Harvest Happenings - Entries written by Brent Halvorsen
ThuThursdayMayMay17th2012
Never Underestimate God Connections
Harvest, You just never know how God's going to make connections with people and Harvest Bible Chapel. This week I received an email from a man named Bruce who was driving behind a pickup truck on a local expressway. He happened to be driving behind a man from Harvest that has a Harvest informational magnet on the back of his truck. Love that! Anyway, Bruce emailed me to let me know he saw our information and he's going to bring his family to Harvest. He must have done some research on us... More
ThuThursdayMayMay10th2012
A Culture Of Unity
Harvest, I've been so thankful for the way in which God's shaping our culture at Harvest. We're getting to a place where we're feeling more and more united with one another and even more comfortable with each other. It takes time to build a fellowship and an atmosphere that is dynamic, vertical, and also loving. It's happening though! Check out this email from a woman that visited Harvest last Sunday. It's so encouraging and I want all of you to read it. God's using all of us, and it's good to... More
ThuThursdayMayMay3rd2012
Adoption Sunday
Harvest, This Sunday we'll be studying the book of Ruth. We're going to take a one-week break from Galatians in order to celebrate an amazing Hebrew word and concept known as Hesed. Hesed means bonding one's self to another person with love and loyalty. It's an amazing word. It's a great truth. I can't wait to get into it on Sunday. As you know, the reason we're in the book of Ruth this Sunday is because we're going to be celebrating the selfless act of adoption. How does Ruth and adoption tie... More
ThuThursdayAprApril26th2012
Celebrating The Important Things
Harvest, My 12-year-old son, Seth, and I were talking yesterday about a conversation he had at school. He couldn't remember all the specific details, but Seth said his teacher was teaching that Christianity was started by some man and that the universe was started by a large explosion. Seth couldn't remember the specific name of the man whom the teacher said started Christianity, but there was definitely no mention of Jesus and no mention of God in creation. Garbage, huh?! Anyway, Seth... More
ThuThursdayAprApril19th2012
Committed Men
Harvest, "Men are actually involved here." "I love being a part of a church where men want to lead." "Harvest is a place where men can be seen doing ministry and being really active." I've heard these exact quotes and other statements like this from women and men who plug in at Harvest. I love how God is using men at Harvest. It's unusual in today's church climate where too many men have chosen to stay in the background and let women shoulder the burden of the church. Listen, our women at... More
ThuThursdayAprApril12th2012
Thankful
Harvest, First, still praising God this week for His faithfulness during our Good Friday and Easter services. God showed up. People showed up. God was worshiped. Jesus Christ was lifted very high. Thank you so much to all the people that served and prayed, so that our services could be God-honoring and distraction-less. God is so good to us! Second, check out these important updates at Harvest... Happening Right Now... Ken and Gina Paulsen are right now in China picking up Naomi. You can follow... More
ThuThursdayAprApril5th2012
Good Friday
Harvest, My spirit continues to burn with the hope and the expectation that God is going to change lives this weekend. In my estimation, God is burning in my spirit this understanding that if we choose to boldly stand up for Christ, He will greatly--beyond our imagination--honor our obedience and faith with great power. I believe people are going to get saved this weekend. I believe that people's lives are going to change for Jesus Christ. With that in mind, read this email that was sent to me... More
FriFridayMarMarch30th2012
Celebrating 3 Years
Harvest, Happy Anniversary! It's officially three years today. Three years ago--March 29, 2009--we launched Harvest Bible Chapel West Minneapolis inside the Maple Grove JH. Praise God! Praise God! To God be all the glory. It's no small thing for a church plant to celebrate its three-year anniversary. Nearly 80% of church plants fail within the first three years. I'm so grateful to the Lord. I'm so humbled by His goodness to us. It used to be that I was just thankful that God kept our doors open... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch22nd2012
A Changed Life
Harvest, Still energized, excited, and grateful to the Lord today over what took place yesterday at lunch. God changed a life. A man named Jared gave his life to the Lord. God is so amazing! A quick summary of the story... God used a man named Rob at Harvest to reach out to a fellow co-worker named Jared. Rob loved on Jared and reached out to him during a difficult season. Yesterday, Rob, Jared, and I met for lunch to talk about Jesus Christ and the way of salvation. Jared was glued. God was... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch15th2012
Why I Worship at Harvest
Harvest, Whenever a person leads an organization or sells a product, that person loses the right in the opinion of some to be objective. People may say, "Well of course he likes the product, he's trying to convince us to buy it." or "Of course she loves the company, she's running it." At the risk of sounding bias, I'm going to tell you why I'd serve and worship at Harvest even if I wasn't pastoring at Harvest: First, Jesus Christ is central to everything. We're not a church that's trying to... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch8th2012
Christianity's Tough Questions
Harvest, I'm really looking forward to Sunday morning's service. It's going to be the perfect Sunday to bring the people in our lives who have been asking us the tough questions about Christianity. It's true, we can't argue people into heaven, but there are ways in which we can present more clearly why we believe what we believe. On Sunday, we'll be answering the following questions: #1: Is Christianity Exclusive? #2: How Do We Deal With the Presence of Evil? #3: Why Do People Stay Away from... More
SatSaturdayMarMarch3rd2012
Cool Connections
Harvest, This past Sunday was so fun. It'll always be one of those special moments at Harvest for me. Thanks for being so welcoming and loving and accepting of Brenton Brown and his team. I'd expect nothing less from you all anyway! Okay, two quick things here: First , I just love discovering all the cool connections that people have at Harvest. You just never know what you're going to uncover until you begin to talk with people. Here's some interesting people facts at Harvest. Harvest has... More
ThuThursdayFebFebruary16th2012
Moving Pieces
Harvest, Pieces. We all have pieces. What's going to happen to all the moving pieces in our lives? Most likely all of us could say right now that we're wondering how all the pieces are going to come together. You know, "Why did this happen?" "Why did God allow this?" "Why am I going through this trial?" "Whatever happened to my life that always made sense to me?" What pieces are you hoping to see come together in your life? Listen, the pieces of our lives are sovereignly cared for and shaped by... More
ThuThursdayFebFebruary9th2012
Elders and Deacons
Harvest, Sure hope you've had a chance to meet our elders at Harvest. They and their wives are such a huge blessing. One thing we say at Harvest is that we want our elders to "smell like the sheep." That means we want our elders to be actually doing the work of ministry in the lives of people. By Gods grace, our elders smell like sheep...so do their wives! Please pray for our elders and their wives as God leads: Jay and Iva Carey, Gary and Ann Keeler, Ken and Gina Paulsen, and Mark and Laura... More
SatSaturdayFebFebruary4th2012
What If...
Harvest, Have you ever just sat down and read Psalm 119? It's awesome. It'll blow you away. The Psalmist's love for the commands of God is so refreshing. Here's a tiny glimpse into the heart of this Psalm: 10 With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! 11 I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. 12 Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! 13 With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. Have you ever wondered what God... More
FriFridayJanJanuary27th2012
The Wonder and Greatness of God
Harvest, Our people at Harvest are interested in the things that God lays on my heart as a shepherd. Of course, Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. I'm simply an under-shepherd...not worthy to untie the sandals of Jesus So, I think what people really want to know is "what is the Chief Shepherd putting on the heart of our under-shepherd?" That's a great question. Here's the answer lately: It's Psalm 145. I read this two weeks ago while alone with the Lord and I smiled, smiled, smiled, and was filled... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary19th2012
Trip Highlights
Harvest, Immediately following last Sunday's service, Lisa and I drove to the airport and boarded a plane with Steve and Kim Deedrick from Harvest Rochester. Our destination was Florida. Our purpose was to meet with Harvest pastors from all over North America to sharpen one another, grow our relationships, and get refreshed for more fruitful ministry in 2012. We had a great time. There's so much to report. Here are a few highlights from our trip: - HBC Orlando was such a great host. The people... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary12th2012
Deeper
Harvest, Deeper. We're going to go deeper this Sunday. We're going to go deeper into the application of 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. Last Sunday, we opened the scriptures to discover that we easily struggle when we intimately partner with people or beliefs or actions that are contrary to God's will. To be unequally yoked is to set ourselves up for failure. It's to give ground back to the kingdom of darkness. We're starting out the year wanting to take back ground for the kingdom of God. It's our... More
SatSaturdayJanJanuary7th2012
Giving Our Live To The Lord
Harvest, First, it's so good to be back at work serving the Lord at Harvest. My time over Christmas with my immediate family, and also my extended family was blessed by the Lord. Only because of God's grace. I believe God worked powerfully in our family over Christmas because of prayer--your prayers and ours. Thank you so much for praying for us. Please know we were also praying for you. If you have any stories about family this Christmas, please email them to me. I'd love to celebrate with you... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember22nd2011
Looking Back...
Harvest, Merry Christmas to everyone! Some of us are traveling to be with family. Many of us will be staying here with family in the Twin Cities. Either way, Lisa and I and the kids pray that every single one of us will grow closer to the Lord during this amazing time of year. As I look back on 2011, I'm so thankful for God's work at Harvest. I'm amazed by all the new people God has led here. It's such a joy reading over our weekly prayer list and seeing all the many names, deep and personal... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember15th2011
Weight or Worry?
Harvest, Last night the guys in my small group gathered around my kitchen table to open up and connect as men in the Lord. I loved it. It was a great time. It didn't hurt that we were munching on some really tasty Chicago pizza from Frankie's. Good pizza. Try it some time. Anyway, we got to a point in our conversation where we focused on providing for our families financially. For men, this can be a very challenging aspect of leadership in the home. Some men aren't making as much as they need.... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember8th2011
God's Favor
Harvest, God's favor. What is it? Does God want me to have favor? Is God able to give me favor? How do we apply it to our lives? There's so much talk out there about what it means to have God's favor or to want God's favor. Some segments of Christianity talk about it very sparingly. It's almost as if these segments want us to believe that God isn't interested in showing us favor. Some segments, however, talk about God's favor with great self-interest and short-sightedness. It's almost as if... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember1st2011
Growing Outside Our Walls
Harvest, A church plant is such an amazing miracle. It couldn't flourish, let alone begin, without the perfect will and sustaining power of our great God. I've been blown away lately by God's work at Harvest. The Holy Spirit is really making progress and moving in our church. We're seeing more people choose to make Harvest their personal place to serve and worship. More and more people are getting involved in significant, fruitful ministry. Small groups are growing and growing. Lives are... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember23rd2011
A Stable Thanksgiving
Harvest Let me introduce you to my new favorite passage for the year--Isaiah 33:2-6. It's really powerful. It's totally speaking to me. As all of us gather round for Thanksgiving tomorrow, please remember how personal and powerful the Lord is in our lives. The holidays can bring out old family wounds. Emotions can go sideways quickly. For some reason, the holidays can sometimes bring a lack of stability to our lives. No matter what the holidays look like this year let this verse wash over you.... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember17th2011
Transformational Grace
Harvest, It's Happening... It's Happening... It's Happening... Our prayer this year is that God would transform us. We're asking God to fill each of us with UNPRECEDENTED, TRANSFORMATIONAL GRACE. All of us have places in our lives, in our relationships, and in our walk with the Lord that need to be visited powerfully by God's transformative grace. God is willing to come and change you and me. He can change the way you see yourself. He can change your marriage. He can change your lack of... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember10th2011
Our Tongue
Harvest, Please read this amazingly piercing and convicting passage from the book of James. It focuses on words and the human tongue. James 3:5-10, "So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember3rd2011
Harvest University West Minneapolis
Harvest, We're piloting a ministry called Harvest University West Minneapolis on November 19. What is it? It's a time of Bible study that will be focused on certain theological topics. Chris Courtney will be leading this ministry. Here's a quick description from him: Want to develop a deeper appreciation for - and understanding of - God's Word? Join us beginning November 19 for HARVEST U West Minneapolis, where we will study God's Word and discover what God has to say to His people and how... More
FriFridayOctOctober28th2011
Connect with Your Spouse
Harvest, Lisa and I had a great time in small group last night. We talked about marriage. It was really good. Obviously, I won't share any of the personal details of our group discussion. That's all between us. That's part of the beauty of small groups. However, here's a look at some of the highlights and principles we discussed during our time. There's enough time in the day to connect with our spouses. We just need to make it a priority. I think we'd be surprised by how careless we are with... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober20th2011
Needy Creatures
Harvest. It's on my heart today to talk about provision. All of us need provision. There's no doubt that each of us is waiting right now for provision of some sort. Financially. Relationally. Vocationally. Directionally. Medically. We're human. We're very needy creatures. We're always in need of provision. The amazing thing, though, about being a needy human that follows Jesus Christ is the promise that God will be our Great and Timely Provider. He will always provide. Always. Always. Always.... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober13th2011
Being a Disciple
Harvest, Our men at Harvest are meeting in groups of three focusing firmly on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. In chapter two of our study, Greg Ogden defines discipleship as "one who responds in faith and obedience to the gracious call to follow Jesus Christ. Being a disciple is a lifelong process of dying to self while allowing Jesus Christ to come alive in us." The passage that chapter two focuses on is Luke 5:1-11. It's the great passage where Jesus tells Peter to drop his... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober6th2011
Harvest Rochester Update
Harvest, Last Sunday, I told you I'd give you an update on Harvest Rochester's launch. I will now. I'm also going to give you a couple more updates for you to praise God about. First, Harvest Rochester launched with 193 people present at their first service. Praise God for that! A group of people from our church got up very early in the morning to serve in various ways. I know Pastor Steve and his crew were very thankful for the support of our church. Please continue to pray for Rochester. It's... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember29th2011
An Exercise Toward Freedom
Harvest, Two Sundays ago I mentioned that there are two things the Lord is really going to change about us in our current series on Jonah. First, God's going to expose and change our self-righteousness. Second, God's going to expose and change our selfishness. Here are some ways to maybe understand your areas of self-righteousness and selfishness, and ask God to change you. He will, He loves you so much. His grace is deeper than our deepest sins. You are not condemned! Self-Righteousness... Do... More
FriFridaySepSeptember23rd2011
God Is Working
Harvest, Ephesians 3:20-21, "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen..." Felt led today to share with you the ways the Lord is working at Harvest in this new ministry year, and also let you know about some great opportunities to get connected and grow at Harvest. So, read and be blessed. To God be ALL the glory! 1.... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember15th2011
Unprecedented, Transformational Grace
Harvest, A few very important spiritual items as we begin this new ministry year at Harvest... First, our focus for the year will be Fill This House with Unprecedented, Transformational Grace . I'll explain this more on Sunday, but the point of the focus is that each of us will grow more in Christ Jesus than we ever have previously. Second, we'll be starting the year in the book of Jonah. Read it. Study it. It's a great book, and I believe it's going to speak loudly to us. Third, small groups... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember8th2011
On My Heart
Harvest, Once in a while, I like to write all of you an email with some things that are on my heart. It gives you a way to see what God's doing in the heart of your pastor. Here are some of those things: Totally more in love with my wife today than ever before. Have never felt closer to her. God is working, and I'm so grateful. Kids are back in school. Happy for that, but the homework demands can be draining on the whole family. Excited about this coming Sunday. People keep telling me we're... More
ThuThursdayAugAugust18th2011
Radical Faith!
Radical faith! We need it. God deserves it. We've got to step out and practice it. We're going to this Sunday at Harvest. Loved Ones, the elders and I have decided it's good to give to the church plant in Rochester. As most of you know, Harvest Rochester launches on Sunday, October 2. We love that church, and we want to truly partner with them for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are praying and hoping that they'll be a powerfully fruitful and impactful church in a city that desperately needs the... More
ThuThursdayAugAugust11th2011
Going Deeper
Harvest, A new ministry year at Harvest is approaching Sunday, September 11. It's going to be an exciting and fruitful year. We're going to work hard, worship the Lord deeply, and trust Him for great and fruitful times. God has called each of us to forge ahead in this new church that has a deep passion for MORE of God and MORE of God's work in people's lives. Make no mistake about it, God's working at Harvest, and Harvest is a unique place to serve and worship the Lord. With this in mind, I'm... More
ThuThursdayAugAugust4th2011
Are You Feeling Tension?
Harvest, please read these verses and let them sink deeply into your soul: Ephesians 6:12-13, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, and against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm..." The enemy loves dividing families, companies, and... More
MonMondayAugAugust1st2011
Nows The Time Engage
Harvest, Lisa and I had a great time Tuesday night at our house hosting Party With The Pastor. On eof the best parts about ministry for me is experienceing and hearing the stories of how God's working in people's lives. I never gets old. Love it! Anyway, one thing I shared with the group was how I want them to immediately feel apart of what God's doing at Harvest. There's no reason to wait 90 days or longer to get to know people, get plugged in, or even to start serving somewhere. We're all a... More
ThuThursdayJulJuly21st2011
Another Summer Challenge
Harvest, So amazing how God's working this week in shaping and encouraging our hearts to reach out to more people with hospitality. Thank you for sharing with me how God's encouraging you to open up your homes, invite people to your homes, and just simply get involved in reaching out to others. God's working at Harvest. We need to become a church that is willing to step out of our comfort zones and trust the Lord to work through us. You never know how God will show up when we make ourselves... More
SatSaturdayJulJuly16th2011
Two Big Themes
Harvest, Time away to get refreshed, have some fun, and connect with my family was great. Thank you so much for blessing me with time away. You'll be happy to know our elders realize the importance of this for me, and they are so great to help protect me for ministry for the long haul. Lisa and I want to be at Harvest West Minneapolis for many, many years to come. So, periodic breaks are needed to help keep me strong and hungry for the future...all for God's Glory! So, elders and church, THANK... More
ThuThursdayJunJune23rd2011
God's Preparing Us
Harvest, Had a great breakfast today with a new man at Harvest. He's married and has children. It continues to amaze me how God's leading people to Harvest that want to really give their lives to Jesus Christ in worship and service. These are great days. God's building us deep. God's building us strong. We need to continue to seek out the Lord in everything we do. God's preparing us for great ministry impact in the Twin Cities and beyond! Also, Ladies, tonight's a great opportunity to grow... More
FriFridayJunJune17th2011
Teen Mentoring at Harvest
Harvest, My heart was so pleased this week when a group of people walked in my office, Starbucks, ready to engage in ministry. There's nothing like seeing God work in the dedicated people of Harvest. The group was there to participate in our summer teen mentoring ministry. Ministry was happening during the week, in a coffee shop,in the lives of adults and teens, and God was getting glory from it all. Love that! Pray for our high school mentoring ministry going on this summer. Teens will be... More
FriFridayJunJune10th2011
The Things I'm Giving Thanks For Right NOW
Harvest, Psalm 9:1-2 , '"I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." How great is it when God's redeemed people sing songs of gratitude to Him. God deserves our thankfulness. We'd be lost and completely broken without God the Father's provision of Jesus Christ. With that in mind, here are some things I'm very grateful for at Harvest: Men who are committing every... More
FriFridayMayMay27th2011
Harvest Summer 2011 Challenge!
Harvest, Summer is going to make an appearance this year, I think, and when it does, rest assured we're going to continue to drive hard to glorify Jesus Christ in everything we do. Summer will not change our desire or hunger to pray that God will Fill Our House with the greatness of who God is and the greatness of what God does. That's what we want. We want to see the GLORY of God Fall on Us ALL! With that in mind, I want to encourage each of us to take part in a June 2011 Summer Challenge.... More
FriFridayMayMay20th2011
Crawl Into God's GLORY!
Harvest, I've never been so hungry and expectant for God to reveal His glory to us at Harvest. I'm praying that God will give each of us the same passion to see and experience God's glory. God's glory is the obvious revelation of the greatness of who God is and the greatness of what God does. We're going to continue to crawl deeply into the glory of God . As we do, God will gladly reveal Himself to us in ways we could never have imagined! If you would, commit these verses in Haggai to memory...... More
FriFridayMayMay13th2011
The Story of Rachel Russ
Harvest, This coming Sunday , God willing , Rachel Russ will be sharing her story of how God's been working in her life during a battle with breast cancer. Personally, Rachel has been a huge source of strength and impact in my own life. I'm amazed by how God's using Rachel. God's glorifying Himself through her. It's time her story comes out more publicly. Please pray for Rachel. Pray she'll have the strength and health to be at Harvest on Sunday . Pray that God will get amazing glory in this.... More
WedWednesdayAprApril27th2011
Process before Prize!
Harvest, Here's a great biblical principle to remember in the Christian life: Process before Prize . Another way to say it is: Humility before Honor . OR: Sacrifice before Provision . Check out the way in which this principle unfolds in this passage in Haggai. Look at it. Study it. Meditate on it. Pray that the Lord will help you to live out this principle in your life: Give to the Lord...Watch the Lord Honor His Name Through You! (That's just another way to say it). How would you say it?... More
MonMondayAprApril25th2011
Evidences of God's Grace Part 2
Harvest, Psalm 28:8-9, The LORD is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed. Oh, save your people and bless your heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever. Harvest, my heart is filled with gratitude this morning over the work of the Lord in each of our lives. This last weekend remembering the sacrifice and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was unbelievable. God's at work. He's saving and growing His people. The evidence of God's grace has been... More
FriFridayAprApril22nd2011
Lean. Press. Hold Fast.
Harvest, Pressing in. Leaning on. Holding fast. As we grow in Christ, we learn to do these things with more faith and vigor. I've been growing more deeply. God's teaching me to lean on Him, press into Him, and hold fast in Him like never before. I've been hearing the same thing from so many of you. One of the great benefits of being a pastor, is hearing and seeing how people are worshiping more deeply. All of you are causing me to want to serve the Lord with more obedience and faith. Thank you... More
ThuThursdayAprApril14th2011
A Buzz in the Air at Harvest
Harvest, There's a buzz in the air. God's moving. He's not packing his bags and moving away from us. God's moving more closely to us. We're seeing God more deeply penetrate the very depths of our souls. He's revealing more of His grace and power and love in our church. There's no doubt that people are changing. God is becoming our first love . God is healing us. God is causing us to forgive and love others. It's powerful. On Monday , the elders and I were in amazement over God's work at... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch17th2011
It Never Gets Old...Another Changed Life!
Harvest, Last weekend it was Leah Russ. You remember the email, don't you? Rachel Russ (the mom) sent me an email detailing Leah's decision to follow Jesus Christ. At the end of that email was a prayer request . The prayer was for Sarah. Sarah is Leah's twin sister. Sarah was not a believer last week. Today, she is! God changed her life over the weekend. It is with great joy that I share this with you. God is amazing. All glory and honor to our great God! Thank you for praying. God answers... More
FriFridayMarMarch11th2011
Important!
Harvest, Two important things to know for this coming Sunday ... First, turn your CLOCKS FORWARD this Saturday night . More daylight coming. Sweet! Second, we're going to be diving into one word, "Ask." It comes from I John 3:22. We're going to be going through an unbelievable exchange (Mark 5) that two adults had with Jesus. One person was a Synagogue ruler named Jairus. The other was a woman that was struggling with a health issue for 12 years. She couldn't stop bleeding. What do these... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch8th2011
Wow. Another Changed Life at Harvest!
Harvest, Love it. Love it. Love it. I love it when the Bible comes to life. I love it when we see the truth of God's word come alive. The Word is reality. It's truth! It's real! Remember this verse? Mark 4:20, " But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." On Sunday night , Leah Russ gave her life to Jesus Christ. Good soil! The Word penetrated her heart. Pray that the Word grows deep roots in... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch3rd2011
Really? Change the World? Really?
Harvest, I've been having this conversation with myself lately about the mantra "change the world...change the world." You know, people will say, " This is going to change the world." " We're going to change the world." I don't know. I'm not sure I'm really seeing the world change. Know what I mean? Sure, the world is getting smaller. People overseas might as well be our neighbors. Instantly, we can access overseas peeps via email, Facebook , or the Internet. Technology is changing. The world... More
FriFridayFebFebruary25th2011
I Sinned. Am I Still a Believer?
Harvest, This Sunday , we're going to dive into one of the most potentially confusing verses in the NT. Here's the verse: 1 John 3:6, No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. What does this mean? As a Christian, am I supposed to stop sinning, period? Am I even able to stop sinning? If I sin, am I truly a believer or not? What if it's a really bad sin? What about the sin I struggle with on a daily basis like lust or greed or... More
FriFridayFebFebruary18th2011
Blown Away By Love
Harvest, As God continues to build this church, I'm amazed by the depth of love that has so obviously taken over Harvest. First, God's love is changing us. It all starts with Him. Second, we're responding to God's love by giving our lives more fully to Jesus Christ. In other words, we're loving God with our lives, not just our words. Third, there's an obvious and powerful love growing for one another. There are so many stories about how people are being loved on and reached inside our church... More
ThuThursdayFebFebruary10th2011
Why Do I Struggle With Personal Identity?
Harvest, Sunday we're going to answer the question, "Why Do I Struggle With My Personal Identity?" The title of the message is: Identity Crisis: Deception Causes Denial. My faith in what God is doing at Harvest is growing more and more every day. God is moving. We don't deserve it, but it's happening. By faith, I trust that someone is going to be set free this Sunday by a personal struggle with identity. All of us struggle with this in some way. This Sunday, it's going to come to a breaking... More
TueTuesdayFebFebruary8th2011
3 MORE Decisions for Christ at Harvest!
Harvest, It's amazing and humbling when God works so obviously and powerfully among us. Our desire as a church is to be a place where God's so very pleased to work in unusual ways. We believe God chooses to work most powerfully where people are most authentically giving their lives to Him. As you know well, that's our vision as a church. We are striving to be a place where ALL of us are giving our lives fully to Jesus Christ . We're all called to be living sacrifices . God honors that. God... More
FriFridayFebFebruary4th2011
The Last Hour
Harvest, An ongoing prayer that I have for all of you is that you'd hold on to your faith every single day. The temptation to fall away is so great. The flesh longs after the desires and empty promises of this world. Allow me to admit this, I sometimes wonder if all of us are going to make it to the end. Will some of us prove to be frauds? Are any of us living a lie? Are some of us not truly believers? We're not really saved by God's grace. We're not changed or changing, and we're not living,... More
FriFridayJanJanuary28th2011
3 Ways God is Working at Harvest
Harvest, There are three great things that are currently characterizing what God's doing at Harvest these days. One, we're getting more serious about giving our lives fully to God. It's happening. People are growing. It's amazing. Two, we're becoming a church that truly loves each other, but also others outside our walls. The stories that are being told, and the relationships that are building are only from God. Three, we're becoming a more bold people. I'm hearing this and seeing this all the... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary26th2011
If I Were to Write a Book Today
Harvest, If I were to write a book today, which I'm not, I'd write it on the subject of "Giving our Lives Fully to God." There'd be two main parts to the book. The first part would have to do with Living with a Foundation of Fear. The second part would have to do with Living with a Foundation of Grace. Of course, it would be guided by the Foundation of God's Truth. The Bible! Why a Foundation of Fear? It's simple. We cannot worship rightly without it. Without a deep and profound awe and... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary19th2011
Thankful for You!
Harvest, I'm so grateful to serve alongside each and every one of you. You are amazing people. I praise God for you. Thank you for your heart for the Lord. I love the way you serve. Your passion for His will continues to grow every single day. Thank you for your obedience to our great God. Continue in courage and perseverance. God deserves our best every single moment. What's your moment right now? Give God your best! Also, January is the Great and Amazing month of Prayer. Last Sunday night,... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary13th2011
Another, Yes Another, Changed Life at Harvest!
Harvest, 2011 has gotten off to a great start for ministry at Harvest. God is at work, and there's much going on. Please spend a few moments familiarizing yourself with some great ways to get connected, be encouraged, and grow in Jesus Christ in this new year. Ready to be encouraged? Read on... Another, Yes Another, Changed Life at Harvest... - Give God praise for seven-year-old Amanda. She is the daughter of Greg and Stacey Kuhl. On Sunday , at Harvest, she gave her life to Jesus Christ . Wow.... More
FriFridayJanJanuary7th2011
A Changed Life at Harvest
Harvest, Happy New Year . The Halvorsens are back and ready to roll in 2011. I've been back at work since Monday. Okay, enough about that. I've got better news to share with all of you. Last year, right at Christmas time, Andy Gray texted me and told me he gave his life to Jesus Christ. You may remember hearing Andy's story before at Harvest. This year. This Christmas . Lisa and I got a text from Amanda Ellison telling us that Sadie, Jim and Amanda's daughter, trusted Jesus Christ as her Lord... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember22nd2010
The Best Christmas Ever?
Harvest, My ten-year-old son, Seth, got out of bed last night (after I had just put him down, little bugger), and came to Lisa and me with tears in his eyes saying, "I was hoping this was going to be the best Christmas ever." Then he said, "It's going to be. It already is." Most kids make that statement based on circumstances. Hey, if the presents are what they wanted, it's a good Christmas . If the candy and cookies are flowing, love it! It's not the same for adults. Not usually. I've not even... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember15th2010
Ready for 2011?
Harvest, Listen, 2011 will be here soon enough. Before it does, commit to finishing 2010 strong. The Lord has much for us before the calendar turns. Ask the Lord to continue to reveal to you all that He has for you as you finish 2010 faithfully and sacrificially. Here's a verse that's been a great encouragement to me in 2010... Haggai 2:4, " Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the LORD. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest . Be strong, all you people of the land,... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember8th2010
Ugliest Christmas Sweater
Harvest, December is moving fast. Christmas is coming. Our hearts are growing in anticipation of the coming Christ. We're going to take another step in worshiping our Savior on December 22 at 7pm at Maple Grove JH . We're going to sing Christmas songs , read scripture, and rejoice together eating Christmas cookies and drinking hot chocolate. For the brave ones among us, it's time to bring out that ugly Christmas sweater. The ugliest sweater will be awarded a prize that night. Invite... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember2nd2010
It's Coming
Harvest, We've all had to wait for God. We've all had to wait on God. Be encouraged by this great verse as you wait for God to work in your life. Habakkuk 2:2-3, "And the LORD answered me: "Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end- it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay..." Harvest Updates... - 2010 Women's Christmas Brunch: Deadline to register is... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember1st2010
Harvest Building Update
Harvest, Already looking forward to this coming Sunday . The focus for Sunday's message is: God's Answer to Every Problem is a Person . Pray that God will use it to grow our encouragement in Jesus Christ. Harvest Updates for the Week Ahead... - Building Update: The search continues. We've seen a few buildings already. Nothing has yet to make sense for us. There are three potential sites to look at in the next week or so. Please pray for God to make everything so very clear to us. God will... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember23rd2010
Living With Fear
Harvest, Fear. We all have it. Should we really be living with it, though? Hmmm... Is it possible to live life without fear? Question: What are you afraid of? What's got you upset and scared? We begin a new series this coming Sunday in the great New Testament book of I John. We're going to start out comparing and contrasting Love and Fear. Here's a great verse to memorize this week, as God's love continues to starve our fears, and we continue to choose to grow in our walk with our great God!... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember18th2010
Why are you about to quit?
Harvest, Check out this encouraging verse from the Lord: Galatians 6:9, "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Have you ever thought about giving up? Of course you have. All of us have given up in the past. Really, I'm not worried about the past right now. God isn't concerned about the past either. So, we'll move on from that. God's willing and able to get us past the past! I'm more concerned about now. Where are you tempted to "give up"... More
SatSaturdayNovNovember13th2010
Our Sin
Harvest, The first thing I thought of this morning when I looked out the window to see the beautiful snow was my sin. Actually, the snow made me think about how God has covered my sins with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. You know the verse I'm talking about. Read the verse again. Allow it to flood your heart with gratefulness and forgiveness. You are forgiven in Jesus Christ. It never gets old. Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember11th2010
Top 5 Things I Love About Small Groups
Harvest, Lisa and I will soon be getting ready to go to small group tonight. It's something I look forward to every week. Here are my Top 5 Reasons "Why I Love Small Groups": 5. The desserts are amazing. Seriously. 4. It's quality time with my wife. It's like a date night, but with a little more spirituality:) 3. I'm spending time with very caring and interesting people. 2. I'm growing in Christ, and becoming less self-focused. ...and the number one reason "Why I Love Small Groups" #1. God... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember4th2010
Sweet Harvest Video
Harvest, People ask us all the time, "What's Harvest all about?" Get them fired up with this video: Check it out on our Harvest Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Maple-Grove-MN/Harvest-Bible-Chapel-West-Minneapolis/133968793294015#!/pages/Maple-Grove-MN/Harvest-Bible-Chapel-West-Minneapolis/133968793294015 Have a great week, Harvest! See you all Sunday morning . Prayer at 9am-9:50 in room E145. I'm so blessed to be a part of this place, pastor brent
WedWednesdayNovNovember3rd2010
Evidences of Grace
Harvest, Allow this message from the Lord to wash over you today... Ephesians 3:14-19, "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith- that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and... More
FriFridayOctOctober29th2010
Praise God!
Harvest, God's at work! Our progression as a church can only be attributed to the grace and power of God. Jesus Christ is Head of the Church. I praise God for His work in our lives. It's our mission to glorify God to make disciples of Jesus. Please continue to pray that God will use Harvest to expand the kingdom for His glory. That's the reason we exist. Additional Prayer Items... - Elder Process. Our elder candidates (as announced Sunday) are Mark VanderPloeg, Gary Keeler, Ken Paulsen, and Jay... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober26th2010
This Week
Harvest, Please note these opportunities this week for deeper fellowship, and deeper commitment to the Lord! Intense Bible Study: This Wednesday night , October 27, from 7pm -8:45pm at Pastor Brent's house. 2745 Garland Lane North, Plymouth, MN 55447. No need to RSVP. Bring your Bible and be ready to dive deep. Sunday, October 31 , Family Lunch and Christmas Packing for Children Overseas: FAMILY FUN DAY WITH HARVEST after church this Sunday, October 31 . It's a POTLUCK, SOOOOO…A-L bring main... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober21st2010
This Saturday Night and Next Wedneday Night
Harvest, This Saturday Night, October 23... Harvest Women: All women are invited for an evening of Bunco and fellowship this Saturday, Oct 23 at 6:00 pm. Bring an appetizer/snack to share. (You don't have to wear a costume but you may win a prize if you do!) To sign up please email Haley Peterson at chrisandhaley@msn.com. We will be getting together at Haley's: 17993 Tyler St NW, Elk River, MN. Wednesday Night, October 27... God's Word: Intense Bible Study at Pastor Brent's house. 7pm-8:45pm.... More
WedWednesdayOctOctober13th2010
Why Are We Singing That Song?
Harvest, Our worship team is so great, but I think they're going to kill me! I've been asking them to lead us in the same closing song every Sunday for the past three Sundays. I'm going to give them/us a break this coming Sunday . We'll mix it up and do something different. Happy now, team? :) The title of the song is " I Will Follow " written and recorded by Chris Tomlin . The reason I wanted to sing it repeatedly is because of its focus on discipleship. We're a disciple-making driven church.... More
FriFridayOctOctober1st2010
HUGE Harvest Updates!
Harvest, Praying for all of you this week. Praying for our church. I'm so grateful for the work of the Lord in this place. God gets all the glory! Please read these updates carefully... This Sunday ... God's been working in the hearts of three people who are going to be baptized this Sunday at the school. Still time for you. Do you want to be baptized? Email Pastor Brent: halvorsen6@yahoo.com . Harvest Bible Chapel Clothing ... Order form is attached in this email. Prices have dropped and... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember30th2010
Death of a Harvest Pastor
Harvest, This past Sunday, we talked about prayer (Eph. 6:18), and God's call for us to pray for the saints not just here, but truly all over the world. God has now put an opportunity before us to pray for the Kingdom across the world. We lost a Harvest pastor this week. Please pray for his family and friends. Please pray for the growth and fruitfulness and healing of this Harvest church in Liberia . The Death of Pastor Andrew Kpah... (Message from our Fellowship) I am sorry to bring you the... More
FriFridaySepSeptember24th2010
Intimacy
Harvest, For too many of us, it's possible when we think of intimacy we think only of sexual intimacy. I'm not talking about being obsessed with it. No, I'm talking about how we're tempted to believe that ultimate human intimacy only takes place in a sexual union. That's just not true. We live in a culture where sex is idolized. Sex is a god. It sells products. It's plastered all over our billboards. It's even on Sesame Street this week. Anyone, see the Katy Perry clip on the news that was... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember21st2010
The Amazing Women at Harvest
Harvest Women, God's been so good to us. He's provided us with amazing women. We'd not be where we are today without the devotion and strength of the many women at Harvest. Praise God for all of you! Here are some great opportunities for our women to continue to grow together... This Thursday Night ! ... An Evening of Hospitality: This Thursday, September 23rd at 7:00 p.m . Amanda Ellison will be giving a lesson on how to make a homemade apple pie . Cost is $5, includes the ingredients and... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember16th2010
Don't Hold Back!
Harvest Family, This Sunday , we begin our new theme for the year. Commitment. It's going to be a year of great growth. God's going to heal us, strengthen us, and continue to conform us to the likeness of Jesus Christ. You're going to be asked to Commit this year. To what? First , to a deeper walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. Second , to building strong, biblical relationships. Third , to the new work that God is doing here at Harvest. The deeper we Commit , the more powerful will be our... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember14th2010
BIG Sunday for US
Harvest, Sunday was a BIG step forward for us as a church family. God is so good to us! I've got to share some lasting impressions and images from our launch this past weekend: Lasting Impressions and Images... - We had so many people working hard to set up Sunday morning . It was such a biblical picture of the body sacrificing. THANK YOU to everyone that worked so hard to make Sunday happen. You are my heroes this week! - Special thanks to Haley Peterson for helping to organize the day. She's... More
FriFridaySepSeptember10th2010
Breaking News: Harvest
Harvest, Seventeen (17) more Harvest Bible Chapel churches are launching this fall in the U.S. and around the world. These are very exciting times. It's a great blessing to be a part of Harvest Bible Fellowship. So many opportunities will be afforded to us to help grow God's kingdom because of our larger family relationship with our fellowship. Check out the new locations and pastors in the attached file . Please pray for these new churches. They are in for a great adventure, just like us!... More
WedWednesdaySepSeptember8th2010
A new year at Harvest!
Harvest, I've never been so excited about a new ministry year. This Sunday marks a brand-new ministry launch for us at Harvest. Each year is so unique. God does something different every year. His shape for us is always changing. God will lead new people here. God will continue to connect and grow the people here now. Lives are going to continue to conform to the likeness of Jesus Christ. God's going to change something in your life this next year. Are you ready for it? So, what's God going to... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember7th2010
Harvest in the News
Harvest, Please take some time today to read the following article in the newspaper: http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_15988530?nclick_check=1 . Today is the one-year anniversary of the death of Officer Richard Crittenden. Officer Crittenden is the father of our very own Rick Crittenden. Rick, Anita, Kole, and Kiel (twin boys) are a very special part of our Harvest family. Rick and Anita belong to our small group in Plymouth. We've known the Crittendens now for over a year. It's been so... More
FriFridaySepSeptember3rd2010
September Opportunities 2010
Harvest, We're so hungry to see people truly connect with each other and grow in the Lord in 2010-11. God's given us the opportunity to be a part of something new and fresh and exciting at Harvest. We're just getting started. It's an unbelievable adventure. You're guaranteed to be stretched. You're going to change. God's willing to bless your faith in Him. Make the most of this chance to see what God's going to do with the people at Harvest that truly give their lives to Jesus Christ . You're... More
FriFridayAugAugust27th2010
Last Night
Harvest, The Halvorsen house was filled with women last night that were singing and praying to the Lord. Praise God for the faithful women at Harvest. We could not be strong without them! Prayer at Harvest continues this weekend. Commit yourself to praying for Harvest at some point tomorrow. Many of us signed up for a specific slot. Thank you! The rest of us, please take some time tomorrow to pray. All of us can pray about the following: 1.) Our elder team process; 2.) More people serving in... More
ThuThursdayAugAugust26th2010
Who Is Church For?
Harvest, So many good things happening as God continues to create, lead, and build this church. Jesus Christ is being glorified, and that is the most important focus we could have at Harvest. We're not a church where people think that church is for them . It's not. Church is for God. It's for us to give our lives back to Him. So, as we worship and serve at church, know that we are not seeking what church can do for us but what we can do for Jesus Christ ! When we begin to think that church is... More
TueTuesdayAugAugust24th2010
A New Believer at Harvest!
Harvest, The Halvorsen family is so grateful for the decision our eight-year-old girl, Ainsley , made on Sunday . Ainsley gave her life to Jesus Christ . Wow. There's nothing more profound and eternal than that. Lisa and I are overjoyed this week. God's power is humbling. His timing is perfect. His love is endless. Lisa and I are grateful for what the Lord has done in Ainsley's life. Also, we're very grateful to the Higher Ground Children's Ministry. Ainsley was learning from the book of... More
FriFridayAugAugust20th2010
Jesus Freaks
Harvest, We have four main values at Harvest that we call our Four Pillars . Proclaiming the authority of God’s Word without apology ( 2 Timothy 4:2 ) Lifting high the name of Jesus through worship ( John 4:24 ) Believing firmly in the power of prayer ( Ephesians 6:18 ) Sharing the good news of Jesus with boldness ( Ephesians 6:19-20 ) Saturday night , a group of men from Harvest are taking a new ministry of evangelism to the streets of Minneapolis . They'll be sharing the good news of Jesus... More
WedWednesdayAugAugust18th2010
Huddle For Sanity and Growth
Harvest, Looks like Brett Favre might be back. One thing I know for sure, football is back! That's good news for some of us. For others of us, football isn't a big deal, huh? However, there's one cool lesson I'm taking from the football field this year, and immediately wedging inside my home. It's the huddle. In football, the offense huddles before every play to rally the troops, encourage one another, and make clear the orders (the offensive play) for its next move. Think about it, the huddle... More
MonMondayAugAugust16th2010
Family at Harvest
Harvest, God's working at Harvest this summer. God continues to reveal Himself in ways that are causing us to worship Him more deeply. It's humbling, from my vantage point, to see how God leads and establishes and builds this church family. First, lives are changing and people are continuing to grow in the Lord. We've heard of some amazing stories already this summer. There are more to come soon. Second, more people continue to give their lives to serve the Lord in the community and in this... More
FriFridayAugAugust6th2010
Expectations: Part Two
Harvest, By now, you've read the first email about "expectations," and are now ready for this last one. My focus in this email is what are the expectations for Harvest? #1 - I need to stop projecting my personal expectations/desires on Harvest, and respond more to what God wants at Harvest. This is such a growth thing. Not easy. Why? God is in control . Not me. #2 - Changed Lives. Why? The Bible expects this. God expects this. #3 - Evangelism and Discipleship . Why? Again, God expects this. #4... More
FriFridayAugAugust6th2010
Expectations: Part One
Harvest, Expectations are so dangerous. I've experienced the pain or frustration of unmet personal expectations in so many areas of life (i.e., relationships, jobs, sports teams, people promises, etc.). I've even experienced the pain or frustration of unmet personal expectations in a church setting. It hurts, like all the other unmet expectations. It's no different. It's not more or less shocking. It just hurts, because they were my personal expectations going unmet. The thing that each of us... More
MonMondayAugAugust2nd2010
Pictures: The Baptized Eight
Harvest, ' Couldn't be more grateful and excited right now for what God is doing as He grows this new movement. Saturday night was so much fun. God moved. Eight baptisms represented eight changed lives. Praise God for His mighty work at Harvest! Check out these pictures from Saturday evening : www.hbcwestminneapolis.shutterfly.com . They will give you great joy this morning. Thanks to Rebecca Gravening for capturing these shots. Continue to pray for the eight that were baptized: Mark Carlson,... More
MonMondayJulJuly26th2010
Our Family
Harvest, Our Harvest family is so precious. Attached is a picture of a part of our Harvest family that you've just got to see. Open it. Praise God when you see it. God's so good to us. God's giving us people for the purpose of changing lives for His glory. The days are so young at Harvest, but God has given us so much already. Praise Him! As our family grows, it's important that we continue to build relationships outside of Sunday mornings. So, please understand how important Saturday night is... More
FriFridayJulJuly16th2010
The Joy of the Grind of the Journey
Harvest, Recently, I've been thinking about the joy that comes from the grind of the journey. Each of us is called to travel several journeys in this life. There's the journey of physical maturity. We go from helpless babies to productive members of families and communities. Also, there's the journey through the various seasons in our life. All of us can remember, or are currently going through a season in life that's very challenging. Nothing comes easy, and progress seems to hide so easily.... More
WedWednesdayJulJuly14th2010
We Have a Lot!
Harvest, Vacation Bible School 2010 has been amazing this week. It's been so much fun to see the smiles on children's faces, hear the theme verse recited, and study all the youth and adults serving at Bible Boot Camp this week. It's caused me to be so thankful for all that God has given us during these very early days at Harvest. My heart is full this week. God never fails. So, join me in praising God for His work in our church family. Also, please join me in praying that lives will be changed... More
FriFridayJulJuly9th2010
Late Night Seven Questions!
Harvest, It's a fun Firday night addition of Seven Questions! Laura Vander Ploeg is up tonight. Enjoy learning more about her and her family. Laura is better now, but she used to be the one lying on a cot at the top of the auditorium. The reason? Back surgery. She milked it for a while, though. Kidding, Laura! Also, take note of a few other things going on at Harvest... - Children's VBS: July 12-15 at Maple Grove Junior High from 2pm-4pm . - Maple Grove Days : July 17 at the MG Community... More
ThuThursdayJulJuly8th2010
Real Life
Harvest, Here's an email I sent out today to a person in the community. Pray that they (man and wife) would respond to the call of Jesus Christ in their lives. Perhaps God is nudging you to share the Gospel this week. Do it. Trust the Lord in it! ---------------------------------------------------- (The Woman's Name), so glad you shared your heart. It means a lot. Our church vision is to "Give our lives to People, Life Change, and Worship." We want to be real. So, thanks for being real to me. [... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly6th2010
More at Harvest
Harvest, Hope everyone had a great 4th! A lot of you were traveling over the weekend. We pray you had a sweet time with friends and family. Sunday went well at Harvest. Jesus Christ was worshiped! The only odd thing that happened is that the temperature in the auditorium felt like it was 85 degrees with 100% humidity. It felt like a good ol' fashion southern church service . Hey, things happen when you're borrowing a building. God is so faithful, though, in providing a place to grow and... More
WedWednesdayJunJune30th2010
A Great July at Harvest!
Harvest, July is going to provide us with the opportunity to build relationships outside of Sunday mornings and small groups. That's exciting! Here's what's happening in July... July 12-15 (Children's Vacation Bible School) - Our theme is "Bible Bootcamp: Battles of the Bible." Invite your friends to learn more about Jesus Christ, and have some great summer fun. Daily from 2-4pm at Maple Grove Junior High School. Contact Laura Anderson for more information: lauraanderson20@comcast.net July 17... More
FriFridayJunJune11th2010
Do you have an appetite?
Harvest, Summer is coming. Love the summer. It's so tasty. Even though summer is coming, we're going to continue to work as hard as ever to make disciples. God deserves our full attention! Ask yourself this question as you journey through the 2010 summer, "Is my appetite growing for Christlikeness?" We describe our values at Harvest by saying that we are all about Christlikeness. In fact, we have four main pillars that we build our church on. They are called our Four Pillars. Cool, huh?! Here... More
ThuThursdayJunJune10th2010
Two New Faces at Harvest!
Harvest, Lisa and I literally just walked in the door. We had a great time hanging out in Wisconsin with fellow Harvest senior pastors and their wives. All of us are so excited about what God's doing in our movement. Great things are happening. There's much fruit! The time is short, so there's much work to be done. God is so good! Can't wait for Sunday, and the opportunity to worship with all of you again. There's no place I would rather be. You might see two new, small faces on Sunday .... More
ThuThursdayJunJune10th2010
Positioning for Fruitfulness
Harvest, God's been so good to us during these early days at Harvest Bible Chapel . We've trusted God to provide resources. Raise up ministries. Change people's lives. Stir the hearts of men, women, and children. God hasn't disappointed. He's so faithful. So much has happened in such a short period of time. It's only the very beginning, Harvest. Our best days are ahead. We look forward to continuing to experience God's grace for us now and in the future. I strongly desire greater fruitfulness... More
WedWednesdayMayMay26th2010
These early days at Harvest
Harvest, Our mission is the Great Commission . We're called to make disciples. We're doing that at Harvest. Our vision is to Give Our Lives to People, Life Change, and Worship . In other words, we're going to fulfill our part of the mission by our willingness to give our lives to the people around us , so that we can see their lives change permanently and their hearts cry out vertically (worship). As you pray and praise God this week (Big "W" stuff), ask Him to give you the strength to give... More
FriFridayMayMay21st2010
Can't Let It Go
Harvest, This week, I continue to think about forgiveness. For those of you who missed Sunday's service, we focused on forgiving others in 2 Corinthians 2:5-11. It's such a freeing, yet challenging discipline. Forgiveness isn't easy, but we're called to forgive as followers of Jesus Christ. Notice this very intense passage about forgiveness in scripture: Matthew 6:14-15, For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others... More
WedWednesdayMayMay19th2010
It's Humbling...
Harvest, It's humbling that God would entrust all of us with a brand-new ministry like this. Everything is so new and growing. It's really exciting to dream about why God has chosen to raise us up for such a time as this. He's got such a great purpose for us at Harvest. Each of us has a vital role to play. Praise God for meaning, worship, and an exciting future. I'm embracing these very early days at Harvest! A few fruitful updates... - Feed My Starving Children: Last Saturday, our team from... More
FriFridayMayMay14th2010
Ted Blakley: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Ted Blakley is up next on Seven Questions. Ted and his family are new to Harvest, but you're going to love Ted's authenticity. The Blakleys already feel like family at Harvest. We're so grateful for the people God is calling to make disciples! A few Harvest updates... - Feed My Starving Children tomorrow from 11:30am-1:30pm. Contact Lacey Veenendaal to get involved; laceyv_24@yahoo.com - Ready to Be Baptized? Email Pastor Brent at halvorsen6@yahoo.com - Communion on Sunday and Special... More
WedWednesdayMayMay12th2010
Still Worshiping!
Harvest, I'm still worshiping today. I left Sunday's service with such a heart filled with gratitude over what the Lord is doing among us. My heart is filled right now at such a deep level of thankfulness. I just want to get back together with all of you as soon as possible. I believe that God is knitting our hearts together. It seems like all of us are growing stronger, and desire to continue to worship Jesus Christ at a more committed level. We are becoming more satisfied with Him! Here is... More
TueTuesdayMayMay11th2010
Cole Jacobs Update
A little over four months ago, Cole received the greatest gift of his life- a new liver J and is doing great. We were at Mayo last Wednesday and yesterday for an extensive 4 month checkup- biopsy, x-rays, ct scans, kidney tests, lots of blood work , ultrasound, etc…………..Everything looks great!!! Praise God!!! His liver is functioning great. Blood flow is perfect. There are no brewing infections/viruses in his blood. His kidneys are great. They did find one small little cluster of cells in his... More
FriFridayMayMay7th2010
Danvier Wille: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Danvier Wille is up next on Seven Questions. You're going to be blessed by her life? Has anyone been praying about adoption? You might be encouraged to move forward after you read about Danvier and Jesse's life-changing decision. Also, this week, I've been made even more aware of how hungry the men of Harvest are to truly prioritize their lives according to eternity. So, no more excuses, men. Let's move forward together. I challenged my men's group this morning to read 3 chapters in... More
WedWednesdayMayMay5th2010
Great Week at Harvest!
Harvest, It's a great week. So excited that we get to honor our women this weekend at Harvest! God's working so incredibly through the ladies at Harvest. I'm so grateful for the various backgrounds, personalities, gifts, etc. We would not be where we're at today if not for the faithful, dedicated women of Harvest. Ladies, we praise God for you. Thank you for your hearts for the Lord, and thank you for your hearts for all of us! We hope you experience an extra measure of God's love and grace for... More
FriFridayAprApril30th2010
Men of Harvest
Harvest, The boat has left the dock... The men of Harvest are going to get intentional about growing stronger. It's true that men will sometimes feel alone in the tough decisions they have to make, but it's a total lie for a man to think he can do the Christian life on his own. That's such a lie. Harvest will be a place where men will have the opportunity to grow. Of course, each man will have to answer this question: "How serious am I willing to get about Jesus Christ in my life?" This morning... More
WedWednesdayAprApril28th2010
Men and Women at Harvest
Harvest, God's moving and we feel led to get more intentional with the men and women at Harvest. We understand that all of us are hungry to get connected further. So, we're moving forward. This week, there are two opportunities for men and women to get connected with one another. Men of Harvest... ( This Friday Morning ) - This Friday, April 30 at 7am at Perkin's Restaurant on Hemlock Lane. It's just right off of I-94 and near Arbor Lakes . - It's our first official men's gathering ever. Be... More
FriFridayAprApril23rd2010
Chris Peterson: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Chris Peterson is up next on Seven Questions/7 Answers . Chris , thank you for providing a clear window into your life. Before you learn more about Chris, please remember these very important updates... - 10AM Start Time: We are recommitting ourselves to starting the service at 10AM sharp. Please be seated in the worship center before then and get ready to worship strong. - Sitting in the Middle Section: Starting on Sunday , we're going to start seating everyone in the middle section.... More
WedWednesdayAprApril21st2010
Part III: Random Thoughts
Harvest, Ten of us from Harvest West Minneapolis have been in Chicago since Sunday for Harvest University. We come home today. We've had a great time encouraging people and being encouraged by other Harvest churches around the country, and even around the world. God's doing an amazing work in our movement. We'll be planting another 9+ Harvest churches this year. Praise God! Hope you're having a great week and getting encouragement from God's Word ! Is it in you this week? Random Thoughts ... -... More
ThuThursdayAprApril15th2010
Update From Pastor Brent
Harvest, First, thank you for your love and encouragement this week. You guys really get it. I'm very encouraged. In my position as a leader, I will at times be the target of something. Could be the enemy. Could be a person. Could be a person being used by the enemy. Could be a situation. I think Sunday was a test. I think it was/is a test for resolve. Will I have it? I think it was/is a test of faith. Will I have enough? I think it was/is a test of perseverance. Will I hang on? I think it's an... More
MonMondayAprApril12th2010
Yesterday's Service
Harvest, In more than a year of communicating many things to you as a church, I don't think that I've ever conveyed to you what I'm going to tell you now. Yesterday's service was difficult for me. I don't think in one year's time that I've ever felt personally and spiritually attacked like I did yesterday. At a certain point in the morning, a flood of discouragement and doubt overwhelmed my spirit. There's no circumstantial reason for me to have discouragement or doubt. God's working... More
FriFridayAprApril9th2010
Lacey Veenendaal: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Lacey Veenendaal is next on Seven Questions. You need to get to know Lacey and Greg. They are such an encouraging couple. Also, don't forget to join us for prayer Sunday morning in Room 145 from 9am-9:50. Come the whole time or come for 5 minutes. It'll bless you and us! One more thing, thank you so much for inviting people to Harvest. You guys are amazing. Lives are changing and momentum is knocking at our door. God is going to blow us away. He already has! Love you, Harvest! brent... More
ThuThursdayAprApril8th2010
Dinner With Harvest Friends
Harvest, Hey, just a quick note to say how encouraged I am at what God has done the last two Sundays at worship. God's shape for us is really coming together. It'll take time for God to make us all he wants us to be, but we're off to a great start. People are really beginning to see why this church has come together. We're trusting God to make us very fruitful. He will! Two more things... 1. See you Saturday at Home at Harvest at 10:30, actually, being there at 10:20 will help. 2. Check out the... More
FriFridayAprApril2nd2010
Good Friday and The Cross of Jesus Christ
Harvest, Sunday's resurrection celebration is not quite satisfying enough unless one understands the events and the implications of Good Friday . I Peter 2:24 says, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed." Never has so much been achieved through one man's death. Think about it. Forgiveness . Life. Hope. Obedience. Justice. Punishment . Grace. Jesus Christ's death on the cross was ultimate... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch31st2010
Sunday was amazing, Harvest
Harvest, Sunday was so refreshing. Amazing things happen when God's people are willing to be open. Matthew, Chris , and Haley, thank you so much for being real with all of us. Humility opens doors. A very large door was opened Sunday at Harvest. We grew as a church. We're deeper now. God is good to us. Easter Sunday is a few days away. Let's all resolve to use this week wisely. Let's prepare ourselves for a great celebration of our Lord's resurrection. He's alive! He lives and He lives in... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch24th2010
Happy Anniversary, Harvest!
Harvest, Okay, I'm just going to say it. I can't wait for this Sunday . It's going to be an encouraging conclusion to our first year, and a faith-generating beginning to year two. As usual, Jesus Christ is the real story. We're going to celebrate Jesus Christ Sunday morning . We're going to celebrate what God has done in the life of Matthew Burress, and also the marriage of Chris and Haley Peterson. It's going to be a powerful look into the life-changing power and love of God . People are going... More
FriFridayMarMarch19th2010
Matt Tye: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Matt Tye is next on Seven Questions/7 Answers . You may know Matt as our fearless worship leader on Sunday mornings . You're doing a great job, Matt...you too, worship team! Before you learn more about Matt's life, be encouraged by these quotes regarding Christianity... - “ Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. ” - C.S. Lewis - “ I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch17th2010
Harvest Spring Calendar and Membership
Harvest, So much going on at Harvest this spring! Hey, love the weather, lately. So sweet. Please check out these dates below. April is jammed pack. Good stuff, though. After you check out these dates and events, please notice the information following concerning your next opportunity to commit even further at Harvest. - Sunday, March 21, 2010 : Spotlight on God's design for each one of us. - Sunday, March 28, 2010 : One-Year Anniversary Service. Our theme is "God Wrote This Story." It'll be a... More
FriFridayMarMarch12th2010
Jesus: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, One of the things I love about Seven Questions, is that it reveals so much about people. It allows us to get to know them better. That sharing of personal knowledge creates intimacy. Jesus is doing this constantly for us in His Word, the Bible. Today's episode of Seven Questions highlights some of Jesus' words in scripture. Your life could change after reading this today. Be open to it. Also, please be reminded of some things happening at Harvest... - Prayer Sunday morning in room 145... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch10th2010
Random Thoughts and Two Sundays
Dear Harvest, You are really cool. Signed, Pastor Brent Now check this out... Random Thoughts ... - Everyone is always so concerned about how the big toe fits in new shoes. What about the other toes? Don't they matter? ...kind of feel bad for them. - Daylight Savings this weekend. I'm just going to stay up all night to watch the time change LIVE. I wonder what will happen? Is it anything like New Year's Eve ? - Going to stop giving people handshakes when I meet them for the first time. Instead,... More
FriFridayMarMarch5th2010
Mariah Halvorsen: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Mariah Halvorsen, a pretty cool 14 year old, is up next on Seven Questions. Thanks, Ryza Girl! Before you learn more about Mariah's life, please check out these great things at Harvest... - Prayer on Sunday morning in Room 145. Come for 5, 15 or 50, just come! - Please pray for the women attending the retreat this weekend. They'll have a blast! - Get your picture taken this Sunday at church for our virtual directory. - One-year Anniversary Service on March 28 . The theme for the... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch3rd2010
Experienced God This Week
Harvest, God's always working. God's always present. The Bible makes it so clear that God never leaves us. Check this out... Hebrews 13:5-6, ... "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" That's such an encouraging message . If God is for us, who can be against us? The Creator of the universe has decided to make you and me His own. He's chosen to call you by name and he has revealed to you His name. You... More
WedWednesdayFebFebruary24th2010
The Human Heart
Harvest, Thinking about the heart right now. Wondering about the human heart . Pondering my heart. Concerned about Jen Seever's heart. Saddened by Steve's heart. The Bible says a lot of things about the human heart. Check out a few verses for yourself, and then find out what's on my heart . Hebrews 13:9, "Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace , not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them." Hebrews 3:12,... More
FriFridayFebFebruary19th2010
Neil Lynch: Seven Questions/Seven Answers
Biography... Full Name: Neil Morgan Lynch Spouse: Adrea Marie (Hudson) Lynch Children: Meagan Rose (14), Kristen Elizabeth (12), Nelson Daniel (9) Place of Birth: Maywood, CA (that's in southern California) Birthday: August 27, 1969 Favorite Verse: Galatians 6:9 Where Do I Serve At Church: nowhere officially yet, but we've opened our home a few times to small group and youth group. Hobbies: softball, reading, politics, staying ahead of my children on technology Question #1: For work, you office... More
FriFridayFebFebruary12th2010
Jim Olson: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Jim Olson is up next on Seven Questions. First, check out these happenings at Harvest... - This Sunday Night : Adult Amazing Race and Dinner. RSVP to Jim and Mary Beth Olson at marybetholson@yahoo.com - February 21 and Three Sundays Following: Get your picture taken for our virtual church directory! Grab yourself or your family and get your picture snapped. - February 24 : Party at Brent and Lisa's Place. New or newer to Harvest? Get to know Brent and Lisa and other people from Harvest... More
ThuThursdayFebFebruary11th2010
Random and Not-So Random Thoughts...
Harvest, May use this stream of consciousness format once in a while. Anyway, feel like doing this today. Here you go... Random Thoughts... - Great small group last night. New couple visited from the neighborhood (Lee and Alissa). Love, love, love my small group! - Amazed by the people at Harvest. So humbled and so privileged to partner in ministry and do life with people who love the Lord so much. - Have several mice in our house right now. Lisa's not happy. Mice must die soon. Other than... More
FriFridayFebFebruary5th2010
Fred Gravening: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Fred Gravening is up next on Seven Questions. You've got to read his wedding anecdote. Priceless! Thanks, Fred. Before you learn more about Fred's life, please draw your attention to the following: First, I want to encourage all of us who are transitioning to Harvest from former ministries. Really, that's all of us. All of us can relate to the awkwardness of this change. It would be weird if we didn't feel some of the tension. Most everyone is going through the transition well and has... More
MonMondayFebFebruary1st2010
We're Giving Our Lives!
Harvest, Thank you for being so inviting, warm, caring, and loving to the Jacobs family Sunday morning . Thank you for singing to Cole for his birthday. Our vision is to "Give Our Lives to (Real) People...(Real) Life Change...and (Real) Worship." It's our heart to interact with, love, and influence people in each of our communities. It's happening at Harvest. It happened again yesterday morning. Thank you for being people who truly care about others. I'm so excited about the kind of people that... More
SatSaturdayJanJanuary30th2010
Kaley Johannesson: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Kaley Johannesson's our first teenager on Seven Questions. Thank you, Kaley! Before you get to know more about Kaley's life, please be reminded of a few things happening at Harvest... - Saturday Prayer and Fasting: Tomorrow, we've got 12+ hours of prayer covered. Praise God ! Also, if you feel led, join us in fasting from 7pm Saturday night through church on Sunday . It's such a great time to get focused on our dependence upon God. - February 14 Adult Scavenger Hunt and Dinner: All... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary27th2010
Vikings Game, Dinner and Fun, and More!
Harvest, What a game on Sunday ! I know. The outcome stunk. The Halvorsens send out a heartfelt "sorry" to all you rabid Vikes fans. Now you know what it's like to follow the Cubs. Why do we do it? It's a sickness, man. Love it, though. The Cubs will win it all one day. The Vikes will, too. Don't give up! Pitchers and catchers report soon. Go Cubs and Twins! Hey, here are some great things to make note of at Harvest... 2010 Ministry Goals... You might remember a few emails back, maybe eight... More
FriFridayJanJanuary22nd2010
Laura Peters: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Laura Peters is up next on Seven Questions. You'll find Laura to be very open and authentic in her answers. Thank you for that, Laura. It means a lot to know that you can be real with your Harvest family! Before you read about Laura, please take note of two things for Sunday... Haiti Envelopes: On Sunday , everyone will be receiving envelopes labeled "Haiti" on them. This is your opportunity to give toward the rebuilding in Haiti . The money received will go toward one of two things:... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary21st2010
Haiti Update and More...
Harvest, Like I said in my last email, I've got more for you this week... Haiti Update... Five (5) new people came forward this week with the desire to learn more about a trip to Haiti. God really seems to be stirring in your hearts. Praise God ! We'll be putting together a meeting for this soon. Who else out there is interested? Also, don't forget to contact Lacey Vennendaal ( laceyv_24@yahoo.com ) about signing up to pack food for Feed My Starving Children . Cole Jacobs and Family Sunday (Jan... More
TueTuesdayJanJanuary19th2010
Haiti, Feed My Starving Children, and Prayer...
Harvest, If things work as planned, I'm going to be sending a few more emails than usual this week. Why? There are things you need to know. There's a lot happening. God's working. Momentum is knocking on the door. All we can do is pray. It's all God's timing. God's leading this movement, and we know that God rewards faith and patience! Haiti ... On Sunday , I mentioned that our first choice to serve the people of Haiti is to put together a team of people from Harvest and send them out sometime... More
FriFridayJanJanuary15th2010
Joe Lomando: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Joe Lomando is next on Seven Questions/7 Answers . Thanks, Joe! First, however, I need to tell you about a few things happening at Harvest on Sunday ... 1.) Andy Gray: Andy will be sharing how God has changed his life recently in a Q&A format with me. It'll be so encouraging! 2.) Haiti: Our prayer focus on Sunday morning (9am-9:50am in Room 145) will continue to be on however God leads us to pray, but also on Haiti. It's got to be. Our hearts are collectively breaking over the... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary13th2010
It might be God working...
Harvest, Here's another seed for thought concerning the discussion "What's going to make us different from other churches?" ... we need to understand how to capture "God Momentum" when it comes to us. Take, for instance, prayer. On Sunday , we had a great turnout during the 9:00am-9:50am prayer time . I'm not sure how many were in there, my head was down and eyes closed, but it was a huge blessing. People just kept walking in the room. Now, we have one of two choices. First, we can choose to be... More
FriFridayJanJanuary8th2010
A "Thank You" From a Family
Harvest, We'll continue Seven Question/Seven Answers next week. For now, I wanted to send you an encouraging note from someone, outside our church, that received assistance from us this Christmas . I'm so grateful that God worked so powerfully through this ministry. Libbie and Brent, thank you for your vision and your work in this. God used it! People, you/we are the church. Never underestimate what God wants to do through you and me. Dear Harvest, I cannot even tell you what a blessing you... More
TueTuesdayJanJanuary5th2010
A question I'm asking in 2010...
Harvest, Here's a question I'm asking myself in 2010, "What's going to continue to make us different from other churches in the Twin Cities this year?" The question is not motivated from a heart of competition. You'll find that we'll partner with like-minded churches in the near future. I'm rooting for good, Bible-preaching churches to gain ground in 2010, not lose ground. The question comes more from a heart of stewardship. God's raised us up for a reason. He's raised us up for His glory, and... More
FriFridayDecDecember25th2009
Christmas Update
Harvest, The family and I are in Atlanta now. We're here with Lisa's sister's family. My mom and step-dad will join us from Florida tonight around 10pm . You're not going to like this, but the weather is a balmy 50-something degrees. This morning, we played the Christmas Eve Bowl (football) in the backyard. It was a blast. We'll eat dinner around 5:30 p.m . and open a few presents later tonight. We're really enjoying our break. The family and I trust you'll have a great break as well! Some... More
FriFridayDecDecember18th2009
Randy Piper: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Christmas is almost here. Personally, it's been the fastest year to Christmas ever. Lisa, Mariah, Nathan, Seth, Ainsley and I have been through so many changes this last year. Anyway, adjusting to all those changes just causes time to fly. There's really been no time to just quiet our spirits and look back on all that God has done. We're looking forward to reflecting a little bit more during Christmas. It'll be an encouraging exercise. Also, it should get us ready for 2010. Next year... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember16th2009
The Teachers at Maple Grove JH
Harvest, On Monday , there was a major buzz in the air throughout the hallways and inside the staff lounge at Maple Grove Junior High. Principal Laurel Anderson had made an announcement that morning that Harvest Bible Chapel was surprising the staff of 150 teachers, administrators, and support people with all kinds of goodies. It was so fun. The staff was all smiles and so thankful for our thoughtfulness. They wanted to make sure I said "Thank you" to all of you. So, Thank You, Harvest! You... More
FriFridayDecDecember11th2009
Mike Karlstad: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Mike Karlstad is next on Seven Questions! Mike made his answers short and to the point! Get to know Mike, you'll leave him wanting to love the Lord more deeply. He and Wendy love Jesus Christ with their lives. Love it! Mike's pictures is attached. Also, check out this link that describes some of the Evidences of God's Grace at Harvest West Mpls: http://www.harvestwestminneapolis.org/10354/blog/blog_id/130032/REAL_Stories_of_REAL_People_at_Harvest God's so good! Don't forget your... More
FriFridayDecDecember11th2009
Evidences of God's Grace at Harvest
Evidences of what God has accomplished at HBC-WM since we opened: Giftedness Perseverance and sacrificial love of the people serving (children’s, setup, etc) week after week Quality of leaders Answered prayers – people and trucks to pull the trailer Worship Team Love for serving Giving – financial provision Opportunity to serve others – and speak into others’ lives Volunteers in the children’s areas People see us as a church – not just a large study group – identity Facility - Maple Grove JH 7... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember9th2009
Snow and other thoughts...
Harvest, What's so great about snow? Some people may say " nothing is great about snow!" Some people may say "sledding!" Some people may say "staying home from work." Here's what God says about snow in Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow ; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." Maybe you hate the snow. That's cool. That's your opinion. However, I hope you take comfort from God's... More
FriFridayDecDecember4th2009
Amanda Ellison: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Full Name: Amanda Ellison Spouse: James Ellison Children: Caleb 12; Seth 11; Noah 11; Sadie 5; Emma 5 Place of Birth: Owatonna, Minnesota Favorite Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding, in ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths Where Do I Serve At Church : Worship ministry. We also have the priveledge of watching Cory & Luara Peters kids on Sunday nights so they can go to Youth Group. Hobbies: Doing endless... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember3rd2009
Together for the Gospel!
Harvest, "I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:3-6) We may not be the Apostle Paul and the church in Philippi, but we're partnering together for the gospel. I love that! There's just nothing more eternal than serving... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember3rd2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Seven
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: I was helped by a friend a during my junior year of high school. I was going through a tough time. My parents argued a lot, my best friend started dating a boy I thought was very bad for her and she spent all her time with him and I just felt like giving up. At this point, I was at the point where God didn't matter much to me anymore. But then my friend Naomi set me straight and told me that... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember1st2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Six
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: I went through some very tough financial times a number of years ago, and a couple from my church would send me a few dollars in the mail every once in awhile when I least expected it, and they also pray for me regularly to this day. Also, my mother was a great help to me when I was going through those tough financial times. It is encouraging to know that people are thinking of and praying for... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember1st2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Six
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: It was during the time of my divorce and my pastor helped me out throughout the day when I needed someone to reach out to. He was there to listen to me and to read the Bible to me. He helped me get through a very difficult time in my life. 2nd: Share a story about a time when you helped someone? How did the other party respond? You Answer: This was also during my divorce and I was coming home... More
MonMondayNovNovember30th2009
A Time for Thanks...
Harvest, Allow this passage to wash over you this week as you prepare to give thanks to the Lord for all He is and all He's done... Psalm 100:1-5, A PSALM FOR GIVING THANKS. Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! 2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! 3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him;... More
SunSundayNovNovember29th2009
Amy Tye: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Full Name: Amy Lyn Tye Spouse: Matt (your friendly neighborhood worship director :) Children: Ethan (8), Elauria (4), Elias (2 1/2 months) Favorite Verse: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:19-20 Where Do I Serve At Church: Higher Ground Children's Ministry, Children's Ministry... More
SunSundayNovNovember29th2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Five
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: It was Christmas time and I was living in Atlanta , Georgia and I did not know a soul. It was shortly after my divorce so I was a single Mom and raising my daughter who was only 5. She would talk constantly about the toys Santa was bringing her because she had been such a good girl this year. Being a single mom, funds were tight and most of the time there was barely money for milk. I had no... More
SunSundayNovNovember29th2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Four
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: we were struggling financially and someone gave us money in an envelope in our mailbox. It was anonymous but it showed up just when we needed it. It was very humbling and has made us want to be more generous because were blessed. 2nd: Share a story about a time when you helped someone? How did the other party respond? You Answer: We were able to help someone else in need financially (paying it... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember24th2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Three
1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: When your wife washed all my dishes after the recipe party last weekend!!!! Huge! 2nd: Share a story about a time when you helped someone? How did the other party respond? You Answer: I covered for my supervisor, Lisa, at work when she had to go stay with her dad to move him. She was thankful and has really opened up to me since. 3rd: How has God specifically provided for you lately? Give... More
MonMondayNovNovember23rd2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part Two
A man from Harvest... 1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: While living in California, we survived the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. Our apartment was damaged, so two different families allowed us to live in their homes for 3 months while we could make other arrangements. Those families sacrificed their personal space to help us out. 2nd: Share a story about a time when you helped someone? How did the other party respond? You... More
MonMondayNovNovember23rd2009
Stirring Authenticity: Part One
Seven Questions/7 Answers: Stirring our hearts for authenticity! A woman from Harvest... 1st: Share a story about a time when you were helped by someone? How did it enourage you? Your Answer: We were both out of work a couple years ago and we were unable to get any Christmas gifts for our children. The tree was empty - the day before Christmas Eve a relative that we had not really been in contact with showed up with a bunch of gifts for the kids. It was so heart warming to know my children... More
FriFridayNovNovember20th2009
Special Addition: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Get ready for a special addition of Seven Questions! Below are a set of questions prepared for everyone to answer. Please answer them, email to me, and I will post them on a blog on our website. I will not be posting anyone's name with their answers. It's totally confidential. Anyway, I want to continue to stir in our hearts the importance of being open and authentic with each other, even if we're just taking baby steps;) Also, I want us to get stirring about helping others. So,... More
ThuThursdayNovNovember19th2009
Holidays, Already?
Harvest, Thanksgiving already? You can't be serious. The holidays are approaching quickly. Have you bought that turkey yet? Are you ready for Christmas music to take over the airways? True story alert: Matt Tye, our very cool worship guy, admitted to me that he's been listening to Christmas music for 6 weeks already. I know, right?! Personally, I have to wait until after Thanksgiving. I try to take my holidays one day at a time. Matt, how do you do it? Anyway, I do love Christmas. I love it for... More
SatSaturdayNovNovember14th2009
Ken Paulsen: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Biography... Full Name: Kenneth Alf Paulsen Spouse: Gina Children: Luke (11), Peter (9), Anna (7) Place of Birth: Brooklyn , NY Favorite Verse: I know that a whole book of the Bible is not one verse. But I have been challenged by the Book of 1 John. Just ask our small group. We’ve talked a lot about these verses lately! I love the tender- yet direct- words that John uses. This section of Scripture has really challenged my thinking of how you can know for sure if you are really saved. Read it... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember11th2009
Lots Happening!
Harvest, Wow, lots of stuff going on...lots of good stuff. God's so good to us. Matt Tye, our faithful worship dude, told me this week that his company donated a Mac computer to our worship ministry. It's a value worth over $4k. Only God can do that. Thank you, Lord! That brings up a good question, "Will I receive a record of my sacrificial giving in 2009 for tax return purposes?" Good question, isn't it? ...especially since a lot of donations are given at the end of the year. The... More
FriFridayNovNovember6th2009
Lisa Halvorsen: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Lisa Halvorsen is up this week on Seven Questions. You've got to see her picture. You're gonna go "awww." I guarantee it! First, a few things about building our community (i.e., friendships at Harvest), and serving the community... Thank you for all the emails sent to me regarding ideas for building our community and serving the community. I'm going to make sure we elevate the importance of both of these in the weeks and months to come. Here are some very initial steps: - Serving The... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember4th2009
Believe!
Harvest, Our focus or theme for the year is Believe! Our key verse is I Corinthians 2:9, "No eye has seen, nor ear has heard, nor the heart of man imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." In other words, God has some great stuff for us. In heaven? Yes. But also NOW! It's time we really Believe! that. So, here's what's happening in this: 1.) We're believing the Lord to personally work powerfully in each of our lives; and 2.) We're believing the Lord to lead our church into a time... More
FriFridayOctOctober30th2009
Gordon Ellison: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, Sir Gordon Ellison is up today on Seven Questions. A picture of Gordon is attached. A few things before you read about Gordon's life: - Time Change: Don't forget to change your clocks Saturday night. We get some extra rest. Yay! - We'll be taking communion after the first song on Sunday. Come ready to worship our Lord! - I love the mix of people God's bringing to Harvest. Continue to reach out to people at church. We're a family, let's get to know each other. Meet someone new on... More
MonMondayOctOctober26th2009
I'm a person, too!
Harvest, I'm going to somewhat put aside my pastor/leader hat for a moment and express myself from a person point of view. I'm still a person, you know?! We're growing, and I love what God is doing at Harvest. New people are committing to the movement every week it seems. That's only by God's grace. Our children's and youth areas are growing. Giving is starting to get to a point where we can build some momentum. Small groups are off and running. Sunday mornings are really becoming vertical. I... More
SatSaturdayOctOctober24th2009
It's Not Easy Going Deep!
Harvest, We've been working hard on Sunday mornings to cover some very deep concepts of the Bible. However, be encouraged, these heavy concepts are also very practical. I've been very ambitious teaching God's Word at a level that is usually found at a seminary level, or perhaps a very deep Bible study level...very deep. I've done this for a purpose. I'm laying a foundation for the overarching theme of the Bible. It's so practical and will become so clear to you, that you will be able to open... More
FriFridayOctOctober16th2009
Sara Mehrer: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Biography... Full Name: Sara Troutt Mehrer Spouse: Phil Mehrer Place of Birth: Lincoln, NE Favorite Verse: Right now in our promise series this is the promise I am clinging to! Isaiah 43:1-3: 1 But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you... More
WedWednesdayOctOctober14th2009
So Many Opportunities At Harvest!
Harvest, Warning: I'm willing to challenge our church. Can you handle it? Here it goes... There's so much that I enjoy about Gordon Ellison's "announcement and greeting" ministry to each of us on Sunday mornings. However, one thing I'd like to highlight is the way Gordon teaches all of us about "opportunities." Do you notice that, too? He's always telling us how these things that come up are "opportunities" to serve the Lord. I love that! The selfish side of me hears about all these needs... More
FriFridayOctOctober9th2009
Shana Ness: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Harvest, here is another installment of Seven Questions/7 Answers . I'm loving this, by the way. But first, a few things: 1. A big welcome to the Crittenden's and the Lynch's for committing this week to make Harvest their place to grow, serve, and worship. I need to start doing this every week. It's exciting to see how God is growing us. I know, there's a bunch of you that I've missed. We're thankful for your commitments! 2. Women's event coming up on November 7 at Carrie Johannesson's house.... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober6th2009
Strong Faith...
Harvest, It's been a huge blessing to hear how excited people are to grow deeper. God's working in our lives. People are changing. It's so encouraging. Don't underestimate the reason for and the timing of God raising up this new movement. People with weak faith might not be able to see or discern that God is in control of this church. They may not see that God has a deep purpose for this church. You and I are not creating this church. God is creating this church, through the power of the Holy... More
FriFridayOctOctober2nd2009
Brent Halvorsen: Seven Questions/7 Answers
Favorite Verse: Isaiah 41:10 (Really, though, I have so many.) Where Do I Serve At Church: You'll see me upfront a lot. I might be the pastor. Hobbies: Golf, Coaching Sports, Softball, Basketball, and Reading. Question #1: What is an early childhood memory? Brent: I'll never forget waiting for the bus at Wrigley Field. It was my mom, my brother, and me. There was a huge crowd waiting for several buses after the game. The Cubs probably lost. Don't remember. Anyway, a guy who had too much to... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember29th2009
Thank Goodness God is in Control!
Harvest, Life "stuff" happens so quickly. It seems as if our emotional memories last only as long as weekly or even daily news cycles. You know what I mean? As long as we see it on television or hear it on the radio, then we'll be affected by it. We'll think about it and perhaps even be touched by it. Media, though, shuffles new stories and new people in and out of our lives at a very rapid rate. How do we remember everything? How do we continue to stay prayerfully involved in people's lives?... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember17th2009
Grateful for Each of You!
Harvest, Last Sunday was a total blast! Thank you to the worship team, prayer team, ushers, set-up team, children's team, and, of course, Libbie, Todd, and Matt for giving us an authentic look into their lives. God is working. It's so encouraging to see and experience. Thank you so much to all of you for your amazing attitudes and your willingness to see God do a work here at Harvest that will impact lives for eternity. It's a great privilege to worship and serve with Christ followers that... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember10th2009
Oh my, many things are happening right now!
Harvest, God's so amazing. God's working so powerfully. I love the way our church family is growing together. It's a sweet thing to experience. We're getting to know each other more DEEP-ly. It's a huge blessing to see friendships form, grow, and bear much fruit. Praise to out great God and King! Okay, here are some updates for you. The first update is actually pretty heavy... A Prayer Request... Jay Anderson and I coach 4th grade football. We coach with another man named Rick Crittenden. Rick... More
FriFridaySepSeptember4th2009
Two Sweet Things at Harvest...
Harvest, Two sweet things happening at Harvest... Harvest Games... - When: Sunday, September 13 immediately after church - Where: The Edge --- 121 Cheshire Lane, Suite 400 in Minnetonka, MN (The Edge is located near the intersection of 494 and 394. Take the Carlson Parkway exit off 494 (go east). Take a right at the Holiday gas station and go 2 blocks to 121 Cheshire Lane, #400) - What: Grilled food, games, prizes, Vikings game, and lots of great memories (Bring a change of clothes and gym... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember1st2009
Our Best Days Are Yet Ahead!
Harvest, God has only begun to reveal to us His grace through this new church movement. Our best days are yet ahead of us! Let's make this verse our own as we trust the Lord together to do a great work at Harvest and in the Twin Cities: Habakkuk 1:5, "Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told." "...would not believe?" Perhaps we'd be wise to start believing! Our best days are yet ahead. Praise God! Okay,... More
ThuThursdayAugAugust20th2009
One of Our Own in the Star Tribune!
Harvest, check out Joe's pretty picture in the paper! Minnesota Vikings fan Joe Lomando, of Plymouth, Minn., cheers after seeing new Vikings quarterback Brett Favre at the team's NFL football training cam - Yahoo! Eurosport UK He does the same thing at worship on Sunday mornings w/o the jersey! brent
WedWednesdayAugAugust19th2009
Building Community
Harvest, Tonight marks our second Harvest Gathering! I can't wait to get to know each individual a little better. Community and deep fellowship are such a huge part of the Christian walk. Christianity isn't a solo endeavor. God means for us to walk the journey together. That's beginning to happen at Harvest. People are starting to connect in deeper ways and relationships are growing. Praise God! Here's a great verse to really cement our beliefs in the importance of community... Ecclesiastes... More
TueTuesdayAugAugust11th2009
Real Life Change!
Harvest, Our baptism celebration on Sunday was amazing! Six people professed their devotion to Jesus Christ. Six people confessed that life before Jesus was filled with confusion and junk. Six people admitted that Jesus is the center of their lives. Six people displayed the glory of God as they stood before us and evidenced real life change . 2 Corinthians 5:17 states the change so powerfully, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has... More
WedWednesdayAugAugust5th2009
We Get To Claim God As Our Own!
Harvest, We get to claim God as our own! That's an amazing truth. I'm overwhelmed by that statement this morning. Read Psalm 118:24-29. Notice how drenched it is with joy. Notice how immersed it is with hope. Notice how saturated it is with worship. Our relationship with God is immeasurably deep. The depths of God's promises, of God's love, will never be exhausted. God's blessings to us will go on forever and ever and ever and ever and have no end. Meditate on this passage today... Psalm... More
WedWednesdayJulJuly29th2009
Harvest Updates - July 29, 2009
Harvest, It's been a great 4 days of connecting with many of you! Saturday, we spent some time with the youth (and their parents) at Elm Creek Reserve. Sunday, we had a nice dinner at Jim and Mary Beth Olson's house. Monday, we had a townhouse full of people at our very first Harvest Gathering. It was great! Don't forget we still have two more dates: August 19 and August 24. Tuesday night, we had a great time eating with Dan and Shana Ness and kids. Tonight, we'll be hosting prayer at our... More
MonMondayJulJuly20th2009
Harvest is Authentic!
Harvest, Over the next four Sundays--including yesterday-- we're going to be digging deeper into the "what are we all about" question at Harvest Bible Chapel. The first Sunday was all about us being a church of Authenticity . That's the culture of our church. We're real. We're genuine. We're filled with people who are real, genuine, and authentic. God is giving us authentic people to begin and build this church. In fact, people, will be attracted to our church because of our authenticity... More
WedWednesdayJulJuly15th2009
Summer is Rocking at Harvest!
Harvest, Summer sizzles! Summer rocks! Summer rules! Summer slams! Summer... What? What do you say about the summer? What have all of us been doing this summer? I want to know. Check out the "Summer" blog ( http://www.harvestwestminneapolis.org/BlogEntry.aspx?entry_id=159373 ) and respond by telling me/us what kind of fun you've been having this summer. Lisa and I need more ideas about all the fun stuff to do in this great state! Summer hasn't slowed God's Work at Harvest. God continues to... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly7th2009
God Keeps Working at Harvest!
Harvest, Here's another reminder about our "big" God from the book of Deuteronomy. Deuteronomy 10:17 says, "For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe." There is no one like our God. Praise the Lord for his power and might! Praise the Lord for working personally and specifically in each of our lives, and also in the life of our church. Here are some things that God is doing, and opportunities coming... More
ThuThursdayJulJuly2nd2009
Chapter Two: Becoming a Church That Lasts
Harvest, Good news. We're up to five baptisms now. Praise God! We also have our first conversion from inside the church body!!! Yes . Other news... On Sunday, we began a new series called "Chapter Two: Becoming a Church That Lasts." As I said Sunday, I believe that this will be one of the most important series in the history of our church. Why? One, because the truths and application shared will be timeless (God's Word). Two, there is so much at stake right now. We're a new church and we're... More
ThuThursdayJunJune25th2009
Updates for Your Church!
Harvest, Here are some great things that the Lord is accomplishing at Harvest! Brand-New Youth Group Starting to Gather This Sunday Night... - Meeting at the school at 6:30 pm on Sunday night. - Hanging out at Dave and Buster's. - Teenagers, invite your friends! Baptisms... - Baptism celebration coming this Summer! - So far, we have three people that are going to get baptized. - Are you ready to be baptized? Let me know. Backyard Bible Bashes... - We've had three home gatherings so far. - Thank... More
TueTuesdayJunJune23rd2009
Still Thinking About You, Men!
Harvest Men (A big shout-out to the women out there as well), God will not let you off of my mind and out of my heart. I believe God is calling me to grow even closer to the men in our church. You have so much potential. God has wired you, as men (as men who are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ), to take back ground in this world for the Kingdom of God. God is doing great things through the men of Harvest. We would not exist right now as a church without our men. I praise God for you! So... More
WedWednesdayJunJune17th2009
Father's Prove Their Love Historically
Harvest, Father's Day is drawing near. Hurry and get those neckties and golf balls before they're sold out! One of my favorite gifts from my son, Nathan, was a bobblehead fishermen with a place in the face area to put a picture of Nathan and me. I laughed so hard when I opened the gift. I wasn't laughing at Nathan or the gift. I was laughing with great joy over Nathan's heart. It was so cool. I don't know exactly what Nathan was thinking when he bought the gift, but I believe that his desire... More
TueTuesdayJunJune2nd2009
Harvest Updates
Harvest, Love you guys! I love how you love God's Word. I love how you want to hear the entire truth of God's Word. We are like-minded. That's so awesome. God is so awesome! Well, here are some updates for all of us... This Week... - The boys and I leave tomorrow for Indianapolis. We can't wait to reunite with the girls! - A few prayer requests for us: 1.) Pray that Mariah (13) will close up relationships well in Shelbyville and be encouraged moving here and meeting new friends; 2.) Pray for... More
ThuThursdayMayMay28th2009
Just Try Not To Pray!
Harvest, "I don't like my boss! I can't stand my neighbor! I'd do anything to get a different nose! Why do all Minnesota drivers drive like morons! Why can't my kids listen better! What is wrong with the public officials in this town? How long am I going to have to put up with this spouse of mine?!" Get it out now, people! You have another 16 hours to complain as much as you'd like. The test is coming, though. As of 8am tomorrow morning until 5pm tomorrow evening, all of us are going on... More
ThuThursdayMayMay21st2009
God's Grace Through People
Harvest, God's grace through people . That's the thought that has occupied my mind over the last 10 days. God has been so good to my family during this time of chaos. I'm not sure what His purposes are in the madness, but I do know that God loves me very much. God has shown us grace through people . My body is tired. My mind is spent. My heart, though, is full. I wonder how people get through difficult times without knowing God personally. He's my rock. He proves himself faithful in every... More
WedWednesdayMayMay13th2009
Homeless but Hopeful
Harvest, "Our apartment building is on fire!" That's the call I got Monday night around 8:15pm while coaching Seth's little league team. I ran out of practice and drove to the apartment as fast as I could. Police and firefighters were scattered everywhere. I had to park a distance away from the complex and run to see the damage. Some people lost everything. I couldn't believe the scene. More public service people than I have ever seen in one place. News stations were there. People everywhere... More
TueTuesdayMayMay5th2009
Mother's Day
Harvest, This Sunday's a very special day. Not all of us are mothers, of course, but all of us have or have had mothers. Mothers are amazing. I'm so thankful for my mom, Cathy Halvorsen (now Cathy Oakes). She loves my brother Kurt and I very much, and she protected us as children with everything she had. If it wasn't for her perseverance and prayers, Kurt and I would not be the men of God we are today. BTW, my brother Kurt is a youth pastor in Naperville, IL. He has three kids and his wife's... More
ThuThursdayAprApril30th2009
Harvest is Excited about Harvest!
Harvest, Good morning! I'm flying high today after being with my wife, Lisa, for three days. We had such a great time. We met in Chicago to attend Harvest University. Harvest University is an annual event where every Harvest church (about 36 right now) gathers to encourage one another and learn from one another. Next year's event is April 19-21. I believe. Anyway, it would be awesome to send as many people as possible to learn more about Harvest Bible Chapel, and also to get to know people from... More
TueTuesdayAprApril21st2009
We Need God
Harvest, God is so good to us! God is working and we're totally dependent upon Him. This is the best place that you and I could reside. You and I are pressed, even forced, to be completely dependent upon God. Nothing will be accomplished apart from God's grace. Only by God's grace, will we continue to meet every Sunday. Only by God's grace, will lives change every week. Only by God's grace, will we influence people for all of eternity. God promises to build His church, and we are putting all of... More
WedWednesdayAprApril15th2009
Church Ablaze
Harvest, Sunday we're starting a new series called Church Ablaze. The theme verse for the series is: Acts 6:7, "And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly..." Please pray that God will work powerfully in our church during this series. It's my strong, very strong, desire to see the unbelieving believe, to see the wandering believer refocused, and to see all believers passionately living for Jesus Christ. God is working in our church. We've... More
ThuThursdayAprApril9th2009
God of Wonders
Harvest, One of the great things about following Jesus is just wondering, or even dreaming, about Him. When I was a kid, I used to try to figure out how God could have come into existence. I could not wrap my mind around it. Part of the reason it's so hard to think about that is because God never came into existence. He has always been. What? Come on. How do you explain that? You don't. That's why he's God. The thing that I have come to understand is "why would I want to be able to figure out... More
WedWednesdayAprApril1st2009
We've Launched!
Launch Team, Thank you so much for your prayers, your hard work Sunday, and your intense love for Jesus Christ. It never ceases to amaze me when I see God's people serve Him. Lisa and I are humbled by your commitment. We are learning to be stronger believers because of all of you. I love Jesus more because of you guys. Lives are changing. My life is changing. Change is good. God changes people. I need change. You need change. Well, things are going to really change for the boys and me this... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch24th2009
God Just Continues To Give To His Church!
Harvest, God is so kind to us. Give praise to Him today! In the last few days, God has provided over $24,000. Praise Him with everything you've got. There is nothing like being in the presence of God's power. Meditate on this passage in Ephesians 3... Ephesians 3:14-19, 14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch12th2009
God Loves Sacrifice
Harvest, No doubt you've heard about the tragedy coming out of Germany. A gunman shot and killed several people inside a school. Normally, this is not something that I want to fixate on. However, there is an element to this story that is near and dear to the heart of God. Please read the article below... WINNENDEN, Germany (CNN) -- Students jumped out of windows and locked themselves in classrooms as a former pupil rampaged through a German school with a gun, killing at least a dozen people... More
MonMondayMarMarch9th2009
Faith must become action!
James chapter 2 is likely the most oft quoted passage when arguing for God's point that faith must become action! Here, read it for yourself... James 2:18-23, " But someone will say, "You have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works . You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe- and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless ? Was not Abraham our father... More
ThuThursdayMarMarch5th2009
God is so gracious!
God is so gracious! Do you ever think to yourself..."Self, is it possible that more of God could pour into more of me?" Do you know what I mean? I'm prone to sometimes think that I could not possibly experience God's grace any deeper. That's such a lie. Perhaps at best, it's called stagnation. I don't like to be stagnant. Stagnant water isn't fresh. Why? ...because there's no new water being poured into the old water. Old water smells. Old water is dirty. Old water has candy wrappers floating... More
TueTuesdayFebFebruary24th2009
God is moving in West Minneapolis!
God has been gathering together people of all shapes and sizes to begin a new movement called Harvest Bible Chapel West Minneapolis. God might be calling you to help launch this new church on March 29, 2009 at Maple Grove Junior High School. Do you want to learn more about joining the launch team before March 29? Contact Pastor Brent Halvorsen at halvorsen6@yahoo.com . God is so good!
SatSaturdayFebFebruary7th2009
Get Updates Here
Check this blog regularly for updates from Harvest Bible Chapel Minneapolis.
|
|