two years at Chaparral Christian Church, the Lord impressed upon my heart that He was going to bring to me those who were in need of the Kingdom. I found people coming to me at random from off the street in need of healing and deliverance... cancer cleansed, demon voices silenced, broken hearts renewed... I never knew what the Lord was going to do from week to week (in addition to my very busy ministry schedule at Chaparral!).

While leading the worship ministry of The Journey, it wasn't uncommon to have people come up to me and say, "I am here, visiting from a different city, and I was praying and asking the Lord where to go - when your church, and this time came to my heart. Thank you for your openness to the Spirit. I've received so much from what you shared."

People would say things like, "Why isn't this place packed? There is such a sense of freedom in the worship and the Lord's ministry through you..." and I would ask the Lord, "I appreciate that you are bringing people from various places to visit, but why isn't anyone staying?"

I realized, of course, that my paradigm for "listening to God" and the paradigm of those who I was serving alongside on staff, were two totally different viewpoints. And, while these occurrences continued to grow in number and intensity, I was becoming a "threat" to those I was serving under (something I never intended).

People would say things like, "Why don't they have you speaking more? When you speak, it's as if God is speaking to me ... such comfort and peace... I sense God's Spirit with you. They should be using you more..."

But what made it difficult for the pastors whom I was serving to simply fire me and let me go, was my model of ministry is far different than any Pentecostal model they had known. I don't "command" anything to happen. I don't tell anyone, "God told me this, and you need to do that." I don't bark out by faith a scripture over and over again ... or say, "You don't have enough faith unless you do it this way."

What I've learned is that Jesus IS the Lord and we are His servants. If we listen to His voice and truly open the door of opportunity for Him to do something first, He will take it and do wonderful things without me having to make "anything" happen. (The problem is: We tend to pray whatever "we want," whenever "we want it" and we tell God what to do. To be effective, we have to reverse the prayer process to do what "He wants" and when "He wants to do it." Our focus must become "what do you want to do here, Lord?" and then, do that. There is no blessing in the Lord without truly putting Him first. He is the source of true ministry and change. The struggle is how our ego and flesh fight to get in the way ... a lesson we must work to overcome throughout our entire life.)

I'm also a firm believer to submitting to those in authority and trusting that God will use their lives to direct and guide. I'm sure this must have been difficult for the pastors I was under, because I have been truly sold out to making them successful - however and with whatever I can do for them - while these other things were occurring, which must have drove them crazy. (These are godly men whom I know are hungry for God's presence as well. They are incredible planners and gifted leaders whom I know the Lord will bless on their journey of walking with God ... and yet, sadly, a separation in our two roads of ministry appeared to be necessary.)

In April of last year, I was let go and my adventure in God has heightened. His Touch Communications was born ... and "I am seeking His Touch upon all that I speak, do or write."

Wonderful, unexpected doors have opened before us. And, in my next post, I will share where Jesus has led me over this past year - and the exciting new year of ministry which is ahead (and yes, I will do my best to post more words of testimony and teaching on my blog to encourage you in your walk in the Lord in the coming year).

City of Phoenix Hearing Update - October 23, 2009

2009-10-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. last night, Prodigal's Home was able to present our case to the City of Phoenix Planning & Zoning Commission with regard to the question of having a worship service and breakfast meal with our partners, CrossRoads UMC, and the objection by neighbors in our doing so.

Speaking in support of us was Bishop Minerva Carcaño of the Desert Southwest Conference UMC, Pastor Dottie Escobedo-Frank of CrossRoads UMC, Mary Jo West (neighbor and former news achor), Smoky Brazelton, Rev. Jan Olav Flatten (Executive Director, Arizona Ecumenical Council), and myself.

There were over 250 people in attendance at the hearing, including pastors and representatives from dozens of local churches.

Representatives from CrossRoads UMC and Prodigal's Home presented their position first, followed by representatives from a neighborhood group. Afterward approximately 30 people were allowed to give one minute comments.

The one thing both groups agreed on was this case will have wide-reaching (state and possibly national) implications. It is also likely the group receiving the unfavorable side of the ruling will appeal. We hope to receive the written ruling soon but were not given a date from the former Arizona Supreme Court Justice acting as the hearing officer.

We will continue to serve in the name of Jesus Christ. We can do no other.

Continue to pray for us. And our neighbors. I will update you as soon as I receive word from the City of Phoenix.

Grace & Peace,

Mike

Pray for this Thursday... October 22nd...

2009-10-19T18:36:00.000-07:00

It has certainly been an active several months for us at Prodigal's Home. The BIG thing going on this week is a "formal interpretation hearing" with the City of Phoenix... more on that in a minute.

The more incredible thing to me is to see how God is moving through so many people and churches in developing pathways of transformation for both the rich and poor.

Last Saturday during our breakfast and worship service we had over 20 CHURCHES represented at our gathering. I was overwhelmed with the love and support from so many in our community of faith. Lutherans, Methodists, Catholics, Baptists, Nazarenes, Presbyterians, Pentecostals, Non-Denominational Christian, United Church in Christ, and more... all coming together to BE the hands and feet of Christ together in a time of worship and a meal.

It was the first time in a long time I was speechless (yes...it could happen ;)

City of Phoenix Hearing

We have been working for several months with city representatives and neighbors regarding the cease and desist order we received in July 2009. After much dialogue it appears the issue will be decided in an upcoming hearing this Thursday (October 22) at the Burton Barr Main Library Auditorium beginning at 6:00 p.m.

We need for you to pray for those speaking on our behalf, for those we work with, for the neighbors, and for CrossRoads UMC, and the Desert Southwest Conference of the United Methodist Church who have worked diligently on providing a voice for us.

We are grateful for their sacrifice on our behalf.

This is a major issue with serious repercussions for all churches in Phoenix. There are MANY watching the outcome of this specific case.

We need your support and we hope you will join us this Thursday at 6pm at the Burton Barr Main Library (1221 N Central Ave, Phoenix AZ 85004).

We now have a gathering of nearly 200 people each Saturday. Your support helps to bring a meal and a pathway of transformation for all who join us.

I am grateful for you.

Grace & Peace,

Mike Ricker, Prodigal's Home

A Cease and Desist Order. Please pray...

2009-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

A Prodigal's Home, the ministry to the homeless in Sunnyslope where I have been blessed to share fellowship and the Word of God with about 150 homeless people who call it their "church" ... has just received notification from the city that we need to shut down.

To learn more, visit the future of a Prodigal's Home.

Thank you for your prayers and your support toward this precious ministry.

New Film Featuring A Prodigal's Home!

2009-07-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

A film crew came by and filmed a Saturday at A Prodigal's Home...

What a blessing! Watch the love of Jesus in action...

The Treasure Hunters of Fountain Hills

2009-07-07T23:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was invited to address a group of college-age students in Fountain Hills. Not long ago, a parent of one of these students had heard about the teaching of the "Adventures in Prayer" Class that I developed... where you can learn to reverse the prayer process (instead of telling God what you want - you wait, listen, and allow the Lord to direct you in your prayers)... and she shared it with a couple of these students.

"Can we hear God too?" they asked.

"Sure," the mother replied... and then, they waited on God.

The students were so thrilled, they asked, "Can we invite our friends ... even if they don't go to church... and would God speak to them like this too?"

"Sure," the mother replied.

What has transpired is an event these students call "treasure hunting." They come together to worship and pray - and then they wait on the presence of the Lord to speak to their hearts about "what" - if anything - they are to do that night.... and Jesus "shows up."

As they write out the list of names, images, information and Scriptures that God places on their heart ... they obey whatever He tells them to do.

The process has led to divine healings and appointments for witnessing right on the street. Now there are thirty students who are coming together to listen to God and obey His commands (and the group is growing quickly!). It's evident: God's Kingdom is on the move through these students!

I spoke and shared my heart in worship and teaching ... and these students stayed enwrapped for three hours. It's clear, they can't get enough of God's love in their lives. They would rather come together to worship God than any other "fun" activity that other normal Youth Groups would be involved with...

It was a night of revival I will never forget.

I'm the Teaching Pastor for Prodigal's Home

2009-05-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

It's official. This Saturday, I will become the official teaching pastor for Prodigal's Home, the outreach and church for the homeless in north Sunnyslope (at SE corner of Central and Northern).

Each morning, we feed about 150 precious people a delicious breakfast along with the Word of God. Feel free to come and join us around 6:30 am for setup, 7:15 for food duty, 8 am breakfast serving, 8:30 service starts, complete with Communion and prayer.

Jesus, in His first sermon, said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord" (Luke 4:18, 19). Come and join us, as we do the same. "Go God!"

Preaching in Fountain Hills, Sunday, May 17

2009-05-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the short notice, but... I have been asked to be the guest speaker for Four Peaks Community Church in Fountain Hills, on Sunday, May 17. So, if you are free and looking for something to do ... and you want to come and share in some worship as family in the Lord ... we will be opening God's Word together and experiencing the presence of God - come and join us at 10 am. I know you will be blessed .. and, whatever you do, be sure to look me up afterwards because I'd love to see you! "Go God!"

Adventures in Prayer Reunion

2009-05-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Special invite to all who have shared in the Adventures in Prayer Classes - tonight, 7 pm, at Chip and Amy Aker's house in Fountain Hills - come join us for a time of worship, prayer and a time of waiting in Jesus' presence. Our Lord bids you to share in His presence, with His people.

"God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord ... eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him." (Ephesians 1:9, 2:9).

A Prodigal's Home: New Outreach to Children on the West Side

2009-05-07T07:17:00.000-07:00

Got this exciting note from A Prodigal's Home Founder Mike Ricker:

I have a lot to learn.

Last Saturday Pastor Dottie Escobedo-Frank of Crossroads United Methodist Church told me a story of a group of extremely poor folks who could use help. She told me of Pastor Vasquez, who has been leading a Bible study in the neighborhood he lives in.

Not your normal Bible study, mind you. But one with a group of 60 children. And in an area of extreme poverty. One day about a year ago, before the Bible study started, a young boy asked Pastor Vasquez if he had anything to eat. It was at this point the pastor realized ... many of these children were hungry. So they began to feed these children, some of whom may not have parents even living in the U.S. because of the current political climate.

As I listen to Dottie's account, I'm wondering what part of South Phoenix these folks live in. Then Dottie tells me. They are 5 miles from where I live in northwest Glendale.

At first I am "shocked" about the story. Then I am saddened about my initial response of believing these folks live somewhere far removed from my neighborhood.

I have a lot to learn.

After our gathering for the homeless on Saturday morning, I decide to go meet Pastor Vasquez. As I drive through the trailer park where he lives, I am stunned by the utter and abject poverty.

I knock on Pastor Vasquez's door, and his wife answers. She summons her son to translate. After a moment, she sends the boy away to find her husband. I sense she knows why I am there. I'm glad SHE does - because I'm still unsure as to why God has led me here.

As I talk with Pastor Vasquez, I learn he has been faithfully leading and caring for the children - nearly 60 of them, in this trailer park for some time now. I ask him what he fed the children that morning. He suddenly becomes silent, and I see pain in his eyes. He tells me they couldn't raise the money. I ask how they normally raise the money to do all this. "Tamales," he says.

He and his family and a few others work throughout the week making tamales (his son works sometimes until 2 a.m.), so they can sell them around the neighborhood - in order to raise a total of $100 - so they can provide a simple meal to the children in his care.

He begins to weep. His wife is crying. The struggle is real.

I grab his shoulder and pray. Then I reach into my pocket and pull out $100.

I let him know we will make sure these 60 children get a meal before Bible study on Saturdays.

I leave numb. Unsure of what has transpired. Angry that I've driven past this place for years and been unaware of what is going on around me.

I have a lot to learn.

Grace & Peace, Mike Ricker

Jesus said, "I was hungry and you gave me something to eat..." Want to help feed the homeless this weekend? Come join us on Saturday morning, at Northern and Central, anytime between 6:30 and 9 am ... you will be blessed, as you will be a blessing.

Friday Night: Adventures in Prayer Reunion!

2009-05-06T22:04:00.001-07:00

This Friday night (5/8/09) there will be an "Adventures in Prayer" Reunion in Fountain Hills. It has been brought to our attention that many of the participants from the past classes are wanting the Lord to renew and kindle afresh the gift of the Spirit inside of them ... so they may be able to hear the Lord's voice fresh and new.

If you have ever attended an "Adventures in Prayer" class, this is your opportunity to come ... worship the Lord ... wait in His presence ... and see what the Lord is going to do in our midst. It's going to be exciting!

The class is at Chip and Amy Aker's house in Fountain Hills, at 7 pm. If you need directions, please send me an email at Tom@HisTouchCommunications.com and I will send them to you right away. We will also be praying and talking about the possibility of "where do we go from here?" - so we can continue to grow and encourage on another as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Come and join us for an evening of basking in the Lord's presence and receiving His love. See you there!

Prodigal's Home: Couple Comes to Jesus and Comes Off Meth

2009-04-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Prodigal's Home was meeting in our temporary home a few weeks back (we are now on the green grass of the Methodist Church on the corner of Northern and Central, every Saturday morning at 7:30 ... and I'm preaching this weekend!) - but, back then, in the parking lot, God spoke to Cody and Cynthia's heart.

"We don't want to live like this anymore," Cody tells Mike Ricker, one of the Founders of the Prodigal's Home. Mike, prays silently as he listens to Cody and Cynthia ... praying for God to be in the center of this conversation. This was a divine moment.

Cody explains a bit of their story and the difficulties they have faced over the years. They've been living on the streets for the last seven years. During this time, they have also dealt with the issue of crystal methamphetamine use. And, on this morning, they were tired ... hopeless... and helpless. "Can you help us get off?" Cody asks.

Mike says, "This is too big for us to handle. We will look into some programs to help ... but we need God's guidance and help." So Mike stands there and holds their hands ... in the parking lot where we just shared breakfast with them ... and invites God into this relationship. Mike acknowledges, "We are not able to do this on our own Jesus. We need you to walk with us on this journey. Amen."

Nine days later, both Cody and Cynthia are in a drug rehab facility. But, here and of itself, was part of the challenge... the men had a 21-day crystal meth subsidized program for men ... but the women's program wasn't subsidized. It was going to cost $840 to get Cynthia into the program. God supplied the need, once again, through the caring friends and Christian family who have volunteered, and are praying for, a Prodigal's Home.

Both Cody and Cynthia have been clean and sober for 70 days now. They are deeply grateful for all those who have stood with them... and we are grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who pulled them out from this miry clay.

There are still many challenges they face. But they know they aren't facing them alone... they know God is with them and for them. They know Prodigal's Home, and our praying friends like you, are there for them too.

This Saturday morning, at Prodigal's Home, some of the homeless will be performing their first drama (of the Prodigal Son's story) at their "church" ... and we can hardly wait to see their expression of love and worship to Jesus.

One thing is for certain: Jesus is on the move in the streets of Phoenix - and God's Kingdom is making a difference and winning back ground from the enemy... one life at a time!

Want to join us? See you this Saturday!

Prodigal's Home has a new home!

2009-01-30T06:11:00.000-08:00

A Prodigal's Home has become a church for the homeless. It has been feeding the homeless on the streets of Sunnyslope for a couple of years now, feeding over 200 people on any given Sunday. I have been blessed to share fellowship with them the past few months.

The location and day of the feeding has changed to Saturdays, at the parking lot of the United Methodist Church (on the southeast corner of Northern and Central). Set up begins early at 6:30 am ... with juice, coffee and donuts shared at 7:30... breakfast at 8am ... and then a service at 8:30 (complete with worship, sermon, communion and hands-on prayer). All the city feeding programs shut down over the weekend, so the food and fellowship are precious to the city's homeless. This change in local has also opened up the opportunity for a bus to help bring in the homeless to attend (although, with the change of local, we are expecting numbers to dip and pick up again in a month or so, as the homeless find us again).

I'll be preaching tomorrow on "I Saw The Light: Maximizing Your Potential" through the story of Moses (curious? Come and check it out...) We'll see you there!

Preparing for the Tres Dias Retreats in March

2009-01-21T09:30:00.001-08:00

What a joy! Not only have I been invited to return to the Men's Retreat with Tres Dias (Thursday, March 19th-Sunday, March 22nd), but I have been asked to serve as a Spiritual Director for the Women's Retreat (Thursday, March 26-Sunday, March 29th).

The practice/preparation/prayer meetings leading up to these events, have already been a tremendous blessing. God is meeting with us - and men and women are spending time before the Lord and drawn by His Spirit into intimacy with God. "Go God!"

If you would like to join us and take part in 64 hours in Prescott, while meeting face to face with Jesus ... contact me at HisTouch@qwest.net and I will be glad to do whatever I can to get you there. You will be blessed!

24 hour prayer and worship for nation and Arizona

2009-01-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

Just got done participating in 24 hours of continuous worship and prayer for nation and Arizona. Daniel Brymer, out of Kansas City Vineyard (check them out, where 24 hour worship has been going on since the start of the year), was the centerpiece worship leader in the "harp and bowl" model of worship.

"Harp and Bowl" is where worship is just one long continuous free flowing prayer... either with the guitar (harp) continuing the music underneath as people pray (bowl), or with fresh words and music flowing new songs and melodies before the Lord. There are swells and reposes that occur naturally during your two hours of worship... and it isn't under the old model of "play the song perfect and be done." Instead, you are keying in on phrases as the Spirit of God highlights them in your heart - and you go back and repeat lines within the verse or chorus and continue to play/pray them to God. The people realize that perfection in music isn't what we are after (although the musicians are accomplished and wonderful) - but the prayer as a corporate body at that moment is what you are nurturing before God. You are just freely loving on the Lord in "the now."

Angie and I went and worshiped and prayed during the Inauguration (while another band was playing, of course). And we were blessed to spend time with Hal and Cheryl Sacks who sponsored the event. Then, later in the evening (4:40 to be exact), we got a call from Hal who told us their 5 o'clock worship team backed out last minute ... could Angie and I fill in?

We rushed down - literally getting out of the car and going directly on the worship platform - where we automatically "entered in" to the flow of the worship at that moment and carried it on. I grabbed a handful of songs (not nearly enough for the 2 hour set) and trusted the Spirit to lead us. What a marvelous time we had! God brought songs back to mind - and to the hands to play them - and worship flowed, drawing us all into the very Throneroom of Heaven. What an honor and a privilege ... and what a blessing it was to share in that worship with those who were there. Let's do it again soon!

"Start the Year Off Right" Conference

2009-01-05T16:26:00.000-08:00

Come and hear what God is saying to the Church of Arizona - and across the nation - as we join Hal and Cheryl Sacks for the 7th Annual "Start the Year Off Right" Conference. Special guests Dutch Sheets and Chuck Pierce will inspire and challenge you with the Word of God, and what God has been sharing prophetically in prayer meetings across the country.

The conference is open to all free of charge (a special offering will be taken to cover the conference costs) and will be located at City of Grace, 655 E. University Drive in Mesa - Friday, January 16th from 7-9:30 and Saturday, 8:30 am-12:30 pm.

To learn more, select the link on Hal and Cheryl's names in the column on the right ... and, be blessed. I hope to see you there!

Karla is in glory... please pray for Jack and family

2008-12-30T21:13:00.000-08:00

It happened. My precious sister in Jesus, Karla Tesch, has gone home to be with Jesus. Today, she is enwrapped in arms and the glorious splendor of our Lord - without any pain... without any tears... and entering into the salvation that is so wondrously hers (and ours) - where she has begun to receive the fullness of an inheritance that will never fade away - seeing Jesus face to face... and, one day, to return with Him at a time of resurrection where her body will put on immortality, and she will have a new body, and we shall stand together in worship of our Lord at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

Resurrection. Our hope as Christians.

And yet, I can hear the naysayers who would come up to me and say, "Tom, didn't you fail? Couldn't you have done something? I thought you believe in divine healing?"

The answer is, "I do."

"Did I fail?" Well, when you consider that our prayers - and our time of conversation and intercession - is with the One who is the Resurrection and the Life... I would say, "The problem is not on God's end of this praying process. He has the power. He has the desire. He has the love and compassion for each one... the problem is more centered upon my inability to hear, not His ability to heal."

I can't help but wish that I knew more about hearing the voice of God and obeying the unction of the Spirit... and can't help but think that if there was some way, I could have heard on Karla's behalf, she would be better today. "Jesus, just speak the word," was my prayer ... and I waited on that word and listened so eagerly for it... and yet didn't receive the unction of that voice of God's Spirit to pass on.

At the same time, it should be noted, that Scripture tells us there is an appointed time for all of us - and that God has numbered our days. I submit to God's sovereignty - and, when I don't hear a word of deliverance for someone in prayer, usually what I receive are words of comfort and encouragement in the midst of the battle. I believe there is also a Scriptural basis that we are to learn through our trials and draw nearer to the heart of God for His comfort through them - and this, too, is a way in which God can be glorified.

My premise about divine healing is that we are quick to run away from it and say, "God doesn't do that anymore," simply because it hasn't been our previous experience. What I have discovered is - as I practice the art of listening prayer and share it with others - God has a greater window for divine intervention ... and HE DOES intervene and heal when we place ourselves in that position of faith, hope and trusting in God's tremendous love for us.

So, was the cancer too hard for God to heal? The answer to that is most definitely, "No." I have seen God heal people of cancer, just as vicious and just as thorough as the attack Karla was suffering. Which is what makes this conviction of praying for healing so very frustrating sometimes... "Lord, if you did it for this one, why not heal this other person here... please?" "I know You can do it."

But that brings us back to what prayer is all about... I don't order God around. He is the Master. All I am doing is waiting upon Him to speak the "word," and then I act upon that - and I speak that.... for HE has the power to heal, not me.

The truth is: I don't know all the reasons for why God doesn't heal today... all I know is that if we don't pray with faith, believing, and waiting upon Him in His presence - listening and waiting in obedience to whatever unction He may say or give us - then no one can be healed.

And the greater truth is: Karla is healed today. She is on the road toward experiencing salvation ("sozo" in the Greek) which means "wholeness" ... total healing of body, soul and spirit. All I was trying to do - and all that each of us was trying to do in praying for Karla - was simply this... to get a touch of her inheritance in Eternity through prayer, and give her a glimpse of it here on this side of Heaven.

Either way... God gets all the glory. Either way... Karla is healed.

Of course, while she is in a place of total peace and joy right now ... it is the hearts of those of us that she left behind - and the loss that we feel and suffer from - that so desperately needs the Lord's touch today. Please join me in remembering Jack and the Tesch family in your prayers.

"Karla, we miss you... but with the hope of Resurrection in our hearts, we remind ourselves that we will see you in the morning." (Read Psalm 30:5b)

"A Prodigal's Home" needs a new home...

2008-12-29T11:15:00.001-08:00

"A Prodigal's Home" began as an outreach of a handful of Christian families who wanted to touch their community, in a real and tangible way, with the love of Christ. Two years ago - when Christmas was on a Sunday morning, this bold group of believers went into a park in Sunnyslope and began handing out lunches to anyone who would come.

That outreach has grown to a ministry that today is feeding around 230 people every week, in the parking lot of El Gran' Taco on 7th Ave and Hatcher. A worship service follows the meal - and the Word of God and Communion is shared. Mike Ricker and Doug Brendel have done a marvelous job of joining hands with those Christian individuals (from all denominations and backgrounds) who want to help, with those who have the need.

Now they have been asked to find a new place to care for the needy - and they urgently need our prayers. A church on 7th Ave and Hatcher has opened their parking lot on Saturdays (they were feeding on Sundays) as a temporary ministry site. Beginning this Saturday, January 3rd, they will begin ministry there ... but a new site needs to be found soon.

I will be speaking on Saturday, January 17 and 31, and February 7th. Set up begins at 6:30am - if you want to help - with the serving of the food beginning at 7:30am... service at 8:30am.

Karla Tesch needs YOUR prayer...

2008-12-29T11:05:00.000-08:00

Jack and Karla Tesch have been such precious friends and prayer partners for Angie and me over the years. Their home group and counseling ministry have touched the lives of so many with spiritual renewal and hope ... and, for all these many years, they have been used by God with Harvest International to encourage and equip pastors and churches throughout Haiti and Africa...

But then, just in the Spring of this year, Jack and Karla were hit with the difficult news that Karla has breast cancer. Surgeries ensued and they thought they had gotten it all - but, sadly, just a month or so ago, traces of the cancer were found in Karla's liver.

Today, she lies weakened in the hospital. Karla's body showing signs of pneumonia... and in need of a touch from God. Please, won't you join me in prayer for Karla today?...

"Lord, we bring before you Karla - Your precious daughter... Your precious servant... and we ask for Your mercy and for Your love to enfold her... and for Your presence to come upon her and to bring her strength. Be her strength, O' God ... and, O' God, be her healing, YHWH Rapha, we pray... for Your glory, for Your honor, and in Your name we ask it. Amen."

New Year's Morning Mountaintop Prayer for AZ

2008-12-26T19:54:00.000-08:00

January 1, 2009 will mark the 10th Anniversary in which Arizona Call to Prayer annually calls for New Year's morning mountaintop Prayer to usher in the year! Along with some amazing answers to prayer in past New Year's events, it is most importantly a time of entering the new year by reaching up to God and honoring Him in this special way.

Mountaintop Prayer is a time of "on your own" prayer. It is many small and large gatherings of friends and family ushering in the New Year at sunrise on New Years Day on their favorite mountaintop or high place (for those in colder climates). This year the call is also to locations on either side of the Mexico-USA border to gather.

In Phoenix, Arizona, sunrise on New Year's morning is 7:33am. We always recommend that those going to their local mountaintops or high places scout ahead to know what may be involved on a New Year's morning. On New Year's morning plan to get positioned at least a half hour prior to sunrise to have a personal time with the Lord. Then, just before sunrise everyone gathers, usually the shofar is blown, and shouts of joy to the Lord go up. Often communion is shared. Then there is a time of intercession over the city and region for the next half hour or so. Participants may then go to breakfast together to recount their "mountaintop experience."

To receive an email update, sign up for the BridgeBuilders E-list by going to: http://www.bridgebuilders.net/index.cfm/PageID/15/index.html.

Or, you can contact: Guy Chadwick at BridgeBuilders Prayer Network, at
guy@arizonacalltoprayer.net

BridgeBuilders is led by Hal & Cheryl Sacks. I have been blessed to know Hal and Cheryl for several years now - and their efforts of reaching across denominational lines to draw men and women together to help bring city and statewide transformation has been an inspiration to prayer networks across the country. Learn more by visiting www.BridgeBuilders.net

Meet Dr. David Timms...

2008-12-18T07:03:00.000-08:00

Let me introduce you to David Timms, a professor at Hope International University and a dear friend of mine...

If you are looking for a last minute Christmas gift - or a great book to read - may I recommend "Living the Lord's Prayer." It is the first time, in a long time, that I have read a Bible study book that I didn't want to put down. David's insight in the Scripture is tremendous, and his personable style and illustrations kept me thirsting for more - and, with every chapter, I found myself spiritually challenged and wanting to see change in my life. Check it out: "Living the Lord's Prayer"

David shares an "In Hope" article of personal thoughts and spiritual musings every couple of weeks or so, and it's totally free (a bargain for such priceless teaching and inspiring words). You can find an archive of his articles, and sign up for his insight to come to your email (scroll to the bottom of the page) at http://www.hiu.edu/inhope/

This precious man of God has invested so much in me, personally - and I will be forever grateful to God for him.

Follow the Star

2008-12-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday (December 12-14th) will be one of the most precious Christmas traditions I have ever been a part of ...

On the grounds of Chaparral Christian Church (Shea and 64th Street), from 6:30-8pm, you will be transported to the land of Israel to experience your very own pilgrimage to Bethlehem.

Come share "Follow the Star" with us - and ask if I could be your guide!

Adventures in Prayer

2008-12-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Last night, we came to the close of another class in Fountain Hills. It was 10 weeks ago, a dozen saints began an adventure in learning how to listen to God and minister the life of the Kingdom of God to the world around them. For many, they didn't want the class to end.

Just think of the implications of what God is doing in our midst...

Jesus said that He didn't do anything unless He saw His Father doing it - or say anything unless He heard His Father say it (see John 4:34, 5:30, 6:38, 8:26, 9:4, 10:37-38, 12:49-50, 14:31, 15:10 and 17:4). Now there is another class of believers committed to walking with our Heavenly Father the same way (This was class number 4!).

Soon, we will be baptizing Hans ("Go God!"). His life has been transformed by the Word of God, and the Spirit of God, over the past several weeks. (I will be sure to post the event on this blogspot so you can be there too.)

A special thank you to Chip Aker for inviting me - and a special thank you to all who attended the class and allowed me to become a precious part of your lives. Angie and I love you so much...

By the end of the class, those who were attending were receiving personal scriptures and pictures from God's heart FOR ME. Wow! This is truly "equipping the saints" (see Ephesians 4:11-16.) What a joy this entire experience has been!

Remember graduating class: Two critical keys to walking in the ways of God's Spirit are humility (James 4:5,6 and 1 Peter 5:5b) and walking in God's love (1 Corinthians 13). It's not about you... it's about Jesus loving on those around you.

Would you like to attend an "Adventures in Prayer" class in the future? (And yes, you can attend again and again, if you wish ... isn't it fun walking with Jesus?) I am already receiving requests to start another session in the month of January - both in Fountain Hills and a possible second class in North Phoenix. Check this site regularly for updates.

Tres Dias Weekend: Choose Life!

2008-12-01T06:08:00.000-08:00

What an honor and a privilege it was to join in fellowship with the men of Tres Dias Arizona, and a weekend of "communing with Jesus."

Serving as the worship leader for the weekend in October was a humbling and powerful experience. Jesus' presence was so vivid and alive with us - changing and melting the hearts of the men with His love. I just worshiped alongside at the feet of our Lord. What an honor to watch God interact with these men - for most of the pilgrims (first timers), they had never experienced intimate worship like this... truly lifechanging. (Thank you to Jim Langdal, Bill Baaden and Mark Krause for trusting me to "go with the flow" of the Spirit, and allowing the Lord to minister as He willed. What a blessing!)

I was also blessed to serve as one of the Spiritual Directors (sharing the talk on the Holy Spirit and some of the meditations).

One brother (arms like tree branches!), came and hugged me off the ground. He said, "During opening night, I looked at you and said, 'That guy is a phony. His walk with God can't possibly be real ... he seems too happy.' Then," he said, "You began to talk and God's presence suddenly surrounded me and caught me by surprise. I realized you have a powerful walk with God ... and I need what you got!"

Another brother came up to me - tears streaming down his face - pounding on my chest he said, "You did this to me! From the moment you said the word 'Father' - and you shared about your relationship with your Heavenly Father and what He means to you - I've been weeping. Now God's telling me that He wants that kind of relationship with me. I'm never going to be the same."

What a joy! Now I've been invited to serve again as a Spiritual Director, March 26-29, 2009, this time for the Women's Retreat entitled, "Walk With Me." I can't wait to see what Jesus is going to share with us then!

Want to learn more? Want to experience a weekend of being in the presence of Christ? Check it out at: http://www.tdcaz.org/

Prodigal's Home in Sunnyslope

2008-11-30T15:38:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was blessed to be contacted by my old friend, Doug Brendel. He is a part of helping to feed around 250 homeless people in "the Slope" - near 7th Ave and Hatcher - every Sunday. From 7:30 to 8 am, they provide donuts, juice and coffee... then at 8:05, warm egg breakfast burritos... then, at 8:30, around 70 people stick around for a church service, under the tents of the "El Grande Taco." For pictures, check out: http://dougbrendel.com/Prodigals/index.html

The entire outreach is put together by caring Christians from various churches and backgrounds. They are truly being the hands of Jesus to our inner city (other feeding ministries are closed on Saturdays and Sundays - so for many this is the only meal they get to eat all weekend.)

For three weeks, I was blessed to share the presence of Christ with these precious men and women of Sunnyslope. I shared messages on "The Fingerprints of God" (God seen in Creation), "The Naked Truth About Adam and Eve" (the voices of temptation) and "Jesus, Our Superman." Afterward, we shared Communion together and I had the privilege of laying my hands upon and praying for each person there. One lady was experiencing internal bleeding and the Lord healed her. Another was suffering from tumors, and the Lord removed them.

Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor - to proclaim release to the captives, and recover of sight to the blind, to set free the downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord" (Luke 4:18-19).

Moon Valley Men's Breakfast

2008-11-13T18:44:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was invited by Jeff Merry, President of Worship AZ, to come and speak to the men at Moon Valley Bible Church. Right now there is a genuine hunger in this congregation to learn how to listen to God's voice - and, when challenged by his pastor to find someone who understands "listening prayer," Jeff felt led to ask me.

What a privilege to share this October morning with these men. You can listen to the message below. (It answers questions about "do we have the right to hear God's voice?" "What gets in the way from hearing God's voice?" It also shares my testimony about how the Lord healed me.)

The Music

The Lesson

TomsLessonMoonValley.mp3

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