Today is the 3rd time in the 3 weeks that the NFL has had to move the Minnesota Vikings scheduled game. Dome roof caving in, game in Detroit, outdoor game at U of M and now blizzard moves the game with Philly to Tuesday.
Really... this is really strange. Especially today. Many games have been played in really bad snow weather. Is the NFL getting soft?
Plus the Packer vs Giants game is really the more important and exciting game to watch. It should have been the one moved to Sunday Night.
One more strange thing. Farve has hung in for the season. 20 years actively playing in the NFL. The non-stop game starting streak ended this year, and he still wants keep playing and playing. This morning on NFL.com, Farves former QB coach and best friends directly tells Farve to "Hang it up".
Yeah it's a strange, strange year.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
One year ago
Amazing how time passes by. One year ago, God was leading me and the other leaders of Journey on an amazing and fast paced adventure in regards to opening up our dream outreach / coffeehouse. Man what a race it was with God. Here we are a year later and so many great things have happened for God's glory and honor, yet we are not totally where we had hoped to be either.
Adventures with God are rarely in a straight line or easy. However, they are very fulfilling and worth it. Being in the Uturn building now is simply humbling, the potential is still far, far from being fully seen or tapped into. Yet, there is so much to celebrate already. As we reflect on a year gone by with the Uturn project, we enter into 2011 knowing that we are planning to plant our second daughter church. So the adventure does not stop. We will advance and continue to improve Uturn while helping Josh and his family prepare for a fall 2011 launch of New Life Church.
What will we be saying this time next year?
Adventures with God are rarely in a straight line or easy. However, they are very fulfilling and worth it. Being in the Uturn building now is simply humbling, the potential is still far, far from being fully seen or tapped into. Yet, there is so much to celebrate already. As we reflect on a year gone by with the Uturn project, we enter into 2011 knowing that we are planning to plant our second daughter church. So the adventure does not stop. We will advance and continue to improve Uturn while helping Josh and his family prepare for a fall 2011 launch of New Life Church.
What will we be saying this time next year?
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Peace on Earth?
Each Christmas season we re-read the scriptures and hear how the angels broke through the night skies and declared... “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!
“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” (Luke 2:10,14)
So our Savior has arrived and now we get “Peace on Earth”.
What great news. No more war, famine, unruly children, no financial crisis.
If that was what the angels were announcing 2,000 years ago.... am I the only one confused and not seeing this “Peace on Earth”?
Plus what really makes things extra confusing is when Jesus says.... “Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! (Luke 12:51)
What?
Jesus.... the Prince of Peace did not come to bring the earth peace like the angels said?
What... Jesus came to divide people? Where is the love, joy and peace of Christmas that I’ve always heard of?
Could it be that we have heard the angels saying something that they did not say.
Yes, I fully believe that they declared “Peace on Earth”,. but the did not declare that everything would be fixed, made right or even restored. They simple said “Peace on Earth” had arrived. What actually arrived was God, in human form, as a child. Jesus had arrived. Jesus is the peace we seek. But it’s not what we thing.
I think Jesus explained the gift of peace best when he said.... “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27)
Peace on Earth comes when we know the “Prince of Peace” personally. As you get to really know Jesus, he brings clarity, order, peace of mind to your crazy life. The world may still be spinning out of control, but by knowing Jesus... you stop spinning out of control. With Jesus in your life you can lay your head on the pillow and sleep, in-spite the car payment being late, the kids not having good grades, or your job being on the line.
With all the great Christmas songs at this time of year, maybe it’s a secular song by the classic group Boston that nails what the angels were trying to say best.
"I understand about indecision
But I don't care if I get behind
People livin' in competition
All I want is to have my peace of mind." (Peace of Mind- Boston)
“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” (Luke 2:10,14)
So our Savior has arrived and now we get “Peace on Earth”.
What great news. No more war, famine, unruly children, no financial crisis.
If that was what the angels were announcing 2,000 years ago.... am I the only one confused and not seeing this “Peace on Earth”?
Plus what really makes things extra confusing is when Jesus says.... “Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! (Luke 12:51)
What?
Jesus.... the Prince of Peace did not come to bring the earth peace like the angels said?
What... Jesus came to divide people? Where is the love, joy and peace of Christmas that I’ve always heard of?
Could it be that we have heard the angels saying something that they did not say.
Yes, I fully believe that they declared “Peace on Earth”,. but the did not declare that everything would be fixed, made right or even restored. They simple said “Peace on Earth” had arrived. What actually arrived was God, in human form, as a child. Jesus had arrived. Jesus is the peace we seek. But it’s not what we thing.
I think Jesus explained the gift of peace best when he said.... “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27)
Peace on Earth comes when we know the “Prince of Peace” personally. As you get to really know Jesus, he brings clarity, order, peace of mind to your crazy life. The world may still be spinning out of control, but by knowing Jesus... you stop spinning out of control. With Jesus in your life you can lay your head on the pillow and sleep, in-spite the car payment being late, the kids not having good grades, or your job being on the line.
With all the great Christmas songs at this time of year, maybe it’s a secular song by the classic group Boston that nails what the angels were trying to say best.
"I understand about indecision
But I don't care if I get behind
People livin' in competition
All I want is to have my peace of mind." (Peace of Mind- Boston)
Monday, November 15, 2010
What if we were honest?
This week we continued exploring “What if...” at Journey.
Week one we looked into “What if we Cared?”, this week we built on that and went deeper into “What if we were honest”
Yeah.... Honesty.
Like Billy Joel wrote and sang....
“Honesty is such a lonely word.
Everyone is so untrue.
Honesty is hardly ever heard.
And mostly what I need from you.”
Amazing how we want people to be honest with us, yet we so often find it hard to be honest with others. I believe we as Christians especially long for honesty, yet it’s really hard to live out. In fact, real honesty within Christian circles is extremely hard to live out. It’s always been that way. Why because once we have Christ in our lives, once we have let God move back into our lives, somehow we have been told, or it’s implied... “PUT ON A HAPPY FACE”. After all God saved you and you’re free so everything has to be better.
In Jesus time... the religious leaders were the best at keeping up their image, appearances and happy face. This is also the group that Jesus spoke out against the most passionately. Jesus exposed the religious leaders, the Pharisees, Sadducees and Priest HYPROCISY. We often give the religious leaders a bad rap in Jesus day. After all Jesus publicly calls many of them, not all of them as HYPOCRITES. Do you know where the term HYPOCRITE came from? A Hypocrite as actor. The actor would hide behind a mask and play their role out. The goal... was to have the audience see and believe that the man and the mask were one and the same. A great hypocrite could change masks and have the audience believe he was now someone else.
Sad to say, but many of us are Modern Day PHARISEE HYPOCRITES. I wonder how many of us well intentioned Christians, juggle several masks at the same-time? Hyprocisy is an attempt to escape the pain, embarrassment and discomfort that comes with the sin in our lives.
Hypocrisy is all about IMAGE.
When we try and keep up appearances, our image, it gets to be exhausting. Image vs Honesty is a real big battle for many of us. It is especially hard for religious people. As religious people we have been shown and told, put on a smile, let others see how good you are.... but don’t you dare take the mask off.
One of the strongest emotions in our lives is fear. Fear blocks honesty.... actually fear is the arch-enemy of honesty.
What if we were honest means that our image can not be more important that building and having real, authentic, relationships. Instead of fear blocking us, we need to become more transparent with those closest to us. To be really honest, we must get honest with God, ourselves and then others. Because the real issue is not the many masks we wear, but the condition of our heart.
Jeremiah the OT Prophet understood this issues as he wrote. Jeremiah 17:9-10
9 “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things,
and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
10 But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives.
I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.”
Until get real, honest and expose our ugly sinful hearts, we can’t be really honest with anyone. Not even ourselves. How important is honesty to you? How important is integrity to you? Don’t wait for someone to be honesty with you, start first with being honest with God and yourself. It’s amazing how dangerous and yet freeing honesty can be.
Week one we looked into “What if we Cared?”, this week we built on that and went deeper into “What if we were honest”
Yeah.... Honesty.
Like Billy Joel wrote and sang....
“Honesty is such a lonely word.
Everyone is so untrue.
Honesty is hardly ever heard.
And mostly what I need from you.”
Amazing how we want people to be honest with us, yet we so often find it hard to be honest with others. I believe we as Christians especially long for honesty, yet it’s really hard to live out. In fact, real honesty within Christian circles is extremely hard to live out. It’s always been that way. Why because once we have Christ in our lives, once we have let God move back into our lives, somehow we have been told, or it’s implied... “PUT ON A HAPPY FACE”. After all God saved you and you’re free so everything has to be better.
In Jesus time... the religious leaders were the best at keeping up their image, appearances and happy face. This is also the group that Jesus spoke out against the most passionately. Jesus exposed the religious leaders, the Pharisees, Sadducees and Priest HYPROCISY. We often give the religious leaders a bad rap in Jesus day. After all Jesus publicly calls many of them, not all of them as HYPOCRITES. Do you know where the term HYPOCRITE came from? A Hypocrite as actor. The actor would hide behind a mask and play their role out. The goal... was to have the audience see and believe that the man and the mask were one and the same. A great hypocrite could change masks and have the audience believe he was now someone else.
Sad to say, but many of us are Modern Day PHARISEE HYPOCRITES. I wonder how many of us well intentioned Christians, juggle several masks at the same-time? Hyprocisy is an attempt to escape the pain, embarrassment and discomfort that comes with the sin in our lives.
Hypocrisy is all about IMAGE.
When we try and keep up appearances, our image, it gets to be exhausting. Image vs Honesty is a real big battle for many of us. It is especially hard for religious people. As religious people we have been shown and told, put on a smile, let others see how good you are.... but don’t you dare take the mask off.
One of the strongest emotions in our lives is fear. Fear blocks honesty.... actually fear is the arch-enemy of honesty.
What if we were honest means that our image can not be more important that building and having real, authentic, relationships. Instead of fear blocking us, we need to become more transparent with those closest to us. To be really honest, we must get honest with God, ourselves and then others. Because the real issue is not the many masks we wear, but the condition of our heart.
Jeremiah the OT Prophet understood this issues as he wrote. Jeremiah 17:9-10
9 “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things,
and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
10 But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives.
I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.”
Until get real, honest and expose our ugly sinful hearts, we can’t be really honest with anyone. Not even ourselves. How important is honesty to you? How important is integrity to you? Don’t wait for someone to be honesty with you, start first with being honest with God and yourself. It’s amazing how dangerous and yet freeing honesty can be.
Monday, November 08, 2010
“refrigerator rights”
This weekend we started a new message series at Journey called “What if?...” It’s a discussion series based on dreams and idea, on what our churches and lives may be like if we were more like the first century church.
Week number one focused on “What if we really cared for one another?”
Have you ever heard of a book called “REFRIGERATOR RIGHTS”
It’s a title of a book that came out a couple of years ago. The writer describes people who have this amazing thing in common called, “Refrigerator Rights” I have enjoyed these rights with several people over the course of my life. It’s an amazing thing to give “refrigerator rights” to someone or receive them. What I am talking about is when you can walk into another persons home, open up the frig and make yourself at home. Make anything, eat or drink anything you want. No hesitation. “What’s mine is yours and what’s yours is mine.”
It’s an amazing and freeing thing to enjoy with friends that are like family.
The church was originally designed to enjoy “REFRIGERATOR RIGHT” as away of showing and being a real caring community / family.
42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper),and to prayer.
43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47)
Do you see the “REFRIGERATOR RIGHTS” of the early Church? These people shared everything they had at it was based out of their homes.
And did it with great joy and generosity.
They couldn’t help but live this ways.
Refrigerator Rights was not the rare thing in the early church, it was the norm. It was the standard by which Jesus followers demonstrated how much they really cared for one another.
This type of caring is not forced, manufactured, manipulated. This type of caring family, laughs.... I mean really laughs and has fun. This type of caring family, gets real with one another.
This family both celebrates and experiences life's pains together. Note this type of caring community of family is contagious.
It was powerful, it electric and attracted more and more people.
They added to their numbers daily.
But more than that. They weren’t just adding “friends” like we do on Facebook or Twitter. They added daily to those that were being saved.
More and more people came to trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior partially because of how amazing this caring community of people were.
Ask yourself, “What if I really cared like this? How different would your life, your family, your friends life be?
If you are a follower of Jesus.... how more alive and amazing would your church be. What would it be like to extend refrigerator rights to those in your church or small group. Might we experience some of what the early church experienced? Might we see people come to faith daily.
Ask yourself.... What if I really cared?
Week number one focused on “What if we really cared for one another?”
Have you ever heard of a book called “REFRIGERATOR RIGHTS”
It’s a title of a book that came out a couple of years ago. The writer describes people who have this amazing thing in common called, “Refrigerator Rights” I have enjoyed these rights with several people over the course of my life. It’s an amazing thing to give “refrigerator rights” to someone or receive them. What I am talking about is when you can walk into another persons home, open up the frig and make yourself at home. Make anything, eat or drink anything you want. No hesitation. “What’s mine is yours and what’s yours is mine.”
It’s an amazing and freeing thing to enjoy with friends that are like family.
The church was originally designed to enjoy “REFRIGERATOR RIGHT” as away of showing and being a real caring community / family.
42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper),and to prayer.
43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47)
Do you see the “REFRIGERATOR RIGHTS” of the early Church? These people shared everything they had at it was based out of their homes.
And did it with great joy and generosity.
They couldn’t help but live this ways.
Refrigerator Rights was not the rare thing in the early church, it was the norm. It was the standard by which Jesus followers demonstrated how much they really cared for one another.
This type of caring is not forced, manufactured, manipulated. This type of caring family, laughs.... I mean really laughs and has fun. This type of caring family, gets real with one another.
This family both celebrates and experiences life's pains together. Note this type of caring community of family is contagious.
It was powerful, it electric and attracted more and more people.
They added to their numbers daily.
But more than that. They weren’t just adding “friends” like we do on Facebook or Twitter. They added daily to those that were being saved.
More and more people came to trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior partially because of how amazing this caring community of people were.
Ask yourself, “What if I really cared like this? How different would your life, your family, your friends life be?
If you are a follower of Jesus.... how more alive and amazing would your church be. What would it be like to extend refrigerator rights to those in your church or small group. Might we experience some of what the early church experienced? Might we see people come to faith daily.
Ask yourself.... What if I really cared?
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Saturated in Grace
Often we wonder if God can still love me, want me or forgive me. We believe that at some point we have gone beyond his grace. That feeling is really a lie. A lie generated by our own feelings and thoughts, or by our enemy Satan.
The truth is that God’s Grace can never be revoked, once given by God it covers us forever. The trouble is that we don’t let that grace saturate our lives and really have the desired effect. Think about a steak. Some people simply like their steak cooked up and served, Others love to marinate their meat. Those that marinate their steaks often let it stay drenched in their special recipe for hours or maybe even a day or two.
The idea is that the longer the meat is marinated, the deeper the marinade penetrates flavoring and tenderizing the meat. Once marinated, covered in the special recipe, the two can never be separated. The only question is how long and saturated will the meat become?
So it is with God’s grace. This process of being saturated and marinated by God never ends, it is a life-long process. Once covered in the “blood of the lamb” (Jesus Christ), you can never be uncovered. The only question is, how saturated or flavored by God’s special recipe of peace, patience, love, joy, kindness, forgiveness, do you want to be?
How “flavored by God is your life?
The truth is that God’s Grace can never be revoked, once given by God it covers us forever. The trouble is that we don’t let that grace saturate our lives and really have the desired effect. Think about a steak. Some people simply like their steak cooked up and served, Others love to marinate their meat. Those that marinate their steaks often let it stay drenched in their special recipe for hours or maybe even a day or two.
The idea is that the longer the meat is marinated, the deeper the marinade penetrates flavoring and tenderizing the meat. Once marinated, covered in the special recipe, the two can never be separated. The only question is how long and saturated will the meat become?
So it is with God’s grace. This process of being saturated and marinated by God never ends, it is a life-long process. Once covered in the “blood of the lamb” (Jesus Christ), you can never be uncovered. The only question is, how saturated or flavored by God’s special recipe of peace, patience, love, joy, kindness, forgiveness, do you want to be?
How “flavored by God is your life?
Monday, October 11, 2010
NO-Confidence in Leadership
Last night I watch the 49er’s take on the Eagles on Sunday Night Football.
Over all not a bad game. In the end Philly beat San Fran 27-24.
What was interesting was what happened late late in the game between the 49ers head coach (Mile Singletary) and their starting QB Alex Smith.
Smith was having one of those up and down nights, but at several critical times he fumbled, and threw interceptions or simple couldn’t get the job done.
The fans were getting restless, having not gotten a win all season.
The coach was getting more and more frustrated.
And the team itself appeared to be loosing confidence in thier QB.
During a commercial break the cameras caught Smith and Singletary “talking things out” . It was clear the QB’s night was done. Confidence in their leader was lost.
But then amazingly, Smith went back in to the game, helped lead the team to two more TD’s and made some great plays. (pass, run, scramble). Confidence in the leader was not only back but riding high. Plus it all happened in just a few plays.
The niners sill lost the game, but it reminded me of how fragile and crazy this thing called leadership is and can be. One minute you’re the “man”, the next (or so it seems) you’re loosing the confidence of your team (other leaders, friends, family, etc.) You may even be benched or on he verge of “going down”.
Moments like these are tough. For moments like this there is no real simple way to fix and repair the confidence of others in your leadership abilities. It could be any combination of things, over a period of time that brings you and your team to call a “time out” and have one of those talks on the side lines. From my own personal experiences in leadership, these talks are never fun, but they are highly valuable and needed at times.
What does it take to loose confidence in a leaders? What does it take to regain or repair that confidence?
How do you navigate it when some “believe in the leader” and others don’t?
When is it best to let things “Play out a little longer”, while staying committed to the rest of the team and hoping and praying the leader gets back in the groove?
I don’t have the answers. I just hope and pray that when these drops in confidence of a leader come (and they will), that there is plenty of love, grace and forgiveness.
Over all not a bad game. In the end Philly beat San Fran 27-24.
What was interesting was what happened late late in the game between the 49ers head coach (Mile Singletary) and their starting QB Alex Smith.
Smith was having one of those up and down nights, but at several critical times he fumbled, and threw interceptions or simple couldn’t get the job done.
The fans were getting restless, having not gotten a win all season.
The coach was getting more and more frustrated.
And the team itself appeared to be loosing confidence in thier QB.
During a commercial break the cameras caught Smith and Singletary “talking things out” . It was clear the QB’s night was done. Confidence in their leader was lost.
But then amazingly, Smith went back in to the game, helped lead the team to two more TD’s and made some great plays. (pass, run, scramble). Confidence in the leader was not only back but riding high. Plus it all happened in just a few plays.
The niners sill lost the game, but it reminded me of how fragile and crazy this thing called leadership is and can be. One minute you’re the “man”, the next (or so it seems) you’re loosing the confidence of your team (other leaders, friends, family, etc.) You may even be benched or on he verge of “going down”.
Moments like these are tough. For moments like this there is no real simple way to fix and repair the confidence of others in your leadership abilities. It could be any combination of things, over a period of time that brings you and your team to call a “time out” and have one of those talks on the side lines. From my own personal experiences in leadership, these talks are never fun, but they are highly valuable and needed at times.
What does it take to loose confidence in a leaders? What does it take to regain or repair that confidence?
How do you navigate it when some “believe in the leader” and others don’t?
When is it best to let things “Play out a little longer”, while staying committed to the rest of the team and hoping and praying the leader gets back in the groove?
I don’t have the answers. I just hope and pray that when these drops in confidence of a leader come (and they will), that there is plenty of love, grace and forgiveness.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
On Mission
Last night we held our second Monday Night Football party at Uturn. Over all the evening was a “success”. More people came then the week before and new relationship continued starting to form. But last evening was a night that confirmed our mission is beginning to take root and to have a bigger impact in our city.
Yesterday afternoon tragedy stuck the Rochester Skate Park and a local family as a 19 year old committed suicide at the park. He shot himself. How sad that one so young choose to end his life. Yet that tragedy is the very thing that gave another local pastor the chance the use Uturn for something greater. Pastor Dave of Harvest church got the call regarding the suicide, he then spent several hours talking with his son and other young men that were having to deal with news, and lose of a friend. The “friends” were not all friends of each other, but they had the common friendship with the young man that killed himself. Dave heard their cries and their desire to be together. The problem was, where is there a safe place for all of them to meet? Dave invited them all to Uturn and Monday NIght Football. Mid-way through the first quarter they began to arrive. In all at least 12 young men came, talked, shared, cried, ate CiCi’s Pizza, watched football, shot pool and found a new safe place to hang and connect.
At such a tragic moment it was exciting to serve those in need at Uturn. It was exciting to see God use another Pastor and Harvest Church to use Uturn for a larger than life moment.
This was not about one church, or one ministry. It wasn’t even about one person. It was about the Kingdom of God, churches serving together because our city, it’s youth were hurting and in need. Praise God for how He is taking this dream and already using it to connect churches, serve our city and provide hope for the hurting.
We are on mission, the target is clear, the tools are being put into place each week and getting used more and more. I pray that many more catch the vision and that we see God move in powerful ways each time we open these doors to the city! I invite you to join the adventure.
Yesterday afternoon tragedy stuck the Rochester Skate Park and a local family as a 19 year old committed suicide at the park. He shot himself. How sad that one so young choose to end his life. Yet that tragedy is the very thing that gave another local pastor the chance the use Uturn for something greater. Pastor Dave of Harvest church got the call regarding the suicide, he then spent several hours talking with his son and other young men that were having to deal with news, and lose of a friend. The “friends” were not all friends of each other, but they had the common friendship with the young man that killed himself. Dave heard their cries and their desire to be together. The problem was, where is there a safe place for all of them to meet? Dave invited them all to Uturn and Monday NIght Football. Mid-way through the first quarter they began to arrive. In all at least 12 young men came, talked, shared, cried, ate CiCi’s Pizza, watched football, shot pool and found a new safe place to hang and connect.
At such a tragic moment it was exciting to serve those in need at Uturn. It was exciting to see God use another Pastor and Harvest Church to use Uturn for a larger than life moment.
This was not about one church, or one ministry. It wasn’t even about one person. It was about the Kingdom of God, churches serving together because our city, it’s youth were hurting and in need. Praise God for how He is taking this dream and already using it to connect churches, serve our city and provide hope for the hurting.
We are on mission, the target is clear, the tools are being put into place each week and getting used more and more. I pray that many more catch the vision and that we see God move in powerful ways each time we open these doors to the city! I invite you to join the adventure.
Thursday, September 09, 2010
NFL season begins tonight
Tonight the Vikes play the Saints to kick off the NFL regular season. All my life the Packers have been #1 and the Vikes #2 in my heart. Sad to say he two teams will not be neck and neck as they were last season. I want to make two predictions today.
#1 - Packers will win it all this year. Regular season could be a even a 12-4 year. (For sure 11-5) Rogers has a great team on both sides of the ball and they are young but maturing fast.
#2 - Farve will step out by the end of game #1 (yes tonight) or game #2.
Farve was begged to come back and his heart is there there anymore. Reality has caught up with him. His mind and arm can play, his body can't do a full season. Plus he really us the "old man" of the team and can't relate to all the kids on the field. He's a man from another time.
I have loved Farve play for so many years. The gunslinger has a hear of 12 yr old, but the body of a 40 yr old. Sad to say, but I think even he know really, really knows he is hanging on for all the wrong reasons.
So there you have it. My Kick-off thoughts for another season. Now play ball and let's see some long passes and hard hits already.
#1 - Packers will win it all this year. Regular season could be a even a 12-4 year. (For sure 11-5) Rogers has a great team on both sides of the ball and they are young but maturing fast.
#2 - Farve will step out by the end of game #1 (yes tonight) or game #2.
Farve was begged to come back and his heart is there there anymore. Reality has caught up with him. His mind and arm can play, his body can't do a full season. Plus he really us the "old man" of the team and can't relate to all the kids on the field. He's a man from another time.
I have loved Farve play for so many years. The gunslinger has a hear of 12 yr old, but the body of a 40 yr old. Sad to say, but I think even he know really, really knows he is hanging on for all the wrong reasons.
So there you have it. My Kick-off thoughts for another season. Now play ball and let's see some long passes and hard hits already.
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
New series and prep
I am knee deep in reading, studying and preparing for our next message series. Actually, I started this process on this series months ago, but am now really fleshing it out in greater detail. "EXIT- journey to freedom" is a series of talks exploring the life of Moses and the Exodus of God's people from Slavery to the Promised Land.
There are so many practical and timely life lesson in this Old Testiment book, plus there are so many great promises of God and foreshadow moments about the coming Messiah (Jesus).
At times message prep and planning are boring and hard to stay focused on. This is not one of those times. This is flowing and flowing and that gives me hope that God is preparing me and Journey Church for an amazing fall. I am pumped, because I see a lot of my own life struggles in Moses and many God-appointed as well.
So prepare yourselves for a great adventure with God. Prepare to have a fresh expreience with the God that sets the captives free.
There are so many practical and timely life lesson in this Old Testiment book, plus there are so many great promises of God and foreshadow moments about the coming Messiah (Jesus).
At times message prep and planning are boring and hard to stay focused on. This is not one of those times. This is flowing and flowing and that gives me hope that God is preparing me and Journey Church for an amazing fall. I am pumped, because I see a lot of my own life struggles in Moses and many God-appointed as well.
So prepare yourselves for a great adventure with God. Prepare to have a fresh expreience with the God that sets the captives free.
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
More than back to school
Today marked the end of summer, at least summer time activities.
It’s a very exciting and strange day for me.
Today Cyndi and i only had two kids heading out the door for school.
Abbi completed High School last May and today she did not have to walk unto Mayo High School. As strange as is for me to experience this, I wonder how strange it is for Abbi to experience this. Sarah and Hannah are now in 7th grade. I so many ways they are already taking care of themselves and Cyndi and I simply take care of the “big stuff” and help navigate life with them.
It’s an exciting and strange day at the Bontrager’s.
At the same time, I am so happy that summer is over. It has been a very strange summer for our church family. So many distractions it seems. It felt like a summer of disconnect at one level, and yet there were many new connections made of over the summer months.
I am ready to see what a “normal” rhythm of life is like for our leadership team and church family. I am excited to see where God leads us next. The Uturn is getting more active all the time and we have a church planter in the mix fir 2011. That’s a lot of exciting stuff.
So on a personal level..... back to school is stranger than normal this fall.
On ministry level.... back to school is hopefully a time of growth and stability.
It’s a very exciting and strange day for me.
Today Cyndi and i only had two kids heading out the door for school.
Abbi completed High School last May and today she did not have to walk unto Mayo High School. As strange as is for me to experience this, I wonder how strange it is for Abbi to experience this. Sarah and Hannah are now in 7th grade. I so many ways they are already taking care of themselves and Cyndi and I simply take care of the “big stuff” and help navigate life with them.
It’s an exciting and strange day at the Bontrager’s.
At the same time, I am so happy that summer is over. It has been a very strange summer for our church family. So many distractions it seems. It felt like a summer of disconnect at one level, and yet there were many new connections made of over the summer months.
I am ready to see what a “normal” rhythm of life is like for our leadership team and church family. I am excited to see where God leads us next. The Uturn is getting more active all the time and we have a church planter in the mix fir 2011. That’s a lot of exciting stuff.
So on a personal level..... back to school is stranger than normal this fall.
On ministry level.... back to school is hopefully a time of growth and stability.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Peter-Pan Faith
Peter Pan Faith
There is a growing problem in our world today, a moment in time that is becoming harder and harder for young people to face. It’s the transition from being a young person and becoming a young adult. If you have seen the movie “Toy Story 3” you have a good picture of what I am talking about. Young Andy is about to go off to college and he is struggling with what to do with his box of toys. Does he throw them all away, does he store them in the attic, does he take them to college with him. Andy is caught. It’s a very tough and scary moment when we begin letting go of our childish ways.
But the problem is not the tension of this moment, it’s actually the moment when young adults return home, unpack their stuff and retreat from adulthood. It’s called the “BOOMERANG” effect. Young people try the adult world and decide, “it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be.” So revert back to what they know and that is childish behavior.
The same tension and problem exist for many of us in the Christian faith. The same moment in time exist and it’s not easy. Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. 17 I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:16-17)
So being “like a child” is actually ok, in fact according to Jesus having a childlike faith is vital.
But in Hebrews (and other places) we are challenged to grow up. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. (Heb. 5:12-14)
You see it appears that we can’t stay like children forever, we are taught to grow up, mature in our faith and play a larger role in the mission of God.
The trouble is we have many “Boomerang” believers or “Peter-Pan” type Christians who want to stay young forever. That may sound cute or fun, but it’s a very serious matter. You see the struggle is to protect some of the great child-like qualities (awe, wonder, trust, honesty, passion, even imagination or dreams) without being “childish”. Is it possible that too many of us are pretending to be mature believers, when in fact are childish believers. What are we afraid of? Is it possible to be a “Mature Jesus follower” and still have “Child-like faith”?
I believe so, and I believe it can be liberating and freeing thing.
There is a growing problem in our world today, a moment in time that is becoming harder and harder for young people to face. It’s the transition from being a young person and becoming a young adult. If you have seen the movie “Toy Story 3” you have a good picture of what I am talking about. Young Andy is about to go off to college and he is struggling with what to do with his box of toys. Does he throw them all away, does he store them in the attic, does he take them to college with him. Andy is caught. It’s a very tough and scary moment when we begin letting go of our childish ways.
But the problem is not the tension of this moment, it’s actually the moment when young adults return home, unpack their stuff and retreat from adulthood. It’s called the “BOOMERANG” effect. Young people try the adult world and decide, “it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be.” So revert back to what they know and that is childish behavior.
The same tension and problem exist for many of us in the Christian faith. The same moment in time exist and it’s not easy. Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. 17 I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:16-17)
So being “like a child” is actually ok, in fact according to Jesus having a childlike faith is vital.
But in Hebrews (and other places) we are challenged to grow up. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong. (Heb. 5:12-14)
You see it appears that we can’t stay like children forever, we are taught to grow up, mature in our faith and play a larger role in the mission of God.
The trouble is we have many “Boomerang” believers or “Peter-Pan” type Christians who want to stay young forever. That may sound cute or fun, but it’s a very serious matter. You see the struggle is to protect some of the great child-like qualities (awe, wonder, trust, honesty, passion, even imagination or dreams) without being “childish”. Is it possible that too many of us are pretending to be mature believers, when in fact are childish believers. What are we afraid of? Is it possible to be a “Mature Jesus follower” and still have “Child-like faith”?
I believe so, and I believe it can be liberating and freeing thing.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
GET-ER DONE
Today I am overwhelmed by God’s provision, let me explain.
Over the last several weeks Journey has experienced a dry spell in giving and focused energy to complete Uturn (Coffee-shop / Outreach Center). I understand that it’s natural for projects to have both high and low points, but knowing it doesn’t make it any less frustrating.
God has been providing for us in amazing ways all through this project. It has grown and challenged us all in so many ways. Just at the right moment( often the last minute) God has provided the funds, volunteers and supplies to move forward with this God-size dream.
And now during this lull, God has done it again!
Journey has received a $5,000 gift to help complete the various things that must be done to help get Uturn open to the public. But that’s not all.
The donor would love to give even more, but they would like to see who else really believes in this city-wide dream and ministry.
So a challenge has been given to us.
If Journey (friends, family, co-workers, other donors) can generate at least another $5,000, then this donor will add another $5,000 to their gift making it a total of $10,000! Combined we can raise at least $15,000.
God is so good. Just when we needed a big boost, He provided one and then some.
So we invite you to rise to the challenge. Personally give toward Uturn.
Spread the word to friends, family, anyone that may have a heart for this city-wide ministry. Remember it’s not about Journey it’s about the city and God’s greater kingdom.
You may give via our Website and Razoo. Click on the icon found on our front page.
www.journeychurch.net
You may give via mail.
Send checks to Journey Church, 5-11 1/2 St. SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Or drop by and give a donation as you visit Uturn.
Over the next few weeks, our focus will be to improve the event center area of Uturn and begin using it ASAP. Having events at Uturn will continue to raise awareness, allow us to serve our city and raise more funds to complete the coffee bar area, meet Health Department guidelines, and clean up some construction bills, etc.
Look for the Billboard out front to change in the next few weeks, and a Uturn sign displayed above the main entrance. Along with carpet, flooring, sound proofing and more to be completed.
You can make a big difference right now. You can helps us “GET-ER DONE”.
$5,000 + $5,000 + $5,000 = GET-ER DONE
God is already at work. As I write this we have already received over $500 towards the $5,000 challenge. Praise God with us and join the adventure as we move forward with fresh energy, focus and commitment.
God bless,
Pastor Rich
507-398-6517
Over the last several weeks Journey has experienced a dry spell in giving and focused energy to complete Uturn (Coffee-shop / Outreach Center). I understand that it’s natural for projects to have both high and low points, but knowing it doesn’t make it any less frustrating.
God has been providing for us in amazing ways all through this project. It has grown and challenged us all in so many ways. Just at the right moment( often the last minute) God has provided the funds, volunteers and supplies to move forward with this God-size dream.
And now during this lull, God has done it again!
Journey has received a $5,000 gift to help complete the various things that must be done to help get Uturn open to the public. But that’s not all.
The donor would love to give even more, but they would like to see who else really believes in this city-wide dream and ministry.
So a challenge has been given to us.
If Journey (friends, family, co-workers, other donors) can generate at least another $5,000, then this donor will add another $5,000 to their gift making it a total of $10,000! Combined we can raise at least $15,000.
God is so good. Just when we needed a big boost, He provided one and then some.
So we invite you to rise to the challenge. Personally give toward Uturn.
Spread the word to friends, family, anyone that may have a heart for this city-wide ministry. Remember it’s not about Journey it’s about the city and God’s greater kingdom.
You may give via our Website and Razoo. Click on the icon found on our front page.
www.journeychurch.net
You may give via mail.
Send checks to Journey Church, 5-11 1/2 St. SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Or drop by and give a donation as you visit Uturn.
Over the next few weeks, our focus will be to improve the event center area of Uturn and begin using it ASAP. Having events at Uturn will continue to raise awareness, allow us to serve our city and raise more funds to complete the coffee bar area, meet Health Department guidelines, and clean up some construction bills, etc.
Look for the Billboard out front to change in the next few weeks, and a Uturn sign displayed above the main entrance. Along with carpet, flooring, sound proofing and more to be completed.
You can make a big difference right now. You can helps us “GET-ER DONE”.
$5,000 + $5,000 + $5,000 = GET-ER DONE
God is already at work. As I write this we have already received over $500 towards the $5,000 challenge. Praise God with us and join the adventure as we move forward with fresh energy, focus and commitment.
God bless,
Pastor Rich
507-398-6517
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Inspection
In the next 24 to 48 hrs we hope to have our "final" inspection done so that we can move Journey in for Sunday the April 18th. It's strange that we have done all this work, we have followed all the requirements, had countless volunteers and professionals work so hard and yet.... we still must wait on another to approve us.
Our fate for this weekend ultimately lays in the hands of a man.
A employee of the city and county.
Placing your trust in another can be really tough.... especially after pouring so much of yourself out in the process. Yet, placing your trust in another can be big step of faith and growth. As we wait on this inspector to actually come through the building, we are praying and praying for all things to pass and go well. This inspection process has actually helped us cry out to God even more and build our faith.
So I encourage you to join us as we pray for this important inspector and our human efforts.
Our fate for this weekend ultimately lays in the hands of a man.
A employee of the city and county.
Placing your trust in another can be really tough.... especially after pouring so much of yourself out in the process. Yet, placing your trust in another can be big step of faith and growth. As we wait on this inspector to actually come through the building, we are praying and praying for all things to pass and go well. This inspection process has actually helped us cry out to God even more and build our faith.
So I encourage you to join us as we pray for this important inspector and our human efforts.
Friday, April 02, 2010
Good Friday
"And the sky was as black as night"
This afternoon we had one heck of a rain storm roll through Rochester.
It git really dark, the winds picked up and the rain came pounding down for a while.
I was intense.
Over 2,000 years ago it was a black as night at 3 p.m.
Just as Jesus stated, "IT IS FINISHED" Not only did the sky change... everything changed. Our freedom from sin, death and eternal separation from God changed. All because of one perfect man dying a brutal death on a cross.
I wonder how dark it really was.
How dark did it get before there was really a fresh new light?
It's always darkest before the dawn.", the old saying goes.
Remember Good Friday and how dark it got, and prepare yourself for a new amazing dawn called Resurrection Sunday or Easter.
This afternoon we had one heck of a rain storm roll through Rochester.
It git really dark, the winds picked up and the rain came pounding down for a while.
I was intense.
Over 2,000 years ago it was a black as night at 3 p.m.
Just as Jesus stated, "IT IS FINISHED" Not only did the sky change... everything changed. Our freedom from sin, death and eternal separation from God changed. All because of one perfect man dying a brutal death on a cross.
I wonder how dark it really was.
How dark did it get before there was really a fresh new light?
It's always darkest before the dawn.", the old saying goes.
Remember Good Friday and how dark it got, and prepare yourself for a new amazing dawn called Resurrection Sunday or Easter.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Walls go up at Uturn
Monday March 30th a team of dry wall hangers came in and hung sheet rock at the Uturn. This guys really rocked (no pun intended). With the walls framed in, you can now see how the building will be taking shape. What a transformation step.
Next taping, mudding, sanding and then painting on Saturday.
By the way, this part of the project is another exciting gift from professional that do this sort of work daily. What a gift! A BIG YEAH God for what they have done, given, and will finish off.
With the walls going up, we move to our next step in getting the Uturn ready for Journey to move into.... Bathrooms must be set up. Check out the updated Razoo donation page and see how you can help us purchase these items in a timely fashion. The time is now, so that we can purchase, install and get inspected ASAP.
Our new goal to have Journey at Uturn is April 18th. Please help us reach the target.
http://www.razoo.com/story/Journey-Church-Of-Rochester-Minnesota
Next taping, mudding, sanding and then painting on Saturday.
By the way, this part of the project is another exciting gift from professional that do this sort of work daily. What a gift! A BIG YEAH God for what they have done, given, and will finish off.
With the walls going up, we move to our next step in getting the Uturn ready for Journey to move into.... Bathrooms must be set up. Check out the updated Razoo donation page and see how you can help us purchase these items in a timely fashion. The time is now, so that we can purchase, install and get inspected ASAP.
Our new goal to have Journey at Uturn is April 18th. Please help us reach the target.
http://www.razoo.com/story/Journey-Church-Of-Rochester-Minnesota
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Green Zone
Last night I went and saw the new Matt Damion film, "Green Zone".
First of all don't waste your time on it. It's falsely marketed and a very anti-American film. Now I don't normally get to hung up on people "sharing their view points" in film making. Everyone has a story to tell, and we all see life through a different lens at times. But this was not just another lens, it as a clear anti-American, specifically anti- President George Bush film
Before you jump on the idea, I'm so Republican I can't take some hard "truth".... that's not it. Each president, each political party has it's own pros and cons. Ever administration has made giant mistakes, buried lots of skeletons in the closets, and each one has made some great choices for our country. So I can handle seeing where Bush or any President messed up. After all... we are all sinners.
No this film went extra lengths to paint our country and it's leaders as stupid, irresponsible, puppet masters for our own gain and then actually working a secret deal with Saddam's right hand man. Plus it painted the picture that army, CIA, presidents advisers were not on the same page, cover ups and hidden agendas were everywhere and the big one.... American lives and honor didn't matter.
If I where in the military today serving our country I would take offense for such a picture being painted. Especially as the conflict is not over and our troops are still there.
I'm all for a good "blow um up movie"
I'm all for a film that is a "what if" this or that may have happened."
I'm all for even "exposing the truth" in a film.
But at least make it a good film, at least be honest in how you promote it.
GREEN ZONE could have been a good film.... rather it's a big miss fire.
Damion and his buddies should have simply done the next Bourne movie.
First of all don't waste your time on it. It's falsely marketed and a very anti-American film. Now I don't normally get to hung up on people "sharing their view points" in film making. Everyone has a story to tell, and we all see life through a different lens at times. But this was not just another lens, it as a clear anti-American, specifically anti- President George Bush film
Before you jump on the idea, I'm so Republican I can't take some hard "truth".... that's not it. Each president, each political party has it's own pros and cons. Ever administration has made giant mistakes, buried lots of skeletons in the closets, and each one has made some great choices for our country. So I can handle seeing where Bush or any President messed up. After all... we are all sinners.
No this film went extra lengths to paint our country and it's leaders as stupid, irresponsible, puppet masters for our own gain and then actually working a secret deal with Saddam's right hand man. Plus it painted the picture that army, CIA, presidents advisers were not on the same page, cover ups and hidden agendas were everywhere and the big one.... American lives and honor didn't matter.
If I where in the military today serving our country I would take offense for such a picture being painted. Especially as the conflict is not over and our troops are still there.
I'm all for a good "blow um up movie"
I'm all for a film that is a "what if" this or that may have happened."
I'm all for even "exposing the truth" in a film.
But at least make it a good film, at least be honest in how you promote it.
GREEN ZONE could have been a good film.... rather it's a big miss fire.
Damion and his buddies should have simply done the next Bourne movie.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Empty Tanks
I have a confession to make today.
EVEN MY GAS TANK GETS EMPTY.
Yup, even I can get so dry, toasted, used up that I really feel the depth and weight of ministry. It is not easy for me to get this empty. But this last Sunday night and most of Monday I was as about as empty as I have been in almost.... forever (no the last six years).
This emptiness has happened for several reasons:
First - the intense nature of daily minister is one thing, add a building project onto that and man you're bound to feel it more.
Second - four days at an Assessment Center... very intense and deeply spiritual and spiritual warfare atmosphere. Well worth it all...but man it takes a lot out of you. That's why I had Andy speak this week.... thanks buddy.
Third - Family. With three teenage girls, one about to graduate... man the home life calendar gets so full. I am blessed to have a great life partner / wife (Cyndi) help navigate all of that.
Fourth - The last few months I have had to deal with some personal loses, and in recent days.... some very personal attacks. In life you know this will happen, in ministry the enemy uses these events and turns them into spiritual warfare things.
Really intense at times and deeply personal.
I share all of this and reflect on who I am. I am driven by God, and my passion to use every day as best that I can for Him. I will not (even after all of this) stop going at Warp Factor 6. But I will try and stay alert more. I will try and guard myself in certain areas and ways. Plus, I will continue to learn how to use others better and better as a team.
Gas is expensive these days. Refueling an empty tank gets costly. It hits the wallet big time. The same is true for my (our) emotionally, physical and spiritual tanks.
It takes more and more to get it refueled. It's very costly and some have fallen off because they can't really recover from their break downs after running to long on an Empty Tank.
Guard your tank.
I'm a not saying STOP and sit.
Rather watch the gauges of life, don't push it the "E" line. Find time to regularly get fresh ed and refueled.
EVEN MY GAS TANK GETS EMPTY.
Yup, even I can get so dry, toasted, used up that I really feel the depth and weight of ministry. It is not easy for me to get this empty. But this last Sunday night and most of Monday I was as about as empty as I have been in almost.... forever (no the last six years).
This emptiness has happened for several reasons:
First - the intense nature of daily minister is one thing, add a building project onto that and man you're bound to feel it more.
Second - four days at an Assessment Center... very intense and deeply spiritual and spiritual warfare atmosphere. Well worth it all...but man it takes a lot out of you. That's why I had Andy speak this week.... thanks buddy.
Third - Family. With three teenage girls, one about to graduate... man the home life calendar gets so full. I am blessed to have a great life partner / wife (Cyndi) help navigate all of that.
Fourth - The last few months I have had to deal with some personal loses, and in recent days.... some very personal attacks. In life you know this will happen, in ministry the enemy uses these events and turns them into spiritual warfare things.
Really intense at times and deeply personal.
I share all of this and reflect on who I am. I am driven by God, and my passion to use every day as best that I can for Him. I will not (even after all of this) stop going at Warp Factor 6. But I will try and stay alert more. I will try and guard myself in certain areas and ways. Plus, I will continue to learn how to use others better and better as a team.
Gas is expensive these days. Refueling an empty tank gets costly. It hits the wallet big time. The same is true for my (our) emotionally, physical and spiritual tanks.
It takes more and more to get it refueled. It's very costly and some have fallen off because they can't really recover from their break downs after running to long on an Empty Tank.
Guard your tank.
I'm a not saying STOP and sit.
Rather watch the gauges of life, don't push it the "E" line. Find time to regularly get fresh ed and refueled.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Converge Assesment March 2010
So after a crazy day traveling I have arrived in Orlando,FL for a four day Assesment Center Experience. This is true an amazing process and one that has dramatically helped both our church planters and spouses be even more "sucessful" in fulfilling God's call on their lives.
As I arrive here, I clearly remember our assesment experience almost 8 years ago. (man how time flies) But as I arrive here I am also processing two fellow church planters and their churches that are either closing or looking new pastors. Both of these churches started close to same time that Journey Church in Rochester did. Both of the churches jumped to life way faster than ours did. Both had great men of faith, supported spouses and dedicated people to their specific mission. Yet their time in those particular settings has come to an end.
That's one thing about church planting... you have to be really comfortable risking. Because you never know what God has in mind for each planter or church family.
So tonight I am excited and humbled to gathering together with other pastors and leaders to watch, listen, study and see what God's Holy Spirit may say about each of the eight canidates that have stepped out in faith to be here.
8 years ago Cyndi and I really had no idea how this was all going to work out.
Today we still have no idea how it's all going to work out.
And is both still very exciting and very scary!
As my friends close down their church plants... I am confident that God used them and their churches in mighty ways. "For everything there is a season" the scriptures say.
Tuesday, may begin a whole new season for 8 couples.... even as my friends begin to see what new season they are moving into.
I may be in sunny Florida, in Orlando but it's not fun and sun that has called me here. It's God and his ever expanding Kingdom.
So please join with me a pray for this entire process.
Let's see what God may do next with some willing hearts and risk takers.
As I arrive here, I clearly remember our assesment experience almost 8 years ago. (man how time flies) But as I arrive here I am also processing two fellow church planters and their churches that are either closing or looking new pastors. Both of these churches started close to same time that Journey Church in Rochester did. Both of the churches jumped to life way faster than ours did. Both had great men of faith, supported spouses and dedicated people to their specific mission. Yet their time in those particular settings has come to an end.
That's one thing about church planting... you have to be really comfortable risking. Because you never know what God has in mind for each planter or church family.
So tonight I am excited and humbled to gathering together with other pastors and leaders to watch, listen, study and see what God's Holy Spirit may say about each of the eight canidates that have stepped out in faith to be here.
8 years ago Cyndi and I really had no idea how this was all going to work out.
Today we still have no idea how it's all going to work out.
And is both still very exciting and very scary!
As my friends close down their church plants... I am confident that God used them and their churches in mighty ways. "For everything there is a season" the scriptures say.
Tuesday, may begin a whole new season for 8 couples.... even as my friends begin to see what new season they are moving into.
I may be in sunny Florida, in Orlando but it's not fun and sun that has called me here. It's God and his ever expanding Kingdom.
So please join with me a pray for this entire process.
Let's see what God may do next with some willing hearts and risk takers.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Not just another day
This morning we cut a check for just under $5,000... not something I (we) do everyday. We cut the cut the check knowing that it almost wipes out our building fund. But we do this in faith, not reckless behavior. God has provided just what we needed, as we need each step of this process. Not any less or any more.
We are living on faith... not a bank account.
This morning I received an e-mail with an attachment. KNLW 98.8 FM has decided to create and run a radio ad for FREE that promotes our upcoming fundraiser at CiCi's pizza. (Tuesday, March 9 from 5-8 p.m.) Amazing!!! The event has been planned for awhile and we have been promoting it as best as we can. Our goal was to raise funds and spread the word on this city-wide mission. Now, God works through KNLW radio and increases our promotion output just as we almost break the bank.
It's not just another day... it's another faith builder day.
Tonight is Vision Night for Journey. A night to share some of the details of where we are going in 2010 (and beyond) as a church family. A day of challenge, call to commitment, personal investment, and budget growth as our country slowly climbs out of a bad recession. A night of faith building.
It's not just another day.... it's day where I hope people really catch the dream, can see God leading and desire nothing more to join with God on a wild mission.
It's only 8:25 a.m.
What more can happen today, that did not happen yesterday?
We are living on faith... not a bank account.
This morning I received an e-mail with an attachment. KNLW 98.8 FM has decided to create and run a radio ad for FREE that promotes our upcoming fundraiser at CiCi's pizza. (Tuesday, March 9 from 5-8 p.m.) Amazing!!! The event has been planned for awhile and we have been promoting it as best as we can. Our goal was to raise funds and spread the word on this city-wide mission. Now, God works through KNLW radio and increases our promotion output just as we almost break the bank.
It's not just another day... it's another faith builder day.
Tonight is Vision Night for Journey. A night to share some of the details of where we are going in 2010 (and beyond) as a church family. A day of challenge, call to commitment, personal investment, and budget growth as our country slowly climbs out of a bad recession. A night of faith building.
It's not just another day.... it's day where I hope people really catch the dream, can see God leading and desire nothing more to join with God on a wild mission.
It's only 8:25 a.m.
What more can happen today, that did not happen yesterday?
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Days of Nehemiah
God rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem rebuilt in 52 days... the tools used were... Vision, passion, sacrifice, prayer, a and people of faith.
It's been an amazing start to 2010!
Personally I am in awe of how God has cleared the way, and provided for us an amazing place to reach our city for his glory. It has been but a God-size miracle to receive financial gifts, donations and volunteer time from so many people. As I write this more pounding and hammering us going on here at the U-turn.
Demo and Renovation are an amazing process.
Yet there is so much more that needs to be done.
We are just now about to enter into the most costly part of the built-old process.
At this moment we do not have the funds to pay for all that needs, must be done.
Yet.... we press forward in faith that God will provide.
God provides by using men and women to give sacrificially, generously and ridiculously. I know that money does not grow on trees, but it does hide in wallets.
Read the book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament. See how his heart hurt so badly for his city. How a vision was born. How a call to give, serve, invest at a crazy level was put forward. Read how skeptics came forward to shoot down the vision. And read how God did the impossible in 52 days!
I am thrilled, humbled and amazed to be with a group of people, a church family, that is reliving the days of Nehemiah. If you ever wanted to be apart of a God-size movement. If you've ever wanted to see God-do the impossible.... I invite you to join the adventure. Give like crazy, give so that others may come to know Christ.
Give so that in a short span of time a building can be renovated, and become a nee light to the city. May God be glorified.
It's been an amazing start to 2010!
Personally I am in awe of how God has cleared the way, and provided for us an amazing place to reach our city for his glory. It has been but a God-size miracle to receive financial gifts, donations and volunteer time from so many people. As I write this more pounding and hammering us going on here at the U-turn.
Demo and Renovation are an amazing process.
Yet there is so much more that needs to be done.
We are just now about to enter into the most costly part of the built-old process.
At this moment we do not have the funds to pay for all that needs, must be done.
Yet.... we press forward in faith that God will provide.
God provides by using men and women to give sacrificially, generously and ridiculously. I know that money does not grow on trees, but it does hide in wallets.
Read the book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament. See how his heart hurt so badly for his city. How a vision was born. How a call to give, serve, invest at a crazy level was put forward. Read how skeptics came forward to shoot down the vision. And read how God did the impossible in 52 days!
I am thrilled, humbled and amazed to be with a group of people, a church family, that is reliving the days of Nehemiah. If you ever wanted to be apart of a God-size movement. If you've ever wanted to see God-do the impossible.... I invite you to join the adventure. Give like crazy, give so that others may come to know Christ.
Give so that in a short span of time a building can be renovated, and become a nee light to the city. May God be glorified.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Church planter potential
Today was exciting and special. It was another chance to sit and talk with a possible church planter for the SE Region. The SE region of Minnesota has so many cities that don't have a vibrant evangelical church / faith community within them. It has been a forgotten or untapped area of our church movement over the years. Smaller, mid-size cities present an entirely different challenge for pastors and leaders to establish a new church plant.
It does not mean that it can't be done, it simply takes a uniquely gifted person that understands smaller / mid-size city life and has a vision and passion to serve in an often close knit community.
Today was exciting to hear and see a man (family) that may be called of God to relocate and take on the challenge of planting in such an environment. Days like today, are simply inspiring to me. They lift me up and make me want to see God mountains.
So here we are again, exploring uncharted territory with a potential church planter.
So let's see what happens this time.
Let's see if some new begins in SE Minnesota in 2010 & 2011.
It does not mean that it can't be done, it simply takes a uniquely gifted person that understands smaller / mid-size city life and has a vision and passion to serve in an often close knit community.
Today was exciting to hear and see a man (family) that may be called of God to relocate and take on the challenge of planting in such an environment. Days like today, are simply inspiring to me. They lift me up and make me want to see God mountains.
So here we are again, exploring uncharted territory with a potential church planter.
So let's see what happens this time.
Let's see if some new begins in SE Minnesota in 2010 & 2011.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
On the Job Training
There is always something to new to learn in life it's been said... and I totally agree.
I minister from the school of life, not a seninary of special university. Walking through life with God, reading his word and applying it to my life has taught me more than any formal eduaction ever could.
Right now, the "classroom" pf ministry, life, growth, dependence on God and deep water faith is at an on time high. I and never thought it could get higher than launching a church plant almost 6 years ago. But a the church a grown, God has continued to bring bigger, deeper even more amazing dreams and plans into my head and heart.
There is no script for this stuff.
You either trust God, follow, or get out of ministry.
I am willing to look like a fool for God.
I am willing to try what appears to impossible by human standards.
I just will never have a clear cut plan, pre-laid out process or clear dead-line of how it all plays out. I leave that totally to God, so that I may simply be a willing servant, teacher, leader and fellow sojourner with people.
God's hands on training transformed fishermen into world leaders and teachers.
I pray that I pass the training and testing of his "school" and leave a mark for God long after I am gone. I am so glad that God always has more room in his classroom. Open enrolement is awesome!
I minister from the school of life, not a seninary of special university. Walking through life with God, reading his word and applying it to my life has taught me more than any formal eduaction ever could.
Right now, the "classroom" pf ministry, life, growth, dependence on God and deep water faith is at an on time high. I and never thought it could get higher than launching a church plant almost 6 years ago. But a the church a grown, God has continued to bring bigger, deeper even more amazing dreams and plans into my head and heart.
There is no script for this stuff.
You either trust God, follow, or get out of ministry.
I am willing to look like a fool for God.
I am willing to try what appears to impossible by human standards.
I just will never have a clear cut plan, pre-laid out process or clear dead-line of how it all plays out. I leave that totally to God, so that I may simply be a willing servant, teacher, leader and fellow sojourner with people.
God's hands on training transformed fishermen into world leaders and teachers.
I pray that I pass the training and testing of his "school" and leave a mark for God long after I am gone. I am so glad that God always has more room in his classroom. Open enrolement is awesome!
U-Turn on KNLW and Facebook
The excitement continues to grow and expand as we move forward with the U-turn remodel project. Go is announcing this new ministry in so many creative ways it blows me away.
Today a Facebook page was launched to act a hub in the social circles of peoples lives.
On day one over 40 accepted in and added it to their facebook profile.
Way exciting.
KNLW interviewed me today and will be airing a 3 min piece on the dreams and plans of the U-turn. Thanks Ken and Betsy.
There is such a buzz already and it's no where near ready to open.
Praise Godm, I open we all can continue to keep up with God's pace on this.
Today a Facebook page was launched to act a hub in the social circles of peoples lives.
On day one over 40 accepted in and added it to their facebook profile.
Way exciting.
KNLW interviewed me today and will be airing a 3 min piece on the dreams and plans of the U-turn. Thanks Ken and Betsy.
There is such a buzz already and it's no where near ready to open.
Praise Godm, I open we all can continue to keep up with God's pace on this.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
U-Turn makes Post-Bullitin twice!
Here are two links to articles that ran in the weekend paper of the Post-Bulletin Saturday, Jan, 16th, 2010. Praise God for 2 1/2 pages of press and a great write up.
Thanks Matt Russel and the PB team.
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=434081
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=31&a=434086
If you want to donate financially to help this dream come alive.... go to this link.
Your tax free donation will make a radical difference in the life of a city and thousands of people.
http://www.razoo.com/story/Journey-Church-Of-Rochester-Minnesota
Thanks Matt Russel and the PB team.
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=434081
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=31&a=434086
If you want to donate financially to help this dream come alive.... go to this link.
Your tax free donation will make a radical difference in the life of a city and thousands of people.
http://www.razoo.com/story/Journey-Church-Of-Rochester-Minnesota
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Words
Sometimes it amazes me how powerful words can be.
Powerful in both a positive and negative way.
For most of my life I have made living with words. As a professional broadcaster, youth leader and the last several years as a pastor/ teacher/ leader.
Words often paint pictures, help people connect, cast vision, and bring about emotional responses. Words can inspire, irritate and hurt people... no matter if you meant to or not.
"Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can never hurt you" is a an out right lie. Words are powerful, can do great damage, and often can cost you a lot.
But what bothers mean the most about words is... when you think you are trying your best to communicate and yet your words confuse people. The wrong, or unintentional word picture gets created, comes across and things spin out of control. It's at these times that the emotional response inflames things faster than a forest fire on a windy day. When these times happen, the confusion of words and intentions creates crazy responses from people. I have been both the confused crazy one and the confused communicator many times. We all have.
Jesus was an amazing communicator... yet so many were confused by what he was really trying to say. Many responded "crazy" because of how they heard and interrupted his words. Ultimately Jesus words became a threat to others that were also trying to teach and communicate. A war of words grew and grew.
Yet, as amazing as a communicator as Jesus was, I don't believe it was his words that really spoke the loudest.
IT WAS HIS ACTIONS BEHIND, BEYOND THE WORDS THAT SPOKE VOLUMES.
Action clarifies intentions, dreams, and plans.
Where words confuse and confound.... action adds definition.
So if my words every confuse, confound or even get you angry. I hope and pray that my actions, intentions and heart speak volumes more than my choice of words.
You see it's not if I will miss-speak or be miss-heard, but rather how often will it happen and what will happen because of it.
Powerful in both a positive and negative way.
For most of my life I have made living with words. As a professional broadcaster, youth leader and the last several years as a pastor/ teacher/ leader.
Words often paint pictures, help people connect, cast vision, and bring about emotional responses. Words can inspire, irritate and hurt people... no matter if you meant to or not.
"Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words can never hurt you" is a an out right lie. Words are powerful, can do great damage, and often can cost you a lot.
But what bothers mean the most about words is... when you think you are trying your best to communicate and yet your words confuse people. The wrong, or unintentional word picture gets created, comes across and things spin out of control. It's at these times that the emotional response inflames things faster than a forest fire on a windy day. When these times happen, the confusion of words and intentions creates crazy responses from people. I have been both the confused crazy one and the confused communicator many times. We all have.
Jesus was an amazing communicator... yet so many were confused by what he was really trying to say. Many responded "crazy" because of how they heard and interrupted his words. Ultimately Jesus words became a threat to others that were also trying to teach and communicate. A war of words grew and grew.
Yet, as amazing as a communicator as Jesus was, I don't believe it was his words that really spoke the loudest.
IT WAS HIS ACTIONS BEHIND, BEYOND THE WORDS THAT SPOKE VOLUMES.
Action clarifies intentions, dreams, and plans.
Where words confuse and confound.... action adds definition.
So if my words every confuse, confound or even get you angry. I hope and pray that my actions, intentions and heart speak volumes more than my choice of words.
You see it's not if I will miss-speak or be miss-heard, but rather how often will it happen and what will happen because of it.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Zoning and Planning Appeals Board
Tonight we make our appeal to the county Zoning and Planning Board on our proposed Outreach Center location. Parking has been the last remaining giant that needs fall and clear the way for our long standing dream. We have done all that can humanly do.
Now it sits in the hands of God, the appeals board and the neighborhood.
Will they catch the vision and see how it will be a positive light for a neighborhood that desires to shine better for our city and region?
Will they see and hear the love we have for our city?
Will they understand that this bigger than one church?
God has lead us at lighting speed and has cleared so many paths. Almost daily over the last month I have, or others on our taskforce have received e-mails, phonecalls of people wanting to volunteer, donate and help. It has been amazing to see God go before us.
Tonight is a big night!
Will it be the giant that becomes bigger than we thought? Or will it be just another in a long line that falls, and shows more of God's glory and power?
I am confident that this giant will fall with a loud thud, which is followed by a big cheer towards the heavens for God. I invite you to pray and listen with us.
It's a big night, but we follow and serve a BIG GOD. THE GOD OF GIANT KILLERS!
Now it sits in the hands of God, the appeals board and the neighborhood.
Will they catch the vision and see how it will be a positive light for a neighborhood that desires to shine better for our city and region?
Will they see and hear the love we have for our city?
Will they understand that this bigger than one church?
God has lead us at lighting speed and has cleared so many paths. Almost daily over the last month I have, or others on our taskforce have received e-mails, phonecalls of people wanting to volunteer, donate and help. It has been amazing to see God go before us.
Tonight is a big night!
Will it be the giant that becomes bigger than we thought? Or will it be just another in a long line that falls, and shows more of God's glory and power?
I am confident that this giant will fall with a loud thud, which is followed by a big cheer towards the heavens for God. I invite you to pray and listen with us.
It's a big night, but we follow and serve a BIG GOD. THE GOD OF GIANT KILLERS!
Monday, January 04, 2010
It's the end of the world... and I feel fine!
Christmas is over.
Once again we have prepared and explored the first coming of the Messiah.
The First Advent was all about God living a perfect, spotless life, revealing his deep love for us, and willing sacrificing Himself for us.
But before we move too fast, let’s stop and explore the second coming of God.
We live as the people of the Israel lived before Jesus was born. We live in the gap, between his first arrival and his return. But will we be caught by surprise, just as they were when Christ returns?
We are starting a new series this exploring the book of Revelation.
A book that deals with some mysterious and disturbing stuff. But over all it focuses on the second advent. Jesus ultimate return as KING JESUS.
Where you really explore the book of revelation, there is lots of hope.
We get glimpse of eternity with God.
That’s powerful stuff.
Yet most of us are afraid when we hear words like “end times”, “tribulation” and apocalypse. So as we start this series of hope I’m curious as to what your thoughts, fears and questions are regarding Revelations and Jesus return.
In order to make this series as practical as possible I want to search for the answers in light of the most common questions that we may have. Any questions, thoughts, fears.... let’s hear them now.
But remember, this is not a series to add to your fears but to bring HOPE to all.
Re-read Revelation 1:3 over and over again.
Remember that God promises us a blessing if we read, study and share what is recorded in John’s vision from Christ Jesus.
Are you excited about the second coming of Christ? or are you afraid?
The First Advent was all about God living a perfect, spotless life, revealing his deep love for us, and willing sacrificing Himself for us.
But before we move too fast, let’s stop and explore the second coming of God.
We live as the people of the Israel lived before Jesus was born. We live in the gap, between his first arrival and his return. But will we be caught by surprise, just as they were when Christ returns?
We are starting a new series this exploring the book of Revelation.
A book that deals with some mysterious and disturbing stuff. But over all it focuses on the second advent. Jesus ultimate return as KING JESUS.
Where you really explore the book of revelation, there is lots of hope.
We get glimpse of eternity with God.
That’s powerful stuff.
Yet most of us are afraid when we hear words like “end times”, “tribulation” and apocalypse. So as we start this series of hope I’m curious as to what your thoughts, fears and questions are regarding Revelations and Jesus return.
In order to make this series as practical as possible I want to search for the answers in light of the most common questions that we may have. Any questions, thoughts, fears.... let’s hear them now.
But remember, this is not a series to add to your fears but to bring HOPE to all.
Re-read Revelation 1:3 over and over again.
Remember that God promises us a blessing if we read, study and share what is recorded in John’s vision from Christ Jesus.
Are you excited about the second coming of Christ? or are you afraid?
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