- Starbucks is incredible! Yes, it costs an ungodly sum for a cup of coffee, but dang, it's worth it.
- Follow the Leader has been an awesome series. There have been some great conversations with our students about humility. I really feel that all of us have a better understanding of what humility is, and why it's so important.
- I'm crazy excited about tonight. The title of the talk is I'm a Worthless Piece of Trash. I know it sounds harsh...that's the point.
- I forgot how to get to the Cath Lab at Greenville Memorial this morning. My ego wouldn't let me ask for directions, and I almost missed the lady that I was there to see. Why are men so adamant about not asking for directions even when we're as lost as a goose in a snow storm?
- I use that last phrase (the one about the goose) a lot.
- Has anyone else been disappointed in the last three episodes of "The Office?" You would think that the writers would have come-up with some better ideas during the strike.
- Wow. That last one was really random.
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Randomness (0)
Are You a Man (0)
Obviously, females already have their answer to the question. What about you, guys? Are you a man? Better yet, do you even know what a man is?
I'd never really thought about that question until I participated in Men's Fraternity for the last 6 months. We discovered a Biblical definition of manhood. A real man leads courageously, rejects passivity, accepts responsibility, and expects God's greater reward. How many of those phrases describe you, men? I will admit that I struggled with a couple of them.
Tonight, MLBC held it's annual men's night. Almost 300 men filled our gym, and were challenged to follow Christ, lead our families, and share our faith with others. It was a great night with several men making some type of decision, but this thought is continually running through my mind: Will the excitement, energy, and enthusiasm still be there when those 300 men wake-up in the morning? Will each of us lead, follow, and share with a passion like we've never had before, or will we fall back into the same routine?
God, help me be a real man. Labels:
I'd never really thought about that question until I participated in Men's Fraternity for the last 6 months. We discovered a Biblical definition of manhood. A real man leads courageously, rejects passivity, accepts responsibility, and expects God's greater reward. How many of those phrases describe you, men? I will admit that I struggled with a couple of them.
Tonight, MLBC held it's annual men's night. Almost 300 men filled our gym, and were challenged to follow Christ, lead our families, and share our faith with others. It was a great night with several men making some type of decision, but this thought is continually running through my mind: Will the excitement, energy, and enthusiasm still be there when those 300 men wake-up in the morning? Will each of us lead, follow, and share with a passion like we've never had before, or will we fall back into the same routine?
God, help me be a real man. Labels:
Random Thoughts (0)
- 5 day old Birthday Cake from Strosner's is still delicious.
- Monday+Rain+A Restless Night=Nodding-off at your desk...twice.
- Fatz Cafe wait staff don't seem to like it when you press the electronic button for no good reason.
- This morning's Bible Study was about persepective. It was a real eye opener.
- I thought that all people in the south were "neighborly."
- Hearing about the teenager that killed his family shook me up. We have no idea what kind of warfare our students are dealing with on a daily basis. The only way to find-out is to build relationships with them.
- Played "Signs" for 2 hours on Sunday night. It's been a long time since I laughed that hard.
- My new favorite commercial - "...so, why have your cake if you're not going to eat it, too?" Think about. That's a good question. Labels:
- Monday+Rain+A Restless Night=Nodding-off at your desk...twice.
- Fatz Cafe wait staff don't seem to like it when you press the electronic button for no good reason.
- This morning's Bible Study was about persepective. It was a real eye opener.
- I thought that all people in the south were "neighborly."
- Hearing about the teenager that killed his family shook me up. We have no idea what kind of warfare our students are dealing with on a daily basis. The only way to find-out is to build relationships with them.
- Played "Signs" for 2 hours on Sunday night. It's been a long time since I laughed that hard.
- My new favorite commercial - "...so, why have your cake if you're not going to eat it, too?" Think about. That's a good question. Labels:
LOST (0)
Is there anyone else on earth addicted to show? I'm sure there are, but every time I ask that question no one responds. Don't be afraid. Admitting that you have a problem is the first step to recovery :)
In the last few weeks, I've become addicted to another form of LOST...Luke 15. This chapter contains the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son. These parables have amazing messages for everyone, and beginning May 7th, we will studying them with our youth. I will admit that the idea for this series has been there since October. The youth ministry team with which my brother serves in Baton Rouge was finishing-up the same series when Michelle and I visited. So, no, this will not be an original idea, but I can't wait to get started.
Let's not put the cart before the horse, though. We still have one week of Follow the Leader left to go. The last two weeks have been incredible. We've had some great responses from our students about how God is teaching them humility. We'll finish-up this week with "I'm A Worthless Piece of Trash." Don't miss it! Labels:
In the last few weeks, I've become addicted to another form of LOST...Luke 15. This chapter contains the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son. These parables have amazing messages for everyone, and beginning May 7th, we will studying them with our youth. I will admit that the idea for this series has been there since October. The youth ministry team with which my brother serves in Baton Rouge was finishing-up the same series when Michelle and I visited. So, no, this will not be an original idea, but I can't wait to get started.
Let's not put the cart before the horse, though. We still have one week of Follow the Leader left to go. The last two weeks have been incredible. We've had some great responses from our students about how God is teaching them humility. We'll finish-up this week with "I'm A Worthless Piece of Trash." Don't miss it! Labels:
Wednesday Highlights (1)
-Michelle celebrated her 30th birthday! I know that you're not supposed to tell a woman's age, but she's ok with it. More on this later.
-OK. It's later. Some friends and family planned a surprise party for Michelle after youth group. Of course, I was the chief instigator. No one called her all day because they knew they would see her last night. She was wondering why no one had called her. Oops.
-The staff took Sharon and Becky to lunch for Administrative Professionals Day. We went to the Copper River Grill, and everyone ate a salad...except me. My sliced sirloin sandwich was awesome.
-Youth Group was great. We had more first time guests last night. The band did a great job, as usual. Props to Chris for making it through the set with a cold. We talked about the results of humility, and I admitted to owning "Fast Abs." I'm not even going to post a link to that product.
-The surprise party went just as planned. Michelle was so shocked that she thought she had walked-in on someone else's party. We had a great time.
-I love my wife so much that words won't do it justice. So I'll just leave it at I LOVE YOU MICHELLE! Labels:
-OK. It's later. Some friends and family planned a surprise party for Michelle after youth group. Of course, I was the chief instigator. No one called her all day because they knew they would see her last night. She was wondering why no one had called her. Oops.
-The staff took Sharon and Becky to lunch for Administrative Professionals Day. We went to the Copper River Grill, and everyone ate a salad...except me. My sliced sirloin sandwich was awesome.
-Youth Group was great. We had more first time guests last night. The band did a great job, as usual. Props to Chris for making it through the set with a cold. We talked about the results of humility, and I admitted to owning "Fast Abs." I'm not even going to post a link to that product.
-The surprise party went just as planned. Michelle was so shocked that she thought she had walked-in on someone else's party. We had a great time.
-I love my wife so much that words won't do it justice. So I'll just leave it at I LOVE YOU MICHELLE! Labels:
I Still Don't Know Why I Laugh at This Video (0)
I needed a good laugh this morning, so I went in search of one of my favorite videos. Funny...yes. Weird...yes. Disturbing...yes. I can't help it. I think it's hilarious.
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Weekend Reflections (0)
I have a killer headache right now, so I'm going to make this short and sweet.
Saturday
- I was stalked by some random dude in Pet Smart. He thought that he knew me...he didn't...now he does.
- I run into Bobbie Jo Bright (one of our youth ministry leaders) in Wal-Mart as much as I do at church (well, maybe not that much, but it's a lot).
- Played in a basketball tournament with Drew and Jordan Plumblee, Drew Burgess, and Christian Bright. It took a combination of players from teams that had already been eliminated ot take us out. It was fun. I'll leave it at that. Send me an email if you want FULL details.
Sunday
- So sore from Saturday night that I couldn't walk down our steps without moaning. I'm getting old.
- Children's Day on Sunday morning. Girl threw-up during a song, and came back 5 minutes later and participated in a skit. She did a great job, too.
- My hour and a half nap kept me up late.
- Got wrapped-up in "Burn for You" by FEE. "I'll go anywhere. I'll do anything. At any cost for You my King." Whoa. That will mess you up. Labels:
Saturday
- I was stalked by some random dude in Pet Smart. He thought that he knew me...he didn't...now he does.
- I run into Bobbie Jo Bright (one of our youth ministry leaders) in Wal-Mart as much as I do at church (well, maybe not that much, but it's a lot).
- Played in a basketball tournament with Drew and Jordan Plumblee, Drew Burgess, and Christian Bright. It took a combination of players from teams that had already been eliminated ot take us out. It was fun. I'll leave it at that. Send me an email if you want FULL details.
Sunday
- So sore from Saturday night that I couldn't walk down our steps without moaning. I'm getting old.
- Children's Day on Sunday morning. Girl threw-up during a song, and came back 5 minutes later and participated in a skit. She did a great job, too.
- My hour and a half nap kept me up late.
- Got wrapped-up in "Burn for You" by FEE. "I'll go anywhere. I'll do anything. At any cost for You my King." Whoa. That will mess you up. Labels:
Just Open Your Eyes (0)
I don't about you, but every couple of weeks I have a crazy dream. I'm not sure if it happens because of what I've eaten, what I've watched on television, or some random thought that's slipped into my subconscience during the day, but these things are generally nuts. The worst ones have to do with me being in college, showing-up to class one day, and realizing that I've missed like a month's worth of classes! I can feel myself start to freak-out when it finally hits me: Just Open Your Eyes!
I feel like there are a lot of times when God is screaming the same thing at us. We beg and plead to see His will for our lives, to understand His divine plan, or to just catch a glimpse of what He's up to when all we have to do is open our eyes to see that it has already been laid-out in front of us. In John 14: 7-11, Jesus confronts Philip on this issue. Philip wants to see the Father, and Jesus is like, "Dude, we've been around each other for how long, and you still don't know Me? Looking at me is like looking at the Father. Just open your eyes!" OK. That's the BR translation, but you get the point. There have been so many times when I've asked God to show me this or that, only to be told to open my eyes. When I do, I discover that God's been doing so much around me the entire time. Maybe it has to do a lack of faith. Maybe it's sin blocking my line of sight. Maybe it's me being stubborn and wanting God to reveal His plan within "my plan."
So, are you floating around in your dream world, trying to see God's plan...just open your eyes. Labels:
I feel like there are a lot of times when God is screaming the same thing at us. We beg and plead to see His will for our lives, to understand His divine plan, or to just catch a glimpse of what He's up to when all we have to do is open our eyes to see that it has already been laid-out in front of us. In John 14: 7-11, Jesus confronts Philip on this issue. Philip wants to see the Father, and Jesus is like, "Dude, we've been around each other for how long, and you still don't know Me? Looking at me is like looking at the Father. Just open your eyes!" OK. That's the BR translation, but you get the point. There have been so many times when I've asked God to show me this or that, only to be told to open my eyes. When I do, I discover that God's been doing so much around me the entire time. Maybe it has to do a lack of faith. Maybe it's sin blocking my line of sight. Maybe it's me being stubborn and wanting God to reveal His plan within "my plan."
So, are you floating around in your dream world, trying to see God's plan...just open your eyes. Labels:
The Wednesday That Was (1)
I never imagined that a Wednesday could be busier that normal. but yesterday was crazy. I was going nuts trying to do two days worth of "office stuff" since I was at home contemplating the removal of my stomach (anyone figured-out why I lost seven lbs in 24 yet). On top of all of that, my stomach was in a knot all day. No, I wasn't nervous. My stomach was literally in a knot. At least, that's what it felt like.
Even through all of that, last night was one of the best worship times that we had with the youth in some time. Chris, our worship leader, set-up a "Rock Band" guitar to actually play through his Mac! He used it with the band on We Want Be Quiet by the David Crowder*Band. Two syllables: AWE-SOME! As usual, those guys did an incredible job.
While all of that was cool, the best part were the first-timers. I love to see students bring their friends to church. I love seeing their friends bring their friends, and in the case of last night, their friends, friends bring their friends! God is incredible!!!
One more thing...just downloaded Chasen's new CD from Itunes. Wow. Just wow. These guys are great, and you can tell that they love Jesus. If you have the opportunity, check-out their release party at Marathon Community Church in Powdersville. Tickets are $7. Labels:
Even through all of that, last night was one of the best worship times that we had with the youth in some time. Chris, our worship leader, set-up a "Rock Band" guitar to actually play through his Mac! He used it with the band on We Want Be Quiet by the David Crowder*Band. Two syllables: AWE-SOME! As usual, those guys did an incredible job.
While all of that was cool, the best part were the first-timers. I love to see students bring their friends to church. I love seeing their friends bring their friends, and in the case of last night, their friends, friends bring their friends! God is incredible!!!
One more thing...just downloaded Chasen's new CD from Itunes. Wow. Just wow. These guys are great, and you can tell that they love Jesus. If you have the opportunity, check-out their release party at Marathon Community Church in Powdersville. Tickets are $7. Labels:
Info-Mercial, Rental Cars, and Smacks in the Face (0)
For only $19.95, you can experience the weight loss plan that is sweeping the nation! No pills, no diet plan. Just science, beautiful science. For this one-time, low price, I will cough in your face, spit in your drink, or anything else necessary to pass this "wonderful" gift on to you. Don't wait. Time is running-out on the opportunity for you to lose 7 lbs in 24 hours!
My insurance company just called me to say that my car will be finished in about an hour. I'm putting-off picking it up until 4pm because I want to drive the rental a little bit longer. I don't know why, but I really enjoy driving someone else's car. Maybe it's because it's a lot nicer than mine.
The more I study for our Follow the Leader series, the more God smacks me in the face. I've come to the place that talking about humility seems wrong. I feel like every time I talk about being humble, I'm not being humble because I'm bringing attention to myself. This has really been an eye opening last month. I've been continually amazed at how Jesus could teach on subjects, but never seem like He was putting attention on Himself. I want to have the type of relationship with God that reveals Him in all that I say and do. Jesus could talk about any subject and not come across conceited because He had one interest in mind: POINT THEM TO THE FATHER. My prayer for this series is that my mindset be POINT THEM TO THE FATHER. I don't want to throw-off on anyone, or make anyone think that I know it all. I want everyone, including me to understand that less of us means more of Him. Guess what...that's a good thing. A really good thing. Labels:
My insurance company just called me to say that my car will be finished in about an hour. I'm putting-off picking it up until 4pm because I want to drive the rental a little bit longer. I don't know why, but I really enjoy driving someone else's car. Maybe it's because it's a lot nicer than mine.
The more I study for our Follow the Leader series, the more God smacks me in the face. I've come to the place that talking about humility seems wrong. I feel like every time I talk about being humble, I'm not being humble because I'm bringing attention to myself. This has really been an eye opening last month. I've been continually amazed at how Jesus could teach on subjects, but never seem like He was putting attention on Himself. I want to have the type of relationship with God that reveals Him in all that I say and do. Jesus could talk about any subject and not come across conceited because He had one interest in mind: POINT THEM TO THE FATHER. My prayer for this series is that my mindset be POINT THEM TO THE FATHER. I don't want to throw-off on anyone, or make anyone think that I know it all. I want everyone, including me to understand that less of us means more of Him. Guess what...that's a good thing. A really good thing. Labels:
Weekend Reflections (0)
- Saturday was a lot of fun. Several of our youth and leaders participated in our "Spring Clean." The original plan was to do a free car wash and pick-up trash on Mt. Lebanon Church Road; however, things changed quite a bit when the rains came. We still washed cars, but we didn't get to the clean-up part of it. We had a good time, though. Such a good time, that we're going to finish our trash pick-up on April 26th at 9 AM. This time, we'll serve breakfast!
- In both of our services on Sunday, six of our deacons (three in the morning and three in the evening) shared what God is doing in their lives. It was awesome! I get excited hearing people talk about what God is showing them through scripture, prayer, relationships, and circumstances. I get really excited when people volunteer this information, even if it means sharing in front of three hundred or so people. We called-off our youth Peer Groups to give the students and leaders a chance to hear the hearts of these men, and I don't regret it one bit. Originally, I struggled with the decision, but God knew best.
- It's important for our students to hear the hearts of their spiritual leaders. They need to know that a deacon does more than meet once a month. They need to know that these guys take responsibility for the position that God has put them in. I really appreciate the students and leaders understanding why we did what did.
- Tiger Woods lost! I must admit that I'm pretty happy that he didn't win the Masters, but that want stop me from praying that He will give his life to Christ.
- Spent some more prep time on this week's talk for our current series, Follow the Leader. I'm really excited about the next three weeks. God has shown me so much about my life as I've been studying for the last month. He has burned this prayer into my heart: Lord, thank you for using me, in spite of me. Help me to remember that I'm not doing this or that with Your help, but that You're using me to do this or that in order to accomplish Your will. BTW...the title of this week's talk will be "Exposed." Labels:
- In both of our services on Sunday, six of our deacons (three in the morning and three in the evening) shared what God is doing in their lives. It was awesome! I get excited hearing people talk about what God is showing them through scripture, prayer, relationships, and circumstances. I get really excited when people volunteer this information, even if it means sharing in front of three hundred or so people. We called-off our youth Peer Groups to give the students and leaders a chance to hear the hearts of these men, and I don't regret it one bit. Originally, I struggled with the decision, but God knew best.
- It's important for our students to hear the hearts of their spiritual leaders. They need to know that a deacon does more than meet once a month. They need to know that these guys take responsibility for the position that God has put them in. I really appreciate the students and leaders understanding why we did what did.
- Tiger Woods lost! I must admit that I'm pretty happy that he didn't win the Masters, but that want stop me from praying that He will give his life to Christ.
- Spent some more prep time on this week's talk for our current series, Follow the Leader. I'm really excited about the next three weeks. God has shown me so much about my life as I've been studying for the last month. He has burned this prayer into my heart: Lord, thank you for using me, in spite of me. Help me to remember that I'm not doing this or that with Your help, but that You're using me to do this or that in order to accomplish Your will. BTW...the title of this week's talk will be "Exposed." Labels:
What Are We Thinking? (0)
As many of you know, I am not a big proponent of church signs. They're great for keeping the community aware of what's going-on, but the silly little sayings are becoming a bit much. Yesterday, Michelle and I made a tour of Anderson and Greenville counties (she had to go to Williamston to get her hair cut, and we took the LONG way back). While we were driving, two church signs caught my eye.
1) We Don't Know You
Let me begin by saying that I understand their premise. They're trying to invite the community by letting them know that the church doesn't know who they are. THAT'S NOT THE COMMUNITY'S FAULT!!! As the body of Christ, we are commanded to go into all the world. The world is not commanded to "meet the church." Besides, what kind of message is that to outsiders? My first reaction was, "We don't know you, and we're not going to do anything about it." The church is not supposed to be about sitting on our hands, waiting for a lost world to come to us. We must get out of our comfy seats and "Do Work, Son!" What are we thinking?!
2) When the Last Trumpet Sounds, We'll Be Outta Here
Again, I understand the concept, but the concept is skewed. It's like we as Christians are sitting back, saying "Hey, lost world. We know what's happening to us when the world ends. What about you?" I guess that it's cool to ask that question, but by asking it without explaining where we're going, and how we're getting there, is crazy. For far too long, we've made the church uncomfortable for outsiders. While God's Word is uncomfortable at times (a lot of the time), we must do our best to make the atmosphere in which it is taught comfortable for everyone. What are we thinking?!
Let me add this: I'm not throwing-off on church's with signs. Put whatever you want to on your sign. Just be mindful of how it is perceived by EVERYONE. Just for laughs, I've added a video from the National Youth Workers Convention. Hope you enjoy!
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1) We Don't Know You
Let me begin by saying that I understand their premise. They're trying to invite the community by letting them know that the church doesn't know who they are. THAT'S NOT THE COMMUNITY'S FAULT!!! As the body of Christ, we are commanded to go into all the world. The world is not commanded to "meet the church." Besides, what kind of message is that to outsiders? My first reaction was, "We don't know you, and we're not going to do anything about it." The church is not supposed to be about sitting on our hands, waiting for a lost world to come to us. We must get out of our comfy seats and "Do Work, Son!" What are we thinking?!
2) When the Last Trumpet Sounds, We'll Be Outta Here
Again, I understand the concept, but the concept is skewed. It's like we as Christians are sitting back, saying "Hey, lost world. We know what's happening to us when the world ends. What about you?" I guess that it's cool to ask that question, but by asking it without explaining where we're going, and how we're getting there, is crazy. For far too long, we've made the church uncomfortable for outsiders. While God's Word is uncomfortable at times (a lot of the time), we must do our best to make the atmosphere in which it is taught comfortable for everyone. What are we thinking?!
Let me add this: I'm not throwing-off on church's with signs. Put whatever you want to on your sign. Just be mindful of how it is perceived by EVERYONE. Just for laughs, I've added a video from the National Youth Workers Convention. Hope you enjoy!
One more thing: thanks to Chris Thore for speaking at youth group on Wednesday. It was nice to have a little break before our next two series. Chris started SummerShine which is a servant-evangelism ministry at campground across the country. You can find-out more by visiting http://www.summershine.us/.
That Picture Stinks (1)
I was on our church's website earlier, and I visited the "staff" page. Holy cow! That picture of me is horrible. It was taken during the whole "Michelle thinks my hair would look better if I grew it out" phase. Ha ha! She was dead wrong on that one. I really need a new picture, but I don't feel like posing for Ted to make a new one.
Here's the deal. I'm going to hold a "pick the picture" contest. If you have a current picture of me (sorry, mom...you can't use an old one), send it to my email address (brian@mlbcgreer.com). On Monday (the 14th), I will post the pics that have been sent in, and YOU get to vote on my new staff picture for our website. Remember that I will have to receive approval to use the photo as my picture from Mark, so you probably should be tasteful. I'm willing to use just about anything because just about anything is better than that goofball picture that I have now. The winner of the contest will receive dinner on me!
Let's see if anyone is up to the challenge. Labels:
Here's the deal. I'm going to hold a "pick the picture" contest. If you have a current picture of me (sorry, mom...you can't use an old one), send it to my email address (brian@mlbcgreer.com). On Monday (the 14th), I will post the pics that have been sent in, and YOU get to vote on my new staff picture for our website. Remember that I will have to receive approval to use the photo as my picture from Mark, so you probably should be tasteful. I'm willing to use just about anything because just about anything is better than that goofball picture that I have now. The winner of the contest will receive dinner on me!
Let's see if anyone is up to the challenge. Labels:
Get Saved (0)
How many times have we heard that phrase in the context of church? How many times have I said that phrase in the context of church? When it is said, especially to outsiders, it can come across as pressure from someone who "knows better." Granted, the phrase is generally said with good intentions, but do we really consider what impact it has on those who hear it?
This topic is addressed in David Kinnaman's book Unchristian. I made mention a while back that I've only recently become a reader, and this is far and away one of the best that I've read. The book is based around research from the Barna Group that deals with society's perception (especially young adults) of Christianity. In the book, "...only 23% of young outsiders firmly perceive that Christianity offers them a 'hope for the future', and only one out of every seven strongly believes Christianity is 'genuine and real'." The church likes to think that it's just the world's perception, but we have a real issue here. We're doing a horrible job of showing others what the Christ-life is all about. The best evangelistic efforts are not those that reach a lot of people at once, rather the ones that are interpersonal and relationship based. Does this mean that we should stop preaching the Gospel? Absolutely not! However, we would see a lot more "response" to broad evangelistic efforts if we build relationships with others first.
I will admit that I've done a horrible job with this concept in the past. God has shown me where I've failed, and has given me a new direction when it comes to sharing the Gospel with someone. For instance, I've "targeted" three students who come to youth group every Wednesday. I know for a fact that they do not have relationship with Jesus (I know because I asked them). I've asked God to help me build relationships with them, which will give me the opportunity to show them God's love through my actions. As a result of growing these relationships, I'm praying that God will give me the vision to see opportunities to share the Gospel.
So, here's a challenge for today: Who do you know that is lost? Do you have a relationship with that person? It's great to see people that you've gotten close to accept God's gift of salvation, and it is an incredible feeling to know that you've followed Christ's command to "...go and make disciples..." Labels:
This topic is addressed in David Kinnaman's book Unchristian. I made mention a while back that I've only recently become a reader, and this is far and away one of the best that I've read. The book is based around research from the Barna Group that deals with society's perception (especially young adults) of Christianity. In the book, "...only 23% of young outsiders firmly perceive that Christianity offers them a 'hope for the future', and only one out of every seven strongly believes Christianity is 'genuine and real'." The church likes to think that it's just the world's perception, but we have a real issue here. We're doing a horrible job of showing others what the Christ-life is all about. The best evangelistic efforts are not those that reach a lot of people at once, rather the ones that are interpersonal and relationship based. Does this mean that we should stop preaching the Gospel? Absolutely not! However, we would see a lot more "response" to broad evangelistic efforts if we build relationships with others first.
I will admit that I've done a horrible job with this concept in the past. God has shown me where I've failed, and has given me a new direction when it comes to sharing the Gospel with someone. For instance, I've "targeted" three students who come to youth group every Wednesday. I know for a fact that they do not have relationship with Jesus (I know because I asked them). I've asked God to help me build relationships with them, which will give me the opportunity to show them God's love through my actions. As a result of growing these relationships, I'm praying that God will give me the vision to see opportunities to share the Gospel.
So, here's a challenge for today: Who do you know that is lost? Do you have a relationship with that person? It's great to see people that you've gotten close to accept God's gift of salvation, and it is an incredible feeling to know that you've followed Christ's command to "...go and make disciples..." Labels:
47-17, Seven Checkpoints, He's Back (0)
47-17...That was my final record for the NCAA Tournament. I picked two of the Final Four, those two played each other last night, and Kansas made me look like a genius! I have no idea why I'm so happy because I don't win anything for the bracket.
Seven Checkpoints...I've been re-reading this incredible book by Andy Stanley and Stuart Hall for the last couple of weeks. I've always blended concepts from this ministry model and Purpose Driven Youth Ministry for our youth ministry, but God showed me at the end of last year that we needed to have more focus. We were doing a lot of things well, but He wants us to do a few things great! With that in mind, I was drawn to the seven checkpoints that every teenager should know. I finished the book (again) yesterday, and was journaling my thoughts. A thought-provoking question is asked at the end of the last chapter: "Do you ( I added 'you') and your leaders teach or lead? The first couple of times that I read this book, I must have totally glossed-over when I came to this question. That is freakin' powerful! God began breaking my heart yesterday for the times that our leaders and I have just shown-up for an hour or so, and haven't lead by our examples. For those of us in ministry...it's not about teaching, showing-up, or even doing "this or that." It's about leading those that we serve into an intimate relationship with Jesus.
He's Back...My brother is once again blogging. He was wrong in his post from the beginning of March. It only took one month instead of two to post again. Anyway, he had a great post the other day, and I wanted to share it with you. For you MLBC folks, you'll recognize the "sock story." I told you that the Rhodeses are trend setters. By all means, watch the video. I got excited just listening to that kid! To read the post, CLICK HERE! Labels:
Seven Checkpoints...I've been re-reading this incredible book by Andy Stanley and Stuart Hall for the last couple of weeks. I've always blended concepts from this ministry model and Purpose Driven Youth Ministry for our youth ministry, but God showed me at the end of last year that we needed to have more focus. We were doing a lot of things well, but He wants us to do a few things great! With that in mind, I was drawn to the seven checkpoints that every teenager should know. I finished the book (again) yesterday, and was journaling my thoughts. A thought-provoking question is asked at the end of the last chapter: "Do you ( I added 'you') and your leaders teach or lead? The first couple of times that I read this book, I must have totally glossed-over when I came to this question. That is freakin' powerful! God began breaking my heart yesterday for the times that our leaders and I have just shown-up for an hour or so, and haven't lead by our examples. For those of us in ministry...it's not about teaching, showing-up, or even doing "this or that." It's about leading those that we serve into an intimate relationship with Jesus.
He's Back...My brother is once again blogging. He was wrong in his post from the beginning of March. It only took one month instead of two to post again. Anyway, he had a great post the other day, and I wanted to share it with you. For you MLBC folks, you'll recognize the "sock story." I told you that the Rhodeses are trend setters. By all means, watch the video. I got excited just listening to that kid! To read the post, CLICK HERE! Labels:
Looooooooooong Day (1)
Dang, I'm tired. Not having our men's Monday morning Bible Study at 6am the last two weeks really spoiled me. My 5am wake-up call came way too early; however, we had a great time. This is always the case, but when you wake-up that early, you start to wonder if it's worth it. Answer: yes.
It didn't help any that I had a rather stressful day of getting an estimate on car. See, I was in a little accident on Saturday(no, I didn't hit a bicyclist). Long story short: abrupt turns with no signal + wet roads = $2,600 worth of damage! It's all good. God's already working it out.
The day took another stressful turn when I went to the hospital to visit my Papa Mike. He was in an accident with a lawn mower on Thursday. Long story short: he spent a couple of hours trapped under his mower, and he now has a broken pelvis and ribs. Please pray for my grandfather. To the best of my knowledge, he is lost. I really feel like this could be a great time to share the Gospel with him. I tried to do this a couple of years ago, but he kept changing the subject. I went to the hospital this evening with the intent of talking to him about Christ, but between the pain meds and several trips to be x-rayed, he was wiped-out. Please pray that if I don't have the opportunity to talk to him, that someone will. I would love to know that I will see him in Heaven one day.
That's about it. I'm exhausted. Time to see if the Jayhawks can make me out to be a prophet. Labels:
It didn't help any that I had a rather stressful day of getting an estimate on car. See, I was in a little accident on Saturday(no, I didn't hit a bicyclist). Long story short: abrupt turns with no signal + wet roads = $2,600 worth of damage! It's all good. God's already working it out.
The day took another stressful turn when I went to the hospital to visit my Papa Mike. He was in an accident with a lawn mower on Thursday. Long story short: he spent a couple of hours trapped under his mower, and he now has a broken pelvis and ribs. Please pray for my grandfather. To the best of my knowledge, he is lost. I really feel like this could be a great time to share the Gospel with him. I tried to do this a couple of years ago, but he kept changing the subject. I went to the hospital this evening with the intent of talking to him about Christ, but between the pain meds and several trips to be x-rayed, he was wiped-out. Please pray that if I don't have the opportunity to talk to him, that someone will. I would love to know that I will see him in Heaven one day.
That's about it. I'm exhausted. Time to see if the Jayhawks can make me out to be a prophet. Labels:
Podcast Q & A (0)
I've had a few podcast questions recently, so I thought I would address them here.
1) Will the podcasts continue now that the series on sex has ended?
Yes. The "SHHH" series was the launching pad for our podcast. We felt that a series on sex would help ignite interest in the podcast that would carry-on after the five week series ended.
2)How long will the "SHHH" podcasts be available?
The podcasts themselves will be available for at least a month after the series is completed. This totally depends on how much free space we have with our host company at the end of each series. Once they are removed from the website, you will be able to request the talks in mp3 or CD format.
3)I don't have an Ipod. Can I still listen to the podcast?
Absolutely. The file is actually an mp3 file, so you can listen to it while connected to the internet, save it to your computer and listen to it, save it to your computer and burn it to a CD, or download it to your computer and add it to Itunes.
4)Have the podcasts been worthwhile?
Without a doubt! We've had students download them to reinforce what they heard on Wednesday night. There have been numerous students and adults download them because they couldn't be with us on Wednesday night, and there have been several people who have downloaded them just to hear what was going on. We're actually making CDs of the "SHHH" series for a missionary in Kenya. She wants to use them for a purity emphasis that Youth for Christ uses with teenagers in Africa!
5)Will there ever be video podcasts available?
Hopefully, but not in the immediate future. We want to focus on what we're doing now, and try to do it the best we can before moving-on to something else.
6)Why aren't the podcasts available through Itunes?
Because we haven't gotten to that point, yet. We are in the process of making the podcasts available for free through the Itunes store, but it is somewhat time consuming. The great part of them being on Itunes is that you can subscribe to the podcasts, and each time we add one they will be automatically downloaded by Itunes! We hope to have this process in place by the end of April.
1) Will the podcasts continue now that the series on sex has ended?
Yes. The "SHHH" series was the launching pad for our podcast. We felt that a series on sex would help ignite interest in the podcast that would carry-on after the five week series ended.
2)How long will the "SHHH" podcasts be available?
The podcasts themselves will be available for at least a month after the series is completed. This totally depends on how much free space we have with our host company at the end of each series. Once they are removed from the website, you will be able to request the talks in mp3 or CD format.
3)I don't have an Ipod. Can I still listen to the podcast?
Absolutely. The file is actually an mp3 file, so you can listen to it while connected to the internet, save it to your computer and listen to it, save it to your computer and burn it to a CD, or download it to your computer and add it to Itunes.
4)Have the podcasts been worthwhile?
Without a doubt! We've had students download them to reinforce what they heard on Wednesday night. There have been numerous students and adults download them because they couldn't be with us on Wednesday night, and there have been several people who have downloaded them just to hear what was going on. We're actually making CDs of the "SHHH" series for a missionary in Kenya. She wants to use them for a purity emphasis that Youth for Christ uses with teenagers in Africa!
5)Will there ever be video podcasts available?
Hopefully, but not in the immediate future. We want to focus on what we're doing now, and try to do it the best we can before moving-on to something else.
6)Why aren't the podcasts available through Itunes?
Because we haven't gotten to that point, yet. We are in the process of making the podcasts available for free through the Itunes store, but it is somewhat time consuming. The great part of them being on Itunes is that you can subscribe to the podcasts, and each time we add one they will be automatically downloaded by Itunes! We hope to have this process in place by the end of April.
BTW...the Week 5 podcast will be available on Saturday.
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Thoughts From A Day Off (0)
Thursdays are my day off, and generally, I spend that time with Michelle; however, she is working today :( Recently, it was asked why I rarely, if ever, schedule events for the youth on Thursdays, and my response was "Thursdays are sacred." See, Michelle and I only have one full day a week to spend together. See works every Saturday, and regardless of what anyone thinks, Sunday is pretty busy. I take each Thursday very seriously because, other than Jesus Christ, there is no one that I love more than my wife. So, if you're thinking that I don't schedule events on Thursday just because it's my day off, you're missing the point. Thursdays are our day, and I'm very thankful that we have that.
Last night was great. We continue to have guests every week, which is awesome. While we've been talking about sex, our attendance has been incredible, but it's the response of our youth and adults that has me excited. Last night we talked about what to do with the knowledge that we've gained over the last five weeks. After worship was over, we had several youth thank some of our leaders and myself for dealing with this subject. We also had a couple of students talk to us about how to fall more in love with Jesus than the people they are dating. That stuff is evidence that God has been at work the last five weeks.
One more thought...TV shows were incredible during the eighties. I've just spent part of my morning watching Magnum P.I., the Cosby Show, and Knight Rider (I've been up for a while). If I can just find the A-Team somewhere, I'll be set. Labels:
Last night was great. We continue to have guests every week, which is awesome. While we've been talking about sex, our attendance has been incredible, but it's the response of our youth and adults that has me excited. Last night we talked about what to do with the knowledge that we've gained over the last five weeks. After worship was over, we had several youth thank some of our leaders and myself for dealing with this subject. We also had a couple of students talk to us about how to fall more in love with Jesus than the people they are dating. That stuff is evidence that God has been at work the last five weeks.
One more thought...TV shows were incredible during the eighties. I've just spent part of my morning watching Magnum P.I., the Cosby Show, and Knight Rider (I've been up for a while). If I can just find the A-Team somewhere, I'll be set. Labels:
The Last Week of "SHHH" (a little delayed) (1)
I don't know why this didn't post on Wednesday. Sorry.
Tonight will be the last week of our series on sex. God has already done some amazing things in the lives of students and adults, and I can't wait to see what happens tonight. I'll be talking about what to do with what we've learned. I'm really keyed-up just thinking about tonight. Please pray that the students will be open and accepting of what the Holy Spirit is speaking to them about.
Tonight will also be the unveiling of our next series, "Follow the Leader." We will be studying Jesus' example of humility. This is an area of my life that I have had struggles with. Since Michelle's miscarriage in January, God has really shown me how much of an issue I had. When the idea of this topic was presented during a leadership meeting, it was like God smacked on the back of my head and said, "Here's your chance to see if you've really learned something." This one is gonna be all God. I'm really excited about April 16th.
There is one more thing that will take place tonight: we will begin giving-out tickets for "The Anti-Prom." The event will take place on May 10th, and is open to any student in grades 6-12 who are not going to Blue Ridge High School's Prom. Tickets are free, so make sure you pick your's up tonight.
I'm normally the "pranker" on April Fool's Day, but this year I was the "prankee." Well played Miss King. Well played. Labels:
Tonight will be the last week of our series on sex. God has already done some amazing things in the lives of students and adults, and I can't wait to see what happens tonight. I'll be talking about what to do with what we've learned. I'm really keyed-up just thinking about tonight. Please pray that the students will be open and accepting of what the Holy Spirit is speaking to them about.
Tonight will also be the unveiling of our next series, "Follow the Leader." We will be studying Jesus' example of humility. This is an area of my life that I have had struggles with. Since Michelle's miscarriage in January, God has really shown me how much of an issue I had. When the idea of this topic was presented during a leadership meeting, it was like God smacked on the back of my head and said, "Here's your chance to see if you've really learned something." This one is gonna be all God. I'm really excited about April 16th.
There is one more thing that will take place tonight: we will begin giving-out tickets for "The Anti-Prom." The event will take place on May 10th, and is open to any student in grades 6-12 who are not going to Blue Ridge High School's Prom. Tickets are free, so make sure you pick your's up tonight.
I'm normally the "pranker" on April Fool's Day, but this year I was the "prankee." Well played Miss King. Well played. Labels:
God Is Incredible (0)
I could throw fifteen exclamation points at the end of that title and it would not do it justice. I just read one of the greatest blog posts of all-time. If you don't know this family, get to know them. I'm choked-up just typing this, so just follow the link below.
GOD IS INCREDIBLE! Labels:
GOD IS INCREDIBLE! Labels:
I Need Sunshine (1)
That's what I've been hearing from my wife for the last week. Recently, her Facebook status claimed that she needed sunshine to get going. I've been aggravating her for the last few days. This morning, when she made the same statement again, I asked her if she is solar powered.
After a quick laugh, God began to use the conversation to teach me a couple of things. First, as Christians, we should be solar powered. I'm not talking about the light from the sun, but THE SON. OK. I know that was very "church sign-ish," but it really does make sense. There are so many times in scripture where Jesus is compared to light. Light vs darkness and the light of the world are only a couple of them. Our lives must be exposed to this Light on a daily basis in order to be what He wants us to be, and do what He wants us to do. Secondly, I realized that there are a lot of times when I don't expose myself to the Son the way I should, and must run on stored-up battery power. See, anything that is solar powered has a battery that is charged by sunlight. When the sun is bright, the battery stores this energy for a cloudy day (night time too). God showed me that there are times when I use the stored-up energy that I've received from His Word instead of basking in His constant light. Why? Because I want to do things on my own, I think I know a better way, or because I want to take credit for something. With a constant supply of "light," why should I ever try to depend on battery power?
I love my wife, and God has blessed me with a mate who encourages me everyday. Today, she did so without even realizing what she had done. Dang, I'm lucky! Labels:
After a quick laugh, God began to use the conversation to teach me a couple of things. First, as Christians, we should be solar powered. I'm not talking about the light from the sun, but THE SON. OK. I know that was very "church sign-ish," but it really does make sense. There are so many times in scripture where Jesus is compared to light. Light vs darkness and the light of the world are only a couple of them. Our lives must be exposed to this Light on a daily basis in order to be what He wants us to be, and do what He wants us to do. Secondly, I realized that there are a lot of times when I don't expose myself to the Son the way I should, and must run on stored-up battery power. See, anything that is solar powered has a battery that is charged by sunlight. When the sun is bright, the battery stores this energy for a cloudy day (night time too). God showed me that there are times when I use the stored-up energy that I've received from His Word instead of basking in His constant light. Why? Because I want to do things on my own, I think I know a better way, or because I want to take credit for something. With a constant supply of "light," why should I ever try to depend on battery power?
I love my wife, and God has blessed me with a mate who encourages me everyday. Today, she did so without even realizing what she had done. Dang, I'm lucky! Labels:
