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Mike Furches

Last Updated: 11/18/2009

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City: WICHITA
Country: US
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December 13, 2009 - Sunday

Santa Visits The Homeless
Current mood:

hopeful
Category: Religion and Philosophy

The following can be seen at Hollywood Jesus and the following url in a different format: http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2009/12/santa-visits-homeless.html

Santa Visits The Homeless

As I stand there as Santa going HO HO HO, and waving at the passers by at the downtown Library, there is a lady sitting on a bench smiling and waving at me. I leave some of the kids and walk over to the small lady who looks unusually out of place. This is after all a place where the homeless congregate through the day. Next to her is a man in layered clothing, a stocking cap, looking me in the eyes, swearing he has seen me someplace before and telling me that he knows me. He takes off his stocking cap to reveal his balding head and asks me if I think he looks familiar. I smile, “I haven’t seen you since you were a little boy.” As I laugh, he responds in all sincerity, “No, I know you from some place.”

The lady sitting next to him on the bench is dressed in nice clothes; she has on rather expensive fur covered boots. Her designer stocking cap reveals she has had money. It is clean enough that it is clear that she has had some income recently. Her nails are done up quite nicely, they are bright red and covered in snowflake decorations. It is clear, they were professionally done. She is smiling now, she has nice, clean, well kept, teeth, and I later find out that she has only been on the streets for a few days. She is scared; she knows she is in a dangerous place. Ken, the man with her has kind of adopted her to keep her safe. It seems as if Nancy was recently had some bad things happen to her that wasn’t all her fought, yet, she suffers the consequences of a bad economy bad luck, and of having no one to help her in this time of crises. Nancy looks to be in her early to mid fifties. She has maintained her age, but the few days she has been on the streets have already started to weigh on her, not just her looks though, but her spirit.

Ken asks Nancy, “Do you want to tell Santa what you want for Christmas?” Nancy simply responds with a smile and motions with her finger for me to come close to her. She wants me to give her a kiss on the cheek, so I do. She then whispers in my ear, ‘Santa, I just want a better life and for people to respect me.” I am ready to cry; I pull a way, keep it together and start to speak. Nancy takes her finger and puts it up next to her nose as she starts to cry, she whispers, “shhhh.” I know her wish is between her, me, and God.

I see another man come by on his bicycle. He is a lucky one because some punk(s) in town have been stealing bicycles from the homeless. It is why several of them have requested that someone consider giving them measured cuts of chain with a lock. It will help them keep their bicycles. Some of the men I speak to today have stated that they are walking as much as 15 miles a day. So much for the idea that the homeless being lazy. I ask this man if he wants a cup of coffee. He gladly accepts. Who knew that an inexpensive cup of coffee would go so far as to show a human being that they are cared for and loved? I ask him if he wants any food. I can tell he wants it, but he is too embarrassed to take it. There are about around 10 cans of food in the bag, a box of crackers, simple things. I ask him if he would like a backpack. He is more inclined to jump at the offer. I then ask him; “Why don’t you just take the food with the backpack?” He gladly accepts then, knowing that he can at least now carry the food, plus other things that he needs. He isn’t unlike others, all of our backpacks and gloves were quick to go along with around 40 or so coats and sweaters. That was about half of what we started with, and with each one there was a story, a life, a human being who wants to feel loved and cared for at Christmas.

I was amazed at how open many of the individuals I came into contact with today were far more open to going up to Santa than they were a regular person. Many still believe, not in the myth, but the concept. They all asked for simple things, things many of us take for granted. The asked for things like, a place to spend the night, a warm winter, a job, a better economy, that the children could have a good Christmas since so many people were out of work.

Several men walk over toward where Chris, Adam, and the two Mary’s are serving coffee. They see Santa over waving at the cars, two of them garnish huge smiles, they ask for a hug. “Santa, thanks for coming to see us,” one of them says with a big smile on across his face. He doesn’t have clean teeth; after all, he doesn’t have any real way of keeping them clean. Seems this man has been homeless for awhile, he is lucky, he and several other homeless people actually have a friend they are crashing with. I ask him if he wants a coat. He quickly picks out a small brown corduroy coat; it isn’t quite big enough for him and is used. We talk awhile; before long he is calling me Pastor Mike instead of Santa, in fact, most everyone is now calling Santa, Pastor Mike. I have to remind them, “Today, I am Santa. Tomorrow I am Pastor Mike.” “Okay Pastor Mike, I mean Santa.” They respond with a big grin.

We talk some more, I am told over and over again, “Thank you so much, you have no idea how much we appreciate this.” “What you all are doing is so wonderful.” They say with as much sincerity as any thank you I have heard in a very long time. Charles and I speak for over thirty minutes; on occasion we are stopped by the children running out of the Girl Scout meetings and celebration being held at the Century 2 Civic Center next to the library. They want to have their photos made with Santa, they are thrilled, cars at the busy intersection are blowing their horns waving, and the Trolleys are driving by, every single one of them ringing their bells. Everyone seems to be happy to see Santa, except for the city busses and police officers who drive by. I guess there is some kind of law that these folks, on this day, can’t show too much joy. Charles though, he asks about the church, he can’t believe that anyone would go out of their way to show love like this. I point out to him, “Hey Charles, there is a nice big, brand new coat, would you like that one as I reach down to pick it up.” His eyes get as big as a kid at a candy store. “Wow, look at that, that is a really nice coat, it is brand new.” “Can I have that one?” He asks, “Sure.” I respond. “It’s yours.” He takes off the older coat, and immediately puts it on. “Wow! If I would have had this one earlier in the week when it was below zero I wouldn’t have been so afraid of dying.”

I’m back with Ken and Nancy now, in front of the library at the bench. I am now sitting on the bench with them. Nancy is crying, she gets a phone call on her cell from her mother. Her mother lives out of state; she is worried about this new situation her daughter is in. She asks to speak to me. I tell her mother that I am praying for her, that I really am a pastor. She says to me over the miles: “Thank you so much, this year you really are Santa, just encouraging my daughter is important, to say you love and care for her means so much.” I about tear up, but I hold it together. Ken then tells me, “Pastor Mike, I just want her to be safe, I am concerned. I would normally make up a sign and go panhandle for her, but I hate doing that scam. You know what I am talking about?” I tell him I do. “The streets aren’t a place for a nice lady.” He tells me. My heart breaks. I decide I need to pray for these two. Nancy is still talking on the phone with her mom. “Mom, Santa Pastor Mike is going to pray for me.” Nancy holds the phone up so her mom can hear the prayer I offer as I hug these two human beings created in the image of God.

It isn’t much later and I have to leave. I long, I pray for, I wish I had the property to buy a three story building in downtown Wichita. The first floor, church, then through the week, a place where people in need, the homeless, the abused, the runaway, can come and get services, a place to be safe, warm in the winter, cool in the summer, get some food to snack on, and drinks. We would have computers and wi-fi so these individuals could touch base with others, and then use current technology to do the things the rest of us need to do. The second floor, it would have a place to offer emergency housing for those needing it, in a safe environment where people like Nancy wouldn’t have to be afraid. The third floor, well I would reside there and if large enough find a way to house others who worked with the program. Of course these are dreams but dreams are all we have sometimes. Of course when those dreams come true, we can experience part of Heaven on earth.

That was my day, my day until on the way home I tell my wife about Nancy and her request: ‘Santa, I just want a better life and for people to respect me.” Earlier in the day, I held it together; I only started to tear up. On the way home, in our dark car, I didn’t do so well, this time, well this time I broke down. Nancy deserves both of her wishes; my prayer is that she will get it.

Today was a good day, I think we do it again next week, then maybe the week after, and if Santa gets his wish, each and every day, why, because God created all humans in his image, not just those with nice homes, good jobs, and fancy clothes, but the down and out, the hard luck, and yes, the homeless.

Words from Jesus follow:

(31) "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. (32) All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (33) He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
(34) "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. (35) For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, (36) I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

(37) "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? (38) When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? (39) When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

(40) "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

(41) "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. (42) For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, (43) I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

(44) "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'

(45) "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

(46) "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." ~ Matthew 25: 31-46 (NIV)

The following is an older Christmas Song, one many has heard but with new images, watch, think of these individuals and others that need warmth and love this Christmas. To view the video, simply click on it, if the video don't appear, click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG1iicgXi2A

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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

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Wichita, KS 67217

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December 12, 2009 - Saturday

Is This A Pity Party? A Tell All Sure To Offend Some, Sorry
Current mood:

betrayed
Category: Religion and Philosophy

This can also be seen at Hollywood Jesus and the following url in a different format: http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2009/12/is-this-pitty-party-tell-all-sure-to.html

Is This A Pitty Party, A Tell All Sure To Offend Some, Sorry

It is important for this particular article that I give an explanation prior to your reading. This is not written to bring a pity party for myself, neither is it written to make anyone look bad. Some will look bad because the truth sometimes hurts, but the truth needs to be spoken. This is written with the intent of showing that I have experienced what I believe to be unfair attacks, unfair criticism, and bad events that I didn’t bring on myself or deserve. I know as many others that sometimes life does suck. That said, there is hope, purpose and a God that looks out for us.

During the time of year I am writing this I get to play Santa. It brings in a little extra income, (this year being used to help others in need) but it also gives me the opportunity to bring a little joy to others. When we see Santa, we see the world around us, and unfortunately, a time of year people are full of despair and depression. I see one side that brings joy to children, and yet, I am swamped with spending time with people who are hurting for various reasons. To ignore the two extremes can be dangerous. I want to bring a taste of reality to those who are familiar with me and this ministry. The things I write about are things that happened. I know some reading this will be critical, yet, I will provide if need be, specifics to verify every single thing I write about. I am not afraid to face the truth head on; I am not concerned about people offended by the truth. I also realize that knowing the truth doesn’t make one right, yet, motivating others, to have hope is important because someone has to speak up for and to the least of these. I have tried to maintain integrity as much as possible. I wish I could say the same about all of those I have come into contact with, either professionally or in the perspective of ministry. I know many who are, but those people always speak out against injustice and seek to find out the truth by talking to all parties. I will let my record, my words, and my actions speak for themselves. For those who would hurt, lie, and deny the truth, just know this, I will gladly provide evidence to maintain the integrity of the work I do, the people I serve, and the God I live for. People can talk about my name, the ministry I do, but here I am still talking about, serving, and loving my God and those he called The Lost, The Last, and The Least.

I don’t know, sometimes I want to quit. I start out the day today doing the usual routine, checking the email, and responding to people who have emailed me. Most of the emails are from people who are hurting, a girl who quit her job and suffers from depression, a friend who just lost his 103 year old dad, another lady who was sexually abused as a child, a pastor who is having struggles with homosexuality, a person with mental illness I am encouraging to get back on their medication, and the list goes on. There are usually 3 – 10 responses per day like these.

After responding to the emails this morning I got ready to send out my newest newsletter for The Virtual Pew. We send out around 10 newsletters a year to update those who support this ministry. I share about what we are doing, and in this one I am working on raising funds and services to keep the ministry going. Many will be surprised at how little money we bring in, and of that, how much goes to help others.

I am a strange cookie, today I reflect on the difficulty my family has gone through with this ministry. I once had a good paying job, was buying my dream house and doing well in the Mental Health World. I felt God started to call me back to ministry where I could share what I believe to be the full measure of helping others, which is being open to sharing Jesus. My former employer, Crossroads Clubhouse in Tulsa Oklahoma, even though I never was one to proselytize overreacted to one person who had mental illness (who has sense come back and apologized and said they were wrong) who was upset because he voluntarily attended an event at my church with other individuals where religion was being discussed. Somehow I was blamed, was written up and to quote the statement it was stated “In that faith is a personal issue, under no conditions shall Mike share his faith with members and/or staff of Crossroads; neither shall he invite them to his church.” I have come to understand in the last year, that this comment, (A breach of confidentiality) was also included in the employee handbook for future employees, and while my name was not mentioned, the fact that this occurred with a former Executive Director, which I was the only one at the time it was published, was clear indication the comment was speaking of me.

At the point of the evaluation comment I considered it affirmation of my need to leave. I offered a 2 month notice and assisted in the transfer of leadership within the agency. Of course, the rumors and lies started, as they have in several situations in my life, and after the publication of an article in a national magazine about my experiences, I likely ruined my chances of ever working in that field again. I have since, again in the last year, also learned of untrue statements being made by some of those individuals in the community, and internationally within the International Clubhouse Community. That has been obvious by the continued lies, and lack of response from people I once considered friends in a vocation and world that I still deeply love and believe in. I have also had these things shared with me by former employees, professionals still in the field, and consumers who still value the work I did.

I have never quit believing in the original vision to help people with mental illness as was established by John Beard and the original members of Fountain House Clubhouses. As much as I believed in that world though, it has become clear that many in that world turned their back on me, and the opportunity to denounce lies that were spread has been refused to be heard because some of those individuals I once considered friend, never bothered to check out the sources and truth of the matter. I am still open to that, but believe that their actions indicate they have no desire to actually seek out and discover the truth. Thankfully there are some, including many members and former staff of Crossroads (every single staff person there when I was have either been fired or left employment) know the truth and have given me personal encouragement and shared how much my work there meant to them. Thankfully others from around the globe who were a part of that world and life experience have also shared their love.

After leaving Crossroads, I ended up taking a pastors job at a church (out of 4 offers) that paid the least, and was the smallest, (my choice). I know I was listening to God’s call. It was my first Sr. Pastor Job and that church didn’t get the support it needed, (not financial needs as much as mature people coming and helping out) and again, problems arise, especially within staffing and leadership. I know lies were told, and damage done. I have come to realize, not only in the professional world, but even within the ‘church’ world the same types of problems can arise.

I know there could be the appearance of being paranoid, but these things can be proven by others who observed certain behaviors and actions. I can provide witnesses to the situations, but it amazes me that sometimes, people don’t want the truth, they want to have their ears tickled. In the meantime, people are hurt; people who deserve to know the truth and challenged to mature in the reality of even difficult situations. Despite these difficulties, I keep on keeping on, serving Jesus and speaking out to do the work for those who are hurting and in need of love. I have never wavered in my faith, never wavered in what I know to be the truth of the situations I have lived and experienced. I challenge for anyone to prove I have not tried to maintain the utmost integrity. I think all followers of Jesus should maintain integrity.

Today, I wonder, how much has my family suffered and missed out on? One of the difficulties was moving to Wichita from Tulsa. We were living in our dream home. I quit my job when I felt “the call” to move to Wichita and I ended up taking out my retirement to live on and invest in our home. Then September 11, 2001 happens and the investment I was living on was almost all lost.

We later moved to Kansas and decided to rent out our dream house in Oklahoma. We had five renters over time, four of them Christian, and the last one non Christian. Three of the four Christian families either seldom paid rent, or left owing us substantial rent monies which we never got back. The first two we let out of it, the last we sought to recoup our damages, over $5,400 and then we were criticized by other Christians for trying to get our money back, despite the fact we were facing losing our home. We ended up only getting $200 of what this family owed us. The last family owed us three months worth of rent, had a one year lease, but after six months felt God call them to missions, they left us on our lease, and owing us three months rent. I guess again, that even the call of God to missions doesn’t expect one to maintain integrity. This was ‘Christian’ families who had no concerns about hurting a family in ministry. I know I have let people take advantage of me too much, maybe those hurts explain why I challenge the church to be the church, and have such a sympathetic heart to those who aren’t a part of the church. These types of things have happened to me my entire life, but not just there, read on.

A pastor at a small church that makes $15,000 per year with few benefits doesn’t make enough money to pay mortgage and utility payments on two houses. Yet, with the lack of paying of rent, of other ‘Christians’ fulfilling their responsibilities, that is exactly what I had to do. We finally rented our house to a non Christian family, but the damage was done, we just couldn’t catch up. Of course this family never missed a payment and was exemplary renters. We ended up having to sell our dream house short. This means we sold it below the market value and got nothing in return, at least it wasn’t foreclosed on. I could write a book about bad property managers and renters. Of course I suspect others could do the same.

In Kansas the church I was at closed down after five years and efforts to get help. I had planned on leaving and starting The Virtual Pew but in that year when the transition was in place, excuse the expression, but all hell broke loose. We had a great plan in place for the transition to happen. Then the church split and lies and damage done that caused the church to fall apart. We could have made it back from the hole we were in , we just needed a few people with maturity to come on board to help us out with things like child care, despite these calls for help, to larger churches, to various individuals and organizations, not a single effort to help in this area was provided. I know some will be upset by this, but this was a great church that was needed in Wichita, I wanted to see it make it, I believe God did as well. It is why Mosaic exists; it is very similar with some of the same people and other new ones. Yet again the lies to our face by people we had been honored to serve and love.

We sucked it up, tried to make it right, but to no avail. While I know I made mistakes in my first pastorate, I am confident other serious mistakes were made and the movie Second Chances by Ben Pearson and Steve Taylor, says it well, there is actually little help from people when it comes to actually helping inner city urban churches. I specifically requested help during the difficult times, even prior to the difficulties that led to the church closing down, but the sponsoring agencies, while agreeing with the mistakes they made in the formation of the church, did little or nothing to help make those things right. Often there is the assumption that all problems can be solved with money, while money may be needed, it is often people that make the real difference.

How much trouble was it, what kind of difficulties did we experience? Two years after this church was closed we found out that even though taxes had been taken out of my paycheck, those taxes had never been paid to the state, or federal government. When the IRS Audit is done guess who has to pay taxes back, with penalty? That’s right, my wife and I. Over $7,000 had to be paid back, essentially out of 5 years of service, I lost the $6,000 that was initially withheld from my check, plus over $7,000 that we had to pay back. That is essentially like a years worth of wages.

I was a part of a denomination I loved deeply; I hear nothing from them anymore despite my efforts to stay involved. My wife put it best, “It is as if they forgot you exist.” My daughter who was the Director of Creative Affairs for the Mennonite Church USA was also appalled at the lack of support we received, she and others saw what happened, they had knowledge of how some church denominations take care of their pastors. I suspect some who were a part of that experience will read this and wonder, “what the…” some may respond, I will welcome that, but it won’t change the reality of the last years. I love the Anabaptist, I love and believe in their theology, and value the Mennonite Brethren people, but even in this situation, I can’t help but say, it feels like we were once again, cast out and abandoned by the church, left to make it on our own.

I know this may sound like a pity party, maybe it is, but I think that with what seems like the luck I have experienced, from childhood, and later in life the abuse from individuals and agencies, I deserve that rare party. Recently this hit me hard. You see my wife is looking at retirement in the next 2 years, and I honestly don’t know what I have provided her or my children. I see friends who are making a lot of money, have great retirement plans, nice homes, and on and on. On the home issue, we are living in a home we had a lease option on and the landlord/owner filed bankruptcy. We never missed a payment and were a year out of hopefully purchasing the home. We don’t know what our future is for the house. I have to wonder, has a life of giving to the poor, the abused, to the call of Christ been worth it?

I can honestly think of few people who has had as much ‘bad luck.’ On the flip side I can think of few who has been given more when they need it from God through the hands of others. When my wife’s brother died, she was able to go home because of the generous gifts of others. When my mother died; I was able to go home to see her at Christmas and another time to be there the day she died, because of the gifts of others. Grace Hill Media made it possible for my wife to fly there to be with me. I have been blessed to have moments of magic where I could taste and smell Heaven. I have seen and been a part of blessing others, seeing their tears, sharing a hug, giving a place to stay when needing a home, and on and on. I have hopefully to some, been a mirror representation of Jesus especially to many of those Jesus loves and cares for that are often neglected or forgotten.

Today, likely tomorrow and the day after, I will again hear the ridicule of the doubters and haters, of people who seem to have it all. I wonder though, do they really have it all? Do they know the joy of serving someone that Jesus said when we serve and love them, (the least of these); it is as if we have served and loved him?

Last night my wife and I were driving around some nice neighborhoods in Wichita looking at Christmas lights. She asked, “Mike, do you think we will have homes in Heaven?” I responded that the Bible talks about mansions in Heaven, and that we would indeed have a home in Heaven. I don’t know how it all works out, but I believe God knows the truth, I am confident he does. He knows the truth of my life, he knows what happened regarding me leaving employment in the Fountain House Clubhouse world, (although I would hope to always be a part of that world because I love and believe in it so much) he knows what happened with our house in Oklahoma, he knows what happened at our old church United at the Cross, he knows the truth and he knows my heart.

This isn’t an attempt to get self pity, which does little good and may even make some things worse. At the moment I don’t need much, although nice things and experiences are nice at times. Mosaic, the church I serve has potential; we seem to have the possibility of growing. Things at The Virtual Pew in regards to ministry have never been better. While I don’t have all I want, I have all I need. I would just say this; tell the truth; don’t build up hope in others if you don’t plan on helping them. Remember broken promises and broken dreams result in broken hearts, for some of us; we can’t take any more brokenness. I want to say this as well, especially to those who are hurting. While others may ask me; “Has it all been worth it?” I can answer with an emphatic, “You betcha! It has been worth it because Jesus is worth it. I can only hope and pray, that those who hurt, who have difficulty will find out as I have, the hope of eternal blessings that comes from the eternal savior, Jesus Christ. Then you can have the satisfaction of knowing that life is indeed worth it, no matter what the experience, or the hurt, it is worth it because you are of value and Jesus sees you as a person with incredible beauty and incredible potential. One thing is certain, people, organizations; things we love will let us down, but in the things of God can make an incredible difference, no matter what. It is why that at this time of year I love to give, and share of God’s love and what he has done for me, despite the hard times. God loves and provides hope like no other. The birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ, was an indication of that love. May we all surrender to his desires for our life, and give up the concepts of self, that so often hurt others. When we do that, I think God smiles; personally I hope to make him laugh with joy.

The following is a song that I wrote around a song that a friend named Barry DeFleron wrote. I used his chorus, and wrote the verse to this version as well as the music. It is different, and hope you enjoy it. Just click on the video, if the video don't appear, click on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAOlX2tkTjM

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Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

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Fountain House: Portraits of Lives Reclaimed from Mental Illness
By Mark Glickman

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December 9, 2009 - Wednesday

The Virtual Pew News 23, Merry Christmas
Current mood:

animated
Category: Religion and Philosophy

The following can also be seen at Hollywood Jesus and the following url in a different format: http://thevirtualpewnews.blogspot.com/2009/12/virtual-pew-news-23-merry-christmas.html

The Virtual Pew News 23, Merry Christmas

It is that time of year when most ministries are soliciting donations. A few of those donations have come into The Virtual Pew and I want you to know we are so grateful for those. We want to be clear though, from the outset, that even the smallest contribution can make a huge difference to this ministry. For those that know this ministry, you know we allow specific designations where those designated gifts can go directly to the area of need you request. Those individuals will also know that we make every effort with the contributions to make the Christmas season a special season especially for children in need, more about that later, but first a quick break down of contributions over the last year.

So far over the last year The Virtual Pew received in contributions a total of $5,502. Of that, $3,420 went out to direct ministry, including gifts to children, assistance in living expenses for individuals, counseling expenses and more. We also received $350 in contributions to The Virtual Pew for the Mosaic ARC program of that, 100% was given to Mosaic to help cover expenses for the Mosaic ARC program as well as contribution of salary to another individual who is helping with the counseling for Mosaic ARC. Therefore of a total of $5,502 given to The Virtual Pew, $3,770 went to direct ministry, and $1,732 was used for expenses to travel to Tennessee for my mothers funeral, and other ministry related expenses such as printing, travel, phone and so forth. Hopefully this helps show the significance of the contributions given, and the reality that the overwhelming majority of contributions are given out to direct ministry.

Now as mentioned earlier you can designate gifts and those designated gifts will be used for the ministry request via 100%.

Christmas Giving for Families and Children, 100% of designated goes specifically to the area you request.

Here we have adopted several families to give to, with the economy the way it is, it is very difficult for some families.

Let me tell you about one of the families, one is a lady who has had a very difficult life including being prostituted out in the past, having 3 small children and very little income. This family is active in a church and is making the effort to walk with God. This family also had a child commit suicide several years ago. For this family we need the following types of gifts.

For the mother – clothing sized extra-large, basic gifts.
For the husband – Clothing, large, - extra large, basic gifts
Boy Aged 6 - clothing for a husky sized 10, toys, this child likes army related toys.
Boy Aged 3 – clothing sized 4 toddler, toys, this child likes sports related items, trucks, cars
Girl Aged 5 – clothing sized 6, she likes princess related items and baby dolls.

Another family

Girl Aged 3 – clothing sized 4 toddler, a coat, boots size 11, any other clothing items, likes interactive games and puzzles
Boy Aged 2 – he likes push and pull toys and toys you put things in. This child also likes music

Another family
Boy Aged 14 – Clothing Adult small, all kinds of clothing, he also likes cars and artistic types of gifts, including drawing, art and more.

Kids involved in Mosaic Tutoring program, we are looking for one gift per child, either clothing or learning related.

Ages of children in tutoring program are as follows:

16 year old boy
13 year old boy
10 year old boy
10 year old girl
7 year old girl

We are also seeking donations and contributions for the Mosaic ARC program which we help sponsor. The Mosaic ARC program is a program that provides recovery services for persons who have been physically and sexually abused. These services are provided despite ability to contribute for services. Currently we are seeing 3 people face o face, and provide phone counseling to 2 people. There are ongoing costs to this and 100% of designated gifts go directly to Mosaic.

General Contributions to The Virtual Pew. The Virtual Pew has ongoing costs associated with this ministry, from computer and web site maintenance, to supplies for the persons we are serving, costs of materials, printing, and minimal salary assistance. This ministry was featured last year in Dr. Charles Stanley’s In Touch Magazine and has done wonderful work with literally hundreds of direct contacts per year, and thousands of contacts via internet ministry. From our writings to our direct communication and interaction in social networking sites this ministry continues to grow.

Much is going on with our ministry, so much has happened in the last year, from the death of my mother, to the involvement with Tiroma Films out of Tulsa Oklahoma who is working on making a movie on my life. I am pleased with the things God has done, but nothing gives satisfaction like the daily interactions I am blessed to be a part of. From the counseling of sexually and physically abused individuals, to the encouragement in escaping sinful lifestyles and making the effort to get ones life back on track, free from such influences as drugs, gangs, abuse, sexual addictions, occult activity and more. We are also excited about the new ways we are opening up discussion with others who are outside the Christian circle, whether with individuals who are Atheists, Homosexual, or others.

God is still good, and we continue to see ministry take place. We see relationships strengthened, and people rededicate their lives to Christ on a regular basis. We also have the joy of seeing people make commitments to Christ, not just in a flash pan way though, but in a way where disciples and committed followers of Jesus come about.

I thank each of you who are receiving this for your prayers and support of this ministry in the past. The next year looks to have another bright future but will also have additional needs, especially once we start raising the funds for the movie which will provide hope to thousands who have experienced abuse in their life. I get to see the joy of the ministry, others have been blessed to also see the results of this ministry, ministry which wouldn’t take place outside of your generosity.

Now as is always the case. I appreciate the gifts, but want you to know, if you pray and feel the desire to give to another ministry, by all means do so. I have no problem with that, but truly seek to contribute to a ministry where your contribution will be used wisely and in the way it is needed. At The Virtual Pew of course we don’t have to maintain any jet airplanes, we don’t have to pay any large salaries, that is unless you figure the $700 or so in salary that I personally brought in last year a large salary. But pray about it, I challenge you to remember those Jesus instructed us to love and serve, the homeless, the widow, the person in prison, the sick, the needy, the orphan and the widow. While I am sure Jesus may be in many larger ministries, I am certain he is concerned and compassionate about ministries to the poor, his word indicates so, and I challenge you to support those ministries.

Blessings to all, and to all a very Merry and Wonderful Christmas,

Mike Furches

The following is a video we put together for my wife. It is the song titled The Secret of Christmas. It also features some old family footage and some we have spent Christmas with over the years who otherwise wouldn't have had Christmas. The song is in the middle of the video and has a great message. Just click on the video to watch and if the video don't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcTXhANrOcI

Currently reading:
The First Christmas: Luke 2:1-20 : (The Birth of Jesus)
By Mary Manz Simon

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December 8, 2009 - Tuesday

Prairie Giant, The Pastor Tommy Douglas Story
Current mood:

breezy
Category: Religion and Philosophy

The following review can also be seen at Hollywood Jesus and the following url in a different format: http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2009/12/prairie-giant-pastor-tommy-douglas.html

Prairie Giant, the Pastor Tommy Douglas Story, A Commentary on Health Care and More

Have you ever been to one of those discount stores and seen the discount movie bin, you know, the movies that are usually $5 or less? About a month ago I actually came across a bin with those types of movies at of all places a Christian book store. I saw a couple that looked interesting, one I had heard of, the original, In His Steps, and another, newer one from 2005 out of Canada I hadn’t heard of named Prairie Giant, the Pastor Tommy Douglas Story.

Truth is, while Tommy Douglas was named the greatest Canadian of all Time, I hadn’t heard much about him, there was name recognition and that was it, which is a shame as one who prides himself in the study of history and the influence of Christians on society I am embarrassed to say I knew little more. Tommy Douglas was also a Baptist minister and as some may appreciate, he was also Kiefer Sutherlands Grandfather. His accomplishments were many, and during the debate currently taking place in America regarding Health Care, his story, the obstacles and the things that drove him are relevant for a new generation, for a different nation.

Prairie Giant covers more than a 50 year period in the life of Tommy Douglas, from his first pastors’ position in Saskatchewan to his years in the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa. This three hour movie covers a great deal of history, and provides ample background to draw one into the life of Douglas. We see the deep love between his wife and him, as well as the challenges of standing up against the political powers of the time, the powers that represented the wealthy, the money, and the capitalistic powers that be. The thing that drove Douglas, even from the early years, was clearly the message and teachings of Jesus Christ. Douglas was an outspoken opponent and servant of the poor, from all walks of life. His experience in the pulpit and the ability to communicate with others would be a driving force to help in his long term success in the Canadian Parliament.

Douglas, while a pastor in Saskatchewan was forced to see the challenges placed on the poor. From the unimaginable working conditions placed on local miners, to the lack of food for the poor, and the need for health care. Many of the things I found challenging while watching this captivating mini-series from Canada was the arguments that were used some 50 years ago. Without getting into a debate on the policies currently under consideration in America, I found it mesmerizing that the arguments I hear now related to Universal Health Care, are the exact same arguments I saw presented in the movie. What is different though is the perspective of the one fighting for the rights of the poor, and ultimately universal health care in the movie has as a part of his conviction, conviction based on deeply held religious beliefs specific to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

I can’t help but think some about the driving force behind much of the theology of many Christians in America. I have to wonder, is that theology based on politically held beliefs of political parties, or are those beliefs rooted and founded in the teachings of Jesus Christ. One can normally tell the difference when we start hearing things about founders, when in fact that information is not accurate or founded, or when we hear about capitalistic ideas as opposed to Biblical teachings. I am confident, if a belief is held deeply on the teachings of Jesus, then it seems that should be supported with the teachings of Jesus from Scripture. Yet to find excuse and reason to not use Biblical supports, or to even try to counter those Biblical supports without Biblical proof seems to me to indicate a belief in a system not based on Jesus teachings, but on political perspectives. Don’t get me wrong, if this is your foundation, fine, I have no qualm about that, but if your foundation is Jesus, remember this, “No servant is able to serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (riches, or anything in which you trust and on which you rely).” (Luke 16:13 Amplified) Tommy Douglas had to face this challenge from within his own denomination, it was clear to him that he had to follow the teachings of Jesus, specifically from the Sermon on the Mount and Matthew 25:31-46 where we are told of the importance of serving the ‘least of these.”

Douglas was a part of a denomination that told him he could not be involved politically and at the same time preach the gospel. He was clear, and to the point as to how he disagreed with them. This was the driving force that caused him to step down as a pastor and take on the political world he lived in, not however without the support of many within his denomination, his church, and those in the community he had shown a willingness to love by serving them. It was a call that lasted for over 50 years. The leadership within some in the religious community wanted his focus to be on sin, but one scene in the movie eloquently illustrates, that Douglas believed that when we refuse to stand up to the oppression of the poor, from a Biblical perspective we are allowing sin, in fact, to not stand up against the oppression of the poor, is in fact, sin.

Douglas was a man who knew the “common” man and woman and never lost sight of his calling. While many fight for the idea, he distinguished the importance of standing beside of, and fighting for the people. While he was a man who was deeply committed to his faith, he was also a man who understood the difficulties of real life because he lived real life. One scene in the movie has the young pastor, who in fact was a boxing champion; tell one of the young men in the movie that he should forget the rules of the ring in standing up to a bully. At the point when a bully is being a bully, he has already lost all respect for rules. This type of real relationship, with real people was what drove their love and appreciation for Douglas, but his standing by their side also drove and inspired him. He had seen people die for their convictions, whether a poor person without health care, or a union worker who had been beaten by union forces encouraged by the government to stand against those striking workers. Douglas you could say got his hands dirty, he wasn’t a Monday morning quarterback, he knew the convictions of his heart, and did what was needed to see changes take place for the people he believed all Christians were called to serve.

There will be many who will disagree with the positions taken by Tommy Douglas, but no matter what your position, one has to respect his dedication to the things he believed. He believed in them enough to dedicate and give his life. I am also amazed though at the reality that many will often say that those of faith, Christians in fact, have never really contributed to the cause and needs of the “common” man and woman. Yet, we know, it was Christians involved in the overthrow of slavery, who fought to protect and help many during the civil rights movement, and who fought for women’s suffrage among many things. Through the life of Tommy Douglas, we can see it was Christians who fought to establish rights not just for Canadians but North Americans on many fronts, not just Universal Health Care, but unemployment benefits, quality education for all, farmer benefits and much more. I believe the true measure of a Christian has to be measured in part by how important it is to place the teachings of Jesus in a place of precedence over every thing else, including political persuasion. As a measure of desire to follow those teachings has to involve what we do for the poor, or least of these.

I would encourage looking for this DVD, it is well worth the purchase, certainly worth the $5 I paid for it. The only major disappointment I had was that none of the special features advertised on the DVD were actually on the DVD I purchased. Thankfully there are many things related to the real Tommy Douglas available on YouTube and other web sources. I have found a new historical character to appreciate and learn more about. Despite your political views this is a fascinating historical viewing you can watch and contemplate, especially if a person of faith. If you are undecided about things like Health Care, I think this movie may be more educational than many realize, and more dangerous than others would want. One thing is certain, Prairie Giant, the Pastor Tommy Douglas Story is a story and DVD that could have the Tommy Douglas preaching beyond the grave, for that, I can’t help but believe that he and his decedents would be proud.

The following are clips from the movie and other appropriate aspects of Tommy Douglas. Just click on the video, if the video don't appear, click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWKsR0gugww

The following video may be one of the best political speeches for the masses I have ever heard. This animated film, with a voice over of the real Tommy Douglas is introduced by Douglas' grandson, Kiefer Sutherland.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqpFm7zAK90

Currently watching:
Prairie Giant (Collector's Edition)

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December 1, 2009 - Tuesday

GPS, A Marital Relationship Improvement Tool, Plus
Current mood:

restless
Category: Religion and Philosophy

This can also be seen in a different format at Hollywood Jesus and the following url: http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2009/12/gps-marital-relationship-improvement.html

GPS, A Marital Relationship Improvement Tool Plus More

Yesterday I purchased something that was on sale at one of the local department stores. It is something that will benefit and improve the relationship with my wife. I am still learning new tricks and I have come to realize, technical advances can often work at improving relationships. On the way home from church I was talking to my wife about our new marital relationship improvement tool. I made mention of it in church, and this new tool is something that goes by another name. We were trying it out last night and today on the way home from church. I couldn’t believe how I used it as an illustration at church today. The other name this marital relationship improvement tool is known as is a GPS or Global Positioning System.

Now I know some are asking; “how is this a marital relationship improvement tool?’ The answer is actually quite simple, at least for me. I have always loved to travel and as a result my wife has been on many trips with me as a navigator, sometimes driver. Along the way on those trips we have followed maps or trip tickets from things like map quest or some other online directory. Needless to say, those things aren’t very accurate and wee have gotten into more than a few arguments with more than a few frustrations over our inability to read the maps or follow the directions. We realize the GPS won’t be perfect, but it will be better than the maps or trip tickets we have followed over the years. The voice on the GPS also makes it easier to yell at it than each other.

There was something else I noticed about the GPS I alluded to in church this morning. There are a number of features on the GPS that do things like inform me when I am going above the speed limit, where the closest business or gas station is, when I am entering a school or church zone, even when to turn, if there is construction ahead, or if there is an accident down the road. It is a road map to help in more ways than just giving directions. As I looked at the message and prepared it today for church I recognized that in many ways, Jesus is a road map to help us. He knows the way we should go, he has given us the warning signs that are ahead, and he can help us stay out of problem zones if we listen. In some ways, Jesus is also a GPS, but not a Global Positioning System, but Gods Positioning Savior.

You see it is quite simple, Jesus is there, he is in position and one who has gone through many of the conflicts we have gone through. While he is fully divine, he was also fully human. The Bible tells us he went through the same difficulties we do. He came to earth to help get to the relationship God wants to be in with us. It is up to us to listen. Jesus is much like the GPS in another way, we can go away from the directions we are given, but as soon as we go away from those directions, new instructions are given to help us get back on track, of course we can listen or not, but there is always someone there, willing to help us get back on course. We have a choice when we hear those directions, either listen, or continue on a course that leads us away from God. The course we take is up to us, while we have the voice, those directions; we still have control of the steering wheel, brake, gas pedal and in my case clutch. It is our decision, we can listen to the direction we know will get us to our destination, or we can choose to go our own way. Of course going our own way when we have a GPS seems to be a waste of a great, beneficial tool. I know some of us go our own way when we have a GPS, but I have to ask, is it any wonder some of us experience the tough road that robs us of joy, happiness and hope? If Jesus is your GPS, use him, he knows what he is doing, of course the instruction manual, the Bible will be of benefit to read to fully understand the directions we are given. Then the voice we hear, the Holy Spirit, will be a gentle voice, that even when we are off course will gently lead us back to the place that leads to the things God would have for us. We can charge each other to stay strong and make sure our batteries never die, but those responsibilities still lie with us. What will you do?

Some have asked me which GPS I purchased. Well the following is a video of one of the best on teh market. It is fairly new and not many people are aware of it. I highly recommend that you check out the video, just click on it, and if it doesn't appear, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDaxjEu-Qck

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Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

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Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

Currently listening:
Jesus on the Mainline
By Various Artists
Release date: 2007-10-03

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