…that means thousands of people will be filing tax returns by midnight tonight or filing an extension. No one likes to pay taxes, or at least I have not met him. However, if we are going to have local, state and national government the citizens must support it with dollars. Tax rates are always up for debate. But today I suggest you be grateful for America. When my check goes in the mail this afternoon I realize there are some things my money goes toward that do not please me. But there are others for which I have deep feelings. The young men and women around the world in our military are deserving of our support. There are many needy people that receive assistance through federal aid. The social security plan provides a check for my parents and mother-in-law. Remember to render to Caesar the things that are his and render to God that which belongs to Him. 

  

In the month of May the federal government will begin to mail checks from the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act. This provides a onetime payment to qualified individuals and families. Those married filing jointly will find the payments reduced or phased out if you make over $150,000 AIG. For those under the line you will receive $600 for individuals or $1200 for a couple. Many have said to me they think this idea is stupid because the government should not be giving back during these tough economic days in America. However, the check will arrive in your mailbox and it is yours to do with as you will. If you really do not want it I suggest you sign it over to the Ministry Village of Olive Baptist Church. We will stimulate the local economy with it as we build the infrastructure for the Village. 

  

It is Tax Day. Rejoice! America is still the best place in the world to live and millions around the world long to get in. The door to get out is always open but very few take that option. I like it here. 

Pastor Ted Traylor 

 

 

 

 

Monday through Wednesday of this week I had the privilege of being in Orlando with 60 other pastors at a wonderful gathering of leaders from across America. We came together for fellowship, inspiration and to learn from one another. It was a very helpful meeting. One of the segments of the event focused on the “Millennial Generation.” These are the 12-25 year olds in our world born between 1983 and 1995. They are currently the largest segment of our population. One fact that jumped out at me was that by the time we elect a President in 2012 they will make up one third of the electorate. And it does not take a rocket scientist to see who is attracting them in this current election.

The question is how do we reach these young people and how do we shape them for the future? The church must change or die. These people have desires for the church. They are looking for authentic believers who do more than talk. They want to see the church live out her faith and make a difference in the world. Conventions like the SBC and churches like Olive must dig out clutter and engage the world through ministry if we are to catch the attention of this generation. Here at Olive I am amazed at the intense excitement from our young congregants regarding the Ministry Village. I never had them on my mind when we launched down this road. Thank God HE is leading and protecting for the future.

What does a “millennial” need from us right now? At least four things are imperative.

1. Mentors- Someone to come alongside this group and show the way one-on-one. They long for relationships.

2. Models- As I said earlier they look for authenticity. Don’t just say it – live it!

3. Motivation- This calls for inspiration in up-to-date ways. Technology is huge.

4. Monitors- Yes, these young people need others to direct and guide them. They really do not have all the answers, even though sometimes they believe they do. Earn the right to monitor them and you earn their respect so that you may speak truth into their lives.

Below are pictures of our mission team in Cleveland, Ohio. Earlier this month we engaged some of the millennials in that area of the country through ministry and evangelism. If we are faithful to minister, God will bring the harvest.

The men leading our middle school, high school and college ministries could use your help. It is not long until 2012. Love a young person TODAY!

Pastor Ted Traylor

I am here in Orlando for a few days this week attending a Pastors Conference.

Continue to pray for our 2020 Vision work. We are grateful for those who have already given and/or pledged to give to help us grow our Ministry Village. Remember to continue to pray for God’s discernment for your financial commitment to our work ahead. May 4th is the day we are looking forward to all together making our commitments to these specific future ministry plans right here on our campus

Check back with me Friday for more updates.

Pastor Ted Traylor

I have a habit of walking around in bookstores like Barnes and Noble to look at what the world is reading. It is always an interesting stroll and often I purchase a book that catches my eye. A few days ago I picked up It’s Your Ship by Captain Michael Abrashoff. In it he outlines the management techniques he utilized to lead the USS Benfold to become one of the best ships in the Navy. In this book he fleshes out some great common sense principles for leadership and management. While I have never served in the military this read gave me a new appreciation for those who do. If you have ever served in the Navy I bet you will enjoy the book. If you are a leader of people you will find it helpful.
 
Pensacola is a Navy town. We often call it the Cradle of Naval Aviation. If you are going to fly for the Navy you are coming through Pensacola. John McCain reminded us of that on Wednesday when the Presidential candidate was back in town.
 
Later today I will be at NAS Pensacola for a burial service at Barrancas National Cemetery. The long precise rows of grave markers are silent reminders of those who have served our nation in days gone by. As a nation today involved in war we need to be grateful and prayerful for those who serve us in the military. Memorial Day Weekend is just two months away and I have invited Chaplain Randy Nash to be our preacher that morning. He is one of our own Southern Baptist commissioned chaplains. You will be thrilled when you hear him.
 
Abrashoff says,” It’s your ship.”  I would say to you,” It’s your home, it’s your church.” The Captain sought to get every member of his crew to take ownership. As we do that here at Olive, we will continue to have a great church. All aboard!

Pastor Ted Traylor

In my Bible time this morning I read Psalm 73:28. “It is good to be near God.” That is the truth. I have walked away from the Lord at times in my life and that is never good. The nearness of God is a good thing. I encourage you to draw near to Him today. How does one do that?
 
1. Confirm your salvation
 
2. Slow down and talk to God
 
3. Confess your sins
 
4. Read the Word
 
5. Be a servant to someone today
 
It is April 1. Some call it April Fool’s Day and have fun at the expense of others. The Bible has its own warning to the foolish – a fool has said in his heart there is no God. Don’t act like a fool and go at life alone. Practical atheism ignores God in the everyday affairs of life. He is alive. Draw near to him.
 
Liz and I have been hard at work getting our house ready to go on the market. We are in the seller’s game today. This morning I prayed for God to send us a buyer in His time. He is in charge of every aspect of our lives. I ask you to pray with me about this issue. If you meet someone needing a home send them our way. 
 
Have a great day. And draw near to the Lord. That is a good thing!

Pastor Ted Traylor