Frankly Speaking
 I ran across this 'Word from Pastor Frank' that I wrote back in 2013. I thought it was worth sharing again. Pastor Frank.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Most of us cannot imagine what it would be like to go through life missing a limb. I remember a time, during my reckless boyhood, of having to wear a cast on my right hand. I was greatly limited in what I could do. Simple tasks such as opening a can or jar, brushing my teeth, or getting dressed became very  challenging for me.  Zach Hodskins, a high school student from Alpharetta, Ga., was born without the lower half of his left arm because of a birth defect. But Zach never let his disability hold him back from doing whatever he wanted. His love for basketball drove him to work through his disability.  He did more than just compete. He excelled at the sport. Not only has Hodskins become a star basketball player, which would be impressive in and of itself, he was offered a spot on the University of Florida basketball team. In his own words, "When I'm out on the court, I forget that my arm isn't there and just play ball. Passion and love for the sport helps me overcome all obstacles. To this day I haven't come across anything I can't do." What an inspiration for all of us who seem to make endless excuses for not doing what we were called to do. Do you have a passion and love for serving Christ? If we truly have a passion for Christ and the ones that He has called us to serve, then we should be able to lay aside anything that stands in our way as well. Always be reminded that your strength comes from the One who made you the way you are, and it is through Him that you can do all things. 
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12: 1,2
 
                                                                                              Pastor Frank Dodson
                                                                                                                

Frankly Speaking
"Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!" John 4:35
Ruby and I just returned from a much needed visit/mini vacation in Southern California. When flying, I always try to snatch a window seat so that I can study the ground below. Of course the clouds don't always allow this, but last Thursday was a clear afternoon as we flew in on our connecting flight from Houston and I had a perfect view. One of the things that I could not help but notice were all the colorful cotton modules scattered across the landscape. In South Texas the majority of the fields are no longer white for harvest. The harvesters have picked and rolled the cotton into big round modules, wrapping them in a polyethylene film - some yellow and some pink. These modules, resembling giant easter eggs, are then grouped into fours and are left laying in the bare fields. Next they will be transported to the cotton gin where the seeds, burrs, and other foreign matter will be removed. The 'cleaned' cotton will be compressed, baled and then sent out to be used in creating products that we use every day. The cotton industry reminds me of what the function of the church should be like. We have fields full of people everywhere around us. Everyone of them is valuable to God so He sends the harvesters out to collect and bring in these precious souls to the church. Once in the church they are to be first loved, and then taught and discipled. The church should be a safe place where the lost, the broken, and the weary find rest and restoration. It should be a place where they learn to shed all the foreign matter that has held them back from becoming all they were made to be. Yes, God has a purpose for all of His creation and He has sent us, His chosen ones, out into the fields to spread the 'good news' of His plan. Jesus told His followers that the fields were "white for harvest" and He's telling us the same today. Are you ready for the harvest church?
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Gal. 6:9
                                                                                       ​Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
It is back-to-school time. The new school year begins for many of our children this week. Almost without exception, there will be change; new teachers, new curriculum, and new friends. For many this may even mean there will be a new school or campus waiting for them. Change, although scary and sometimes painful, is good. Change is what gets us out of our comfort zone and causes us to move forward. Without change there would be no new growth in our lives and we would become stagnant. But, it is human nature to resist change in order to keep things status quo and familiar. Because of this, our Heavenly Father sometimes must work overtime to get us out of our comfort zone so that we may grow and prosper spiritually. His desire is for us to become seasoned and mature, functioning in the capacity that we were created for. We may never realize all that God has planned for our lives, but we could start by allowing Him to grow us through change. We do have a choice-we can either go forward kicking and screaming or peacefully submit to His will. Learning to trust Him in all things is the key to being at peace through times of change. If you are experiencing anxiety or stress due to changes in your life, give it to God. Tell Him you trust Him and allow His peace, "which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
 
"God wants us to grow up, to know the whole truth and tell it in love--like Christ in everything. We take our lead from Christ, who is the source of everything we do." Ephesians 4:15 MSG 
                                                                                    ​Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
 
Are you happy with your life? Don't answer too quickly - stop and ponder that question for a moment and then be honest with yourself as you answer. If your answer was no, you are not alone - a recent Harris poll revealed that only one in three Americans admitted to being very happy. That means that roughly two-thirds of the rest us are either unhappy or indifferent. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.”  So, what gives? We are free and live in a nation of plenty, with a standard of living that is unsurpassed in world history, and still aren't happy. Growing up, I remember one of my Mom's favorite sayings was, "Money won't buy you happiness." She was right. So then, what is it that makes us happy? I believe that true happiness starts with thankfulness. We must learn to be thankful for what we have and where we are at. As Christians, even more so, we should always look for the good in our lives, thanking God for all that He has blessed us with. Whether you believe it or not, you have a lot to be thankful for. You don't have to look to far to see someone less fortunate than yourself. Think of all that you have to be thankful for and stop dwelling on the situations or people that bring you down. I challenge you to begin and end your day in thanksgiving to the Lord. This simple act of worship will turn your sadness into joy - I guarantee it.
 
"You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever." Psalm 30:11,12 
                                                                                    ​Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
There are many reasons to worship God. Rick Pino, a singer, song writer, and worship coach likes to highlight three. First and foremost, God is WORTHY of our praise and worship. Worship is the only appropriate response to our Creator. Listen to the song of the Psalmist, "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well." Ps 139:14 He goes on to say that God is thinking of us every single moment of the day and He cherishes us constantly in every one of those thoughts! Worship magnifies the Lord. Oh, magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together. Ps 34:3 To magnify something, you have to focus on that object. When you do that everything else becomes pale by comparison. The things that caused you anxiety, worry, or fear begin to fade away. Secondly, worship brings us into agreement with God - what's important to Him becomes important to us. What makes Him weep, make us weep. What brings Him joy, brings us joy. His desires become our desires. As our heart comes into agreement with Him, our perspective of things begin to change and we begin to see things with a Godly perspective. A Godly perspective enables us to realize who we are and what we were created to do. It is then that the impossible becomes possible and we begin to have hope where hopelessness once reigned. Lastly, our worship actually enthrones God. As we worship, He is enthroned over our lives, our family, our city, our state and so on. To enthrone is to set over, to seat in a place associated with a position of authority. But wait a minute, isn't God already seated in a place of authority? Isn't He Lord over all? Yes, there is no argument to that, but enthrone is a verb, an act. When you enthrone a King, you bow before him and submit to his kingship. You say- from this day forward you are our king- we will respect you and honor you. Here's the result, when we enthrone God we are dethroning another ruler. As we, the Ecclesia, the chosen ones of God, enthrone God and establish His kingdom on Earth, the kingdom of satan is being toppled!
 
But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel. Psalm 22:3

                                                                                Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
The only difference between a rut and a grave is their dimensions. Ellen Glasgow
Have you ever been stuck in a rut? Sure, we've all got our car or truck stuck and the more we hit the gas the deeper we got. But, I'm not talking about your car being stuck in mud, I'm talking about a spiritual rut. This is a place where you have been doing the same old thing, over and over but never seem to get anywhere.  It may be a job, method, or activity, but whatever it is, it is slowly sucking the life out of you. Hopelessness, apathy, and even depression begin to set in. This has become the norm for a vast majority in our society today. The result of this is increased alcohol and substance abuse. These methods of dealing with the problem never fix anything, but only make it worse. So, how do you get out of a rut? Well, you either need a tow or a push. Many times we must reach up out of this 'shallow grave' and grab the hand of the One who is able to pull us out. Jesus is always there to help us. Many times it is Him who gives us the push we need to get enough traction to get moving. Most of the time this help comes in the form of people, those who He sends to assist us. Never be embarrassed or too proud to ask for help, no one ever gets stuck intentionally, it just happens. If this is you today call out to Jesus. Help is already on the way.
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
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                                                                                              Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. Gal 5:1
 
Next Thursday we Americans will celebrate Independence Day. Most countries on this planet have a similar day, a national holiday in which they celebrate their independence as well. For them it is usually the day in history when they won a significant battle, were liberated from tyrannical oppressor, or held their first free election. In France for example, July 14 commemorates the storming of Bastille, a prison in Paris, which initiated the French Revolution in 1789. For us, the fourth of July reminds us of the day that brave delegates of the young Continental Congress met and adopted the Declaration of Independence-a document that formally stated the colonies' justification to be free from British rule. Of course that resolution didn't settle well with the Brits, they resisted and two wars had to be fought to settle the matter. The difference is this; most other countries celebrate the day their independence was won, we celebrate the day ours was declared. For there to be a victory, there must first be a declaration made to state a cause. This is also true for individuals as well. Whenever we make a declaration for our freedom, regardless of what that is, know that it will not come without a fight. Freedom never comes easy. The one who holds another in bondage never lets go without a struggle. Whether your struggle is against an addiction, a besetting sin, an illness, or any other thing that holds you captive know that there is victory in Christ. Start with a declaration; declare what it is you desire regardless of how impossible the situation looks. Believe for victory and know that the battle is no longer yours but the Lords.

 "Don't be afraid or distressed by this great horde; for the battle is not yours, but God's." 2Ch 20:15b
                                                                                                              Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
Much is being said today about freedom; freedom to marry whomever we want-regardless of gender, freedom to exercise our "reproductive rights," freedom to choose to end our own life, freedom to practice our own religion, and the list goes on. Each camp believes that achieving their "right" is what brings them freedom, but Jesus tells us otherwise; "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32. True freedom comes from knowing the truth, not some watered-down half-truth devised by man to promote an agenda or to legitimize a sin. Truth comes from God's word. Knowing and obeying His commandments is the truth that will truly set men free. Many believed that their new found freedom, handed down by the Supreme Court's redefinition of the sacrament of marriage a few years ago, would guarantee them freedom. It's proven to be quite the opposite. They are now bound in a false belief that man has the power to override God's laws and precepts. Pray for those who have made such laws and for those who have been deceived by such arrogant acts. Instead of pointing the finger and condemning them try praying for them to know the truth and to truly be set free.
 
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."  John 3:17
 
"Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." John 8:36
                                                                                        Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
Near the end of every man's life there will come that moment when he must ponder all of his achievements. He will take inventory of all his possessions and accomplishments and wonder whether he had used his God-given resources wisely. God has a calling on every man's life and each man is given three resources to achieve that calling - time, treasure, and talents. How we use and manage these resources will determine the amount of satisfaction and peace we have at the end of our days on this planet. Of all the callings, there is no greater call on a man's life than to be a father. This charge encompasses much more than just siring, it is a lifelong calling. The Apostle Paul instructs men to "bring your children up in the training and admonition of the Lord." Eph 6:4. This requires a large investment into their lives, an investment of time. Men, we will be held accountable for how seriously we take this command. Training, as well as discipline, is a hands-on activity, not something to be delegated (or abdicated) to our wives, the schools, or our local church. Fathers are called to lead and set an example for their children to follow. Being a father requires commitment and sacrifice, but the rewards are well worth it. Watching our children grow into godly men and women and enjoying fellowship with them brings joy and accomplishment to our lives. But the greatest reward comes at the end of our lives when our Father in heaven says to us," Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over what I have given you" Matt 25:21. Keep up the good work and happy Father's Day men!
When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son, "I am about to go the way of all the earth," he said. "So be strong, act like a man, and observe what the LORD your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go. 1Kings 2:1-3
                                                                         Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
"And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." Acts 2:2-4

This event, described in the second chapter of Acts, is known as the day of Pentecost. This was the day that God chose to pour out His Spirit on man, just as Jesus had promised. The Jews had been celebrating this feast for over 1400 years. Pentecost (literally, 50th) came 50 days after Passover. This was believed to be the day when God revealed His law to Moses on Mt. Sanai - the day that God firmly established Israel as His holy people through His covenant with them. Pentecost, or Shavuot as the Jews called it, was one of the three major feasts in which the entire Jewish populace made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.  It was no accident that God chose this day to send His Spirit - He knew what he was doing. "And dwelling at Jerusalem there were Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven." Acts 2:5 After being empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter stood up, preached, and gave an altar call. The 3000 that were saved that day would return to their homeland with a salvation message that was radical; salvation was no longer limited just to the Jews but to "all men." It was a liberating message of love and hope that replaced an endless list of laws. Word would spread throughout the world of a Savior named Jesus, who came and set men free. Amazingly, Pentecost was also known as "The Feast of Harvest". It was a day that the Jews gave thanks to the Lord for the "latter grains" harvest. Let us today give thanks for the plentiful harvest that God has promised; not a harvest of grains, but one of souls.

"Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!" John 4:35
                                                                                 Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
Over the last few weeks I have been talking about several different mindsets that not only influence our perception of the world around us but also control how we react to various situations or events in our lives. The most important consequence of our mindset is how it shapes our relationship with God. Someone with a 'Barbaric Mindset' is controlled by fear. They tend to see God as a mean old man just waiting to squash them like a bug when they mess up.  This type of mindset will drive a person to try to earn favor with God through performance. People with this mindset tend to be very religious or legalistic. Another mindset is the 'Greek Mindset'. People who adopt this frame of mind usually struggle with faith. They have a hard time accepting things they don't understand - constantly trying to reason things out and have an explanation for everything. They seldom recognize the miracles and wonders of God all around them. This form of thinking is rooted in pride which seeks to exalt itself rather than God. The third perspective that I presented was the 'Hebrew Mindset.' BUT GOD! Four thousand years ago our loving Father in heaven, knowing that man could never grasp Him on his own, introduced a flawless mindset that would draw man to Him and would fulfill all his longings and desires. It would be a mindset based on trust and faith. He started by making a covenant with a man named Abraham and over the next 2000 years He shaped the thinking and culture of this man's offspring to come into line with His truth. He gave them a revelation of who He was, speaking directly to prophets who would write it down, so that they would have a manual that would teach, instruct and guide them through life. He gave them answers to all their questions, from where they originated to what their future would hold. He also told them of a Messiah who would come to set them free from sin and death. We know this Messiah as Jesus Christ. When a person adopts this flawless mindset he is able to draw near to his heavenly Father trust Him in all things. Trust me, peace will come with the knowledge that Abba Father loves you unconditionally and has the best for you.

...let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think… Rom 12:2
                                                                                            Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
Tomorrow is Memorial Day, a day set aside to remember those who died while in military service, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. In other words, we memorialize the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  We should all spend time remembering those who lost their lives and could not come home and experience the luxury and freedom that we enjoy today. The wearing of a single red poppy became a Memorial Day tradition after the Great War. In the war-torn battlefields of Europe, the red poppy was one of the first plants to reappear. Its seeds scattered in the wind and sat dormant in the ground, only germinating when the ground was disturbed—as it was by the brutal fighting of World War 1. Although the red poppies remind us of loss of life, they also symbolize new life and assure us that the sacrifices were not in vain.
 
Oh! you who sleep in Flanders Fields,
Sleep sweet – to rise anew!
We caught the torch you threw
And holding high, we keep the Faith
With All who died.

We cherish, too, the poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led;
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies,
But lends a lustre to the red
Of the flower that blooms above the dead
In Flanders Fields.

And now the Torch and Poppy Red
We wear in honor of our dead.
Fear not that ye have died for naught;
We’ll teach the lesson that ye wrought
In Flanders Fields.

“We Shall Keep the Faith” by Moina Michael, November 1918

                                                                                   Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking

Ever heard of a red herring? Webster's defines the term as something unimportant that is used to stop people from noticing or thinking about something important. This practice has been around since the beginning of time and is widely used by governments, politicians, corporations, or anyone seeking to distract. Our enemy, the devil, likes to get us distracted. When we are distracted we have a hard time hearing what God is saying to us. Many in the church buy into his game and tend to get caught up in petty arguments or doctrinal disputes and miss the important battles under our noses that need our attention. These distractions don't necessarily have to be bad things either. Oswald Chambers once said that the good is always the biggest enemy of the best. Our country is in dire straits and, whether she knows it or not, desperately needs the church to get focused and do what it was designed by Christ to do- take back what the enemy has stolen. God chose us for a time such as this and we need to stay focused and "in the game." Don't waste your time and energy on unproductive works that don't produce life, but instead spend time alone with your heavenly Father and listen for His marching orders. He will certainly speak if you are listening.
 
Overcome every form of evil as a victorious soldier of Jesus the Anointed One. For every soldier called to active duty must divorce himself from the distractions of this world so that he may fully satisfy the one who chose him. 2Timothy 2:4 TPT
 
Have them stop devoting their attention to myths and never-ending genealogies; these divert people to speculating instead of doing God's work, which requires trust. 1Timothy 1:4 CJB
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                                                                                      Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

Since 1914, on the second Sunday in May, we Americans honor our Mothers. Motherhood is undoubtably the highest calling on a woman's life. God chose the woman to bring all mankind, with the exception of Adam, into this world. He supplied her with the gifts and skills to nurture, protect, and love us all, including His only Son- Jesus our Messiah. What man could top that? In poet Wilhelm Busch’s words: “To become a mother is not so difficult; on the other hand, being a mother is very much so!"  Yes a man, who obviously never endured the pains of childbirth, wrote this but he nails the point- truly a mother's job is never done. In His wisdom God specially equipped her for this task; giving her extra body parts; such as eyes in the back of her head to "see all and know all" and additional arms to hold a child, cook, and answer the phone at the same time. He gave her super-powers like ultrasonic hearing and the ability to see around corners, through walls and even into the future! He gave her the ability to multi-task and carry on numerous conversations at one time. He put within her a keen sense of discernment and the ability to know and feel what her children are going through. But most importantly He gave her the gift of love. A mother's love is unconditional. Your mother will love you even when you are hard to love. She will love you when you think no one else does and will continue to love you even when others have moved on. Because of her love for you, she will defend you to the death, even when you don't deserve it. There are times when her love will be tough love, but know it is for your own good. Being a mother is a choice - God's choice. He chooses who and when - who will birth and nurture His children and the season for it to happen. So, take time today and thank God for your mother. He hand picked her for you!
"My mother... she is beautiful, softened at the edges and tempered with a spine of steel. I want to grow old and be like her." Jodi Picoult
                                                                              Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2

A few weeks ago I began a four-part series on the human mindset and how it controls every part of our lives. In his book, A Time To Advance, Robert Heidler notes that the Bible divides the human race into three different mindsets; Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew. Last week we looked at the barbarian mindset whose basic operating principle is fear. This week I will be teaching on the Greek mindset. The operating principle of a Greek mindset is pride that filters through a humanistic intellect. Humanism by definition is the theory and practice that emphasizes reason, scientific inquiry, and human fulfillment in the natural world. Humanism denies the existence of any power or moral value superior to that of humanity. This way of thinking leaves no room for the supernatural moves of God. Someone with this type of mindset will base their belief system on human reason and not faith - every occurrence must be explained or reasoned. It is not hard to fall into his trap since this Greek mindset is so firmly embedded in our western society. Sadly much of the church today, especially in America, has succumbed to the Greek mindset as well. Since spiritual gifts such as miracles, healings, and prophesies defy human reason, they are not accepted. If you are going to walk with God you are going to have to accept some things that you don't understand. God loves to confound the mind to test the heart. I will continue next week on the Hebrew mindset. So tune in.
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Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1Co 1:20-24
                                                                        
​                                                                                                   Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

Are you going though a season of testing right now? Are you having your share of difficult days? Does it seem like you're never going to get a break? Well you're not alone, in fact you are in pretty good company. The apostle Paul had his share of bad days as well; "Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea." That's quite a resume I'd say, but the list goes on, "I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked." 2Co 11:25-27 Paul wasn't complaining, he was exhorting us. Through all of these trials Paul never lost sight of the big picture. He realized that his suffering was not for naught because of the high calling that was on his life. He knew he was never alone and that in the end God's purpose would be revealed and the glory would be all His. We have the same assurance that Paul did. Trials not only strengthen us, they give opportunity for God to be shown strong. So, instead of complaining when things get tough, fix your eyes on Jesus, never forgetting that you were called by Him and those that He calls He strengthens. Your perseverance and testimony will be an encouragement for others who are watching. "Your mess will become your message."- Max Lucado
We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2Co 4:8-10                
                                                                                      Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
"Split the sky with Your glory-Bring to life an awakening-Burn away everything that's not for You-Hear our voices crying out-We won't stop 'til heaven's come down-We won't stop 'til every knee bows to You-And all our hearts will sing is....Make a way for the King, the King is coming." The King is Coming The Newsboys
 
Two thousand years ago the news that Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem swept through the city. Throngs of people raced to the outskirts of town, to a place called Bethphage, just to get a glimpse of the Messiah. The crowds ran ahead of Jesus and spread their garments, along with palm branches that they had cut, on the road before Him. Still others waved the branches while they shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest heaven!" (Matt 21:9) Today is Palm Sunday - the day we celebrate this triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This event was prophesied by the prophet Zechariah over 500 years earlier: "Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt." (Zec 9:9) The event is recorded in all four gospels. Many who read these accounts will come to the conclusion that although His entry into Jerusalem was indeed triumphant, the events that unfolded the following week were tragic. Yes, this just and humble Man who rode into town on a donkey would be tortured and executed within a week for crimes He didn't commit, but we believers understand that this Man Jesus gave His life willingly- no one took it. He was Triumphant! He offered His perfect life for our sinful one. "For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time." (1Timothy 2:5,6). Celebrate His gift of salvation and pass along the good news. There is a lost world that needs to hear.
 
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1Cor 1:18
                                                                         Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." Romans 12:2
 
In his book, A Time To Advance, Robert Heidler notes that the Bible divides the human race into three different mindsets; Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew. The basic operating principle of the Barbarian mindset is fear. A Barbarian seeks to control another by fear and intimidation. The Barbarian mindset is Satan's chief tool of operation. He is an oppressor who comes "but to steal, kill, and destroy" and he holds most of mankind, including many Christians, in such fear that they are afraid to resist him. That answers why so many Christians are afraid to enter into intercession and spiritual warfare. They are terrified of the consequences because they are totally convinced that terrible things will happen to them if they resist the devil. If your life is dominated by fear, then you are being held captive by a barbarian warlord named Satan. It is impossible to walk both in fear and faith at the same time because they  are polar opposites. Know that there is hope - you don't have to stay this way. You can repent and be set free from this debilitating mindset. I will continue next week on the Greek mindset. So tune in.
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father."  Romans 8:14,15
                                                                                            Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking
 
As most of you know, the Dodson family is in the process of moving into a new house. Moving is a mixture of excitement and dread. We are excited about being in a new place with endless possibilities, but at the same we time dread all the work of getting there. Although almost everything has been moved into the new home, it is stashed and piled up everywhere. Getting it all organized and placed where it needs to be will require hours and hours of thought and tireless work. At the same time there are dozens of projects that need to be done to the house in order for it to accommodate our belongings and suit our needs. It can all get a little overwhelming at times, but the vision we have for the 'finished project' keeps us going. This principal is true in every aspect of our lives- our marriage, our children, our careers, and most importantly our spiritual lives. In order to not become overwhelmed or grow weary, we must have a vision for what we want each to look like some day and steadily work towards that goal. One of the things that God has been reminding me lately is to "just do the next thing." Remember, a house is not built in a day, but one brick at a time. In this 'instant potato' world that we live in it is easy to forget that. So, the next time you begin to feel overwhelmed, stop and pray. Ask your Heavenly Father to show you the next thing to do. He is faithful to answer.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Php 3:14
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Gal 6:9
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Php 4:6,7
                                                                                         Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
One day a father brought his son to Jesus. The young man was mute and, being possessed by an evil spirit, was often thrown into demonic convulsions. The father said to Jesus, "If you can do anything, have pity on us and help us!" Jesus replied with a rebuke, "What do you mean, 'if you can?' Anything is possible if a person believes!" Instantly the father of the child exclaimed, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!" Many times we are guilty of the same thing - not truly believing when we pray. We pray half-heartily, not really expecting God to do whatever it is that we are praying for. Know that your Heavenly Father loves you and nothing brings Him more pleasure than to do the 'impossible' for you. When you seek Him with a whole heart you will discover that He is able and willing to do whatever you ask in His name. Just believe.
 
"And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." Mark 16:17,18 NKJV

​                                                                                    Pastor Frank Dodson
 

Frankly Speaking

"For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer..." 1 Peter 3:12
 
The Lenten Season starts this coming Wednesday, March 6th. Lent is a 40 day period of fasting and prayer leading up to Resurrection Sunday. Lent is often misunderstood and many people refuse to accept the practice because they believe it is a tradition only for the liturgical churches. In reality, Lent is nothing more than a time of corporate prayer and fasting which originated in the very earliest days of the Church. Each year it was set aside as a preparatory time before Christ's resurrection was celebrated; a season when the faithful rededicated themselves and the new converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism. Does that sound unbiblical? In practice, Lent should be a season of fasting, soul-searching, repentance, and prayer. It is a season to reflect and take stock of our spiritual walk. So, what is different between lent and what we call a corporate fast? Does it really matter what we call it? Both implore us to do the same thing. This year, more than ever, there is much to pray and fast for. Undoubtably there are battles to be fought in the courtrooms and congresses across this nation, but the major battles will be fought in the prayer closets of the faithful. Please join with us in this season of drawing near to God and fast as the Lord leads you. Heaven will take notice.

"So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer." Ezra 8:23
​                                                                                     Pastor Frank Dodson
 

​Frankly Speaking
 
"Donde vive usted?" This is one of the first phrases that I learned in Mr. Garza's 6th grade Spanish class over 40 years ago. Translated to English it simply asks the question "Where do you live?" Easy enough for most of us as we would answer with our street address or city of residence. But what if the question was directed at a specific time- past, present, or future? Do you "vive" in the past - dwelling on past triumphs or failures? Do you have regrets? Do you ever wish you could go back and fix things by making different choices? What about the future? Are you fearful of what the future might bring? Do you worry about what kind of world your children will inherit? These are valid questions because most of us would have to answer yes to all of them. I believe that we all realize and regret the mistakes that we have made in the past and undoubtably must harbor some apprehension for the future, but do these thoughts control how we live out our lives in the present? Someone once said that it was okay to look back into the past, just don't live there. Nothing could be more true. Learning from the past is good, but trying to relive it over and over is not. Likewise, concern for the future is good but obsessive worry is not. We need to learn to live in the present. Living anywhere else but the present shows a lack of faith in God and His ability to redeem us or care for us. The present is where God works 'in us' and 'through us'. Let's train ourselves to live in the "now" and enjoy all that God has for us there. It truly is the best place to live.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6,7
                                                                                  Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
"Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times." Mark 4:3-8
 
In this parable Jesus is drawing an analogy between farming (sowing and cultivating the land) and sharing the gospel (sowing and cultivating hearts). In either case, when we sow (or plant) we don't always get the same results. People differ as much as soils. Some are hard and allow satan to come and steal the Word soon after they hear it. Others might receive it with joy initially, but because they don't have deep spiritual roots they fall away as soon as problems arise or they are mocked for believing. Still others allow the worries of life or the pursuit of wealth or pleasure to choke out the Word so that no fruit can be produced. But then there is the good soil. Those are the people who receive God's Word with a right heart that not only hears, but fully embraces the message of heaven's kingdom realm. These people are the ones who produce a bountiful harvest. Of the four kinds of soil represented here, only the fourth type produces the bountiful harvest that God desires. What kind of dirt are you?  Are you hard, shallow, thorn-infested, or fertile? Regardless of your answer, there is hope. If you believe you are one of the first three then it is time to ask God to cultivate your heart. Allow Him to plow and break-up that crusty outer layer caused by years of being trampled on. Allow Him to remove the rocks of disbelief. Allow Him to clear out the thorns of distraction. Then allow Him to fertilize your soul with His Word and watch what happens.
                                                                                       ​Pastor Frank Dodson

Frankly Speaking
 
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psm 139:13-16 NLT
 
Much has been said in the past few weeks about the late-term abortion bill that passed with jubilation in the New York Assembly that would allow the brutal murder of a defenseless living, breathing human being. But nothing speaks louder than the cold, stoic response from the Democrat representatives during the State of the Union when President Trump denounced the bill. As you all know, I try extremely hard to not be political in this column, but I felt this issue needed to be addressed. "If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths." Eze 3:18 You might say, "There is nothing I can do, this is a New York issue." But be advised, there are similar bills being pushed through the legislative bodies in all fifty states including our own state of Texas. This evil will not go away unless we wake up as a body of  believers and realize that what we face is a spiritual battle. Satan is determined to annihilate the coming generation in order to prevent them from stepping into their destiny and he is using human 'pawns' to do his bidding. Pray for your representatives, that the hoodwink would be lifted and that they would see the evil of abortion and infanticide and repent. Pray that the Lord give them courage to stand up against party politics and vote for life. Pray protection over those who do. Church, this is our 'kyros' moment - we were born for a time such as this. If we don't rise up who will?
                                                                                    Pastor Frank Dodson