Hey friends,
Tax season is over and I am very thankful. I am thankful for the employment over the last 3 months and also thankful that the tax season isn’t 12 months out of the year. This experiencing was way more…well….taxing….than I imagined. However, in God’s goodness, he gave me the opportunity to share the story of Hope Church with two or three individuals or families per day. This kept me motivated throughout the spring.
Where we are heading….
I am praying about utilizing a men’s outreach called “Quest for Authentic Manhood” as a way to reach men over the summer and then full-force during the fall. Please join me in prayer about this. Some of you are familiar with Quest and have already expressed your interest. I will share more in the coming days.
What about now…
We are now meeting twice a month. Our gatherings will be on the first Sunday and the third Sunday. The first Sunday of the month will be “Meal at the Malsons.” We will gather on the third for a time of worship, prayer and Bible Study.
OK…what about this week….
This Sunday, May 2nd, Vivian and I would like to invite all of our local friends and families to a picnic at Christina Park at the corner of 540a and South Florida Ave. Vivian and I will be there at 4pm to secure a picnic area (hopefully close to the playground!) and we will eat at 5pm.
What to bring:
Bring your own… (whatever you want on a grill)
Bring drinks to share (enough for your family plus one or two other individuals)
We will supply the sides and the ice (and cups and plates and utensils).
See you Sunday!
Paul
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Hope Church Gatherings
Hey guys,
Just wanted to drop you a quick note about our upcoming schedule. This Sunday, March 21st 6:oopm, we will have another Meals at the Malsons. As for a theme, we thought we would stick with St. Patrick’s Day and plan Irish things. This, then, is the problem. We don’t have too many Irish recipes. So, the pressure is on you. I’m sure we can come up with something, or punt and have burgers.
The following Sunday, March 28th, at 6pm, we will gather at our house for a time of worship, prayer and Bible Study.
See you next Sunday. And as always, invite your friends. Everyone's welcome.
Paul
Just wanted to drop you a quick note about our upcoming schedule. This Sunday, March 21st 6:oopm, we will have another Meals at the Malsons. As for a theme, we thought we would stick with St. Patrick’s Day and plan Irish things. This, then, is the problem. We don’t have too many Irish recipes. So, the pressure is on you. I’m sure we can come up with something, or punt and have burgers.
The following Sunday, March 28th, at 6pm, we will gather at our house for a time of worship, prayer and Bible Study.
See you next Sunday. And as always, invite your friends. Everyone's welcome.
Paul
Monday, February 22, 2010
Motivate
What a great gathering last night. As always, Brett Durbin inspired us by give updating us on the work of the Trash Mountain Project. I am so thankful that we can partnership with such an amazing organization. Anyone want to go to Honduras to build some homes?
Jack Weekley demonstrated his grill-master technique with simply awesome Pork Fajitas. Far and away the best fajitas I’ve ever eaten….and eaten….and eaten. Robby and I just kept giggling as we ate. Thanks Jack. Everyone kept coming back for more.
We had sixteen adults and kids with us with a few last minute cancelations. Our next Meals at the Malsons gathering is planned for March 21. I am stoked about our future.
Vivian and I would like to begin meeting the first and third Sundays of each month. The first month would be a worship and teaching time. The third week of the month will be "Meals at the Malsons" as a fellowship and vision casting time. What do you think?
In the next few weeks, we will be walking our neighborhoods with our “Canning Hunger” food drive. Here’s the deal:
1) Most people are generous if you make it easy to give.
2) We will be placing plastic sacks on the doors of our neighbors with a simple note telling them that Hope Church is collecting non-perishable food items for a local food pantry to help the poor and homeless. We will return at an appointed date and time to retrieve any bags left on the porch.
3) We will have a Hope Church Brochure also attached to each bag inviting them to join the movement.
I am open to any suggestions on the most appropriate neighborhoods in which to kick off “Canning Hunger.” And, yes, I’m looking for some willing partners to walk the streets with me.
Motivated,
Paul
Jack Weekley demonstrated his grill-master technique with simply awesome Pork Fajitas. Far and away the best fajitas I’ve ever eaten….and eaten….and eaten. Robby and I just kept giggling as we ate. Thanks Jack. Everyone kept coming back for more.
We had sixteen adults and kids with us with a few last minute cancelations. Our next Meals at the Malsons gathering is planned for March 21. I am stoked about our future.
Vivian and I would like to begin meeting the first and third Sundays of each month. The first month would be a worship and teaching time. The third week of the month will be "Meals at the Malsons" as a fellowship and vision casting time. What do you think?
In the next few weeks, we will be walking our neighborhoods with our “Canning Hunger” food drive. Here’s the deal:
1) Most people are generous if you make it easy to give.
2) We will be placing plastic sacks on the doors of our neighbors with a simple note telling them that Hope Church is collecting non-perishable food items for a local food pantry to help the poor and homeless. We will return at an appointed date and time to retrieve any bags left on the porch.
3) We will have a Hope Church Brochure also attached to each bag inviting them to join the movement.
I am open to any suggestions on the most appropriate neighborhoods in which to kick off “Canning Hunger.” And, yes, I’m looking for some willing partners to walk the streets with me.
Motivated,
Paul
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Update
Vivian and I are worshiping with the folks at Centerpoint Church in Winter Haven, FL while the Sr. Pastor, Duane Hunt, recuperates from Mitral Valve surgery. Duane called into the service today and sounded great. We look forward to having him back in the pulpit shortly. Until then, I’ll continue to preach the Word.
Next Sunday, February 21st, we will host our next Meals at the Malsons as we build momentum for Hope Church. We are anticipating more than 20 people for our second gathering. The menu will be Mexican food with Jack Weekley grilling fajitas. We’ll send out an email this evening requesting help with the remaining items.
Even if you have not joined us before, come make new friends and enjoy a meal. We’d love to host you.
We are receiving resumes and inquiries for the Hope Church Worship Leader/Worship Band. The excitement is starting to building.
Do you feel it?
Paul
Next Sunday, February 21st, we will host our next Meals at the Malsons as we build momentum for Hope Church. We are anticipating more than 20 people for our second gathering. The menu will be Mexican food with Jack Weekley grilling fajitas. We’ll send out an email this evening requesting help with the remaining items.
Even if you have not joined us before, come make new friends and enjoy a meal. We’d love to host you.
We are receiving resumes and inquiries for the Hope Church Worship Leader/Worship Band. The excitement is starting to building.
Do you feel it?
Paul
Friday, February 5, 2010
Invited!
The next “Meals at the Malsons” gathering is on the horizon. We will gather again on February 21st at 6pm for a meal and an update on Hope Church. As we get closer to the date, we will email everyone with a dinner menu.
Please invite your friends. Everyone’s welcome.
We have some special things planned following dinner so you won't want to miss it. Please block out Sunday evening, February 21st on your calendar today and let me know you are planning to attend.
See you soon,
Paul
Please invite your friends. Everyone’s welcome.
We have some special things planned following dinner so you won't want to miss it. Please block out Sunday evening, February 21st on your calendar today and let me know you are planning to attend.
See you soon,
Paul
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Opportunities
Last night, Vivian and I had the opportunity to enjoy a meal with the Gartz family here in Lakeland. What a wonderful meal and conversation!
We are so thankful that God continues to put new people in our midst with whom we can share the vision for Hope Church. Last night we shared about Hope Church, the Hope Center and HopeFest. God continually expands our vision as to what this new ministry will look like. But though we plan for the future, we are committed to growing one step at a time. Now, we are continuing to meet and assimilate new people every day until we publicly launch our worship service in the fall.
The overarching theme for the ministry is transformation: transformation of people and community. We know that God desires to make himself known to our area and world. We also know that this area is in need of a touch from the Lord. The more we pray, the more we are convinced that God is ready to move through us, and Hope Church, in new and tangible ways.
Thanks for praying for us. For those outside the area, why don’t you pray about moving to lovely central Florida to join us? And yes, I’m kidding of course…but only sorta kidding.
Paul
We are so thankful that God continues to put new people in our midst with whom we can share the vision for Hope Church. Last night we shared about Hope Church, the Hope Center and HopeFest. God continually expands our vision as to what this new ministry will look like. But though we plan for the future, we are committed to growing one step at a time. Now, we are continuing to meet and assimilate new people every day until we publicly launch our worship service in the fall.
The overarching theme for the ministry is transformation: transformation of people and community. We know that God desires to make himself known to our area and world. We also know that this area is in need of a touch from the Lord. The more we pray, the more we are convinced that God is ready to move through us, and Hope Church, in new and tangible ways.
Thanks for praying for us. For those outside the area, why don’t you pray about moving to lovely central Florida to join us? And yes, I’m kidding of course…but only sorta kidding.
Paul
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Unanticipated...
I love it when God shows up in unanticipated ways.
When we moved to Lakeland, we thought we could see the very near future, at least how God seem to orchestrate jobs, people and the birth of a new church. Most of those things never came to pass.
However, God never quit moving.
Let me share two examples.
First, Due to David and Andrea Wright’s connections with Liberty Tax Service, a local franchisee offered me an opportunity to help run one of his locations. At first, this appeared at odds with being in the community developing relationships to plant the church. However, God has orchestrated conversations so that every day I can share the vision of Hope Church. Imagine that, the conversations begin with your W2 and tax refund and end in a conversation about how God is moving in Lakeland. Very cool.
Second, as we drove around sharing the vision, the question kept coming up, “Where do you want to launch the church?” I have continually stated that a vacant facility (built 5 years ago) which is centrally located on the primary north-south route through Lakeland is the ideal location for us. Unfortunately, that building has been in litigation for a few years after a car dealership abandoned the location. This week, however, the “For Sale” signs were mounted on the exterior of the facility. Now, I have no way of knowing whether this facility will be available when we need to occupy it. I do know what it costs and it would require a miracle to purchase or lease it. But whether it is this facility or another, I am excited about what God is providing for us.
Either way, God is moving in unanticipated ways.
Paul
Hope Church
When we moved to Lakeland, we thought we could see the very near future, at least how God seem to orchestrate jobs, people and the birth of a new church. Most of those things never came to pass.
However, God never quit moving.
Let me share two examples.
First, Due to David and Andrea Wright’s connections with Liberty Tax Service, a local franchisee offered me an opportunity to help run one of his locations. At first, this appeared at odds with being in the community developing relationships to plant the church. However, God has orchestrated conversations so that every day I can share the vision of Hope Church. Imagine that, the conversations begin with your W2 and tax refund and end in a conversation about how God is moving in Lakeland. Very cool.
Second, as we drove around sharing the vision, the question kept coming up, “Where do you want to launch the church?” I have continually stated that a vacant facility (built 5 years ago) which is centrally located on the primary north-south route through Lakeland is the ideal location for us. Unfortunately, that building has been in litigation for a few years after a car dealership abandoned the location. This week, however, the “For Sale” signs were mounted on the exterior of the facility. Now, I have no way of knowing whether this facility will be available when we need to occupy it. I do know what it costs and it would require a miracle to purchase or lease it. But whether it is this facility or another, I am excited about what God is providing for us.
Either way, God is moving in unanticipated ways.
Paul
Hope Church
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Meals at the Malsons
Tonight we held our first Hope Church gathering which we call “Meals at the Malsons.” Three other families joined us (another family had a job conflict) and we gathered for food and friendship. What a great time.
I laid out the plan for the next eight months including monthly “Meals at the Malsons” and monthly opportunities to reach out to our community with servant evangelism. We also shared the Lakeland 10for10 challenge which we will roll out in the next few weeks.
Our public launch date is September 26, 2010. Please begin to bathe that day in prayer. In fact, please join with me in praying for all the people whom God will bring to Hope Church.
We thank God for all of you. We love you all and appreciate all you do to ensure God is moving in our lives.
Paul
I laid out the plan for the next eight months including monthly “Meals at the Malsons” and monthly opportunities to reach out to our community with servant evangelism. We also shared the Lakeland 10for10 challenge which we will roll out in the next few weeks.
Our public launch date is September 26, 2010. Please begin to bathe that day in prayer. In fact, please join with me in praying for all the people whom God will bring to Hope Church.
We thank God for all of you. We love you all and appreciate all you do to ensure God is moving in our lives.
Paul
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Connecting with BBQ
Today I stopped to buy some firewood from a man selling logs from the bed of his pickup (It will reach 22 degrees tonight in central Florida!!!!). He had parked his truck next to a BBQ grill so, of course, we had to sample the pulled pork as well. The chef stuffed one pound of pork onto a bun. The sandwiches came with your choice of sweet or Habanera sauces. I heard the pork was fantastic. I wouldn’t know. Robby devoured it before I returned to the car.
The chef introduced us to Chris, better known as “Smokin’ Tater,” who is the proprietor of both the firewood stand and the BBQ. Chris participates in regional BBQ events and works with local non-profits as well as run a local restaurant.
I’ve been praying and looking for someone to partnership with us as we reach out to the community at some upcoming events. Chris suggested that we do some work together. He’d provide the BBQ (at $4 per plate) if I would provide the event and the people. I shared with Chris some of the events in which we were considering participating. He said he would provide the smoker and BBQ if I would provide the event. By the way, Chris’s smoker is a 500 gallon propane tank mounted on a trailer. He has a separate hot grill mounted on the side, which was pretty cool, but River City’s “Grilliath 500” dwarfed Lakeland’s version.
This is a partnership made in BBQ heaven. Chris’s website is http://www.smokintaters.com. Contact him for your next event. You will not be disappointed.
Blogging in Lakeland, FL
Paul Malson
Hope Church
The chef introduced us to Chris, better known as “Smokin’ Tater,” who is the proprietor of both the firewood stand and the BBQ. Chris participates in regional BBQ events and works with local non-profits as well as run a local restaurant.
I’ve been praying and looking for someone to partnership with us as we reach out to the community at some upcoming events. Chris suggested that we do some work together. He’d provide the BBQ (at $4 per plate) if I would provide the event and the people. I shared with Chris some of the events in which we were considering participating. He said he would provide the smoker and BBQ if I would provide the event. By the way, Chris’s smoker is a 500 gallon propane tank mounted on a trailer. He has a separate hot grill mounted on the side, which was pretty cool, but River City’s “Grilliath 500” dwarfed Lakeland’s version.
This is a partnership made in BBQ heaven. Chris’s website is http://www.smokintaters.com. Contact him for your next event. You will not be disappointed.
Blogging in Lakeland, FL
Paul Malson
Hope Church
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Happy New Year!!!! - from Vivian
I thought I would take advantage of the quiet house to write and wish all of you a Happy New Year. Amber and Robby were at a lock-in last night so they are passed out and Paul has taken the puppy with him to run errands. I hope that all of you had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends and that you are ready for this new year. I am so excited about what is to come! Paul and I have been spending a lot of time praying and laying a foundation for Hope Church. We have had some time to experience Lakeland and have a better picture of the church culture here. We have really sensed God's leading in the direction He wants us to take and we are anxious to be in the middle of the crazy, busy, WONDERFUL life of ministry. :)
This morning when I woke up I breathed a great sigh of relief knowing that 2009 was over. We enjoyed some very special moments but there were many difficult ones as well. Amber left for Nashville and Paul and I were forced to let go and put her in God's hands in a very real way. Her seven months at Mercy were a beautiful mixture of tears, decisions, and freedom for her. She has 40+ sisters that she misses much more than she expected. I always know when she is talking to Ashley (her roomie) because there is a sparkle in her eyes and I see peace come over her again. The girls and staff at Mercy share more life and Jesus with each other than most of us do in a lifetime. The adjustment to life outside of Mercy has been particularly hard for Amber, though. She left a life where she was focused on her relationship with God in every area of her life and a 24 hour staff of ladies that challenged and encouraged her to see the world through HIS eyes 24/7. Now she is in a different culture where all of her beliefs and her freedom is openly challenged by life and the world and those 40+ sisters are not here for her. We love and encourage and sometimes challenge her but for a 19 year old it just isn't the same. She will begin college in 10 days and we are very excited for her to begin this new journey. She is a very gifted young woman with so much to give the world. I know she doesn't recognize it, but we see it in the way she interacts with the children at church and recently I observed her interacting with some residents at an assisted living facility. I was in awe of how comfortable she was and how she loved on the residents.
Robby is doing really well in his classes and has a girlfriend. Courtney is a sweet girl and we have become friends with her grandmother so we know a little about how she is being raised and the kind of person that she is. Robby seems to be head over heels and I am proud to say is being an honorable young man and treating her like a princess.
Paul has searched for a job ever since we moved to Florida. He worked for UPS during the Christmas rush and will be taking a class next week to be certified to do taxes. That should take him through April. I will be playing chauffeur to Paul and Amber and keeping Robby on track with homeschooling. I have been enjoying creating a vision for our future children's ministry and women's ministry. We have settled on a logo and theme and we are launching Hope Church with a vision and understanding that it will take all of us to accomplish the work that God has set before us. I have had so much fun looking at different websites and learning new things and getting totally psyched about all of it. It has been a long time. Paul and I have found such a freedom and excitement in being the people that He created us to be and able to do the things God has called us to do.
In 2009 the River City pastors led us in a series called "Heroes." I have not been able to get their messages off my mind and they really were a confirmation to me that it was time for us to do what He has called us to do! I have also thought about my own heroes of the faith. Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife MaryBeth are such an inspiration to me. They are very real and open about their journey and I have been blessed by their testimony and faith in the midst of horrible tragedy. They aren't perfect but they encourage me to hang on and to believe that He is who He says that He is. Jim Cymbala is another hero of mine. Again, he is not perfect but he followed through with his calling and God has done something amazing through him. Beth Moore. I know many people are rolling their eyes but I have found her to be very real and a woman after God's own heart. She encourages me in that we share some things and she won't let me rest in my pity party but leads me to truth and most importantly always points my heart to Him. I have watched so many of you grow and you spur me on in the faith and make me want to be more like Him. Ms. Esther you will always have a special place in my heart. Your faith and godliness ministered to me in so many moments when I missed my own mother so much. Andrea, your mom made a permanent impression on my life and I pray that when I close my eyes for the last time on this earth that my children will be able to see that smile on my face and be comforted that I see Him face to face! There are so many things that God has laid on my heart for so long and now I feel like He continually tells me: O.K. it is time! Be my hands and feet with freedom and know that I am carrying you where I want you to go. The last six years have been very difficult for my family but I believe that it has been a time of preparation for the work that He has for us. He has been so faithful and we have learned a lot about HOPE and have seen how the world is in desperate need of HOPE. I wish you could all come join us on this adventure!
We enjoy reading about what is going on with all of you on Facebook and I hope that you know how much we miss all of you. I pray that this year you feel His hands upon you guiding you in the way that you should go. I pray that you experience His love, His peace and joy that can only come from Him. There are many lessons that I have learned in the past few years but the most important is that it really is ALL about Him and I can do nothing without Him.
I am very blessed to be married to Paul Malson and to be a mom to my children. They are the "icing on the cake" and they are blessings that I once believed that I could never have. My wildest dreams could not compare to the wonderful reality that they are. I am also blessed to have wonderful family and friends. "Malson Mom," there are no words to express to you how wonderful the two weeks were that we shared in October. The laughter, the talks and just the way you loved on us was the perfect medicine that we needed during that time. We left Texas at peace. I want to thank you and dad for the that gift. You are loved very much!
May God Bless You All!
Vivian
This morning when I woke up I breathed a great sigh of relief knowing that 2009 was over. We enjoyed some very special moments but there were many difficult ones as well. Amber left for Nashville and Paul and I were forced to let go and put her in God's hands in a very real way. Her seven months at Mercy were a beautiful mixture of tears, decisions, and freedom for her. She has 40+ sisters that she misses much more than she expected. I always know when she is talking to Ashley (her roomie) because there is a sparkle in her eyes and I see peace come over her again. The girls and staff at Mercy share more life and Jesus with each other than most of us do in a lifetime. The adjustment to life outside of Mercy has been particularly hard for Amber, though. She left a life where she was focused on her relationship with God in every area of her life and a 24 hour staff of ladies that challenged and encouraged her to see the world through HIS eyes 24/7. Now she is in a different culture where all of her beliefs and her freedom is openly challenged by life and the world and those 40+ sisters are not here for her. We love and encourage and sometimes challenge her but for a 19 year old it just isn't the same. She will begin college in 10 days and we are very excited for her to begin this new journey. She is a very gifted young woman with so much to give the world. I know she doesn't recognize it, but we see it in the way she interacts with the children at church and recently I observed her interacting with some residents at an assisted living facility. I was in awe of how comfortable she was and how she loved on the residents.
Robby is doing really well in his classes and has a girlfriend. Courtney is a sweet girl and we have become friends with her grandmother so we know a little about how she is being raised and the kind of person that she is. Robby seems to be head over heels and I am proud to say is being an honorable young man and treating her like a princess.
Paul has searched for a job ever since we moved to Florida. He worked for UPS during the Christmas rush and will be taking a class next week to be certified to do taxes. That should take him through April. I will be playing chauffeur to Paul and Amber and keeping Robby on track with homeschooling. I have been enjoying creating a vision for our future children's ministry and women's ministry. We have settled on a logo and theme and we are launching Hope Church with a vision and understanding that it will take all of us to accomplish the work that God has set before us. I have had so much fun looking at different websites and learning new things and getting totally psyched about all of it. It has been a long time. Paul and I have found such a freedom and excitement in being the people that He created us to be and able to do the things God has called us to do.
In 2009 the River City pastors led us in a series called "Heroes." I have not been able to get their messages off my mind and they really were a confirmation to me that it was time for us to do what He has called us to do! I have also thought about my own heroes of the faith. Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife MaryBeth are such an inspiration to me. They are very real and open about their journey and I have been blessed by their testimony and faith in the midst of horrible tragedy. They aren't perfect but they encourage me to hang on and to believe that He is who He says that He is. Jim Cymbala is another hero of mine. Again, he is not perfect but he followed through with his calling and God has done something amazing through him. Beth Moore. I know many people are rolling their eyes but I have found her to be very real and a woman after God's own heart. She encourages me in that we share some things and she won't let me rest in my pity party but leads me to truth and most importantly always points my heart to Him. I have watched so many of you grow and you spur me on in the faith and make me want to be more like Him. Ms. Esther you will always have a special place in my heart. Your faith and godliness ministered to me in so many moments when I missed my own mother so much. Andrea, your mom made a permanent impression on my life and I pray that when I close my eyes for the last time on this earth that my children will be able to see that smile on my face and be comforted that I see Him face to face! There are so many things that God has laid on my heart for so long and now I feel like He continually tells me: O.K. it is time! Be my hands and feet with freedom and know that I am carrying you where I want you to go. The last six years have been very difficult for my family but I believe that it has been a time of preparation for the work that He has for us. He has been so faithful and we have learned a lot about HOPE and have seen how the world is in desperate need of HOPE. I wish you could all come join us on this adventure!
We enjoy reading about what is going on with all of you on Facebook and I hope that you know how much we miss all of you. I pray that this year you feel His hands upon you guiding you in the way that you should go. I pray that you experience His love, His peace and joy that can only come from Him. There are many lessons that I have learned in the past few years but the most important is that it really is ALL about Him and I can do nothing without Him.
I am very blessed to be married to Paul Malson and to be a mom to my children. They are the "icing on the cake" and they are blessings that I once believed that I could never have. My wildest dreams could not compare to the wonderful reality that they are. I am also blessed to have wonderful family and friends. "Malson Mom," there are no words to express to you how wonderful the two weeks were that we shared in October. The laughter, the talks and just the way you loved on us was the perfect medicine that we needed during that time. We left Texas at peace. I want to thank you and dad for the that gift. You are loved very much!
May God Bless You All!
Vivian
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Walking
The past two and one half weeks I worked as a UPS driver’s helper. I now have a new appreciation for the number of packages, the number of stops and even the number of steps a driver takes every day. What a job!
I…
• Delivered packages to 204 houses on Friday a week ago and 193 houses on Wednesday.
• Took 17,253 steps on that Friday and just over 13,900 steps on Wednesday.
• That equates to 8.17 miles on Friday and 6.6 miles on Wednesday in 30 yards sprints from the truck to the house or business.
• The steps in and out of the truck equate to ascending and descending about 20 stories per day.
Needless to say, my knees are a bit sore after all this but I am thankful that I was paid to get daily exercise rather than joining a gym!
But this is also good practice. Beginning in January, we will kick off Servant Evangelism Saturdays to go connect to people in our community. At this point, we will be heading to a particularly busy park to hand out bottles of water and share Hope Church with those we meet.
If you want to join us, then let me know and COME ON!!!!!
If you want to contribute to the ministry of Hope Church and buy some water bottles, then send me an email and let me know. We’ll send you the address where you can mail your checks. And yes, we can also accept online donations. Just ask!
New Years blessings from the Malsons and Hope Church
Paul
I…
• Delivered packages to 204 houses on Friday a week ago and 193 houses on Wednesday.
• Took 17,253 steps on that Friday and just over 13,900 steps on Wednesday.
• That equates to 8.17 miles on Friday and 6.6 miles on Wednesday in 30 yards sprints from the truck to the house or business.
• The steps in and out of the truck equate to ascending and descending about 20 stories per day.
Needless to say, my knees are a bit sore after all this but I am thankful that I was paid to get daily exercise rather than joining a gym!
But this is also good practice. Beginning in January, we will kick off Servant Evangelism Saturdays to go connect to people in our community. At this point, we will be heading to a particularly busy park to hand out bottles of water and share Hope Church with those we meet.
If you want to join us, then let me know and COME ON!!!!!
If you want to contribute to the ministry of Hope Church and buy some water bottles, then send me an email and let me know. We’ll send you the address where you can mail your checks. And yes, we can also accept online donations. Just ask!
New Years blessings from the Malsons and Hope Church
Paul
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Tonight
After spending this evening in worship at Crossroads Community Church, we are blessed to be home at a relatively early time, a rarity for our family on Christmas Eve.
We are watching and listening to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s Christmas special – She’s Coming Home for Christmas.
We are blessed to be together.
I shared with Amber yesterday that the song, She’s Coming Home for Christmas, speaks of my heart for her. It speaks of the emotions that I felt on October 27th, when she shared of the transformation that God performed in her heart at Mercy. We are glad to have Amber home. Her most immediate future starts in January when she takes her first college classes.
We are blessed with two good kids. Robby is happy this Christmas season in a new and special way. He is thankful for the friends, male and female, that he has developed here in Lakeland. Also, for the first time in his life, Robby is making straight A’s. Daily, Robby works on his guitar and his music is being welcomed and appreciated at Crossroads.
I am blessed to have Vivian by my side. The last few months have been very challenging indeed. However, we are going through them together, united and loved. That makes all the difference.
We are making new friends here and expect Hope Church to begin forming in January. Our excitement grows daily as we expect God to move in new and creative ways. Stay tuned.
Merry Christmas to all of you.
It is interesting that we don’t know all of you who read my blog. But we do know many of you. To all we know, thank you for being in our lives. We cherish you. To those we don't, God has brought you here for a reason. Be blessed this season.....and every coming day. Open your heart’s door to God and watch what He does.
Love,
The Malsons
We are watching and listening to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s Christmas special – She’s Coming Home for Christmas.
We are blessed to be together.
I shared with Amber yesterday that the song, She’s Coming Home for Christmas, speaks of my heart for her. It speaks of the emotions that I felt on October 27th, when she shared of the transformation that God performed in her heart at Mercy. We are glad to have Amber home. Her most immediate future starts in January when she takes her first college classes.
We are blessed with two good kids. Robby is happy this Christmas season in a new and special way. He is thankful for the friends, male and female, that he has developed here in Lakeland. Also, for the first time in his life, Robby is making straight A’s. Daily, Robby works on his guitar and his music is being welcomed and appreciated at Crossroads.
I am blessed to have Vivian by my side. The last few months have been very challenging indeed. However, we are going through them together, united and loved. That makes all the difference.
We are making new friends here and expect Hope Church to begin forming in January. Our excitement grows daily as we expect God to move in new and creative ways. Stay tuned.
Merry Christmas to all of you.
It is interesting that we don’t know all of you who read my blog. But we do know many of you. To all we know, thank you for being in our lives. We cherish you. To those we don't, God has brought you here for a reason. Be blessed this season.....and every coming day. Open your heart’s door to God and watch what He does.
Love,
The Malsons
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Christmas Presents
As we move quickly towards Christmas, Vivian and I have recommitted ourselves to a deeper prayer life. Our experiences the last two and a half months have brought us to an absolutely daily reliance on Christ. Sometimes, literally, we weren’t certain where the money would come for the week’s groceries.
We are learning to lean on Christ on a whole new level.
This week’s presents –
On Tuesday, UPS called and hired me for extra Christmas help. This is temporary but will keep us fed through the month. I’ve been warned I would lose 10 pounds in the two and a half weeks. That’s OK, though. I have already lost 12 and that would get me 5 pounds BELOW my target.
On Wednesday, I spoke with the area director for Liberty Tax Service and we are discussing a management position for January and February.
On Thursday, Amber completed the application process for college and will register for classes on Saturday. She is excited, and a bit nervous, about her new phase in life.
On Friday, Ted Payne and I are connecting with a couple of retail contacts to discuss our HVAC ventures. It appears that we are close to closing the first of what could turn into significant and large contracts. We hope to be positioned for 2010’s hot weather.
Finally, we appear to have a contract on our house. We are praying that we don’t have to make a January mortgage payment.
To all of you who pray daily for us, “THANK YOU!!!” Please continue to pray that the items above actually come to fruition.
For those that support us monthly, “THANK YOU!!!” You don’t know how you have blessed us. Literally, there have been days your gift has brought us to tears and to our knees.
Merry Christmas to you all!
Paul
Friday, December 4, 2009
Hope Church and the TrashMountainProject
Today I met with Brett Durbin with the Trash Mountain project to get to know him and the ministry better. This is a man and a ministry that I really like.
Brett is graduating from Asbury Seminary next weekend with a master’s degree in Christian Leadership. He has served most recently as the college pastor at a large church here in Lakeland. His passion, though, is The Trash Mountain Project.
We connected a couple of weeks ago as I heard him speak about the work among some of the most impoverished kids in the world; Kids that forage through mountains of trash for their daily subsistence. These kids are knee deep in decaying garbage, walk among used hypodermic needles laced with HIV/AIDS and other extremely communicable diseases while they search for anything that may be sold to provide for their family. Oftentimes, these kids are as young as 6 years old. The Trash Mountain Project is building homes for the families that live in shanties on city dumps.
Hope Church is partnering with the Trash Mountain Project as our global mission. We have agreed to provide whatever leadership we can to help them accomplish their mission. At the same time, we are connecting with people who are looking for a new church in Lakeland who have also been touched by this global ministry.
Please pass the link around to your friends and family members. Let’s make this viral. If you could, please also pass this link around to anyone who has an organization or a trust who helps fund caring for the most impoverished kids around the world.
http://TrashMountainProject.com/Media.asp
Finally, if you would, please post the link above to the videos of this vital ministry as your Facebook status.
Sincerely,
Paul
Brett is graduating from Asbury Seminary next weekend with a master’s degree in Christian Leadership. He has served most recently as the college pastor at a large church here in Lakeland. His passion, though, is The Trash Mountain Project.
We connected a couple of weeks ago as I heard him speak about the work among some of the most impoverished kids in the world; Kids that forage through mountains of trash for their daily subsistence. These kids are knee deep in decaying garbage, walk among used hypodermic needles laced with HIV/AIDS and other extremely communicable diseases while they search for anything that may be sold to provide for their family. Oftentimes, these kids are as young as 6 years old. The Trash Mountain Project is building homes for the families that live in shanties on city dumps.
Hope Church is partnering with the Trash Mountain Project as our global mission. We have agreed to provide whatever leadership we can to help them accomplish their mission. At the same time, we are connecting with people who are looking for a new church in Lakeland who have also been touched by this global ministry.
Please pass the link around to your friends and family members. Let’s make this viral. If you could, please also pass this link around to anyone who has an organization or a trust who helps fund caring for the most impoverished kids around the world.
http://TrashMountainProject.com/Media.asp
Finally, if you would, please post the link above to the videos of this vital ministry as your Facebook status.
Sincerely,
Paul
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
And God says, "Jim Peters, my servant, come home. Be healed"
Today, a dear friend and an unbelievable servant of the Lord, has been healed in eternity.
Jim Peters closed his eyes on this side of eternity and now STANDS in the presence of God. You see, Jim Peters has lived with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig ’s Disease) for 20 years or so. I had the pleasure to serve Jim as his pastor at Woodbine and also count that time as “serving together.” Jim compiled computer graphics, created forms and was often a sounding board for my off-the-wall ideas.
Recently, Jim was ordained as a pastor and together with his wife, Pastor Deborah Peters, founded the Sozo ministry . Jim never let his disease stop his activity, though it limited his ability. Jim attended Promise Keepers conferences, served on many ministry teams and prayed for people, often times for their healing. Jim’s greatest gift was his unquenchable encouraging spirit.
Jim will be sorely missed, but not forever. We will be reunited with Jim when we are blessed to be where he now stands.
Paul Malson
ps..... Jim was the only person who I allowed to bite my fingers as I fed him McDonald French Fies.
Jim Peters closed his eyes on this side of eternity and now STANDS in the presence of God. You see, Jim Peters has lived with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig ’s Disease) for 20 years or so. I had the pleasure to serve Jim as his pastor at Woodbine and also count that time as “serving together.” Jim compiled computer graphics, created forms and was often a sounding board for my off-the-wall ideas.
Recently, Jim was ordained as a pastor and together with his wife, Pastor Deborah Peters, founded the Sozo ministry . Jim never let his disease stop his activity, though it limited his ability. Jim attended Promise Keepers conferences, served on many ministry teams and prayed for people, often times for their healing. Jim’s greatest gift was his unquenchable encouraging spirit.
Jim will be sorely missed, but not forever. We will be reunited with Jim when we are blessed to be where he now stands.
Paul Malson
ps..... Jim was the only person who I allowed to bite my fingers as I fed him McDonald French Fies.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Giving Thanks for the Body
2050 Thanksgiving Meals
Thanksgiving Day, Vivian, Amber, Robby and I took the morning and early afternoon to serve. It is a tradition that we started many years ago. This year, we partnered with eight churches to serve 2050 meals to families in the greater area. This is our first year but not the first year of this ministry.
Four years ago, a small group of Christ followers discovered that a local meals-on-wheels agency provided no meals for Thanksgiving. This is totally understandable when they serve 200 meals per day for 364 days (by the way, that is 72,800 meals per year). These individuals decided to stand in the gap and provide meals for those 200individuals.
A few years later, this ministry has blossomed to include 60 volunteers and 2050 Thanksgiving meals. Volunteers smoked and carved 180 turkeys, heated 100 gallons of corn and green beans and made cornbread dressing with 350 loaves of seasoned bread. Four people compiled 2100 containers of cranberry sauce. Drivers and assistants completed 50 routes to deliver all 2050 meals. Needless to say, it is a huge undertaking and growing every year.
The recipients include those alone and unable to provide for themselves or their family, as well as a group of migrant farm workers. Drivers met families in homes who, literally, were in tears of…well….thanksgiving.
We arrived home at 1:30pm and Robby and I quickly lit the grill to smoke our Turkey breast. Vivian and Amber prepared all the side dishes. Later for supper, we enjoyed our feast.
More importantly, though, we were thankful for the body of Christ doing what the body of Christ should do – taking care of others.
http://www.HopeChurchLakeland.org
Thanksgiving Day, Vivian, Amber, Robby and I took the morning and early afternoon to serve. It is a tradition that we started many years ago. This year, we partnered with eight churches to serve 2050 meals to families in the greater area. This is our first year but not the first year of this ministry.
Four years ago, a small group of Christ followers discovered that a local meals-on-wheels agency provided no meals for Thanksgiving. This is totally understandable when they serve 200 meals per day for 364 days (by the way, that is 72,800 meals per year). These individuals decided to stand in the gap and provide meals for those 200individuals.
A few years later, this ministry has blossomed to include 60 volunteers and 2050 Thanksgiving meals. Volunteers smoked and carved 180 turkeys, heated 100 gallons of corn and green beans and made cornbread dressing with 350 loaves of seasoned bread. Four people compiled 2100 containers of cranberry sauce. Drivers and assistants completed 50 routes to deliver all 2050 meals. Needless to say, it is a huge undertaking and growing every year.
The recipients include those alone and unable to provide for themselves or their family, as well as a group of migrant farm workers. Drivers met families in homes who, literally, were in tears of…well….thanksgiving.
We arrived home at 1:30pm and Robby and I quickly lit the grill to smoke our Turkey breast. Vivian and Amber prepared all the side dishes. Later for supper, we enjoyed our feast.
More importantly, though, we were thankful for the body of Christ doing what the body of Christ should do – taking care of others.
http://www.HopeChurchLakeland.org
Saturday, November 28, 2009
OK. After a long, prayerful search for a new church name, we’ve settled on “Hope Church.” So, Billy and Wallace, you are the closest. However, we had to seriously re-think our approach after reading Alan’s, Jason’s (2nd), Danny’s and Charlie’s.
Over the last six months, we have heard so many people asking, “Is there any hope?” This may be a cry from a financial crisis, a personal crisis, a relational crisis or a professional crisis. Some people are wondering aloud if there is hope in the midst of their present circumstances, or just in the afterlife. We know that true hope can be found only in Jesus Christ and experienced fully in close, vital relationships with others.
So, here it is:
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Over the last six months, we have heard so many people asking, “Is there any hope?” This may be a cry from a financial crisis, a personal crisis, a relational crisis or a professional crisis. Some people are wondering aloud if there is hope in the midst of their present circumstances, or just in the afterlife. We know that true hope can be found only in Jesus Christ and experienced fully in close, vital relationships with others.
So, here it is:
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Sustenance
One of the lessons that I thought I had learned through twenty-five years of ministry and two church plants (and now our third), is that God always provides, but often in unexpected ways.
This is more often than not a trite, hyper-spiritual saying, usually shared by someone with plenty soothing their conscience and whisking away someone in need, but whom they don’t intend to help.
We have learned this truth in very practical ways throughout the last month. We are trusting the Lord daily, sometimes moment by moment. We are driven to the Word of God to find our encouragement. In one hour, we will be discouraged with unexpected difficulties. In the next, God will have provided through a totally unexpected source, and frequently before we even knew we had a need.
This Thanksgiving we are doing what we always do: Serve those who have none. Thanksgiving day, we will deliver meals to those whose only available meal this Thanksgiving will be by us.
For those who are being used by God to support us, “Thank you.” You are truly a God-send.
To those whom the only support you can offer is prayer, “Thank you.” Prayer is the first work. I fully believe that when God prompts people to support us “out of the blue”, it is actually your prayers moving God who, in turn, moves others. Please keep praying.
This year we Give Thanks for His sustenance and the practical ways you show us love.
Most Sincerely,
The Malsons
ps.... Our next post will reveal our new church name and web address
This is more often than not a trite, hyper-spiritual saying, usually shared by someone with plenty soothing their conscience and whisking away someone in need, but whom they don’t intend to help.
We have learned this truth in very practical ways throughout the last month. We are trusting the Lord daily, sometimes moment by moment. We are driven to the Word of God to find our encouragement. In one hour, we will be discouraged with unexpected difficulties. In the next, God will have provided through a totally unexpected source, and frequently before we even knew we had a need.
This Thanksgiving we are doing what we always do: Serve those who have none. Thanksgiving day, we will deliver meals to those whose only available meal this Thanksgiving will be by us.
For those who are being used by God to support us, “Thank you.” You are truly a God-send.
To those whom the only support you can offer is prayer, “Thank you.” Prayer is the first work. I fully believe that when God prompts people to support us “out of the blue”, it is actually your prayers moving God who, in turn, moves others. Please keep praying.
This year we Give Thanks for His sustenance and the practical ways you show us love.
Most Sincerely,
The Malsons
ps.... Our next post will reveal our new church name and web address
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Trash Mountain
For over a year, the word "Hope" has been prevalent in both our minds and heart. Everywhere we go people asking the question, "Is there really any hope?" The reckless nature of our culture has led many people to believe that there is no hope. We haven't settled on a name for our new church but the word hope will play a significant part. Right now, we are leaning towards Hope for the Journey Fellowship. If you have other suggestions let us know.
Tonight, we met a couple of guys who are bringing hope to those whom would never dream of a good life. These guys founded The Trash Mountain Project after experiencing, first hand, the squalor in which some of the world's poorest people live. Children walking around barefoot with used, dirty and disease infested syringes poking to the sky. Infants dying from the disease that they sit in day after day as their parents work the trash mountain.
Look up Gehena in a good Bible dictionary or even on Wikipedia. Then watch the Cambodia video at http://www.TrashMountain.com.
Tonight, we met a couple of guys who are bringing hope to those whom would never dream of a good life. These guys founded The Trash Mountain Project after experiencing, first hand, the squalor in which some of the world's poorest people live. Children walking around barefoot with used, dirty and disease infested syringes poking to the sky. Infants dying from the disease that they sit in day after day as their parents work the trash mountain.
Look up Gehena in a good Bible dictionary or even on Wikipedia. Then watch the Cambodia video at http://www.TrashMountain.com.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Giving Thanks
As we approach the date on the calendar we set aside as a time to give thanks, I wanted to share with you mine. I am thankful…
...for the people who pray for us daily. Prayer IS the work. Everything else is a response.
...for our supporters, both the churches and the individuals, we are indebted to you. I know you give monthly as a response to what God is doing in your life, and as a form of stewardship. But we love and thank God for each of you.
...for the opportunity to minister in Lakeland. We’ve already had God moments with people whom we have come in contact. And for that, please pray for Sarah, a new follower of Christ, and Sue, who came back to the Lord and kicked her debilitating drug habit.
...for our family, near and far. We are blessed by your love for us and your support of us over the last 20 ½ years of marriage and ministry.
...for doctors. Robby broke his wrist and we’ve learned that part of our calling is to keep docs in business. We’ve also learned to look for opportunities in these all-too-regular meetings.
...for Mercy Ministries. Thank you for being a front-line ministry to girls around the world.
...for the daily leading of the Lord. As I walked a neighboring shopping center to meet the business owners, I met a man from Virginia. He wasn’t sure how he was going to get all his work done prior to leaving Florida that afternoon. I shared with him what my survey company did and he hired me for the week. We’re praying for more to come, but God is showing us what ultimate trust in him is all about.
Thank you all. We love you all.
Paul, Vivian, Amber and Robby
...for the people who pray for us daily. Prayer IS the work. Everything else is a response.
...for our supporters, both the churches and the individuals, we are indebted to you. I know you give monthly as a response to what God is doing in your life, and as a form of stewardship. But we love and thank God for each of you.
...for the opportunity to minister in Lakeland. We’ve already had God moments with people whom we have come in contact. And for that, please pray for Sarah, a new follower of Christ, and Sue, who came back to the Lord and kicked her debilitating drug habit.
...for our family, near and far. We are blessed by your love for us and your support of us over the last 20 ½ years of marriage and ministry.
...for doctors. Robby broke his wrist and we’ve learned that part of our calling is to keep docs in business. We’ve also learned to look for opportunities in these all-too-regular meetings.
...for Mercy Ministries. Thank you for being a front-line ministry to girls around the world.
...for the daily leading of the Lord. As I walked a neighboring shopping center to meet the business owners, I met a man from Virginia. He wasn’t sure how he was going to get all his work done prior to leaving Florida that afternoon. I shared with him what my survey company did and he hired me for the week. We’re praying for more to come, but God is showing us what ultimate trust in him is all about.
Thank you all. We love you all.
Paul, Vivian, Amber and Robby
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