Sawyer House Clergy and Friends

Contemporvant worship service

2011-08-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

Oh Lord...

what I'm reading

2011-05-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

I got a Barnes & Noble Nook. So I've been downloading a lot of classics for free - Dostoyevsky, Darwin, Muir. Maybe I'll even read Pride and Prejudice if I get bored. The only book I've bought so far was Rob Bell's Love Wins for $10.99.

I use Facebook's Visual Bookshelf app to keep track of past, present, and possible reads. My lifelong goal is to eventually read 1,000 books. I've got 252 so far (if my memory serves me right - I added a bunch of titles from my sustained middle school reading-spree). In 2009, I read 66 books and 14,700 pages and worked through a lot of good titles. I doubt I'll ever hit that yearly number again until I retire, so it will probably take me a few decades to hit the mil. But whenever I want to go on a book buying spree, I pull out my "want to read" list and go crazy.

Anyway, I wanted to list some of the recent titles that in some way touch religion/spirituality (Sawyer House Clergy). Sorry, I don't have time for reviews:

*Orthodoxy (Chesterton)
*Love Wins (Rob Bell)
*Desire of Everlasting Hills: The World Before and After Jesus (Thomas Cahill, recommended in an older Rob Bell book)
*The Preservationist (David Maine) great fictional take on the Flood story
*The Next Evangelicalism: Freeing the Church from Western Cultural Captivity (Soong-chan Rah)
*Living Mission: The Vision and Voices of New Friars (various)
*A Spirituality of the Road (David Bosch) on missions
*A New Kind of Christianity (Brian McLaren)
*Pilgrimage of a Soul (Phileena Heuertz) by our co-executive director
*God After Darwin: A Theology of Evolution (John F. Haught)
*Reconciliation Blues: A Black Evangelical's Inside View of White Christianity (Edward Gilbreath)
*The Myth of a Christian Nation (Greg Boyd)
*The Wisdom of Stability: Rooting Faith in a Mobile Culture (Jonathon Wilson-Hartgrove)

2011-03-07T08:22:00.001-08:00

Are you living a great story with your life? from Donald Miller on Vimeo.

http://www.amazon.com/Million-Miles-Thousand-Years-Learned/dp/1400202981/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1276717752&sr=1-1

Free Media

2010-11-30T10:59:00.000-08:00

I think I posted this last year but WorshipHouseMedia is offering some free stuff between now and Christmas. Today's offering is a little weak (would have been great in 1997) but in the past they've given away some very quality stuff.

Check it out here: Worship House 12 Days of Christmas

"The New Ecumenicism" by Chris Heuertz

2010-11-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

Thought you all might enjoy this article by the Int' Exec. Director of my organization, Word Made Flesh.

It's called "The New Ecumenicism". Here's a teaser:

I was raised Catholic, but when I was around 10 or 11 years old, my parents joined a Protestant church.

As a child, the only noticeable difference was that mass had been shorted but required much more physical participation. The standing, sitting, standing, kneeling was disruptive to my attempts to sleep through church, while the Protestant services were notably longer, allowing for fairly undisturbed sleep...

10 Commandments of Scripture Interpretation

2010-11-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

Had to share this from the Out of Ur blog... especially since I don't think I've ever posted (well, this isn't original content either, but...) and there has been a drought on this blog since June. Enjoy!

Skye Jethani's simple guidelines for engaging the Bible and avoiding unhelpful controversy.

by Skye Jethani

I. You shall not make for yourself an idol out of Scripture.
This is a particular temptation among evangelicals who hold a very high view of Scripture. We forget that our highest calling is not to have a relationship with the Bible but with Jesus Christ about whom the Bible testifies. (John 5:39)

II. You shall honor the Scriptures as sufficient.
We have a common temptation to get “behind the text” or discover what “really happened.” While archeology and other disciplines are incredibly important, we must not forget that what God has given in the Scriptures is enough for life and faith.

III. You shall remember the metanarrative and keep it wholly.
In my experience more Christians can recap the meta-narrative of the Star Wars saga than can recap the biblical meta-narrative. It’s not enough to know the stories and events in the Bible. We must know how they fit together to tell a single story.

IV. You shall honor the Church as the recipient and the guardian of the Scriptures.
The books and letters in the Bible, with a few exceptions, were not written to individuals but to communities of believers. We must be careful not to read everything through the lenses of Western individualism. And we are wise to listen to how Christians in ages past have understood the teachings of Scripture.

V. You shall not neglect the context.
Proof texting (finding verses to make your point), isolating (removing a text from its surrounding material), and synchronizing (taking different gospel accounts of the same event and smashing them together) are all ways of abusing the text and landing on bad interpretations.

VI. You shall not ask questions the text does not want to answer.
Almost every nasty debate about Scripture results from forcing answers from the text it never intended to answer. Debates about creation in Genesis 1 and 2 fall into this category as do most other scientific issues. Avoid a “morbid interest in controversial questions” (1 Tim 6:4).

VII. You shall embrace both the form and content of Scripture as inspired by God.
When teaching the Bible we often retain the content or message but give little attention to the genre or style of the text. We lose something when we teach narrative as didactic truth, or when we ignore the poetic structure and beauty of a Psalm. And there’s a reason God said “You shall not murder” rather than “You will love life.” Do we see that?

VIII. You shall study Scripture for wisdom and not merely knowledge, and never for pride.
I’m really impressed that you’ve memorized 400 verses and took first prize in your Bible Quiz league. Now quit being such a jerk. (1 Cor. 8:1)

IX. You shall exegete your culture and not merely the Scriptures.
The goal is not merely to understand what the Bible said to those who lived centuries ago, but hear it anew today. Proper teaching requires that we bring the Word of God into our world and help people feel the gravity and beauty of it for their lives and context.

X. You shall remember that the simplest interpretation is usually, but not always, correct.
There is no Bible Code! And if you have to do all kinds of contortions with Scripture to get it to fit into your theological framework, you’re probably guilty of something bad. Paradoxes abound in Scripture. If your theology doesn’t allow for that kind of ambiguity and mystery I suggest you try Deism.

Skye Jethani is senior editor of Leadership Journal, Out of Ur, and Catalyst Leadership. He is the author of The Divine Commodity: Discovering a Faith Beyond Consumer Christianity, and he blogs regularly at The Huffington Post and SkyeJethani.com.

Need some help...

2010-06-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

I'm looking for a book or something that is a situation based discussion starter for students. Such as, "If you had a friend sleeping with his girlfriend what would you tell him." Obviously a more expanded situation and story would be great.

Anybody know of any situation based discussion starter resources???

Churchill Story---Craft it how you need it :)

2010-04-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

YO!!!
This is a story with background music I wrote for our message last night.
Last night was the last message in a series we were doing on families. Feel free to use this story...cut it, craft it, do whatever you need to :) :)
Hope this makes your life a little easier :)
Go do something special for your wife (or whoever is important to you) :)

Winston Churchill: Never, Never, Never Give In
Background Music: This Will Destroy You—“Threads”

World War II was the biggest war in the history of the world. It started in 1939 and lasted until 1945. It involved all of the major world powers and those powers spilt in two. It was the most widespread war in history, with more than 100 million military personnel mobilized. Most of the world united together to stop Hitler and Nazi Germany.

Great Britain was one of the major powers that joined in to stop Hitler. They had a great and power leader named Winston Churchill. And although his country and the entire world were in an uproar and in the midst of all the chaos, death, the holocaust, Churchill understood something about this war. He understood that this war was a war that they could not lose. Everyone across the world had to stand and fight!!!

On October 29, 1941, Churchill visited Harrow School. This was right in the middle of WWII. Unbeknown to Churchill the war would not end for another 5 years. The world was in an uproar. Most people thought the world was coming to an end. And the reality is that many of you feel that way about your family right now. It feels like a battle zone. But in the midst of the chaos and confusion Churchill gave these words to his hurting country.

This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never-in nothing, great or small, large or petty - never give in… Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.

You see Satan, the enemy, wants to destroy your family. He wants to destroy what God meant for good. He wants you to hate your family, to use your words in ways that cut your parents down. To have a bad attitude….to hold on to bitterness and not forgive, because he knows that he if can keep your family in chaos he can get to you.

Churchill understood that the war the world was fighting was one they could not walk away from!!!!

Your family is a place that you cannot walk away from!!! We all at some point want to quite but never give in!!!!You must fight for your family. You must fight to bring a positive attitude and to offer forgiveness your family. Whatever is going on in your family you cannot afford to just turn your back and give in!!! You must stand up and fight for ….not against your family.

What would happen if you stood up to the enemy and let him know he wasn’t going to get you or your family? What would happen if you fought for your family with everything you had? Never giving in…Never, never, never giving in but always fighting for your family. Standing up for your family … never giving in!!!!

It’s going to be hard. This isn’t an easy war to wage. We all need help. And when you need help, you have a group of people here that want to see you win at home too!!! All of us are here together wanting you to win. Cheering you on!!!!! To never, never, never give in. And when it gets tough, to never, never, never give, in!!!!!! And your Father in Heaven cheering and yelling for you to never give in. Keep Fighting!!! Keep Fighting!!!!

We all come from different homes so for each of you it may look a little different to stand up and fight for your family. So here’s how we are going to close.

Close your eyes and listen to this passage and ask God to help you fight…maybe it’s your words, your attitude, maybe you need to forgive, and maybe it’s something else. But ask God to help you stand and fight.

Read Psalm 46 while they pray…

S/G Questions
What do you need to fight for in your family???
What are you taking away from this series???

Godly Dads?

2010-04-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

I'm currently leading a weekly bible study for our Sr High guys. Last week we discussed the early life of David and the "qualifications" that he had that made God choose him over his other brothers. We talked about what it means to be a "godly man" and how each of us can try to attain that.

I asked them for specifics of what a godly man looks like in 2010 but they had a hard time coming up with descriptions other than, "goes to church." Thats it. A godly man is someone who goes to church. They didn't mention integrity, strength, taking care of a family, honesty, etc. Going a little further I asked them how many of them believed that their dad was a godly man. Not one guy spoke up. Now I imagine that was partly because they still aren't sure that being a godly man is something to be proud of or not. Either way, when none of them immediately felt that their dad was a godly man, it made me sad.

If your youth ministry is anything like mine, 75% of your volunteers are women. When I need help with an event its the moms that show up. When I need small group or Sunday school leaders, its the women volunteering.

So, where are the men??? I struggle with the fact that many (most?) of the dads in our church would have no hesitation to coach a little league team or spend an hour teaching their son the proper form for throwing a football, despite the fact that they aren't pros as either of these things. But they won't teach a group of boys about the bible, how to pray, or how to be godly men, probably because "they aren't pros" at these things. Why the disconnect? Why will they (we) share their knowledge on football technique without being asked, but will only share about their faith if we pull teeth?

So I ask you friends, how do we engage the men of our churches in the lives of our students? How do we leverage the life experiences of the men in our congregations for the benefit of our young men making decisions today?

For The Kids

2010-03-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

Tim Stevens of Granger Community Church is a pastor, blogger, author and father. In a post last week he outlined his family's rules and expectations for media usage. I found this post interesting because my parents had similar rules for me growing up. Fortunately for me, my parents also shared Stevens' idea that restrictions must loosen as kids grow up if parents expect their children to be able to make their own responsible choices once they're out on their own (IWU Code of Conduct anyone?).

I emailed Tim's post to all of the parents of youth on my church email list. I really thought it was too valuable not to pass along. Probably close to 100% of your students regularly use either the internet, email, social media, or an Ipod Touch, or a regular basis. I would guess that far less that 100% of their parents have any kind of guidelines in place to monitor and govern what their kids are doing/watching/listening to.

Here is one of Tim's thoughts that I really liked. You can find the rest at LeadingSmart.

iPod Touch restrictions – our 7th grade son saved his money for a long time until he was able to buy an iPod Touch. The first thing I did was took it, enabled the “restrictions” feature, locked it out from Safari (internet surfing) and YouTube, set a password, and gave it back to him. I don’t need my adolescent son walking around with a pocket full of temptation.

What do you think? Are parents that monitor emails invading their kids' privacy? Or are they doing what's best and keeping them safe? Should we let kids listen to what they want because "they'll hear it somewhere else anyway"?

Developing Adult Leadership

2010-03-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last night I held a meeting for adults interested in committing to an Adult Leadership Team for the Youth Ministry here at Covenant UMC. The decision to hold this meeting and “re-invent” our current adult leadership came from one of my personal goals as well as from our church’s recent Leadership Summit. The meeting was well attended and honestly went better than I anticipated. The adults were onboard with what I was sharing and I really didn’t even need to “convince” as much as I was casting a vision that they seemed to latch onto immediately.

Because this first step went as well as it did I wanted to share what worked well for me, what excited our adult leaders, and the direction we're embarking on in our youth ministry.

(Youth) Pastor Focused Ministry

The first problem with this model is philosophical. I am currently responsible for much of what goes on here and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, its my job after all. However, responsibility is one thing, focus is another. The way things are now, I am often the main focus, or the face, of Covenant’s student ministry. This problem is layered;
1. My way isn’t the way to follow Jesus. It’s merely a way. Students need to see other adults pursuing Jesus on a regular basis. The more adults they can see chasing after Jesus, the more they may realize that they too, (not just pastors!) can do the same.
2. If I fail, their perception of Christ and/or the church may fail with me. I’m not planning on a major failure, but if it would happen I would hate to take down the faith of my students with me.
3. Although I hope to never succumb to a major spiritual failure, there is a high chance I will leave this ministry someday. If our ministry is focused on a face (currently mine), what happens when that face leaves?

The second problem with a (Youth) Pastor Focused ministry is logistical. Logistically speaking, having one person “in the know” is a plan for failure. I’m currently very involved in the planning, teaching, leading, media and sound, etc. A problem could easily arise in a few situations and leave the ministry in a minor tailspin if...

1. I get sick, injured, etc and can’t be there for a day, week, longer
2. I leave.

If either of these things happen, the last thing I want is for things to come to a screeching halt here until a new person is found to lead and restore order.

(The following is found at ChurchMarketingSucks.com)

Fallout in a church will occur...“unless the church and its leadership has a culture in place that’s deliberately, intentionally and passionately committed to pointing people toward Jesus and away from the guy with the mic. That’s how disciples are made, how Christ is lifted up and how all our churches are made healthier and stronger.”

This is what I want to develop at Covenant. A culture (not a person) that points students deliberately towards Jesus Christ. And I think to do that we need to train, equip and empower our adults and parents to stand in the gap between the youth pastor and the students. The culture I want to foster involves all of our adult leaders along with their individual skills, gifts, failures, and questions. Within this culture, students want to share their excitements, worries, fears, and struggles, not only with the youth pastor, but with the other adult leaders that they know care for them on a personal level.

Our Plan

Step 1: Involving adults more in leadership, not just chaperoning, of all youth programming and events. This may have to do with leading our student greeters, working with students giving announcements, speaking, media & sound, etc.

Currently our students are responsible for most of these things. However, I am the “head person” for all the things they are responsible for. I find the greeters and teach them what to do. I find and prepare students for giving announcements. I teach and am responsible for the students handling media. If there is a problem with the sign-in process, they come to me. If there is a question about announcements, they come to me. If the media/sound is messed up, I fix it.

Again, I’m happy to do these things. It’s my job after all. But what happens when I’m sick? What happens when I leave?

So, step one involves training and empowering adults and parents in positions of leadership, not just chaperoning.

Step 2: Involving adults in the planning process. This is coming directly from the Covenant Leadership Summit our church staff and leaders attended back in January, led by Doug Anderson.

A major question was asked: What impact does the length of time you take to plan have on the fruitfulness of your ministry?

Doug proposed that the amount of time you need to effectively go from focusing on the area you want to focus on, to actually doing something to accomplish that goal, is 9-12 months. This is just the planning stages.

What is more typical is that events, trips, worship themes, etc get planned a few weeks out.

Problems: Not enough time to explore, familiarize ourselves with, and express ideas creatively.
Most of time is spent drumming up support from volunteers and excitement from students instead of focusing on event itself.

With planning ahead, we’re able to be concise, creative, focused, and “sticky.”

Action Steps

Re-invention of the Adult Leadership Team.

Group will meet 6 times a year to engage in discussion regarding youth ministry, brainstorm, date check, and creatively plan ahead for youth events and regular programming.

(At each meeting) I’ll layout the short (next 4 weeks), medium (2-4 months) and long term (4-9 months) plans for discussion. We’ll spend a little time on the short term, most of our time on the medium term, and a little time brainstorming on the long term stuff. We’ll discuss upcoming sermon series’ and how we can enhance those messages, future fundraisers, camps, trips, curriculum choices, etc.

Once this bi-monthly group is established, we’ll shift into delegation of responsibility and move toward involving more adults on a regular basis at 707 and other youth events.

_____________

This is where the “prepared” discussion ended. I then opened the floor up to our adult leaders for their thoughts, concerns, and general input. They jumped right in. They shared how they were excited to work together on developing sermon series’ in a creative way, how much better events would flow with this kind of advance planning, etc. They really seemed to grab onto the vision I was trying to cast. This was a moment of personal success that stands out from my first 3 years of youth ministry.

Agnostically living amongst us

2010-02-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

What do you desire? Why do you desire? How do you desire? Do you desire because it is what you want or is that ‘what’ the creator of ‘why’ you desire? Either way, which either one comes first, one can be understood as the creator of the other (Why-->What or What-->Why). Shouldn’t one first ask ‘how’ they desire? Well, maybe so, but not if the creator of ‘how’ one desires is rooted in the ‘what’ or the ‘why;’ cannot one know ‘how’ they desire based on the ‘what’ or ‘why?’ Maybe. Or I guess it all depends on ‘why’ or ‘what’ someone is desiring…the understanding of ‘how’ is not subject to a formula, but not fully developed until the ‘why’ or ‘what’ is complete. Maybe. Is it possible that our situations and experiences determine the ‘what’ and ‘why,’ which births our ‘how.’ For example, the first time I was ever in an art class (4^th grade) I initially desired to become a good artist, so I would take every assignment seriously and try my hardest at putting together the best artwork I was capable of. So it was my desire that drove me to do well at art, but ‘what,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how’ did I desire such? Well if you break down my situation and experience, one may have an understanding. 1. I was young and still did not know what my gifts (it came easy to me) were, for that matter I thought gifts were nothing more then things you received on your birthday or during Christmas. 2. I had an incredible teacher who was extremely gifted, which inspired me to be that great. 3. I was put in a situation that gave me permission and/or forced me at times to draw. 4. It was the quietness and atmosphere of the classroom. 5. It was the assignment at hand or the form/style of art that inspired me. 6. It was an opportunity to remove myself from reality. These are only a few ways in which I may have developed a desire to become a good artist…many which are based on experience and the current situation, yet without the understanding of what I personally was going through at such an age could give more clarity. Still the question remains if none of the examples presented above created my ‘what’ or ‘why’ I desire to then know how is my ‘how’ ever fashioned? Is it possible there is something much bigger than my experiences and situations and curiosity that may give authority to my ‘how?’ Something that plays such a role for a purpose, whether or not, I am that purpose, but at least part of it? But, ultimately, is it possible for me to know this author of my ‘how,’ which plays a huge part in ‘what’ and ‘why’ I do what I do in life? It is weird to think, but I desire to know this ‘something’…but why…? Is it even possible for me to know…is the human mind capable of such intellect? Well, I would hope I could know of this ‘something,’ even if I personally or on a relational side cannot know this ‘something’ I at least want to know what generates my desires! Is this ‘something’ so far removed? If this ‘something’ has the authority and power to form and influence my desires, wouldn’t it have the same authority and power to create the entire world and all that is part of it? Is this ‘something’ limited? If this ‘something’ has such great authority and power then it would cease to hold to a humans understanding of authority and power, because our authority and power is not that great and is limited…or is it? Maybe we are the author of our authority and power, which we make it as great as we want to, which transpires into ‘how’ we desire…ultimately birthing our ‘what’ and ‘why’ of our desires. Is it possible we are that ‘something’ and once we know this the authority and power we have over our desires increases=how influential we are in life because we are secure in ourselves? Yet, we hopefully desire there is ‘something’ much greater than ourselves or the next person, because life is quite shitty sometimes…is this all there is to life…understanding you are the author of all you do, which develops confidence, in hope you will make life much easier and better, all for what purpose? To then die? What happens when you no longer desire and/or all your pleasures have been met and/or you have succeeded in all that you can…what then? Life is anticlimactically lame…destined for meaningless death. Oh how I hope there is ‘something’ more authoritative and powerful then myself…oh ‘how’ I desire such…

In the last month I have come across people who sound like the above thoughts and questions, living a life controlled by the day-to-day task life brings every week. Everyday they find themselves hoping for more in life, but continue tracking on the same cycle (exemplified in NASCAR racing or the toy train a child puts on the plastic railroad in the middle of his room and proceeds to power with electricity for the next 2 hours, as the repetitious train goes in a circle). How jaded! But as I engage in conversation with these people they verbally or physically express how they wish there were more to life…I then wish they knew there is more to life. But, I too am overwhelmed with uncertainties and humbly state, I have at least once in my life thought in these terms; to the point of becoming enslaved by them…In what category can we put these thoughts, questions, and way of life:

“When we run over libraries, persuaded of these principles, what havoc must we make? If we take in our hand any volume; of divinity or school metaphysics, for instance; let us ask, Does it contain any abstract reasoning concerning quantity or number? No. Does it contain any experimental reasoning concerning matter of fact and existence? No. Commit it then to the flames: for it can contain nothing but sophistry and illusion”[1]

These are the insights, questions, and way of life agnostics have. Above I presented you with a group of questions, in which I conjugated up, by placing myself in the life of the people I come across in the last month. I then presented thoughts to my questions, as I tried to bring myself to some sort of conclusion, but my hope for ‘something’ bigger then myself remained. I wrote this to understand people, because I love people and many people I have come across lately, with these thoughts and questions, desire to know Truth (whether they know it or not), but do not know why they desire such.

One of my favorite musical artists is Iron and Wine, because of his intriguing melodies and authentic lyrics. He has challenged me to think much deeper and authentically express what I do or do not know…I have recently learned about his faith which is agnosticism. He grew up in a religious home, but did not understand much of what was taught in Christianity. This is the same testimony of another well known musical artist, David Bazan (informally, Pedro the Lion). They both influence many, but why and is their more agnostics amongst us than we think…how many are apart of your local church? From my experience there seems to be arise in agnosticism…maybe because it seems safe to people (not saying there is a God, but not saying there isn’t). Maybe there is a hope beyond “ignorance is bliss”…? ‘Could I be safe after life because I do not intelligently know if there is a God, but I am saying there could be, well actually there is…maybe…, but it is arrogant for me to say there is, because I cannot prove it.’ These are the thoughts many agnostics struggle with, which are part of the people I come across daily.

Fellas, I know you all are a part of life changing ministries, but I challenged you to ask yourself, “Do I love people, no do I authentically love people to the point I actively ask people their thoughts and questions about God. Do I challenge them to be real with God and with the Body of Christ? Do I give them the freedom to be this when I am around them…do people know I love them like Christ? Do I love my ministry more than the people a part of it (followers and leaders)? Why am I in ministry…is it because I love people?”

P.S. For more info on agnosticism and its different forms and Iron and Wine check out these websites:

http://www.skepdic.com/agnosticism.html

www.religioustolerance.org/agnostic.htm

www.atheism.about.com/library/FAQs/ath/blag_index.htm

www.ironandwine.com

Love you guys,

[1] David Hume, “The Skeptic’s Dictionary: From Abracadabra to Zombies: Agnosticism,” Robert T, Carroll, http://www.skepdic.com/agnosticism.html (accessed February 3, 2010).

goodbye, cruel world

2009-11-24T05:01:00.000-08:00

Nary a time have I contributed to this blog, other than mostly just heckling the posting youth pastors. Somehow, I snuck out of school with a degree they mistakenly placed in the "religion" field, so I barely have my toes in this Kingdom.

As most of you might know, my wife and I are approved staff with Word Made Flesh in Bolivia. WMF serves among the most vulnerable of the world's poor - specifically, we have a hospitaltiy center for women in prostitution that we'll be helping with in some capacity. We will be leaving in January for language school (Lord willing) to begin our 3+ year commitment. Several of you are on our prayer list (receiving monthly updates) and some have contributed financially as well. We've really appreciated the support. Just wanted to put up this post as a shout-out that you would remember us as we leave (and of course pray for us). We have all kinds of neat WMF paraphernalia (like nifty prayer cards and back-issues of The Cry, our advocacy journal) that I can mail to you if you're interested. We are also looking to partner with churches, so if you think your congregation would like to make a connection with WMF and the people we serve among, let me know.

Our new Bolivia blog is Boliving.blogspot.com.

It really is my intention to post something of substance eventually, probably on issues of cross-cultural interactions, Jesus' teachings on the poor and vulnerable, gray-areas of ministry, how we should interact with governments, etc. Ya know, all the light and fluffy stuff.

Peace, my brothas (and sistas).

Sex Sex Sex

2009-10-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

I've had a few discussions lately with some adults as well as other local youth pastors on this subject and I want to get your perspective as well.

Hypothetical: Parent thinks kid is or is about to become sexually active. Parents are godly, patient and loving and have spent much time in honest discussion with their kid about the realities of sex as well as the benefit of and biblical command for abstinence. However, kid still seems to be heading towards their own decision to have sex.

Now, parent obviously wishes kid wouldn't have sex but is prepared for the reality that they might. Parent feels the need to provide protection/birth control to at least ensure that pregnancy doesn't occur if kid decides to go ahead with choice.

Parent comes to you. Fills you in. Wants advice. What say you?

Is this a responsible parent looking out for their kid in the event that they fall into sin, making sure he/she doesn't become parent as the result of one mistake? Or does the choice to provide protection in case of sin somehow undermine the standard set previously?

Also, if you would look 20 years into the future when a lot of us may have our own kids facing this choice, would you follow the same advice you're giving to parent?

I'll let you know my thoughts in comments after I hear from one or two of you guys.

Autotuned Andy Stanley

2009-10-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

God Is Not a White Man

2009-08-04T09:11:00.000-07:00

Deep thoughts>>>>>

2009-06-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but sometimes I think to hard. So here are some deep thoughts that I found to help me through my day :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSrXpFb7jFo

Lovingly Cheering You On!!!
-Zach

"God texts the 10 commandments"

2009-06-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

Copied from McSweeny's below... (sorry guys, this is internet-forward type stuff, but I haven't really contributed on this blog). And after you read below, please take a moment to pray for me and Marc this next Tues-Thurs. We'll be at REVIVE, a youth group(s) mission trip within Ft. Wayne. I'm speaking Tues and Wed night, and Marc is probably doing everything else!

God texts the 10 commandments

1. no1 b4 me. srsly.

2. dnt wrshp pix/idols

3. no omg's

4. no wrk on w/end (sat 4 now; sun l8r)

5. pos ok - ur m&d r cool

6. dnt kill ppl

7. :-X only w/ m8

8. dnt steal

9. dnt lie re: bf

10. dnt ogle ur bf's m8. or ox. or dnkey. myob.

M, pls rite on tabs & giv 2 ppl.

ttyl, JHWH.

ps. wwjd?

Anonymous Letter ;)

2009-05-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

Sunday marked a first for me. The deacon board received a anonymous letter about concerns some nameless person had with me. Apparently my honeymoon hear is over ;)
I thought I would share the four concerns they had with me to brighten your day with a good laugh. The numbered statements are their words...and then I'll add my thoughts.

1.Doesn't Pastor Zach have his own yard...Why does his dog have to poop in the church yard.

ME-If she does poop in the church yard we pick it up. Also, I was just trying to help the grass be a little bit greener for Sunday Morning service. Forgive me for trying to help ;)

2.Pastor Zach rides the bike at the gym in the morning.

ME- Is this a true/false question...Obviously this person is very observant and hates exercise. I'm very sorry I refuse to get the "Pastor Pooch"

3. The suburban was donated to the church...Why do I see Pastor Zach driving it during the day.

ME-I'm not even going to comment on that one...

4. If Zach is driving around all day the secretary has to cover for Him and how is he suppose to communicate with Pastor Reid. Does Zach not have office hours?

ME-As you, my close friends know I enjoy the occasional Joy Ride through town...I mean the Suburban has rims and a bumping sub. I was just trying to make all the other youth pastor's jealous.(Just Kidding) I don't drive the suburban for personal use.

Needless to say this letter brought me many laughs! I wish you could have read the whole thing. The deacon board was ticked about the letter and told me to not worry about anything that was written. They assured me I was doing an incredible job and not to change anything I was doing.

Do your deacon boards or LBA have policies about anonymous letter?

Here is what I'm taking from this and i hope it encourages you...
-Don't let dumb people distract or discourage you from what you are trying to do.
-You are always going to have several critics so don't feel that you must please everyone!!!
-Like it or not...people are always watching you so set an example worth
watching.

Love You Guys and Cheering You On!!!
-Zach

Good Cop/Bad Cop

2009-04-28T07:34:00.001-07:00

This is copied and pasted directly from "Stuff Christians Like." Enjoy.

1. A group of youth group members are caught red handed about to pull a prank during a retreat.
A. You confiscate all their prank materials, put them in separate sleeping areas and call their parents in the middle of the night to let them know that their kids suck.
B. You tell them that what they've planned is a good start but they're going to need a lot more shaving cream to get the full effect they're going for.

2. While on a fall hayride through a scenic apple orchard, some of the students start throwing rotten apples at each other.
A. You unleash a righteous lecture on all the apple throwers that covers Eve in the garden, the insult it is to God to use His creation the apple for sport, and how there are teens in other countries that don't have apples to eat, never mind throw.
B. You use you're heightened adult strength and advanced wisdom to throw the apples harder and more on target than any of the students.

3. A student forgets to bring a signed parental waiver for the day at the water park.
A. You tell the student to "kick rocks" and leave them in the parking lot as you drive away to the water park without them.
B. You tell the student "We just throw those wavers into a cardboard box under the secretaries desk. Promise me you won't sue the church and get in the van."

4. You hear rumors that some students are sneaking out of camp at night to go to McDonald's because the camp food is questionable.
A. You search the garbage for evidence of wrappers and use a ultra violet blue light you saw on the show CSI to search for greasy finger prints.
B. You immediately confront the teens you think are involved and place an order for a Big Mac.

5. Despite your best efforts to break down the cliques, a "cool bus" forms as you get ready to leave for a retreat.
A. You create a complicated algorithm that measures coolness and spread the cool kids out mathematically among the three vans your church has.
B. You start bringing big bags of candy in hopes that you will become the "Official Cool Van Driver."

6. At the lock in, someone is found playing loud, non Church approved hip hop.
A. You confiscate the iPod until after the lock in is over and make the teens learn a "danceudrama" to a Carmen song.
B. You ask "Is that the new Akon? That is my jam!" and then proceed to do the worm.

7. You're asked to give your testimony at youth group one night.
A. You treat the opportunity like one of those "scared straight" shows where they bring teenagers to jail and at least 3 people end up crying.
B. You tell your story and make references to as many teen cultural items as google could find you, at one point remarking, "I guess you could say my life was like that show 'Gossip Girl."

If you answered A for most of the questions, congratulations, you’re a bad cop. I hope you’re the youth leader my daughters have when they grow up.

If you answered B for most of the questions, you’re a good cop and are probably very familiar with the phrase, “It’s better to ask for forgiveness than it is to ask for permission.”

The best youth leaders I had growing up were a hybrid of both. Able to be an adult and keep things moving in the right direction but not afraid to laugh and admit how fun a life spent with God can be.

The Unlikeliest

2009-04-17T20:12:00.000-07:00

Maybe you have a kid like James* in your youth program. Maybe you have more than one. James is the kid that I wrote off quickly after meeting him. Disrespectful to myself and the other leaders, goofs off too much to take anything seriously, and doesn’t show up enough to feel invested in the program. I accept that he attends and I try to love him as I would any other student, but deep down I keep my expectations incredibly low, never expecting him to rise past his current level of spiritual (im)maturity.

And then I came across the stories of Paul Potts and Susan Boyle and spent a long time thinking about how I treat students like James. Paul is a cellphone salesman and Susan is an unemployed 47 year old with a unique sense of humor and fashion. I imagine these two have been written off as void of potential more times than they would like to know. But then they’re given a chance to do what they were created to do. And WOW. Just watch the videos linked below.

Although I might view students like James as unlikely candidates for future leadership potential, spiritual maturity, or success, I always need to ask, “What does God have in mind?” Doesn’t He have a tendency to do big things with the underdogs? There might even be a bible story of two about him doing something up this alley.

Even when dealing with the most difficult and unlikeable students, the ones that I assume will never reach any real spiritual maturity, is there ever a point at which I write off a student and his/her future potential? I suppose I should ask whether God ever writes any of us off, deciding that we’re become irredeemable, not up to the task He has planned for our lives.

Am I called to treat students based on their likelihood of doing something great? Or am I, are we, called to love each student as a precious child of God, set apart for greater things than these? Because whether the student is Paul or Susan or James, God has something great for him or her to accomplish for his glory.

*Name changed for obvious reason.

Paul Potts

Susan Boyle

Holy Week or HELL Week?!?!

2009-04-08T11:55:00.001-07:00

Easter is always a wonderful time of year for those who consider themselves Christians. The weather is getting warmer (unless you live in Indiana). The flowers are blooming and you get lots of candy from the Easter Bunny. But for many Pastors, including myself, I find Easter to be one of the most stressful times of the year.

My schedule looks like this...
-Start planning for Easter about the first of the year
-Have several meeting between the first of the year and Easter week
-Do something for Palm Sunday
-Set up and facilitate the Stations of the Cross for the entire Church
-Run a stations of the Cross service on Wednesday
-Run Family Communion Night on Thursday
-Participate in Good Friday service
-Run an Easter egg Hunt on Sat (which I organized and planned)
-Not to mention Sunday's stuff: sunrise service, church wide breakfast, teach
Sunday school, go to normal service, and then we have our youth service
that night.

Long and short of it......I'm so busy "Celebrating" Holy Week that I find myself tired, annoyed, and not happy about it at all.

So if you find yourself where I am, here are a few tips to get yourself through Hell... I mean Holy Week.

1. Make sure you are spending PERSONAL time reflecting on Holy Week.I find myself saying that I'm spending so much "church time" reflecting on Holy Week I don't need my personal time.....WRONG..... Never underestimate the personal journey!!!

2.Make sure to build into your schedule quality time with your family. Spending time with my family always reminds me of God's great love and recharges me. Schedule specific time during Holy week to spend with your family...if you don't schedule it, you and I both know it won't happen and by the end of the week your family won't even recognize you. (P.S. Spend some time reflecting on Holy Week as a family. Don't just lead at church....lead at home too.)

3.Don't "go" to church and "run" the event...ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE!!!
To often we get so focused on "running" the event we don't participate and miss a great chance to ministry to God and be an active part of the Church. Don't loose focus or space out....STAY ENGAGED AND PRESENT.

4. Go in late...Make sure your getting your sleep, if your boss will let you, don't feel guilty for coming into the office late if you need some extra sleep. (P.S. Don't be a tool and take advantage of this either!)

These are things that I have found that help my Holy Week truly be a great experience and not a HELL Week. Hope this helps you!!!

"Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is NOT here; he has risen, just as he said." Matt 28:5-6a

Lovingly Cheering Each of You On!!!
-Zach

I've Seen It All

2009-03-04T13:03:00.000-08:00

I think anyone currently serving in a youth focused ministry will resonate with this video, and hopefully find it a little encouraging too.

What Would Your Church Do?

2009-02-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

A Longview, TX pastor wanted to find out if his messages were actually having an effect on the lives of his congregation, so he set up a little test.

Wanting to put his church members in the direct line of a person in need, he disguised himself as a stranger smelling strongly of alcohol and wandered around the church campus on a Sunday morning. His latest sermon series was called "Kingdom People" and he wanted to see if his words had made it out from behind the pulpit and into the lives of the people.

What happened? Some tried to ignore the man, but many went right up to him, offering food, shelter, prayer, and even an invitation to the church service. Sounds like this is one church that 'gets it.'

What would your church do?

Free Leadership Book

2009-02-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

I read or browse through around 15-20 ministry related blog posts daily. There are plenty that I don't make it through a line or two, but there are definitely others that I read two or three times before saving to a folder on my desktop for future reference. These saved articles have become a great source of encouragement and creativity for me in regards to church leadership as well as my own personal faith walk.

Needless to say, I was very excited when I found this FREE e-book today on Tim Steven's LeadingSmart blog. It is a collection of posts and writings from all kinds of church leaders including Craig Groeschel, Ben Arment and many other prominent bloggers.

So check it out. If nothing else, you'll save tons of time having been directed to the best of the best in recent church leadership blogs without having to sift through tons of sites everyday. Download, peruse, and enjoy.

Mars Hill

2009-01-28T14:30:00.001-08:00

Mark Driscoll. What do you think about him? I follow his blog and periodically watch his messages online and think he's got some good stuff to say.

One of my favorite things about Mark are some of his ideas about masculinity. Along with John Eldridge, Mark is one of my favorite pastor/authors out there addressing the idea of real men following Jesus.

Mark and his church were recently featured on Nightline. I thought it was good enough to pass along. Enjoy.

Prayer Request!!!!

2009-01-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

Please pray for a close youth pastor friend named Bryan Dehart.
For the last 8 weeks a student named Miguel has been attending his youth ministry. Last Wednesday Miguel got saved. This Wednesday Miguel dropped dead in his yard from a unknown tumor on his brain. Dehart had spent the last eight weeks picking Miguel up for church every week, needless to say this is a horrible loss. Please pray for Dehart, The 3:18 Youth, and the rest of the New Covenant Church.

Just a little reminder how fragile we and our students are...

Fight the good fight!!!
Love you guys!!!
-Zach

Blog Overload

2009-01-19T15:23:00.000-08:00

ChurchRelevance posted a list of the Top 60 Church Blogs. I know some of us have talked before about sharing resources and i think this is a huge wealth of info. Theres no way you can soak all of these up, but take a few minutes and see if you can find anything good.

Some of my favorites...

LifeChurch.tv
Church Marketing Sucks
LeadingSmart
Stuff Christians Like

What are you reading?

Ray Boltz

2009-01-12T08:53:00.000-08:00

I don't know if anyone else has heard the news about Ray Boltz going public about his homosexual pull and lifestyle; if not here is a brief by CT which contains the link to the interview he had with The Washington Blade? I would love to hear your thoughts especially in regards to how the church has been and should be dealing with those whom struggle with homosexuality. Living in the 'real world' now, I have met, become friends with, and been hit on by homosexual men, so your thoughts are much appreciated as I seek wisdom on how to love and witness to people with such a confusing struggle. Thanks

TC

http://blog.christianitytoday.com/ctliveblog/archives/2008/09/ray_boltz_comes.html

Full Heart--Full Altar

2008-12-22T06:27:00.001-08:00

Last night we had a major victory at The Stand. Our students are still learning what it is like to have their own service and we have seen many small victories over the last several weeks. But last night was amazing!!!

The theme of the night was "Great Big God--Even Bigger Love." We talked about how it doesn't make since that such an amazingly huge God would love us. Very basic message but something that we often forget at Christmas season.

Long story short...At the end of the night I invited the students to come to the altar (which they have NEVER done before) and thank God was such and amazing love.
I stepped down off the stage and began to pray at the altar and next thing I know the presence of God is THICK and the altar is completely FULL with students. These students have never done anything like this before, not even one student has come up front to pray, BUT the presence of God was thick and they had to respond. No gimmicks, no emotional play, JUST students wanting God!!!!

Praise God for this victory!
And what a great set-up of 09'

Keep Praying for your students...it really matters!!!!

Lovingly Cheering You On!!!!
-Zach

Am I a Pastor or a Farmer???

2008-12-18T10:51:00.000-08:00

What's Up!!!
I pray that this post finds you all well and enjoying this Christmas season.
Merry Christmas.....

Today I asked myself a question I never thought I would ask...Am I a Pastor or a Farmer?

Every year our church holds a live nativity with sheep, a donkey, and a cow. When you are in college they always tell you that you are a pastor...and the janitor...and the chair and table guy....and the bathroom cleaner. You are never just a pastor.

Well this year I got nominated to be the official farmer of Lakeview Community Church. Since we have our animals in front of the church like a petting zoo, my morning routine is to go outside, feed the animals, and give them fresh water. Today the cow decided to leave me a surprise. Apparently the stupid cow felt the need to take a HUGE dump in his water bucket!!! So here I am, Rev. Farmer Fred, dressed for work, trying to get the bucket full of cow crap clean without getting it all over my clothes.

In the midst of the terrible smell I'm reminded that even cleaning the cow crap water can be an act of worship... Smell and all.

No matter what your day is like remember... Whatever you do in word or deed,do it all for the Glory of God.....even if your cleaning out a bucket full of cow crap :)

Lovingly Cheering Each of You On!!!!!

-Zach

Free Resources

2008-12-02T10:28:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let you guys in on a pretty cool deal. WorshipHouse Media is giving away FREE media in the form of downloads, every weekday in December until Christmas. I think last year I ended up with close to $100 worth of stills, loops, countdowns and mini-films. Hope you find stuff you can use!

UPDATE:

I've linked to Vine Resources before, but I just came across their Christmas Swag package. It looks great and if you're doing a Christmas series this month and are looking for media, this comes with the PowerPoint background jpg, message background jpg, title video loop, high res promo image, and countdown video in quicktime format. Pretty sweet deal, all for FREE.

New Creation

2008-11-25T17:19:00.001-08:00

This video has really had a big impact on me the past few weeks. Just thought I'd share. The first time I saw it, I was a bit skeptical for the first couple seconds. If you find the "interpretation" distracting, downsize and just listen. beautiful song that really has been an encouragement for me personally. love you guys.

Here is the Chorus.......
Speak life into the darkness
Speak life into my lungs
Fill my soul deep as the ocean
I'm reaching for your love
All that I can do is give it back to you.
You've taken my old
skin and made it new again.
You have made me new, a new creation

New Creation from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.

Tithing----Mandate or Out-dated!!!

2008-10-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

I've been studing for a sermon on money for the students and found this website with "Questions about tithing." I thought it has a great explaniation.

-If anything it will make you think......

http://www.generousgiving.org/page.asp?sec=43&page=589

Would it be easier to be a Christian if I wasn't a pastor???

2008-10-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

Being a Christian can be very tough at times. There is no doubt that from our "pastor's chair" we see people struggling with living out their faith everyday.

Lately, I have been struggling with not allowing my faith to become my JOB. I find myself asking on Sunday, "Do you love God enough to spend time with Him?" Then I find myself on Monday saying, "I better go pray so I can be effective at my JOB....."

Being a pastor, a so called spiritual leader, and being a Christian can be a difficult task to juggle at times. Maybe it's just me ;) So this question has popped into my head... "Would it be easier to be a Christian if I wasn't a pastor?"

If I wasn't supposed to go pray... and I did. If I wasn't pressured to go spend time with God...and i did. Would that show a more pure love? How do you keep your job as a pastor from ruining your faith.........

Maybe you other pastors don't struggle with this, but the question is still a good one...

Would it be easier to be a Christian if I wasn't a pastor????

I don't know.....you tell me :)

Church Metrics

2008-10-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've talked about Church Metrics with any of you yet, but I wanted to pass it along. Church Metrics is a free church management app that allows a church to track statistics within its congregation. It was created by Lifechurch.tv as a resource for churches to use in tracking attendance, salvations, baptisms, and financial giving. It hasn't gone "live" yet, but I'm on the waiting list to be notified when it does.

I think most churches probably already have some sort of system developed to track these kinds of things. However, after sharing it with my staff here at Covenant, we're curious if this could work more efficiently than the system we currently use. Even if we don't utilize this tool, I'm looking into using it within our youth ministry.

Whether or not this becomes an app that you and your staff use, I think it's wonderful that churches are continuing the trend of sharing their resources...and for free! LifeChurch is really a pioneer in this area and if you haven't checked our their resource site, here it is...OPEN.

Introducing ChurchMetrics from ChurchMetrics on Vimeo.

Politics

2008-10-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

(Update: I posted this on my personal blog today. However I'm not sure if anyone reads that so I thought I'd copy it here also)

This year is different. For the first time in my life I really feel excited and passionate about an election. I made it a priority to watch the first presidential debate, as well as the vice-presidential debate last night. This is something I've not done before. Four years ago I would have changed the channel when I turned on NBC expecting The Office, only to find "boring news."

Perhaps this is the case because this year I am different, as are those around me. Four years ago my little brother wasn't driving trucks for the National Guard in Iraq. Four years ago I was certain homosexuality and abortion were the two most decisive issues in my political decision making process. Four years ago I was a student, and really couldn't care less about our nation's economy as I lived in my college bubble taking loans to fund my education. Four years ago I wasn't a youth pastor working in the lives of students wanting to know how Christians should act regarding the war, gay marriage, immigration, etc.

Yeah, this year I am different.

I think the thing that is most different however, is my idea of who God is and what his will for his creation looks like.

These past four years I’ve become more convinced that God is less concerned about rising oil prices and more concerned about young Iraqi and American, men and women, killing each other.

These past four years I’ve become more convinced that God is less concerned about a person’s sexual orientation, and more about making sure the rest of us love that person unconditionally and without limit, as Christ loves the Church.

These past four years I’ve become more convinced that America hasn’t the faintest clue what humility is. I wonder what it would be like to not be the first to speak (praise or condemnation), but to wait and listen to the ideas of those around us instead of assuming our answer is the only correct one.

These past four years I’ve become more convinced that forgiveness is a lost art. It’s suitable for children learning to play well with others and for “churchy people” but too old fashioned or illogical to ever factor into national security or foreign relations.

So what to do? I have no answers. I guess I’m not really sure if any of the candidates do either. I seem to find what I think are biblical ideals in each candidate. The thing is, I also find things I feel are unbiblical.

So where do I go from there? I pray. And I vote. I pray that God would be glorified regardless of who sits on the earthly throne at the White House. And I pray that God would draw the heart our our president closer and closer to Himself. And then I vote. I vote for the person whom I believe reflects the most Christlike world view, even if that candidate isn’t aware that is what he’s doing.

Yeah, this year is different. But so is the world. And its my hope that this next year will be even more different, if only because of a uniquely God shaped imprint upon it.

I Need Encouragement

2008-10-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

http://misleadingtruth.blogspot.com/

Thanks for your prayers and encouragement; love you guys.

T

Encouragement

2008-09-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

Yo. Check out this quote...

"last night didn’t go so well. i think….

but i feel that way about nearly each and every week. some weeks, i think my time with jr. high or high school students was wonderful and a “home run” kinda week. but most weeks, i think it just isn’t working. i feel like there is gap between what’s in my head and what I’m communicating. most weeks i feel totally inadequate. I’m not sure that i made sense or that the students connected with anything i said."

How about that? Sound familiar?

Check out the rest here...

I find myself resounding with the above quote way too often, feeling inadequate and less than effective in the lives of our students. I hope all of us can find encouragement in the last part of that post, the quote by Yaconelli...

"“God isn’t calling you to be success. God’s calling you to be faithful."

So be as faithful as you can be, no matter how unsuccessful you might feel.

MYSPACE PAGE!!!

2008-09-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know that myspace was like so five years ago...(a direct quote from one of my students).
But THE STAND has a myspace page. Our church has never had a website for the youth, so this is kind of a big deal to us. Check it out at www.myspace.com/thestandlcc
I'm new to myspace so if you have any ideas let me know.
Miss you all!!!

Lovingly Cheering You On!
-Pudge

me, a airplane, and a MORMON!!!

2008-08-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

Becca and I just went to Mexico for vacation. It was beautiful and we had a great time of rest and refueling. On our return flight home, I walked down the aisle of our plane, took my seat, and quickly noticed the gentleman to my right was fully dressed in BYU gear. Suddenly everything that I have ever heard or thought came rushing to my head about the Mormons...proxy baptism, the temple, and yes, of course, The Mormon Tabernacle Choir ;)

As we begin to taxi down the runway I asked the gentleman if he was a scout or coach from BYU. His response was no, but he had just taken His daughter their for college.

Long story short........The man was an Apostle in the Mormon Church (a big deal in the Mormon faith....similar to an Assistant DS for all of you Wesleyans and Methodists). For the next three hours we discussed the in's and out's of the Mormon faith. Everything from the starts of the faith with Joesph Smith to Christ return and the different levels of Heaven.

But hears is the question within it all......................

When asked about salvation he clearly started that his salvation comes from believing through faith in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He believes in living a fully "holy" life. Honestly, he gave the exact answer any of us would give if we were asked how we have salvation. Scripture clearly states that salvation comes by grace through faith in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8).....So does having terrible doctrine such has...proxy baptism, believing Joesph Smith and the Book of Mormon are true Canon, and other doctrines of the Mormon Church mean that they are not saved.

Remember....they truly believe and accept Jesus Christ as the ONLY way to salvation.

What do you think....Can "bad" doctrine take or keep you from salvation???

Perceptions

2008-08-15T08:43:00.001-07:00

This story has already been reported and blogged about elsewhere but I wanted to share it anyway...

It comes out of the hype surrounding race for the White House. Unfortunately this may be another example of Christians adding to the perception problems facing the Church today. A former pastor and weatherman (?) who now works for James Dobson's organization Focus on the Family, is praying for rain. This in itself wouldn't raise many eyebrows. It's his motivation that is causing a stir. He is praying specifically for rain on the evening that Barack Obama is planning to speak at the Democratic National Convention. His political agenda does not line up with Sen Obama's, so he's encouraging people to pray that God would send torrential downpours 2 minutes before Obama takes the stage.

Is this why we have prayer? And whatever happened to loving and praying for our enemies? My hope is that non-followers of Jesus don't confuse this man's message with the message of Christ. My hope is also that we'd be living lives worthy of the calling we've received so that those close to us would see more accurately what "Christlikeness" looks like in our world today.

Thoughts?

Jesus is my Homeboy

2008-08-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

I recently read a quote by Gary Haugen. He posed the question, "Are Jesus and I interested in the same things?" Thinking about that I took it a step further and thought, "Are Jesus and I interested in the same people?" Looking at the people I interact with daily makes me wonder if I'm intentionally interacting with the people Christ would be seeking out were he here in the flesh. I don't think I am. Actually just two days ago we had to stop in Gary, Indiana on the way home from a Cubs game. And I got uncomfortable at the gas station. Just because of the conditions and the people around me, I'm embarrassed to say. Overwhelmed with insecurity and fear, not love and compassion.

I've been coming to the realization that our good news is a social gospel, impossible to practice without the personal interaction of the least, the last and the lost. Looking at the past 14 months of ministry here I think I've done a good job of leading our students in their personal walks with Christ, guiding them in the discipleship process. However, I'm afraid I may have placed too much emphasis on personal growth and not enough on loving outwardly. It's a struggle.

Above is a picture I found on another favorite blog, The Plow. Maybe just a little reminder of the large scope of who Christ came to save.

Was this at your church pudge?

2008-08-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Yikes. Have fun explaining the huge tire mark 6 feet high on the wall to the trustees.

In other news...this post is my first attempt to begin posting more regularly on this site again. Cross your fingers.

Mass Confusion SHALL NEVER DIE!

2008-06-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

On behalf of Mass Confusion I would like to interject as a life long fan, these vicious comments displayed on the video are poor descriptions of such talent. The band is brilliant and has brought much spiritual peace to my soul and many others. As many of us know the three "rockers" who make up Mass Confusion: Tom I have a butt chin Chamberlin Jr. (vox), Dan ...I gave myself an enema by myself...Van Dyne (lead guitarist), and Joel you like Kara, "no I don't" yes you do, "shut-up guys"...(stomp, stomp, stomp) slam the door to Sawyer House Stone (drummer) have parted ways, but their "fine" music has brought them back. They are currently working on their second album titled, Why the Hell Did We Call This Band Mass Confusion? EP, which will hit the stores October 34st 2009. Due to the great amount of pre-orders already...12, the band will only be releasing the CD in select stores: 7 Elevens, IWU bookstore (thanks Joel), Franks "We buy any old, boring, CD for 1/2 price and re-sale for 1/4 of the price" bargain barn, can purchase them on the IWU Choral tour next summer (thanks Dan), and Starbucks @ Aspen Grove located in Littleton Colorado (thanks Tom). This CD is hot and will go quick. The new hit single, "It was definitely a Friday night" is topping the charts. With all of this said I would appreciate your apologies and respect for the entire band as they have proved themselves to be one of the best bands to ever live. This is for you Mass Confusion! Live On!

mass confusion

2008-06-08T15:48:00.000-07:00

Below you'll find a video of Becky and I (& Joe Vitiello) making strawberry jam from some berries she got at a local u-pick place. I made an interesting impromptu comment, re: that one-hit wonder band led by our own Thomas Chamberlin. I thought it was worth sharing ... (no offense Tom)

MISSING a student!!!!!

2008-06-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

Last night started really well! We had a great service. The students were engaged and I had several of them tell me that they really "got it" tonight. So that was very encouraging :)

But that's were the night went south.

At about 7:15 someone asks, "Where is Grant at?"
I responded with the casual, "I don't know, try outside."

About 2o minutes later the student informs me that they have looked outside, in both buildings, in all the bathrooms, and Grant is nowhere to be found.

At this point I am mildly conserned. So the student and I go on a hunt for Grant.

20 more minutes pass by and we still cannot find Grant. We had looked everywhere!!! I was so consecnerd that we even tried to get a hold of his parents to see if they had pick him up (Grant always rides home with Justin).

Almost an hour has passed by now and all of a sudden Grant walks out of our other building which has wireless internet.

Why does wireless internet matter? I'm glad you asked...

Grant had just spent the last HOUR, taking a crap, playing his PSP on the wireless internet in the other building....LOL

Needless to say, I'm glad I still have my job and I'm thankful for that.

So next time you can't find one of your student check the stall, because they are probably taking a dump, playing their PSP on your wireless!!!

-I LOVE YOUTH MINISTRY :)

Dear God...

2008-05-13T18:09:00.000-07:00

There is a relatively new website project out on the web that I bumped into the other day. It's Dear-God.net. Their premise is simple. "Dear God is a global project for people around the world to share their innermost hopes - and fears - through prayer." They aren't saying who that God is exactly, but are encouraging people to reach out to Him (Her, It) in whatever form works for them.

It really messed me up for a few days to read the cries of so many people screaming out for a God they just can't seem to find. The experience of sifting through these prayers actually inspired a message I gave to our youth 2 weeks ago, and will be giving again on June 8 (version 2.0) to our church. The theme of the message is desperation. What does it mean to be desperate? I examine the legitimacy of desperation, citing the lives of David (in the desert), Jonah (in the fish), and Job (the whole deal), and comparing them to the modern cries of Dear-God.net and our own experiences as well. Taking a look at what it feels like when we really believe that God isn't coming to save us.

I'm trying to find a new ending to the message though. I'm heading towards focusing on the reason we know we're desperate; that we were made for something better...and our minds, bodies and souls scream that out to us everyday of our existence.

Would love to hear any thoughts, ideas I might use on June 8. May even post the sermon link later. We'll see.

THE STAND

2008-04-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday was a very exciting time around good ole' LakeviewCC. We launch our new youth service/ministry called THE STAND.

Doors open at 5:15 for free food and hang out time. We have several game tables and seating areas for people to hang out. At about 6:00pm the service starts with videos, skits, worship, and I preach. For the first week, it went extremely well! I cannot thank God enough for what He has done. We had several guest (who don't have home churches!!!) and they felt our warm atmosphere. Here are a few pics :)

Our entire idea is to create a safe, comfortable atmosphere, where youth feel loved and accepted! Praise God for working through THE STAND!!!!

Media; Some free, some not

2008-04-10T13:58:00.001-07:00

I was in the market today for some new and updated media to use with our youth worship services. I found some great countdown clips over at WorshipHouseMedia. I also found some great stuff at Igniter Media. I settled on the IgniterBacks Vol. 2. It includes 10 countdown clips, 20 motion loops and over 90 stills. All for $80. I thought it was a pretty good deal considering stills go for about a buck a piece and motions for up to 10 a piece.

So there you go...2 wonderful sites you may or may not have known about for high quality media.

Then I followed a link over to a site called Vine Resources. While you'll find much less here, it is all still very high quality and it is all FREE. Not to mention, these are resources coming from a student ministry that uses them specifically for their own series' of messages. So, if you're like me its a double benefit of 1) using their ideas as well as 2) using the media. It's good stuff.

I hope this is useful. Are there any other good resources you've been using for media or stock photos?

Series Planning

2008-04-02T07:37:00.001-07:00

I'm spending a chunk of this week brainstorming and planning our 707 gatherings (our main programming time) for the rest of the school year and into early summer. Today I'm in the brainstorming process, taking down any and all ideas, thoughts and possible themes. I'm curious if any of you have had success with any specific themes, focuses (foci?), topics or sermon series. I'd love to hear your ideas. I'll post some of my brainstorming as well as the process going along.

UPDATE: I wanted to go ahead and throw out some of what I've been thinking about. Comments, additions, thoughts all welcome.

Topic: "Religion Sucks."
a. Busyness (why waste time with religion?)
b. In-authenticity (based on book Messy Spirituality, why hide our human side? Masks.)
c. Breaking the Stereotype (Christian or Christ follower? We're often seen as narrow minded, rule loving, hypocrites. Lets shake things up a bit)

Topic: "Apologetics"
a. Why Apologize?
b. Does God Exist?
c. Problem of Evil
d. Reliability of the Bible

Topic: "Other World Religions"
-under construction

Topic: "Unlikely Heroes"
-Lesser known OT characters. Under construction

10 Questions: Ministry

2008-04-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

This is taken from Craig Groeschel's blog. Craig is the founder and senior pastor of Lifechurch.tv and one of the church leaders/bloggers that I subscribe to. He periodically uses the "10 Question" format and I felt that this one was worth passing along.

1. Are the people closest to me in ministry lifting me higher or dragging me down?
2. How have I intentionally developed the leaders around me in the past week?
3. Am I speaking transparently with at least two other close trusted friends on a weekly basis?
4. Am I submitting myself to the correction and coaching of at least two mentors?
5. Am I holding a grudge against someone?
6. Am I speaking well of other ministers?
7. Am I falling for the temptation of comparing, complaining, criticizing or gossiping?
8. Are my words and relationships characterized by words of faith or negativity?
9. Do people enjoy being around me or am I often “down”?
10. Have a made at least three new ministry friends in the last year?

What about it? Do you find any of these particularly insightful to your life/ministry/experience? I'm definitely lacking in more than one of these areas, yet can really see how piercing questions like these, although difficult (personally, see #'s 2,3,7), have the potential to push the ministry I'm involved with into the next level, making it less and less about me and my skills and more and more about equipping others to invest and involve themselves in ministry.

Just stuff to think about and keep in mind while we're out "doing ministry."

Randomity

2008-03-17T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hey friends,

I came across 2 links today I thought I'd kick around. The first;

A church in Daphne, Alabama recently had a cookout called the "Beast Feast and Wild Game Supper" (i'm not making up the name and yes Zach, this does sound exactly like something you would do). All apparently had a good time with the exception of 8 people contracting e. coli! yikes. Just a reminder to us all in church leadership that we probably need to check cooking credentials no matter how much your sr. high guys beg to use the grill. can you say "liable"?

The second;

I'm a regular reader of Tim Stevens' blog. He is the executive pastor at Granger Community Church near South Bend. They're big into the cutting edge worship experience and have just launched a huge multi campus campaign for their congregation. Anyway...while I'm not totally sold on the mega church vibe, they do a great job of really utilizing culture in the church context. He has just published a book regarding that topic called Pop Goes the Church and I'm looking forward to reading it. If you're like me and would like a chance to win it instead of buying it, check this out.

Other than that I hope everyone is doing well and that you find this holy week a god touched and personal time of renewal.

Lots of Change and Lots of Learning

2008-03-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Not having posted in a few weeks, a lot has been going on here at Covenant. Some fun things, some not so fun. I'll begin with the latter.

Our Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) made a recommendation to our Methodist hierarchy (District Superintendent and Bishop) that our church seek new leadership for the coming year. This essentially means that they want a new pastor. Following the UM tradition (i suppose), we as a church have given authority to our SPRC and place our trust in their leadership, and that being the case, can't validly question the leadership they then provide.

It's tough though. Our attendance is up. Many church programs are gaining in momentum as new and old members are taking ownership of them. Things really seem to be going very well here. And then "we" request new leadership. I know there are things going on in the background of church politics, but this is really a test for me, and for much of our staff and congregation.

All that to say I am recognizing this as a learning experience. While its really sad to have to see a great pastor/leader/mentor/friend go, I'll get to see first hand how a "changing of the guard" goes down in a church setting. It will be different working for a new pastor, just as I was really feeling that my relationship with our current pastor really couldn't have been more supportive or encouraging. I would like to ask for your prayers for our church, for the congregation, for Steve (the current pastor) and for the new pastor that will be announced very soon. It's a tough situation but I have to believe that just because we as humans make certain decisions God would let us go from his grasp. He's still got us and I know He'll take us to wherever we need to go next.
____________________________

Alright, now a few quick fun things.
1) We bought a new sub woofer for our youth praise band/sound system. 800 watts and wow does it fill out our room. We only had to mains previously and after listening to the band last night with full sound, its hard to believe we ever went w/out it.
2) We're having a Lenten Brunch and Easter Basket Auction this coming Sunday. This a youth sponsored event where we are in charge of the brunch all morning, and then there is a silent auction for some amazing Easter baskets that people in the congregation put together and donated. All money going to our sr. high mission trip in July. I'm psyched.

NEED YOUR HELP!

2008-02-27T07:08:00.000-08:00

I have been mating with a couple other youth pastors in the community. We all share the same ideals about youth ministry. In the south (Bible Belt) we have a HUGE problem of "MY church is better than your church." It is nothing like I have ever seen up north. So here is what me and these two other your pastors are trying to pull off. We are going to have a big rally with all our youth groups together once a quarter and then have Mission Mondays a few Mondays this summer to get all of our kids together. Mainly to show all of our kids that we are all on the same team and to show them other Christians that go to their schools.
HERE'S WHERE YOU COME IN!!!
What are some ideas you have to help this go smoothly?
Do you have any ideas for a name for these rallies?
What are the red flags we may encounter? (theology doesn't count, we are all on the same page)

Thanks for your help!!!
Love you all :)

-Z

Good News For Christian Football Fans I Suppose

2008-02-21T09:55:00.000-08:00

If you happen to be in a church leadership position and have lamented not being (legally) allowed to show the Big Game to your church, youth group, etc, lament no longer. The NFL has reversed its previous decision and is now allowing religious organizations to show the game, no matter what size screen they are showing it on. The previous ruling dictated that a church could not show the game on any screen larger than 55 inches.

So there you go...start your pre-planning for next year and your pre-pre planning for 2012 when the game is in Indy (hopefully)!

Many Faces of Youth Ministry :)

2008-02-21T07:06:00.000-08:00

Good Samaritan Skit

2008-02-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here is a a skit we did at youth group. The kids loved it!
It works really well if the acting students are over dramatic and really into it.
Think dodgeball instructional video. :)
Use it if you want....change it however you like...I just hope it helps!!!

Good Samaritan Skit: Luke 10:30-37

Roles:
Narrator
Billy: on their way to class (maybe dressed kinda nerdy)
Bullies: (however many you want)
Jock: late for practice and to busy and stop and help
Prep: doesn’t want to get dirty and doesn’t want to be seen with the hurt person
Good Samaritan: Student who helps Billy

Props:
Nerd gear
Torn shirt for nerd
Sports equipment for jock
Prep gear

SKIT:

Narrator: (read with a voice like the "How to video" on Dodgeball)
One day Billy was on his way to class at. It was a beautiful day, and Billy really loved his
school.
(Billy will be walking across the stage with a big dorky smile as happy as he could be, even whistling)
All of a sudden Billy feels a tap on his shoulder.
(Have the bullies tap Billy on the shoulder)
Next thing Billy knows is that he is shoved into a closet and well……
(Bullies throw Billy into door on stage right. Billy screams and you hear the sound of smacks and crashing chairs)
(After several seconds Billy craws out to the middle of the stage beaten up)
(You could even have red paint put on Billy’s face, and wearing torn cloths.)
Lucky for Billy here comes some help.
(Enters jock carring practice gear, obvisouly in a hurry)

Jock:
Are you ok?
(Billy moans)
You really need some help………
(Pause as jock looks at practice)
I mean…I would love to help…but I have practice and home work, and I have to call my girl
friend…I sorry
(Pause)
I hope that you are ok…
(Jock leaves in a rush)

Narrator:
Poor Billy…He really needed to be helped but that person was in too big of a hurry.
Maybe someone else will help Billy.
(Enters Prep dressed very nice and talking very loudly on the cell phone)
(The Prep works best if the person is over-the-top dramatic)

Prep:
Like I know…She did look like a hippo in that dress. OMG…R U OK
(Billy moans)
Like you really need some help…That blood does not match your shirt at all…
(Billy moans)
(Prep turns around and starts talking on the cell phone)
You are not going to believe this…you know that nerdy kid, no…the other one, no…the
other one, no…the other one, no…THE OTHER ONE…
Yeah like he got beat up and needs some help. I know I can’t get blood on my new cloths…
What if someone sees me with him…OMG…TTYL…BFF
(Prep turns back to Billy)
Like I know your really hurt but like I got to go…TTFN

Narrator:
Poor Billy…isn’t anyone going to help him.
(Enters good samaritan student)

Good Samaritan:
Hey are you ok?
(Billy moans)
You look awful!
(Billy moans)
I should help you……
(Pause as student turns away…Student then begins dialoge away from Billy)
He really needs help…...But I really don’t have time
He looks so bad…....But I’ve got school work and other stuff I have to get done
But what if someone sees me with him……
(Pause………)
I don’t care I have to help.
Come on Billy and let’s get you to the nurse.
(Student helps Billy up and takes him to nurse)

I'm a DOER!!!

2008-02-18T11:27:00.000-08:00

So often I find myself in situtations where I know what to do, but I spend so much time thinking about what to do, the moment passes by and I don't do anything.
This past Wednesday I challenged my youth to stop thinking and start doing.
In the word's of Drury, It was a home run.
(ALL PRAISE TO GOD FOR MOVING THE HEARTS OF THE YOUTH).
-there are a compele different ending below, make it your own :)

Below: Manuscript and skit
Use it and make it your own.

I’m a Doer!!!
Checkers with June-June
One of my favorite memories growing up was going over to my grandma’s house. My grandma’s name was June-June and June-June was also our babysitter. My sister and I loved going over to June-June’s house because there were two things that we knew where going to happen. One was that we were going to get to eat Pringles. I loved Pringles and because they were so expensive I never got to eat them except when we went to June-June’s. The other thing that was going to happen was we were going to play checkers.
Who loves checkers? I loved playing checkers especially with June-June. So we would get the board out and get the pieces all set up. I would always play with the black game pieces and June-June was always red.
The only problem with playing checkers with June-June was that she was really good and obviously I was not. I was a 7 year old playing against a lady in her sixties. Needless to say I really didn’t have a chance. She kicked my butt.
I remember playing and focusing so hard on what move I would make. I would sit at the table thinking, and thinking and thinking, for what seemed like hours contemplating the next move I would make. Until finally, June-June would get tired of sitting and would start counting down from 10…9...8...7…6…5. And all of a sudden I would quit thinking and do something. And then she would move and then the process began again. Thinking, Thinking, thinking…and as I got older even though I knew what I was suppose to do I would think and think and think, until June-June would say, just do it.

We have moments in our lives like this too. We know that it is our turn to move but we just sit there thinking. We almost always know what our next move should be but we just sit there and wait. Maybe, waiting for someone to move for us or tell us what to do. Sometimes we wait because curtain people are watching or because we know that what we must do might make us uncomfortable, yet we know that it is our turn and we know what move to make but the moment passes us by because we just think…
In Luke 10 we see this also played out. This is the parable of the Good Samaritan. And to help tell this story some of your fellow students have put together a little drama to help. So if you would please put your hands together for this presentation. Scream as loud as you can for our presentation of another day at Alamance High.

Good Samaritan Skit

What a great job they did. They are awesome. And I know we were poking fun at this and usually you don’t have to worry about walking past someone who is bleeding at you school but…

The point still remains. We are faced with moment’s everyday that put the choice is placed in our hands and we are forced to make a decision. When I played checkers with June-June at first when I started playing I did not always know what the right move was, but as I grew to learn how to play the game I knew what move I had to make. So I made my move.
And the fact remains that there are many decisions that you guys face during the day. I’m not talking about what to eat for lunch, but should you stay and listen to that dirty joke, or should you curse, or should you go to that party were you know people are going to be drinking, or should you do with or that with your boy friend or girl friend. You guys have big decisions everyday and you know what the right move is but we spend to much time thinking and not enough time doing.
Are you going to have enough courage to stand up for what you believe in and not only think the right choice but to do right choice.
It’s one thing to think of the right thing to do….It’s another to do the right thing…
It’s one thing to think of the right thing to do….It’s another to do the right thing…

James 2:14-17
You must not only think of the right thing but do the right thing.
Let me ask you this…last time you were faced with a tough decision what did you think…and what did you do.

I think that many of us are thinkers but not doers. We get half way there.
When I played checkers with June-June there were moves that I had to make during the game that I didn’t want to make. I knew that to win the game I had to sacrifice a game piece, a piece of who I was to make the right choice.
And to win at this game of life to win at this Christian walk you also are going to have to sacrifice and make moves that you really don’t want to make.
But we must be doers!!!
God’s word says that without action our faith is dead….

How could we transform the world if we became doers!!!!

With every head bowed and every eye closed.
This time is between you can God.
Ask yourself if you are truly a thinker or a doer.
We are going to spend the next several minutes seeking God.
If you have trouble stepping out and being a doer, this is a great time to ask God to give you the strength to be a doer.

Pray at your seat, come to the altar, whatever you would like.
But lets become Doers……..
Let’s seek God together….

In this youth group we are going to be a family of doers…not students who can just talk the talk but students who are willing to step out and be doers….do the right thing.
Here is what I want you to do. We are going to spread out on this half of the gym and I want you to spend some time praying about being a doer. We are not going to be just thinkers any more….we are going to be doers.
So quietly spread out across this half of the gym and ask God to give you the strength to be a doer.

Can You Love Your Enemies?

2008-02-14T15:43:00.000-08:00

Found these online today at the Plow. Wish I would have had them this past week as we actually discussed Luke 10 and the good samaritan and how we are to love our neighbors. We talked about finding that one person, the one who really gets to you. the one who you would say you hate if you weren't a christian. i had our students picture that person, then passed out boxes of valentines candy and told them I wanted them to give them to that person this week at school. We'll see next week how it went. I'm planning on using these to facilitate more discussion.

Some questions; In general, do these detract from the idea of loving our neighbors by being too over the top? Is there an "over the top" when talking about loving others? Do you think these would fly in your church? Youthgroup? If not, why?

Lent and Holy Week

2008-02-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

Hey guys,

We're into the Lenten season and our church is beginning to plan our Holy Week services (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter) and I was wondering if you have any good ideas you're using with your youth programs, getting them involved in Easter and maybe even the less celebrated days.

Upcoming Series

2008-02-09T06:02:00.000-08:00

I'm in the process of nailing down our next sermon series. Partly inspired by Shane Claiborne, we're calling it What If Jesus Meant Everything He Said?. Here is what I have so far;

Week One: I Heart Who? (Loving our neighbors)
Focus is Luke 10:25-37, the good samaritan. Key verse is 37a, "Go and do likewise." Main theme is that if they have flesh and blood, we're called to love them.

Week Two: Faith With Legs (Practical ways to love people)
Focus is Matthew 25:34-46, the sheep and the goats. Key verse is 40 "...whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." We'll be taking a trip the following Saturday to hand out food and coats downtown Ft. Wayne, to anyone hungry or cold.

Week Three: 4 Seeds (parable of the sower)
Focus is Mark 4:1-20. Key verse might be 9, "...He who has ears let him hear."

While I've tentatively planned out each of these lessons, I wanted to throw them around unfinished and see if any of you had thoughts. I'm really looking for illustrations, visuals, different angles on these messages that I haven't thought of. Would love to hear your thoughts.

Church WiFi?

2008-02-05T07:10:00.000-08:00

I found this article on another blog but thought it was interesting enough to pass along.

"The geek world has been abuzz lately regarding Ars Technica's look at the ethics of stealing wifi. At Church Marketing Sucks, we don't make too much of an effort to be arbiters of morality. But we would love to be proponents of ideas.

How about opening your church up?

These days, there's more to being welcoming to visitors than putting "Welcome" on your church sign. Shoot, it even goes beyond having official "greeters."

What if your church had the sweetest wifi in the town, some really comfy chairs and a few friendly faces? How great would it be to have folks normally hostile to "church" be able to say, "I'm gonna go hang out at the church and get some work done."

As a connoisseur of fine seating (ENO and Love Sac, if you're wondering) and a constant searcher for the perfect coffee shop, I can tell you this: if I found somewhere with good coffee or sweet tea, open spaces and comfy chairs, I'd be there in a heartbeat. Folks lucky enough to work at home, thankful as they should be, need to get away sometimes.

So bump up your Internet speed, get some decent coffee, sweet tea or pastries, and invite folks on in. This is the 21st century. Maybe it's time that the church is a friend for the friendless, a home for the homeless and an office for the officeless."

Alright, it's Marc again. All that being said, here are a few things to keep in mind

1. Will offering this necessarily bring people back to church (if that is even a goal)?
2. How stringent is your content filtering? (how do coffee houses offering wifi prevent objectionable/illegal material ie. porn? do they at all? I really don't know)
3. Would this even be worth it or would it be fighting a losing battle to the 900 Starbucks type places already established?

Thoughts?

I got a surprise Saturday at Lunch...I was preaching Sunday Morning!!!!!

2008-02-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

I got a call Saturday at 11am. It was my pastor telling me that he was going to be gone the rest of Saturday and Sunday to an undisclosed destination. Long story short, my pastor jumped town for the weekend and I was left with the full responsibities for Sunday. YIKES! Nothing like short notice.

If you attended chapel the day a preach, you hopefully remember the sermon I gave about the power of God's word. It was based off of Matt 4 where Jesus is being tempted in the dessert.
A little refresher....Jesus is being tempted by Satan...... Satan used Scripture to try and get Jesus to fall, and Jesus uses Scripture to combat the temptation. Needless to say there is amazing power in Scripture if Jesus and Satan both used it against each other.

That is the sermon I gave on Sunday. I have to be honest, I was a little frusted with my pastor jumping town without giving me a reason why.
After thinking about why all this was happening, my mind jumped back to this summer to somthing Wilbur Williams said in Israel.

During our trip, time after time, we would be postponed for some unknown reason. Instead of getting upset Wilbur began to praise and thank God for being in control. I can rember Wilbur saying, "God we don't know why this is happening, BUT you do. So thank you for having a plan bigger than we are."

Flashforward back to Sunday.........I gave the message in both services and the Lord truly blessed it. The response from the congregation was AMAZING. At our church the congregation occasionally will clap after the choir sings a special, and amazingly enough they were so moved by the message that after the dismissal they began to clap. I have no doubt that this clap was a praise offering to God and I give Him all the PRAISE and HONOR.

Let me encourage everyone. So often we get upset because the circumstances in our lives change without our permission or consent. REMEMEBER...GOD IS IN CONTROL!!! Next time you face a situation where you are completely confused and frustated because your plans change, remember what Wilbur said, "God we don't know why this is happening, BUT you do. So thank you for having a plan bigger than we are."

May you remeber that God has a bigger plan!

Loveingly cheering you on,
Pudge

Cross Your Fingers

2008-01-29T12:54:00.002-08:00

Warsaw. Fort Wayne. Burlington. Colorado. California. What more can I say? Only a few short years ago we sat next to one another, a small group in a Drury class (Jon and Zach (RIP Nate)), trying to figure out where we'd copy and paste more Christian themed images from the internet to fill the pages of a book we've hopefully glanced at at least once or twice since. And now we're entrusted with the lives, spiritual and physical, of Jr. and Sr. High students. Yikes.

The past months I've been thoroughly enjoying life as a youth pastor and married man and I hope you have as well. Although I've formed great relationships with the staff at my church and the parents of the students here, I miss you guys. I miss living in a house with like-minded ministry students, sharing ideas, frustrations and encouragements (insults too), and playing smash bros while adam tried to sleep. I created this blog in an attempt to better stay connected with you guys, as well as anyone else who might benefit from a forum of this sort. Lately I've come across tons of articles I'd like to share, events I'm thinking about, ideas for sermons, etc, that 18 months ago I could bounce of you whenever I felt like it. Not being able to do that as easily now, I hope this blog will help facilitate the discussion that I miss on a regular basis.

No pressure. If you're not a blogger, or even a blog reader, that's fine. If this thing dies in a month, I won't be offended. Just an attempt to stay connected with you guys and benefit from multiple IWU ministry degrees instead of just one. Let me know your thoughts.