Tag Archives: Pastor Mark Lee

When We Are Drowning In Our Blessings

By Pastor Mark Lee

 

Last month, California’s prayers were answered.  After years of water shortages and dry weather, the sky opened up and rain began to fall.  And fall.  Within weeks, approximately 80% of the state’s historic drought had ended.  Californians, however, soon found themselves drowning in their blessings.  As the soil became saturated and the streets flooded, many people grew frustrated with the very thing they had asked God to send.

 

Being unappreciative of God’s gifts is not unusual.  Just take a look at our daily lives.  We yearn for children, but lament the active toddler or trying teenager.  We ask God for shelter, but despise the never-ending housework. We pray for a steady paycheck, but can’t stand our co-workers.  From the beloved spouse we argue with to the dinner we don’t want to cook, we often have a tendency to take life’s blessings for granted.

 

Much has been said about the need to have an “attitude of gratitude.”  And honestly, who doesn’t want to be grateful for everything they have?  Unfortunately, it is easy to lose sight of the positive when faced with the negative.  No matter how hard we try to fight them off, bad thoughts can creep in.  Because of this, we need to intentionally find something to be thankful for in each situation we face – no matter how bad it is.

 

Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”  The next time you are frustrated while cleaning the toilet or sitting in traffic, remember that many of these circumstances are the result of your answered prayers.

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m.

When We Are Drowning In Our Blessings

EV - Mark LeeBy Pastor Mark Lee

Last month, California’s prayers were answered.  After years of water shortages and dry weather, the sky opened up and rain began to fall.  And fall.  Within weeks, approximately 80% of the state’s historic drought had ended.  Californians, however, soon found themselves drowning in their blessings.  As the soil became saturated and the streets flooded, many people grew frustrated with the very thing they had asked God to send.

Being unappreciative of God’s gifts is not unusual.  Just take a look at our daily lives.  We yearn for children, but lament the active toddler or trying teenager.  We ask God for shelter, but despise the never-ending housework. We pray for a steady paycheck, but can’t stand our co-workers.  From the beloved spouse we argue with to the dinner we don’t want to cook, we often have a tendency to take life’s blessings for granted.

Much has been said about the need to have an “attitude of gratitude.”  And honestly, who doesn’t want to be grateful for everything they have?  Unfortunately, it is easy to lose sight of the positive when faced with the negative.  No matter how hard we try to fight them off, bad thoughts can creep in.  Because of this, we need to intentionally find something to be thankful for in each situation we face – no matter how bad it is.

Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”  The next time you are frustrated while cleaning the toilet or sitting in traffic, remember that many of these circumstances are the result of your answered prayers.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m.

New Year, No Fear

By Pastor Mark LeeMark Lee New

Many artists believe that a blank canvas is a beautiful, yet terrifying sight.  While the empty space is full of immense potential, the creative process itself can be time consuming, uncertain and intense.  The same could be said about any new venture.  Whether you are beginning a painting or starting a project, the excitement for what could be is often mixed with some anxiety for what lies ahead.

As we enter a new year, it is easy to understand the opportunities and challenges that a blank canvas brings.  Ahead of us lie twelve months full of possibility.  The next 365 days can bring us everything from increased professional success to a more physically fit body.  However, on the flip side, the new year could also bring unexpected heartbreak.

While many people have started 2017 with renewed hope, others can’t help but feel dread.  Perhaps last year did not meet their expectations.  Poor health, surprising losses or other disappointments have left them less than enthusiastic about the future.  At the same time, the current political turmoil, global unrest, and changing social climate is enough to make even the most optimistic people feel a concerned.

So, what should we do if we find ourselves frightened by the blank canvas of 2017?  The answer is simple:  fear not.  Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”  God holds the future in his hands, so it is not ours to worry about.  After all, every masterpiece has to start as a blank canvas.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m

 

 

 

 

The Grudge: A Horror of the Heart

By Pastor Mark Lee

With Halloween right around the corner, many people will view at least one scary movie in the upcoming weeks.  From current releases to old standbys, these terrifying tales have become as much a part of October as trick-or-treating and pumpkin patches.  One fan favorite is The Grudge, a thriller released in 2004.  Described by critics as “a creep-fest that doesn’t make a whole lot of sense,” the film focuses on a curse that consumes its victims.  Sounds aptly named, doesn’t it?

Nearly everyone has been hurt by the action or words or another.  It is not unusual for emotional wounds to leave you with lasting feelings of anger, bitterness, or vengeance.  As a result, we find ourselves avoiding the offenders, rejoicing in their misfortunes, and plotting their demise.  Much like the film of the same name, a grudge is a curse that consumes the victim it has inhabited.

It has been said that harboring feelings of resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.  More often than not, our inability to offer forgiveness is more detrimental to ourselves than to our enemies.  Holding grudges eats away at your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.  When we let go of our resentment, we make space in our lives for peace, gratitude, and joy.

In Romans 12:18-19, the apostle Paul wrote, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.  Never take your own revenge, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.”  Why entertain a horror story in your own heart when you can hand it over to the Almighty?

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m.

 

God Never Fails, But People Do

Pastor Mark Lee

Pastor Mark Lee

By Pastor Mark Lee

Last year, the public disgrace of an outspoken reality television star made national headlines.  Not surprisingly, the media was quick to point out the conflict between this individual’s grievous wrongdoing and his frequently-professed Christianity.  Soon, it seemed as if everyone was talking about this man of faith and his fall from grace.  For many, his actions were both disappointing and discouraging.

Unfortunately, it is not unusual to learn about the transgressions of Christians.  After all, a faith in Christ does not make you immune to the temptations of the flesh.  Whether it is the misconduct of a public figure or the hurt inflicted by a Christian friend, the sins and mistakes of believers can seem like betrayal.

In reality, even the most virtuous of people disappoint others at some point during their spiritual walk.  It may not be because of some horrible offense, but simply because expectations were not met.   The problem is that people often reject or turn away from Christ because they feel as if they have been let down by Christians.

When you put your faith in friends, family, or even the church, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.  At some point, you will find yourself frustrated or disillusioned by each person you know.  It is important to remember, however, that there will be moments when others are disappointed by you.  The key is to not allow ourselves to be swayed by the disappointment.

When we can look beyond the failures of men and remain focused on God, our faith becomes stronger and more mature.  Psalms 118:8 says, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.”  People fail.  It is inevitable.  God, however, never fails.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Whom Then Shall I Fear?

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Several years ago, a study was released connecting common worries with actual outcomes.  Subjects were asked to write down their fears over an extended period of time.  They were later asked to review their concerns and identify which came to fruition.  Remarkably, approximately 85 percent of what the subjects worried about never happened.  In short, they wasted their time and energy on absolutely nothing.

Of course, fear is part of life.  Daily concerns regarding health, finances, and responsibilities plague us.  In addition, there are national and global situations that create anxiety.  From terrorism and political turmoil to social unrest and natural disasters, it is not surprising that an estimated 19 million Americans have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

With fear being such an ingrained part of human nature, it is easy to see why it is a common theme in the Bible.  In fact, the word “fear” is mentioned more than 500 times in the King James Version.  At the same time, some biblical scholars claim the phrase “fear not” is repeated 365 times – one for each day of the year.  With “fear not” being the most repeated command in the Bible, you know it is a message that God wants us to take to heart.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  While belief in God does not make you immune to sadness or suffering, it does provide hope.  We can’t get rid of fear, but we can rest assured in knowing that God is in control.  After all, we know how this story will end.

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

 

 

When God Says No

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee  

As babies, one of the first words we learn to say is “no.”  In fact, this negative reply quickly becomes a regular part of our vocabulary.  However, the fact that this simple two-letter word is universally understood by people of various ages, cultures, and backgrounds doesn’t make it any easier to digest.  Whether you hear it from a parent, a boss, or a spouse, the word “no” is usually not a response we welcome with open arms.

Even more difficult than receiving a “no” from someone close to us is receiving it from God.  When you fervently pray for Him to intervene on your behalf – whether it is for something as significant as healing or as insignificant as a break in traffic – the answer “no” can be disappointing.  In our disappointment, we often fail to remember that God’s got everything under control.

Throughout life, we will encounter circumstances and situations that turn out much different than we originally imagined or planned.  When we find ourselves in the midst of these trying times, it can feel as if we are being punished or are being prevented from doing something. Ultimately, hindsight will reveal that God’s plans are better than our own.

In Proverbs 16:9 we are reminded that, “A man’s heart devises his way: but the Lord directs his steps.”  God’s gifts to us can sometimes enter our lives as difficulties, frustrations, and pain.  Much like a parent may tell a toddler “no” to keep them safe and help them learn and grow, a negative response from the Lord prepares us for something positive.  Through these “no” answers, we can reach a higher level in our spiritual life and a deeper dependence upon Him.  Encouraging, yes?

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

 

 

Learning To Love Yourself

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

 

This summer, many people will spend time visiting beaches, lounging by the pool, and soaking up the sun with a good book in hand.   While popular fiction and non-fiction titles are sure to be included on quite a few reading lists, statistics indicate that the majority of summer readers will be enjoying self-improvement books.  In fact, self-help is a multi-billion dollar industry and has become the best-selling literary genre.

With titles such as “Love Yourself Like Your Life Depended on It” and “Knowing Your Worth,” it would seem that self-loathing is as much of an epidemic, if not more so, then selfishness.  The problem with having a negative view of oneself is that it can affect a variety of aspects of life.  The choices you make and actions you take are all influenced by the way you feel about yourself.

Although everyone agrees that is it important to focus more on others, it is also important to remember that we are allowed to love ourselves.  Taking care of our bodies, giving ourselves grace, and speaking kindly to ourselves is not a reflection of selfishness.  After all, when we care for our own mental, physical, and spiritual needs, we are better equipped to serve others.

The key to loving ourselves is to know where our value lies.  Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  Our worth should not come from the opinions of others, the size of our bank accounts, or the reflection in the mirror.  Instead, it should come from the fact that God made us and He doesn’t make junk.

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

 

Is it Time to Take Action?

By Pastor Mark Lee

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

In the entertainment industry, the month of May marks the beginning of the blockbuster movie season.  From now until the end of July, the film industry will be releasing some of their most highly-anticipated films of the year.  Not surprisingly, the majority of these films are in the action genre.  In fact, during the first few days of May, two of the most popular franchises will debut their newest offerings – Captain America: Civil War and X-Men: Apocalypse.

By definition, an action film is one in which a resourceful character successfully overcomes incredible odds, including horrible situations and villainous opponents. Their fast-paced plots and exciting stunts draw large audiences and make a lot of money.  The popularity of this type of movie is not surprising.  After all, who would pay to watch a movie about a man who just sits around and hopes that his problems will go away?

Much like action film heroes, we often find ourselves facing obstacles that are seemingly insurmountable. When our backs are up against the wall, the primary response should always be to turn to God.  However, this isn’t where our involvement ends.  For example: the unemployed don’t just pray for God’s provision, they also start applying for new jobs.

James 2:17 says, “In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by action, is dead.”  We have all heard the popular saying, “God helps those who help themselves.”  While this is not entirely true (He does, after all, intervene when we are helpless), the truth is that we cannot expect God to provide for our every need as we sit idly by.  Yes, we need to have faith that our Heavenly Father will take care of us.  However, we also need to remember that faith often requires action.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

March Is The Real Month For Love

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Last month, an estimated $13 billion was spent celebrating Valentine’s Day.  Approximately 200 million roses, 180 million cards, and 58 million pounds of chocolate were purchased in the name of love.  Despite all of the money that consumers shelled out, many people admitted that they were less than enthusiastic about February 14.  In fact, nearly 40 percent of the population did not observe the holiday at all.

Whether they consider it an unnecessary hassle or simply an excuse for consumerism, the detractors are unanimous in their belief that Valentine’s Day has little to do with real love. Even the holiday’s fans would be hard-pressed to deny that it is romance, and not love, that serves as their motivator when booking reservations and buying gifts.  Romance may be all about warm and fuzzy feelings, but love is much more complicated.  It is unconditional, sacrificial, and not based solely on emotions.  Whereas romance is a noun, love is a verb.

So, why write about love in March?  Isn’t Valentine’s Day over?  Aren’t all of the heart-shaped candies on clearance? Sure!  But, this year we will be celebrating Easter on Sunday, March 27.  And, while Valentine’s Day has chocolate and roses, Easter has the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.  What greater example of love is there than this?

In Romans 5:8, the apostle Paul wrote “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:  While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  The truth is that it doesn’t matter whether your social calendar was booked solid last month, or if you were a member of the broken hearts club.  Who needs a valentine when you have a Savior?

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sunday’s at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

The Road to Humility

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

As our country prepares to elect the next President of the United States, the men and women vying for the position face off in a series of televised debates.  These verbal battles are where campaigns are bolstered, promises are made, and plans are outlined.  During these events, the candidates’ speaking abilities, political knowledge, and personalities will be on display.  One thing that most likely will not be on display, however, is their humility.  In fact, some people believe a humble politician is a creature as mythical as a unicorn.

Humility isn’t only rare in politics.  Several social commenters have noted that we are stuck in the era of “me, me, me.”  One has to look no further than social media to see that self-promotion is now the norm.  Haven’t we all taken a selfie at some point?  With so much time being spent focusing on ourselves, is humility even possible?

Author C.S. Lewis once wrote “Humility is not thinking less of yourself.  It is thinking of yourself less.”  Common thought is that humble people are weak or lack confidence.  In reality, a humble individual realizes that their talent is a gift, their success was achieved with help, and their strength is tempered with gentleness.  A humble man gives credit where credit is due, acknowledges that he has limitations, and admits when he makes mistakes.

Luke 4:11 says “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”  True humility is a journey that we can choose, or be forced, to take.  And, the funny thing about this journey is that as soon as we feel we are reaching our destination, we have moved further from the finish line.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

 

Kindness is Contagious

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Complimentary cups of coffee, free lunches, and other fun surprises were recently gifted to people throughout the Inland Empire as part of a special project launched by VantagePoint Church on December 13. Everyone attending services that Sunday was invited to partner with the church in an effort to spread love and cheer during the holiday season.  Each individual was given a small red envelope containing $5, $10, or $20, and was asked to use the money to perform a random act of kindness.

The thought behind this project was that it would provide a ray of light in a world consumed by darkness. In the days that followed the distribution of the envelopes, stories of joy, hope, and excitement were shared.  Wonderful conversations, unexpected connections, and emotional encounters occurred because of these random acts.

While we expected the project to positively impact the community, the reality is that the givers were affected even more!  In fact, many went beyond the red envelopes and gave from their own pockets.  Some individuals have even announced plans to incorporate random acts into their daily lives.  The members of VantagePoint Church have discovered that kindness is contagious – and addicting!

As we enter this new year, newspaper headlines highlight the negativity that has infected society.  From terrorist attacks and senseless crimes to political turmoil and general discord, it can often seem as if there is nothing we can do to combat the darkness in the world.  But, there is.  Luke 6:35 says, “Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great.”  After all, there is only one thing can truly defeat evil – the love of God!

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Give Peace a Chance This Thanksgiving

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

By Pastor Mark Lee

Millions of Americans will soon be giving thanks while gorging on platefuls of turkey.  Although Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863, this feasting tradition can be traced back several hundred years earlier to Plymouth, Massachusetts. In 1621, Puritan settlers celebrated their first good harvest with an impressive banquet. The most remarkable aspect of this first Thanksgiving was that it was made possible by the region’s natives. Despite their obvious differences, the Wampanoag people had helped the settlers survive.

While it is highly likely that the natives were concerned by the Puritans, they overcame their suspicions and reached out. Over the next several weeks, it is possible that many of us will find ourselves in a similar position. Statistics reveal that one of the most stressful aspects of the holiday season is family.  Ancient hostility and old offenses can leave us feeling hurt, angry or anxious.  And, while our complicated relationships are avoidable throughout the year, the holidays often make them inescapable.

Skipping Thanksgiving dinner with the family may be tempting, but the reality is that we all eventually come in contact with “haters.”  When doing so, we need to be honest and apologetic about the role we play in the discord.  And, above all, we need to give grace to those who have wronged us.  After all, how many times have you regretted something you have said or done that was unkind?

One of the most powerful ways to combat tension is with kindness. In Luke 6:35, Jesus says, “Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great.”  Imagine how shocked the settlers were when the natives lent a helping hand. Now, imagine how shocked Grumpy Uncle Bob would be if you gave him the last piece of pumpkin pie. What could be sweeter than a peaceful holiday season?

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Halloween Candy And Other Temptations

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

October is magical.  The leaves change colors, the weather cools down, and stores begin stocking copious amounts of individually wrapped candies.

As we all know, these delightful treats are hard to resist.  Retailers estimate that Americans buy nearly 600 million pounds of candy a year.  Although these sweets are purchased primarily for trick-or-treaters, many households have to replenish their supplies before the 31st rolls around.

While it is true that few can ignore the siren call of Halloween candy, a craving for unhealthy food isn’t the only desire people need to control.  Many fall victim to the allure of unnecessary shopping, idle gossip, casual sex, unrighteous anger, and a number of other enticements.  While individuals may feel their battle to ignore certain urges is unique, the truth is that temptation is a universal experience.

Nobody ever plans to eat an entire pint of ice cream or lose their temper with their children.  Even though we make a conscious effort to always say, eat, and do the right thing, moments of weakness are inevitable.  When our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are not being met, it becomes increasingly difficult to regulate our actions.

A great way to resist temptation is to remember the three As:  Admit, Avoid, and Ask.  Once you admit there is a problem, it is necessary to avoid your vice.  Asking friends and family to help you stay strong is also a helpful way to fight your urges.  Better yet, look to Heaven for your strength.

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, the apostle Paul promises that “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”

Halloween candy may be delicious, but it isn’t nearly as sweet as the feeling of overcoming temptation.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

 

The Weary Need To Rest

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Physical exertion is vital to the success of any athlete.  However, allowing the body to rest is of equal importance.  When we exercise, our muscle tissue is torn and our energy is depleted.  The human body needs the time between workouts to repair and strengthen itself.  For this reason, many athletes build recovery time into their physical regimen.  In fact, pushing yourself too hard can be detrimental to your physical health.

Much like athletes, accomplished artists and musicians fall into a daily routine of intense practice and periods of recuperation.  The truth is that while hard work is definitely a fundamental element of achievement, it is also imperative that we give ourselves regular breaks.   Study after study regarding the habits of office workers, the benefits of vacation, the importance of meditation, and the advantages of spending time outdoors have all revealed that many important mental processes seem to require downtime.

As the summer comes to an end and the kids return to school, many of us find ourselves falling into the pattern of being “too busy.”  Work, technology, family obligations, and household chores eat up much of our time.   In order to fulfill our responsibilities, we fail to take breaks.  Ironically, this can actually reduce our effectiveness.  When we go without rest, our productivity decreases, our ability to concentrate is impaired, and our creativity suffers.

The Bible is not silent about our need for rest.  In Psalms 127:2, David wrote, “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat – for He grants sleep to those He loves.”  God intended rest to be a gift. When we allow ourselves to occasionally “be still,” life becomes much more enjoyable!

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

There Is Beauty In Our Brokenness

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

In 2002, a reality show involving dramatic home improvements debuted.  Every week, viewers would tune into ABC’s Extreme Home Makeover to watch as rundown residences were transformed into impressive works of art.  More often than not, the construction crew would have to completely demolish the existing building before an amazing new establishment could be built.

One of the key elements highlighted in each Extreme Home Makeover episode was the reason behind the home’s disrepair.  Even though the featured families were decent human beings, they had fallen on hard times.  Whether it was because of a natural disaster, a financial crisis, or a devastating illness, these unfortunate people had found themselves unable to make the necessary repairs.

In many ways, our lives are similar to home maintenance.  Usually, we don’t have a problem fulfilling our responsibilities, nurturing our relationships, and taking care of our personal needs.  But at some point, we also encounter times of crisis.  Whether caused by something beyond our control or the result of our own poor choices, our lives can suddenly and unexpectedly fall into disrepair.

While it is very hard to embrace these troubles, the reality is that hard times are often necessary.  Just as the construction team on Extreme Home Makeover has to tear down an existing structure before replacing it with a masterpiece, our personal and spiritual brokenness needs to occur before we can transform into stronger, more mature individuals,

Matthew 5:3 tells us, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Although it is difficult to navigate a major crisis, there is always beauty in our brokenness.  Sometimes you have to tear down a shack before building a mansion.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

It’s Time To Catch On Fire!

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

This month, hundreds of thousands of people will commemorate the birth of our nation by enjoying a firework show – or two!  Pyrotechnic displays have become a national tradition, with Americans using them to celebrate their independence for more than two hundred years.  In fact, an article published in a 1777 issue of the Virginia Gazette mentioned a “grand exhibition of fireworks” that left the city “beautifully illuminated.”

While fireworks and the Fourth of July seem practically synonymous, the truth is that people have been using fire to celebrate, intimidate, or entertain for thousands of years.  As early as 200 B.C., the Chinese were using firecrackers to threaten their enemies and scare away evil spirits.  Since then, fire has been used in circus tricks, at special events, and in wilderness survival.  Even the Bible has numerous examples of fire being used to emphasize a point or draw attention.  From Moses and the burning bush to the consecration of Solomon’s Temple, God repeatedly used flames to speak to his people.

Despite its literal meaning, the figurative concept of being “on fire” is extremely positive.  This label is often given to people who are extremely enthusiastic.  Much like a firework display, nothing draws attention more than someone buzzing with excitement or burning with intensity.  When you are enthusiastic about your life, your work, or the pursuit of your goals, those around you can’t help but be inspired.

In Ecclesiastes 9:10, God’s word tells us, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.”  While the task may seem menial (when was the last time you were enthusiastic about cleaning a toilet?), tackling it with a positive fervor will not only encourage others – it may also encourage you!

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Where Do You Find Your Hope?

Mark Lee New

Pastor Mark Lee

By Pastor Mark Lee

In many ways, this time of year is all about hope.  Whether you are preparing to graduate, planning a wedding, or simply anticipating a vacation, this month is full of promise.  Because of this, June has the ability to turn everybody into school kids anxiously awaiting the start of summer.  After all, who doesn’t like to have something to look forward to?

It is common for people to believe that something better is on the horizon.  In fact, it can actually be beneficial.  Research indicates that hopeful individuals experience higher levels of achievement.  In scientific studies, athletes, college students, and test takers all performed better when they were optimistic about the future.

The problem, however, is that it is not always easy to be optimistic.  We expect our vacations to bring us freedom, our graduations to bring us wealth, and our weddings to bring us companionship. But what happens when our vacations are over, our job hunts are unsuccessful, and we are fighting with our spouses?

As humans, we have a tendency to believe that specific people, events, or accomplishments will fix our problems.  We put our hope in these things, expecting that they will improve our lives.  But, this doesn’t always happen.  And, when it does, the results are often temporary.  Those things that once brought us hope can often leave us feeling hopeless.

For a guaranteed and permanent solution, we have to look beyond this world. In Psalms 25:3, David wrote, “No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame.”  Unlike the people and things in our lives, God is all-powerful and ever-present.  If we place our hope in Him, we will never be disappointed.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Superheroes In Our Midst

Pastor Mark Lee

Pastor Mark Lee

By Pastor Mark Lee

Earlier this month, one of the year’s most highly anticipated movies was released.  Since then, people across the country have been flocking to theaters to see the Marvel franchise’s latest installment, “Avengers:  Age of Ultron.”  The film’s box office success is not surprising.  From Captain America to Wolverine, superheroes have been appealing to audiences for decades.

There are many theories about why society is drawn to these types of characters.  Some say it is because we have a deep desire for someone to help us tackle our toughest problems.  Others believe it is because superheroes are marked as special, which is something we all want for ourselves.  Whatever the case may be, the idea of a single individual possessing the power to change the world is extremely appealing.

So, what exactly makes someone a superhero?  The answer may lie in one of the genre’s most popular characters.  Batman, or Bruce Wayne, is just a regular guy who uses his resources for the greater good.  He may not have special powers, but he is determined to do the right thing and help his fellow man.

The month of May is dedicated to real-life people who do just this.  Not only is this “National Military Appreciation Month,” but there are also days and weeks set aside to honor teachers, nurses, and police officers.  And, of course, who could forget Mother’s Day?  The truth is that our community is filled with everyday superheroes that are committed to making a difference.

In Mark 9:35, Jesus said “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”  You see, it doesn’t take a Batmobile to be a superhero.  It simply takes a selfless heart.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

A Season of Renewal

By Pastor Mark Lee

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point in Eastvale

Although Eastvale residents may not notice much of a change, some individuals living in other parts of the United States are currently celebrating the official end of winter.  At the same time California has been experiencing temperatures in excess of 90 degrees, New England and parts of the northeast have seen record snowfall. Needless to say, people all over the country are welcoming spring with open arms.

However, you don’t have to immerse yourself in freezing temperatures to appreciate the beauty of the season.  After all, this is a time of growth and promise.  Everywhere you look, the world is emerging from darkness and new life is appearing.  The ice is melting, the clouds are receding, and the days that lie ahead are full of possibility.  Spring brings hope, optimism and new beginnings.  What could be more beautiful?

Perhaps the most wonderful thing about this time of year is that this sense of renewal isn’t limited to nature.  It is not uncommon for people to be inspired by the beauty of the season and use it as an opportunity to initiate changes in their own lives.  Whether this means recommitting to a resolution, improving a relationship, or pursuing a goal, spring gives us the opportunity to start all over again with a clean slate.

Isaiah 40:31 says, “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

If you are planning to use spring as an opportunity to recharge and refresh your life, I encourage you to include God in that plan.  With Him on your side, success is inevitable.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.