Another Baby is born

I'm not talking about a real kicking and crying baby-- It's too late for human babies to be produced by this old guy. Rather I'm talking about my newest book Walking with the King. This week the presses are running madly and by Thursday, I'll pick up my baby from the printer. I still find it exciting to flip the pages of a freshly produced book with my name on it. Counting the children's books, this is number 16.

Walking with the King is about the 3 year journey that Jesus' 12 disciples took beside him as they traversed the 90 miles between Tyre and the Southern towns of Judea. We get to listen in beside him as he told stories, taught life lessons, encountered demonized victims, healed blind men and lepers, and shocked his weary disciples when he walked toward them on the waters of Galilee. ( I can hardly wait until our International Copnvention in Israel, in July, when Susan and I will get to walk on the same dusty paths!)

This 2nd book in the Kingdom series will help teach us how to live life in the Kingdom of God. Compared to our upside-down world, Kingdom values are mind blowing. They are well summarized in one of Jesus' teachings "You can't live until you die!" The disciples who walked in Jesus' big footsteps didn't even get it until after he rose from the dead, I'm working now on the 3rd book of the Trilogy, called Sitting with the King. That one will be about sitting beside him on his throne and actually practising using our Kingdom tools. It'll be a blast!

Light and Darkness clash

Tomorrow I'll be speaking about the time recorded in Genesis chapter 3 when Adam and Eve met the Prince of Darkness for the first time. They had been given their job descriptions to cultivate the Garden, protect it from outside intrusion, and subdue the animals (all with the ultimate purpose of learning how to rule so they could reign besidwe King Jesus in eternity) but now they were ready for the introduction of opposition. The truth is we only grow through opposition.

I heard a cute story from Merelyn Webber when Susan and I were with her and Garry in Calgary last week-end. In the fall she brought her gold fish inside from the outdoor pool because of the impending freezing weather. She put them all in a large tank together, but one of the fish was especially agressive and mean to the others. To discipline the badly behaving fish, Merelyn removed him from his friends and placed him in a small glass bowl of water all by himself. Then she butted the small bowl up to the other tank so the fish could see what fun he was missing. He seemed sad, but Merelyn persisted until she felt that he had learned his lesson. After a good amount of time by himself, she put the little goldfish back in with the others. He behaved perfectly from that moment on! Lesson learned! Now that's what I call taking authority over the fish of the sea!

So Adam and Eve met Nachash (formerly known as the angel called Lucifer, the Enlightened one) They were strolling hand in hand through the center of the Garden of Eden, just looking at the very beautiful Tree of the knowledge of good and evil, when a very bright and shiney angel slipped in beside them. "What are you looking at kids?" he sweetly asked.

"We were just looking at this delicious tree that God planted in the middle of the garden."

"Have you tried the fruit yet? It's sumptuous!".... We'll pick up the story tomorrow morning. It is one of the most life changing scenes in all of history.

Susan and I have just returned from a very exhilarating trip to Alberta. Leaving our church in Terry's capable hands (he and Gord and a strong team of young adults left on Sunday for Costa Rica) we left on Saturday for Airdrie, just north of Calgary.

On Saturday evening we ate dinner with Pastor Barry (Barry is a far too popular name in the FGCC) and Audrey Marsten. Barry has just been appointed as Unit Supervisor of our Alberta churches. He has an awesome pastor's heart.
On Sunday morning he allowed me to preach in his delightful church, and we also layed hands on him, appointing and anointing him for his new work. We loved the WaterBrook church. It reminds me a lot of Northside-very warm and gracious people.

After church we took Youth pastor Brad and his fiancée Yvonne to lunch. They are a very sharp young couple. The future of the Foursquare church in Canada looks bright

That evening Susan and I drove to Calgary to the home of Pastors Garry and Merelyn Webber. They prepared a sumptuous dinner for is and we had a refreshing visit.

This morning we drove up to Red Deer to have brunch with Pastor John and Carol Klooster from Millet. It is so good for is to get to know the pastors and see them in their own unique neighborhoods. I'm very proud of our family of Churches and our fellow leaders

Cultivate & Guard

1942 Dad in his B24 Liberator Bomber


(Dad and Mom (Agnes) 1965)

My dad died this past week. The timing could not have been better. Although dad was 89 years of age, he was in surprisingly great shape. Never having drunk alcohol or smoked, being a tireless worker (still chopping and hauling trees into his late eighties) and being a heath conscious eater. Dad was surprised when his doctor told him that cancer had thoroughly invaded his vital organs. By January dad knew that he wouldn’t last more than a few weeks. Each of us 8 kids, our spouses, children and grandchildren had time to visit him, tell him we loved him and say good-bye. Dad used our visits wisely too. I wrote a book last year, called “Dying Well” in which I recommend that we all say what is necessary to say before it’s too late. Saying “I’m sorry” for anything that may linger as a blockage in our relationship; “I forgive you” to clean out the other side of damage incurred; “Thank you” for all that has been lovingly given to make our life and death more fulfilling, “I love you” of course; and most important “I trust in God”. The assurance that a dying person knows that he’s in right standing before God is the best gift he can give to those he leaves behind. In each of our conversations with dad he remembered little things that he’d forgotten to apologize for. “I know I hurt your feelings when you were 15 and I said that I didn’t have time to help you on that school project—I’m so sorry son.” He also told each of us how much he loved us, how thankful he was to have been our father, and how proud he was of each of our achievements. We had the privilege of praying together during those last visits. My dad died well. The one regret that he had was that he was going to be buried in the winter. Dad loved God’s creation. Every insect, bird, animal or flower was a reflection of the love and beauty of God. In January, as he lay in the hospital and looked outside, he saw the dark cold drizzly rain and lamented. “It’s going to be a very dreary site where my body is laid to rest. I only wish that I could have lived until the flowers started to blossom.” He made it to his birthday on February 19. That was a milestone—but on March 9, he looked out his bedroom window in Abbotsford and saw the pinkish hew of the cherry blossoms and the first budding of crocuses and daffodils. It’s Thursday today as we lay his body in the graveyard. The flowers are popping out of their shells. An early spring is upon us—just in time. Just before dad died this week, he spoke to my mom, who was caring for him right up to the end. It was hard for him to speak, but he looked at her very tired face (she was wearing a pretty gold blouse, because she didn’t want him to see her in dark colours) and said, “Honey, you look so beautiful.” Then he managed, “Thank you so much for being such a wonderful wife and for caring for me up to the very end. I love you.” And with a final whisper, dad said, “I’m going to heaven now. Good-bye,” and he died. My dad died well. It was such an honour to give his eulogy at the service on today.

(Dad & Mom (Audrey) 1995)
My siblings, Susan and myself at funeral service.

Jenn, Sam and Katie

Susan and I have just arrived home from a very encouraging trip to Courtney and Powell River. After Sunday church we headed for the Horseshoe Bay Ferry. The rain was beating down on us, but we were excited to get away and visit some very dear friends on the Island. We braved the storm all the way up the Island Highway and finally arrived at the very beautiful Crown Isle resort, where we spent the night.

Monday morning I returned to the Northgate Foursquare Church in Courtney to finish teaching through the Old Testament with the very bright-eyed students of the Masters Commission. At our lunch break, Susan and I had a delightful lunchtime visit with Ken and Eunice Gaglardi who serve their son Scott as pastors of the church he leads. It is so encouraging to have seasoned elders like the Gaglardis undergirding the ministries of younger Pastors.

After I finished covering up to Malachi with the young leaders, Susan and I met Fred and Janet Farren for dinner. We both sat fascinated with the colorful stories that our dear friends shared with us . As retired pastors (Fred was formerly an ordained Catholic priest), having served as pioneer pastors and unit leaders in the Atlantic region, Fred and Janet have experienced about everything a pastor comes up against. Through it all they have not been wearied or hardened; rather they both are among the most gracious soft-hearted pastors I've ever met.

On Tuesday morning, we sailed aross the Strait to Powell River to visit with our lovable friends Sam and Katie Alescio who have both worked with us at our church. Katie's sister Jenn Wright is the pastor of the church they now serve. Over lunch we got to know Jenn a bit better. She is terrific! Like her sisters Katie and Tina (who will be working with us at the National Office) Jenn is a gifted leader. She actually reminds me a lot of what I've read about our denomination's founder Aimee Semple McPherson. Thanks guys for a very refreshing and encouraging visit!

Until we meet again Dad

ALLAN GEORGE BUZZA
February 19, 1918 – March 10, 2007


Dad has been an imitable model as a man, Christian, husband, father, grandfather, friend and business man. He has positively influenced many thousands, yet he remained quiet and humble throughout his 89 years of life.

Ten words that describe him are gracious, gentle, encouraging, intelligent, kind, teacher, solid, peaceful, selfless and winsome.

Dad loved God faithfully; loved his wife romantically; loved his family proudly; loved work diligently; loved nature passionately. He has left a strong legacy for us who have known and loved him, which will be remembered and treasured for generations to come.

“Thank you Lord for your generosity in giving this great man to show us the right way to love and live”.

Something's not right

I can't think of another time when God said that something that He had done was not good, but that's exactly what he said after he'd created Adam and then given him his assignment of cultivating and keeping the garden of Eden. "It is not good that man should be alone." God knew that for Adam to be successful and to fail in his work, he needed help.

And that's when He fashioned Eve from Adam's rib. God used the part of man's body that protected his most valuable and vulnerable organs from which to build a partner in ministry. He used the same word that David used to describe the Holy Spirit, our helper. On this Sunday I'll be talking about the importance of women in the life of every man. We would not be who we are and could not do what we do without women. Men and women both are made in the image of God. It takes a biblically balanced view of both sexes to understand God.

Cultivate and keep

Probably the question that I am asked more than any other is "What is my purpose in life?"
Especially after I say that we are all going to be asked by God "Did you do what I told you to do?"
We're given a couple of very strong clues as to what our purpose is in the first couple of chapters of Genesis. Genesis 1:26 and 27 says that Adam and Eve were both given an assignment to practise rulership. That hinted at the fact that we are in training for ultimate rulership.

Then in the next chapter of Genesis, Moses wrote that Adam's specific assignment was to cultivate the garden and to keep it (or protect; build a hedge around it) Cultivation has to do with his being fruitful, or accomplishing his assigned work. The assignment each of us are given has to do with our basic gift that was wired into each of us when we were conceived. It will relate to our family, our work and our ministry. Keeping (or protecting) has to do with our vigilant care and protection of that assignment from the invasive schemes of the enemy. I'll talk more about that in my message tomorrow.

Maureen turns 40?

One of my favourite people in this big world of 6 billion people is Maureen Reid. She is the lay-pastor who leads all the Art ministries in Northside church. Whether it's directing the choir, hosting an Art show, overseeing and producing a skit or a full scale drama, Maureen does what she's so gifted to do with cool grace. She also happens to be (along with Susan) one of my very favorite singers.

As I said at her suprise party, Maureen reminds me of John the Baptist. It was said of him that "when his disciple heard John speak, that they followed Jesus." (Most of us preachers would do well to emulate John's preaching motives.) As for Maureen, when we hear her sing on Sunday mornings, people tend to follow Jesus. There's no greater compliment.

Several of us were asked to roast Maureen, but couldn't think of any weaknesses we could kid her about. I think she may just be one of those angels the author of Hebrews wrote about that lives quietly among us to point us to God. I cried as I heard her and Greg's daughter eulogize her mom. There is no greater honor than for a daughter to desire to be exactly like her mom. (And Jessica is acheiving her aspirations!) Happy Birthday Maureen. We do love you and we really believe that you are only 40!

Hope for tomorrow

One of the saddest verses in the Bible is found in the book of Judges. It says that the new generation, after Joshua died, did not know the Lord. Joshua had been one of the greatest Bible heroes, but for whatever reason he did not teach his followers to pass on the Faith of our Fathers. A new generation grew up in relative peace, but with no knowledge of God. It isn't hard to guess how quickly they fell off the path into very dire circumstances.

I feel at my new age that one of my highest privileges is to pass on what I've learned to the new kids on the block. The older I get the more I am cognisant of the reality of the brevity of life. That's why I took more than half of my week to teach this bright group of young adults about how to grow a healthy church. These 8 men and women are all in their last year(s) of Pacific Life Bible College, and most of them are already serving as Children's or Youth pastors in their local churches. We had a fun time Monday through Friday leatrning why some churches continue growing while most others have put a lid on growth. I pray for continued enthusiasm and wisdom as each of them passionately pursue God's best intentions.

Happy Anniversary

Today (Wednesday - February 28) is Susan’s and my 38^th wedding anniversary. We were attending a friends’ wedding last week-end and were reminiscing with the others who were at our table about our own weddings.
Susan and I were married in February of 1969 largely because from the time she was a pre-teen, Susan had had her wedding thoroughly planned. She’d always imagined that her bridesmaids would be wearing red velvet dresses and come down the aisle of our church with white fur muffs on. She had the flowers chosen, the decorations preset, certain love songs to be sung on cue—all she needed was a guy to stand in the groom’s spot. Thankfully, that was me!

We first met in church. (That’s a great place to meet your prospective spouse.) She was a very mature 14 year old and I was a slowly budding 19 year old. A year later we had our first date. (I was so nervous that I had written a note listing several things that we could talk about—thankfully Susan was a good talker and I was a good listener!) A year after that we were engaged, and the following year we were married. Even though we were young, we knew that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together--so why wait?

Here we are, 38 years, two children and six grandchildren later, and even more delighted than ever with the choice we both made. People have asked me, “What is the secret to a long and happy marriage!”

One day I’ll write a book about that important subject, but I can summarize it in the same three words we use to describe our church motto—knowing, growing and sowing.

In the church, the secret of success is our knowing God, growing in maturity by doing what we were created to do (like an apple tree that grows apples, a sheep who produces wool and a cow that makes milk, a successful person fulfills the purpose he was created by God to fulfill) and finally sowing, or giving away what we produce.

In marriage it’s very similar. It begins by getting to really know one another. It’s not about me—rather, it’s about the one I married. Who is she? What are her needs? What is her purpose? What fulfills her? The answers come to the man or woman who sincerely listens to their spouse.

Secondly, a healthy marriage continues by growing together. Don’t wish away your days by longing for the past or the future. Enjoy who you and she are today. We are constantly changing. A young married couple with no money, but with lots of hopes and dreams is a very different person than the 35 year old with a young family, too much work to do and a demanding mortgage.

The challenges of each phase of life are what press us out of our comfort zone into growth and maturity. Enjoy each decade for what it brings.

And finally¸ sow generously. True fulfillment comes through giving. “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Give love, time and encouragement (whatever the moment calls for) generously. Don’t stop giving sacrificially to your wife—but expand your giving beyond your own family as you age. As the Psalmist wrote, “True happiness will follow a cup (life) that is not only full, but runs over to add to the fullness of others around him.”

Three little magic words – know, grow and sow will add wonder and happiness to our marriage relationships.

Angels all around us

Tomorrow in church I'll continue pulling back the curtains on the unseen world that God calls the heavenly places. We'll look at some of the zillions of angels that God has created to serve him and us. Someone asked me this week if we'll become angels when we die. The answer is "no". In truth, human beings are a higher order than angels are. They have been created by God as servants to minister to us. The author of Hebrews calls them "Ministering spirits".

I guess we could write a book on angels, but in brief there are a few different types mentioned in the Bible. The highest order of angels are called cherubim. Lucifer used to be the lead cherub before his fall, but there are at least 4 others who surround the throne of God. They are awesome creatures that Ezekiel describes by using terms such as "full of eyes" and "wheels inside of wheels". Jewish legends tell of their being 30 feet tall!

Then there is at least 1 Arch-Angel, whose name is Michael. His main job seems to be as the guardian of the Jewish people. Gabriel is the only other angel mentioned by name. He's the announcing angel, who with his trumpet and loud voice, makes proclamations for God. Seraphims seem to fall in line next . Isaiah describes them as having 6 wings and standing near to the holy presence of God.

Finally there are the millions times millions of angels who are encamped invisibly around every human. It seems we all have some who walk and ride with us every day. The Bible does not describe them, does not say they have wings, but does tell us that they can take on human form. Many of us have seen them and talked with them without even knowing it. Whenever they are seen in the Bible stories they are described as looking like men.

Alive and well

Don't you love it when you go for a physical check-up and the doctor gives you a good report! I do too. But I also love it when I put a stethascope to the body of Christ and I hear sounds of a healthy heart beat. Just in these past 2 days I've heard many stories which tell me the church is alive and well. I got so excited by a couple of testimonies today that I decided it would be good to publish a Good News Paper consisting of stories of how God loves to do good things for us. Keep your eye out for good reports and let me know so we can publish them, and then watch for our first issue.

Yesterday I was at the church, and came across 2 small groups of people praying for each other. I love that and so does our Father. I know its just a small reflection of all the prayer that's happening throughout the week. Then I saw another of our young adults teaching worship through dance to an enthusiastic group of young women. I didn't know we had a dance team, but I did suggest that they dance for God some Sunday morning soon. Then as I went to my car I met another man, who'd stopped by the food bank to pick up some sweets. He told me that daily he goes down to the front of PoCo City Hall to meet with street people. Up to a dozen come to him every day and receive Starbucks coupons and a treat. I left the church feeling so good about the life that is eminating from the Body-- what a treat it is for me to serve this living church!

Winter Wonderland

One of the most priceless gifts that anyone can have on earth is good friends. Susan and I thank God for his generosity in giving people such as Vern and Diane to add joy to our lives. This week we were invited, for my birthday, to join our dear friends up at their home on Big White Mountain. This has got to be one of the most beautiful havens in our magnificent province. We're not skiiers, or much else that involves too much energy, but there are tons of things to do on the snow-capped paradise.

I snapped a couple of pictures to share with any who care (not to make you envious, but to give due honor to our genius Creator) One is of the trees and snow, another of "snow ghosts", that appear as a result of snow icing the trees, and the 3rd of a couple of very beautiful snow bunnies whom I managed to get to pose for me (Susan and Diane if you didn't recognize them in their duds)

Count the stars

Today I've been preparing my sermon for Sunday. I work on a year at a time to determine where I am leading the church, but then each week I decide on Wednesday how much of the big picture I will unveil. On Saturday I nail my message down and add illustrations and an application. My message for this week is a huge concept-- We're opening up the invisible realm to peek inside and see the things that God is planning for the Church. Wow! I'm overwhelmed!

The thought that came to me which I'll use in my introduction was the scene when Jesus and Abraham were talking about God's plans for his future family. All Abraham could see was that he had no son. In his mind he was asking, "How can God even suggest that He has plans for my family when my wife can't even give me a child!" That was as far as he could see.

Jesus was not frustrated by Abraham's short-sightedness. He simply took him outside and told him to look at the stars. At that time Abe would have seen about 5000 stars with his naked eyes (no pollution!) Jesus said to him "Your spiritual descendants will be as many as the stars of the heavens!" Abraham must have said "Wow, I was thinking far too small, but now I understand!"

Wrong Abraham! He may have seen 5000 stars but the fact was that there are at least 3 thousand, million, billion stars. (That's a 3 with 16 zeroes) Like Father Abraham, we think we've got a picture of what life is all about, but we way under-estimate the dimensions of God's plans. As Paul wrote "Eyes have not seen nor has ear heard the things that God has prepared for those who love Him." Now do you see the dilemma that I face tomorrow as I attempt to pull back the veil on God's plans for us? It's going to be a fun challenge.

PLBC Banquet

I was so impressed with my Alma Mater on Saturday evening when Susan and I went to the annual Valentines Banquet. We've come a long ways baby! I graduated with about 5 other young adults back in 1971 from what is now known as Pacific Life Bible College. Although I think I got a pretty good education, compared to todays school and student body we were pretty unsophistocated. The students that performed in music and drama were both talented and hilariously funny. We were well entertained.

And the food was awesome. Thanks to the staff and students for a wonderfully romantic Valentine celebration. This picture is of the couple who won the best dress-up prize. Believe me it wasn't fixed, but this handsome couple just happen to be my nephew Randall and his wife Suzanne. The theme of the evening was Hawaii so we all were asked to come in our vacation clothes.

The kicker was that if we bought a $10.00 rose for our sweetheart, we had a chance to have our name drawn for a hundred dollar dinner out. I realize that my brother is the President of the Bible College, but again, just because Susan and I won the big prize doesn't mean that the winners were predetermined!

I was a bad boy

That's what the lady behind the counter at the passport office told me this week. Susan and I got my passport application filled out and signed, had my pictures taken and then we quickly drove out to the Surrey Passport Office to get in the long line-up. After 3 1/2 hours of patient waiting, I finally got up to the nice lady behind the booth. She looked over my meticulously filled out documents and asked, "Where are your tickets?" She went on to explain that I could not have my passport extended without tickets in hand. I would have go home, purchase tickets and return another day!

So home we went. The problem was that I have had a few problems with my passports. Two have gone through the wash and one was stolen during our trip to Spain last year. The government saw me with my record of loss as some kind of a terrorist, so they would only issue me a passport for one year at a time. Then you can only travel to a foreign destination if you have 6 months left on your passport. W e are planning to be away about 3 times in the next few months so Susan ordered tickets for all 3 trips.

Tickets in hand I returned to the Passport office on Wednesday morning. After waiting in line again, I stood before another stern-faced clerk. She looked over my records, first of all handed me back my application and pictures, saying "You don't need these!", and then she said very seriously, "You are a bad boy. You'll be very lucky if they even renew your passport. I'm taking your passport and you probably won't get it back till June."

I left the building head hanging in shame, without my passport to freedom. I should never have gone there in the first place. I guess I'll be home for a while.

Staff/Council Summit

There were about 30 of us who set aside this one day to be inspired, stimulated and encouraged by God in Northside's Annual Staff/Council Summit meeting. Our staff meets regularly to talk and pray about the vision, plans and programs of the church; and our 9 member council meet monthly to think together about the facilities and finances. Then, of course we all do our own things over the days in between-- but every-time I hear all the good stuff that's going on I wish we could all have the benefit and joy that we who are present get to have. So that is the reason we spend this important day together.

After I shared some of my own vision and thoughts, Pastor Rebecca spent an hour or so teaching some invaluable leadership/followership principles. I was amazed at how much we learned together about vision, planning and shifting with the culture of our day. Once again I was wishing that all 500 or so of our workers and volunteers could have been there. Finally, before lunch we broke into small groups of matching interests and analysed our ministies, what are we doing well and how could we do better?

At lunch, served by a very gracious family of godly servants, Pastor Gord surprised me with a birthday card and gift from the group, and a delicious birthday cake. It could not have been a better or more profitable way to spend our day. I left there brimming with Godly pride in our church family and humility regarding the assignment we have been entrusted with.

Masters Commission

I've had a fun time these last 2 days doing what I love to do. The Masters Commission is a hands- on discipleship and ministry training program that runs alongside our Pacific Life Bible College. At least a couple of our Canadian Foursquare churches offer this intense practical program. Students usually board with church families, take intensive courses, while at the same time doing a whole variety of practical ministries in the church. It's a very worthwhile 1 to 3 years, much like Jesus put his own 12 disciples through.

My assignment has been to teach the entire Old Testament in 3 days. I couldn't imagine a better or more fun thing to do, but what made it even more enjoyable for me was this particular group of enthusiastic young adults. The students were from Canada, Guatamela, USA and as far away as Brazil. What a delight I've had getting to know them. I will try to finish the rest of the OT next Thursday.

Kristy moves up another year

It's amazing to me how fast time flies by--it accelerates as we zip through each decade. Our second daughter Kristy turns 34 this week. Wasn't it just last week that we brought her home from the hospital. Kelly was only 15 months old at the time and she had no intentions of sleeping through the night. What were we going to do with two of them? I said to Susan at the time "If you take care of Kristy at night, I'll handle Kelly." What a mistake that was! Kristy slept through the night almost immediately, while Kelly demanded my attention for months to come!

Kristy was a delight to raise; a little challenging from about 11 to 15, but a breeze after that! She completed Grade 10 piano as a young girl, taught up to 52 students music, while attending university full time; paid all of her own way, and graduated by 22 with a teaching degree. She married her childhood sweetheart, Jeremy, that year and they've been happily maturing since then.

Now 12 years and 3 children later, Kristy not only is a mom, teaches at school and is the President of our 60 student Wee College, but she also serves as Lay pastor of our Kids Church, Nursery to Primary ministry. Wow, I'm tired thinking about it! And besides all that she is one of the two best daughters in the world!

Yesterday after church our family celebrated both, her and their 3rd child, Jordan's birthdays. Because Jordy is one of my helpers in any building projects I undertake, Susan and I bought him a tool box and many real tools (at 3 he's ready to graduate from his plastic tools--but I am a little worried about this hammer and their glass coffee table!) "Kristy and Jordan, my prayer is that both of you will continue to walk and work in the sunshine of God's love and in the protection of his strength!" Happy birthday.

We're going to Israel

One of my life-long dreams has been to go to Israel. I've been teaching the Bible stories for over 40 years, have been describing the sights, smells, sounds and feel of the land over and over, but Susan and I have never been there.

This last year Jack Hayford announced that our International Foursquare Convention would be held in Israel, so I suggested to my beautiful wife that we try to go. And that was when the fighting started--in Israel that is. All summer the missles sailed back and forth between enemies. It was in October, when the battle subsided, that Pastor Jack reaffirmed that the Convention was still on, with a money back guarantee if we can't go because of imminent danger.

The dates of the actual Convention are July 22 to 25, 2007. But there is a choice of 5 tour options in the package. If you are interested in joining us on a tour (ours will go from July 19 to July 29) please call the church for info and registration forms. Juliet Martinson has offered to help with the dispensing of any information. Her number is 604 461 2670. All who want to join Susan and I on our tour are welcome to, or you can make your own plans. Whatever way, we are going to have a memorable walk down some of the same trails as Jesus walked 2000 years ago.

Miracles

It's not often that we see genuine miracles face to face. Or maybe we just don't recognize them when we do, but this week I witnessed at least 3!

On Tuesday night I was invited by Alpha Canada to do some videoing for an Alpha commercial they are putting together for churches in Canada. A generous donor had given a significant amount of money to do some necessary promotion, so a film crew were hired from Toronto to travel across the country taping testimonies of what Alpha has meant to them. We had gathered 3 young men, at the church, and then there was me.

When I finished my interview, I sat and listened to the 3 guys tell their stories. Wow! What an inspiration to hear! Fatty is an Indian by family and raised in the Sikh culture and religion, but had strayed into the grip of alcoholism and drugs. His boss attends our church and because I was teaching on the 12 steps, asked him to come to church with him and his family. Fatty came, was deeply affected by the services and quickly enrolled in the Alpha program which was just beginning. He told how welcome he'd felt, how he quickly responded to the Gospel, received the Holy Spirit's fulness and has seen miracle change in his life. He's been freed from addictions, his marriage has been renewed and he has an obvious joy that he cannot keep to himself! He now attends an Indian fellowship in Abbotsford.

Cam is only 17. No one in his family has ever attended church or talked about God, but when his friend Jordan invited him to Alpha to sit at a Youth table, he said "yes". A year later with a huge grin on his face, Cam told how he received Jesus, has invited his friends to church, teaches Kids Church, and co-leads a youth Alpha table. I've marked this kid for Bible School; he's a rising Pastor!

I loved listening to Carl. Neither I nor the others who were listening, could hold back the tears as he described his journey from atheism to evangelism. His wife, who had just finished Alpha herself and had become a believer, challenged Carl, "How can you say you're an Atheist when you don't even know what Christians believe?" With that Carl came to Alpha and a few weeks into it, became a deeply committed Christian. I had the privilege of baptising him a few weeks later. A week after his baptism Carl was serving as an usher and I remarked how great it was to see him serving. With that, he joked that in a few weeks he'd be after my job! I loved it.

Thank God for Alpha and our dozens of enthusiastic leaders and workers!

Life Plan

I get several people, often young, who come to me for counsel concerning the direction of their lives. Usually it's not that there are a lot of problems in their day to day journeys, but more that they don't have direction for the future. When we don't know where we are going, we don't usually make any progress in life. We tend to look back after several years and find ourselves in the same place we were 10 years earlier. When that is the case, we don't feel the fulfillment or the happiness that God intended us to feel.

As a result of many such counselling sessions over the past years, I decided that I would write and publish a workbook called Life Plan. While I was away in Asia last month I did most of the writing, and now this week , with the help of Linda and Jessica I 'm ready to publish the material. I've included in this blog a write-up from the back page and a picture of the cover.

Jordy's Birthday

Jordan is the youngest of our six grandchildren. After Alex and Jacob were born within a week of each other 8 years ago, the kids kept coming. Madeline followed on the first boys heels and then Maxwell came along in the same year. Victoria was born next. She will turn 5 in 2007 and will begin kindergarten in September. When Jordan was born 3 years ago, our daughters told us that he would be the last of the pack.

Because Jordy was a January baby, he won't be able to start school for 2 1/2 years. This is the last of a lot of regular babysitting for Susan, so she's desparately hoping the great grandchildren will come along soon! Because Jordy is the last of the lot and was born some time after Victoria, I think he and I have had more personal time together. He is a helper by nature and loves to bring out his plastic tool kit, donne his goggles, put on his hard hat and work beside me. We've finished several signifigant projects together, and still have a couple of good years before he gets bogged down by 17 years of schooling.

On Sunday Kristy invited several of his church friends over for a Diego Birthday Party. What a delight to see their many friends, adults and kids, socializing together! For a while the group was a bit overwhelming to Jordan and he retreated to the back room to watch Dora and Diego. After a while he came and joined the party, blew out the candles and opened his presents. That party will have to be the last for a while. Our next family birthday doesn't come until next week when his mom crosses another year marker!

Saying Goodbye

It’s okay—He’s ready to go, but still the process of saying goodbye is sad and difficult.

My dad has been a wonderful role-model for the six children he fathered, plus the two whom he inherited when our mom died and he remarried forty years ago. He’s been one of those men who has few regrets when it comes to family—he successfully passed the baton to us adult kids, our 18 children and 27 grandchildren.

A couple of days ago, Susan and I went to visit dad in the hospital. The doctors have given him 1-2 months to live, but we were surprised how good he looked and how chipper his attitude was. Susan took mom out for coffee while my brother and I talked with dad, knowing it could be our last visit on earth. I asked my dad some pretty pointed questions. (I am often surprised how few people address the real issues of life and death head0on with loved ones who are dying).

I asked him how he felt about dying, and although he was, of course, sad to leave mom and his family, he said he was ready to go. My dad has, for as long as I can remember had a strong relationship with God, so he has always known that he will end up in heaven.

We talked about the other four issues that everyone should face before we die—“Thank You”, “I’m sorry”, “I forgive you” and “I love you”. It was surprising to both me and my brother what memories dad had where he felt he’d failed or disappointed us. He talked about little incidents that had happened 40 or more years ago, when he thought that he’d let us down, or said something inappropriate. Most of them we didn’t even remember, but it was good for dad to clean out the closet of his memories.

He talked about how much he loved our mom, who gave birth to us and poured her life in to us six kids. Mom died when she was only 42, so she didn’t get the privilege of watching us all move into adulthood. He was wondering if she’d be 42 in heaven and he’d be 89—and if she would know him. Then he questioned me about eventually meeting both of his wives in heaven. We laughed together and decided that God would figure it all out.

For me, the most emotional part of our visit was not listening to dad’s memories, but our telling him how much we loved and honored him as a father. As Rob and I recounted the many attributes and successes of our dad, thanked him for clearly showing us how to be men, to walk on the right path, and be loving husbands and fathers, I could hardly hold back my emotions.

After our hugs and goodbyes to dad, we prayed with him and left. It was good. We’re so thankful for the gift of this window of time to say what had to be said.

Ode to Papa

In light of my fast approaching birthday, here is a sobering thought.

How old is Grandpa?
Stay with this--the answer is at the end. It will blow you away.

One evening a a grandson was talking to his grandpa about current events. The grandson asked his grandpa what he thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general.

The Grandpa replied, well, let me think a minute, I was born before:

television
penicillin
polio shots
frozen foods
Xerox
contact lenses
Frisbees
The pill

There were no:
credit cards
laser beams
ball point pens

Man had not invented:
pantyhose
air conditioners
dishwashers
clothes dryers (the clothes were hung outside in the fresh air)
man hadn't yet walked on the moon.

Your Grandma and I got married first...and then lived together.
Every family had a Father and a Mother
Until I was 25, I called every man older than me "Sir"
And after I turned 25, I still called poilicmen and every man with a title "Sir".
We were before gay-rights, computer dating, dual careers, daycare centers and group therapy.
Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense.
We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.
Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege.
We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent.
Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins.
Draft dodgers were people who closed their front doors when the evening breeze started.
Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends--not purchasing condominiums.
We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CDs, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings.
We listened to the Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios. I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey!
If you saw anything with 'made in Japan' on it, it was junk.
The term 'making out' refereed to how you did on your school exam.
Pizza Hut, McDonald's and instant coffee were unheard of.
We had 5 & 10 cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents.
Ice Cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel.
If you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards.
You could buy a new Chevy Coupe for $600.00, but who could afford one?
Too bad, because gas was just 11 cents a gallon.

In my day:
'grass was mowed'
'coke' was a cold drink
'pot' was something your mother cook in
'rock' music was your grandmother's lullaby
'Aids' were helpers in the principal's office
'chip' meant a piece of wood
'hardware' was found in a hardware store
'software' wasn't even a word.

And we were the last generation to actually believe that a woman needed a husband to have a baby. No wonder people call us "old and confused" and say there is a generation gap...and how old do you think I am?






This man would be only 59 years old!!!!

Foursquare Gospel Church of Canada

Tim and Laurene Peterson have served as President and First Lady of our Denomination over these past 15 years. We, at Northside, have been privileged to serve as their church family during the years that they have given oversight and care to the churches from Vancouver Island to the Atlantic.

I've had several occasions to travel with Tim to various regions to meet prospective pastors, and to provide care and teaching. I can truthfully say that I have never met a man so much like Nathanael, whom Jesus thoughtfully described as being "a man without guile". Tim is a picture of grace and love. Both Tim and Laurene have worked far beyond the call of duty in administration, Shepherding pastors and communication. We have a very large country, and to help facilitate the oversight, they have done superb job of creating specialized teams of capable men and women to share the load with them.

This year, 2007, Tim and Laurene are retiring from the Presidency. For some time, a transition team has been working at the process of choosing the next leader who will receive the torch from Tim and carry it into the next decade. There are many factors to consider in such a transfer of authority to make it flow smoothly , so it is expedient that we who serve under our leadership pray for wisdom for our National Board . In our Fourquare system, all churches had the privilege of nominating candidates, but the final choice, under God's direction, comes from a leadership board of 8 men and women from across Canada. God bless them, and give them wisdom and clarity in their final discussions and decision. And God bless Tim and Laurene as they are promoted to a new phase of ministry, wherever it may lead them!

Madeline turns Seven

Our millenium Grandbaby turned 7 on Saturday! Jeremy's and Kristy's 2nd child, Madeline, is now thriving in grade 1 (in the same class as her cousin Max) , is already starting to lose her baby teeth, and is showing signs of being a very mature young princess. Madeline was partied out this week-end with girlfriends from both school and church, in addition to our weekly family get-together, but she handled it with grace and thankfulness.

From the time Madeline was a baby, she has demonstrated a motivational gift of encouragement. It's very unusual for a child to be so generous and thoughtful of others. Of course she, like all of us has her flashes of selfishness, but Madeline is always very conscious of how others in the room are doing. Some of that comes from the modelling of her mom, but a lot of who she is has been a God initiated gift.

As both her pastor and her papa, I pray that" God will protect Madeline from harm and negative influences in this pivotal year of her life, and will shepherd her down the right path that He has uniquely prepared for her. Help her parents and teachers be wise in the discipling of their precious gift."

Every year Susan buys Madeline and Victoria a china doll with her age on it. This picture is of her opening doll #7. They sit on her dresser as a reminder of how much she has grown and of the plans that God has for her full maturity.

Northside Church 2007

It's hard to believe that another year has passed. The time seems to accelerate as we get older. I have a pretty strong feeling that this year is going to be a good one for our church family. As I've often stated, I plan my life in 7 year phases and do the same for our church. In May, we move into our 5th 7 year stretch. Over the first 7 years, we focussed on community ( developing a strong core of loving members), then in 1986 we turned an important corner and focussed on corporation (that phase included developing an administration system, strengthening our staff and building our 2 campuses).

In 1993, we turned our focus sharply outside of ourselves and concentrated on what we called cause. In the millenial year, 2000, we felt that we were at a place of health and maturity, so we widened our focus to include 7 priorities: Alpha, Youth, Children, Prayer, Small groups, Missions (which includes our community and overseas) and worship. Giving became, and will continue to be, a strong emphasis. On a personal note, I began writing books in this phase and published 12 of them.

In May of this year, we will be backing up a bit from our emphasis in overseas missions and looking carefully at how we can impact our own nation. I'll write more later, but this phase will include broadening our influence by web, radio, television and publishing, in Canada.

Christmas at our house

With 6 grandchildren running around, Christmas is a pretty exciting season. The celebrations usually begin by us all attending the 6 pm Christmas Eve service at Church, which helps remind us and the kids of our priority of honoring Jesus. Then we come back to Susan's and my home to eat and open their stockings. Here's a picture of the 6 children anxiously anticipating the word "go".



On Christmas morning we all headed to Tom and Kelly's home to eat breakfast of Cinderella waffles and lots of syrup. Jordy always has to have popcorn as his special dessert! After breakfast and a short devotion, we got to open presents. Alex and Madeline both gave us a Christmas recital of the carols they've recently mastered. Victoria received a Ballerina Barbie, so here she is dancing with her doll.








One of the most rewarding parts of our morning was Jacob's gifts that he'd bought for everyone. With his new paper route, he received his first cheque just before Christmas and and chose to spend everything on presents for his family. The picture of him giving his personally chosen gift to grandma shows that this was the highlight of his celebrations. In the afternoon we all kicked back and played with our new toys--Jordy and I got to assemble Kristy and Jeremy's new buffet. And of course Christmas evening was topped off with turkey dinner and home-made apple or pumpkin pie. Thankyou Lord for Jesus and for family! What a delightful day we all enjoyed!

Reflections

I've been busy marking students' papers written for my Pentateuch class this fall, and just came across an excellent description that a young man wrote about the Menora, that was set in the Tabernacle. Of course we all know that the Lampstand represented Jesus, who is the light of the world, but it also is a picture of the Church that reflects His light to the world around us. When we begin to think about reflected light and how many times more effective it becomes by adding more mirrors around it, we can begin to understand how Jesus views each of us--as mirrors who reflect His light to our circle of influence.

I saw that idea illustrated in a conversation I had a couple of days ago. Richard and Theresa Lee had to leave our church about a year ago to return to Pakistan for their business. Theresa was visiting this Christmas and so we had a chance to catch up on what's happening. Although there are no Protestant churches where they live, they have become active in the Roman Catholic Church there. Theresa told me story after story about how they have been able to practise and even pass on principles they have learned in our church to those around them. They have even begun a Bible study, with the Priest's blessing, using the Red Thread Trilogy.
I was so encouraged to see once again that the light we reflect in our neighbourhood, can be reflected halfway around the world. God bless Richard and Theresa!

The secret of Success

People tend to think I'm busier at Christmas than normal (I guess because it's a Christian holiday) but in truth things slow down a bit. People are all busy doing their thing, so they don't give as much time to regular small groups, or to their problems. Please don't tell anybody my little secret.

Because of the extra time that I've got, I've taken off 3 or 4 days to write a book, called The Secret of Success. The book is based on our church philosophy of ministry, which is summarized in the 3 rhyming words Knowing, Growing and Sowing. Not only is this a formula to build a successful church, but also to build a successful life. As a matter of fact I strongly believe that knowing God, growing to maturity in Him and sowing the gifts we've been given, is the only pathway to true success!

I'm writing this book in partnership with my friend and associate pastor, Terry Janzen. It will hopefully be available by next September.

Winter and Susan's Birthday

Can you believe it? Winter arrives on December 21-- and so does another birthday for my darling Susan. She arrived, so I am told, on the morning of an 18 inch snowfall, Her dad had to shovel a block of their street before he could drive mom to the hospital. Thankfully they arrived on time and beautiful Susan Rosemary was born strong and healthy, about 4 years after her big sister Nancy Ann and about 5 years after her future husband.

To celebrate, our family went out to Montana's where the kids can make as much noise as they want. Susan didn't want me to publish the picture of the waiters singing to her with the big moose antlers on her head. Instead I chose this one of Susan, Kelly and Kristy , as well as the 6 kiddies cuddled up to their favorite Nana. On Thursday, we'll celebrate again with a few of our friends.

I'm so thankful to God for his generous gift he has graced me with. Susan has been the perfect match for me. I think I'd be a mite boring to live with, but her excitable and exuberant personality keeps our marriage and family a fun place to be. I love her with all my heart and am looking forward to the next 30+ years that we will (God willing ) have together. Marriage is one of the many best ideas that God ever came up with! Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

Sunday at Northside

December seems to throw a bit of a curve in our regular church schedule, but it's a good curve!
On the 2nd week we enjoyed our children's play and choir and on this last week we loved our church choir's presentation.

Wow! What a gift that music is to the church. I couldn't get over the quality of talent and the willingness to share it that our church has. Maureen Reid has been leading our choir as they have practised over the past few months--I suspect that there is as much fulfillment in the friendship of the group as there is in the presentation of their music. The choir sang for our Saturday evening service as well as 3 times on Sunday morning. They really had to hustle to make the hop back and forth between the 2 campuses. And it was worth it all. Thank you Lord, and thank you choir for your gracious gift.

Enjoy My Books and Pay Less This Month

Use this coupon at one of the Retail Stores listed on my website, www.barrybuzza.com or automatically purchase anyone of my books on my website throughout the month of December at 15% off.

Christmas lights

I love the decorations and lights that brighten our rainy community at Christmas. They are shining witnesses to the light of the world who shines through his church to the world around us. Today Jordan helped me put up lights around our home.

Christmas Generosity

I love people like Ed and Joanne Spence! What an honor it is to serve beside them. Ed was placed on the front page of the Tri-City News this week with a very glowing article giving tribute to the hundreds of homeless people he has fed over the last several years simply by saving bottles and trading their value for food. Thank God for unselfish and thoughtful Christians in our community who let their lights shine not only at Christmas but all year. We're so privileged to have Ed and Joanne and their daughter as part of our church family!

Christmas celebrations

It's been a fun Christmasy week-end for Susan and me. Besides the regular home and church things that we usually do, we had opportunity to celebrate a few special things. On Thursday evening, Susan and the girls went to our annual Women's Celebration, while I got to take my four grandsons out for dinner at Burger King. Then on Friday evening Dave and Carol and we went to the Singing Christmas Tree program at Broadway Church.

I've been so impressed by the consistent influence Broadway Church has had in our metropolis for the last 60 years or so. They have been like a spiritual anchor in a city that has tended to drift toward secularism. I applaud their consistent witness and their generosity in freely and elaborately opening their doors to a very diverse population. Blessings to our friends at Broadway, and thank-you for a very classy and moving presentation of the Gospel. Of course my niece Dianna Smith was the real star performer!

On Saturday, Susan and I were invited to our dear friend, Jim Douglas's 65th Birthday Party. It's hard to believe that we have friends that are so old! Jim and Sharon have been pillars in our church and also Kingsway Foursquare Church for their entire lives. How I value Strong Christlike families--you can easily see their faithfulness because it is modelled in the 2 generations that they've successfully passed the torch to. Both of them have also been teachers at Pacific Academy since its beginnings and so have positively influenced thousands of kids. Thank you Lord for godly pillars. May the Douglas tribe continue to be blessed for generations!

We had a great Christmas Celebration at our 4 services this week-end. The hundreds of children that we've been entrusted with put on a wonderful musical program. Afterwards we were invited to our Granddaughter's birthday party. Victoria turns 4 on Monday so Tom and Kelly invited a few of her friends and their parents for a Birthday lunch and skating party.