Congratulations Flyers and Flyer Fans

Although the Flyers fell short in their effort to overcome the #2 seed, St. Thomas Academy, they played their hearts out and made us Flyer fans proud! (I will make no comment regarding the zebra's on the floor) :)
(Rachel Loukinen & Andrew Thompson)


I am also thrilled with the number of Little Falls fans that turned out. We can be proud of the community support demonstrated for all the teams that have gone on to participate at the state level. It's like a family reunion as past alum from around the state converge together with Little Falls citizens to cheer on the purple.

Chase the Lion

New Series coming to Living Hope!

Starting Sunday, March 30, (Which is the day Living Hope Little Falls will go to two services) we will begin the series, "Chase the Lion". This series is based upon a little known story in the Bible. It is found in 2 Samuel 23:20-21.

Mark Batterson, pastor of National Community Church wrote a book based on this story. His book is entitled, "In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day". We have ordered some books that will be for sale at church this coming week. Mark and his wife grew up in Naperville, Illinois, attending the church were I did my ministry internship.

Some of the topics we will be looking at are:Defying Odds, Fear Factor, Overcoming Adversity, Embracing Uncertainty, Taking Risks, Seizing Opportunity and Looking Foolish.

We will be encouraging our Life Groups to use this series for April & May.

"WHAT IF THE LIFE YOU REALLY WANT, AND THE FUTURE GOD WANTS FOR YOU, IS HIDING RIGHT NOW IN YOUR BIGGEST PROBLEM, YOUR WORST FAILURE...YOUR GREATEST FEAR?"

Do You Believe in Miracles?

(Photos by Paul Middlestaedt)

On Wednesday night the Little Falls Flyers Boys Basketball team overcame the odds and beat St. Cloud Apollo on a last second tip in by Dan Kornbaum. The Flyers are now on their way to the Minnesota state tournament.

It was an incredible team effort that allowed the Flyers to win this game.

Congratulations to members of Living Hope, Ron & Dan Kornbaum and Pastor Bobby (Assistant Coach). We are so proud of your efforts.

Last night Dan and another player, Ethan, were over to our house to play video games with my son Mark. Mark decided to do something pretty funny. He had Dan autograph his picture that was on the cover of the St. Cloud Times, and Ethan his, which appeared in the sports section.

Congratulations Flyers!

Backstrom Brothers

Don't miss this Sunday at Living Hope!

This weeks topic in our "Nothing's Too Hard for God" series is "No loss is too difficult". I have invited a family from my hometown of Farmington to share their incredible story. A few years ago, three brothers were traveling home when they were struck by a young man who had been drinking, driving too fast and talking on a cell phone. Two of the Backstrom brothers died at the scene. The third one was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Their mom, dad and two brothers will be sharing their story of faith on Sunday, 9:30 at Rice and 10:30 at Little Falls. I strongly encourage you to invite your friends.

To read more about their story go to www.backstrombrothers.com

Tony Dungy

I just finished reading "Quiet Strength" by Tony Dungy. Wow, am I inspired. This is a must read book.

I first began my admiration for Tony when he was in Minnesota, working as an assistant coach for the Vikings. I loved the fact that he was great at what he did, but was even better at who he is. He has an inspiring faith in Jesus Christ.

One year ago, he led the Indianapolis Colts to victory in Super Bowl XLI, making history as the first African American coach to win the big game.

In the book, Tony reveals to the reader his secret for why he has been successful. He shares his principles, and priorities that have kept him on the right path despite incredible personal and professional heart ache.

Tony really challenged me regarding the things in life that really matter and in regards to leading others with a "quiet strength".

Pick it up, you won't be disappointed.

Are You Still Dreaming?

Monday through Wednesday of this week I am in St. Louis Park for our Mn District School of Ministry. As a sectional presbyter, we spend time interviewing individuals who are desiring to become Assembly of God Minister's. As the candidates were at the altar praying and the presbyters were laying hands on them, interceding for them and their ministries, my mind wondered back in time. 21 years ago, I found myself in the same place; on the verge of being credentialed with all my dreams of ministry before me.

I had such expectancy as a 22 year old. I recall the anticipation, wondering where God would send me and what He would accomplish through my ministry.

Today I asked myself, "Do you have the same anticipation today?" "Are you still dreaming like you were as a young man on the verge of ministry?"

I am happy to say that I can answer both of those questions with a big yes! I do not feel tired of ministry. I am refreshed by what I do. I actually feel like I'm just starting out. There are so many more things that God is calling me to do. I desperately want to fulfill His plan for my life. Anything less is not acceptable.

Whatever God has called you to do, I want to encourage you to not grow weary. Spend time with God so you have something to give to others.

The Power of a Song

Last night I attended the Little Falls Community High School band and choir concert. My son Mark plays saxophone and my wife Darla was accompanying the choir on the piano. During the night I had two surprises, one from Mark and one from the Choir. Where Mark was sitting, I could only see the top half of his face and his hands. At one portion of a song I could hear a saxophone solo. I could see Mark's hands moving and had to do a double take. He hadn't told us that he would have a solo. He did a great job.

The choir shocked me when they began to sing a song called "O Sifuni Mungo". In a moments time I was transported in my mind to 1990, Calvary Assembly of God in Stillwater, MN. I was Youth Pastor there, and on New Years Eve my wife and I, along with a couple of youth coaches, decided to perform this song for our youth group. I still don't know how they talked me into this. We dressed in African attire and put together some corny choreography. We actually have it on video tape. I am trying to decide when to show this to my kids. I guarantee they will have a great laugh at my expense!

I know that you have experienced something similar to this. Out of the blue, you hear a song and your mind leaps back to a significant time in your life. Your first date, your wedding, a special time with God....That's the power of a song. A love song by Chicago, a favorite hymn, or the music of your favorite performer; the Imperials, White Heart, Mylon LeFevre. Sorry, I was having a sentimental moment.

If you are a musician, use your talent for the Lord and play or sing, sing sing. You are blessing people with significant moments.