Running with Scissors

Sunday Mind Dump

2012-01-29T16:16:00.002-05:00

I love Potluck Sundays! So much food and fellowship...they really are a great time....although it was funny...as soon as we left church April was telling me she was already hungry again...She is a trip! So let's dump:

Great food and fellowship...I know I already mentioned it but you can't say it enough!
Had our church business meeting today, approved a budget, and talked last years finances.
Also...we announced today that we have raised the initial $15,000 for our matching $15,000 grant. Can I just say right now how awesome that is! God provides!!
So many big things on the agenda for this year...I am really excited about where we are as a church.
Working on some new message series...I can promise you this...it won't be dull :)
Someone (to remain nameless in order to prevent a liable suit) was taking pictures of me today in order to highlight the fact I wear Hawaiian shirts and sandals in the winter in Ohio...like that is so strange!
I better get back to work. The rest of the MythBuster series isn't going to write itself!!

Sunday Mind Dump

2012-01-22T16:47:00.002-05:00

Some days you feel great teaching and some days you don't. For me, today was one of those days I felt like I had tunnel vision and wasn't thinking as clearly as when I wrote the messages. Some days are just plain better than others! So, let's dump:

A heavy teaching day...the MythBusters subjects were very difficult and the room was fairly split on how they felt about the questions before I presented my answers...That makes for a tricky answer! No matter what you say someone isn't going to agree with it!
I do want to say a huge thank you to everyone who volunteers and makes 242 possible....you guys are awesome :)
Next week is our 5th Sunday potluck...no message...just fellowship...I love it!
Also, we will have our all church business meeting after the potluck. We'll go over the finances from last year and talk about this years budget. We'll also talk about a few things we want to do this year....should be fun!
Took a 2 hour nap today after church...that ALMOST never happens!
Now, on to some Chili and Football!!!
I am out!

Sunday Mind Dump ( Monday Edition)

2012-01-16T08:10:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we kicked off a new teaching series called "MythBusters". As part of this series, I am answering the questions asked by members of 242 church. It was a lot of fun answering the questions and honestly, messages like this help keep me theologically and intellectually sharper...so, let's dump:

Question 1: Does God still speak to us: Yes, primarily through the Bible, Occasionally through visions, dreams, circumstances, and people, and very rarely audibly.
Question 2: What does the Bible say about race: We are all one people. Genetically speaking the different racial characteristics are a very small part of our genes.
Question 3: Does the Bible mention dinosaurs: I believe it does. See Job 40...
Question 4: Can a person partake in communion without being baptized? Yes...
Question 5: Can God create a rock so large he cannot lift it? No, not because he's not powerful enough, but because it would go against his nature...
If weren't in church I suggest you go to the web site (www.findlay242.org) and give the message a listen...I think you'll enjoy the message and perhaps learn something!
Great day all around for us....love it when we have to pull out extra tables and chairs to seat everyone!!!
Next week we have more difficult subjects....I can't wait!

Sunday Mind Dump

2012-01-08T15:32:00.002-05:00

Some days I just love being able to teach...today was one of those days! There is just something awesome about standing before God's people and allowing God to speak through you in a way that buildts peoples faith in him. It's awesome and very humbling....so let's dump:

Talked this morning about what do we do when God has promised us something but it doesn't seem like it's happening...in fact, many times, it seems like it's getting worse and not better.
It's at times like that we need to remember our circumstances do not have to be at 100% for our faith to be at 100%. We trust God in spite of what is going on around us.
Next week we are starting our mythbusters series...I can promise you this....it's going to be fun!!
I think this morning was the best the band has sounded in a long time...we played and sang well...you guys are awesome!
Looking forward to the end of the month....yep, you guessed it, it's potluck Sunday!
Loved seeing people singing, raising hands, and worshiping this morning...Awesome!
Time to watch some football!
See ya!

What's more important-Knowledge or love?

2012-01-05T19:58:00.004-05:00

Every now and then I read something that I just fall in love with and today was one of those days. Here is an article written by Francis Chan (one of the best Bible teachers out there)! Enjoy!
I've enclosed the link at the bottom of the story if you want to check in out at it's original source.

Francis Chan: What's More Important—Knowledge or Love?

by Francis Chan

Your brilliance is worthless if you’re not building up your brother—and even worse if you’re destroying him with your knowledge.

Knowledge is essential, but it’s not sufficient. It takes knowledge for me to write this. We need to think. We must know the truth.

But knowledge alone is not sufficient for the Christian life. It’s not enough just to have knowledge. That’s why Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:2: “If I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” Think hard. But know that it’s not enough. Paul says even if he had all knowledge but didn’t love, he would amount to nothing. In other words, you can be brilliant and worthless.

It would be like a great basketball player who never misses a shot but keeps shooting into the opponent’s basket. He may say, “I was five for five today from the three-point line,” but his teammates would respond, “But you’re killing our team! You’re shooting at the wrong basket!” He answers confidently, “But I did not miss.” That is the kind of attitude that Paul is confronting here. You might be brilliant, but you’re killing our team. You’re not building up the brothers; you’re making them feel dumb and wounding their conscience. You’re not stirring them up to love and good deeds. You just keep making them feel inadequate. By your knowledge, this weaker brother is being destroyed!

Your brilliance is worthless if you’re not building up your brother—and even worse if you’re destroying him with your knowledge. So when you look at people, do you love them? Do you think, Let me use my knowledge to build this person up?

What Christians Say to Each Other

So often when I read statements on blogs (or tweets)—comments that brothers will write to those who are supposed to be fellow brothers—I think, “Where is the love?” It burdens me. I can’t believe some of the things Christians say to each other in person—and maybe especially online (when you don’t have to look them in the face). How is what you’re saying supposed to build that brother—or anyone else who hears it or reads it? Our knowledge should be pressed into the service of love. It should serve to build each other up. That’s what love does. It builds up. It looks to help others, not hurt them.

True Knowledge

It is such a danger to puff yourself up and imagine that you’re a brilliant person. It’s like the school bully who imagines himself as the hero because he is the strongest. He can beat anyone up. But everyone else knows that he’s not a hero but a jerk. If he were a real hero, he would defend the weak. He would be lifting them up, using his strength to care for them and protect them, not to bully them.

In the same way, with biblical and theological “knowledge” come the intellectual bullies who seem to know so much and imagine themselves to be so knowledgeable. But Paul is saying that they may be only imagining that they are knowledgeable, because if they really knew, they would use their knowledge not to weaken others but to strengthen them. Not to tear them down but to build people up. That’s what love does.

A Closing Challenge to Thinkers

Thinkers, let’s not fool ourselves: To “be conformed to the image of [Christ]” is what we were predestined for, right (Rom. 8:29)? We’ve been predestined to walk as Jesus walked. It’s great if we have thought hard about Jesus and wrestled with doctrines such as predestination, but my prayer is that this information becomes true knowledge and that we actually become like him and that our knowledge doesn’t make us arrogant so that we gloat about it and show off what we know. My prayer for me, and for you, is that everyone we come in contact with would feel our love for them and be built up. That they would see the fruit of our having said, “How can I lift them up with this knowledge that I have?”

Let’s not fool ourselves and imagine that we know so much. Maybe we don’t know anything at all. Maybe some of us have been using our knowledge to tear our brother down and hurt that brother for whom Christ died. Let’s not be guilty of the Corinthian error.

So I’m asking God even right now as I write these final words that he would give me love for others. Oh, God, let me believe what I’m saying. And I hope that you would think through your words and how you can build others up and think about others as brothers and sisters in Christ—so much so that when unbelievers see it, they will have a glimpse of God.

http://www.churchleaders.com/pastors/pastor-articles/157071-francis_chan_whats_more_important_knowledge_or_love.html#.TwZGyeTlxX0.email

Sunday Mind Dump ( Monday Edition)

2012-01-01T17:47:00.002-05:00

What a cold and windy day to start off a new year! That said, it was still a great day...so, let's dump:

Started a new 2 week series based on the book Sun Stand Still. One of my favorite stories and prayers found in Joshua 10. Awesome God sized miracles and faith!
We talked about the notion today that if their is something in our lives that's too big for us to do it's just the right size for God.
Praying a Sun Stand Still prayer means you might have to march (or pray) all night long for it to come through. God wants to see our faith before he turns on his power.
Next week we'll look at what do we do when we have a Sun Stand Still type of prayer but we haven't yet seen God move? What then?
Some really cool things on the agenda. 242 is going to have a huge 2012!
Over the next month I'll share some of my Sun Stand Still prayers for 242.
I am out!

Sunday Mind Dump ( Monday Edition)

2011-12-26T08:55:00.002-05:00

What a great Christmas day! It wasn't a white Christmas, but any day spent with family is ok in my book...so, let's dump:

Glad to be back from our vacation. We went to Southern California for a few days. We love the weather and scenery there, but it's always nice to be home.
Yesterday we talked about Jesus being our Light at Christmas. He came into this world to light up our lives and that was the best gift God could have ever given.
I was amazed at the crowd we had yesterday. Honestly, I thought no one would show up for Church on Christmas morning!
For the next two weekends we are going to take a look at one of the boldest prayers ever uttered and what it means for us. It's based on a book called "Sun Stand Still" and the prayer was uttered by Joshua....it's going to be good :)
The second week of the two week message I'll share my "Sun Stand Still" prayers for our church.
Better get off this computer!

While you're away

2011-12-24T07:58:00.002-05:00

So, for the last week April and I have been on the west coast with a little get away I had promised her before she started law school. I love traveling because, for me, I can leave my work behind (for the most part) and just veg out a little. Many times, I'll take a book with me and read that, but this time I didn't even do that! I just wanted to get away, pray, and listen to what God had to say to me.

It's interesting how God speaks. Here we were in one of the most traffic laden places on the planet (LA) and in the midst of all the sights, sounds, and life that is LA I found myself spending time alone with God. I started praying that God would reveal himself to me and speak to me. I can honestly say he did just that....The message was a private one, but something I really needed to hear from him.

I would encourage each of you to do whatever you can to get away for a while. Maybe you don't need or can't take a trip across the country. But, you can turn off the computer, TV, and buzz of the cell phone for a few hours on a Saturday and just listen to what God is saying with his still small voice. I promise you that when you do, it's amazing and you'll leave that experience with God a better person and feeling like a million bucks :)

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-12-11T17:45:00.002-05:00

What a great day. I had a ball teaching this morning....so, let's dump:

This morning we had sort of a Pre-Christmas message. We talked about how Jesus is the Way, The Truth, and the Life.
One thing we talked about it detail was the concept of seeking and asking questions. If you're not sure I encourage you to seek. But, do it with integrity. Don't preform an opinion about God then only look for things that support your opinion. Search with an open mind and be willing to accept God for who he is, not what you want to make him.
Played Bongo's again today...how fun is that!
April is studying herself to death! The poor girl hasn't slept more than a few hours a night for the last week. Exams are over Thursday....I expect she'll collapse after the last one!!
Thank you to everyone who serves at 242. You guys make my job so fun!!
Remember....Stacy Lauer is opening her house up on Christmas eve at 5 for time of fellowship and fun....hope to see you there!
Thank you to everyone who wished me happy birthday yesterday!! Didn't really get to celebrate it since April is in exam mode....we will soon though!
Had my last class Thursday....one last paper to proofread and turn in then I am done with my Ed.S. program....Graduation is next weekend!
I am out!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-12-04T16:27:00.002-05:00

Some days being a pastor is more fun than other days. Today was a fun day! So, let's dump:

This was the last weekend of our People of the Second Chance series. This morning we talked about learning how to forgive ourselves and move past our regret. Satan is a very real enemy and he would like nothing more than for you to swim in a sea of guilt. Don't do it.
We were pretty full this morning. I saw a few guys going to get extra chairs....love seeing that!
Got to play the bongo's this morning. That was fun...I've never really played them....I can play drums but bongos...we'll I guess after today I can add those to my list of things I can play.
Not sure what the message is going to be about next week. I know what I am doing for Christmas....but the next two weeks....I am clueless....I guess I'll just sit down and see what comes out!
April is in full on exam prep mode. She's got 2 this week and 2 next week....they are very hard and constitute 100% of your grade for that class....needless to say she is in freakout mode....but I have complete confidence in her....not only is she pretty...she's very smart...she's going to do great!
Got a lot of good series coming up after Christmas. Hold onto your forks....what's coming next is going to be good :)
I am outta here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-11-27T15:24:00.003-05:00

Well...this has been a really great long Thanksgiving weekend for me. I got lots of work done and even slept in a little! So, let's dump:

Week three of our People of the Second Chance today. We talked about apologizing and seeking forgiveness from those we've hurt. It's really easy to see ourselves as a victim...it's much harder to look in the mirror and see the hurt we've caused others.
Fun Fact: I love Christmas time.
April reminded me on the way home today that I forgot to lead communion....I guess that means one one thing...We are doing communion twice next week!
Next week we are going to take a long hard look at learning to forgive ourselves and embrace the future that God has for us....I promise...it'll be good!
Got some really fun stuff coming up over the next few months.
I never would have thought so many people would want one of our People of the Second Chance Tee Shirts!! I am sorry I didn't order more! We got them for the people on stage and everyone who works with the kids...next time I do something like this we'll have to order more....if you didn't get one...please accept my apologies....we were just trying to keep the costs down.
So much on the agenda....I'll fill ya'll in later!! I Am outta here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-11-20T18:23:00.002-05:00

So here we are...it was week 2 of People of the Second Chance. Having a great time with this series...I know this morning subject was difficult...but something each of us have to do....so let's dump:

Talked about Forgiveness this morning. Difficult subject...very hard to do but we have to...
Just want to say thank you to everyone who is helping out at 242...you guys are awesome.
Felt weird to be on stage singing today...Feel almost naked without a guitar in my hands!!!
Looking forward to Thanksgiving...going to try cooking a turkey on the grill this year....unless the weather gets in the way!
Played tennis this afternoon...now I am sore!
Only a few more weeks and assignments until I am done with all my classes...can't come fast enough I can tell you that much.
I am out of here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-11-13T15:18:00.003-05:00

What a great day. April told me that today was her favorite message ever...So you know it must have been OK :) So, let's dump:

Started People of the Second Chance this morning. I was really excited about it and I had several people come up to me with tears in their eyes telling me how much they needed to hear the message today. Simply Awesome!!
Today we talked about not listening to what others say you are but listening to what God says about you. If you ask him, he'll give you a new name and a new purpose in life...
Love seeing all the new faces at church. Let's pray it's only the start.
Had fun playing guitar today. I am slowly getting more comfortable playing again.
Lot's of people gone today but we were still full....that is awesome!
Playing around with communion. Might try something different next week.
Great questions coming in for our Mythbusters series....I can't wait!
Took a great nap today...that almost never happens!
Loving where God has us right now....
Time to get off this computer....peace out!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-11-06T16:22:00.002-05:00

What a great day out there. It's November and it's Sunny and in the 60's in Ohio....you just can't complain about that! So let's dump:

Taught today on a tough subject....How to quit playing God. We play God by judging those around us when God just wants us to love on them and leave the judgement to him. It's easier said than done I know...but that is the challenge we all have.
Today was the last of the B2B series. I've really enjoyed this series but I am ready to move on!
Next week we are starting the series People Of The Second Chance. I can promise you this, it's going to be one of the most positive and uplifting series you've ever been in. If you've got a friend or family member struggling with the regrets of the past....DO WHATEVER you can to get them in church...they won't be disappointed.
We are trying to expand our worship area so Myself and John are going to start playing with Cori. We need some additional people up there playing instruments and singing...If you know a singer looking for a church home, send them our way!
I am constantly amazed at how God provides for his church and his people. It's amazing!
If you are looking for ways to pray for your church here are a few things we need: Pray God continues to bring new people/families into 242, pray for the health and welfare of our volunteers and staff, pray that God continues to bless us financially, pray God provides the right location at the right time when it's time for us to move on.
We are not doing a Christmas Eve service this year....Stacy Lauer has offered to open up her home for an open house....we'll have a time for prayer and Communion...times will follow.
It was nice to play my guitar again today....I am rusty but it's still nice!

I am out of here!

An Ounce of Anointing

2011-11-04T07:27:00.002-04:00

I loved this blog post by Pastor Steven Furtick....thought I would share it with you....if you want to see the original check out www.stevenfurtick.com.

An ounce of anointing is more precious than a thousand tons of talent.

When I say anointing, I’m talking about the supernatural enabling of the Holy Spirit.

If you’ve got it, you’ll do greater things for God than you can imagine, and live a remarkable life for His glory.

If you don’t, you won’t.

If you’re anointed by God, you’ll do things far beyond your capability. You’ll live in a constant state of humility, because you need the Lord for every step, every breath, every situation. You’ll live in constant amazement at all the ways He comes through for you.

If you’re not anointed by God, even your strengths will become weaknesses in time. You’ll still do good stuff, maybe even impressive stuff. But it won’t have eternal power in it, and it will be just a small slice of what you could have done, if the Lord was doing it through you.

Talent is a great thing to have. It’s a gift from God.
But having talent without anointing is kind of like having seatwarmers in a car but not having an engine under the hood.

God can work in spite of our lack of talent. Through the anointing, even our weakness can become a playing field for the Lord to show off His strength.
Ask Moses.

But talent alone isn’t enough to get the job done if you don’t have God’s power behind it. You’ll come up short in the end.
Ask Samson.

I’m asking God today for a fresh anointing on my life.

One Month To Go

2011-11-01T20:07:00.003-04:00

I haven't said much about it because I didn't want to sound like I was complaining but I can say I will be as happy as a clam in a month. I have been so busy it's not even funny for the last two months. On top of taking on the church again at the start of Sept, I began my new job at TPS. I love it but its been a ton of work and a major adjustment to my schedule. To top all that off, I am taking the last two classes for my Ed.S. degree and they are kicking my rear too!!

Come on December....let's get here so I can get the classes off my plate and spend more time on church and the other job!!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-10-30T16:22:00.003-04:00

Had a fun time this morning! I love 5 Sunday months...who doesn't love a good potluck? So let's dump:

Had our potluck this morning. I ate a lot of food...I am using that as my excuse for getting beat on the tennis court today...I was too full to move!
Enjoying some quality football this afternoon.
In two weeks we are starting our new teaching series called People of the Second Chance...I can't speak for you but I am glad God keeps giving me second chances!
Also talked about a series we are going to start in January called MythBusters. I did this once before at our church in Toledo and it was a ton of fun...Looking forward to it again.
As a part of Mythbusters I need your help...The only way the series works is if you ask questions for me to answer...so if you've got a question you need/want answered...let me know!
Time to enjoy a few hours of down time!

See ya!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-10-23T16:34:00.002-04:00

What a great day today. The weather is awesome! So, let's dump:

One of my favorite messages today...This morning we talked about arguments and conflict and why we seem to end up in the middle of it. You can check out the message here: www.findlay242.org.
Love seeing all the new faces coming in...seems like each week it's someone or some new family...that is AWESOME!!
So many cool things coming up...next Sunday it's the 5th Sunday potluck...come hungry and bring a dish to pass!
Next Saturday it's the Fall fest at Kala's....it'll be fun!
Lot's of things on our radar that could bring big benefits to the church. It would be so cool just to seek some of them come to pass!
I am out!

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-10-17T06:55:00.002-04:00

What a fun day at 242. We had one of our largest attended services...very cool. So, let's dump:

Loved the message yesterday. I don't know about you but I needed to hear it too. Although, I will say never felt like myself while teaching it yesterday. I felt like I was tripping over my words all morning....you have days like that...
Only two weeks till our breakfast potluck...needless to say, April is excited!
I had a very busy and full weekend...I need a weekend to recoup from this weekend!
So, yesterday we talked about our actions and how they should reflect our faith....we all need to put our money, actions, lifestyle where our mouths are.
Working on some technical issues at the church. Hopefully the lighthouse gets them together over the next week.
Gary Nissley did a great job with the Fish on Sat....very tasty...If you weren't there you really missed it!
Really excited about the next teaching series....more on that in a few weeks!

I am outta here...I need to get to work today!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-10-09T15:10:00.002-04:00

What a day! I am continually blown away by God. This last month has been awesome at 242...so let's dump about it:

Preached this morning on how to be blessed by the Bible. It was one of my favorite messages of all time...
Not sure if you have noticed, but our attendance is way up lately....That is nice and I am praying for many more.
Got word of something huge that God did for 242 this week. I'll fill you in on it soon. You'll be blown away like I was...
More tech troubles this morning...Ugh...even with that...we still had a great morning!
After church I got a one hour nap in and now I am enjoying football as I write this...yep, I love Sunday's in the fall!
Next Saturday it's the Fish Fry...come hungry and ready to chow!
Still can't believe my Michigan team is 6-0....it's a long way from last season!
Better get off this thing!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-10-02T17:28:00.002-04:00

What a great Sunday. Loved seeing a packed house at church! So, let's dump:

This morning everyone heard it first. I REALLY like doughnuts! Thanks Tina!
So, we are in week 4 of our series and we talked about overcoming temptation. Too many things to list here with respect to the message but I will say this....if you don't want to get stung get away from where the bee's are.
Love my wife. She's really working hard at school. It takes it's toll but she's hanging in there like a trooper!
Did some updating to the web site yesterday. I have heard from a few people that it needed updating so I finally got to it!
Making home made vegatable beef soup for dinner...yum!
Played in a tennis match today...I am sore!
Got the next few months of teaching series down...some good stuff on the agenda...already thinking about what I want to do for Christmas services :)
I am outta here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-09-25T17:19:00.002-04:00

What a great but long day! Church, the a birthday party for my boy, then a hour with some old friends....Now a little catching up on some football...so let's dump before I get distracted!

Having a blast teaching out of James. Today we talked about The Double Minded Man. I think today's message was something all of us needed.
Getting really excited about some things. Looking forward to seeing God do his thing.
Praying for a few people that have some potentially serious health issues.
Got some really good messages coming up...only hope and pray I can do them justice.
Loved seeing god at work in some peoples lives this afternoon. He really is in charge, sometimes it's just hard to see it in the valley.
Thinking I need to pick up a guitar and play a little soon...
Looking forward to starting my new job tomorrow. I've been working on getting this job for a couple of years. Exciting!
April wants to move to Perrysburg next spring...anyone want to buy our house?
I better get off this thing and get to the games....I am starting to ramble!

I'm Jacked Up

2011-09-24T10:37:00.002-04:00

I've preached a lot of messages over the years and I try to keep myself from getting to excited about some or to down about others. One of the things I have come to realize is how little I have to do with the whole process. The harder I work on something doesn't really account for a more effective message (not that we shouldn't put time in our messages.) It's just that, God is the one who stirs the heart and so I try to teach each message the best I can knowing that some will be great and others will be duds...but the results are always up to Him.

All that said, for some reason I am really jacked up about tomorrows message....Just a general sense that someone is going to be touched by God and they will have a break through in their thought life...

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-09-18T16:06:00.002-04:00

Great Sunday...I love days like this...the weather is awesome, football is on, and my teams all won....that helps!!

So let's dump:

One of my favorite Sunday's at 242 so far. The service flowed the smoothest yet. That's one of the things I have really been trying to work on....things flowing!
Really enjoying this message series on the book of James. Today, we talked about growing through our problems (James 1:2-6). It's tough to bring up this stuff, but it feels so much better when we give it over to God.
Cori did a GREAT job with the song Blessings today! Loved it!
Love the fact that we are getting a Families Pastor in. John is going to do a great job and really help grow the church!
Just want to give a shout out to Craig, Don, and Jose'. Love you guys coming in and helping us with set up....takes so much pressure off me!
Looking forward to the Fish Fry....be thinking of who you can invite...good food and nice company...who can ask for more?
My heart breaks when I think about the pain so many of our friends at church are in.
Well...I better get back to football...my TV is getting jealous :)

And Then Some!

2011-09-16T21:34:00.004-04:00

I follow several pastors through their blogging. It helps remind me of things and occasionally I find inspiration through something someone has written. Today I really enjoyed this post written by Pastor Steven Furtick....hope you enjoy it too :)

Check out his site at: www.stevenfurtick.com

Drive and motivation is the secret to success and doing anything worthwhile and significant in life. Skill and natural aptitude only takes you so far. At the end of the day, it’s your heart and the drive to go above and beyond that is going to set you apart from the masses that live in the muck of mediocrity.

From my experience, I’ve found that there are three types of people when it comes to their heart and motivation. Each person puts forth a certain kind of effort, and each person receives a corresponding reward.

The first person has a bare minimum mentality. They’re D- people. Doing enough to pass, but nothing more. They spend the bare minimum time with their spouses that it takes to appease them. They turn in work that meets the bare minimum requirements. And then they wonder why their marriage sucks, they never get a promotion, and they can never find fulfillment in life. It’s because a bare minimum mentality reaps bare minimum rewards.

The second person runs by the mantra of good enough. They’re B, maybe B+ people. They turn in good work that shows effort. They do the routine daily and weekly duties that sets you up for a good marriage. But they leave it at that. They get the ball 80 yards down the field, but because they aren’t willing to put in extra effort, they usually settle for a field goal, which is good. But they could have gotten a touchdown, which would have been great.

And then there are people with world-class drive. They’re A+ people. Good enough isn’t good enough for them when they know they have greatness in them. As a result, they generally have great jobs, great marriages, and greater fulfillment.

What sets these people apart really comes down to three simple words. And they’re words all of us can adopt as our own. These three words will make you stand out from the crowd. They’ll set you up for success in every area of your life and take you a long way.

In your marriage.
Your job.
Your relationships.
Your church.
Everywhere.

Three words:
And then some.

People with world-class drive who reap world-class rewards do what they’re supposed to do…AND THEN SOME.

They don’t just get flowers for their spouse on their anniversary. They also do it on random Wednesdays for no reason at all. They don’t just do what they’re asked at work. They find ways to go above and beyond.

Choose to live life with an “and then some” mentality. Reject mediocrity. Don’t let good enough be good enough for you when you have God in you. And therefore unlimited greatness in you.

Our Churches Should Be No Shame Zones....

2011-09-12T06:59:00.001-04:00

Every morning I get a short devotional in my mailbox from Pastor Rick Warren. This mornings was outstanding...see below & enjoy....nice word Pastor Rick!

Our Churches Should Be No-Shame Zones

by Rick Warren

And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ. Ephesians 4:32 (HCSB)

Our world is broken; everything and everyone in this world is broken. In fact, there are only two kinds of people in the world: those who know they’re broken and those who are broken but don’t know it. God wants us to know that we’re broken.

That’s why our churches should be no-shame zones, places for broken people to come when they hurt.

Colossians 3:12 says, “[A]s God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (NIV). Because we know how much God loves us, we can demonstrate compassion, kindness, humility and patience with others. And that’s exactly what the church has been called to do. It’s the place for the broken, the place for those whose lives don’t work out as they should.

The truth is that the church shouldn’t just “accept” hurting people. We should want hurting people in our midst. We’ve got to realize that every sinner has a future and every saint has a past.

Recovery ministries (like Celebrate Recovery at Saddleback) aren’t a sideline show in the church; they’re at the core of what Jesus calls the church to do and to be. We’ve all got hurts, habits and hang-ups that we need God to transform. God wants to use the church to do that.

That means since you’re the church, He wants to use you.

God wants us to be people of the second chance. But we can’t be second-chance people until we realize how much of a second chance we’ve been given. Too many Christians don’t feel forgiven — so they don’t let anyone else feel forgiven either.

When we realize how much grace God showed to us when He saved us, sharing that kind of grace with others will only be natural. The Bible says in Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as God forgave you through Christ.”

Second chances aren’t just for addicts and convicts; second chances are for all of us. No matter how squeaky-clean our lives have looked on the outside, the Bible is clear that we’ve all needed a second chance at some point in our lives.

In fact, it’s when we realize how much God loves us and has forgiven us that we’re able to properly take that love to others. The people who are best able to show God’s love to others are the ones who feel God’s love the most fully.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-09-11T15:12:00.002-04:00

What a great day this has been. Church, football, short nap....all my favorites compacted into one day...so let's dump!

Great to see the place full today. Really enjoyed the full house....let's pray we are building momentum and it continues!
Spoke about Maturity today. I know I haven't always acted in mature ways. It's a subject we all need to hear from time to time.
We are going to study the book of James topically over the next few months. Next week we are talking about learning to grow through our struggles and problems. You won't want to miss this one I can tell you that much! I have a secret up my sleeve :)
Did have issues with sound today...by the time I figured out what the problem was it was too late to fix it....UGH!
Still can't believe I went to sleep on my U of M team last night. I gave up on them before the game was over...I really missed the come back!
Back to the games...I am out!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-09-04T16:31:00.002-04:00

So, it's Sunday and that can only mean one thing. It's time for another mind dump:

Great message today, Craig really hit it out of the park. Now I am praying your few weeks away brings clarity of calling and vision.
Next week we are kicking off the back to basics series. I will be teaching through the Book of James and talking about a host of different subjects. The premise of the series is this. God saves us and molds us to be like Jesus...so then what should our lives look like if we are growing in his sons image? Granted we'll never cover it all, but we'll try and hit a few things as reminders...it's all about the basics :)
Have some cool things planned at church. We are starting our first Sunday school class in a month, led by Dennis and Lisa Sharninghouse.
Going to be having a Fish Fry at the lighthouse in Oct...so much for that message on Gluttony Craig!
Planning a fall fest at Kala's place for the last weekend in OCT.
I love having to pull out extra chairs and tables....feels great doing that...let's keep that trend up!!!
Going to be working on some things that will make us more productive as a church...hopefully people notice the difference!
I am outta here...I think that's all I have for now!

The Relationship Tornado

2011-09-03T20:43:00.003-04:00

I write off and on for a local newspaper (Pathways Christian Paper) that is published by some friends of ours. Tonight I wrote this article after praying for the last few weeks and seeing the pain of a friend and her family.

Affair: The Relationship Tornado

One of my favorite lines in a song is “I followed my heart, but it lies! It lies!” Over the last few weeks I’ve been praying for someone in our church who’s spouse had an affair. Affairs are like family tornados. They destroy everything, hurting the innocent, and leaving the landscape looking completely different.

In virtually every case, the spouse that enters into the affair doesn’t set out to destroy their family it just sort of happens. People allow a look to become a flirt, and a flirt to become a conversation, and a conversation to become a connection, that connection becomes a tangled web that is virtually impossible to break free from without destroying a family, and quite often more than one family. I’ve seen so much devastation over the years come from good people who made a choice to entertain the company of someone other than their spouse. It never ends well.

Pastor Rick Warren has a saying “the grass is greenest over the septic tank for a reason”. Sometimes, we forget that what looks good from a distance really smells pretty bad if you spend enough time lying in it. Don’t follow your heart, or giddy school boy or girl crush. Follow God and his word, our hearts will lie, he never will.

Just some thoughts

2011-09-02T20:34:00.002-04:00

So I am sitting home this Friday evening and pondering a few thoughts...

A few weeks ago I was approached by someone (with a good heart and positive motives) asking why we don't have a more formal program to go after people who have left or are on the verge of leaving the church. This person rattled off a few names of people that are no longer at our church. It's a good question and I've been tempted to think, OK...they're right, we need a program to make sure we aren't letting people slip away. Tonight, I am questioning why would we do that? Now hear me out on this...If the people in the church know someone hasn't come to church in a while...why are the people in the church not calling on them and checking up with them? IF I were away from church for a while I would much rather a friend called me to check up than someone who did it because it was their job to do it. Not that the church shouldn't call on people that they haven't seen in a while...I am just not sure a church should have a "program" for it...my mind isn't made up on this, just saying I am questioning it.
I've been praying quite a bit about some directional things at 242. Excited about some things that I believe God has in store for us. Looking forward to the next six months as a church. I think we could see some big things happen. Not because we are doing anything special but because he is going to do something special. I am praying for God to move and for us to see some amazing things that defy explanation and can only be described as a miracle of God.
I am really looking forward to getting back to teaching at church. I have a few months worth of messages ready to go (for the most part.)

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-08-28T13:53:00.003-04:00

It's Sunday let's dump!

Enjoyed playing music this morning. Not something we can do on a regular basis anymore but it's fun now and then! It was tough with the power point issues and something happened to our floor monitors and we couldn't hear what we were playing or singing but it's all good!
Got some tech things to work on, we have to get better at getting the power point in line before Sunday morning...
Great message this morning Craig!
I was amazed at the size of the crowd today...nice to see some old faces for the first time in a while.
Lot's of people at church with heavy hearts and a lot of junk in their lives this week. Just praying you guys can lay it all at Jesus feet and trust him with it.
It's been a very trying couple of weeks at the Renner household. From the break in, to getting our kids off to college, to April starting law school, it's taken a toll on us. I am ready for things to be back to normal. Not quite ready for students tomorrow but they are coming anyway so....
I've got the next few months worth of messages planned out....we are starting a series I am calling "Back to Basics." We are going to look at some things James has to say about our lives...Should be fun and very practical for all of us!
Still praying the building comes through for us. We are $500 a month apart from what we think we can afford and what they would like to get. Praying they come our way a little and our giving is a little stronger over the next few months so we can maybe go their way a little...
I better quit writing or I am going to start rambling on and on!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-08-21T15:57:00.002-04:00

It's amazing how being gone from church jest a few weeks can feel like a lifetime! We were gone for two weeks and going back into church today I felt like it had been much, much longer.

So, let's dump:

Cori told me she is out of town next week so you are stuck with April and I leading worship. Good thing Jake had a couple of my guitars at his house while we were away or that wouldn't be possible right now!
I've been working hard on some teaching and we are going to start off my teaching with a series I am calling Back To Basics. As part of that series we are going to look at some of the fundamentals of the Christian life. We'll start off with taking a look at what does it look like when a person is "Mature."
Reminded this week that it doesn't matter who you are you cannot take your eyes off Jesus without consequence.
We should have some clarity on the building situation over the next few days. Praying that it works out. Getting in there would go a long way towards putting us in position for growth.
Took an hour nap this afternoon. That NEVER happens!
April hasn't even started classes yet (they start tomorrow) and we added up that she has studied 55 hours this week just to be ready for the first week of law school. It's going to be a long 3 years!
It's official. I have made the switch from PC to MAC....LOVING IT!
Friday I get the honor of dropping both of my kids off in college....let's hope they both stay there!

Simple is Best

2011-08-17T09:28:00.002-04:00

So, I've been praying for the last month about what we need to be focusing on at 242 in order for the church to progress forward and here is what I believe God is saying to us. We need to be the simple church that we were created to be. We shouldn't worry about trying to have a program for everything, rather we should focus on doing just a few things really well. Having said that, I feel that over the next six months to a year we need to focus our energies on three things:

Creating the best Sunday morning worship experience possible: Simply put we need to get much better at doing Sunday mornings. We need better systems, structures, and organizations in place so we are better prepared to meet the needs of people on Sunday mornings. This means focusing on a few key ministries and building them up....Things like our children's ministry, greeting visitors, kitchen services, and designing better worship services. Most people's initial point of contact with the church is through our Sunday morning worship experience, so we should put more thought, energy, and prayer into planning services.
Building a better sense of Community: We need to find ways to help people connect with one another. Small groups, meals, fellowship, all those things need to be built up so we are in a better position to meet the needs of those God brings across our path.
Becoming a church of prayer and expectation: My heartfelt desire is that 242 church would become a praying church and a church that shows up with the expectation that God is going to do something awesome! That starts with being a praying church. When God is doing amazing things at the church it creates a sense of excitement and people want to be a part of a church that is exciting!

Over the next few months I'll be sharing my heart about how we can do these things within the context of Acts 2:42...

Sunday Mind Dump (Saturday Edition)

2011-08-13T08:54:00.001-04:00

While we are not yet back from our vacation we are sitting in the airport on our way home. It's been a great week over all. The trip started out a little rough but got better once we got on the boat. We enjoyed three really nice ports this time:

Key West: Always nice and plenty of things to see and do. It's a bit too congested for my tastes but it's still a cool place to visit.
Grand Cayman: Very nice, very British. Slow paced and pretty...enjoyed swimming with dolphins and then getting on a boat to go out to Stingray City...a nice sandbar where there are tons of stingrays that love to be played with and fed....needless to say, this was April's favorite part.
Ocho Rios Jamaica: Jamaica is very beautiful. We swam with and fed sharks....I know, I thought the idea was crazy too but it was fun anyway.
The Boat: Awesome....loved the food (especially the Indian place for lunch! April and I loved the giant Seaside movie theater and watched movies under the stars almost nightly after dinner....

One of the things I love about unplugging from the grid is having some extra quiet time to just hear from God about some things. Sometimes it's about church and what do do next...this time it was about me. God was showing me there are some areas of my life I need to develop some discipline in...Going to start working on that as soon as we get home....Perhaps I'll write about this a little more over the next week or so...

Life

2011-08-03T17:02:00.002-04:00

This fall my life takes a change. My youngest is off to college...for April and I we are officially "Empty Nester's" whatever that means...I will say that life has taken it's twists and turns over the years and if you'd asked me 30 years ago if I would be here I would've looked at you like you were crazy. I wouldn't trade it for the world though.

Life has been much harder than I could have ever imagined when I was young whipper snapper. It seems like time goes so slow when you're young and so fast when you get older. Enjoy things while they last...Jake and I went out and played golf today...nothing special just a nice round of golf between a Dad and his son...I wish we had more of those days...Make no mistake, I am happy he's off to college, one day that kid could do some really special things...he's crazy talented. But, I will miss the little things....But then again, it really is the little things that make life fun isn't it :)

Enjoy it while it lasts....

My Current Playlist

2011-07-28T15:03:00.003-04:00

So, anyone that knows me knows I love music. I have it blasting on my computer all day long or I am playing my guitars and rocking out to it. So, here is what is currently lighting up my playlist.

Needtobreathe - The Outsiders....LOVE their sound. Unlike anything else out there now.
Hillsong Live - God is Able....nothing like Hillsong when it comes to rocking out worship.
Darius Rucker - Charleston SC, 1968...Look I know it's Hootie....but the dude can flat out rock a country song!
Keith Urban - Get Closer....who doesn't like Keith...I wish I could play guitar half as good as him....
Karosene Halo - Really love the stripped down versions of some cover songs. Very well done...Love Derri's voice.
Lee McDermentt - I have never heard a hymn redone as well as his updated version of Go Tell It....I so want to do this song like this!

Anyone have anything else I need to be listening to? Let me know!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-07-24T16:01:00.003-04:00

So, I am sure this was a tough Sunday for many at 242 to hear that Craig was stepping down from pastoral leadership at 242. I can assure you that he has given this months of thought and he's wrestled with this decision for some time. As I mentioned today, if you aren't sure of your calling pastoral ministry will eat a person alive. It shouldn't be that way but it just is....ministry is difficult on the best of us and if you're unsure of your calling, well I am not sure how you do it.....

So let's dump:

I'm flattered to be a part of the discussion about the future of 242 Church. While, I have said I would take on the role of pastoring the church on a part-time basis I want everyone to know they are free to choose to go in a different direction if they feel that's where the church needs to go.
We mentioned this morning how having the pastor go part-time will allow the church to bring on a couple of other part time staff persons. Here is what we are thinking.
First, a part time administrative assistant/congregational care director. This person would handle all the churches phone calls, paperwork, finances, in addition to taking care of hospital and shut in visits. It would allow us to have one person we can call for almost everything...which is something that we just don't have now.
It will also allow us to hire a part-time Children/Youth Pastor. Right now the most pressing need is finding someone to run the Sunday morning kids program, but we also have a host of kids going into JR and SR high school that need to be taken care of. Till now, we just haven't had the resources to do it. Bringing someone in will go a long way toward making that happen this fall.
As always, people can email anyone on the Commission about what's going on and with any questions you might have. Feel free to email me about this stuff as well :)
The vote will be held in two weeks be sure to have all your questions addressed before that time...not that we won't answer questions after the vote! Ha Ha!

I better get off this computer. I smell brownies!!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-07-18T00:13:00.002-04:00

So, I got a little busy today and this is my extremely early version of a Monday morning mind dump. Let's just say I can't sleep tonight so I got out of bed and figured "what else is there to do but write?"

So let's dump!

Heard some of my sons bands songs today. Very good stuff, they are in the studio three more days this week putting the finishing touches on them. Proud of the boy. He really works hard at his craft.
I watched the World Cup today. Never again...Soccer is still the most boring sport in history....I would rather go to an opera than watch soccer....at least at the opera you know when the fat lady sings it's over....soccer never ends.
On a more personal and serious note, God has been stirring some things up inside me lately...which is good and bad....that usually translates into a message or two at some point :)
Nice day at church today...enjoying being back at 242....looking forward to fall when everyone is back most every week...
Only 3 weeks left till vacation....bring it on!
Making some decisions. Always leads to counting the cost....still excited about the possibilities...
Time to head to bed....peace out everyone!

Should the church accountant be the one called the "worship pastor"?

2011-07-13T21:45:00.005-04:00

I follow a pastor online by the name of Dan Kimball (www.dankimball.com) and he wrote the blog post listed below. One great thought provoking question that we in the church need to wrestle with. I know it's such a sensitive topic but it really pokes and prods our hearts at the same time....you can read the entire post here or click on the title below to read it on his web site...enjoy :)

Should the church accountant be the one called the "worship pastor"?

The title of this blog and question that I ask is not one I am totally serious about - but I do have the question of how we have overwhelmingly defined "worship" to primarily be music and singing.

I have become very aware of the power of words—and the power of defining words. In the Christian culture we have created I don't believe we can ever assume anymore when we say the terms "gospel", "Jesus", "salvation", "inspired", "evangelical", "evangelism", "missional" etc. we all mean the same thing. I have learned (and sometimes the hard way) that you need to be asking definitions of terms with specific meaning to understand how someone else uses a term that may differ from your definition.

One of these terms is "worship".

If you were to ask most teenagers and young adults what comes to their minds when they hear the word "worship" it will likely be singing. I understand why they do, as we have pretty much defined worship to them over the past 20 years or more as worship = singing. Now it is totally true that we worship as we sing. But that is only one aspect of worship. We have subtly taught (in my opinion) a reductionist view of worship limiting it primarily to music and singing as what defines the word and practice.

I try to pay attention to reasons why we define worship mainly as music these days. And it is not too difficult to discover. What do we call the person in a church who leads the band or singing? It is normally the "worship pastor" or "worship leader". When our music leaders say, "Let's now worship," that is when the singing begins. When a sermon begins or when the offering is received we often don't say ""Let's now worship" like we do when the singing starts. When we think of Sunday gatherings of the church and when does worship happen, we generally think of the singing - not the teaching or the sacrifice of people who are worshiping by volunteering time in the children's ministry or other things happening. You look the Christian albums and as we call them "Best of Worship" or "Worship Greatest Hits" that reinforce the idea that music is the primary—or even only—form of worship. I just read on a Facebook post how a group was bringing in a guest person to "lead worship" and of course this guest person was a musician.We constantly, constantly reinforce by how we use that word casually all the time that it primarily means music and singing.

I recently attended a college-age gathering, and after the time of musical worship ended (I personally try to always say "musical worship" ), the person up front who announced that the offering would be taken referred to it as a time of sacrifice as we give our finances as an act of worship. The word sacrifice really stood out to me as being defined with worship.

I also fully am aware that there are times when "worship" occurred without any actual physical sacrifice. but when you study the whole of the Bible, you will see that worship so often involved the sacrifice of something. Romans 12:1-2, after the first 11 chapters teach on the act of Jesus and His sacrifice for us, tells us to "offer our bodies as living sacrifices." This kind of sacrifice includes all areas of our lives, and it is costly. We choose to refrain from something we may otherwise want to but is could be sin, so we sacrifice aligning ourselves our ways to God's ways. The Old Testament was filled with times of coming to worship and sacrificing something. Generally something that was costly with animals or grains.

What is intriguing is that as we primarily define worship as singing, in terms of sacrifice - singing doesn't cost us too much. We mentally and emotionally bring ascent to our thoughts as we sing and focus on God. But we aren't really sacrificing something. Are we? Maybe I am wrong and would love to hear other thoughts. But it is pretty easy to come into a room and sit and then "worship" by singing (which is worship). I am super glad in our church we have worship times of singing. So I am not saying at all that I don't thoroughly believe we worship in major ways as we sing. But what I am saying is that worship through singing doesn't involve much sacrifice or cost us. It is probably one of the least sacrificial ways we do worship. Worship it is of course when we sing. But I can't say it is too much sacrificial worship.

As you look at sacrificial worship, in today's world what are the two most sacrificial things that do cost us something as we worship? It seems to be our time and most of all, our finances.

At the college-age gathering I attended, I watched the bags being passed around for the offering, and maybe one out of every 20 people put anything at all in the offering bags. I fully understand that people give online, and people may give bi-weekly or monthly, so this isn't an accurate representation of how much actually was given that morning. Still, this interesting to watch response to the request for financial sacrifice served to illustrate how easy it is for us to worship God when all that is required is singing a few songs, and how difficult it is for us to worship God by giving financially or giving up some of our precious time.

In hyperbole way, I have been thinking about why we use the title of "worship pastor" or "worship leader" to designate the person who leads an area of worship that doesn't cost us to much to participate in with our singing songs. So why don't we switch the title to the person who does lead or oversee the area that people generally sacrifice the most - is finances - so shouldn't the title of "worship pastor" or "worship leader" be the person who oversees the finances of the church? Usually the church accountant. Isn't that person the one who truly oversees the most sacrificial worship of the people of the church, not the person who leads the music when people sing?

Now in our church, we don't do this. Our bookkeeper is called the bookkeeper. It would be confusing calling the accountant the "worship leader". We actually try not to use too many titles for people and on our bulletin we don't even distinguish between paid staff and key volunteer leaders in our church leading major areas of ministry.

But I am curious about whether anyone also has thought of this? Whether we unintentionally have reduced the power and true meaning of the word worship by generally assigning the title to the person who leads the music? Have we incorrectly and unintentionally taught youth, young adults to think of worship primarily as singing by how we title roles and use the term? Try listening in your church gatherings to how the word is used during the gathering. I know in our church we try our best to always say what aspect of worship we are doing. "Let's now worship God as we sing" "We are now receiving our sacrificial worship of giving finances" etc. Even on our actual offering envelope it says "Sacrificial Worship" instead of just giving or offering. Try paying attention to how you generally see the word "worship" used in the Christian world in general. It is fascinating. Words matter. Definitions matter.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-07-10T21:35:00.002-04:00

This has been a long and very trying week. I haven't been sleeping well, couple that with the class I have been taking and that has made for one cranky Jeffrey...I am thankful that April has been understanding of the pressure I was under this last week and gave me enough space to work things out.....so let's dump:

Hard talk this morning on how to handle things when friends let us down. I gave a few examples of times in my life when I've been hurt by others. I could have given a host more...which leads to my closing point. If you are going to do anything in ministry, pain is just a part of that.
We talked about needing to pray that God would give us thicker skin and a softer heart at the same time. It's not easy but we all need growth in those areas.
Some big decisions to make this week. Would appreciate everyone's prayers for April and I.
Going to be planning a fish fry for sometime over the next few months. Gary Nissley has offered up enough Walleye and Perch to feed a little over 100 people. If you'd like to help us plan this thing let me know! I always love it when I can give people the basic ideas and let them run wild with it!
April has only 3 weeks left at work! She is scared and excited at the same time!
Praying and seeking....Praying and seeking.
Reminded again this morning about how we need to get out of the Lighthouse! If you know of a place that we can meet let me know....we need a room that can hold 75-100 people plus 3-4 classrooms. Would prefer to have a church meeting location that is on a main road where we can get some signage on the street.....we don't ask for much do we?
Well I better get outta here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-07-03T15:51:00.002-04:00

What a great day at church. I have to say I was expecting almost no one to be there today. After all, it's a holiday three day weekend and we knew we had a lot of people out of town. I was wrong about that, we were full and had to get some extra tables and chairs out to make room for everyone....Now that is what I am talking about! So let's dump:

So this morning we talked about truth. Learning to accept the show up with the truth in our lives and face reality. Not an easy message when you start talking about looking at our own sin.
Great to see Cori stepping up and leading more from the keys....nice job with the communion meditation!
With all the extra help we were set up in like 20 minutes today. I didn't know what to do, so I found a quiet spot and prayed. In fact, everyone is welcome to join me between 9:25-9:30 and we'll pray for our church, the service, our members, and the community before each service.
Spoke to several new people who talked about how much they've enjoyed the church and the messages. That's nice to hear. Hopefully, we keep seeing growth!
Next weekend Craig is taking a group over to serve breakfast at the City Mission before church. Let me know if you want a chance to help cook and serve, we'll get you in the right place at the right time!
On a personal note, I haven't been sleeping good at all! I run in cycles where I just cannot sleep....would appreciate your prayers to get through this season of it.
Not sure what I am teaching on next week...Time to start thinking about that....I am outta here!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-06-26T16:34:00.002-04:00

I really haven't done any true Sunday Mind Dumps in a while, I figured I was due!

Really nice to be back at 242 again and had a blast teaching. Some messages are just not fun to teach but this mornings was a joy. Love hearing people say God meant that for them because they really needed to hear it. For those that needed it, I hope and pray it's more than just something you hear, now live it!
While I was planning on teaching this morning we were not planning on leading worship. Man, my fingers are seriously not in guitar playing shape right now. Do you have any idea how bad they hurt today? I know, you're thinking...what a baby! But hey, my fingers hurt!
Loved the cafe style seating at the lighthouse. Really helps with the vastness of the space. I know that is a tad weird for some (OK, everyone used to sitting in rows!) but it does make the place feel way more intimate.
Thank you to everyone who came in early to help us get the place set up. You guys are awesome!
Had some really nice conversations after church. I know some people just needed to get some things off their chests and I am glad I was able to be there to help with that :)
Lot's of work to do in the coming months at the church....here's just a sample
Plan a couple of projects to build on the rummage sales success and finish off raising the rest of the $$ for the matching grant (one of them WILL be a fish fry...)
Work on getting more people connected to each other.
I could go on....but, I think I would bore everyone!

242 I'm Back

2011-06-20T21:37:00.003-04:00

Well it's official, April and I are going to be back at 242 full-time. A month or so ago Craig asked if 'd be willing to come back and help him and the church out as an Administrative Pastor. After a little prayer and talking things over with April we've agreed that it was a door that God was opening and a need that needed filled so we've said yes and will be back starting next weekend. I'll be helping out with project management, handling a lot of the churches communication and web presence, a host of other things I can work on from home, and handling some of the Sunday morning teaching duties. So, you'll just have to get used to more of my crazy stories.

I had been thinking it was time to take a season off from ministry and help April as she gets started in Law School. But, since the vast majority of the work involved is from home, over the computer, and over the phone it's a perfect fit allowing me to serve as God wired me and allowing April to focus on school.

Looking forward to seeing everyone soon :)

Graduation

2011-06-03T22:41:00.002-04:00

So, tomorrow we'll head over to the Stanahan for my boy's graduation ceremony. Now, I have to admit, there have been plenty of times over the last four years I wondered if this day would come. Jake is brilliant when it comes to music but just never cared to put much into his school work if it wasn't something that interested him. Music has always been his thing, I wish I had half the talent the boy has when it comes to music...

Jake's got a couple of months to enjoy being a graduate then it's off to college. Let's hope and pray that his love and interest in music moves him through the college ranks and into the work world as a producer....

I'm Still Here...

2011-05-21T19:36:00.005-04:00

So, the rapture of the church that was supposed to happen today has failed to materialize. I have restrained myself from the poking and picking that I have seen so many on the web do over the last few days. Don't get me wrong, a large part of me wanted to make fun of the notion just to make myself seem "not crazy" to my non-believing friends. I never for a second believed today was the day, not that it couldn't have been, because that's up to God. In fact, I hadn't really given the whole "rapture is May 21st" much thought at all until two days ago. That's when it hit me.....what if it is???

Now, I don't want to sound crazy because I didn't believe it was the day at all....but I just felt this overwhelming burden that said what if it is? Over the last two days, I felt the Holy Spirit begin to lay on my heart the faces and names of all the people I know that haven't yet met Jesus. Honestly, I've felt an overwhelming sense of sadness for them. What if it was today? How many family members would have missed out? How many of my friends would have missed out? What about my students? My children? I mean they accepted Christ when they were younger but are they really his?

I can say this, I don't want to make fun of the crazies that predicted the end of the world as we know it. I do however, want to use their foolish mistakes as a reminder that sometime, someday he'll come and until that day I want to reach as many people with God's love as possible. I want to be about my fathers business.

Without Him I can do nothing....with Him all things are possible.

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-05-02T10:05:00.002-04:00

Still nothing to blog about ministry wise so I am going to take a minute to talk about a great message in church yesterday. The church we've been hanging out at had a missionary from Poland in and he gave a killer message. It was all about not being afraid to go after what God is calling you to go after. One of his points was "If you're waiting for perfect conditions before you act, you'll be dead before you act." How true!

God calls us to do things in his time and for his purpose. We move based on that and not our ideal circumstances. How fitting. Whether the move is personal as in I need to do something or corporate meaning the church needs to do something....we move when he calls us, not when we're ready.

So let's dump about this principle a little:

Maybe God is calling you to step up into a ministry role and you are waiting for somethinto happen first....stop waiting and do it.
Maybe God is calling you to change careers, stop waiting for the perfect situation and do it.
Perhaps God is calling your church to take new ground but your afraid finances are going to hold you back....take a step of faith and do what he's calling you to do and trust he'll provide.
Maybe you've had a longing to start a family but you're waiting for the perfect job first, or building up more money...you'll never have enough of it...so just do it.

I could go on and on but the point is still the same....whatever it is step out in faith and go for it!

I'm getting there.

2011-04-30T12:28:00.002-04:00

So, I have been taking classes over the last year to complete my Ed.S. degree. It looks like I'll be done in the fall! I couldn't be happier, these classes are really starting to cut into my lying around time!

Ok, all jokes aside, the classes have been a little rougher this semester. I just seem to have no motivation to write or work on them. Perhaps I'll feel more like it in the summer but who knows....at least for now it's good to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'll have 3 classes and an internship that consists of me writing a handbook for professional development this summer. Then 2 classes in the fall and my merry go round of classes should be over. I think I am done now....I am not doing anything else...and YOU CAN"T MAKE ME! LOL.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-04-24T20:17:00.002-04:00

Now that I am back on a ministry break I don't have much ministry wise to blog about personally so I am going to take this opportunity to cheer for others in the trenches. This morning was the official launch of 242. What a big day for them...so let's dump about that:

242 has been up and running a little under a year. It launched this morning. Simply awesome!
Over the last year, they've lost a pastor and yet God provided.
They are running well ahead of the average in terms of attendance and giving in the midst of a sluggish economy. God provides.
The new pastor has become a friend of mine and I call it a privilege to be able to coach him and work behind the scenes helping the church in whatever way God allows.
Even though we are not at 242 every week anymore I am still praying for you guys regularly.
They are doing a killer job of getting people connected in meaningful ministry positions and the church really looks great on Sunday mornings.
Loved seeing new faces this morning. For those who haven't been a part of a church plant before understand it takes time, lots of time, to grow a church. It's not normal to grow rapidly, in fact, most churches couldn't handle it anyway....you grow slow and steady....with some spurts in there for good measure.
Loved seeing the kids ministry taking steps forward. Looking really good!
Stay humble and listening to God and good things are going to happen @ 242!

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-04-18T08:28:00.002-04:00

April and I went to SC for a friends wedding this past weekend. What a long trip! It was a nice wedding and we're glad we we able to get away for a few days to be there to celebrate with my friend Tiff!

So let's dump!

Since we were in SC over the weekend we took the opportunity to visit Newspring Church (Perry Noble's Church.) Here are a few things I learned from going there.
Hands down the best worship team I have ever seen or heard. They sounded incredible. It was amazing to hear them completely rocking out and yet seeing 2500 people worshiping along with them. Loved it!
Getting into and out of Newspring isn't easy. So many people coming and going its like being at an amusement park at opening time. Anyway, its a chore. It demonstrates that when a church has momentum and God is moving in a place people will do whatever they have to do to get theirs butts in a seat.
Literally every seat was taken and they had ushers helping squeeze people into any open seats. How many churches have that problem?
Perry breaks the mold when it comes to preaching. Yesterdays message ran about 45 minutes. Everything I've read says a pastor should speak no more than 30 minutes. If you're good, all the rules can go bye bye.
Enjoyed our visit. But, glad to be home!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-04-10T17:35:00.002-04:00

So, I don't have any church related stuff for a mind dump this week but I can talk about my weekend....so let's dump about that:

Busy weekend!
I got my butt kicked on the tennis court yesterday. I served really well but I couldn't seem to do much else right. At least I got a good workout in!
We went to Huntington to visit Chelsea after tennis. Long day! But it's always nice to go hang out with your college aged daughter for the afternoon :)
Didn't go to church at all this weekend. We were so tired after yesterday we slept in a little and when I got up I worked on writing a paper that was due today. Got it done in a few hours.
Our dinner consisted of Baskin Robbins tonight....guess who thought that one up?
Spent the day watching the masters. Almost felt sorry for the kid who imploded after leading for 3 days....almost....he's only 21.
Next weekend we are going to be out and about and we are going to go visit Perry Noble's church....that should be fun!
Well...April is telling me I need a shower again....geeeesh!

Light Bulb - It's not too late...

2011-04-05T08:54:00.002-04:00

This week I finally got around to watching the movie Despicable Me. It was a good movie and I loved it when Gru had some big realization he said "Light Bulb" out loud. Then they showed us the vision Gru had in his mind. Very cute!

I couldn't sleep last night and for some reason I got up around midnight to use the rest room and the word Light Bulb came to mind and I realized that this week marks the 11 year anniversary of my Dad's death. Seems like every year around this time I end up taking stock of the loss and God reveals some new truth to me. Last night, as I was unable to sleep, I think he did it again so I'll share it with everyone here.

My Dad wasn't around much when we were kids. He worked for the Railroad and as such he was on the road for half the week and when he was home he was often catching up on rest. He was always at our ball games and taking us places when he could. I would say he was a good Dad but honestly we weren't all that close. Something happened as I got older. He stopped working on the railroad and did some other things for work. He and my Mom divorced.

For my Dad, the life in his 40's was a tough go. In many ways it seemed like many things were going wrong...failed marriages, ministries not living up to expectations, loss, heartache, and much more. For him it was a tough time. For me those years were actually good. You see, Dad when everything else was falling apart actually became much closer with his children. I was in my 20's and Dad would still call every couple of days just to see if all was well. As a result my Dad moved from being a Dad to being a Dad who was also a friend. It was through that changing relationship our relationship actually grew very close.

Last night that was my Light Bulb moment. This morning it continues...we do that same thing with God. We are so busy with life many of us don't make time for those we love (God) until we get to the point were things start to fall apart for us....it's at that time we make time for the relationships that matter. I hope and pray I am making the right time now for both my kids and my God.

Reflections

2011-04-02T20:41:00.002-04:00

Just sitting at home and thinking about some things I've learned over the last few years:

Most churches have the same problems. Those problems all stem from the same place...sin in our lives...good leaders find God inspired ways to overcome them. They help people move beyond the stronghold of sin in their lives, others can't seem to move people past them....thinking about some of the issues we had at RL and seeing many of those same issues being played out at various other churches over the last few years gives me a perspective I wish I had 5 years ago. When God provides the next opportunity for me to take on pastoral ministry in a church, I think I'll be better prepared for that...and no I don't want to give examples :)
Thinking about the concept of being a missional person and being a part of a missional church. WE SAY we are missional, yet we have the hardest time releasing people into their missions. Most of us in ministry don't equip as well as we should, we don't recognize God's calling on others enough, and we don't tell people when it's time for them to leave our church and pursue what God is calling them to next. Got to see an example of that tonight and it reminded me again how we don't do that nearly enough. We build people up to serve under us, but what if God is calling them to do more than we are doing or are able to do?
Reminded again this week how difficult the job of a lead pastor is. Everyone has an idea of how things should be done and they are certain their idea is God inspired and correct. We can't all be right now can we? If your idea is right don't badger your pastor, threaten your pastor, or try and shame him into doing what you think is right. Talk with him about it. If he doesn't agree with you pray about the situation and try and see things from his perspective. If he still doesn't agree with you and you are unsettled submit yourself to him and his decision about it. If you still can't get peace about it, perhaps God is stirring something up in you and it's not really about the church as a whole. Consider the possibility that God is calling you, and not your church, to do something.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-03-27T16:05:00.003-04:00

Well...we finished up strong at Central Park Congregational Church. This morning we talked about the difference between religion and having a relationship with God. We talked about how religion brings people into bondage but the relationship we have with Jesus brings freedom. One of my favorites I must say. It never get's old talking on that subject.

So, Let's dump:

As of now April and I are without a church home or anything to do. Feels odd...
Praying that CPCC embraces Steve and Tamara and they are able to move the church in a direction that God dictates.
A great bunch of folks at CPCC. Honestly a nice group of people.
We are going to continue to take some time and just wait on God....as I mentioned before, we think we've got a place we want to hang out at while we are taking a pause from ministry. We've been there a couple times already and it feels nice.
Got tons to do this week and I am really looking forward to spring break. A few days with nothing going on to just clear the mind will do me wonders!
Thinking PF Changs sounds really tasty tonight....I'm not going there...it just sounds good :)
Jake got to fill in at a church in PB today and it looks like he's going to be filling in one more Sunday next month. That's cool for him as he's been wanting to play at church for some time....plus he got to help out Aaron Hammitt and that isn't all bad....if you are in looking for a church in Perrysburg consider Grace United Methodist :)
Well I better call it a day....April wants the computer.

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-03-21T10:33:00.003-04:00

I was a little slack yesterday and didn't write my normal mind dump until this morning...Looks like everything was ok anyway :)

So, let's dump:

April and I didn't do any church related work last weekend. That's the first time in a long time. I almost didn't know what to do with myself, almost.
We did spend a lot of time with our kids this weekend and took them to a local church on Saturday night, sleeping in on Sunday. How nice was that, very nice!
This is my last week filling in at Central Park. It's bittersweet. I enjoy the teaching and the people there...But still feel like God is asking April and I to take a break from formal ministry. She's going to have so much on her plate in just a few months I just want to give her some space to unwind (well, as best as she can anyway!) and rest up so she is ready to go in August. Law school is going to be almost all consuming for her....she needs a rest.
We've sorta found a church we think we might want to hang out at, we'll see if we still feel that way in a month or so. It's just big enough we can hide a little but not so big you can't get to know people.
I will say, spending so much time in ministry over the years has made me way more critical of how others do ministry, and that's not healthy...from music to teaching it just seems like I am internally critiquing others rather than enjoying what God is doing through their church/ministry....that attitude has got to go.
Thinking quite a bit about the controversy over Rob Bells book Love Wins. I'll admit, I haven't read it and probably won't but have we as a church gotten to the point where we can't question the things we've been taught and honestly say "I've got questions" without being labeled a heretic? Admittedly, I do not subscribe to his theological assumptions, but still do we have grace enough to allow him to sort this out? I'm not going to call him a heretic for the questions...I would not have him speak for me, or attend his church....but still, do we have grace enough to allow him to question? I'm not sure we do...
I better get to my lunch....those kids will be back in here soon enough.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-03-13T16:45:00.002-04:00

It's been a long day. I am not sure why but the time change thing in the spring just kicks my butt. I never sleep well the night of the time change and last night was no exception. Only got a few hours in and I feel like I've been hit by a truck!

So let's dump:

Taught today about the cost of being a disciple. Being a cultural Christian is easy, being sold out is much harder and comes at a cost.
We are not going to be at CPCC next week. One more week at that church then we are going to take a step back and just wait on God.
My daughter is home from college this week. Always nice to have my little girl around.
Went to Compelled church again last night. We enjoyed ourselves. Not sure if it's going to be the place we choose to hang out at for the next year or so, but it's a nice place.
Praying for 242 and their needs. Finding the right worship leader isn't easy for anyone, it's even harder for a new church in a small town.
Looking forward to spring break. April and I are going to a friends wedding in SC. Warmth and sun...can I get an amen for that?
Doing a little tutoring after school for the remainder of the year...
Jake has my drums. Looking forward to getting those back so I can pound and thrash a little this summer. Soon as the weather breaks and he can play his in his garage...
Well...I am out for the night...

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-03-06T19:19:00.002-05:00

April and I have had a semi hectic weekend. It was all decent until yesterday evening when we noticed water starting to creep up through a drain in our garage. Needless to say she started freaking out...so after a call to Roto Router, a 5 hour wait, and $124 our problem is fixed. God blessed us and we didn't have any damage other than a little water on the floor of the garage but we were close to it getting in the house, another hour or so and we'd have been getting wet!

So let's dump:

Really had fun speaking at Central Park today. We talked about the importance of being planted in a church. I can't stress enough how big a deal it is...get planted and connect with others...God created us to be relational....why would you want to fight him over it? He made us that way...I am just reminding you :)
Looking forward to hearing from God about whatever he's going to lead us into next. Believe it or not, the last year has been great for April and I, and I for one am excited. I have zero clue what that's going to be, I just want to be there for the ride.
Looking forward to being able to visit some friends at their churches while we are waiting on God. I LOVE getting out there and seeing God at work in other churches. It gives you a much bigger picture of him when you can do that. Sometimes we tunnel vision when we've been in one church for a long time. It's not a bad thing to be in a single church for a long time (that's a good thing!) It's just that sometimes we need to see how God works in other churches...
Getting excited about tennis coming up in a month or so. I am so out of shape it's not even funny....who would joke about that anyway! LOL!
April and I are going to be in South Carolina for a few days in April. We're going to swing by Perry Noble's church for a service. Been wanting to do that for some time...
What are we supposed to do on Sunday's without football? I seriously get bored...I get a nap and all, but there really needs to be something on in the spring!
Someone needs to show up at my house with a carrot cake. April doesn't like it so I never get one.....I miss carrot cake.
I am out of here....she says I need a shower....I think perhaps she has a negative perspective tonight :)

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-02-27T13:47:00.002-05:00

I took last weekend off from doing a Sunday Mind Dump so here are my thoughts for this week:

Enjoyed teaching today. When I am away from it for long I forget how much I enjoy it. I'll enjoy it while it lasts and we'll see where God takes us from here.
Went to visit another church here in town last night. They did an hour and a half worship service. What a treat to just spend that extra time singing...April and I were both horse from it!
Enjoyed the Snow days this week. I think that's about over and it'll be back to the grind until summer gets here. Only 3 short months until I am home free for a little while. Of course, I am taking 12 more credit hours this summer to finish up my Ed.S degree, which should be completed in the fall.
Enjoying some reading right now. I run in spurts where I read heavy and spurts where I don't...not sure why that is?
April and I are leaning toward taking the remainder of our year long sabbatical after we are done at Central Park. I need some time to get away and just listen to God's voice again. I do love teaching and ministry, but both of us need that....unless he steers us otherwise, that's most likely where we'll be.
I am out for the day....enjoy your day!

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-02-14T19:29:00.002-05:00

So, two weeks in a row doing the Sunday Mind Dump on Monday...It can only mean one thing. I've been busy! So let's dump:

An interesting first day at Central Park in Toledo. Still not sure if it's the right place for April and I long term but glad God has given us the opportunity to step in and provide some help for them over the next few months.
We sang a couple of songs with just April and I on the guitar. Very nice and loved hearing people passionately singing with us. Very cool!
After church we had lunch with an old friend (we'll o.k., not a friend who is old per se! But a good friend!) It was nice to catch up and hang out for a few hours.
John and Shelley came to Central Park Sunday...since they are two of my favorite people in the world that was awesome to see!
After church and lunch we went over to my old HS and watched Bree Lauer to her drumline thing. Very cool and a great job to all the kids in the drumline!
A few things I am chewing on this week: Why is it that spouses see things so differently? Still pondering how and why God placed us with people that are so different that us guys? (No there aren't any marital problems! Just me thinking out loud)
Why do we allow the way we worship in church define us? Traditional people hate modern worship...people that do modern worship can't stand traditional worship....I mean I have my preferences, but does it really matter since we worship in spirit and not by the actual style of worship? To me it's a cultural thing and not a worship thing.....we take that cultural thing and turn it into a war..It's a war that's gone on in churches for years and if we stayed at Central Park it's likely a battle that would be fought again....just questions I am pondering.
I guess it's time to end this rant and move on to something more productive.
Night all.

Sunday Mind Dump (Monday Edition)

2011-02-07T16:51:00.003-05:00

So normally I write my Sunday mind dumps on Sunday but yesterday was a bit longer than most days and I didn't have the energy to write it until Monday. Hopefully, the extra day makes me smarter or more witty or something :) So, let's dump:

Our last day at 242 church. What started as a short three month help get a new church off the ground commitment turned into much more when we lost a good friend and pastor. I am very grateful to everyone at 242 you guys were and are awesome to April and I. You've got a great pastor in place now and I look forward to helping coach him through the church planting process!
I am looking forward to seeing what God does at 242 church. You've got a great foundation laid and you just need to build upon that. The momentum at the church is real and tangible...Don't mess with momentum!
Next week, and for the next few months, we'll be at Central Park church in Sylvania. Still not sure if it's were God is calling us to be long term but I know that God put some things in place for us to go there and help out. We'll be praying about the long term, all while enjoying serving him there over the short term.
Took Jake to HU for his music scholarship audition today. That kid has so much talent it makes me sick! He completely rocked the audition piece he had to play and the professors seems genuinely impressed with him....now to see if they offer him some scholarship money or not....that is the question.
Been praying about how to deal with some potential situations and ironically right after The Superbowl last night I think I got an answer. I actually put the scenario before my boy just to see what he thought about it and even he liked the idea...so maybe it's a God thing after all.
Slept like doo doo last night....just one of those nights where I was so tired, yet completely wired and could not shut my brain off for sleep. I get that way from time to time. Let's hope tonight is better.
Now that April is accepted to law school in the fall we are trying to get some additional things in order so we can afford to live on just one salary. By this summer we'll finally have the rest of Real Life's bills paid off (Thank You God!) and we are hoping we can be down to just our house payment by then. That will make April quitting her job to go to school full time much easier on us.
For the first time in a long time I am really excited about what God is doing in our lives. He's brought us through so much, there's been pain, tears, joy, friendships lost, and friendships gained and it's all brought something to us. God is amazing like that....His promise really is true that he will use all things for Good if we seek him.
I better get started on dinner. My bride tends to be a hungry little woman when she comes home from work! See Y'all late....

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-01-30T15:47:00.002-05:00

Had a fun time at church today! Next week will be a little bittersweet for us no doubt. We really do enjoy 242 and what God is doing there is awesome! Not sure right now where the future leads. God could lead us to stay at the church we'll be helping out at, or to some other church, or he could very well bring us right back to 242 after a few months of helping out and getting the new church back on track. Well this is a mind dump, so let's dump:

Played tennis way to aggressively yesterday and threw out my back. To say my back is stiff right now would be an understatement....
Loving watch Craig grow into the pastor I know he can be. So cool to see God using him at 242. We have some big things in store for the church I can promise you that!
I love my Taylor guitar. Just saying I love it....
Still trying to work out the sound at the Lighthouse...we found they have a back speaker cable and that is causing the sound to go in and out.
Superbowl parties next weekend...If you need someplace to go let me know and I'll get you the address of 242's!
Went to see Aprils uncle after church today. He's down to just a few days left in this life. Hard to see that happen, but we rest knowing God loves us more than we could ever know even when we don't understand things.

I think it's time for a nap!

Leaders Vs Posers

2011-01-29T11:30:00.002-05:00

Just sitting home this morning prepping chili for the cook off and thinking about some leadership lessons I have learned over the years. Just my observations, feel free to take them or leave them :)

1. Leaders: Run to the problem, the look at all the sides of an issue and then come up with a way to fix the problem. Posers: Ignore the problem hoping it will go away, out of sight, out of mind.

2. Leaders: Are not afraid to ask for help: Leaders want to learn more, if there is something they don't understand they look for people who can help and learn from them. Posers: Think they have all the answers.

3. Leaders: Seek out coaching help from people who have been there before. Posers: Are lone rangers afraid to expose themselves to other leaders, often they are afraid their weaknesses will show and make them look bad (see #2.)

4. Leaders: Understand they have weaknesses and bring in people who have complimentary talents and gifts. Posers: Bring in yes men (or women) who's purpose is to prop them up.

5. Leaders: Are teachers. They equip people and then turn them loose to do what they do best. Posers: Lord over their people afraid to empower them to make decisions.

Over the years, like many others I've been both a leader and a poser. The older I get the more I realize it's not about me and my talents its about bringing out the best in others. The best leaders are coaches who teach their team well then turn them loose. I want to be the best coach I can be.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-01-23T15:29:00.003-05:00

It's Sunday and that can only mean one thing...It's time for another mind dump!

So let's get going with that:

Things are going great at 242. Craig is doing ton's of things and connecting behind the scenes and that is going to pay big dividends in the near future.
Some technical issues this morning we are going to have to work through. Just bought a new video switch to help with one of them.
Loved reworking the Song "Fairest Lord Jesus." the way it came out was a little dark and I just loved it.
Made the announcement today that April and I are going to be stepping away from 242 after Feb 6th so that we can help another church without a pastor out for a few months. We'll be at Central Park Congregational in Sylvania after that date. We're not sure it's the right thing for us permanently but feel like we need to go and help them get moving in the right direction.
I am writing a once a month devotional for a new Christian newspaper. Check out www.pathwaycn.com if you'd like to read the paper and or my articles in it.
April got admitted to Law School this week. Hurray for her! It's going to mean some major sacrifices for us for a few years but it's something that's been a long time coming for her. She's excited and a little scared about it too!
Enjoying some football today so I am going to get off this Crazy computer and watch it!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-01-16T17:43:00.002-05:00

What a great day at 242 church! The calling of a new pastor, the passing of the baton, a new day has indeed begun. Yet, I am sure for some it's a bittersweet day. People loved Scott and loosing him so young, so sudden is still a fresh wound. It was and is an honor to have been able to step in for him over the last few months.

So let's dump:

Talked about the differences between a slave and a son today. I am glad I am one and not the other that's for sure.
Not our best day musically, yet God was praised and the kingdom moved forward.
Looking forward to having time to work on some other church related things.
Enjoying the playoffs...too bad none of my teams are in them this year.
Great food today at the pot luck. If there is one thing April loves....It's a church pot luck.
Hoping to get a snow day sometime...
I am out of here...I need to get some dinner!

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-01-09T14:32:00.002-05:00

The time is getting short at 242. Craig and Melissa Rogghe will be with us next week and we'll be anointing them as the pastors of the church next week! That's a big thing for us and them. Looking forward to the new perspectives, energy, and connections Craig will bring to the church.

So let's dump:

Great day of worship today. It's amazing what difference a week makes.
Felt much more at home speaking today than last week. Some messages are harder than others and today's was an easy one.
Great seeing all the new faces at church. How fun!
April is all excited about the Chili and Soup Cook-Off coming up in a few weeks. I have to say, for a skinny woman....she sure loves her food!
Great seeing so many new people step up and help out a church. It's getting to where I don't have to do much of anything in the set up process anymore....Thanks to all who help with that!
Something about the song "And That My Soul Knows Very Well" that just resonates with me. It was the perfect ending for our worship experience today too.
Bree is doing a killer job playing the Cajon. Next week, we'll get to see Tyler give it a shot. What a big day for him!
My bass amp is on the fritz...ugh....now I have to find someone to fix that :(
Enjoying playoff football....so many surprises this year.
Classes start again tomorrow. Not sure what that will bring me, but I can say I am getting closer to being done with the program.
I am outta here.

Sunday Mind Dump

2011-01-02T15:23:00.002-05:00

Well, it's the end of yet another Christmas break season. It seems like we've been busier than ever and like every break, I end it feeling like I need a few more days off. The problem for me is that if I had a few more days off I'd still want a few more days off so alas, it's back to the grind tomorrow.

So let's dump:

We talked about addictions and getting free from them today. It's a passion of mine, yet I never felt like I hit my stride teaching today. You have days like that and you just have to leave it up to God trusting you did your part.
Talking about losing some emotional luggage next week. I am pumped about that.
Spent a lot of time over the holiday's with friends and family. Loved that. Great fun!
Started a let's get Jeff to loose 50 lbs plan last week. I am down 7lbs so far. Course, the first 10 are always the easiest.
Only 1 more weekend until Craig comes on staff at church. Looking forward to that.
In many ways I've tried to avoid leading the church and have been more trying to just keep the church from moving backward. That's tough for me, but it was the right thing to do and I am looking forward to being able to gain some ground again.
Music was just OK today. Not much energy in the place or from us. We'll have to work on that!
I am going to start writing a monthly devotional for a local Christian newspaper. You can find the paper at this address: www.pathwaycn.com.blog if you want to check it out.
Enjoying football this afternoon. Think I'll go enjoy more of it :)

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-12-12T19:41:00.002-05:00

Just finished up a teaching series called "Be The Church." It was something we just plain needed to do. As we are in the infancy of 242 church we have to remind ourselves that we are to be about our Fathers business and he is in the business of people. That means if we want to be the church and not just do church we should be:

Loving the unlovely.
Spending time with those far from God.
Fishing for men (and women.)
And spending our lives connected to each other.

Those are tall tasks I know but Acts 2:42-47 is the handbook for how to grow a church. The question remains....will we become an Acts 242 church?

So let's dump:

Loved, loved, loved doing the brunch potluck last week and not "doing church." In many ways, we had more church that day than we do every other Sunday with a message and music!
Only a month until Pastor Craig comes on full-time. I've been talking to him on a regular basis and he is happy as a clam about it. God is going to do some good things though him.
Next week April and I will be away. Enjoy the Christmas music and Jenn. I am sure she is going to do a great job telling the Christmas story. Truth be told, I am terrible with anything remotely traditional!! People will probably be much happier with her telling the story :)
After Christmas we are going to start a one month series I am calling "Lost Luggage." It's the final series I am teaching before Craig comes on and takes over as the primary teacher.
We just announced our Chili Cook Off/Soup Cook off this morning. It's set up for Jan 29th and should be a hoot. Details will follow.
Looking forward to unplugging for a few days over the holidays. April and I have had a rough month and getting away will do us some good!
All my NFL teams won today. That doesn't happen often. Now if my fantasy teams would start playing to their potential!
One more week of school. Enough said.
I am out!

The Power of a Connection

2010-12-02T07:45:00.002-05:00

Just read some statistics that blow me away. If a first time visitor get's connected (makes some friends and is offered a meaningful place to serve) said visitor is 5 times more likely to stay at your church. I guess this fly's in the face of allowing first time visitors anonymity.

So, somehow churches need to find a balance and a way to allow people freedom to explore the church while at some point in the exploration meeting up with people that can befriend them.

Guilty As Charged

2010-12-01T09:15:00.002-05:00

Doing some reading this morning and as God so often does he showed me how wrong I and perhaps to a larger extent the church as a whole has been. I have made plans, hosted events, and tried to grow a few churches by focusing on young families. In fact, if we are being honest that's what most churches focus on when they are trying to grow. Young families seem to be like the trophy of all (ok, at least most) churches these days. Yet as I read James 2 this morning, I had an overwhelming sense of conviction that I have been guilty of playing favorites with God's people.

Check this out:

James (NLT)2: 1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? 2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. 3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? 5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? 6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? 7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble namet you bear?

Dang that hits me hard.

I have often said as a prayer to God "Lord, give us the people no one else want's." Yet, my and our actions corporately as a church have been geared around reaching the group that every church wants, young families. I am not sure where I go with this, but it is giving me plenty of uneasiness as a pastor and church leader. How can I manage to have my actions, and our churches actions live up to the words of James? Right now, I just don't know. But I can tell you this stings a little.

Thanksgiving Mind Dump

2010-11-24T20:30:00.003-05:00

I have never been one to follow tradition. I am not sure why but I am just not sentimental like that. I do however find myself this Thanksgiving reflecting on how much I have grown over this last year and how for the first time in the last few years I feel like God is stirring something up in me. I am not sure what it is yet, I just feel like something big is about to happen and that is an awesome feeling.

So in light of that lets dump:

So thankful for God and all he's done for me.
Thankful for my family. They've seen the good and the bad and they still act like they know me and that's awful nice of them!
Thankful for God's second chances. In life, in ministry, and in love.
Thankful God doesn't treat us like we treat his children.
Thankful I am going to get away with my bride for a week in a few weeks. Sun, good food, and relaxation is much needed right about now.
Thankful that God has provided for us. Times are tough for many and we've been blessed far beyond what we deserve.
Thankful for life and health. So many I know have lost theirs too soon.
Thankful God allows me to work in ministry. It's truly an honor. I don't ever want to take it for granted or think that somehow I am good enough. It's only by his power and hand I can do what I am called to do.
Thankful for good friends who pray for me way more than I seem to pray for them.
Thankful God has allowed my Grandfather a little more time.

I could go on all night....

My Facebook Fast

2010-11-19T20:39:00.002-05:00

Thinking I might be taking a month long fast from Facebook in December. I need to spend some extra time thinking and praying about some ministry related things and playing on Facebook just seems to take up so much idle time...I do enjoy having a place to goof around and stay in touch with all my friends from this stage of my life and other stages of my life but I need a break from it all for a while.

Dec 1st-Dec 31st...

Sowing Seeds....Good Post by Rick Warren

2010-11-18T21:51:00.003-05:00

I get a great devotional delivered to my email daily from Rick Warren. This was today's....loved the post so I thought I'd share it with everyone who stumbles upon my blog.....enjoy :)

Giving is Spiritual Investment, not Expense
by Rick Warren

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV)

"No farmer considers sowing seeds an expense. He sees it as an investment."

God often compares giving to sowing seeds. Like a farmer, if you go out and sow a bunch of seeds, you'll get a bunch of plants. If you only sow a few seeds, you'll only get a few plants. And if you sow no seeds, you'll get no plants.

No farmer considers sowing seeds an expense. He sees it as an investment. He knows that if you don't buy seed, you won't have a farm.

When a farmer plants seeds, he's excited about it; he's hopeful about it. He has faith because he puts one corn seed in the ground and expects to get a whole corn stalk full of more seed than he put in. He looks forward to the harvest because he knows he's going to be blessed.

Here are three things the Bible says about sowing and reaping:

Whatever you sow, you are going to reap. If you sow criticism, people are going to criticize you. If you sow gossip, people are going to gossip about you. Whatever you sow in life, you are going to reap it back. Count on it.

The good news is, this works in positive terms too. Give it to God and watch his blessings flow onto others and back to you.

You will reap more than you sow every time. A farmer who plants one kernel in the ground will get a stalk with eight or nine ears that have 100 to 200 corn kernels each.

You always reap in a different season than you sowed. You sow in one season and then you reap the benefit in another season. You can go plant a seed today, dig it up tomorrow, and there will be no difference. But if you let it settle, slowly it will grow and produce. That's the faith portion of the waiting period in God's economy.

How big a harvest do you want to see in your life? It's up to you. God says, "According to your faith will it be done to you" (Matthew 9:29 NIV).

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-11-14T15:58:00.002-05:00

I haven't written much in my blog over the last month or so for several reasons. We've just been busy and something has to give. I haven't had as much to say as in the past because I am trying to step back and just let God do his thing and talk about that rather than me trying to make things happen. Lastly, because I am trying to allow others to build the church and not so much me. I am a short timer at 242 and while I want to give it my all during my tenure, I am stepping back come January and April and I will be stepping away from all ministry at some point this spring or summer. So let's dump:

Since Closing Real Life I have had 5-6 offers to pastor churches...one more over the last few weeks. I don't know what God has in store for me, but I do know if I have a say in the matter We'll be taking more time off from ministry after we finish our tenure at 242. If God has other plan's so be it, we'll obey, but if you ask me :)
So much fun today watching the kids sing and tell stories. I love family worship experience days!
It was even more fun having the kids play instruments this time! Great job Bree, Tyler, and Tyler!!
Looking forward to the Christmas season. April and I have a get away scheduled. It might be our last one for a few years if some things happen we've been talking about. (stay tuned) and no, it's not a baby.
Helped Jake fill out his first college application today. We'll see....We'll see.
I am pumped about next weekends kick off of out new teaching series I am calling "Be The Church!)

Better get back to football!

Tuesday Mind Dump

2010-10-20T14:02:00.002-04:00

Really digging a couple of new CD's Third Day's new CD "Move" and Lincoln Brewster's new CD "Real Life." Awesome music
Looking forward to Friday night. We're having friends over for dinner and conversation. We don't do that often enough...this should be fun.
Good music set list for this weekend. Should be a great time.
Looking forward to the next steps God has for me. Been really moving me in certain directions. Looking forward to acting on it when the time is right.
Hoping April's car is out of the body shop this week. I cannot stand driving that little rental car....
Been in a zone preaching the last few weeks. Hope that continues after my week off. Got some good stuff coming up too.

Reflection(s)

2010-10-16T19:13:00.002-04:00

What a difference a year makes. It just hit me that it was a year ago that we were entering our last week at Real Life. I was spent spiritually, emotionally, and physically spent. As sad as it was to close RL, I don't know how much longer I could have gone on even if we had been more solvent. We took six months and didn't do much of anything church related. We visited around and got to worship with friends that we'd been meaning to catch up with but nothing in terms of playing, teaching, leading, serving. It was a really much needed respite.

Last spring we offered to help a friend that was planting a church in the Findlay area. Originally, we were going to come and help out for the summer. The summer gradually turned into we'll stay till launch next Easter. God has a purpose and a plan in everything. Last month our friend passed away. He was only 54 and had a massive heart attack. While it's been tough for everyone, it's pretty obvious that God called us to 242 Church to help. God knew what was going to happen and he knew he needed us there. We are not called to be at 242 long term. God also had a plan and a man that he wanted to lead that church. Next week we'll get to hear from him (Craig.) We'll pray that his calling to 242 is confirmed by everyone at church.

It's been a weird year. When we closed RL I said that I was done in ministry. I meant it, I really wanted nothing to do with it anymore. I was tired of friends who loved me to my face, but spoke ill of my behind my back. I was tired of the attacks on my family. I was just plain tired. I've often said that I love God but struggled to love his people. If you've ever been in ministry, perhaps you can relate. I told God that if ever wanted me back in ministry that he'd have to come get me because I would not be looking for ministry work.

I believe God has a funny streak about him. We went to 242 just to help out with worship and I was going to coach Scott a little behind the scenes and then we'd walk away. Here I am leading a church again (although just short term.) Over the last 6 months, I have had 6 people call, email, and take me out for coffee asking if I'd be interested in helping out or taking a ministry position with their church. Small group pastor, teaching pastor, lead pastor, worship....all kinds of ministry opportunities. One very large church, and some mid to smaller sized churches...Till now, I have turned them all down and really without much thought or even prayer.....Finally, last week. I said OK God I GET IT.....You want me in ministry.

I know what my calling is. I have for a long time. When the right offer comes along. I will do it....until then I'll follow where he leads. Sometimes, I forget that my life isn't my own. In order to have a life I have to be willing to give it away. If it means taking the kind of crap (yes I just said crap) that comes with ministry I will learn to endure. I am learning that the Apostle Paul said when he said "For me to live is Christ."

You Might Be A Pharisee If....

2010-10-12T17:15:00.005-04:00

I stumbled upon this post here. Very good post...I could add a whole bunch more to it....but still really good!

Get your best Jeff Foxworthy voice on as you read....

You might be a Pharisee if:

You see church as all about ministering to you and your personal needs.
You don’t really think you need grace – after all, you’re doing pretty good at this Christian thing.
You judge others by their actions, but are offended when people fail to judge you by your intentions.
You don’t really feel called to minister to “those” people.You sure wish ole Jimbo or Earnestine had been here to hear this today – because God knows she sure does need to hear it.
You rush to judgment and meting out punishment first without ever considering the possibility of mercy when you hear of someone else’s failure.
You’re consumed with splinters and haven’t dealt with personal logs.
You actually acknowledge that you have sin, but know it’s nowhere near what other people are doing.
God will take care of “those people.” You just worry about ministering to me and my family and keeping us happy pastor.
Phariseeism is a virus – contagious – the only way to treat it, to wash regularly with the water of the Word and apply grace generously.

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-10-10T15:44:00.002-04:00

Had a great time teaching today. Last summer I was working around the house and God gave me a message about healing our hurts. I thought "Ok, but when in the world am I supposed to teach that message God?" God knew. I am so honored that God allows me to do what I do. When we came to 242 it was supposed to be short term, just long enough to help Scott get the ministry off the ground and stable. I am glad we followed the leading of the Holy Spirit in bringing us there. It won't be forever. But, still glad to have been a part. So let's dump:

Some highlights from the message. You don't have enough emotional energy to worry about getting even with people. Let God balance the books.
Forgiving others isn't about them deserving it. It's about you being able to move on with your life....and because God forgives you and I.
Fill your mind up with Jesus and you won't have time to worry about getting even with people.
You'll know you're healed when your ready to start helping others overcome. That's how God makes good use for our pain....when you use it to serve.
Sunday's are long days for us....we leave the house at 7am and don't usually get home until after 1. When our time is up at 242 we are going to take another ministry sabbatical for a few months and recharge our batteries.
Really looking forward to our cruise this December. Getting away for a week is going to be so sweet!
So many people hurting. So few willing to do what it takes to get well. It's not easy....but there is great freedom in it.
My past is not my future. God is going to do a new thing in my life....
I am out....peace everyone.....time to veg out and watch some foosball!

What am I Praying For?

2010-10-09T19:26:00.003-04:00

I often wonder how many Christians go through life not really knowing what they should be praying for. Do we pray for ourselves is that too selfish? Do we only pray for those we love, but not us? Or do we pray for everything and everyone? Well...I am by no means an expert on prayer so I will just tell you what I pray for nightly.

I pray that God would bless and protect my family.
I pray that God would bless and protect my friends.
I pray for my church and my pastor (although that's me right now...so feel free to pray for me!)
I pray for those I know who are enduring trials and suffering.
I pray for anything else that God lays on my heart.

I think for most of us, if we could just start with those things....we'd be getting somewhere...I know you'd think people in ministry would be much deeper than that....but I have to confess...I have never been much of a prayer warrior....For years I felt bad about that....but a few years ago, I just felt God release me from feeling bad about something that wasn't my spiritual gift. All of us can and should pray regularly....but not all of us are going to be the kind of prayer warriors that can spend hours and hours praying down heaven and earth.....just pray and listen....be obedient to what God is leading you to become as a pray-er!

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-10-04T09:29:00.002-04:00

Seeming like these mind dumps are morphing into Monday morning mind dumps more and more. Course it is football season.....So let's dump:

Great day at 242 yesterday. Loved the talk by Jenn Ditmeyer.
Jenn brought up some great points and ideas for the church. She did a fabulous job talking about needing to raise the funds to pay for a full time pastor. We have a tremendous opportunity with some matching funds. We've got the guy picked out we think is the next person to lead the church....the next step is God providing the resources through his people.
Loved hearing Jake play the cajon yesterday. Sounded so cool.
Speaking of music, it seems like over the last month or so we've hit our stride in terms of song selection and style and we are starting to see much more responsiveness with the congregation.
Looking forward to the next few months. I love putting things together and that's what we are going to be working on. The kids ministry is coming along nicely, worship is moving forward, we are going to be moving some other area's forward as well. We'll talk about those in the coming weeks.
It's been nice to be back teaching again. I hadn't done it (teaching of Sunday's) for a year and after this run is over April and I are going to take another small ministry sabbatical and figure out what our next steps are going to be. Right now we are not sure when that's going be...It could be as soon as January or as late as next summer. It all depends on the leader we are bringing in and what his needs and desires are.
I've had 4-5 offers for ministry related work since coming along side 242 last spring. We've turned them all down knowing that God had called us to use what we'd learned about church planting to help get 242 off the ground. We'll see how God leads over the next year or so in that respect. One thing is clearer than ever, April and I have a much better perspective on what God is calling us to do with our lives.

God Doesn't Want to See Your But...

2010-09-28T08:07:00.004-04:00

Once and a while Perry Noble writes something in his blog that just needs to be share word for word......the following is one of those posts....love it!!

Taken from www.perrynoble.com

God doesn’t want to see your “but!”

Your “but” is nasty…it is gross…it should be covered up and never shown…

Yet so often times we want to “moon God” and show Him our “but” when God’s Word is declared…

“I know I need to plant a church…”BUT” I don’t have enough money.”
“I know I need to take that step of faith…”BUT” I don’t know how things will turn out.”
“I know I need to admit that I am struggling with sin…”BUT” I am afraid of what people will think of me.”
“I know I need to share Christ with my friend…”BUT” they may label me and I may lose a friend.”
“I know I need to put Jesus first in my finances…”BUT” I don’t think I can afford to.”
“I know I need to end this dating relationship…”BUT” if I do then I may be single for the rest of my life.”
“I know that God wants me to fight FOR my marriage…”BUT” the easiest thing to do is walk away and start over.”
“I know the decision I need to make…”BUT” if I do what I know I need to do it is going to cause me to have to embrace the unknown.”

See what I mean…we always want God to see our “BUT!”…and yet He isn’t interested…because…

He sent Jesus to the earth for your “BUT!”

Jesus died on the cross for your “BUT!”

Jesus rose from the grave for your “BUT!”

And Jesus reigns OVER YOUR “BUT!”

So stop telling Him about your “BUT” – get off of your “BUT” and get on with what He has said to get on with!!!

No one ever accomplished anything great for God by showing Him their “BUT!”

He is able to handle your “BUT!”

So do whatever He’s telling you to do…and stop worrying about your “BUT!”

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-09-19T16:24:00.002-04:00

Just a great day at 242. I just know that people needed the message today.

So, let's dump:

Spoke about loss and grieving loss today. We never loose the scars but God does heal us. Time doesn't heal anything...The holy spirit does.
It was and is an honor to step in for my friend Scott. We'll miss him dearly.
Would encourage everyone to pray for the leadership at 242 as they are trying to hear from God about the long term direction of the church. I love being there but April and I don't feel like God is calling us to be at 242 permanently. We believe God sent us there to help build up the ministry and we'll be there as long as that takes.
In the mean time, I'll be filling in as the pastor and making sure the church and kingdom is moving forward.
Good things are in the works.

Legalism Raises it's Ugly Head Again

2010-09-09T15:25:00.003-04:00

It's pretty regular that I hear about people struggling with Christianity and I completely get it. Today was no exception. The problem most people have isn't with Jesus....People like Jesus. He loved people, spent his time with the sick and outcasts, challenged the hypocrisy in the church. The problem most people have is with those in the church.

If you could take the majority of the complaints and put them into a single one it's this. Many churches have a legalistic air about them. Sometimes that comes off as hypocrisy....but at it's heart it's legalism. Here is my definition of legalism...When we believe there is something we can DO to please God....You have to understand for many people there is a goodness that seems right to men....and then there is a goodness that seems right to God....and they are usually very different things....Believing in the goodness that seems right to men is what leads to legalism and the very thing that moves people farther from God and his church.

Here's how legalism in churches works. People in their attempt to please God will adopt standards that God never intended for us to have. For example: They wrongly believe bringing your best to God means getting up extra early on Sunday and putting on your best suit. Or, they might believe that when God says not to defile your body he's talking about not getting piercings or a tattoo. Or, maybe they believe that not drinking alcohol is they way they are going to get closer to God.....all of these things are man's way of trying to please God and to be honest they are a waist of time and energy.

God looks at the inside of us...he looks at our hearts. Jesus gave us two commands that we were and are to follow...These measure the heart of a person and that is what God looks at. Jesus said in Luke 10:27 that we should "love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and then we should love our neighbors as ourselves." (Renner Paraphrase) Seems pretty simple and straightforward.

I am not sure why anyone or church would want to put any more standards on us than those....I am not sure in a lifetime we'd ever be able to truly measure up to that standard....which is why God loved us enough to accept us through his son anyway.

Understand this: There is nothing you can do to please God by looking a certain way, dressing a certain way, or acting a certain way....That stuff is shallow and temporary. God cares about what's on the inside of us.....he cares about the condition of our hearts....are we serving and loving him or ourselves....our we serving those in our lives or are we concerned with how many toys we can acquire? Don't allow legalism to raise it's ugly head in your life or in your church....it doesn't help anyone....

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-09-05T15:54:00.002-04:00

So many things going on in my mind and life it's hard to put them all into a single mind dump. I'll throw a few things out here and some I'll save for just me :)

So let's dump:

Seems like every Sunday there is something wrong. Some type of problem that wants to get itself in the way of what we are doing. For better or worse, it is probably just an attack that we need to fight back against.
Working on a few new musicians for church. Hopefully we can get them on stage next week. That would be cool!
God is putting a passion back in me for some things that hasn't been there in a long time. I am honestly afraid of what that means. Leading worship is easy. The other stuff is very difficult.
Took a 2 hour nap today. That has only happened a few times over the last few years. WOW!
Football season starts next weekend. Excited about that!

Better get off this computer.

Modern Worship

2010-09-04T06:33:00.006-04:00

Recently, we've endured some conflict over the notion of modern worship being performance based and more traditional worship being congregation centered. I certainly understand the discussion and the reasons behind it. Most traditional church music was written out of revelation with the church in mind. It was written for congregational singing. Modern worship shares some of those traits but it also ads the added element of commercial appeal. Many modern worship artists are very talented and have a commercial sound that is radio friendly.

The argument I think can best be understood and appreciated within the context of what God is doing in the midst of a generation of worshipers. In today's society, its acceptable for worship leaders to journal their personal experiences and quite often those experiences end up as songs that we sing today. Sometimes they are personal prayers that just can't be shaken. Sometimes the song stems from a message that stirs the heart of the worship leader. Sometimes the songs come from life in general and reflecting on God's goodness.

Is there a performance aspect of modern worship ABSOLUTELY. We cannot allow ourselves to be fooled into thinking there isn't. Totally removing the performance aspect of music would place us in the position of being ineffective because the music would be so bad it would actually become a turn off. We can move past the performance aspect of worship by having our hearts right during the week. Spending time in prayer, seeking God in humility, and listening to his voice. We can also eliminate some of the performance aspect of modern worship if we are well prepared. When you are so prepared you don't have to think about singing or playing your instrument you are free do what comes naturally and just worship God.

We wouldn't allow a pastor to come on stage and be a complete dud, have zero personality, and not be able to teach. Likewise, we shouldn't allow people to come on stage that God hasn't blessed to do music. With that comes a certain element of performance no doubt. But preparation and having a right heart can outweigh most of that. God has raised up some great worship leaders over the last 10 years that are not only incredible musicians but sold out to worshiping Him. Don't write that off because you see it as a performance. Think about the time and commitment to Christ these people make. Many of of the people volunteering their time to sing and play an instrument for God in our churches today could easily be making money playing and singing in clubs and bars on the weekends. Instead, they are using their talents for God. That's a great thing!

All music that is written with a humble heart and lifts up God honors him. I love having the freedom to express it. Makes me feel like writing some more songs!

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-08-30T06:53:00.002-04:00

It's been a personally and spiritually trying week to say the least. I am glad it's over and we can move on and start a new one. So let's dump:

Starting the process of building a band for 242 church. Getting some decent response and that is encouraging!
Going to be leading a small group this fall. It'll be nice to get back to teaching.
April has stepped her worship leading up big time. She's putting more time, energy, and prayer into it than ever before and you can see the results.
Looking forward to getting JT on the stage with us. Hopefully, that happens next week.
Slept like a baby last night. First night in a week that's happened. Sad I had to get up for work or I'd still be in there!
In fact, I better get moving and get dressed for work. It's coming whether I am ready or not!

Missing You Guys

2010-08-28T16:33:00.003-04:00

The last year has without a doubt been a year of ups and downs. There have been good times and rough ones as with any year. One of the many things I am personally grateful to God for is that sometimes he brings clarity in the midst of confusion. Last fall, we were put in the position of having to close Real Life. Some agreed it was time, others wanted to find a path to stay open. I understand that. The decision I made brought with it many things, the loss of friends that I once considered close, the continued and growing friendship of others. If I had to make the same choices today, I believe I would make the exact same decision.

The last year has been good for my soul. I've had a lot of time to reflect, and quite honestly, shed many tears. I've had sleepless nights, and nights that I've slept like a baby over things. One thing that keeps coming back to me from God and some other people that I know and trust has been them asking me if I felt regret over it and the answer is still no. I just had nothing left to give. Real Life had drained me. Most of that is MY OWN FAULT. I wanted to do more than we really needed to do. I thought doing it would help create an atmosphere where people would be more inclined to invite their friends. And perhaps to some extent that was and is true. But, at the end of the day, I only had so much emotional and spiritual energy, and quite frankly April and I about went broke financing the church and paying it's debts off.

Over the last year, here is what I have come to miss and wish I could have back. Real Life was the closest thing to true Biblical fellowship I have ever been a part of. We shared meals, we laughed and cried together. When one of us hurt, we all hurt. When someone needed help, there were more people than you'd ever need showing up to help, and without resorting to shaming people into helping. People came because they wanted to, they came because they loved each other, and more than that, they genuinely cared for one another.....I haven't seen that anywhere else yet, and if there is one thing I could put in a bottle and take with me everywhere and teach other churches how to do it I would in a second.

In that way, Real Life was and is the closest thing to authentic New Testament Christianity I have ever been a part of. So when I am asked if I have any regrets, honestly, the answer is no. Could we have made a few different decisions sure, who can't say that. I am proud to have been able to be used by God to put something like that together....I miss you guys.

We're All Overdressed

2010-08-24T10:17:00.003-04:00

I've been doing quite a bit of playing around on the internet lately before school starts again and came across a mainstream Christian band that has a new album coming out called "Over Dressed." The basic premise of the album "stems from “the idea that we’re overdressed as believers and in the church—it’s talking about sin, depravity, shame—that we’re not who we were intended to be” but tend to try to disguise it." Wow, what a beautiful word picture!

We put on fancy clothes, we speak so eloquently, we do so many things to provide the appearance that we have it all together, yet we are a sinful lot of people. We turn from God virtually every chance we get. It's almost as if we daily cheat on a very jealous mate. We act is if our unfaithfulness is going unnoticed. It's not.

God in his mercy, allows us to stumble, fall, and get back up again. My encouragement for today is in knowing I don't have to be overdressed to come to God's table. He takes me just as I am, with all my faults, all my problems, all my hang ups, and my infidelity to him. He doesn't say clean up first he simply says come.

I love that about God. He just says come. Don't worry about the way you're dressed just come. Try that at many churches in America today....We have a long way to go....Thankfully, we have a God who is long on mercy and short on judgment. I wish more of us could find our way to where God is....

Gate Keepers

2010-08-21T12:48:00.003-04:00

Every church has gate keepers. Gate keepers are those people that are hesitant to accept new people. Gate keepers are concerned with keeping the history and traditions of the church intact over reaching out to people and bringing them into genuine community. Gate keepers are more concerned with the things they value in a church than catching on to what the Holy Spirit is doing and following His lead. Gate keepers refer to classes of people in the church. Those people who have put their time in and those who haven't. Gate keepers are good people who can be harmful to a churches growth.

I was talking with a friend last night who has been going to this church for a year. She has offered to get involved and help out with things a few times and is feeling frustrated because she wants to be a part of the community but there are a few people that are keeping her at a distance. In this case the pastors have appointed a gate keeper as the leader of a ministry further illuminating the problem. The gate keeper will say things like: you've only been here for X amount of time right? Or, we at X church prefer things this way, or any other thing that shows you are an outsider.

Gate keepers can really hamper a churches and a persons growth. Churches grow by more and more people feeling welcome enough to invite their friends and families to church. People grow through their service to God. If you can identify gate keepers and get them out of the way you can expect their to be more growth. If people feel like their friends and family are going to be genuinely welcomed into a warm and loving community of faith they'll invite. If people feel that they aren't being welcomed with open arms into the community of faith not only will they not invite their friends and family, they won't be staying long.

Sound like anyone you know?

Back To School

2010-08-21T09:16:00.003-04:00

So, this is back to school week for me. While I love my work it always feels like I need another couple of weeks off work. I am not sure why that is but it just never feels like it's time to go back. It kinda makes me think that if the summer was extended and I had two more weeks off I'd still feel like I needed two more weeks at the end of the two more weeks.

Since I have to go back to school one thing is on the agenda today. Clothes shopping. I need some new work clothes...Yippee.

Successful Marriages III

2010-08-14T20:59:00.002-04:00

So, we've covered what a successful marriage should look like (a team,) we've talked about 10 things people do to destroy their marriages. Now I'd like to take that same list and talk about how we can turn the negatives into positives.

10. Invest all your time in activities that take you away from your family.

Solution: Realize that your life is no longer your own. First and foremost, it belongs to God. Second, You got married and had kids, that means sacrifice. Stop acting, thinking, and dreaming like your single. Find things you can do as a family. One day all your kids will be grown and you'll have plenty of time to fish, shop, and get mani-pedi's. Until then whenever you get to do these things it's a treat not a right....It's all about attitude. Your not entitled to anything, and neither am I.

9. Develop a circle of online friends that you keep hidden from your spouse.

Solution: If your spouse doesn't have access to your emails, facebook, or anything else online what are you trying to hide? April can, and usually does read, everything on my facebook or email accounts. I not only allow it, I welcome it. I don't want to hide anything. Your work accounts are different (don't get yourself fired or in legal trouble over this one) as long as you do not use them for personal stuff.

8. Bottle up all your emotions, thoughts, and feelings refusing to share them until the spouse guesses why you are ignoring them.

Solution: Be willing to talk about everything. Sex. Money. Dreams. Fears. Faith. Nothing is off limits. Just talk. Also, understand everyone is different and that's a good thing.

7. Spend time fantasizing about other people. Could be porn on the internet, Facebook, romance novels, etc.

Solution: The grass is the greenest where it's watered (if you live in the country it's the greenest over the septic tank....think about that one.) The other person you're dreaming about isn't better. If you'd put the amount of energy into your marriage as you're putting into the fantasy you'd be much better off.

6. Using rationale in your decisions. For example, He bought a new (whatever) so I am entitled to buy a new (whatever.)

Solution: Stop resorting to playground mentality. Just because someone (your spouse) made a selfish decision doesn't mean you should too. In fact, if you do, in the long run, you're going to be worse off for it. If you're reading this one and thinking about it, I can already tell you your finances are screwed up and you're in debt. If that's the case PLEASE break this rule once and go pick up a copy of Dave Ramseys book THE TOTAL MONEY MAKEOVER and do what it says.

5. Putting your spouse down as a way to make you feel better or look good. Could be in front of them or others. Either way, it's still wrong.

Solution: Vow that you'll never say anything negative about your spouse in front of anyone. If you have a problem with something your spouse is doing why are you not talking to them? Your girlfriend can't help them be a better person and neither can your mother. If you weren't doing something right would you want your business told all over town? Protect the mother or father of your kids reputation and talk to them about it and not everyone else.

4. Lying about places you've been, things you've done, or people you've seen.

Solution: First, tell the truth. Second, stop doing things you'll be ashamed of. Remember you belong to God first. Honor that.

3. Keeping a separate web presence that your spouse isn't allowed to see. Emails, face book, web pages, or whatever.

Solution: See number 9 :) It's also why April and I have a combined facebook page.

2. Expecting your spouse to meet your needs. Any needs.

Solution: Last time I checked the role of God was taken. Your spouse cannot meet your needs. They are a companion and a helper. If you're waiting for your spouse to meet your needs it will never happen.

1. Hiding finances.

Solution: See #6! Seriously, get on a budget. Find one both of you can live with and agree to hold each other accountable. Sit down at least once a week and account for where your money is going. If your not paying attention to your finances your not minding your family's business. On that note, allow each other the freedom to spend a little money on yourselves without guilt. April and I have a budget. We live by it. I also have a set amount of money each pay period that I take out in cash that is my personal spending allowance. I can do with it whatever I want no questions asked. I love it! It has saved us countless arguments. I do not spend more than that amount or I get very stern looks :)

Hope you have gotten something out of these posts.

Successful Marriages Part II

2010-08-13T08:15:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I wrote a post about successful marriages and what they look like. The key to a successful marriage is teamwork. Today, I am going to write the top ten things a person can do to sabotage their marriage by acting selfishly. This is by no means a scientific list, just some reflections of mine. Part III of this blog series will come tomorrow or the next day on the top ten things you can do to strengthen your marriage. I'll share the more healthy solutions to these issues...

Top Ten Things Selfish Things a Person Can Do to Sabotage Their Marriage.

10. Invest all your time in activities that take you away from your family.
9. Develop a circle of online friends that you keep hidden from your spouse.
8. Bottle up all your emotions, thoughts, and feelings refusing to share them until the spouse guesses why you are ignoring them.
7. Spend time fantasizing about other people. Could be porn on the internet, Facebook, romance novels, etc.
6. Using rationale in your decisions. For example, He bought a new (whatever) so I am entitled to buy a new (whatever.)
5. Putting your spouse down as a way to make you feel better or look good. Could be in front of them or others. Either way, it's still wrong.
4. Lying about places you've been, things you've done, or people you've seen.
3. Keeping a separate web presence that your spouse isn't allowed to see. Emails, face book, web pages, or whatever.
2. Expecting your spouse to meet your needs. Any needs.
1. Hiding finances.

These are in no particular order. Just observations. If you have something you'd like to add feel free to comment :)

Successful Marriages

2010-08-12T17:14:00.002-04:00

Driving back to our vacation rental after a fun day at a Disney water park I heard Dennis Rainey say something so profound in terms of marriage I thought it needed to be shared and expounded upon here. He said "if you are looking for a single trait that defines what a successful marriage is it's this. It looks like and acts like a team." Successful marriages are defined by whether or not both parties are working as a team. Dang. That is so simple, yet so profound.

So that begs the question: How can marriage be all about being a team? It's simple, yet very difficult. The only way a marriage can become about team is when the two people in the marriage learn to serve each other and make sure their needs are met before worrying about their own needs. Having said that, I understand how difficult that is. Everything in this world says it's all about me. But, the key to a successful marriage is putting the other person first and me second.

You might say, well I would do that, but you just don't understand how selfish my spouse is. All that they care about is them. If I did that I wouldn't have anything for me.....I hear what your saying, but the truth is, I have never seen a relationship where one person is selfish and the other one is selfless. Usually, both are pretty selfish in there own way. You might argue, I'll stop worrying about me, as soon as the other person stops doing "XYZ." I am hear to tell you, if that's what your waiting for it'll never happen.

Your job is to worry about your heart being in the right place, not about the other persons heart....In Matthew 20:28 Jesus said " For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." If Jesus came here to serve others what makes you think you can make things about you and find happiness in a marriage or anywhere else for that matter?

More on this topic later this week....

Family Time!

2010-08-07T14:16:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow morning we leave for Florida. It's our last "family vacation." Chelsea is 19 and Jake will be graduating next year and we've kinda made the decision that next year April and I will go alone and the kids can focus on work and school. It's a little bittersweet to say the least.

Being a divorced and remarried dad, we've always looked forward to our summer vacations because it was extended alone time with the kids. Over the years we've taken them to Montana, Colorado, California, Mexico (on a cruise) and Florida (3 times.) We've loved every minute of it....Sad to say this is the last year.

To all you parents of small kids who are frustrated. Hold on, it only lasts for a season. It just seemed like it was yesterday when my little one's were having an argument about whether airplanes take off (the girl)or blast off (the boy) (long story!) They grow so fast.....

George Carlin vs Jesus

2010-08-04T07:26:00.002-04:00

George Carlin was a brilliant comedian. He had great timing, intellect, and whit. He was a comedians comedian....people looked up to him. He once made the joke "Did you ever notice that it's mostly older people reading the Bible? He said, that puzzled me, then one day I realized the old people are going to die soon, they are studying for the final exam!"

While certainly funny, that statement bears no resemblance to the truth. The simple fact its, it really doesn't matter how much of the Bible a person knows. I've read the Bible cover to cover multiple times and there isn't a single reference to gaining a certain amount knowledge as the key to getting into heaven.

Jesus on the other hand says come to me. I'll make your burden lighter. Come to me, I'm all you need.

It's not, has never been, nor ever will be about how much you know. The Bible wasn't given to us to help us increase our knowledge. What matters is the condition of your heart. I'd much rather have that over cramming for an exam.....just sayin'

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-08-01T15:47:00.003-04:00

Almost time for vacation. Looking forward to our week in Florida with the kids. We rented a house and are mostly going to unplug and relax, with healthy doses of sun and swimming mixed in there. It's Sunday and that means a Sunday Mind Dump...so let's dump:

Reminded again this morning that nothing bad comes our way without God's hands in it and an opportunity for our growth. We can either learn from the struggles or not, but they're still coming.
The band played very well today in light of some really tough tech and sound issues. Those issues are part of what you deal with being a portable church. Glad everyone ignored them and had fun anyway. The flip side, now I have to go back and troubleshoot that soundboard this week!
Getting ready to read a book I have been wanting to read for some time called "Repenting of Religion." It's all about learning to love and move past judging others. No matter who you are judging others is a problem. Our job as Christians is to love, God judges. Case closed :)
Great job Scott Brewster. This message series is killer. You've got a lot of people talking....
Might be bringing an electric guitar out for worship soon. Gonna sit down and work some stuff out this week and see if I like what I hear!
Thinking a lot about my calling lately. Praying for wisdom about that.
Last week of classes. I am VERY happy about that....VERY happy.

I am outta here....need to spend some time with the wife.

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-07-26T14:17:00.003-04:00

This is the Monday afternoon version of the Sunday Mind Dump....so here goes:

God's really been dealing with me on some things lately. Most of them are personal and need not be mentioned, but know this. It doesn't matter who you are...your journey in growing in God never ends. As soon as you think you have a handle on something, He rocks your world with something new.
A decent day playing guitar yesterday. My memory has been not the best lately. If this keeps up I think I might get myself a music stand and some charts. I don't like making mistakes like forgetting words I should be singing.
242 is making some progress in terms of hammering down it's mission and values. That's a good and much needed thing. Looking forward to continuing working with Scott on building the ministry. Got a few thoughts about things we need to start planning for so we are ready for launching in the spring.
Vacation coming up. It'll be nice to spend a week with the family with no phones or jobs.
Looking forward to Tuesday night. April and I are going up to Detroit to see Hillsong Live. We haven't been to a concert in ages. I love Hillsong's music so this is going to be awesome.

I Understand

2010-07-21T14:56:00.002-04:00

Many people in the church just can't figure out why the rest of the world doesn't want anything to do with the church. You have to understand, it's not Jesus they dislike, it's most of us. People like Jesus, he modeled love, he modeled compassion. Jesus understood pain in a way we never will. It's not Jesus people don't like. It's you and it's me.

Why don't people like us? Look at your life. How are you living his love? How are you doing meeting people's needs? How are you loving people most of us wouldn't want to go near? My guess is most of us aren't. If you want proof of why people hate the church take the blinders off and try looking at a few of these things for starters:

What does your facebook page say about you? Are you spewing hate? Are you bad mouthing politicians and people you don't like? Or are you praying for them as the Bible commands.
Check your wallet. How much of your money is going to help those in need?
Check your time. How much time are you giving towards helping people?
Check your friends. When is the last time you had a friend who is hurting over for dinner and conversation with no strings attached?

I could go on. But each of us needs to take a hard look at our lives and ask ourselves if we are living out what we claim we believe. My guess is most of us aren't.

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-07-12T08:50:00.003-04:00

Great day of worship yesterday. The band was tight, the people sang along, God was blessed.
Looking forward to vacation in a few weeks with the family. I love getting away with the family.
I am teaching April to play bass. She's doing well!
Jake is really kicking butt on the drums.
Still praying about what's next for us in ministry terms. I think I have an idea, but usually when I do God rocks my world and something else happens. So we'll see :)
Loving my new Taylor guitar. Feels great playing it, and it sounds even better!
We've been broke all summer....That's right, it's college tuition time...Another $8000 bucks sent off to Huntington.
Table for 10 moves to our house this weekend. Looking forward to it.
Only 3 weeks of summer classes left. I am ready for that to be over with!

Summer

2010-07-07T16:52:00.002-04:00

This is the first summer in a few years that I have literally had nothing to do (except a couple of classes I am taking!) It's been nice in some ways. I am enjoying the lack of stress and full schedule. It also feels a little weird as I had been so busy for the last few years I just feel like I should be out doing something.

At some point, we'll most likely be back in full-time ministry and my quiet time will be over. Until then we are relaxing and enjoying it. We're enjoying giving back to God through leading worship at 242 Church and we'll see where God leads. April and I have some things to pray about in terms of where God wants us long term. It's been interesting, we've had a few offers to go back to working in ministry over the last few months, some have been tempting but we're just waiting on God.

Sunday Mind Dump

2010-06-21T08:23:00.002-04:00

Just thought I'd take a few minutes and dump about a few things:

Pray for your pastor. Seriously, they need it. I have several guys I have been praying for lately. They have a harder job than you will ever know. The pressures of leading a church can be tremendous.
April and I have been sick for a few days. Trying to figure out if it's something we ate or just a virus.
Enjoying my summer down time, although it will get busier as I am starting 2 classes next week.
Enjoying serving at 242 Church. It's a haul on Sunday mornings but we're enjoying it.
Enjoying playing music and leading worship again. Didn't know how long we'd be out of it in terms of not leading worship. Thankful for the chance to do it again.
Working on some ideas about how to truly do blended worship for a pretty conservative community of believers. It's not as easy as one would think, no matter what you do some one isn't going to like it.
Next week is Jake's first week drumming at the new church. We'll see how that goes. Up till now it's been just an acoustic guitar and a keyboard.
I am out!

Mind Dumps

2010-06-12T10:07:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't been as regular with mind dumps as in the past. I'm working on it...so here we go:

Things are going well at 242 Church. It is a struggle for April and I in terms of style as we are much more aggressive in worship and the people at 242 are a little more traditional. We are trying to approach the ministry with a missionary mindset and bring worship of God to them in a way that works for them, while still stretching them a little every week. So far so good....If they put up chicken wire, that'll be a sign we have pushed to far :)
Did some remodeling around the house. That was fun! I did better than I would have thought and will eventually do more!
I am taking 4 classes this summer. That's keeping me busy!
Loving my new guitar. I really like the Taylor feel and sound. It's killing my fingers getting them back into acoustic guitar shape after not playing for so long.
Looking forward to a weeks vacation in August. We rented a nice house in Fl with a swimming pool. The 4 of us are going to be relaxing big time.
I think I am going to take a few days next week and just do nothing. I need a few days of quiet time....just listening to God and not speaking much. We all need times of quiet. God speaks with a still small voice. It's hard to hear him over all the noise in our lives.