Tags» fly fishing trip, montana
The Seduction of the West
So we’ll be in airports most of the day making the trek back to Nashville. I had an absolute blast the last few days as Matt and I fly fished the beautiful waters of the Big Horn River in Fort Smith, Montana.
I think it was George Washington Carver who once said, “I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.”
Well God’s signal was loud and clear out here. I really needed to be reminded of the stunning beauty of God’s undisturbed creation. It was good for my soul.
Do you have a place you’ve been where you feel God speaks to you through its beauty?
79 Comments:
Love the pics!!! Looks like an awesome time!!!
My family laughs at me because every now and then, I have to find a spot of ‘country’ to drive through so I can BREATHE!!! And there is not much left around Dallas! This country girl may never get used to suburban living!!!
Thankful that God could refresh you in this way to continue sending out His Word!
bluegoose’s last blog post..Illness and Mommyhood
[Reply]
bluegoose
6:28 am
Yes, it’s my parents’ ranch in Kansas. I wrote about it here: http://www.iloveddeeper.com/2008/06/24/kansas-08-part-2-via-con-dios/
It’s far more eloquently written there about why I find God there, and why that is important to me than I think I can muster this morning – Monday brain fog and all!
Beautiful pictures, Pete!
Nikki Jo’s last blog post..Enough Puppy Dog Tails
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Nikki Jo
6:32 am
Canada is without a shadow of a doubt at the top of my list of places where God spoke to me through its beauty, magnificence and majesty. I had great sightings of bald eagles when I was there, and both through the mention of eagles in Scripture as well as their appearance in my dreams, God has spoken deep into my heart about where I am going and His will for my life.
Other than Canada, I would have to say my own back garden. If you want to check out some of the beauty through which I can enjoy God’s awesomeness, creativity and sheer perfection, check out my post “Wake up and smell the roses! Old wineskins no longer fit.” There are some pictures in that post which I took in my back and front garden.
Be blessed!
ransom33’s last blog post..I will ALWAYS cherish the First Time
[Reply]
ransom33
6:54 am
Pete- you need to visit the breathtaking GARDEN OF THE GODS in Southern Illinois! It’s one of the nation’s best kept secrets!
Google it! It’s nestled within the Shawnee National Forest which is only a couple hours from you.
*Your pictures are great. How did you catch the shot of the gymnast fish?
sherri’s last blog post..Cutting to the front of the line
[Reply]
sherri
6:57 am
Easy. Washington State. Although the entire Northwest works too, and that includes Montana. Your pictures are making me very home sick.
Sarah’s last blog post..National Ice Cream Day
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Sarah
6:58 am
God speaks pretty loud from the Redwoods or any place that make me feel really small.
Vince’s last blog post..Why are sermons so long?
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Vince
7:20 am
Honestly, my grandfather’s farm has always been the place in which I feel most at peace. The simplistic living, the living off the land mentality and the lake surrounded by woods and crops. It’s just where He speaks to me and where I go to seek solace.
~Kate
Katy’s last blog post..10 Quiet Cousins…..
[Reply]
Katy
7:57 am
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado for me
Aaron’s last blog post..HP Technology Helps Autistic Children
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Aaron
7:57 am
Did Jeremy Cowart go fishing with you?
[Reply]
mpt
8:00 am
Two places: a quiet beach (NorCal coast) in the early morning and our property out in Nevada on the north side of Tahoe – we get amazing views that go for endless miles. Both places show me just how big our God is – that he can create such amazing beauty in such a large scale.
I had to learn when I moved to TN to see God in other elements – it took time to find them, but those other two places are still my “spiritual home on earth”.
[Reply]
Paula
8:03 am
You either have a really expensive camera or you have some photography skills. I’m always so impressed with your pics. I never capture moments that well.
Megan’s last blog post..To Wii or Not to Wii
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Megan
8:39 am
My place to be close to God is near the ocean. It is a great example of His vastness and my smallness.
[Reply]
Heidi Reed
8:39 am
Have you ever been to Lake Ouachita in Arkansas? It is absolutely beautiful. The serenity. The simple calmness. It makes me stop, breathe, and enjoy God and His creation. My family goes every year in late September, when there aren’t crowds. Love it!
Alyssa’s last blog post..Hiatus Over
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Alyssa
8:46 am
yup.. you’ve captured many of the reasons we picked up and opened up an inn in Montana
thanx
gp
[Reply]
gp
9:04 am
@heide reed, the ocean does it for me as well!
[Reply]
pete wilson
9:19 am
Iwo Jima
jody’s last blog post..Will the real slim shady please cast the first stone?
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jody
9:33 am
Great photos!
I love going to the ocean on vacation. It’s just so powerful to listen to the waves and gaze out onto the vast horizon–it really says to me “God is!” (and furthermore, “God is IN CHARGE”).
Jan Connair’s last blog post..ANTM?
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Jan Connair
10:14 am
@Megan, it’s a middle of the road digital camera. Matt took a few of the pictures as well. Hard to take a bad one when you’re working with landscape like that.
[Reply]
Pete Wilson
10:25 am
Hands down Hawaii. It was the one place I felt at absolutely at peace. When we got there I remember thinking this must be what Eden was like.
DisneyCyndi’s last blog post..Sunday Mind Dump (through the eyes of the wife).
[Reply]
DisneyCyndi
10:50 am
That looks like a great time… makes me jealous in a good way.
I took my family to Hocking Hills which is a part of Ohio that has some beautiful hiking, caves, and waterfalls. We had a picnic lunch, played some games, and then spent some time climbing up and down the trails. It was gorgeous and our family was blessed for the time together and for the time spent away from the ‘city life’. May have to do that several more times before the summer and fall are over… just need to figure out a way to get my oldest daughter around on some of the harder trails. Her wheelchair can’t go all the places that we walking people can go. I would carry her on my back if I could find a backpack made to carry a teenager. I used to have a backpack that I could carry her in when she was smaller. I miss those days. She would tell me stories as I carried her along the trails.. what great memories.
Tony York’s last blog post..Northern Church done Southern Style
[Reply]
Tony York
10:55 am
I have to admit upstate New York or the Poconos. Thr place I go are devoid of technology or any other distraction. Those place make realize for simple life is…and how complex we make it:)
Michael Holmes’s last blog post..HOW GRATITUDE GOES TO THE BOTTOM LINE
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Michael Holmes
12:24 pm
Meant to say “those places” instead of “thr place”
Michael Holmes’s last blog post..HOW GRATITUDE GOES TO THE BOTTOM LINE
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Michael Holmes
12:26 pm
anytime I am in the mountains or near the ocean, I feel that God is so near! The hubby and I are headed out on Friday morning for a three-week trek out west, and I am so excited to experience this I can’t even stand it. All of us need to unplug once in a while and see God’s creation in its truest form. Thanks for sharing your trip with us!
Hilary’s last blog post..The Adventure of a Lifetime
[Reply]
Hilary
1:03 pm
Great photos. The blue water and sky are amazing!
Melissa Irwin’s last blog post..Out & About
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Melissa Irwin
1:13 pm
Wow! Those are some amazing pics.
I actually live seconds away from the ocean and minutes from mountains in one of the most beautiful places on earth. But, the problem I have is taking the time to slow down the business of life right now and have the time to tune into God and nature like that. I can hardly wait to send my hubby away on a trip like that … Looks like so much fun. Thanks for sharing it.
Jenn’s last blog post..My Kids Have An Amazing Dad
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Jenn
2:34 pm
Hey Pete…
Since we are at the beach right now…I’d definately have to say the beach has always been “my place” where I just think WOW! It is such a God spot for me and I love it. I would love to see so many treasures of the US. What a gift you were given. Welcome home.
Blessings~
Fran’s last blog post..Summer, I love you.
[Reply]
Fran
3:43 pm
Prince Edward Island, Canada is beautiful. According to locals, there are more shades of green on the island than there are in Ireland.
[Reply]
emily
3:44 pm
Wow -so thankful for the pictures you shared – especially of the fish you caught! This is on my ‘bucket list’ and my husband has it on his as well. Now I want to do this with him more than ever!!
I love to be still with God -on the ocean-in a kayack- first light of day. God speaks to me through the gentle lapping of the waves, the birds taking flight and the stillness and peace of quiet that surrounds me.
[Reply]
Donna
4:34 pm
Yeah for Canada Ransom!!! My favourite “God Place” is Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Hands down the most beautiful place on Earth. ( it is about an hour or so south of Halifax NS for all you Americans that may try to find it one day.) I found it a few years ago on a road trip that my daughter and I took to the east coast.
[Reply]
Laurie D
5:31 pm
Pete, I live in the Ozarks in soutwestern MO. Table Rock lake and the surrounding area is a great place to see the Lord, but just about anywhere you drive here is. Where I grew up, in north central IL, I could always count on a great sunset to restore me or I would go to a friend’s farm and walk through the woods.
Julie’s last blog post..Satan is a pervert
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Julie
6:56 pm
@Laurie D, I was in Nova Scotia 5 or 6 years ago. Amazing place!
pete wilson’s last blog post..The Seduction of the West
[Reply]
pete wilson
7:42 pm
I am here back home on the island of Guam visiting. There is nothing that brings me closer to the divine than sitting on the beach looking out at the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean that brings me closer to the divine.
JP’s last blog post..Guam Liberation Day and A Tribute to the Crew of Raider 21
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JP
8:08 pm
Sweet pix Pete! It’s been a bit since I’ve checked in. don’t worry – there’s still love.
Great to see what you’ve been up to.
[Reply]
mike
9:02 pm
Pete, I grew up in Steamboat Springs Colorado…I lived in the magesty of God’s wonder for many years!! I love every season in the mountains…Spectacular. I miss it a lot…I am hoping that we can go back in the next few years and take all the children to share the beauty with them.
Anna Maria Island Florida, my grand mother lived there for 34 plus years. It is a place I have been going to for a very long time…The sound of the Gulf of Mexico is like God talking to me…It has been amazing to take my children, since Anya was a baby, every year and watch my children enjoy the same beach that I have enjoyed for 34 years…It is something that I can’t describe in words, it’s such a circle of life thing…
[Reply]
Lorrie Harden
10:45 pm
Now THIS is how you spend a sabbatical, and you can even justify it spiritually (fishers of…) which makes you, Pete, ever the evangelist. We’ll expect you to follow with pictures of hushpuppies and coleslaw…
[Reply]
Tom
8:31 am
BEAUTIFUL!
I’ve got to get you on some big fish like that next time you’re out in CO.
Glad you were able to get away.
kc’s last blog post..Lead with Love
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kc
10:12 am
@Lorrie harden, that is so cool to pass the tradition on to your kids!
@kev, let’s do it man!
[Reply]
pete wilson
11:08 am
WOW!!! Those are some great pictures!!!
For me its the Sea of Galilee. It is just breathtaking and amazing there. The beauty of it is one thing, but the spiritual impact it has on me is another. I lOVE to be there and just soak it all in!!!
Maureen’s last blog post..Oppression = Multiplication
[Reply]
Maureen
1:01 pm
The vastness of the ocean…the serenity of the mountains…or the quietness of a walk through the neighborhood. It is awesome to experience his presence through the beauty of creation. Just a glimpse of heaven
Jessica’s last blog post..A Little Girl…
[Reply]
Jessica
1:53 pm
Pete,
Wow… you make a compelling point about God and His awesome creation…. too bad it doesn’t work it’s way into your messages in that way… you generally keep Him downsized to fit the needs of your congregation to feel good about themselves (see bottom of this post)…
and… maybe… just maybe… you might consider all the folks who are having hard times economically… while your “sugar daddy” church pays for your God experiences… I must have missed in the bible where it makes recreation an important necessity in the life of a pastor… I thought our rest was found in Jesus… and it being clear that serving Christ on a pastoral level was a high calling that required sacrifice and hardship and a selfless heart….
What I gather here at withoutwax.tv reflects a very worldly, very shallow, very self-indulgent and non-pastoral reflection … in my opinion… (I would’ve been wowed if you had paid for someone less fortunate to journey out west and enjoy the occasion… but that would’ve taken the social and photo-opportunity out of the equation… and how would you ever Flicker or Twitter without those things… eh?)
And just for good measure, if you have the courage…. read the text below… and consider making a point in one of your next messages… about what it expresses… if you don’t think it might upset the 6 figure apple cart you enjoy riding in… and chagrin the folks who fill it with apples… for your personal benefit….
——-
Jesus, Jr.
Our local deity is not Jesus. He goes by the name Jesus. But in reality, our local deity is Jesus Jr.
Our little Jesus is popular because he is useful. He makes us feel better while conveniently fitting into the margins of our busy lives. But he is not terrifying or compelling or thrilling. When we hear the gospel of Jesus Jr., our casual response is “Yeah, that’s what I believe.” Jesus Jr. does not confront us, surprise us, stun us. He looks down on us with a benign, all-approving grin. He tells us how wonderful we really are, how entitled we really are, how wounded we really are, and it feels good.
Jesus Jr. appeals to the flesh. He does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him. He is not able to understand them, much less impart them, because Jesus Jr. is the magnification of Self, the idealization of Self, the absolutization of Self turning around and validating Self, flattering Self, reinforcing Self. Jesus Jr. does not change us, because he is a projection of us.
It is time to tear down Jesus Jr. It is time to rediscover the real Jesus. Still today, even to us, his invitation stands: “Come to me” (Matthew 11:28).
———–
You’re a wannabe caricature of Jesus… in spite of your good standing amongst your “followers”…. because you have moved into a place (ever more frequently) where it’s mostly about you… not Him…
I know it’s hard to be subjective or objective… but you could be more by being less… but you’ve gotten caught up in the moment(s)… and it seems you’ve let the issue of eternity and the real purpose of the gospel become more about twittering and face-booking and flickering and social networking…
Roll up your sleeves and get back to India and those places where the honest work of the gospel really happens… in the short term, it’s supposed to be difficult… in the long term… it’s supposed to be difficult… in between the two… it’s supposed to be difficult and more than a job, Pete… and more than about you…
I can’t help but feel that Paul (Saul) spent little, if any, time “fly fishing”…. he understood that his life’s work was intended for and dedicated to the sake of Christ and the gospel… not his own personal self-aggrandizement and showcasing all his personal achievements and experiences in the world….
You’re wasting time and money that might be better spent (and blessed)…. by focusing on those less fortunate and able than yourself… consistently…
If you have to go to Montana and fly fish to find God… well…. that seems quaint and disingenuous…
But, perhaps that falls under “your calling”…. ?
Forgive me if I unbalance the normal call and response you expect from folks that visit here… I put down my rose-colored glasses a while back… and you may prefer folks looking through a glass lit dimly…
If you can look in the mirror and tell yourself you are heeding the true calling of a disciple and pastor…. ignore pretty much all I’ve shared…
[Reply]
John Q. Public
2:38 pm
@John Q. Public,
Hey friend. I refuse to get into an argument about this stuff with you. I obviously see this a little different than you but I respect your opinion.
I do want to clarify that the church in no way funded my trip. Cross Point has an open book financial policy which you are welcome to review at anytime if you have serious questions about the way money is spent. In fact, the trip was a Christmas gift from a friend.
I stand beside our elders and our board who do an amazing job of providing financial accountability for Cross Point Church.
[Reply]
Pete Wilson
3:29 pm
Pete,
Robin, my wife, just showed me this post and I wanted to let you know that I went to the bible college where your dad was, and never realized that he was Jesus and you were Jesus Jr.! I probably would have behaved a whole lot differently. Please tell him that I’m sorry! I don’t want that to keep me from getting into the “Pearly Gates.”
[Reply]
Tim Helton
4:00 pm
@Tim, I’ll pass that on.
[Reply]
Pete Wilson
4:03 pm
Cornfields in Iowa, my 3 year old 2nd cousin who will probably die as a young adult because of birth complications and bike trails in northwest Germany.
Every where I look I desire to see God and I pray that He would grant me this desire.
David’s last blog post..Eclipse? India Says Demons And Terrorists And Floods, Oh My
[Reply]
David
5:21 pm
Just spent some time in Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula. Just gorgeous.
Pics and thoughts here:
http://www.thepilotswife.org/2009/07/feeling-small.html
[Reply]
Emily @ The Pilot's Wife
7:55 pm
And, I appreciate how you respond to negative comments with a gentle answer.
Emily @ The Pilot’s Wife’s last blog post..Blog Hop :: Recipes
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Emily @ The Pilot's Wife
7:56 pm
How neat. When speckled trout fishing in Louisiana I noticed I had praise and worhip songs playing in my head. My head is usually cluttered with work, issues or something not very relaxing. This day P&W without any effort on my part. The Louisiana marsh is beautiful.
[Reply]
Johnny Hicks
8:04 pm
Pete,
God uses your blog to remind me to pray for you (as a pastor) and my own pastor on a more regular basis. I’m in leadership within my Bible Study class, and I covet the prayers of my friends and classmates. I cannot even imagine a pastor’s position. Know you’re being prayed for and thank you for the reminders!
Alyssa’s last blog post..A few pics
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Alyssa
8:25 pm
@John Q. Public,
I am glad that you mentioned Paul. He is one of my favorite persons from the bible to study. Maybe you are familiar with Chapter 4 of Philippians.
May God bless you while you read it.
Tony York’s last blog post..Northern Church done Southern Style
[Reply]
Tony York
8:55 pm
@John Q. Public,
“A bruised reed he will not break,and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out”
I think Pete is doing a great job. I don’t care where one pastors because it is a difficult job no matter where it is.
Blessed are the peacemakers. Let’s all work in this area which can be so difficult.
David’s last blog post..Brennan Manning On Idolatry Of The Scriptures
[Reply]
David
11:10 pm
Pete,
As a proud member of your congregation, I have so much that I would love to say in response to @john Q. Public, but I am choosing to not say anything, but to say that your response to him was amazing. I have to agree with Emily @ The Pilots wife, your answer was gentle.
Reading about your trip to Montana and all the peace and rest and “one on one” time you had with God, brought me back to my time in the mountains of Colorado, and how I would spend time on our front deck and just breathe in the presence of the Lord, just enjoying His wonder and majesty, that I was able to see day to day. We had and still have an amazing friend, named Peter, and he would come to our house for a visit, and too, be in awe of the beauty that surrounded us, and he would give thanks and praise to God.
My time growing up in the mountains, was a time of great, intimate communication with the Lord.
In the hurried life I seem to live with @tempotommy’s schedule and my 6 kids, your time of rest this month, sharing these few pics and memories, have reminded me to go back to the place of rest, of resting in Him. If not physically, then mentally and spiritually. It has brought me comfort and joy.
I am glad you have had the opportunity to rest and rejuvinate,(and share a few brief moments with us.)
Thank you for being one of the Pastors at Crosspoint! Our family truly loves this church.
[Reply]
Lorrie Harden
11:52 pm
Ohhhhhhhhhhhh…boy. @John Q Public…wow.
Seriously? Can you re-read your post there, man? I seem to recall a moment in the scriptures when a disciple of Christ’s pitched a fit similar to yours because a woman shattered an expensive flask of anointing oil and saturated Jesus’ feet with it. Interesting.
And to assume that being a minister of the gospel automatically requires one to live a life of constant lack/suffering/difficulty is ridiculous. “I have come that they might have life, and have it to its fullest.” I think that would require, to be true, an element of joy, of peace, and of occasional enjoyment. As ministers, our first responsibility is to God, then to our families, then to our ministries…and if we need to take some time away from the hustle and bustle in order to best be effective in ANY of those places, then so be it. Jesus Himself withdrew to quiet places to commune with His Father and I fail to see ANYTHING in what Pete’s shared with us on this blog to indicate any sort of spiritual lack.
Perhaps not every post on this blog is dripping with spiritual intent and depth. So what? It’s a blog. It’s a place where a pastor of a church shares his hopes, his dreams, his excitement, and his struggles. If you’re choosing to judge his ministry or his spiritual health based on a BLOG…then honestly, I think you should find a mirror first. That speck is gonna put your eye out.
I realize that he doesn’t need me to say any of this, and that your comment most assuredly wasn’t directed at ME, but when I can see 2000-year-old attitudes remaining unchanged, it’s honestly a touch infuriating. Jesus came face-to-face with the “religious” of His day, and they “knew” how things “should be done.” Yet the people were starving for a Savior Who would meet them where they were; a Savior Who understood their struggles and could lift them out of the mire of their own darkness. The religious wanted someone who did things “just so,” regardless of whether or not it resulted in lives that were truly impacted for God.
And newsflash, JQP, we’re ALL “wannabe” caricatures of Christ. Works in progress.
[Reply]
Joe
7:29 am
Pete, Tony and Lorrie,
Forgive me, but I am envious of your patience and temperment.
John Q. Publc,
You are a coward! Come out from bedind the mask, Peter. Are you ashamed of something? I would be embarresed to use my real name , too, if I wasted my time correcting imperfect preachers.
If the CP elders have agreed to pay Pete 6 “figures”, then they must realize he is worth it. Pete has earned a vacation and that is none of your business. This is his personal and professional blog. Let the man live and get a life. How about putting all of this energy and obvious “god-like” knowledge of the Bible to work on saving lost souls???
I am going to play God for a second and please forgive me Lord for judging: YOU ARE JEALOUS, John Q. Public! “Love is not jealous,” my friend.
I am going to shut up now, and pray for the Lion from “The Wizard of Oz”
Jody’s last blog post..Will the real slim shady please cast the first stone?
[Reply]
Jody
7:48 am
John Q,
Please don’t take any of this personally, brother. I do apologize for choosing “name calling” to be necessary in making my point. There, I sound like a “dirty “politician. Heck, when it is all said and done I’m probably the Tin Man.
“True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing” -Socrates
I would still like to see the “OZ” come out from behind the curtain. I don’t recall Paul writing any letter anonymously, do you?
Jody’s last blog post..Will the real slim shady please cast the first stone?
[Reply]
Jody
8:11 am
Pete,
I had this same issue come up with my blog yesterday and I am impressed with how you handled it.
The most biting blog comments will ALWAYS be those left with no name. And its sad.
Never been to CP but as a fellow minister of the Gospel I know that Heaven rejoices because of it, and you have never, ever made God little for anyone’s benefit, at least that I have heard. You preach with conviction and you preach the WHOLE Gospel.
Matt Hafer’s last blog post..Purpose of my blog
[Reply]
Matt Hafer
8:33 am
My place would be the coast of Ponce, PR or for a closer place Centennial Park. I used to do missionary work every summer in Ponce growing up and something about sitting on that beach and looking out without the cell phone or computer or work was just calming. When I first thought about moving to Nashville I went to Centennial Park. . . something about it made me feel the calm amongst the craziness of the city. I go there and swing on one of the many swings throughout the park when I need to clear my head.
I am grateful to have pastors and a church that believes in not allowing it’s leaders to burn out. Glad you were able to get away and refresh. I love that the church has an open book policy—know that the congregation knows you better than to think the “church” paid for your vacation. Even ministers are able to save up or get gifts. Glad you got to relax and fish and enjoy God’s creation!
[Reply]
Jessica
8:42 am
Wow. Beautiful pictures, description of an amazing time of R & R, and perfect example of Proverbs 15:1 all in one blog day.
Faye’s last blog post..Displeasure
[Reply]
Faye
8:48 am
Pete, just a little more encouragement. I don’t live in the Nashville area, but frequent your blog because I enjoy the real way you address things—both directly spiritual and those of everyday life. I appreciate that you are what I would call a “student-teacher”. You are a student of God and what He is trying to teach you and lay on your heart. And, your congregation, and readers, are priviledged to have you teach us what God has taught you. You are a great messenger, and I enjoy being on this journey that God leads us thru with you.
[Reply]
Kelly
9:22 am
Hey bro…love your pictures, love the fact that you got to get away for 3 days, love the fact that even though comments like the ones dished out by John Q deeply wound, you don’t respond out of that hurt. Thanks for setting the example for all of us that even though words do hurt us, we don’t have to stoop to the level of those that seek to wound us. My only wish for you is that you could have had 3 weeks there, rather than 3 days.
Justin Davis’s last blog post..How You Find Us
[Reply]
Justin Davis
9:49 am
I just have to say you handled that a lot better than I would have Pete, and I’m sorry that you were so brutally attacked. I loved Joe’s response of “I seem to recall a moment in the scriptures when a disciple of Christ’s pitched a fit similar to yours because a woman shattered an expensive flask of anointing oil and saturated Jesus’ feet with it. Interesting.” I couldn’t have said it better.
I think if we ALL spent a lot less time criticizing the rest of the family of God and put our focus where it actually should be (you know, where we accuse those others of not putting theirs…) the whole Church might just look the way God intended it instead of a bunch of whiners creating strife among the very family He ordained to make a change. We aren’t looking any different than the rest of the world when we do this, people.
Melody’s last blog post..Because it would hurt to think
[Reply]
Melody
10:43 am
Hey Pete! I wasn’t in the wild of Montana yesterday when I failed to see your blog and comment then. I was in the throes of a vehicle on its way to Ohio taking my grandson home to his folks. That’s right. i was in a modern vehicle and not at the church or some homeless shelter or (take your pick). I mean, after all everyone knows pastors only work one day a week! (All above is tongue in cheek) I abhor anonymous comments, letters, calls, etc. I have to agree with the one who said it was cowardly. No one knows the pressure that many pastors are under and how it is set to crush us if we don’t take some time away. I distinctly remember a blogging trip to India you took and the day of ministry CP did recently. In the end all that matters is not what JQP thinks but what does God think and what did your leadership at CP think? You were gracious in your answer. Much more so than JQP ever dreamed of being. And just think, I have never met you (except here) and don’t even come 1/2 way to your “six figures” if indeed you do make that (which is frankly none of my business).
bill (cycleguy)’s last blog post..The “When” and the “Why”
[Reply]
bill (cycleguy)
11:41 am
@John Q.,
Thanks for posting your comment yesterday pretty much tearing down someone who, although not in the way that you deem appropriate, IS living a life that DOES build people up, that makes us ready to follow Christ is NEW ways.
Because of your comment, I stumbled upon Pete’s blog for today, and recieved a message that I needed to hear.
Perhaps Pete’s calling is different from the pastor’s of the past or the pastor’s of more conventional churches. If you haven’t noticed our world is now tuned in on facebook, blog sites, twitter, my space, you tube, etc.. Pete is reaching people like me who are on these sites and the even younger generation that may not otherwise read anything uplifting throughout their day.
The fact that he experiences God’s beauty by fly fishing, or shows that he is human through honest accounts of life, makes him a BETTER pastor for many people who can’t identify any other way with how God’s word is applied in their life.
[Reply]
Becky
1:00 pm
Pete,
I don’t go to your church. Never been there. Don’t even live in the same city or state. Would love to visit if I’m in the area, but unless my husband’s job makes a drastic change, I’ll never live there and be a member. Dang.
That being said, I am also the daughter of a pastor. I have spent my entire life watching my dad selflessly give himself to the people of the church. I have yet to see him take a vacation without constantly checking on a sick member, leaving vacation for an unexpected death in the church, or scheduling a vacation around business meetings, VBS, mission trips, youth programs, childrens; choir performances, etc….. The church is his life, not just his place of business. Like you, he lives for his God and serving his congregation.
You absolutely deserve a vacation, paid by the church or not. You deserve a nice camera. You deserve a nice house. You shouldn’t have to apologize for a wonderful experience, as JQP seems to think. I hope you had a wonderful time on your vacation and are relaxed and rejuvenated as you return to the church that loves you so much. They are blessed to have you. We, internets, are blessed to learn from you, even in weird ways like blogs and twitter. Thank you so much,
[Reply]
Robyn (3GirlsMom)
1:11 pm
Job commented to his wife that we were to accept both GOOD and BAD from the Lord. We do not need to feel guilty about the blessings we have. What the commenter fails to realize, is what I’m sure all of your congregation and readers know–that even if it were ALL stripped away, you would still love the Jesus you serve.
I had to rectify that in my own mind recently. I had to finally stop questioning why I have had many blessings.
Oh, well. I guess I’m not a shallow follower of Pastor Pete Wilson.
[Reply]
Lis
1:58 pm
Oh John Q, I want to ask you, how does condemnation draw people to the Lord? Seriously, you want to come here and blast Pete time after bloody time about things he’s doing and supposed sins he’s committing and yet, Scripturally, it would be best if you went to him in private.
Since you have decided to repeatedly do this, I have decided you prefer to operate in a public forum, so here it is…
To me you come across as prideful, arrogant, having a critical spirit, believing you are above reproach, and jealous. I don’t see a loving heart. What your responses stir in me is NOT the love of the Lord, but anger and a desire to lash out. If that’s the case, then you are causing one of your sisters in Christ to stumble. Getting down to the point, you are doing all you accuse Pete of and doing it in a spirit that says you are better. Who does that remind me of? THinking…… OOOOOOOOOOOHHHH yeah, the Pharisees. Dig around and see how the Lord responded to them. I’m sure you can find it.
Let me tell you about Pete. I live in Missouri. I am not a member of his congregation and have never sent him a dime. I will never be (sadly) a tithing member of his flock. However, if I have a question or a need for prayer, Pete is always quick to respond. It’s done in private and no one other than my husband knows the content of what I have discussed with Pete. I go to a church of 200 and my own Pastor doesn’t even respond to me. I can tell you what I have decided, John Q, authenticity offends the religious. I prefer not to be religous and prefer a relationship with my Father. My Father who knows my heart and loves me even if I am getting it wrong. A Father who says, “God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through him might be saved.”
[Reply]
Julie
1:58 pm
Pete Wilson,
I do think John Q. is right in that many pastors and churches in todays world shamefully handle money just like the world. But, if anything, the grace you showed in your response should be proof enough to anyone that you are certainly not a Pharisee, but rather a child and servant of our great God.
Matt Svoboda
[Reply]
Matt Svoboda
2:08 pm
“Wow” at the comments.
And I just wanted to say the pictures were pretty. LOL
[Reply]
Amy
2:37 pm
John Q Public: Let me first say that I can truly empathize with your position – and from my own previous experience, have seen where corruption in church leaders with the issue of money has torn apart the work of God’s hand. It is obvious to me that you’ve experienced this to some level.
Given that, I provide you with some compassion and will simply educate you on some facts that Pete very politely avoided – and in his defense:
1 – I am a Cross Point member of more than 4.5 years
2 – I don’t know exactly what Pete makes b/c I’ve never felt the need to check, but I do know very closely some of the board members who make that call, and respect their level of discretion very much.
3 – I’ve been in Pete’s home and though very nice when comparing to the world in its entirety, it is also very modest. His wife’s shopping habits are admirable as she is quite the penny-pinching / bargain-finding shopper.
So when I heard of this perceived extravagant getaway, instinctively I knew that it was not of that nature at all.
4 – No where does God ever state that following him should equal constant suffering. In fact, God wants us to receive more blessings than most all of us are willing to ask for. He wants us to enjoy the life he has given to us and in exchange, we give ALL the glory to him.
5 – I’ve seen Pete take those less fortunate to places and events with him – he is not at all selfish in his material blessings and will be the first in line to share those amazing experiences with anyone, anytime, anywhere.
6 – Pete gives God the glory for EVERYTHING in his life on a daily basis. EVERYTHING.
7 – Pete’s willingness to share the most vulnerable and embarrassing thoughts and actions is certainly characteristic of someone who is humbled by the grace of God – one who struggles against the human nature to drive fame to themselves.
8 – I believe that most readers and “followers” of Pete’s blog and the church he participated in building view Pete as an honest inspiration to what the rest of us can do – faults and all. I also believe that only a small number of our church would depart should Pete ever leave. We are blessed with an amazing team of leaders – ALL of who are equally in placement and acting as the hand of God to continue outreach to our community and beyond. Should Pete ever leave, sure, we’d miss many things about him, but our commitment to God and each other surpasses your view of the “great Pete”.
9 – “Jesus Jr.” – ok, have to admit I didn’t follow this one completely, but just the phrase itself – I can only wish that someone would see me as that!!! If my goal in life is to be more like Christ, then to me, this is a compliment! Again, I must have missed your point on that one.
10 – As a life long Christian, I’ve been stagnent until recently. Many factors, Pete’s blog and inspirations HAVE played a small part in this, have prompted me to look further and deeper into my own life and discover ways of expanding my work into God’s work. My desire to do ministry has grown as a result of this – and I look forward to the journey I’m about to take alongside my Cross Point family to discover the many wonderful blessings that God is just waiting for me to reach up and take.
11 – Everyone needs a rest. I am one who entirely supports Pete’s sabatical. He really is one of the most bombarded people I know and without that solitude, he will never be able to make sure that he is in alignment for what God wants from him – which as we’ve all seen, would lead to a deteriorated leader. He’s doing what more of us should do. We do daily devotionals, right? So who’s to say that a month of simply enjoying God’s creation, worshipping Him and doing the “born again honeymoon” isn’t the same, just on a different time frame?
JQP – I hope that you can come to understand this side of Pete and his role in influencing those who come in contact with him to follow God – and know what it REALLY means to become like Christ.
I also thank you for bringing this topic to the surface – as it’s one typcially avoided. There are many who would fall under your critical category, but I’m happy to say, this is not that case.
CHEERS TO GOD!!!
[Reply]
Paula
2:54 pm
John Q Public –
I’d like to hear your response to all the responses posted? If you want to “stir the pot”, you’d better “sip the soup”!
Pete – I hope I didn’t give to much details away…just felt guided here.
[Reply]
Paula
3:05 pm
@John Q Public…
I am an avid follower of Pete’s blog and am in the process of becoming a member of Cross Point Church. I’m not one to post comments on his blog, basically because I am not nearly as eloquent as Pete, or as most of those who do comment, but I do enjoy reading them. But after reading your comments I feel moved to respond.
As someone who has been a lifelong Christian, I have had my share of judgmental views such as yours. And that is precisely why I have struggled with my relationship with the church. Finding Cross Point, and Pete, has given me a place where I can get my spiritual nourishment, guidance, and growth. The first time I visited, tears filled my eyes because I felt closer to God that I had ever felt. Pete has a gift of bringing the world of God to us in a myriad of ways. I am constantly amazed at his work ethic. He does more before 9 a.m. than most people do in an entire day! His facebook and twitter activity are ways to stay in touch with thousands of people who may never step into Cross Point church, but who are benefiting from Pete’s love of God, and God’s love of us.
I didn’t realize that you make it a habit to comment (anonymously), which amazes me. If you feel that Pete is so off the mark, why do you continue to read? And spend so much time composing such long diatribes?
I live the the “world”, and so do you. Pete’s “worldly” view is one of the reasons I respect him. He teaches us how to live in God’s world, not some isolated group of church members who refuse to believe there is a world outside of the church building.
I thank God every day for Pete, and for pastors like him, who bring God to us in a way we can relate to.
I pray for you, and hope that you will find whatever it is you are looking for.
And Pete…
My place is Lake Toxaway, NC. With my husband, my daughter, and my dog.
Thanks for all you do.
[Reply]
Elisha
3:36 pm
Hey Elisha – good to see you on here – can’t wait to catch up when you get back into town. Need to have you over!
[Reply]
Paula
3:39 pm
funny in a not so ha ha funny way.
i just quit my blog b/c of someone who was also hiding behind fake names and thrashing me on a regular basis.
the last post i did was # 666.
i am not superstitious at all, but how interesting that the post i quit on b/c of some jerk behind the “curtain” was that number.
hmmm.
i have to think about this more.
pete, even ppl who don’t go to your church really like you and connect with you. you’ve been there spiritually for me in more ways than you can imagine. it’s nice to see a pastor who is human. broken. torn. and alive!
God bless you and your gorgeous family!
[Reply]
Heidi Reed
7:19 pm
As you can see Paul Q is a troll. He has not even been back to respond. No need in getting upset or focusing on people like that they are the ones who have the issues that need to be prayed for.
[Reply]
Allison
3:43 am
Oops, I meant to say “word of God”, not “world of God”, but I guess they both work!
And Paula…I can’t wait to see your new digs!
[Reply]
Elisha
7:16 am
My dad is a pastor and I will never forget how stressed I would see him at times. Watching my father, I learned that being a pastor is not your typical 9 to 5 day job where you can just clock out at the end of the day and all your problem are put on hold and you pick up the next day. If Pete is taking a vacation, good for him! he probably needs it. As far as the whole facebook, twitter thing. I think that’s genius! He like so many other pastors are doing the smart thing and leveraging the mediums that so many people are using now a days!
I personally think people are giving way too much attention to this John Q. guy.
[Reply]
Rob
7:48 am
Pete,
Like Tim Helton , I was at school when your dad was dean and didn’t realize he was Jesus …he couldnt have been Jesus because I was put through hell when I was there and Jesus wouldn’t do that. Soooo you cant be Jesus Jr. thought I’d clear that up for John Q.
[Reply]
Phil Chalos
11:20 am
Please see my post (relevant to this post) under the “My Nagging Narcissism” July 22nd post.
I’ve been duly and handily reprimanded….
And… I need to get a life!
[Reply]
John Q. Public
8:14 pm
Awww, I just found this blog (never been here before)…awww…I just feel bad for Pete and Pete’s wife.
I, too, am a pastor’s kid and pastors work SO HARD. You never see what all they do. I remember my mom saying that my dad had to leave the house in order to get a “day off” because church people would always stop by if my dad were home. And that was fine with both of my parents, but if you took a day off and your boss and 2 co-workers came to hang out with you at your house, would you FEEL like it was a real day off?
Eh, I don’t even know what to say. My dad is the best pastor I know because he is a pastor to the people. He’s retired now and even still is making hospital calls and nursing home visits for the church he and my mom attend. He doesn’t get any money for that. Their budget is super, super tight. He never made much money, but I’ll tell you what: if you call my dad he will start telling you about Hazel at the nursing home and how she has two sons who play hockey and one is a science teacher in Tampa, Florida and the other played college baseball and is now living in Winnipeg. Because he cares about people.
I just really feel for pastors these days as the rocks thrown at their glass houses are bigger and bigger and bigger.
God bless the ministry of Pete, the other pastors that posted comments here or are reading here, the pastor’s wives and families, too.
Ministry is hard, and chopping pastors off at the knees when you really don’t know them seems like cowardice to me.
May God continue to refine us all,
Jeanie in Minnesota
[Reply]
Jeanie
1:50 pm
Exuma.
Camp (for the AMAZING sunsets).
the night sky.
flying through clouds.
actually, pretty much ANY nature makes me stop and realize how amazing and creative and breath-taking God is!
Susan´s last blog ..Hillsong United
[Reply]
Susan
7:12 pm