On this final day of the month I thought I would let you all know that I have not fallen off the face of the planet, nor have I been hiding in a hole all month. This month has been particularly busy for me and June is not looking very slow either.
Coming up...
Next week, June 3-6, is the North Texas Annual Conference in Plano, so I will be out of the office until Thursday of next week. Call my cell phone if you need to get in touch with me. Hopefully I will have my laptop up and running for the option of blogging/emails during the parts of Conference that drag...or when something exciting is happening on the floor.
Also, I found out a few weeks ago that because I am not a full member of the AC, I don't get to vote on clergy delegates for General Conference. Bummer! Oh well, I will still try and see who is running and get to know them a bit better.
My birthday is coming up in a few weeks and my parents will be here to celebrate Father's Day and my 29th at once.
In other news, I will be preaching here at Trietsch during the 9:30 contemporary service during the whole month of June. Jim and I are collaborating on a series of messages dealing with the issues of conflict, criticism, and complaining using Paul's letter to the Ephesians as our biblical basis.
Preaching last weekend went GREAT and I can't wait to do it again during June and July (when Jim is on vacation).
OK, now I can successfully say that I posted this month.
Grace&Peace
31 May 2007
30 April 2007
Kids at Night
Deb and I just put Caitlyn down for the night and eventho we didn't talk about it prior to her going down, we both commented on how much we like watching her falling asleep.
It is quite interesting that her sleep resonates out from her core. As she falls asleep the first thing that stops moving is her legs, then her feet, and then her toes. On the upper half the first thing to stop moving is her arms, then her hands, and then her fingers. When all of those are quiet, she closes her eyes, sucks her fingers, and then her breathing gets deeper and deeper as she drifts off to dreamland.
Kids are awesome! Even when the go "jekyll and hyde" on you as you try to get them in and out of the bath and in to their PJs. I highly recommend having a few kids in your life, but be sure to wait until the time is right.
Grace&Peace
It is quite interesting that her sleep resonates out from her core. As she falls asleep the first thing that stops moving is her legs, then her feet, and then her toes. On the upper half the first thing to stop moving is her arms, then her hands, and then her fingers. When all of those are quiet, she closes her eyes, sucks her fingers, and then her breathing gets deeper and deeper as she drifts off to dreamland.
Kids are awesome! Even when the go "jekyll and hyde" on you as you try to get them in and out of the bath and in to their PJs. I highly recommend having a few kids in your life, but be sure to wait until the time is right.
Grace&Peace
Undignified Worship
2 Samuel 6.22a says:
David was dancing for joy as he brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. David was so passionate about God's presence returning to his hometown, that he was willing to humiliate himself - and he didn't care! He was willing to praise God without a thought to self-consciousness. He love to praise, sing, and dance so much that he not only didn't care what he looked like, he didn't care who saw him or what they thought of his dancing. David was willing to be 'even more undignified' in order to praise God with all his heart.
How often to we as Christians reign in our enthusiasm for Jesus? How often are we afraid to speak, sing, or scream for Jesus? Why do we cower to the 'standard of decent behavior' in order to fit in or not stand out? When we have such a great message to proclaim, why do we keep our mouths shut and our praise 'dignified'?
I want to be like David. I want to be so unashamed of what God has done for me that I am willing to embarrass myself for the sake of the gospel!
Jesus, you lived a life that changed so many people. Help me to express the depth of change in my life with worship that honors you and humiliates me. Amen.
Thank you God, for bringing this passage before me in light of the conversation that Kris, Alan, and I had yesterday!
Grace&Peace
I will become even more undignified than this, I will be humiliated in my own eyes. (TNIV)
David was dancing for joy as he brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. David was so passionate about God's presence returning to his hometown, that he was willing to humiliate himself - and he didn't care! He was willing to praise God without a thought to self-consciousness. He love to praise, sing, and dance so much that he not only didn't care what he looked like, he didn't care who saw him or what they thought of his dancing. David was willing to be 'even more undignified' in order to praise God with all his heart.
How often to we as Christians reign in our enthusiasm for Jesus? How often are we afraid to speak, sing, or scream for Jesus? Why do we cower to the 'standard of decent behavior' in order to fit in or not stand out? When we have such a great message to proclaim, why do we keep our mouths shut and our praise 'dignified'?
I want to be like David. I want to be so unashamed of what God has done for me that I am willing to embarrass myself for the sake of the gospel!
Jesus, you lived a life that changed so many people. Help me to express the depth of change in my life with worship that honors you and humiliates me. Amen.
Thank you God, for bringing this passage before me in light of the conversation that Kris, Alan, and I had yesterday!
Grace&Peace
29 April 2007
Sunday Reflections
Update: After some very exciting proposals from Jim, this rant is no longer necessary. Isn't it cool how God makes things fall into place? More on that later.
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
The Notebook
I may have to reclaim my title of "token woman" (don't ask) after writing this, but I just have to say that Deb and I watched "The Notebook" for the first time last night and it was a good movie. I was drawn into the story and I wanted the main characters to work out in the end. I know, I know...it's a chick flick, but it was a good story and I am always up for a good story.
Ok, I think I will post about the NFL draft or something like that tomorrow...
Grace&Peace
Ok, I think I will post about the NFL draft or something like that tomorrow...
Grace&Peace
27 April 2007
Perry's Passion
I just read this post from Perry Noble and I felt that I must share it with you. His passion for those who don't know Jesus is so obvious.
God, I pray that you continue to stoke the passion your Spirit has lit inside Perry. I pray that you continue to work thru him as he reaches out to the people of Anderson, SC. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Grace&Peace
God, I pray that you continue to stoke the passion your Spirit has lit inside Perry. I pray that you continue to work thru him as he reaches out to the people of Anderson, SC. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Grace&Peace
25 April 2007
Lunches That Make You Go Wow
Today I had lunch with a member of our church and I was reminded of the amazing way that God brings people into our lives in order to make his plans work.
I went to the restaurant thinking that I was meeting a woman, but it turned out that Kerry is a dual-gender name (I should have known that, but it didn't click for some reason). So I had lunch with Kerry and found out that he used to be a pastor in the Baptist church, but through a series of events, left the pastorate, left the Baptist church, and joined our UM church (interesting story).
So we were talking about him becoming part of our Missions Committee and what he could bring to the table. About halfway through his story, it became clear to me that he had at least three undeniable things to offer our Team:
1) Love for the Church
2) Passion for those outside the Church
3) Leadership thinking (another 30,000-ft thinker!)
Our conversation went great and he is going to pray about joining our efforts. I walked away from the meeting reflecting on one thing: he had called his wife before meeting with me and told her that he was going to have lunch with me just to get to know me better, but he wasn't all that interested in being on the Team, but he told me that by the end of our lunch he was very excited about the possibility of serving on the Team to set direction and leadership for the Missions here at Trietsch. Praise God!
Grace&Peace
I went to the restaurant thinking that I was meeting a woman, but it turned out that Kerry is a dual-gender name (I should have known that, but it didn't click for some reason). So I had lunch with Kerry and found out that he used to be a pastor in the Baptist church, but through a series of events, left the pastorate, left the Baptist church, and joined our UM church (interesting story).
So we were talking about him becoming part of our Missions Committee and what he could bring to the table. About halfway through his story, it became clear to me that he had at least three undeniable things to offer our Team:
1) Love for the Church
2) Passion for those outside the Church
3) Leadership thinking (another 30,000-ft thinker!)
Our conversation went great and he is going to pray about joining our efforts. I walked away from the meeting reflecting on one thing: he had called his wife before meeting with me and told her that he was going to have lunch with me just to get to know me better, but he wasn't all that interested in being on the Team, but he told me that by the end of our lunch he was very excited about the possibility of serving on the Team to set direction and leadership for the Missions here at Trietsch. Praise God!
Grace&Peace
24 April 2007
Recon Work Today
I was invited to go down and visit with the worship staffs of Highland Park UMC today and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with them and touring the facility. Paul Rasmussen (a buddy of mine) leads their Cornerstone service and I can only say that he has done a phenomenal job of growing that community into a vibrant body of Christ followers.
I pray that I can have the opportunity to preach in a contemporary setting where, as the pastor for that worshipping community, I get free reign to make it whatever the community wants it to be.
Thanks HP for raising the bar on excellence in worship!
Grace&Peace
I pray that I can have the opportunity to preach in a contemporary setting where, as the pastor for that worshipping community, I get free reign to make it whatever the community wants it to be.
Thanks HP for raising the bar on excellence in worship!
Grace&Peace
23 April 2007
Quick Commentary on some UM Polity
As part of the structure of the United Methodist system, every four years Methodists from across the globe elect delegates (both lay and clergy) to attend General Conference. The next GC will be in Ft. Worth, TX in May 2008. During the year prior to GC, candidates who wish to be elected to GC "campaign" for their election, speak to various groups on different issues, and do some general "shakin' hands and kissin' babies" in an attempt to garner support.
In that light, I read two articles this morning about proposals for changing the way delegates are elected to GC. One of them (scroll to page 4) was written by a pastor that I used to work for and the other was written by I guy I have never met. I ask you to read both of them before continuing on with my comments as my thoughts will probably only make sense in light of what the authors said.
Gary (my former boss) acknowledges the politicizing of the elections, but is "convinced that the political process is the best way for those of us who are sinful creatures to order our collective life." He offers six suggestions for 'new ways' of approaching the elections held each quadrennium. His suggestions (posed as questions) made me stop and think about what I will be participating in (as a voting member of the Annual Conference) this June. I especially appreciate ways #1, 2, and 6 because they lead each voter to ask critical questions that supercede personal agendas, seek to dialogue with those who hold opposing view points (for growth and deeper understanding, not conflict), and personal responsibility for each vote we cast. He closes with this thought:
Eric (never met him) believes that the whole electoral system is in desperate need of repair. He says, "The present system of electing delegates to our General Conferences has degenerated to the point that little distinguishes it from the political processes in secular society." He further believes that some candidates are saying whatever they need to say to curry favor with whatever audience with which they are speaking. His proposal for reform includes asking each voter to consider two questions: 1)"What is my stake in this election?" and 2)"What would God call our denomination to do, and what leadership skills will it take to achieve it?" He further proposes that any candidate for GC have a proven track record of leadership ability in their local church. He closes his article by saying, "By achieving unity in doing, maybe we can find a renewed unity and purpose in being the Body of Christ."
Here are some of my thoughts...
I tend to agree that the political nature of our electoral system can lead to manipulation and lower-functioning as a whole denomination. From what I have heard about the electoral process, it is more about who has the most friends (or who is most charismatic or appealing) that gets elected, rather than the person who is going to speak for the whole church on important issues in our denomination.
I am going to do whatever it takes to inform myself about each candidate for GC because I feel that that is the only way that I can vote responsibly and in a God-honoring way. I know that it will be hard, but I am willing to have difficult conversations with people who differ from me theological, socially, racially, and ethnically in order to understand them better. I really feel that I must honor my calling to ministry by conducting myself in that manner.
I hope that others will follow suit, but if not, at least I will have done my best. I look forward to blogging about the whole process in June...perhaps even while it is going on (if the laptop is up and running).
What are your thoughts?
Grace&Peace
In that light, I read two articles this morning about proposals for changing the way delegates are elected to GC. One of them (scroll to page 4) was written by a pastor that I used to work for and the other was written by I guy I have never met. I ask you to read both of them before continuing on with my comments as my thoughts will probably only make sense in light of what the authors said.
Gary (my former boss) acknowledges the politicizing of the elections, but is "convinced that the political process is the best way for those of us who are sinful creatures to order our collective life." He offers six suggestions for 'new ways' of approaching the elections held each quadrennium. His suggestions (posed as questions) made me stop and think about what I will be participating in (as a voting member of the Annual Conference) this June. I especially appreciate ways #1, 2, and 6 because they lead each voter to ask critical questions that supercede personal agendas, seek to dialogue with those who hold opposing view points (for growth and deeper understanding, not conflict), and personal responsibility for each vote we cast. He closes with this thought:
If, when all is said and done, we actually are willing to do things in a new way, I think we will be delighted at the outstanding leaders of different ages, theological perspectives, genders and places of ministry who emerge. Even more importantly, we will be amazed at the difference it makes in the United Methodist Church as we live out our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
Eric (never met him) believes that the whole electoral system is in desperate need of repair. He says, "The present system of electing delegates to our General Conferences has degenerated to the point that little distinguishes it from the political processes in secular society." He further believes that some candidates are saying whatever they need to say to curry favor with whatever audience with which they are speaking. His proposal for reform includes asking each voter to consider two questions: 1)"What is my stake in this election?" and 2)"What would God call our denomination to do, and what leadership skills will it take to achieve it?" He further proposes that any candidate for GC have a proven track record of leadership ability in their local church. He closes his article by saying, "By achieving unity in doing, maybe we can find a renewed unity and purpose in being the Body of Christ."
Here are some of my thoughts...
I tend to agree that the political nature of our electoral system can lead to manipulation and lower-functioning as a whole denomination. From what I have heard about the electoral process, it is more about who has the most friends (or who is most charismatic or appealing) that gets elected, rather than the person who is going to speak for the whole church on important issues in our denomination.
I am going to do whatever it takes to inform myself about each candidate for GC because I feel that that is the only way that I can vote responsibly and in a God-honoring way. I know that it will be hard, but I am willing to have difficult conversations with people who differ from me theological, socially, racially, and ethnically in order to understand them better. I really feel that I must honor my calling to ministry by conducting myself in that manner.
I hope that others will follow suit, but if not, at least I will have done my best. I look forward to blogging about the whole process in June...perhaps even while it is going on (if the laptop is up and running).
What are your thoughts?
Grace&Peace
17 April 2007
Much Needed Updates - Holy Week
Sorry for the long absence from the blogosphere...the week after Easter was a little crazier than I had anticipated...and this week is shaping up to be much of the same.
Ok...Holy Week:
Maundy Thursday was very cool once again this year. We did the whole experiential worship with 4 different stations. We had communion in tables of 12 (one of which I led). We had journaling stations (one with pen and paper and one with blogging (complete with new Trietsch blog - be sure to read the comments/prayer requests in the comment section of the Maundy Thursday post). We had candles for prayer requests and answered prayers. And we had a foot-washing station. Overall, this was a very cool way to remember Christ's last meal with his disciples.
Good Friday service brought us back to the reality of Christ's death. The Schubert Mass was both poignant and uplifting. And eventho it was all in Latin, the words went deep into my soul. As the altar was stripped of paraments and decorations, the finality of death really hit home. The complete darkness at the conclusion of the passion narrative brought chills and hammering a nail into the cross made me shudder because I realized once again what my sins did to my Lord. Powerful stuff!
Easter morning was fantastic! I was liturgist during the contemporary services and the attitudes were great and the air was electric! That's the best way that I can describe it. God was working in that place like we have never seen before. All the preparation we did...all the worrying we did over the weather...all the fretting about how many chairs were set up...all that went away when the sun came out and we knew that the Son had risen indeed. It was awesome! Praise God!
Grace&Peace
Ok...Holy Week:
Maundy Thursday was very cool once again this year. We did the whole experiential worship with 4 different stations. We had communion in tables of 12 (one of which I led). We had journaling stations (one with pen and paper and one with blogging (complete with new Trietsch blog - be sure to read the comments/prayer requests in the comment section of the Maundy Thursday post). We had candles for prayer requests and answered prayers. And we had a foot-washing station. Overall, this was a very cool way to remember Christ's last meal with his disciples.
Good Friday service brought us back to the reality of Christ's death. The Schubert Mass was both poignant and uplifting. And eventho it was all in Latin, the words went deep into my soul. As the altar was stripped of paraments and decorations, the finality of death really hit home. The complete darkness at the conclusion of the passion narrative brought chills and hammering a nail into the cross made me shudder because I realized once again what my sins did to my Lord. Powerful stuff!
Easter morning was fantastic! I was liturgist during the contemporary services and the attitudes were great and the air was electric! That's the best way that I can describe it. God was working in that place like we have never seen before. All the preparation we did...all the worrying we did over the weather...all the fretting about how many chairs were set up...all that went away when the sun came out and we knew that the Son had risen indeed. It was awesome! Praise God!
Grace&Peace
28 March 2007
New Layout
Over the past few months I have increasingly felt weird about having a blog called "the gospel according to me" so I spent some time today changing the look and feel of my blog. What do you think?
I wanted to promote more discussion on this site, so I hope that the redesign will help promote that.
Grace&Peace
I wanted to promote more discussion on this site, so I hope that the redesign will help promote that.
Grace&Peace
"Going Toward the Moon"
I just talked with the chair of Missions here at Trietsch and she made an interesting point about the progress we are making in reconfiguring the Missions Committee: "We are going toward the moon like the space shuttle does upon take off...a little correction to the right...a little correction to the left..., but we are making progress in our journey toward the moon."
I had not heard about the in-air corrections that the shuttle must make as it leaves earth's atmosphere, but I thought the image was quite appropriate for our journey to reinvent what Missions is about....a little correction here, a little correction there, but a general path toward the moon. We have our goal in focus and the bumps and blocks along the way will not keep us from getting to the moon. We cast the vision and we will see it thru to completion. We will make mid-air corrections and live with the difficulties of doing ministry enmeshed in the human condition.
We're going toward the moon...with God's help we are going toward the moon!
Grace&Peace
I had not heard about the in-air corrections that the shuttle must make as it leaves earth's atmosphere, but I thought the image was quite appropriate for our journey to reinvent what Missions is about....a little correction here, a little correction there, but a general path toward the moon. We have our goal in focus and the bumps and blocks along the way will not keep us from getting to the moon. We cast the vision and we will see it thru to completion. We will make mid-air corrections and live with the difficulties of doing ministry enmeshed in the human condition.
We're going toward the moon...with God's help we are going toward the moon!
Grace&Peace
Wives: The Voice of God
Have you ever wondered why it is often difficult to hear from God in a real and tangible way? Perhaps it is because you are not listening to your wife. (If you are a woman, then please note that this post will likely boost your ego and solidify the case you've been arguing with your husband.)
Last night Deb and I had a great conversation surrounding our answers to one question posed by my Lay Ministry Committee: "What are the three biggest things you (Dean) need to work on in order to feel ready to handle your own church?"
Our answers were at opposite ends of the spectrum - or should I say opposite heights of the atmosphere. My answers were very "task-oriented" and focused more on skills and experiences I need to have before feeling comfortable as the solo pastor in a church.
Debbie's answers were more at the "30,000 foot" level and focused more on leadership and vision casting.
See the difference! What an amazing wife God has blessed me with! I have lots of work to do!! I think she correctly identified my weaknesses in leadership. I think I have potential to succeed in those areas and be a real leader, but it will take focused energy and constant work to make it happen.
For those of you who are pastors: How would you answer the question posed by my Lay Ministry Committee? How would your spouse answer? Give it a try and see what happens!
Jesus, you provided me with a wonderful partner for my life and I thank you for her. She challenges and stretches me each day, and I love her for that. Help me to return the favor with some high-level thinking. Amen.
Grace&Peace
Last night Deb and I had a great conversation surrounding our answers to one question posed by my Lay Ministry Committee: "What are the three biggest things you (Dean) need to work on in order to feel ready to handle your own church?"
Our answers were at opposite ends of the spectrum - or should I say opposite heights of the atmosphere. My answers were very "task-oriented" and focused more on skills and experiences I need to have before feeling comfortable as the solo pastor in a church.
1) Learn more about the high-level committees in the UM system (SPRC, Trustees, and Finance)
2) Get more preaching experience
3) Work on the social skill of small talk - both on the phone and in person
Debbie's answers were more at the "30,000 foot" level and focused more on leadership and vision casting.
1) More consistently think "big picture" and how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together in the church (from worship to preaching to education to missions, etc.)
2) Be fully convinced of the vision God has given me for the church (thus being able to clearly communicate that vision to others)
3) Practice financial acumen in all areas of my life by making wise spending choices (personally and in the church)
See the difference! What an amazing wife God has blessed me with! I have lots of work to do!! I think she correctly identified my weaknesses in leadership. I think I have potential to succeed in those areas and be a real leader, but it will take focused energy and constant work to make it happen.
For those of you who are pastors: How would you answer the question posed by my Lay Ministry Committee? How would your spouse answer? Give it a try and see what happens!
Jesus, you provided me with a wonderful partner for my life and I thank you for her. She challenges and stretches me each day, and I love her for that. Help me to return the favor with some high-level thinking. Amen.
Grace&Peace
22 March 2007
I just love what Perry Noble has to say each time I read his blog. I think I need to make plans to attend the Unleash Conference in '08 after reading all the great things about the '07 one and a trip to his church wouldn't be a bad idea either.
Finishing well is an important job for all leaders...especially church leaders. Read Perry's thoughts here.
Grace&Peace
Finishing well is an important job for all leaders...especially church leaders. Read Perry's thoughts here.
Grace&Peace
Cleaning Ears and Facing Fears
Last night I spent a few strained minutes trying to clean out Caitlyn's right ear because it was draining thru her tube. As she kicked, cried, and squirmed I tried to use the safety Q-tips to clean out the gunk. After successfully cleaning out the canal, a thought occured to me...
How often do we kick, cry, and squirm as God cleans up the messes that we make? How many times do we make a big stink about God disciplining us (for no good reason)? Aren't we better off after the cleaning?
Then this morning I read another chapter in In a Pit and found Mark's take on facing fears quite refreshing. I remember a time when a project I was working on failed miserably and I was fearful of going to my senior pastor to talk with him about it. I was literally shaking. When I finally mustered up the courage (two days later) to talk to him, he was understanding about the whole thing and told me that I had just learned a very valuable lesson. Mark said it this way, "Your fear is worse than the actual thing you're afraid of. And if you learn from every mistake, then there is no such thing as failure anyway."
Thank you God, for the times when all I can do is face my fears and come out ahead on the other side. Thank you for cleaning me up when I gunk up my life. And thanks for putting up with my kicking and crying as you disciple me. Amen.
Grace&Peace
How often do we kick, cry, and squirm as God cleans up the messes that we make? How many times do we make a big stink about God disciplining us (for no good reason)? Aren't we better off after the cleaning?
Then this morning I read another chapter in In a Pit and found Mark's take on facing fears quite refreshing. I remember a time when a project I was working on failed miserably and I was fearful of going to my senior pastor to talk with him about it. I was literally shaking. When I finally mustered up the courage (two days later) to talk to him, he was understanding about the whole thing and told me that I had just learned a very valuable lesson. Mark said it this way, "Your fear is worse than the actual thing you're afraid of. And if you learn from every mistake, then there is no such thing as failure anyway."
Thank you God, for the times when all I can do is face my fears and come out ahead on the other side. Thank you for cleaning me up when I gunk up my life. And thanks for putting up with my kicking and crying as you disciple me. Amen.
Grace&Peace
21 March 2007
Paul, Benaiah, and Leadership
I was reading 1 Corinthians 6 this morning and I asked these questions:
Why do we have such a hard time being satisfied in God? What makes us want more of what we already have enough of? Why do we look past God's provisions for what we think we need?
Then I read chapter 2, "The Odd Thing About Odds" in In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson and came across these thoughts:
*Lion chasers know God is bigger and more powerful than any problem they face in this world....That is how God reveals his glory - and how He blesses you in ways you never could have imagined.
*God has no dimensional limitations, and if we could wrap our minds around that truth, it would transform our outlook on life.
*Maybe it's time to stop creating God in your image and let Him create you in His. The more we grow, the bigger God should get. And the bigger God gets, the smaller our lions will become.
*God wants you to get where God wants you to go more than you want to get where God wants you to go.
*Lion chasers aren't afraid of doing something that seems ridiculous to others - because they know anything is possible with God.
Although my questions came from Paul's dialogue about sexual immorality and Mark's thoughts spring from Benaiah's tussle with a lion, my mind makes a connection between the two. Both concern our connection with God and how well we are keeping that connection healthy. Paul wants the Corinthians to know that those who are united with the Lord are one with him in spirit (6.17) and no longer need to look elsewhere for fulfillment, affirmation, or encouragement. Mark draws the conclusion that when we believe in God, we should believe that our God is big enough to defy any odds and defeat any lions.
So where are you seeking fulfillment and acceptance? What lions have you told God are too big for him to handle? Why?
I know that as a pastor I want the people in my church to like me and to think that my teaching is good, but then I read Paul's words and wonder why I don't trust God to be everything that I need. As a husband and father I want to be an asset in my household, not a liability, and I wonder how I could get a better grip on the priorities of my life.
Three "lions" in my life: preaching relevant, thought-provoking sermons; connecting with non-Christian 20-somethings; and balancing time for family and work.
As I spend time leading and as I study leadership, I am continually amazed at the amount of personal reflection I need to do along the way. I have to remind myself that I am nowhere near an expert on the subject (nor do I pretend to be), but I do want to pass along the things I am learning. But to do that I must process what I read thru my contextual lenses in order to successfully and coherently pass along the great wealth of information available. Leadership is never the same from one day to the next and that means I will always have something to read, learn, and digest. Praise be to God!
Grace&Peace
PS - If you don't own a copy of In a Pit, get one HERE!
Why do we have such a hard time being satisfied in God? What makes us want more of what we already have enough of? Why do we look past God's provisions for what we think we need?
Then I read chapter 2, "The Odd Thing About Odds" in In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson and came across these thoughts:
*Lion chasers know God is bigger and more powerful than any problem they face in this world....That is how God reveals his glory - and how He blesses you in ways you never could have imagined.
*God has no dimensional limitations, and if we could wrap our minds around that truth, it would transform our outlook on life.
*Maybe it's time to stop creating God in your image and let Him create you in His. The more we grow, the bigger God should get. And the bigger God gets, the smaller our lions will become.
*God wants you to get where God wants you to go more than you want to get where God wants you to go.
*Lion chasers aren't afraid of doing something that seems ridiculous to others - because they know anything is possible with God.
Although my questions came from Paul's dialogue about sexual immorality and Mark's thoughts spring from Benaiah's tussle with a lion, my mind makes a connection between the two. Both concern our connection with God and how well we are keeping that connection healthy. Paul wants the Corinthians to know that those who are united with the Lord are one with him in spirit (6.17) and no longer need to look elsewhere for fulfillment, affirmation, or encouragement. Mark draws the conclusion that when we believe in God, we should believe that our God is big enough to defy any odds and defeat any lions.
So where are you seeking fulfillment and acceptance? What lions have you told God are too big for him to handle? Why?
I know that as a pastor I want the people in my church to like me and to think that my teaching is good, but then I read Paul's words and wonder why I don't trust God to be everything that I need. As a husband and father I want to be an asset in my household, not a liability, and I wonder how I could get a better grip on the priorities of my life.
Three "lions" in my life: preaching relevant, thought-provoking sermons; connecting with non-Christian 20-somethings; and balancing time for family and work.
As I spend time leading and as I study leadership, I am continually amazed at the amount of personal reflection I need to do along the way. I have to remind myself that I am nowhere near an expert on the subject (nor do I pretend to be), but I do want to pass along the things I am learning. But to do that I must process what I read thru my contextual lenses in order to successfully and coherently pass along the great wealth of information available. Leadership is never the same from one day to the next and that means I will always have something to read, learn, and digest. Praise be to God!
Grace&Peace
PS - If you don't own a copy of In a Pit, get one HERE!
Weekend
Ok, so this post didn't exactly happen as promised, but it is here nonetheless.
Deb and I had a great weekend visiting friends and family in Austin and San Antonio, but like always, the trip was too short.
On Friday we left early in the morning and stopped in Austin to visit Caitlyn's godparents, Rachel and Morgan. We enjoyed catching up with them, seeing Caitlyn play with their daughter, Haley, and eating a great lunch. We headed from there to Deb' folks house (where we always stay) for the rest of the weekend.
On Saturday morning we drove to the other side of SA to visit Holly, Tres, and Bella. Deb and Holly have been friends since kindergarten and it is always fun to reconnect with them. When we got back to my in-law's, Debbie's brother Mark was there. We watched the Aggies beat Louisville to advance to the Sweet 16 - Whoop!
Sunday took us to mass at my in-law's church, then to Target (for my first cup of coffee all weekend), and then to Alamo Cafe for lunch. I spent the rest of the day working a "challenger" sudoku and the NYT crossword puzzle (I finished the sudoku, but not the crossword).
We headed out about 9:30 on Monday morning and arrived safely back in Dallas in the early afternoon. All in all it was a great trip. I sure wish Caitlyn would have coughed a little less and slept a little more in the car, but such is life.
BTW, we purchased a portable DVD player for the Highlander to take on trips such as this. I must say that it was definitely a good purchase (not to Caitlyn just yet, but for Deb and I...Caitlyn will grow to like it, she just does not have the attention span for it yet).
Well, that's our weekend. Now I think I would like to post something on leadership.
Grace&Peace
Deb and I had a great weekend visiting friends and family in Austin and San Antonio, but like always, the trip was too short.
On Friday we left early in the morning and stopped in Austin to visit Caitlyn's godparents, Rachel and Morgan. We enjoyed catching up with them, seeing Caitlyn play with their daughter, Haley, and eating a great lunch. We headed from there to Deb' folks house (where we always stay) for the rest of the weekend.
On Saturday morning we drove to the other side of SA to visit Holly, Tres, and Bella. Deb and Holly have been friends since kindergarten and it is always fun to reconnect with them. When we got back to my in-law's, Debbie's brother Mark was there. We watched the Aggies beat Louisville to advance to the Sweet 16 - Whoop!
Sunday took us to mass at my in-law's church, then to Target (for my first cup of coffee all weekend), and then to Alamo Cafe for lunch. I spent the rest of the day working a "challenger" sudoku and the NYT crossword puzzle (I finished the sudoku, but not the crossword).
We headed out about 9:30 on Monday morning and arrived safely back in Dallas in the early afternoon. All in all it was a great trip. I sure wish Caitlyn would have coughed a little less and slept a little more in the car, but such is life.
BTW, we purchased a portable DVD player for the Highlander to take on trips such as this. I must say that it was definitely a good purchase (not to Caitlyn just yet, but for Deb and I...Caitlyn will grow to like it, she just does not have the attention span for it yet).
Well, that's our weekend. Now I think I would like to post something on leadership.
Grace&Peace
20 March 2007
Updates Coming Soon
I know, I know...I haven't been as faitful to blogging as I should be, but with my out of town trip this weekend I have lots of good stuff to talk about. Look for a post this afternoon.
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
14 March 2007
Things You Should Read
Thanks to Bloglines I can now keep up with a dozen or so blogs that I follow with relative ease (one in particular is a blogging fiend and requires multiple checks in a single day). And because I can keep posts for later reading, I have a nice collection of posts that have been especially meaningful for me. Enjoy!
Perry Noble discussing the potential just waiting to be unleashed inside the church and the challenge to face problems head on.
Mark Batterson discussing how to avoid the revolving door of meetings and the great asset that churches can be to one another.
Tim Stevens' take on time management.
Grace&Peace
Perry Noble discussing the potential just waiting to be unleashed inside the church and the challenge to face problems head on.
Mark Batterson discussing how to avoid the revolving door of meetings and the great asset that churches can be to one another.
Tim Stevens' take on time management.
Grace&Peace
08 March 2007
Similarities Unite
I am really enjoying what God is revealing to me in my study times. Here's another I would like for you to reflect upon.
"It is not because of your righteousness or your integrity that you are going in to take possession of their land; but on account of the wickedness of these nations, the Lord your God will drive them out before you..." (Deuteronomy 9.5, TNIV)
As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, Moses takes the time to recount what God has done for them since they left Egypt (the book of Deuteronomy). Along the way he encourages them to remember that it is God's faithfulness - not theirs - and God's righteousness - not theirs - and God's integrity - not theirs - which is providing them with the land. God tells Moses to remind them because they are prone to forget, just as most humans are.
I believe Christians have many things in common with the Israelites:
(1) We often get caught up in the blessings and forget the blesser
(2) We often get caught up in the struggles and forget the one who releases us from struggles
(3) We fear the unknown
(4) We are slow to take action
(5) We forget to rely on God's power and lean on our own instead
These commonalities get lost in the shift from OT reading to NT reading, but they are there and must be recognized as a blessing, not a stumbling block. When Christians and Jews realize that often we have more in common than we have historically paid attention to, there is great freedom that can enter the picture.
I need to empower people in my congregation to engage in acts of healing and aid with members of the Jewish community - not for evangelistic reasons, but because we serve the same God. A God who wants his children to work together to provide solutions to global issues.
Creator God, you care for all humanity - let's start acting like it in our community, neighborhood, and world. Help me to work outside conventional boundaries to make a difference in the world. Amen.
Grace&Peace
"It is not because of your righteousness or your integrity that you are going in to take possession of their land; but on account of the wickedness of these nations, the Lord your God will drive them out before you..." (Deuteronomy 9.5, TNIV)
As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, Moses takes the time to recount what God has done for them since they left Egypt (the book of Deuteronomy). Along the way he encourages them to remember that it is God's faithfulness - not theirs - and God's righteousness - not theirs - and God's integrity - not theirs - which is providing them with the land. God tells Moses to remind them because they are prone to forget, just as most humans are.
I believe Christians have many things in common with the Israelites:
(1) We often get caught up in the blessings and forget the blesser
(2) We often get caught up in the struggles and forget the one who releases us from struggles
(3) We fear the unknown
(4) We are slow to take action
(5) We forget to rely on God's power and lean on our own instead
These commonalities get lost in the shift from OT reading to NT reading, but they are there and must be recognized as a blessing, not a stumbling block. When Christians and Jews realize that often we have more in common than we have historically paid attention to, there is great freedom that can enter the picture.
I need to empower people in my congregation to engage in acts of healing and aid with members of the Jewish community - not for evangelistic reasons, but because we serve the same God. A God who wants his children to work together to provide solutions to global issues.
Creator God, you care for all humanity - let's start acting like it in our community, neighborhood, and world. Help me to work outside conventional boundaries to make a difference in the world. Amen.
Grace&Peace
05 March 2007
New Awareness
I spent some time today researching what is going on in Darfur, with prisoners, and in the global fight against AIDS. I had no idea what injustices were happening across the globe and what little hope some people are forced to live with.
Jesus, I repent of my ignorance. I can no longer live as a responsible Christian without doing something to help care for those whom you love and died for. Engage me with efforts that are beneficial to those who are in the deepest need.
Grace&Peace
Jesus, I repent of my ignorance. I can no longer live as a responsible Christian without doing something to help care for those whom you love and died for. Engage me with efforts that are beneficial to those who are in the deepest need.
Grace&Peace
27 February 2007
Don't be Impotent
Perry Noble is pastor of NewSpring Church in South Carolina and I have recently begun to follow his blog and his ideas, this post is one of the reasons that I am ready to hear more of what he has to say. Thanks for bringing it, Perry!
Also check out Tony Morgan's synopsis of Perry's talk at a recent conference.
Grace&Peace
Also check out Tony Morgan's synopsis of Perry's talk at a recent conference.
Grace&Peace
14 February 2007
Can Denominational Churches be Relevant?
As Willowcreek prepares for this year's Leadership Summit, they invited the host site pastors to spend some time with each of the speakers that will be featured during the 2.5 day event. Tim Stevens has a great synopsis of some comments made by Bill Hybels and John and Nancy Ortberg.
I wanted to draw your attention to one thing that John Ortberg said: "Leaders want three things...Freedom, Opportunity and Challenge. They want these three things way more than money or security. However, deonominations are set up to repel leaders."
John serves a Presbyterian church in California, so he knows about denominations. I serve a United Methodist church in Texas, and I know a little about the power that denominational structures have to quell creativity and experimenting. Can the UMC crawl out from under that structure to make a meaningful impact on the kingdom of God? Can we be both relevant and faithful to our denominational heritage? Or are we doomed to be enslaved to the system that keeps things the same?
NB - Trietsch is not a typical UMC, so most of the previous rant about the UMC does not apply to my current appointment.
I don't have all the answers, but I hope that the next 10-15 years of my ministry are creative, relevant, and transformational to a generation that despises organized religion and fake Christianity.
Grace&Peace
I wanted to draw your attention to one thing that John Ortberg said: "Leaders want three things...Freedom, Opportunity and Challenge. They want these three things way more than money or security. However, deonominations are set up to repel leaders."
John serves a Presbyterian church in California, so he knows about denominations. I serve a United Methodist church in Texas, and I know a little about the power that denominational structures have to quell creativity and experimenting. Can the UMC crawl out from under that structure to make a meaningful impact on the kingdom of God? Can we be both relevant and faithful to our denominational heritage? Or are we doomed to be enslaved to the system that keeps things the same?
NB - Trietsch is not a typical UMC, so most of the previous rant about the UMC does not apply to my current appointment.
I don't have all the answers, but I hope that the next 10-15 years of my ministry are creative, relevant, and transformational to a generation that despises organized religion and fake Christianity.
Grace&Peace
13 February 2007
February Staff Mission Project
This morning most of the Trietsch staff went down to CC Young to celebrate February birthdays and Valentine's Day with the residents. It was an amazing hour of serving those whom Christ loves dearly and the world often forgets.
As we served those beautiful people cookies, juice, crackers, and mixed nuts I wondered how I am going to live out the last years of my life. Will my children put me in a "home" to be forgotten? Will my family take me into their home so that I can live with them? How will I deal with the constant loss of life-long friends?
The residents at CC Young seemed happy and well taken care of and I am proud to have this facility as a part of the United Methodist connectional system. I even met the grandmother-in-law of one of the elders in our conference. Louise was such a great woman to talk to and I promised her that I would say hello to Kathleen for her. I know that you will probably never read this Louise, but I am very glad to have met you and to make a connection with you thru Kathleen - God's peace be with you Louise!
Well, our team has been charged with the April Mission Project, so I hope we head to Starbucks soon to begin planning! Especially after reading Mark's post about his recent trip to the drive-thru!
Grace&Peace
If you would like to support CC Young financially, click here. If you would just like to find out more about the facility, click here.
As we served those beautiful people cookies, juice, crackers, and mixed nuts I wondered how I am going to live out the last years of my life. Will my children put me in a "home" to be forgotten? Will my family take me into their home so that I can live with them? How will I deal with the constant loss of life-long friends?
The residents at CC Young seemed happy and well taken care of and I am proud to have this facility as a part of the United Methodist connectional system. I even met the grandmother-in-law of one of the elders in our conference. Louise was such a great woman to talk to and I promised her that I would say hello to Kathleen for her. I know that you will probably never read this Louise, but I am very glad to have met you and to make a connection with you thru Kathleen - God's peace be with you Louise!
Well, our team has been charged with the April Mission Project, so I hope we head to Starbucks soon to begin planning! Especially after reading Mark's post about his recent trip to the drive-thru!
Grace&Peace
If you would like to support CC Young financially, click here. If you would just like to find out more about the facility, click here.
12 February 2007
Eradicate Poverty
Today I met with a small group of college students at the Denton Wesley Foundation to talk about Tony Campolo's new book, Everybody Wants to Change the World. My devotional time this morning brought this verse and these thoughts. Praise God!
"Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God." (Lev 19.10, TNIV)
When did profit become more important than protecting humanity? When did making a buck begin to supercede saving a life? It seems that God's provisions and instructions are clear enough so that we can create a sustainable economy.
Why did we stop caring for the less fortunate? Why does it take a government program to feed people in this country when the body of Christ should be on the front lines? If we all just followed the guidelines set out for a healthy world, then hungry people would be fed, sick people would get medicine, and homeless people would have a roof to call their own.
This doesn't seem all that hard. I can go without a $4 mocha each week. I can buy smaller portions of food. I can cook more meals at home. I can do my part to share what I have been blessed with in order to bless those who have not. If every Christian consciously took the time to understand more about what we can do to combat poverty, then we could make major changes around the world.
I need to preach this message to as many people as possible. I need to make sure that those around me are consciously aware of what they can do to combat poverty in our world, our neighborhoods, and across the globe.
Jesus, you love everyone - even those who have too much. I pray that you can take this spark and fan it into a flame that spreads throughout the Christian church. We, as Christians, need to respond to the plight of the poor with dollars, bodies, and fresh ideas - give us those resources O God, and allow us to spread you love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
"Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the Lord your God." (Lev 19.10, TNIV)
When did profit become more important than protecting humanity? When did making a buck begin to supercede saving a life? It seems that God's provisions and instructions are clear enough so that we can create a sustainable economy.
Why did we stop caring for the less fortunate? Why does it take a government program to feed people in this country when the body of Christ should be on the front lines? If we all just followed the guidelines set out for a healthy world, then hungry people would be fed, sick people would get medicine, and homeless people would have a roof to call their own.
This doesn't seem all that hard. I can go without a $4 mocha each week. I can buy smaller portions of food. I can cook more meals at home. I can do my part to share what I have been blessed with in order to bless those who have not. If every Christian consciously took the time to understand more about what we can do to combat poverty, then we could make major changes around the world.
I need to preach this message to as many people as possible. I need to make sure that those around me are consciously aware of what they can do to combat poverty in our world, our neighborhoods, and across the globe.
Jesus, you love everyone - even those who have too much. I pray that you can take this spark and fan it into a flame that spreads throughout the Christian church. We, as Christians, need to respond to the plight of the poor with dollars, bodies, and fresh ideas - give us those resources O God, and allow us to spread you love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
06 February 2007
Preaching on Sunday
I preached this weekend at one of Trietsch's sister churches, Chinn's Chapel UMC. It was quite a different experience from preaching at Trietsch because the crowd was smaller, the sanctuary was much smaller, and I didn't have to wear a lav or speak into a mic at all (that's how small their sanctuary is).
I preached about Jesus calling his first disciples in Luke's Gospel (ch 5) and how living in the deep water was the best way to make major strides for the kingdom of God on earth. As I was preaching, I realized that I was challenging a church of less than 100 people to reach out their new neighbors, whom they have been avoiding like the plague, with the message that God loves them and that they matter to God. I wondered how wise it was to issue such a challenge, but that's one of things about ministry - I have been called by God to push buttons, poke, prod, and stir the people of God as much as I can in the name of kingdom advancement. It's my mission. It's my calling. It's my goal.
I guess, deep down, there is this longing inside of me to want to see people who have been passive in their faith take a big step out of their comfort zone and make a difference for Jesus in our world. I really believe that Jesus did not call us to be consumers of Christianity, but to be investors in Christ. And part of making that investment, is turning what you start with into more ... taking what you are given and doing all you can with it ... I think I read that somewhere.
What big steps have you taken lately?
How are you living in the deep water?
Grace&Peace
I preached about Jesus calling his first disciples in Luke's Gospel (ch 5) and how living in the deep water was the best way to make major strides for the kingdom of God on earth. As I was preaching, I realized that I was challenging a church of less than 100 people to reach out their new neighbors, whom they have been avoiding like the plague, with the message that God loves them and that they matter to God. I wondered how wise it was to issue such a challenge, but that's one of things about ministry - I have been called by God to push buttons, poke, prod, and stir the people of God as much as I can in the name of kingdom advancement. It's my mission. It's my calling. It's my goal.
I guess, deep down, there is this longing inside of me to want to see people who have been passive in their faith take a big step out of their comfort zone and make a difference for Jesus in our world. I really believe that Jesus did not call us to be consumers of Christianity, but to be investors in Christ. And part of making that investment, is turning what you start with into more ... taking what you are given and doing all you can with it ... I think I read that somewhere.
What big steps have you taken lately?
How are you living in the deep water?
Grace&Peace
30 January 2007
Recent First Impressions
I wanted to share a few stories about some recent businesses I have worked with and how they made an impression on me.
Bickner Dance Floor Rentals
I used this company to rent a wooden dance floor for the Elevate Christmas party. I spoke with Jonathen Warren to set up the rental and met him in person because he delivered and installed the floor I rented. He was personable, friendly, timely, and shared some funny stories about other jobs he had worked.
Jonathen worked quickly and made sure that everything was just right before he left from installing the floor. He was prompt in returning to pick up the floor and his crew wasted no time getting the job done. Thanks Jonathen!
Chick-Fil-A on 407
I stopped by this Chick-Fil-A about a month ago because I needed to get out of the office and just be somewhere else for a change. I went and ordered a large lemonade and found a table where I could sit, read my Bible, pray, and journal. After being there for about 20 minutes or so, the girl who took my order walked around the lobby to clean tables, etc. and she offered to refill my drink without my prompting. I was caught a little off-guard, but agreed because I did indeed need more lemonade. She brought back my cup full of lemonade with a smile. About 20 minutes later, she came by again and offered me another refill with a smile.
I didn't catch the girl's name, but I know one of the managers over there, so I will try to find out from him. I am continually impressed at the level of quality service that Chick-Fil-A is dedicated to offer using teenagers and 20-somethings in their day-to-day operations. And I am doubly impressed that they still close on Sundays in order to provide their workers with the opportunity to worship and spend time with their families. Kudos!
Kwik Kar on Preston in Plano
One Saturday afternoon, Debbie, Caitlyn, and I were out running errands and my wife needed the oil changed in her Highlander. She had been to this Kwik Kar location previously and had a good experience, so we drove over there because it just happened to be on our way to another destination in our errand run. From the outside, everything looked like the typical Kwik Kar location, but once we stepped into the waiting area I knew this place was different.
The lobby had stone tile flooring, leather couches, glass top coffee tables, a massage chair, CURRENT magazines, a collection of antique model cars, flat screen TVs, and not a drop of oil anywhere. Debbie and I sat down with Caitlyn and immediately marveled at the attention to detail that the owners had placed on their lobby/waiting area. We struck up a conversation with a fellow patron about kids and families and how ignorant we all are about cars. We felt very relaxed and comfortable. Deb's car was ready to go before we knew it and we didn't even need to use a shower of anti-bacterial sanitizer upon exiting. Great job guys!
So, what places have made an impression on you lately?
Grace&Peace
Bickner Dance Floor Rentals
I used this company to rent a wooden dance floor for the Elevate Christmas party. I spoke with Jonathen Warren to set up the rental and met him in person because he delivered and installed the floor I rented. He was personable, friendly, timely, and shared some funny stories about other jobs he had worked.
Jonathen worked quickly and made sure that everything was just right before he left from installing the floor. He was prompt in returning to pick up the floor and his crew wasted no time getting the job done. Thanks Jonathen!
Chick-Fil-A on 407
I stopped by this Chick-Fil-A about a month ago because I needed to get out of the office and just be somewhere else for a change. I went and ordered a large lemonade and found a table where I could sit, read my Bible, pray, and journal. After being there for about 20 minutes or so, the girl who took my order walked around the lobby to clean tables, etc. and she offered to refill my drink without my prompting. I was caught a little off-guard, but agreed because I did indeed need more lemonade. She brought back my cup full of lemonade with a smile. About 20 minutes later, she came by again and offered me another refill with a smile.
I didn't catch the girl's name, but I know one of the managers over there, so I will try to find out from him. I am continually impressed at the level of quality service that Chick-Fil-A is dedicated to offer using teenagers and 20-somethings in their day-to-day operations. And I am doubly impressed that they still close on Sundays in order to provide their workers with the opportunity to worship and spend time with their families. Kudos!
Kwik Kar on Preston in Plano
One Saturday afternoon, Debbie, Caitlyn, and I were out running errands and my wife needed the oil changed in her Highlander. She had been to this Kwik Kar location previously and had a good experience, so we drove over there because it just happened to be on our way to another destination in our errand run. From the outside, everything looked like the typical Kwik Kar location, but once we stepped into the waiting area I knew this place was different.
The lobby had stone tile flooring, leather couches, glass top coffee tables, a massage chair, CURRENT magazines, a collection of antique model cars, flat screen TVs, and not a drop of oil anywhere. Debbie and I sat down with Caitlyn and immediately marveled at the attention to detail that the owners had placed on their lobby/waiting area. We struck up a conversation with a fellow patron about kids and families and how ignorant we all are about cars. We felt very relaxed and comfortable. Deb's car was ready to go before we knew it and we didn't even need to use a shower of anti-bacterial sanitizer upon exiting. Great job guys!
So, what places have made an impression on you lately?
Grace&Peace
Life in Ministry vs.(?) Family Life
Life in the ministry is tough. It's tough for the minister and it is tough for the family connected to the minister. Adam Hamilton (Senior Pastor of UM Church of the Resurrection) wrote a great article on thriving in the "fish bowl" of ministry. I lift it up to you today in order to encourage any ministers out there who need to remember that family time and ministry do not have to be mutually exclusive events.
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
18 January 2007
"Stabucks is the postmodern Cheers"
I just love finding great articles online. This one comes via Relevant again and I wanted to share a few reflections on it.
1) The whole concept of a "third space" is interesting to me. I am not sure that I currently have a "third space" in my life. I spend quite a bit of time either in the office or at home. I am guessing that the gym, the golf course, or the coffee shop could all be appropriate "third spaces," but I don't have one right now. Altho the library was most definitely my home away from home during seminary!
2) I am not currently on a first-name basis with the baristas at my Starbucks, but I also don't go there everyday. I usually limit myself to 2 trips a week, but there is one barista who recognizes me by sight and is working to remember my name. Perhaps I should return the favor.
3) Everybody is searching for belonging. The reality of loneliness is rampant in our culture and I continually deal with people who struggle with the problems that loneliness creates. Human beings have an innate desire for companionship and relationships, and I believe this drives us to do almost anything to not be alone - including things that are unhealthy or destructive. As an introvert, I enjoy moments of solitude because that is how I recharge my batteries from a day or week of being with (or in front of) people. I long to belong just as much as anyone else does, but I have found that my longing is completed in Christ, so that I don't have to worry about filling my life with meaningless things just to feel loved and worthy. God makes me worthy. Christ fills my needs. Debbie and Caitlyn love me unconditionally. And I love them even more each day.
Grace&Peace
1) The whole concept of a "third space" is interesting to me. I am not sure that I currently have a "third space" in my life. I spend quite a bit of time either in the office or at home. I am guessing that the gym, the golf course, or the coffee shop could all be appropriate "third spaces," but I don't have one right now. Altho the library was most definitely my home away from home during seminary!
2) I am not currently on a first-name basis with the baristas at my Starbucks, but I also don't go there everyday. I usually limit myself to 2 trips a week, but there is one barista who recognizes me by sight and is working to remember my name. Perhaps I should return the favor.
3) Everybody is searching for belonging. The reality of loneliness is rampant in our culture and I continually deal with people who struggle with the problems that loneliness creates. Human beings have an innate desire for companionship and relationships, and I believe this drives us to do almost anything to not be alone - including things that are unhealthy or destructive. As an introvert, I enjoy moments of solitude because that is how I recharge my batteries from a day or week of being with (or in front of) people. I long to belong just as much as anyone else does, but I have found that my longing is completed in Christ, so that I don't have to worry about filling my life with meaningless things just to feel loved and worthy. God makes me worthy. Christ fills my needs. Debbie and Caitlyn love me unconditionally. And I love them even more each day.
Grace&Peace
16 January 2007
Rock Stars and the Law of Motion
I received this in a weekly e-newsletter that I get from Relevant Magazine and I wanted to share it with all my readers out there. BTW, check out Relevant's site because it is one of the coolest ones I have seen in a long time.
Grace&Peace
"Rock Stars and the Law of Motion"
In his first law of motion, Isaac Newton stated, "An object in motion tends to stay in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force." Like clockwork, every time some cultural revolution takes place, Christendom freaks out and begins hosting conferences to discuss what's wrong and how to fix it. Often the solution doesn't add up to much more than rearranging the same old pieces on the board with a different, hipper look. Likewise, we've proven we can do church in a lot of creative ways, but too often it's still "church," the same old mentality wrapped up in edgier packaging. Meanwhile, Christendom stays in motion at the same speed, in the same direction, headed nowhere.
Years ago Martin Luther tried his best to awaken people to the understanding that those with the power to save the day were often marginal and unimpressive. During his day, a prevailing notion said there were two classes of people in the Church—the clergy and the laity. The clergy were the guys with the seminary degrees and considered the "professionals" in all things God. Everyone else was labeled "laity," spiritual amateurs.
Which raises the question: Does Christendom have rock stars? What I mean by "rock stars" are people we place in some category higher than ourselves, or especially esteem because of their charisma, giftedness or prominence. There does seem to be this sense in Christian culture that if someone is standing on a stage, has their name on the front of a book, holds a degree, occupies a top position or has achieved recognition, this person must be closer to God, know truth that has alluded the masses or be especially equipped to do something huge for God.
Of course, God works through church pastors, teachers and leaders. No problem there. What Martin Luther confronted was the unhealthy dependence people placed on the religious professionals. In Luther's mind this was diametrically opposed to Jesus' teachings that the source of relationship with God and spiritual living is inside all believers through the indwelling Christ. Jesus said in John 14:19-20, "Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you" (TNIV). Explaining this further in John 16:13, Jesus said, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth."
I am a nobody. The Spirit revealed any truth I know, and I cannot claim any special quality as a reason for having discovered it. Like you, I have the source of truth within me by virtue of the indwelling Spirit. And like you, if I am open to it, the Spirit awakens me to truth. Left to myself, I have quite a track record of missing, distorting, convoluting, twisting, dumbing-down and being blinded to the truth. Only the Spirit can open my eyes. There are no rock stars, only jars of clay that carry the life of God in equal measure.
We all are teachers and students. We all can encourage one another on the journey. In recent years some of my most significant teachers have included a Waffle House waitress, a tire salesman, a handicapped girl and a tattoo artist. According to Jesus, whenever just two or three of us gather in His name, we experience a deep spiritual fellowship that awakens us to the present reality of God's kingdom. Only the Spirit within us can mediate this reality. There are no rock stars.
Peter understood the significance of this when he wrote in 2 Peter 1:3, "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."
What if God's plan to save the world is hidden beneath the radar, behind the scenes and among the everyday lives of nobodies? Could God have placed the fate of His created realm in the hands of dorks like us? A wonderful freedom is growing inside me knowing there is hope, meaning and purpose for unimpressive people like me. Maybe God supplies everything we need, and our part is believing, trusting and depending.
Thinking once again of Newton's first law of motion, maybe the "unbalanced force" that could alter the direction of the Church is for all us nobodies to embrace our true identity as spiritual people. Maybe it's true that we are the "body of Christ" on earth, and Christ is living His life in and through each of us.
Today you are going to cross paths with someone with a longing inside. They may not understand it, but their soul longs to return home to God. You may be a very ordinary person, but because the life of God is within you, you have all the necessary spiritual resources to be Christ to whoever comes your way. Keep your eyes wide open; you just may be the nobody God dials up to help someone find home.
Jim Palmer is the author of Divine Nobodies: Shedding Religion to Find God (and the unlikely people who help you) (W Publishing Group).
Grace&Peace
"Rock Stars and the Law of Motion"
In his first law of motion, Isaac Newton stated, "An object in motion tends to stay in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force." Like clockwork, every time some cultural revolution takes place, Christendom freaks out and begins hosting conferences to discuss what's wrong and how to fix it. Often the solution doesn't add up to much more than rearranging the same old pieces on the board with a different, hipper look. Likewise, we've proven we can do church in a lot of creative ways, but too often it's still "church," the same old mentality wrapped up in edgier packaging. Meanwhile, Christendom stays in motion at the same speed, in the same direction, headed nowhere.
Years ago Martin Luther tried his best to awaken people to the understanding that those with the power to save the day were often marginal and unimpressive. During his day, a prevailing notion said there were two classes of people in the Church—the clergy and the laity. The clergy were the guys with the seminary degrees and considered the "professionals" in all things God. Everyone else was labeled "laity," spiritual amateurs.
Which raises the question: Does Christendom have rock stars? What I mean by "rock stars" are people we place in some category higher than ourselves, or especially esteem because of their charisma, giftedness or prominence. There does seem to be this sense in Christian culture that if someone is standing on a stage, has their name on the front of a book, holds a degree, occupies a top position or has achieved recognition, this person must be closer to God, know truth that has alluded the masses or be especially equipped to do something huge for God.
Of course, God works through church pastors, teachers and leaders. No problem there. What Martin Luther confronted was the unhealthy dependence people placed on the religious professionals. In Luther's mind this was diametrically opposed to Jesus' teachings that the source of relationship with God and spiritual living is inside all believers through the indwelling Christ. Jesus said in John 14:19-20, "Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you" (TNIV). Explaining this further in John 16:13, Jesus said, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth."
I am a nobody. The Spirit revealed any truth I know, and I cannot claim any special quality as a reason for having discovered it. Like you, I have the source of truth within me by virtue of the indwelling Spirit. And like you, if I am open to it, the Spirit awakens me to truth. Left to myself, I have quite a track record of missing, distorting, convoluting, twisting, dumbing-down and being blinded to the truth. Only the Spirit can open my eyes. There are no rock stars, only jars of clay that carry the life of God in equal measure.
We all are teachers and students. We all can encourage one another on the journey. In recent years some of my most significant teachers have included a Waffle House waitress, a tire salesman, a handicapped girl and a tattoo artist. According to Jesus, whenever just two or three of us gather in His name, we experience a deep spiritual fellowship that awakens us to the present reality of God's kingdom. Only the Spirit within us can mediate this reality. There are no rock stars.
Peter understood the significance of this when he wrote in 2 Peter 1:3, "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."
What if God's plan to save the world is hidden beneath the radar, behind the scenes and among the everyday lives of nobodies? Could God have placed the fate of His created realm in the hands of dorks like us? A wonderful freedom is growing inside me knowing there is hope, meaning and purpose for unimpressive people like me. Maybe God supplies everything we need, and our part is believing, trusting and depending.
Thinking once again of Newton's first law of motion, maybe the "unbalanced force" that could alter the direction of the Church is for all us nobodies to embrace our true identity as spiritual people. Maybe it's true that we are the "body of Christ" on earth, and Christ is living His life in and through each of us.
Today you are going to cross paths with someone with a longing inside. They may not understand it, but their soul longs to return home to God. You may be a very ordinary person, but because the life of God is within you, you have all the necessary spiritual resources to be Christ to whoever comes your way. Keep your eyes wide open; you just may be the nobody God dials up to help someone find home.
Jim Palmer is the author of Divine Nobodies: Shedding Religion to Find God (and the unlikely people who help you) (W Publishing Group).
03 January 2007
Video Interviews
Holy crap...a video interview of me found its way to the internet! Check it out here. Altho please ignore the fact that the surrounding text refers to a "scout troop" that got stuck in Colorado because the Trietsch Youth Group was the ones stuck. Check out the follow-up story here for their homecoming.
It's very weird to see yourself in video on the internet.
Grace&Peace
It's very weird to see yourself in video on the internet.
Grace&Peace
20 December 2006
Illumination
I wrote this entry in my journal this morning. I thought it was important enough to share with the world. Enjoy!
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8.12, TNIV)
Light is essential for making sure I am walking in the right direction. In our house we have nightlights strategically placed in the different rooms. Those lights give us just enough illumination to see what is around our feet as we walk thruout the house after dark. I could probably let my eyes adjust to the darkness and use ambient light from outside to make it thru our rooms, but that takes a little longer. Altho I know my way around the house fairly well and could probably get where I need to w/ my eyes closed - I choose to have the lights there to illumine my path.
Jesus is a much brighter light than a nightlight - he's more of a floodlight or the sun (Son)! Jesus is the source of light to all of creation, yet there are some who choose to hide in darkness and avoid the light. As Christians, we bask in the light of the Son and we should strive to bring others to it. Jesus promises us that if we believe in him, we will never walk in darkness.
Jesus says that he is the light of the world and that light shines into the dark places of our world and uncovers truths hidden deep w/in us. It is a light that brings healing and wholeness and love to all those who accept it and believe in it.
I need to bring Christ's light to more ppl so that lives can be changed, marriages repaired, and desperation ended.
Lord of Light, I pray for the strength to reach out in your name and w/ your love to those who need light. Shine into dark places so that illumination can bring restoration. Amen.
Grace&Peace
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8.12, TNIV)
Light is essential for making sure I am walking in the right direction. In our house we have nightlights strategically placed in the different rooms. Those lights give us just enough illumination to see what is around our feet as we walk thruout the house after dark. I could probably let my eyes adjust to the darkness and use ambient light from outside to make it thru our rooms, but that takes a little longer. Altho I know my way around the house fairly well and could probably get where I need to w/ my eyes closed - I choose to have the lights there to illumine my path.
Jesus is a much brighter light than a nightlight - he's more of a floodlight or the sun (Son)! Jesus is the source of light to all of creation, yet there are some who choose to hide in darkness and avoid the light. As Christians, we bask in the light of the Son and we should strive to bring others to it. Jesus promises us that if we believe in him, we will never walk in darkness.
Jesus says that he is the light of the world and that light shines into the dark places of our world and uncovers truths hidden deep w/in us. It is a light that brings healing and wholeness and love to all those who accept it and believe in it.
I need to bring Christ's light to more ppl so that lives can be changed, marriages repaired, and desperation ended.
Lord of Light, I pray for the strength to reach out in your name and w/ your love to those who need light. Shine into dark places so that illumination can bring restoration. Amen.
Grace&Peace
19 December 2006
To Heretic or Not to Heretic
Thanks to Stephen Fife for linking me to this quiz! It's good to know that I can't be kicked out on heresy charges.
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
You scored as Chalcedon compliant. You are Chalcedon compliant. Congratulations, you're not a heretic. You believe that Jesus is truly God and truly man and like us in every respect, apart from sin. Officially approved in 451.
Are you a heretic? created with QuizFarm.com |
One great idea creates another
At our Staff Christmas Party today, we did something quite unique and fun.... Earlier this month we tossed around ideas about how to spend some time giving back during the holidays as a team. We decided to buy gifts for the Genesis Women's Shelter in order to help women who are removing themselves from abusive situations and starting their lives over again.
We collected funds from the cash we had on hand and then divided up into teams. Each team was given the same amount of money, the same amount of time, and the same general concept of things to buy. We then raced to the closest stores in order to win one of three prizes: first group back; most items purchased; and biggest bargain.
Our team made a mad dash to Wal-Mart in order to spend our loot. We ran thru the aisles to the small appliances section...bought a toaster, a coffee maker, and a blender. We spent $63.33 and made it back to home base in under 10 minutes. Our team made an effort to draw as much attention to ourselves as possible during our outing to Wally World - and we succeeded mightily!
Our team won the prize for "first group back" and would have won the prize for "spending closest to the limit," but there was no prize for that. As the other groups arrived with their purchases, the table to hold the stuff quickly filled to overflowing. It was amazing to see what a group of people can do in 30 minutes to bless the lives of people we will never meet. It was truly a God-moment and I give thanks to Jennifer for spear-heading the activity.
Praise be to God that there will be women who have survived a road of pain and abuse who can live in their own home with some semblance of normalcy this Christmas thanks to a bunch of people running around Lewisville having fun! And the best part came at the unveiling of the gifts...the team that chose the "best" prize ($20 Starbucks giftcard) gets to meet to discuss the next blessing project our staff will participate in. I am looking forward to that!
Grace&Peace
We collected funds from the cash we had on hand and then divided up into teams. Each team was given the same amount of money, the same amount of time, and the same general concept of things to buy. We then raced to the closest stores in order to win one of three prizes: first group back; most items purchased; and biggest bargain.
Our team made a mad dash to Wal-Mart in order to spend our loot. We ran thru the aisles to the small appliances section...bought a toaster, a coffee maker, and a blender. We spent $63.33 and made it back to home base in under 10 minutes. Our team made an effort to draw as much attention to ourselves as possible during our outing to Wally World - and we succeeded mightily!
Our team won the prize for "first group back" and would have won the prize for "spending closest to the limit," but there was no prize for that. As the other groups arrived with their purchases, the table to hold the stuff quickly filled to overflowing. It was amazing to see what a group of people can do in 30 minutes to bless the lives of people we will never meet. It was truly a God-moment and I give thanks to Jennifer for spear-heading the activity.
Praise be to God that there will be women who have survived a road of pain and abuse who can live in their own home with some semblance of normalcy this Christmas thanks to a bunch of people running around Lewisville having fun! And the best part came at the unveiling of the gifts...the team that chose the "best" prize ($20 Starbucks giftcard) gets to meet to discuss the next blessing project our staff will participate in. I am looking forward to that!
Grace&Peace
14 December 2006
Tough Times in Ministry
This morning I presided over a funeral for a 16 year old. He died tragically and his parents were left with many, many questions. This was by far the most difficult act of ministry and pastoral care that I have had to do in my career. I can only pray that God used me in a way that will change the lives of some of his friends - so that they will not suffer the same fate that he did and that another set of parents won't have to go thru what his did.
Here is an excerpt from my message this morning. I hope that if you are or know someone who struggles with drug issues, please know that I am available to talk anytime.
Paul uses the image of clay pots as a metaphor for the frailty of the human body. If you know anything about clay, you know that it begins as a part of the earth – dusty, sticky, and moldable. When water is added to clay, it becomes a paste that can be shaped into almost anything. Once a particular shape is acquired, the clay can be “fired” in a kiln to harden and solidify the object. Two things happen at this point. One – the object is permanently set in that shape – there is no changing that shape once the clay has been through the kiln. Two – the object is strong, yet fragile – the fired clay can withstand a great amount of pressure, but if you strike the object with enough force, the object will shatter.
The human body is a lot like clay. We have been molded by our Creator to be exactly who we are supposed to be. We have been put through fires that solidify who we are and shape who we will be for the rest of our lives. But, we are oftentimes fragile. Strike us with enough force and we will break, never to be the same again. If we only rely on ourselves for strength, then one good whack can crumble us forever. One blow to the ego and we are done for. One tragic death and you can count us out. If we look to ourselves only, for hope and recovery, during times of crisis, then it is certainly possible that the life that we understand around us can come crashing down, never to be put right again.
Paul offers us more than a “one-and-done” way of living. Paul offers us the strength of Jesus Christ to draw upon when times are tough. Paul offers us the power of the Son of God to surround us during a crisis. Paul offers each and every one of us the opportunity to know that we can be “hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Jesus understood grief. Jesus understood despair. Jesus understood abandonment, loneliness, and frustration. Jesus understands all the emotions that are in this room right now because he felt all of them. Jesus knows what you are going through because he went through those emotions himself as he ate a last meal with his friends, took his last steps carrying the sins of the world on his shoulders, and breathed his last breath and died for the salvation of the whole world. He gave himself up for the forgiveness of sins. He died on the cross to bring us eternal life. He made a way for humanity to be reconciled to God and he did it because he loved us.
Yes, life still has peaks and valleys. Yes, a life lived for Christ may still result in tragedy. Yes, Christians still have pain and suffering. However, those clay jars that hold “the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” are able to moderate those peaks and valleys. They are able to see God’s purpose in pain and suffering and are motivated to make a difference in the world, so that our prayer for God’s kingdom to come on earth can be actualized.
I have a feeling that [D], like many teenagers, wanted tangible evidence about things. He seemed like a guy who wanted physical proof for what he believed in. I am like that in many ways, because without proof, your case won’t hold up. Without proof, all we have to go on is someone’s word. Without proof, we have to trust that people are telling us the truth. Although I do want proof for the things I stand for in life, I have discovered that sometimes, walking out on a limb is the only way to discover what I should stand for. Believing in God does not require us to throw logic and reason out the window. Believing in God does not call us to abandon reality for a land of make believe. Believing in God calls us to understand that we are not alone in this world and that a life lived only for the pursuit of personal pleasure is ultimately unfulfilling and meaningless. Believing in God causes us to move our focus from “that which is seen” to “that which is unseen.”
The Apostle Paul reminds us that outwardly, we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed each day. He reminds us that the stuff we see is “light and momentary” – this includes our bodies, our possessions, and even the earth we live on; but, that the struggles we face each day with those things are moving us toward an eternal glory that surpasses any amount of pain, grief, anguish, or heartache that we may feel. He challenges us (and I second that challenge) “to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
As we celebrate a life so full of potential and promise, we must keep in mind the reality of what ultimately ended his life. I want to speak to those of you who count yourselves among [D]’s many friends for a moment. As you are well aware, the casual (and addictive) use of drugs has skyrocketed across this country over the past decade or so. It is no longer an isolated group of people on a high school campus who use. Drugs cross socio-economic lines, racial lines, and gender lines. More than likely, you know who uses drugs at your school. You probably even know how often, where, when, and how much they use.
[D]’s mom and dad told me that they had no indication that he ever used drugs before Saturday morning. They wanted me to convey a very clear message to each of you this morning. If you are using drugs, stop. If you know someone who uses drugs, help them to stop. If you have never used drugs, don’t ever start. I want to echo their sentiments because your presence here this morning only confirms the dangers that drugs present....
Again, we are here this morning to celebrate [D]’s life. A life that was cut short, but a life that was lived with passion, energy, and drive. His story is bittersweet and it’s hard to believe that it is over so soon. You all have memories of [D] that will live on in your hearts and I believe, from what I have learned about [D] this week, that he would want you to cherish those memories and smile when you think about him. I will leave you with this: God loved [D] all of his 16 years, through all the ups and downs of his life and God continues to love [D] in life beyond this life...in ways we can't prove or even understand, but simply affirm. And also remember: God loves each one of you. No matter where you are in you life and faith, God just loves you, period. In these days and months to come as you grieve the death of [D], God will walk beside you, giving you comfort and support.
Grace&Peace
Here is an excerpt from my message this morning. I hope that if you are or know someone who struggles with drug issues, please know that I am available to talk anytime.
Paul uses the image of clay pots as a metaphor for the frailty of the human body. If you know anything about clay, you know that it begins as a part of the earth – dusty, sticky, and moldable. When water is added to clay, it becomes a paste that can be shaped into almost anything. Once a particular shape is acquired, the clay can be “fired” in a kiln to harden and solidify the object. Two things happen at this point. One – the object is permanently set in that shape – there is no changing that shape once the clay has been through the kiln. Two – the object is strong, yet fragile – the fired clay can withstand a great amount of pressure, but if you strike the object with enough force, the object will shatter.
The human body is a lot like clay. We have been molded by our Creator to be exactly who we are supposed to be. We have been put through fires that solidify who we are and shape who we will be for the rest of our lives. But, we are oftentimes fragile. Strike us with enough force and we will break, never to be the same again. If we only rely on ourselves for strength, then one good whack can crumble us forever. One blow to the ego and we are done for. One tragic death and you can count us out. If we look to ourselves only, for hope and recovery, during times of crisis, then it is certainly possible that the life that we understand around us can come crashing down, never to be put right again.
Paul offers us more than a “one-and-done” way of living. Paul offers us the strength of Jesus Christ to draw upon when times are tough. Paul offers us the power of the Son of God to surround us during a crisis. Paul offers each and every one of us the opportunity to know that we can be “hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
Jesus understood grief. Jesus understood despair. Jesus understood abandonment, loneliness, and frustration. Jesus understands all the emotions that are in this room right now because he felt all of them. Jesus knows what you are going through because he went through those emotions himself as he ate a last meal with his friends, took his last steps carrying the sins of the world on his shoulders, and breathed his last breath and died for the salvation of the whole world. He gave himself up for the forgiveness of sins. He died on the cross to bring us eternal life. He made a way for humanity to be reconciled to God and he did it because he loved us.
Yes, life still has peaks and valleys. Yes, a life lived for Christ may still result in tragedy. Yes, Christians still have pain and suffering. However, those clay jars that hold “the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” are able to moderate those peaks and valleys. They are able to see God’s purpose in pain and suffering and are motivated to make a difference in the world, so that our prayer for God’s kingdom to come on earth can be actualized.
I have a feeling that [D], like many teenagers, wanted tangible evidence about things. He seemed like a guy who wanted physical proof for what he believed in. I am like that in many ways, because without proof, your case won’t hold up. Without proof, all we have to go on is someone’s word. Without proof, we have to trust that people are telling us the truth. Although I do want proof for the things I stand for in life, I have discovered that sometimes, walking out on a limb is the only way to discover what I should stand for. Believing in God does not require us to throw logic and reason out the window. Believing in God does not call us to abandon reality for a land of make believe. Believing in God calls us to understand that we are not alone in this world and that a life lived only for the pursuit of personal pleasure is ultimately unfulfilling and meaningless. Believing in God causes us to move our focus from “that which is seen” to “that which is unseen.”
The Apostle Paul reminds us that outwardly, we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed each day. He reminds us that the stuff we see is “light and momentary” – this includes our bodies, our possessions, and even the earth we live on; but, that the struggles we face each day with those things are moving us toward an eternal glory that surpasses any amount of pain, grief, anguish, or heartache that we may feel. He challenges us (and I second that challenge) “to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
As we celebrate a life so full of potential and promise, we must keep in mind the reality of what ultimately ended his life. I want to speak to those of you who count yourselves among [D]’s many friends for a moment. As you are well aware, the casual (and addictive) use of drugs has skyrocketed across this country over the past decade or so. It is no longer an isolated group of people on a high school campus who use. Drugs cross socio-economic lines, racial lines, and gender lines. More than likely, you know who uses drugs at your school. You probably even know how often, where, when, and how much they use.
[D]’s mom and dad told me that they had no indication that he ever used drugs before Saturday morning. They wanted me to convey a very clear message to each of you this morning. If you are using drugs, stop. If you know someone who uses drugs, help them to stop. If you have never used drugs, don’t ever start. I want to echo their sentiments because your presence here this morning only confirms the dangers that drugs present....
Again, we are here this morning to celebrate [D]’s life. A life that was cut short, but a life that was lived with passion, energy, and drive. His story is bittersweet and it’s hard to believe that it is over so soon. You all have memories of [D] that will live on in your hearts and I believe, from what I have learned about [D] this week, that he would want you to cherish those memories and smile when you think about him. I will leave you with this: God loved [D] all of his 16 years, through all the ups and downs of his life and God continues to love [D] in life beyond this life...in ways we can't prove or even understand, but simply affirm. And also remember: God loves each one of you. No matter where you are in you life and faith, God just loves you, period. In these days and months to come as you grieve the death of [D], God will walk beside you, giving you comfort and support.
Grace&Peace
09 December 2006
Caitlyn's Birthday Pictures
I am far too late in getting these up here, but I hope that you enjoy them nonetheless. Caitlyn's first birthday was back in October and we took lots and lots of pictures, here are just a few for you to see.
Grace&Peace
28 November 2006
How many times have you ignored a prompting from God? What would happen if we all slowed down a little and responded to that still small voice in our heads? Could we change the world? Perhaps we could make it a little better...
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
27 November 2006
Social Networking
21 November 2006
Happy Turkey Day!
I want to send a special shout-out to my father-in-law because Thursday is his "special day" - Turkey Day!!
I'll be in SA for the weekend, so I'll be back with an update on Monday.
Grace&Peace
I'll be in SA for the weekend, so I'll be back with an update on Monday.
Grace&Peace
15 November 2006
Explanation of Hiatus
Sorry that I have been absent from the blogosphere for a week or so...life got busy preparing for going out of town this week and since I don't have a laptop of my own, I must rely on the kindness of other clergy for the temporary use of theirs. Thanks Joe!
So I am currently finishing up Day 3 at the Institute for Church Planting Retreat up here on beautiful Lake Texoma at the Prothro Center. It has been a grueling 3 days and we still have 1 1/2 more to go. I am glad that I am here among friends, but I sure do miss my girls at home. I have talked to them each night, but it's just not the same as seeing them and kissing their faces as they drift off to sleep.
On a personal note (not that the previous paragraph wasn't) I would appreciate some prayers as I discern what God has called me to do in this crazy world of church planting. My personality does not immediately lend itself to a successful church plant, but there are many models to choose from and one might work for me. However, I have been intrigued by the concept of being groomed to be a follow-up pastor at a church that is transitioning out of leadership from their founding/planting pastor. Thanks!
Ok, I will now go and check some blogs that I am behind on and then read another chapter in a great book, then head for the pillow.
Grace&Peace
So I am currently finishing up Day 3 at the Institute for Church Planting Retreat up here on beautiful Lake Texoma at the Prothro Center. It has been a grueling 3 days and we still have 1 1/2 more to go. I am glad that I am here among friends, but I sure do miss my girls at home. I have talked to them each night, but it's just not the same as seeing them and kissing their faces as they drift off to sleep.
On a personal note (not that the previous paragraph wasn't) I would appreciate some prayers as I discern what God has called me to do in this crazy world of church planting. My personality does not immediately lend itself to a successful church plant, but there are many models to choose from and one might work for me. However, I have been intrigued by the concept of being groomed to be a follow-up pastor at a church that is transitioning out of leadership from their founding/planting pastor. Thanks!
Ok, I will now go and check some blogs that I am behind on and then read another chapter in a great book, then head for the pillow.
Grace&Peace
06 November 2006
Share the Love
I have recently begun to listen to leadership tapes and CDs while I am in the car, but when I need a break from those, I listen to Power FM without fail. Last week they held their semi-annual "Share-a-thon" to help raise support from their listeners. Well, I was out of town for two of the days that it was going on, then I got busy the rest of the weekend, so I did not get a post up here in time for you guys to call in and support them during that special time. However, I wanted to link to them so that if you love listening to Christian rock music, please pray about supporting them via the web because you can give online anytime.
Grace&Peace
Catching Up?
Do you ever have that feeling like you are always running to catch up? Do you ever wonder if you can really relax on a vacation? I know I do. I feel so bad...Caitlyn's birthday was almost a month ago and I still have not posted her cake pictures like I promised. And it's not like I can just go and get one off the internet because the latest ones of her on her online photo album are from this summer! Yikes, I'm not so good at keeping photos updated.
Anyway, I will pray for all of you who feel behind the 8-ball and I hope that you will do the same for me.
Grace&Peace
Anyway, I will pray for all of you who feel behind the 8-ball and I hope that you will do the same for me.
Grace&Peace
02 November 2006
Staff Retreat Day 2
Our retreat is now complete and I think there were many, many, many good ideas that came out of our breakout sessions and our group times. I am excited to be a part of a team that is looking forward to what God is going to do through us in 2007. I pray that we are capable and diligent in implementing these goals, strategies, objectives, and tactical activities.
The running joke of the retreat was that we all wanted things to be done by the end of first quarter 2007. Guess we will have a busy 3 months ahead of us!
BTW - our game time last night was a blast and the big winners were Jennifer and Holly (aka "the Bomb") - fun times!
Grace&Peace
The running joke of the retreat was that we all wanted things to be done by the end of first quarter 2007. Guess we will have a busy 3 months ahead of us!
BTW - our game time last night was a blast and the big winners were Jennifer and Holly (aka "the Bomb") - fun times!
Grace&Peace
01 November 2006
Staff Retreat Day 1
This morning and afternoon have seen our staff begin to realign with the vision and values that make Trietsch such a unique place to serve the Lord. Jim spoke eloquently and pointedly about the need to live out the DNA of Trietsch on a daily basis. He said that if we don't intentionally seek to promote the DNA, we will be destroying that DNA with every action against it. Now, he didn't say it just like that, but you get my drift - this is important stuff!
I am looking forward to what this evening has to offer - hopefully some great thinking, planning, and strategizing, but most importantly - a whole lotta FUN! We have plans to play "Totally 80s Trivial Pursuit" tonight and I, for one, am like totally psyched, like for sure!
Grace&Peace
PS - thanks to Alan for letting me use his MacBook Pro to do this post!
I am looking forward to what this evening has to offer - hopefully some great thinking, planning, and strategizing, but most importantly - a whole lotta FUN! We have plans to play "Totally 80s Trivial Pursuit" tonight and I, for one, am like totally psyched, like for sure!
Grace&Peace
PS - thanks to Alan for letting me use his MacBook Pro to do this post!
Talking with a "Legend"
Yesterday I spent 23 minutes on the phone with a great American hero and he gave me a completely new outlook on what my goals should be in regards to the Hospitality Ministries here at Trietsch. Thanks Mark!
I don't know about you, but talking on the phone (or in person) with someone who has written a book is an intimidating thing for me. I feel so unimportant and unintelligent compared to someone who has had their thoughts and ideas printed by a major book publisher. I know most authors are just regular people but I really respect what Mark is doing for the kingdom of God up at Granger. So thanks again Mark, for making me feel important and intelligent when I was talking with you. And thanks for the "wow" moment - at least for me!
Grace&Peace
I don't know about you, but talking on the phone (or in person) with someone who has written a book is an intimidating thing for me. I feel so unimportant and unintelligent compared to someone who has had their thoughts and ideas printed by a major book publisher. I know most authors are just regular people but I really respect what Mark is doing for the kingdom of God up at Granger. So thanks again Mark, for making me feel important and intelligent when I was talking with you. And thanks for the "wow" moment - at least for me!
Grace&Peace
30 October 2006
Time for Reflection...A Good Thing
If I had made this post Saturday afternoon I would have called it, "Either Psychic or Lame" because that dream I had last week...it came true! Our Hospitality Training Event garnered exactly 17 attendees. Hence the title.
Since I am posting today, I have had more time to reflect and sleep and I have a much clearer head about what happened Saturday morning. Therefore, I neither think of myself as psychic or lame. I do still wish that more people had come to the training, but this just means that I will need to spend more time sharing my vision for hospitality ministries here at Trietsch in forums and at times that are more convenient for team members.
I do believe that I will need to spend 2007 convincing and inviting people to join the team that are on board with the vision that God has given me for this ministry. It will take the full efforts of my leadership team and I to make our transition to a "wow" producing ministry a reality.
Any suggestions on books I should read or people I should talk to about this?
Grace&Peace
Since I am posting today, I have had more time to reflect and sleep and I have a much clearer head about what happened Saturday morning. Therefore, I neither think of myself as psychic or lame. I do still wish that more people had come to the training, but this just means that I will need to spend more time sharing my vision for hospitality ministries here at Trietsch in forums and at times that are more convenient for team members.
I do believe that I will need to spend 2007 convincing and inviting people to join the team that are on board with the vision that God has given me for this ministry. It will take the full efforts of my leadership team and I to make our transition to a "wow" producing ministry a reality.
Any suggestions on books I should read or people I should talk to about this?
Grace&Peace
25 October 2006
What kind of hole have I dug here?
Have you ever been so involved in one big project that you spend all day working on it and then dream about it at night?
I am working toward our Hospitality Training this weekend and I have done little else during my office time this week - and I still have much to do! This has become so all-consuming that I dreamed about the event on Monday night. I dreamed that out of 200+ volunteers who could shown up that morning, only 17 did. 17!!! I felt so defeated. I felt like a failure. It sucked. I would consider that a nightmare.
As I continue to plan for Saturday I continue to wonder how many people will show up. I wonder if they will find it worth their time. I wonder if I will actually have my talks together before Friday night. I wonder if I should have brought in an outside "expert" to lead this. I wonder if my team with know that they matter to me (since that is what I am trying to get them to understand about our guests). I wonder.
Please pray for me about this. It is really stressing me out. Pray for me especially because I internalize stress and I don't want an ulcer or something crazy like that.
OK, I'm going home now - yeah Deb and Caitlyn!
Grace&Peace
I am working toward our Hospitality Training this weekend and I have done little else during my office time this week - and I still have much to do! This has become so all-consuming that I dreamed about the event on Monday night. I dreamed that out of 200+ volunteers who could shown up that morning, only 17 did. 17!!! I felt so defeated. I felt like a failure. It sucked. I would consider that a nightmare.
As I continue to plan for Saturday I continue to wonder how many people will show up. I wonder if they will find it worth their time. I wonder if I will actually have my talks together before Friday night. I wonder if I should have brought in an outside "expert" to lead this. I wonder if my team with know that they matter to me (since that is what I am trying to get them to understand about our guests). I wonder.
Please pray for me about this. It is really stressing me out. Pray for me especially because I internalize stress and I don't want an ulcer or something crazy like that.
OK, I'm going home now - yeah Deb and Caitlyn!
Grace&Peace
18 October 2006
One Bad Lunch
On Monday afternoon, two staff members, a spouse (not mine) and I went to lunch at a local restaurant to celebrate a birthday in our group. We have been to this restaurant before and received lackluster service, but we wanted to have Italian food, so we tried it again. This should have been clue #1, but it wasn't.
However, the service at this restaurant (which will remain nameless) was again poor at best. The waiter who took our drink order was one of two waiters for the whole lunch shift and he was also waiting on a table of 15 in the back - so we paitently sipped our drinks and talked. We noticed that altho this was an Italian restaurant, the music playing in the dining room was a mix of country, pop, and classic rock - nothing even remotely Italian.
One member of our party had to hunt down the other waiter in order to get our food order taken and then it took another 25 minutes for our food to arrive at our table. We were just seconds from leaving prior to ordering, but decided to stay once we found someone to take our order. My food was hot, delicious, and reasonably priced, but it will be a long while before I go back there - because I didn't feel valued during my 60 minutes there.
It really is true that a guest's experience is all about the whole package - service, atmosphere, ambiance, friendliness, quality, etc. Without a conscious decision to make dining "an experience" that local restaurant has lost a customer who loves their cuisine.
What can the local church take from a bad trip to a local eatery? We have the best message in the whole world and if we do a lousy job of presenting that message - whether through unfriendly greeters, no parking spaces, or unclear directions - we fail people who matter to God and who need to know that God loves them.
Grace&Peace
However, the service at this restaurant (which will remain nameless) was again poor at best. The waiter who took our drink order was one of two waiters for the whole lunch shift and he was also waiting on a table of 15 in the back - so we paitently sipped our drinks and talked. We noticed that altho this was an Italian restaurant, the music playing in the dining room was a mix of country, pop, and classic rock - nothing even remotely Italian.
One member of our party had to hunt down the other waiter in order to get our food order taken and then it took another 25 minutes for our food to arrive at our table. We were just seconds from leaving prior to ordering, but decided to stay once we found someone to take our order. My food was hot, delicious, and reasonably priced, but it will be a long while before I go back there - because I didn't feel valued during my 60 minutes there.
It really is true that a guest's experience is all about the whole package - service, atmosphere, ambiance, friendliness, quality, etc. Without a conscious decision to make dining "an experience" that local restaurant has lost a customer who loves their cuisine.
What can the local church take from a bad trip to a local eatery? We have the best message in the whole world and if we do a lousy job of presenting that message - whether through unfriendly greeters, no parking spaces, or unclear directions - we fail people who matter to God and who need to know that God loves them.
Grace&Peace
10 October 2006
It's All About the Experience
I am currently reading quickly through Simply Strategic Growth and #42 jumped out at me as one thing that often goes overlooked by long-time church goers: "Engage People in an Experience".
No longer is just opening the doors on a Sunday morning adequate enough for being an effective church. We must strive to offer our communities an experience that connects them with Christ on several levels and at multiple times during their stay on our campus. Tim points out that we must realize that people are no longer just looking for a church based on denominational labels or location, they are asking, "What kind of experience will I have?" and "What vibe do I get from the greeters?"
If we do not connect with the people coming through our doors from the moment they enter our campus, then we stand a good chance of not seeing them again next weekend. As Mark Waltz says, "We have 10 minutes to "wow" them."
This is something we are working hard at here at Trietsch, but we are still learning. We strive to make our worship an experience that leads to life change, but continuing efforts need to be made on the hospitality end of things (my charge) in order to prepare the way for the message to impact the hearers. The members of the church need to realize that we "preach without words" on a continual basis and that our attention to "the experience" will reap benefits for eternity.
Grace&Peace
No longer is just opening the doors on a Sunday morning adequate enough for being an effective church. We must strive to offer our communities an experience that connects them with Christ on several levels and at multiple times during their stay on our campus. Tim points out that we must realize that people are no longer just looking for a church based on denominational labels or location, they are asking, "What kind of experience will I have?" and "What vibe do I get from the greeters?"
If we do not connect with the people coming through our doors from the moment they enter our campus, then we stand a good chance of not seeing them again next weekend. As Mark Waltz says, "We have 10 minutes to "wow" them."
This is something we are working hard at here at Trietsch, but we are still learning. We strive to make our worship an experience that leads to life change, but continuing efforts need to be made on the hospitality end of things (my charge) in order to prepare the way for the message to impact the hearers. The members of the church need to realize that we "preach without words" on a continual basis and that our attention to "the experience" will reap benefits for eternity.
Grace&Peace
Time Flies When...
Caitlyn's first birthday is coming up this weekend and I am floored at how fast the year has gone! It seems like only yesterday that Deb and I were talking about having kids and what it would be like to be parents. Now we have a beautiful daughter who is into everything and is the light of our lives.
I have to say that when Deb brought home a pair of shoes for Caitlyn it took a second for the thought of Caitlyn walking to sink in. And now that we are putting them on her feet daily, she looks even more like a toddler and less like an infant! She is still a little uncomfortable in the shoes (and the socks for that matter!) but I think she is getting used to them.
When we were preparing for Caitlyn's arrival everyone told us that "children will change your life completely" and we sort of laughed it off, but they were exactly right. I continually wonder what we did with all the extra time we used to have.
I plan to take mucho mucho pictures at the party this weekend, so be on the lookout for cake-on-the-face pics up here soon!
Grace&Peace
I have to say that when Deb brought home a pair of shoes for Caitlyn it took a second for the thought of Caitlyn walking to sink in. And now that we are putting them on her feet daily, she looks even more like a toddler and less like an infant! She is still a little uncomfortable in the shoes (and the socks for that matter!) but I think she is getting used to them.
When we were preparing for Caitlyn's arrival everyone told us that "children will change your life completely" and we sort of laughed it off, but they were exactly right. I continually wonder what we did with all the extra time we used to have.
I plan to take mucho mucho pictures at the party this weekend, so be on the lookout for cake-on-the-face pics up here soon!
Grace&Peace
05 October 2006
Mark Long, the writer
Mark Long is a friend of mine that is working to help the young adult clergy in the North Texas Conference gather for dialogue and learning around the emerging church and other issues relevant to ministry in the 21st century. He wrote a great article for the UMR and I hope that all of you take it seriously.
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
29 August 2006
August was a B-L-U-R!
It's been awhile since my last real post, so I thought I would take a few moments and update everyone about what all is going on...
1) Returned from San Diego with a new energy about starting a church - eventho it will be TONS of work
2) Spent three days being inspired to grow as a leader - check out great summaries of each talk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
3) Performed the 2nd and 3rd weddings of my career
4) Beginning the fall season of Bible studies
5) Mourning the loss of a great servant leader
Now I am looking forward for my family (Caitlyn turns 1 in October), my ministry (Hospitality training event), and my leadership (covenanted to read 6 books on the subject by next August).
Grace&Peace
1) Returned from San Diego with a new energy about starting a church - eventho it will be TONS of work
2) Spent three days being inspired to grow as a leader - check out great summaries of each talk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
3) Performed the 2nd and 3rd weddings of my career
4) Beginning the fall season of Bible studies
5) Mourning the loss of a great servant leader
Now I am looking forward for my family (Caitlyn turns 1 in October), my ministry (Hospitality training event), and my leadership (covenanted to read 6 books on the subject by next August).
Grace&Peace
16 August 2006
Who do you want to be?
I found this article about a hipster bar and found myself laughing quite a bit...maybe you will too!
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
02 August 2006
Off to sunny San Diego
I will be leaving the heat of Dallas in August for the mildly pleasant weather in San Diego for 5 days. I am not sure whether I will be able to update while I am there, but I will do my best to find the hotel's business room and use their computer to let all of you know how things are going.
I'll be back late on Tuesday night with (hopefully) a better understanding of what all goes into a church plant. If not, I will most likely have some good stories to share about my time in California and my colleagues in ministry.
Grace&Peace
I'll be back late on Tuesday night with (hopefully) a better understanding of what all goes into a church plant. If not, I will most likely have some good stories to share about my time in California and my colleagues in ministry.
Grace&Peace
31 July 2006
I thought weekends were for relaxing...
I think that was their original intention, but this past weekend was anything but relaxing for the Libby Clan.
We trekked to San Antonio on Thursday afternoon to spend some time with Debbie's folks before heading off to Tapatio Springs for a weekend with our college friends. However, things went south quickly. Debbie spent Thursday night coughing and not sleeping, went to the emergency care doctor on Friday morning and found out that she had a sinus infection.
That nixed our time at the resort - much to our chagrin. We were able to head out for an afternoon get together with our friends on Saturday, but we only stayed a few hours.
We were unable to go to church on Sunday morning because Debbie needed to recuperate from another night of coughing and no sleep. Our trip home that afternoon had us driving through a grass fire in Belton which stopped traffic for about 45 minutes.
Now we are home. Deb went to the doctor again and is suffering from allergies as well as the sinus infection. Tomorrow is her birthday - I think I'll be extra sweet to her since it will not be fun being sick on her special day.
BTW - I don't feel 100% either.
FYI - It sucks being sick!
Grace&Peace
We trekked to San Antonio on Thursday afternoon to spend some time with Debbie's folks before heading off to Tapatio Springs for a weekend with our college friends. However, things went south quickly. Debbie spent Thursday night coughing and not sleeping, went to the emergency care doctor on Friday morning and found out that she had a sinus infection.
That nixed our time at the resort - much to our chagrin. We were able to head out for an afternoon get together with our friends on Saturday, but we only stayed a few hours.
We were unable to go to church on Sunday morning because Debbie needed to recuperate from another night of coughing and no sleep. Our trip home that afternoon had us driving through a grass fire in Belton which stopped traffic for about 45 minutes.
Now we are home. Deb went to the doctor again and is suffering from allergies as well as the sinus infection. Tomorrow is her birthday - I think I'll be extra sweet to her since it will not be fun being sick on her special day.
BTW - I don't feel 100% either.
FYI - It sucks being sick!
Grace&Peace
24 July 2006
Starved for Entertainment?
Is there really nothing better to do on a Sunday afternoon than watch as someone commits several crimes on live TV? Are we so starved for something to watch that we will get in our cars and stop traffic in order to see a woman at gun-point drive a semi down the highway? Have we lost our minds to the point that we will hold up a sign that reads "Keep on Truckin" and cheer when a fugitive from the law rides by?
I am certainly glad that I didn't find out about the car-jacking/truck-jacking/hostage-taking incident until it had safely concluded. I must say that I was (and still am) appalled at the number of people who left their homes to see the hijacked semi drive down I-20. Honestly, I think that anyone who stopped what they were doing (be that watching TV or driving along the highway) in order to cheer on the stolen semi should be arrested for failure to render aid.
This incident was neither funny nor worthy of cheer.
Grace&Peace
I am certainly glad that I didn't find out about the car-jacking/truck-jacking/hostage-taking incident until it had safely concluded. I must say that I was (and still am) appalled at the number of people who left their homes to see the hijacked semi drive down I-20. Honestly, I think that anyone who stopped what they were doing (be that watching TV or driving along the highway) in order to cheer on the stolen semi should be arrested for failure to render aid.
This incident was neither funny nor worthy of cheer.
Grace&Peace
19 July 2006
Happy Blog-iversary!
Today marks one year in the blogosphere for "The Gospel According to Dean" and I just wanted to share a few stats with my readers:
# of posts: 70
# of comments: 86
# of profile views: 140
avg # of posts per month: 5.83
avg # of comments per post: 1.23
avg # of comments per month: 7.17
top posts:
The big winner is "welcome to the internet caitlyn!" with 7 comments
Second place goes to "interesting conversation" with 6 comments
And three posts tied for third with 5 comments each:
"the wait is over" "Here's what I'm wondering..." and "For Sherry..."
Thank you to all of you who have posted comments and helped me to flesh out some of my incoherent thoughts. Maybe year two will provide a post that receives double-digit comments - who know?
Grace&Peace
# of posts: 70
# of comments: 86
# of profile views: 140
avg # of posts per month: 5.83
avg # of comments per post: 1.23
avg # of comments per month: 7.17
top posts:
The big winner is "welcome to the internet caitlyn!" with 7 comments
Second place goes to "interesting conversation" with 6 comments
And three posts tied for third with 5 comments each:
"the wait is over" "Here's what I'm wondering..." and "For Sherry..."
Thank you to all of you who have posted comments and helped me to flesh out some of my incoherent thoughts. Maybe year two will provide a post that receives double-digit comments - who know?
Grace&Peace
17 July 2006
The Heat is Melting My Brain
Summer is almost over and it feels like it is only just beginning.
Last week was "action packed" to say the least. I read with kids at PT, married a couple, and preached on Sunday. To borrow a phrase, "Oof!" I thoroughly enjoyed all of it, but I am very tired this afternoon and I am desperately trying to catch up on the things that had to be pushed aside last week.
I heard some great news between services on Sunday and congrats are in order for one Jon Rutty! Way to go, bro!
Grace&Peace
Last week was "action packed" to say the least. I read with kids at PT, married a couple, and preached on Sunday. To borrow a phrase, "Oof!" I thoroughly enjoyed all of it, but I am very tired this afternoon and I am desperately trying to catch up on the things that had to be pushed aside last week.
I heard some great news between services on Sunday and congrats are in order for one Jon Rutty! Way to go, bro!
Grace&Peace
05 July 2006
Is there such a thing as "slow" in the church?
July is supposed to be the "slow" month here at Trietsch, but as I look at the calendar I don't see anything "slow" about it
- Kids Eat Free with Young Adults - 6th
- Project Transformation - 12th
- Officiating Wedding - 14th
- Preaching - 16th
- Kids Eat Free with Young Adults - 20th
- Six Flags with Young Adults - 21st
- College Reunion Trip - 28th-30th
Plus all the things I have to do to get ready for the school year starting in August - Fall BS Schedule, Medical Response Team, National Night Out, Back in the Saddle, Elevate planning...
I am not complaining, I'm just saying there is lots to be done and I hope that the "slow" month doesn't go by too fast.
Grace&Peace
22 June 2006
28 Candles
Altho I will probably not have a cake this year I continually ponder the significance of the sheer volume of candles that would be on said cake. It's hard for me to think of myself as almost 30, but the reality is just that.
As I stop to look around and see what my 28 years here on earth have accomplished, I can see many good things...
a beautiful wife of five plus years
a wonderful daughter of eight plus months
commissioned on the elder track in the North Texas Conference
a master's degree from Perkins
a bachelor's degree from A&M
part of the staff of a vibrant, growing church
pastoral experience in two other great churches
I am excited about year 29 here on planet Earth...if nothing else, it should at least be fun!
Grace&Peace
As I stop to look around and see what my 28 years here on earth have accomplished, I can see many good things...
a beautiful wife of five plus years
a wonderful daughter of eight plus months
commissioned on the elder track in the North Texas Conference
a master's degree from Perkins
a bachelor's degree from A&M
part of the staff of a vibrant, growing church
pastoral experience in two other great churches
I am excited about year 29 here on planet Earth...if nothing else, it should at least be fun!
Grace&Peace
21 June 2006
Here's what I'm wondering...
Why does a United Methodist church allow it's single-most influential children's event to be driven by Baptist theology?
It seems to me that if the UMC wants to be true to it's Wesleyan roots, we would need to teach Wesleyan theology to our children during Vacation Bible School. It just blows my mind that 800 kids here at Trietsch are learning about salvation using an un-Methodist paradigm. Now, I know that denominational loyalty in the 21st century is nothing like it used to be, but come on - shouldn't we be PROUD of our Methodist roots and want to embrace them?!?!
I guess I am sensitive to this issue, but I wouldn't want Caitlyn to come home from my church's VBS wondering why she was a sinner and needed to repent. I am all for explaining her baptism to her and helping her to understand what Jesus did on the cross, but does singing songs about being a sinner and needing to ask for forgiveness really edify children under the age of 8?
Anyone care to rebut?
Grace&Peace
Why does a United Methodist church allow it's single-most influential children's event to be driven by Baptist theology?
It seems to me that if the UMC wants to be true to it's Wesleyan roots, we would need to teach Wesleyan theology to our children during Vacation Bible School. It just blows my mind that 800 kids here at Trietsch are learning about salvation using an un-Methodist paradigm. Now, I know that denominational loyalty in the 21st century is nothing like it used to be, but come on - shouldn't we be PROUD of our Methodist roots and want to embrace them?!?!
I guess I am sensitive to this issue, but I wouldn't want Caitlyn to come home from my church's VBS wondering why she was a sinner and needed to repent. I am all for explaining her baptism to her and helping her to understand what Jesus did on the cross, but does singing songs about being a sinner and needing to ask for forgiveness really edify children under the age of 8?
Anyone care to rebut?
Grace&Peace
20 June 2006
Hank's Trek
I found this clip from King of the Hill and thought I would share it with you. Anybody want to go to this church?
Grace&Peace
Grace&Peace
19 June 2006
Caitlyn Events
The past few weeks have been highly eventful for Caitlyn, so I thought I would take a moment and let you know about her newest milestones.
1 - Last Wednesday she just opened her mouth and started babbling - it was very cute, but very incoherent, but what 8 month old isn't incoherent? Then on Thursday, she was babbling along and out popped "mama"! Caitlyn's first word was "mama"! Debbie was (and still is) beaming about this...and dad's pretty happy too.
2 - On Saturday as she was getting ready for bed, she was babbling again and out popped "dada"! And guess who was sitting right there when it happened...ME, her "dada"! It was a moment I will never forget.
3 - Yesterday the three of us were sitting on the couch in the living room relaxing and Caitlyn seemed a little tired, so we gave her a drink of water from my glass (she really likes this) and we heard this "clinking" sound as she was drinking. It turns out that the "clinking" sound was her new bottom teeth hitting the glass as she drank! Caitlyn is cutting teeth! So then Debbie and I spent the rest of the afternoon trying to see them, but Caitlyn kept putting her tongue in the way, so we were not able to see them, only feel them. They are surprisingly sharp for baby teeth.
OK, thanks for the indulgence.
Grace&Peace
1 - Last Wednesday she just opened her mouth and started babbling - it was very cute, but very incoherent, but what 8 month old isn't incoherent? Then on Thursday, she was babbling along and out popped "mama"! Caitlyn's first word was "mama"! Debbie was (and still is) beaming about this...and dad's pretty happy too.
2 - On Saturday as she was getting ready for bed, she was babbling again and out popped "dada"! And guess who was sitting right there when it happened...ME, her "dada"! It was a moment I will never forget.
3 - Yesterday the three of us were sitting on the couch in the living room relaxing and Caitlyn seemed a little tired, so we gave her a drink of water from my glass (she really likes this) and we heard this "clinking" sound as she was drinking. It turns out that the "clinking" sound was her new bottom teeth hitting the glass as she drank! Caitlyn is cutting teeth! So then Debbie and I spent the rest of the afternoon trying to see them, but Caitlyn kept putting her tongue in the way, so we were not able to see them, only feel them. They are surprisingly sharp for baby teeth.
OK, thanks for the indulgence.
Grace&Peace
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