It's only 10Am, and I have already had a great day! I woke-up with an excitement that I have not experienced in a while. It stems from last night's worship time with our youth. We had a great crowd that included several visitors; three of which were first timers. It's great to see results from recent changes that God has led us to make. The students that are participating in our Sunday night peer groups are starting to make real connections with each other. It was cool to see the growth that has already taken place in some of these relationships. If you're not a part of a peer group...check it out! Our leaders are awesome, and I promise that you'll have a great time. Remember, the game room opens at 5pm, and we start an hour later.
This morning also brings a sense of anticipation about our upcoming series, "Shhh!" Last night was the third time that the students have seen the trailer, and you could see the excitement building. I can't wait for next Wednesday! I'll try to post the trailer later today.
Finally, this morning has brought some fantastic news: my mom doesn't have cancer! She had a few issues in the last few weeks, and has had a lot of tests run on her. After an MRI at the beginning of the week, she went to the doctor today for the results. He was totally blown away. He told her that after her last visit, he expected to tell her the worst today. GOD IS GOOD!!!
I guess that's it. I think I may have to go cut back flips in my driveway! Wait. There's two problems with that statement: 1) I can't do a back flip, and 2) our driveway goes straight downhill. On second thought, I'll skip the back flips and just be happy.
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What Is Love? (2)
I know what some of you are already thinking, and here's my answer...Yes, I am bobbing my head right to left while typing this post. Don't get it? Three letters "SNL."
Enough of that foolishness. Tomorrow night will be our last week of LOVE CONNECTION, and we will be answering this question. Most Christians will respond with JOHN 15:13. While this is Jesus' definition of supreme love, do we truly understand what that requires?
Here's where you guys come in. I'm asking everyone who reads this post to answer these two questions: 1)Without thinking about it, who would you die for? 2)Without thinking about it, who would you not die for? Please comment anonymously with your responses. They will be instrumental in the continued preparation of my talk for tomorrow night.
If you're in the Greer area, I have a challenge for you: Come to MLBC tomorrow at 7pm, and bring a lost friend. I'm praying that we'll see students come to know Christ, and realize that a love connection with Him is not as hard as they think it is.
BTW...IF YOU'LL BE THERE TOMORROW, BE READY TO DANCE!
BTW 2...This is my 100th post, so put your hands above your head, and move them side to side as if there are no repercussions (throw yo' hands in the air, and wave 'em like you just don't care)! Labels:
Enough of that foolishness. Tomorrow night will be our last week of LOVE CONNECTION, and we will be answering this question. Most Christians will respond with JOHN 15:13. While this is Jesus' definition of supreme love, do we truly understand what that requires?
Here's where you guys come in. I'm asking everyone who reads this post to answer these two questions: 1)Without thinking about it, who would you die for? 2)Without thinking about it, who would you not die for? Please comment anonymously with your responses. They will be instrumental in the continued preparation of my talk for tomorrow night.
If you're in the Greer area, I have a challenge for you: Come to MLBC tomorrow at 7pm, and bring a lost friend. I'm praying that we'll see students come to know Christ, and realize that a love connection with Him is not as hard as they think it is.
BTW...IF YOU'LL BE THERE TOMORROW, BE READY TO DANCE!
BTW 2...This is my 100th post, so put your hands above your head, and move them side to side as if there are no repercussions (throw yo' hands in the air, and wave 'em like you just don't care)! Labels:
Slacker (0)
Wow. I can't begin to tell you how slack I feel about not posting since last Tuesday. I've started posts several times, only to decide that I didn't need to share those thoughts. Today, on the other hand, feels totally different.
The highlight of the last few days was our Parent's Meeting on Sunday afternoon/evening/night. What was meant to be an "informal, drop-in" atmosphere turned into a 2 hour and 45 minute round table discussion. It was awesome! We got a ton of feedback from our parents on a variety of topics. We were able to share our vision for the student ministry at MLBC, and get their responses. I can't even begin to describe how much conformation I received from God last night. Everything that I've been praying about was confirmed in the parents' suggestions, comments, and concerns. All in all, it was a great night.
For any parents who may be reading this, we will have another meeting on April 6th at 5pm.
Hope everyone has a great day! Labels:
The highlight of the last few days was our Parent's Meeting on Sunday afternoon/evening/night. What was meant to be an "informal, drop-in" atmosphere turned into a 2 hour and 45 minute round table discussion. It was awesome! We got a ton of feedback from our parents on a variety of topics. We were able to share our vision for the student ministry at MLBC, and get their responses. I can't even begin to describe how much conformation I received from God last night. Everything that I've been praying about was confirmed in the parents' suggestions, comments, and concerns. All in all, it was a great night.
For any parents who may be reading this, we will have another meeting on April 6th at 5pm.
Hope everyone has a great day! Labels:
Reading Rainbow (1)
Do you guys remember "Reading Rainbow?" If you do, you're probably singing the song right now( Butterfly in the sky; I can fly twice as high...)! I always wanted to be one of those kids who reviewed a book on the show. When you're in second grade that's one of the best jobs in the world. Great news! I've finally realized my dreams of being a book reviewer. Here are a few good ones that I've read recently, but you don't have to take my word for it (some of you will catch that later).
Preaching Re-Imagined by Doug Pagitt
A great read for anyone who speaks in ministry. Pagitt explores where we've gone wrong in our concepts of preaching and what we should do to fix them. This one has helped me a lot.
Do They Run When They See You Coming? by Jonathan McKee
Those of you involved in youth ministry may recognize the author from his website, www.thesource4ym.com. This one is all about reaching-out to unchurched teenagers. Jonathan makes this one an easy read, but it packs a punch concerning outreach.
Real Teens by George Barna
This book is full of stats regarding every aspect of the teenage life. This one has definitely been a help understanding what alot of the students are thinking while I'm teaching on certain subjects, as well as how to adapt our presentation of the Gospel (notice I said presentation of the Gospel not the Gospel itself) to reach students.
Surviving Middle School by Rick Bundschuh
A book that I will be giving every new 6th grader when August rolls around. The cover says it all, "a hilarious guide that will help you avoid being a dork." While there's a ton of funny stuff, it's all really applicable for new middle school students. Added bonus...it comes with CD featuring Reliant K, Tobymac, Superchick, and more! Labels:
Preaching Re-Imagined by Doug Pagitt
A great read for anyone who speaks in ministry. Pagitt explores where we've gone wrong in our concepts of preaching and what we should do to fix them. This one has helped me a lot.
Do They Run When They See You Coming? by Jonathan McKee
Those of you involved in youth ministry may recognize the author from his website, www.thesource4ym.com. This one is all about reaching-out to unchurched teenagers. Jonathan makes this one an easy read, but it packs a punch concerning outreach.
Real Teens by George Barna
This book is full of stats regarding every aspect of the teenage life. This one has definitely been a help understanding what alot of the students are thinking while I'm teaching on certain subjects, as well as how to adapt our presentation of the Gospel (notice I said presentation of the Gospel not the Gospel itself) to reach students.
Surviving Middle School by Rick Bundschuh
A book that I will be giving every new 6th grader when August rolls around. The cover says it all, "a hilarious guide that will help you avoid being a dork." While there's a ton of funny stuff, it's all really applicable for new middle school students. Added bonus...it comes with CD featuring Reliant K, Tobymac, Superchick, and more! Labels:
Weekend Reflections (0)
SLAM DUNK CONTEST
I spent Saturday night watching some of the NBA All-Star festivities. For those of you who may have watched the Slam Dunk Contest...wow, just wow. Dwight Howard is a freak of nature. 6'11" and jump out of the gym! He did some incredible stuff that I couldn't believe. Michelle was even blown away by some of his dunks (that's saying alot for someone who could care less about any sport). I've added a video that I saw last week of a ridiculous dunk (watch close, he kisses the rim) that he had previously done (this is before last year's competition). This wasn't a part of the contest, but impressive none the less. BTW, Dwight is a very outspoken Christian, and I was impressed with his interview after winning the competition.
SUNDAY
We had a awesome service Sunday morning. The music was great (in spite of Ted not feeling well...get well soon), and Mark's sermon was too. He talked about the need to be warriors for Christ. See, we have a tendency to spend to much time fighting with each other instead of fighting for Christ. If we got have as fired-up about what He has done for us as we do over what color to paint a hallway, churches would see an amazing move of Christ. After lunch at The Junction (all-you-can-eat, $9/person, I got my money's worth) and a two hour nap, it was back to church. The praise band led worship for our regualr evening service (no youth small groups last night). MLBCers: you are incredibly lucky to have such a talented group of young people who have a desire to use their talents for Christ! These guys absolutely rocked (probably made some of the older people mad, but that's ok)! Mark continued his series on the book of Romans. If you're anywhere close to Greer on Sunday nights, you need to come listen to this series. I haven't been privilaged to hear all of them, but I have read his outlines...incredible. After worship, 17 youth and leaders headed over to Pizza Inn for supper. One sentence described the entire trip: "She called you poor!!!" I know that a bunch of folks want get it, but it was hillarious!
That's it, gotta get to work. Labels:
I spent Saturday night watching some of the NBA All-Star festivities. For those of you who may have watched the Slam Dunk Contest...wow, just wow. Dwight Howard is a freak of nature. 6'11" and jump out of the gym! He did some incredible stuff that I couldn't believe. Michelle was even blown away by some of his dunks (that's saying alot for someone who could care less about any sport). I've added a video that I saw last week of a ridiculous dunk (watch close, he kisses the rim) that he had previously done (this is before last year's competition). This wasn't a part of the contest, but impressive none the less. BTW, Dwight is a very outspoken Christian, and I was impressed with his interview after winning the competition.
SUNDAY
We had a awesome service Sunday morning. The music was great (in spite of Ted not feeling well...get well soon), and Mark's sermon was too. He talked about the need to be warriors for Christ. See, we have a tendency to spend to much time fighting with each other instead of fighting for Christ. If we got have as fired-up about what He has done for us as we do over what color to paint a hallway, churches would see an amazing move of Christ. After lunch at The Junction (all-you-can-eat, $9/person, I got my money's worth) and a two hour nap, it was back to church. The praise band led worship for our regualr evening service (no youth small groups last night). MLBCers: you are incredibly lucky to have such a talented group of young people who have a desire to use their talents for Christ! These guys absolutely rocked (probably made some of the older people mad, but that's ok)! Mark continued his series on the book of Romans. If you're anywhere close to Greer on Sunday nights, you need to come listen to this series. I haven't been privilaged to hear all of them, but I have read his outlines...incredible. After worship, 17 youth and leaders headed over to Pizza Inn for supper. One sentence described the entire trip: "She called you poor!!!" I know that a bunch of folks want get it, but it was hillarious!
That's it, gotta get to work. Labels:
Valentine's Gift (1)
So, I mentioned in my last post that I had been planning an elaborate Valentine's Day surprise for Michelle. It included an overnight stay in Asheville, and trip to the Biltmore Estate. I know that this may not seem like a big deal, but it was to her (which is all I really care about anyway). The trip was literally a surprise. I didn't tell her until Wednesday night where we were going. I told her on Tuesday night that she needed to pack an overnight bag, and be ready to leave by 8:30 Wednesday evening. She really seemed to appreciate that I had done all of this behind her back, and was pretty excited with the surprise.
Michelle has been talking about going to Bitmore for months, and with all of the junk going-on in our lives recently, I thought this would be a great time to go. We spent the day touring the house (castle, small country, whatever), gardens (dead flowers), and the rest of the estate (except the winery...I was driving). Being a designer, Michelle was continually blown away by fabrics, furniture, and wall coverings. I was blown away by the sheer number of steps that I took by the time we finished touring the first floor! I got to 2,082 when I decided that it wasn't worth it anymore. Dang, that's one big house! We finished-off our trip with lunch at the Stable Cafe. $27 for two cheeseburgers, fries, and slaw! That's ok, she's worth it.
All in all, we had a great time. It was awesome to be able to spend the whole day together, even though my feet are killing me today! Labels:
Michelle has been talking about going to Bitmore for months, and with all of the junk going-on in our lives recently, I thought this would be a great time to go. We spent the day touring the house (castle, small country, whatever), gardens (dead flowers), and the rest of the estate (except the winery...I was driving). Being a designer, Michelle was continually blown away by fabrics, furniture, and wall coverings. I was blown away by the sheer number of steps that I took by the time we finished touring the first floor! I got to 2,082 when I decided that it wasn't worth it anymore. Dang, that's one big house! We finished-off our trip with lunch at the Stable Cafe. $27 for two cheeseburgers, fries, and slaw! That's ok, she's worth it.
All in all, we had a great time. It was awesome to be able to spend the whole day together, even though my feet are killing me today! Labels:
What's the Big Deal? (0)
What's the big deal with Valentine's Day (that's a nice intro, isn't it)? For years I've said that you should show that special someone how much you love them on a daily basis. I've also said that this is a holiday that only benefits florists and retail stores. I've discovered these two truths:
1) You need to do a little extra every now and then.
2) While V-Day does benefit these people ($49 for a dozen roses-WHAT?!), it can also be a huge lift to someone's spirit.
With all that said, I'm in the midst of planning (actually carrying-out-it's been planned for a while) a fairly elaborate, and hopefully memorable, Valentine's Day for my beautiful wife! Yes, I've finally bought-in (except for the $49 flowers) to the whole idea of this holiday.
All of this got me thinking: Jesus did the same kind of thing on occassion. Every once and a while He would heal a blind person, help someone walk, bring someone back from the dead, cast-out some demons, and He even died for us. That's showing someone how special he or she is! He loved everyone on a daily basis, but He knew the exact times to do a little more in order to make a profound impact on someone's life. We should all take this to heart. While it doesn't have to be Valentine's Day, we need to find some time to make others feel extra special. God's been teaching me a lot about this lately, and I'm ready to put it into action. I can't think of a better test subject than Michelle. Labels:
1) You need to do a little extra every now and then.
2) While V-Day does benefit these people ($49 for a dozen roses-WHAT?!), it can also be a huge lift to someone's spirit.
With all that said, I'm in the midst of planning (actually carrying-out-it's been planned for a while) a fairly elaborate, and hopefully memorable, Valentine's Day for my beautiful wife! Yes, I've finally bought-in (except for the $49 flowers) to the whole idea of this holiday.
All of this got me thinking: Jesus did the same kind of thing on occassion. Every once and a while He would heal a blind person, help someone walk, bring someone back from the dead, cast-out some demons, and He even died for us. That's showing someone how special he or she is! He loved everyone on a daily basis, but He knew the exact times to do a little more in order to make a profound impact on someone's life. We should all take this to heart. While it doesn't have to be Valentine's Day, we need to find some time to make others feel extra special. God's been teaching me a lot about this lately, and I'm ready to put it into action. I can't think of a better test subject than Michelle. Labels:
Eggs-hilirating (4)
Last night we spent our small group time with our youth talking about anger and frustration. The whole study stemmed from my realization that I've really been taking a lot of frustration out on a lot of people recently. While studying through Proverbs, I found some amazing verses in chapter 27 that really helped me gain a better understanding of how my actions hurt others. Until we started with the eggs.
Before we split into our groups, we had the students and leaders write the names of people, situations, etc. that they were anger or frustrated with. It was a this time that we told them that we were going to give them one last opportunity to "take it out" on someone concerning these things. Guess who they got to hit...yep, me. We let each person come-up behind me and break his or her egg over my head. They loved it. Me, not so much. The longer I sat there, the more God began showing me how others feel when I unleash my frustrations on them. I didn't want to be there. It hurt. It was messy. The after effects were disgusting. I sat there in awe of how God felt it was best for me to understand these concepts.
After cleaning-up, I was able to listen-in to some of the small group discussion. Great job leaders! It was awesome to hear our students begin to open-up about anger, and how they handle it. All in all it was a great night (with the exception of Clemson losing in Chapel Hill...again). I've provided some pictures for the full effect (thanks Jenny).
Wisdom and Sunday Night (0)
I've been reading through Proverbs for the last day or two, and I've made a startling discovery: I'm not as wise as I thought I was. Yes, this sounds conceited (and in some cases is no big shock), but give me a second and I'll explain. Like most people (I assume) I have times in my life where I think I have something all figured-out. I'm not talking about just the "huge" things, rather the everyday/mundane aspects of life. As usual, God's Word has corrected me big time. What little wisdom I do have is often misused and misdirected. Reading Proverbs is a reminder that one of my biggest desires not only as a minister, but as a Christian, should be for Godly wisdom. There are so many times that I don't ask God on a daily basis for His wisdom. Again, I'm not only talking about the life-altering situations, but the little things. I'm constantly amazed that Solomon realized that the one thing He should desire from God was wisdom. God help me to be that smart.
As for Sunday night, I want to encourage everyone to be here. God has been tearing me up because I've been taking my frustrations out on people. I've tried to "clue-in" God that everyone does this, but He only seems to be concerened with me. With this in mind, Sunday night will be all about what God's Word says about properly handling our anger and frustrations. This will be stuff that's coming straight from my heart via scripture. Note, I said what God's Word says and not what I say because I don't have a clue. Hopefully this will be a time that we can learn together, and in some respects heal together. BUT THAT'S NOT THE BEST PART! As a free gift for atttending, we will be giving everyone a final fit of rage. I know it doesn't make sense now, but if you show-up it should have a lot of meaning, and be pretty doggone entertaining.
I'm hoping that history is made Sunday night as well. For those of you not as familiar with Clemson basketball, I'll fill you in. Clemson is "zero-for life" playing basketball in Chapel Hill, NC. That's right...Clemson has never beaten UNC on its home court. Seeing as how the first game this year was so close (it went into overtime with UNC winning), I'm hoping that the Tigers can pull this one off. That would seriously be awesome. That brings me to the second part of Sunday night. There are a ton of Clemson and UNC fans around here, so if you want to hang-out and watch the game on the big screen in the youth room, you're invited. I'll even spring for pizza! Just let me know by noon Sunday. Labels:
As for Sunday night, I want to encourage everyone to be here. God has been tearing me up because I've been taking my frustrations out on people. I've tried to "clue-in" God that everyone does this, but He only seems to be concerened with me. With this in mind, Sunday night will be all about what God's Word says about properly handling our anger and frustrations. This will be stuff that's coming straight from my heart via scripture. Note, I said what God's Word says and not what I say because I don't have a clue. Hopefully this will be a time that we can learn together, and in some respects heal together. BUT THAT'S NOT THE BEST PART! As a free gift for atttending, we will be giving everyone a final fit of rage. I know it doesn't make sense now, but if you show-up it should have a lot of meaning, and be pretty doggone entertaining.
I'm hoping that history is made Sunday night as well. For those of you not as familiar with Clemson basketball, I'll fill you in. Clemson is "zero-for life" playing basketball in Chapel Hill, NC. That's right...Clemson has never beaten UNC on its home court. Seeing as how the first game this year was so close (it went into overtime with UNC winning), I'm hoping that the Tigers can pull this one off. That would seriously be awesome. That brings me to the second part of Sunday night. There are a ton of Clemson and UNC fans around here, so if you want to hang-out and watch the game on the big screen in the youth room, you're invited. I'll even spring for pizza! Just let me know by noon Sunday. Labels:
24 (0)
Here's my in last 24 hours in six words:
Anticipation
Elation
Bewilderment
Desperation
Heartbreak
Comfort
I know that it doesn't make any sense, but sometimes it's just good to say the words. Labels:
Anticipation
Elation
Bewilderment
Desperation
Heartbreak
Comfort
I know that it doesn't make any sense, but sometimes it's just good to say the words. Labels:
Some Random Thoughts (0)
- Today is National Signing Day for college football. If you're bored, or a Tiger junky like me, shoot on over to http://www.clemsontigers.com/ and watch the letters of intent roll in (remember to push "F5" ever so often so the screen will refresh)
- In regards to NSD...Jaime Harper, Antoine McClain, and Jerrell Harris: come on home boys, Death Valley(the real one) awaits (like my encouragement is really gonna sway their decisions).
- Tonight will be the first week of LOVE CONNECTION. This series was not originally planned to start tonight. As a matter of fact, it wasn't even on the radar screen until God put it there about 3 weeks ago. I'm really excited about what's gonna take place during the next several weeks. It's time for us to realize that God desires a much deeper relationship with us than we could ever imagine, and it's up to us to make that happen.
- Excitement is not the only word that I can use to describe my feelings about tonight. Apprehension is another good one to use. Satan has really been nailing me hard the last few days about tonight's talk, "Just a Little Crush." Thankfully, knowing that this is the direction that God wants us to go is reassuring...so, exitement probably is the best word!
- If you're reading this before 7pm, and you're planning on being at worship, do yourself a favor and read John 21: 1-17. Hey, I'll even help you out by linking to the passage...CLICK HERE.
- I've restarted the diet...began on Monday...down 3 lbs...10 to go. Labels:
- In regards to NSD...Jaime Harper, Antoine McClain, and Jerrell Harris: come on home boys, Death Valley(the real one) awaits (like my encouragement is really gonna sway their decisions).
- Tonight will be the first week of LOVE CONNECTION. This series was not originally planned to start tonight. As a matter of fact, it wasn't even on the radar screen until God put it there about 3 weeks ago. I'm really excited about what's gonna take place during the next several weeks. It's time for us to realize that God desires a much deeper relationship with us than we could ever imagine, and it's up to us to make that happen.
- Excitement is not the only word that I can use to describe my feelings about tonight. Apprehension is another good one to use. Satan has really been nailing me hard the last few days about tonight's talk, "Just a Little Crush." Thankfully, knowing that this is the direction that God wants us to go is reassuring...so, exitement probably is the best word!
- If you're reading this before 7pm, and you're planning on being at worship, do yourself a favor and read John 21: 1-17. Hey, I'll even help you out by linking to the passage...CLICK HERE.
- I've restarted the diet...began on Monday...down 3 lbs...10 to go. Labels:
A Few Questions For God (1)
In a recent post, I shared that we should feel comfortable asking God questions here on earth because we'll have all the answers as soon as we reach Heaven. Michelle and I had this little conversation on Saturday about questions that we ask God. Here were my initial responses:
What did Noah do with all of the, uh, "do" while on the ark?
How did Lazarus feel about coming back to life?
What was Jesus like as a kid?
How did Adam come-up with the names for the animals?
Why do some females feel that it is attractive to show their cracks? Seriously...Michelle and I saw this girl at the mall the other night...sorry.
What was the greatest thing before sliced bread?
Can I hit just one hole-in-one before I get to Heaven?
So that's it? That's what you ask God? Not necessarily, but I've realized that I usually ask some pretty dumb things. What's worse, I ask some pretty selfish things. These are some of the questions that God has challenged me to start asking. They're not easy ones, and rarely do I actually want to ask them. Why? I'm afraid He'll answer...
Have my actions today made God proud, or disgusted Him?
What can I do to have a bigger impact for Christ?
Am I giving God "the best" of me?
Is this my will, or God's will?
What am I willing to do in order to change the world?
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What did Noah do with all of the, uh, "do" while on the ark?
How did Lazarus feel about coming back to life?
What was Jesus like as a kid?
How did Adam come-up with the names for the animals?
Why do some females feel that it is attractive to show their cracks? Seriously...Michelle and I saw this girl at the mall the other night...sorry.
What was the greatest thing before sliced bread?
Can I hit just one hole-in-one before I get to Heaven?
So that's it? That's what you ask God? Not necessarily, but I've realized that I usually ask some pretty dumb things. What's worse, I ask some pretty selfish things. These are some of the questions that God has challenged me to start asking. They're not easy ones, and rarely do I actually want to ask them. Why? I'm afraid He'll answer...
Have my actions today made God proud, or disgusted Him?
What can I do to have a bigger impact for Christ?
Am I giving God "the best" of me?
Is this my will, or God's will?
What am I willing to do in order to change the world?
Labels:
I'm Glad That I Woke-Up at 5:15 This Morning (0)
For the last few months, I've been a part of a great study called Men's Fraternity. There are 10-12 men that meet every Monday morning at 6:00AM in order to learn what it means to have authentic manhood. Yes, I said 6:00AM. That requires me to wake-up at 5:15! In case you didn't know it, 5:15AM is early. As hard as it is to do this each week, I'm always glad that I make to the Bible study, and this morning was no exception.
Today, we talked about the difference between Adam and Jesus Christ. Adam was passive when it came to leading. Genesis 3:6 tells us that Adam just stood there and watched Eve take the fruit and eat. He did nothing, said nothing, and took no responsibility for what was taking place. He was passive in His role as a man and as a leader. Conversely,Philippians 2: 5-8 reminds us that Jesus took responsibility for mankind, left His lofty position, and died for us. That's the true mark of a man.
While this spoke to me about my role as a man, it spoke to me even more about my role as a leader in ministry. How many times do I just sit back and watch while those under my leadership fall away from Christ? I won't open my mouth, or lead by example, because I don't want to offend anyone. I don't want to hurt anyone's feeling. Adam did the same thing, and look what happened as a result: we are all born into sin. Then, there's Christ. He didn't have to die for us. He was God. He could have changed everything without leaving Heaven, but He chose to take responsibility. He set an example for all of eternity.
I want to challenge everyone who has, or desires, a leadership role in ministry: take responsibility. I'm not just talking about "ministers" here. I'm talking about everyone who teaches Sunday School, leads a small group, directs a children's ministry, or works with young people. Be an example! We wonder why those under our leadership won't take their relationships with Christ seriously? Maybe it's because we don't set that example. When you come to a worship service...worship. When you see someone in need...help them. When everyone else is skipping church...show up.
This is definitely an area of my life that I need to address. I can't sit back and wait for someone else to lead because it may not happen. It's time to step-up, and be the leader that God desires for me to be. It's time to address issues that need to be addressed, and be a living example to those under my leadership.
Yes, 5:15 is early; but, I'm really glad that I got out of bed this morning. Labels:
Today, we talked about the difference between Adam and Jesus Christ. Adam was passive when it came to leading. Genesis 3:6 tells us that Adam just stood there and watched Eve take the fruit and eat. He did nothing, said nothing, and took no responsibility for what was taking place. He was passive in His role as a man and as a leader. Conversely,Philippians 2: 5-8 reminds us that Jesus took responsibility for mankind, left His lofty position, and died for us. That's the true mark of a man.
While this spoke to me about my role as a man, it spoke to me even more about my role as a leader in ministry. How many times do I just sit back and watch while those under my leadership fall away from Christ? I won't open my mouth, or lead by example, because I don't want to offend anyone. I don't want to hurt anyone's feeling. Adam did the same thing, and look what happened as a result: we are all born into sin. Then, there's Christ. He didn't have to die for us. He was God. He could have changed everything without leaving Heaven, but He chose to take responsibility. He set an example for all of eternity.
I want to challenge everyone who has, or desires, a leadership role in ministry: take responsibility. I'm not just talking about "ministers" here. I'm talking about everyone who teaches Sunday School, leads a small group, directs a children's ministry, or works with young people. Be an example! We wonder why those under our leadership won't take their relationships with Christ seriously? Maybe it's because we don't set that example. When you come to a worship service...worship. When you see someone in need...help them. When everyone else is skipping church...show up.
This is definitely an area of my life that I need to address. I can't sit back and wait for someone else to lead because it may not happen. It's time to step-up, and be the leader that God desires for me to be. It's time to address issues that need to be addressed, and be a living example to those under my leadership.
Yes, 5:15 is early; but, I'm really glad that I got out of bed this morning. Labels:
Love Connection and a Clarification (0)
Raise your hand if you've ever watched the old TV show "Love Connection." That was some funny junk! Chuck Woolery (we'll be back in 2 and 2) hosted the dating game show. The contestants would choose a date based on three pictures and a short video interview. After the date, they two people would come back to the show and described what happened. If there was a "love connection," the show would pay for them to go on a second date. If not, oh well.
You may be wondering, "What does this have to do with anything?" The answer is simple: Have you made a "love connection" with God? We're not talking about a one-time experience, but a lifetime of intimate love between you and God. See, there are many who treat their "relationship" with Christ like that TV show; but, a relationship with Christ is much more than that, and beginning this Wednesday, we'll be talking about that with our youth. John 21 will be the basis of this week's talk, "Just a Little Crush." Yes, I know that's a Jennifer Paige song. During this series, you better get used to it.
On a totally different subject, I want to clarify something that came from Tuesday's post. I believe that I wasn't clear on the grieving process that Michelle and I have been going through. After reading the post myself, I felt that I made it sound like Michelle and I have not gone through all of this stuff together. Let me assure you that this is far from the truth. This has actually brought us much closer together than we have been in 6+ years of marriage (btw, thanks Mrs. Levie for that specific prayer). I have shared my thoughts and feelings with her, but my post made it seem otherwise. My intent was to share all of this with someone other than Michelle becuase I felt that was neccesary for me as I grieve. All of the questions and statements that were made have been shared previously with my wife and God. He's already answering these questions, and reaffirming so much in my life. As for Michelle and me...we're doing just fine. There are tough times, but there are a lot of great times too! Just wanted to clear that up. Thanks for reading!
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You may be wondering, "What does this have to do with anything?" The answer is simple: Have you made a "love connection" with God? We're not talking about a one-time experience, but a lifetime of intimate love between you and God. See, there are many who treat their "relationship" with Christ like that TV show; but, a relationship with Christ is much more than that, and beginning this Wednesday, we'll be talking about that with our youth. John 21 will be the basis of this week's talk, "Just a Little Crush." Yes, I know that's a Jennifer Paige song. During this series, you better get used to it.
On a totally different subject, I want to clarify something that came from Tuesday's post. I believe that I wasn't clear on the grieving process that Michelle and I have been going through. After reading the post myself, I felt that I made it sound like Michelle and I have not gone through all of this stuff together. Let me assure you that this is far from the truth. This has actually brought us much closer together than we have been in 6+ years of marriage (btw, thanks Mrs. Levie for that specific prayer). I have shared my thoughts and feelings with her, but my post made it seem otherwise. My intent was to share all of this with someone other than Michelle becuase I felt that was neccesary for me as I grieve. All of the questions and statements that were made have been shared previously with my wife and God. He's already answering these questions, and reaffirming so much in my life. As for Michelle and me...we're doing just fine. There are tough times, but there are a lot of great times too! Just wanted to clear that up. Thanks for reading!
