You never know who is in the crowd

We say it over and over with our leadership team, we pray and ask God to prepare us each Sunday to serve and love each newcomer, regular attender. “Any given Sunday, we have no idea who is in the crowd.”

It has taken me two days to put something to paper about the tragic suicide on Sunday afternoon (9-20-09). Plans had been made for me to meet with Chad and Stephanie Fisher, along with a seeking friend....Brent. Brent was Chad’s twin sister (Candi) ex-boyfriend, father of their young son. Brent and Candi had met while both living a life consumed by Meth. Both had become clean in recent years and had begun to put pieces of life back together in a healthier way.

Both were seekers of sorts.

Brent had begun to ask lots of spiritual / faith questions of Chad. 
Saturday, Brent helped several people from Journey paint Dave Reynolds home.
Sunday, Brent attended our Sunday morning gathering at the Chateau Theaters.
 This Sunday we continued our series on Forgiveness.... the real “f” word and focused on forgiving the offender. How do you forgive someone that has really hurt you.
We showed a media clip from an independent film called “THE GAP”. 

The clip showed a man seeking forgiveness from his ex-wife that he had cheated on.
 The women asked tough questions, but in the end granted forgiveness and let him “go in peace with God.”

Little did we know that this media scene would be played out a few hours later between Brent and Candi. Instead of meeting after church with Chad, Steph and myself.... Brent asked to meet another day.

4:30 p.m. the phone rings and Chad fears Brent has driven off to commit suicide after a brief meeting with his sister Candi. By 5 p.m. Brent is found barely alive. By 7 p.m. he has passed away at St. Marys hospital.

YOU NEVER KNOW WHO IS IN THE CROWD.

Brent was seeking.
Brent heard a powerful and dangerous message on forgiveness.
Brent heard a clear gospel message of how Christ blood, death on the cross is what frees us from our sin and is all God see’s if we are his children. If we have accepted Christ, sought God’s forgiveness... God sees us as clean because of Jesus.

We pray and hope that Brent gave his life to Christ / God before his passing.
He was seeking.
He was hurting.

He was trapped in a dark place that the enemy did not want him to come out of.

I am reminded of the words from Peter. These words have new power and meaning.

 
"8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters[ all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.
 10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 11 All power to him forever! Amen." (1 Peter 5:8-11)

I believe that Brent is with our loving King and Savior.
 I believe that the church will rise up and serve the Fisher family. 
I believe that will be glorified in a bold powerful way some how.
 I believe that new passion and zeal will come of this as we remember 
YOU NEVER KNOW WHO IS IN THE CROWD.

May be always be prepared to give an answer for our faith and serve others.

Forgivness #2 - My Own Prison

This Sunday I shared how many of us live in a prison of our own making.
This prison has a name, it’s called “UN-FORGIVENESS”.
This unforgiveness can be because we have not forgiven others, we have not forgiven ourselves or we have not sought out God’s forgiveness.

Unforgiveness can become a dark and deadly prison. The longer we choose to not address the sin in our lives, run for giving or receiving forgiveness the darker the cell or cage becomes. For many people these prison becomes more intense and dangerous as we begin to “self-medicate” ourselves because we can’t deal with the pain and truth of unforgiveness. Rather that face the issue head on we settle for momentary “high” to numb the pain, distract us from the real issue. We “self-medicate” in so many ways, some more dangerous than others. Sex, drugs, alcohol, food, movies , TV, etc. Anything that creates a false sense of happiness, but in the end only numbs us to the real pain of the sin.

This self made prison of unforgiveness kills not only us, but radically effects those around us. The side effects of a “self-medicate” life can be, divorce, loss of Job, anger, bitterness, rage, depression, and suicide. And the tragic thing is that we have no one to blame but ourselves. Because we have chosen a life of unforgiveness of some kind.

King Saul had a tormenting spirit come upon him as he avoided dealing with his sin and other life issues. He choose to not seek forgiveness and he spun out of control. Young David, tried to sooth King Saul by playing the harp (self-medicate). It didn’t work. The bitterness, rage, anger, hatred, self-worth side effects only got worse. How sad... it never had to be that way. Freedom was Saul’s if only he had faced his sin, worked through the forgiveness issues and restored the relationships in his life.

This self made prison of unforgiveness is made by us and our chooses... not someone else. Stop blaming others for your addictions and nasty attitudes and behaviors. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul gives great action steps to freeing ourselves from this prison of unforgiveness.

Philippians 4:8-9
And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

The Keys are in your hands...do you want freedom.... start by addressing the sin in your live.
Look in the mirror and get real.
Then “fix your thoughts” on the truth.... God’s truth. You are loved, you are forgiven, your of value, etc. Start looking for the good in life, rather the dark lies of the enemy.
Then “Practice” what God has taught you. Really, follow Jesus Christ and how he lived, loved, and forgave. His was a life of truth and grace. A wide open adventure... not a dark prison.
And if you are “self-medicating”, get help today. Be honest before you really explode.

Rather than, anger, bitterness, rage, you will finally know God’s peace.

The choose is yours.... the keys are in your hands... what will you choose to do?

NFL 2009 Begins

Kick off 2009... Thursday night game on NBC.
Steelers win in OT!!!!

What a great way to get the football blood pumping.

Sunday night.... Packers and Bears.... oh year!

Bring on the chips, salsa and good times.

Forgiveness.... the real "F" word

This week we kick of a big series, as we explore forgiveness.
Forgiveness, restoration of broken relationships is the central message of Jesus Christ and our churches. So why is real forgiveness so hard to give, receive, accept and find healing in?

Let me start out with this challenge.... Saying "I'm sorry" is NOT FORGIVENESS!
It's a short cut, a cop-out.
Forgiveness is much, much more.
Forgiveness is costly.
Forgiveness is deeply personal.
Forgiveness is freeing for the both the offender and the offended.

Are you prepared to explore the real truth of forgiveness?
Are you willing to admit that forgiveness is something we all want, but hard to give?

See you Sunday.

Farve the Viking

Well it happened, Brett Farve signed the contract and suited up yesterday with the Minnesota Vikings. Several thoughts and then a question.
First, I have not heard many Viking fans cheering on how "great this is."
Is that because they all see how weak of a Coaching staff, and ownership "leadership" organization the Vikings have become. Sure they now have Farve, but it cost them so much respect, pride and dignity along the way. Green Bay is own by the share holders of Wisconsin. The Vikings are now owned by Brett Farve.

If you are any the Quaterbacks on the Viking team, how do you feel this morning. How confident are you in your abilty, value, worth. How much do you trust the Vikings front office.

Now that training camp is over in Mankato. The hard hot and humid two a day work outs are done, aren't you a bit pissedc off that the "hero" of the franchise missed all of that ugly team building work?

By the way.... has anyone thought of the fact that Farve, never plays well in a domed facility? Don't the Viking play in the METEODOME? What are giving up home field advantage with Farve?

Finally.....Post your predictons here.... How many games will Farve play this year for the Vikings?

I Predict that by week 7 of the regular season, Farves stats will be falling and he will either get hurt or hang it up mid-season. He simply can't play an entire season at the level they need to win.

Well what do you think?

How Did I get here?

Lately I've had thoughts of "How did I get here"?

The thought revolves around the idea that I have been married for 20 years, my oldest daughter is going to be a Senior in High School, and our church is now 5 1/2 years old.
Which means I have been out of broadcasting for 10 years.... but I was in broadcasting for 10 years which seem only like yesterday.

How did I get here?

Is there a point in life when the clock, days, nights and months speed up?

I have not had mid-life crises (yet), but I can understand why many do.
It's so strange to wake up and wonder how this all happened, what really go you hear and what's next.

Sickness

It's never really fun being sick. But for me, it's extra hard being sick on the weekend and missing out on our weekly church gathering. This last weekend I got hit with a head and throat cold that hurt. Each time that I talked, coughed or sneezed it felt like my throat would catch on fire.

Man I'm I glad that God has placed such a solid team of people around me a Journey. On this weekend we already had some people covering for others that had planned to be gone, and then I drop off the radar at the last minute. But with the team that we have and the heart beat to "do what it takes" each week I knew not to worry. And I was right.
I've heard a lot of positive feed back on how everyone pulled together and it was a great weekend with God and family.

You see I can handle being sick if nothing is going on a lot easier than something great is happening. I hate missing out on what God is doing. Saturday night I had planned to go to a small gathering about dreaming big dreams for God. Man I was so excited to be around a bunch a dreamers. But once again my being sick stopped me. But Dave Reynolds got to go and said it was awesome. So others in the church family got to experience something new and exciting in my absence.

I hate being sick and missing out, but sometimes it's good to sit on the sidelines and watch what God does through others.

Potential - Kirk (Story of Gideon)

This week we launched our new discussion series, "at the movies" with the mega-hit film of the year STAR TREK. There several themes to explore but the biggest one was the theme of POTENTIAL. Things have changed with the new time-line of Kirk, Spock and McCoy.
Much is the same as we have know it, but much has changed.

Kirk is not the "stack of books" that was described in the classic series.
No, now he is simply drifting through life, bars, girls and bar fights are his way.
Until Capt. Pike dares him to rise to his potential. The potential that given to him partly by the sacrifice of his father. (George Kirk).

Gideon in the OT has a similar challenge put to him by the "angel of the Lord" in Judges chapter 6. The angel calls young Gideon a "Mighty Hero" as he is hiding in a cave.

In both cases each man clearly has some natural ability and talent going for them. But simply living in that ability is not really getting them anywhere. Not until they choose to accept the dare / challenge and act. To choose to act and reach our potential is so hard, especially if we have gotten by on our natural ability, look, smarts, etc.

But your natural ability is NOT you full potential.
Man have people responded to that phrase this week. (Thanks to God for that one!)
Ability is one thing, achieving our full potential takes commitment, work, dedication and help. To reach our full potential we need others to support us, challenge us and even dare us to do better. What potential is locked inside of us... most will never know. What potential is within our local churches.... many don't really care to even ask the question.

God created us in His image. That's got to mean that each of us has amazing potential.
I dare you to rise up.
I dare you to not stay the way you are, but to press forward with God.

Potential is such an unknown thing. I wonder what my full potential for God's glory is. I wonder Journey's full potential for God's Kingdom is. I long to see it.

Goose on the Loose hunt

This week we wrapped up our discussion series "Chasing the Goose" with a talk on the cage of failure. As a bonus I shared how we can all go on a real goose chase.
Rochester has 18 goose statue placed throughout the city this summer (June - Oct).
They may be inside or outside various places around town.

So the hunt is on.
Take the following 18 hints and go on a real goose chase. Real failure is not an option:)

Share how many you found along the way.
Take pictures to prove you found them.

The Goosinator
Goose in the Garden
Payball!
Home Federal Goosey Bank
RCTC Goose
Extra, extra read all about it Goose
Honk, if you love Rochester Goose
Bird and Bard
Calliope - The Muse Goose
The American Dream
Flying Ace
Mother Earth Goose
UMR: Bringing the world to Rochester
Mother Goose takes to Gander
Reflections of Mayo
Family-History-Community-Unity
History Center Goose

At the Movies

It's time for our annual discussion series "at the movies".
Each August we explore several film from this year, looking at what they may be saying to us and then what the scriptures may have to say in light of the films.
We pay at least $8.00 to laugh, cry, cheer or sometimes ponder life as we watch films at a theater. We all have our favorites.

So here is your chance to help me plan a discussion series.
What films caught your attention this year?
What themes, messages, ideas have been projected through these films.
Don't hold back... I really want your feedback.

Comedy, action, adventure, horror, science-fiction, docudrama. They are all fair game.

Give your thoughts and ideas then be sure to invite a friend and join us starting Sunday, August 2nd for the first of our 2009 At the movies series.

Really all this for MJ?

The past several days the world appears to have gone crazy celebrating the life of Micheal Jackson. A man that made a living singing and writing songs. No one will ever deny his talent. I'd even say, "God given gift". Yet how that gift was wasted.
What happened to the young boy that sang as a part of the Jackson 5 and seemed so happy?
As MJ life went it become a human train wreck.
He was fearful of almost everything it seemed... except making more and more money.
There were serious doubts about his behavior with kids and "neverland".
There was his plastic surgeries that morphed his face into something.., indescribable.
And his death is another "rock and roll" mystery story.

The world is celebrating a life gone wrong. Celebrating at the cost of millions of dollars while our economy is in a serious mess. He is being celebrated and used by his own father to promote a new record label and make millions more. Doesn't anyone see something wrong in all of this?

Doesn't anyone see how sad this all is?

There are far more important matters to focus on, give money to and celebrate than the life of a socially messed up man and the millions he made promoting that messed up way of life. I am choosing to ignore it all.
No 20/20 TV specials, no MTV highlights of his career... nothing.
MJ was a man, a lost, broken, hurting man. For that I feel a great loss.

But I will not join in and celebrate that brokenness gone wild.

No my hope and prayer is that the world will come to it's senses, see the brokenness of this life and WAKE UP. He is not the first to show us how loving the world can kill us... and he won't be the last. I only wish.... many, many, many would wake up and look to the real KING... Jesus Christ.

In a nut shell... the "king of this world", Satan. Had himself a big party this week... and a great many people of the world join right in. How sad!

Journey Camp week

This week we began a five day adventure at Camp Victory.
We are partnering with Camp Victory and having an "uncivilized" experience for 10th - college age. I'm hoping and praying that the week will be very personal and life changing. I hope that these campers begin to see Christ in a new way. Rather than Jesus a white guy that wore a robe, sandals, had long hair and beard and talked softly.

No Jesus was a revolutionar, because he not only talked about loving people... he actually did it. The way that he loved people, blew everyone away. It wasn't religious talk... it was relationship based. That relationship focused life of love and forgiveness transformed people and ignited a anger in others to stop Jesus movement.

This week, I pray that a new revolution of the heart and soul begins in these campers that triggers a chain reaction in others. Reactions both for against Christ.

Stay tuned.

Chasing the Goose

This week we began a new discussion series called "Chasing the Goose".
I've been planning a series on the book of Acts for a long time, and I finally got inspired by another pastors book and study material called - "Chasing the Goose."
Mark Batterson's study focus more on the power of the Holy Spirit over all of history. I took some of his concepts and added them to what I was already preparing on Acts.
What I think comes out of all of this is a very exciting and personallyn challenging series on really following God's Spirit on a crazy adventure... a "wild goose chase " at times!

Some of what I'll be sharing these next few weeks comes from a personal challenge my directors gave to me late 2008. Bill and Rachel asked me to,"study more what it means to be spirit-led, and lead us that way." It's not that we haven't been Spirit-led at Journey or in my personal life... we have. But as I've seen and as can be illustrated, we've caged the Holy Spirit. We've tamed down, the unpredictable power and movement of God in our lives and churches. I hate that and I do want let the Spirit escape and move wildly and freely again. What this looks like... I honestly have no idea, only that there will be more supernatural surprises in store for all of us. Plus, more and more people will want to know God.

As we jump into this study of how the early church was birthed and exploded on the scene I am struck with a interesting battle presenting Acts chapter 1. Jesus has lived, died, rose, ministerd forv 40 days after the resurrection, commmissioned the disciples to "Go make more disciples". Then he says WAIT! Go to Jerusalem, do nothing... wait for my gift of the Holy Spirit to be your power source.

I hate the tension.... really I do between GO and WAIT!
I hate it because I have lived and served in Christian enviroments where waiting is all that we do. We wait and wait for everything to be perfect, predictable and safe.
There are so many people waiting for God to do something.. they are missing out on what God is doing... because it's to radical, costly or unsure.

I am all for waiting, praying, seeking God's will and leading...but not at the expense of never going. Throughout the scriptures many great things happened as men and women boldly stepped out in faith, followed the Spirits leading and God was honored.

The tension between Go and WAIT is tough... because is the God of creation and creativity and does all do things the same. So how do you when to Go and when to Wait?

I hope over the next few weeks we all learn how "Chasing after the goose" will help us answer that question. This is not about just the BIG SUPERNATURAL type events God does. This is about learning to personally follow God's Spirit, be a witness where he calls us to go and go boldly. I invite you to join me on exploring the book of Acts, seeing where God leds and sharing your thoughts and idea here on this blog.

Where are you today.... waiting.... or going?

Fathers Day 2009

What a great weekend for this Fathers Day.
Saturday Carefest at Camp Victory.
Saturday night dinner out with Family, early Father Day gifts.... Guitar Hero Smash Hits!
Then Church in the Park with Journey.

Men and their grills.... it's a simple yet powerful way to celebrate and honor one another. I have much to be grateful for a father. A super wife (Cyndi), three fantastic kids (Abbi, Sarah and Hannah). Above all the people in my life, above all the people we grilled with, ate with and served with.... you matter the most and made it all he more special.

Thanks and for all you other dads.... I hope you as blessed as I am by those in your life that make up your family.

Happy Fathers Day!

3 Passions

Journey is passionate about three things.
Reaching People
Growing Deeper
Honoring God.

For the most part I thing people understand #1 & #3. They may not live them out to the fullest or want to participate.... but I believe that most people get them.
#2 on the other hand, I think people resist.
Yup, I hear plenty of people saying that they want to grow in their faith, understand God and Jesus more and more... yet they never act on their words. Growing Deeper requires a certain commitment to take personal ownership for ones own relationship with God and others. I think we resist partly because we've been led to believe it just naturally happens. Or we believe, it's someone else responsibility to make the first move and get us growing. Not true. Faith is a personal thing, that gets worked out in community with others. Life itself is a laboratory for faith to grow. But we have to be willing to participate... not just wish for it.

Growing deeper also requires us to be vulnerable with others. Jesus taught his disciples how to serve, minister and grow together. I don't see any other way around this issue. If you really want to grow your faith, you must open up your heart and soul to others, develop relationships, risk being hurt... and commit to being held accountable.

I believe that there are a lot of well meaning Christians that really want to grow, but are allowing fear and an over dependency on the church and formal programs do the job for them. It bothers me that so many wish and talk about growing deeper, and yet so few actually set aside the time to make it happen.

As a church we're passionate about growing deeper.
As a pastor I'm driven by this passion.
As a man I love being in a deeper relationship with God and man.
Yes it takes work... but it's so worth it and more often than not... it's so much fun.

Ebenezers

Monday morning I fly out to Washington, DC and will be visiting my cousin before I settle into a fun filled day with Mark Batterson and the National Community Church (http://theaterchurch.com/) staff that run Ebenezers Coffee shop. (http://ebenezerscoffeehouse.com/) DC's #1 Coffee shop and it's an outreach effort of a church that also meets in a theater. (See the connections)
I hope and pray that this trip will help me, help our team as we continue to press forward with the 10 South Broadway site of our possible outreach center / coffee shop.

I am grate that God as opened up a small door. new ministry relationship with Mark and NCC. I pray that this may be the start of new friendship and a time of personal growth.
You can follow my trip on both Facebook and my personal blog.

I ask that you pray for wisdom, open ears and God's spirit to lead me and NCC as we talk together. This is really a "yeah God trip" for all of Journey. Thanks for allowing me to go and making in possible.

31 day Challenge

This Sunday we kicked off a new discussion series "Wisdom For Living" based on the book of Proverbs.
At the end of the morning I placed a church-wide challenge to search, seek, cry out, read and explore one Proverb per day for the next 31 days. It has been really exciting to hear people's reaction to the challenge and their desire to seek more of God's wisdom rather than man's wisdom. Several people are journaling on face-book about their daily readings.

The biggest challenge that see for life transformation is allowing Wisdom (God) to move from the head to the heart. Only 12 inches... but it's so tough for so many to allow to happen. Why is that? If Wisdom is worth chasing after, why don't we let it get to our heart and really change us. Could it because we do believe that change will come and that's the very reason we keep the heart locked up. We are afraid of God size change.

But why fear a loving father, with all that wisdom for life?

12 inches... is that what's keep me and you from really being transformed and experiencing a better life?
12 inches.... what waste of space.

Goose Lessons

This week I got "goosed" at the Exponential Church planters conference on Orlando.
As I got "goosed" I had to do the chicken dance in front of a packed room of pastors and fellow church planters.
Thankfully... neither Bill Elliingson or Rachel Strouf (who made the trip with me) saw me do the dance.

But besides being "goosed" I was reminded of a powerful leadership/ life lesson from geese.
As the geese fly, the form a V-shape. One goose takes the point, while others fall in line on either wing. And then the next, and the next, and the next geese do the same. As they flap their wings together, they are able to fly 71% further than if they were trying to do it all alone. Plus as after awhile, as you get tried. You slide out of formation, drift to the end the V-Shape and allow someone else to take point, and allow all the other geese flapping their weeks help make your efforts easier.

This is how a vision driven church should move as well. All together, behind a common, mission, vision and goal.
If we form up intentionally together... we'll fly further and faster than if we were all "lone rangers" serving God.
The key is that EVERYONE must flap their wings, use their gifts, top help us get to where God wants us to go.
We all needs breaks, but we must not fall out of line.
We all will have our chance to lead out, but that doesn't make you any more important than the goose at the end.

As we move forward into another exciting and outreach focus Summer.
As we intentionally pursue the Outreach Center site.
Believe and commit to help us lighten the load, flying further than we can dream, as we seek to follow God's calling and direction.

Have you been "Goosed" by God?
Well start flapping!

Exponential Conference '09

Today was day one of of (if the largest) church planting conferences on all North America. About 3,000 planting pastors and leaders are expected to be at this years conference which is held at First Baptist of Orlando.
Today I tried to sit on a session that supposed to focus on leadership development. Man was I disappointed.
So I jumped to several other break out sessions and finally ended up at "Creating a Disciple Making Movement" with Jim Putman.
Rachel was sitting in on that one and was excited by how Jim was presenting and the information, ideas and concepts being shared. I was excited to hear how much of his presentation links up with what we are already doing at Journey. And how there were several solid take away concepts that may helps us improve our focus on "making fully devoted followers of Jesus".

I had the change to talk briefly with Mark Batterson about their coffee shop and our possible site for our outreach/ coffee shop.
Ebenezer is a great place and Washington and I look forward to learning more from Mark and his team in the coming weeks.

Take away from the day... "There are not growth barriers.... but really only leadership barriers." - Jim Putman

Here's to day two and a hearing from Erwin McManus for the first time live (in person).

Could this be it?

For five years we have prayed and searched for a place to create out outreach center. A coffee shop style place for people to relax, surf the net, listen to live music, connect and have spiritual conversations with friends, family and strangers. We have dreamed of a place downtown Rochester, that has plenty of parking, great signage and easy access. It has been very hard to find all of things, plus having it be a place that we could put some blood, sweat and tears into.

Well today I believe that God showed us the place.
Everything on our dream list and more!
The possibilities are unbelievable!

Today, begins a new chapter in prayer, focused research and planning.
I believe that there are times that God provides the amazing and he wants to jump in.
As far as I and the other Directors can see, this is the place and we need to jump with God.
The Journey Cafe may not be far from reality!

Dreams are just dreams until you step into them.
I pray, that we step into this and God provides over and above what we could ever ask or imagine!

Do you dare to jump with us?
Stay tuned for more exciting news. This has been an amazing God moving week!

Resurrectuion Day

Resurrection Day or Easter as most people call is an amazing day. It's a day of bitter joy, freedom, and new chances.
As a follower of Jesus, Resurrection Day defines my life. I am free to live completely in the knowledge that God loves me.
More than that, I am able to live life without fear, because God are I.... our relationship is restored.

The Apostle Paul writes in the book of Romans, "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love." romans 8:38)
Nothing!
As a follower of Jesus, still living in a fallen, broken world it's easy to forget that no matter what I am ok with God. Not because of anything that I have done, or not done. But simply because of all that He has done for me through his son Jesus. As often as my kids blow it, they know deep down inside that they will always have mom and dads love. Yes the mistakes and pains of life may hurt and leave lasting marks... but my love for my three girls will never go away. Nothing, can separate me and my family!
The truth that because of Christ's death and resurrection God feels the same way about me is amazing and humbling.

But I don't get to just live because of Christ. I get to LIVE!
The apostle Paul writes, "Despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us." (romans 8:37)
Overwhelming victory paints a picture of victory from a intense battle. Celebration breaks out in the streets as enemy forces are driven back and away from homes and families. That's how free we are in God's love.

The tomb is empty.
The Savior lives and walks among his people.
He longs to give life to everyone.... all we need to do is believe and accept this amazing free gift.
Do you want to be resurrected from your every day normal life of pain and suffering, loneliness and hurt.
Be convinced as Paul and I are... "Nothing can separate you from God once you've joined his family.
I pray, that this resurrection day many souls are set free, and we see people celebrating, dancing in the streets a life is renewed.

Anniversarys

This is an exciting, exciting time of year for me and my family. April is one celebration after another.
Today marks Cyndi's and mine 20 year anniversary!
It has been an amazing adventure and life with my life partner. At times it seems like we just got married, jumped through a time portal and ended up with a daughter as a Junior in H.S and Twins that are about to enter Middle School.
How did all of that happen?

Plus we celebrated our 5th anniversary as a church. Honestly there were so many that never thought we'd make it to our first or second year celebration. But by the grace of God we have and over 50 kids and adults celebrated with a pizza party and old picture memories.

Yeah it's a party month.

Seeing God

This week the question of really seeing God vs "seeing what you want to believe" has come up several times.
I agree that often we have the ability to see what we want to see in things. Believe because we want to believe in good not evil and so forth. So how we know really know that we are seeing God move and work today verse wishful thinking?

I personally listen to life stories.
How is pray answered.
How has a life been unexpectedly touched, blessed, even rescued for certain destruction.
Yes, I choose to believe in God and his movement in my life and the lives of others.
But as I choose to believe, I actually see more and more that confirms my choice to believe.

I know that there are many, that of a miracle of biblical proportions happened today they would still deny, write if off and not choose to believe. It happen during all of Jesus ministry and it will happen until the end of time.

I'm curious how do others "see God" and know that he is still moving among us?
How much does simple faith verse "having to see it to believe it" work in your life.

I do know the more that I pray, seek God, ask to see His movement.... the more clearly I see it.
It's like the wind... you can't see it, but you do see the effects of the wind.

Exciting Sunday

Every week we gather and we say that we expect God to do the unexpected. We pray, plan and expect the amazing to take place because God desires all of mankind to know him. Well this Sunday was a multiply God sighting Sunday.
First we had great attendance in our 9:00 a.m. gathering
Second we had record attendance in our 10:30 gathering!
As we dedicated two young kids from two different families... we had extra family, friends, co-workers... plus a bunch of people checking us out for the first time, It was exciting
Our kids ministry areas had a total of 30 people (kids and adults)

Then as we were tearing down and packing up, or financial secretary pulled me aside and show me a had written note with cash clipped to it (several hundred dollars). The note read, "Use these for someone on need."
Wow - we have never had a gift like that, from an unknown person, for some unknown need.
Never!

All day like I prayed, thought and meditated on "God give us a real need, to help some one big thing in there lives. Don't have us use $20 here and $20 there. Make it clear that this gift gets you correctly."

Just before 5 p.m., I checked my e-mail Sunday afternoon and received a personal request for help from a newcomer.
The requested amount was more than what we were given, but we could make a big difference with this person, their need and their life. I shared this at our Sunday night LIFE Group and everyone was in tears over the generous gift and the unique need.
God provided in advance, before the request was spoken.
That's a great God sighting.

We desire to a faith community that experiences the power of God and see people become fully devoted followers of Jesus.
Days like Sunday, refresh us, encourage us, inspire us to continue to reach out and risk more and more.

"Lord may you bless that unknown giver and may we continue to see more and more of your amazing power, grace and miracles. May you Lord be praised."

I pray that we see more days like this. Not for our sake, but for the sake of others!
I hope you come expecting to see what God will do this week.
I hope that you are watching to see how God is moving every day. Take note and celebrate His great deeds.

Mutipersonality Required

This week I shared with other local pastors some of the high and lows of serving the faith community of Journey. As I spoke I asking, "does it help to have a split personality?" They said with smiles on the faces, "YES".
There are days when you go from one exciting meeting, life moment to the deepest most painful moment in a persons life.
It's not that you're faking it, but to best serve people you must be able to meet them where they are at.
"Weep when they weep, rejoice when they rejoice."
For some of us this "split personality" comes almost natural and actually helps is serve and show the love of God.
To other it is a burden, comes off fake and hurts our efforts.

I wonder how others view those of us that can make the jump and go up and down at a turn of a switch.

Is it helpful?
Is it fake?
Is it a natural part of serving?

I must admit that having this personality and making quick adjustments can wipe me out at times. That is, I go to bed... emotionally dead. Yet, I get up, excited to do it all over again the next day. Am I strange, or is that the amazing way God makes us uniquely gifted/ wired for ministry?

News Report: More Americans say they have no religion

This article came out today. The day after our Vision Day as I shared that 3,400 churches will close this year.
This only reinforces the truth... the church, it's people MUST rise up, shine brighter and go to our hurting world.

read, think and responsed.

More Americans say they have no religion
By RACHEL ZOLL, AP Religion Writer – Mon Mar 9, 12:14 am ET
A wide-ranging study on American religious life found that the Roman Catholic population has been shifting out o of the Northeast to the Southwest, the percentage of Christians in the nation has declined and more people say they have no religion at all.
Fifteen percent of respondents said they had no religion, an increase from 14.2 percent in 2001 and 8.2 percent in 1990, according to the American Religious Identification Survey.
Northern New England surpassed the Pacific Northwest as the least religious region, with Vermont reporting the highest share of those claiming no religion, at 34 percent. Still, the study found that the numbers of Americans with no religion rose in every state.
"No other religious bloc has kept such a pace in every state," the study's authors said.
In the Northeast, self-identified Catholics made up 36 percent of adults last year, down from 43 percent in 1990. At the same time, however, Catholics grew to about one-third of the adult population in California and Texas, and one-quarter of Floridians, largely due to Latino immigration, according to the research.
Nationally, Catholics remain the largest religious group, with 57 million people saying they belong to the church. The tradition gained 11 million followers since 1990, but its share of the population fell by about a percentage point to 25 percent.
Christians who aren't Catholic also are a declining segment of the country.
In 2008, Christians comprised 76 percent of U.S. adults, compared to about 77 percent in 2001 and about 86 percent in 1990. Researchers said the dwindling ranks of mainline Protestants, including Methodists, Lutherans and Episcopalians, largely explains the shift. Over the last seven years, mainline Protestants dropped from just over 17 percent to 12.9 percent of the population.
The report from The Program on Public Values at Trinity College in Hartford, Conn., surveyed 54,461 adults in English or Spanish from February through November of last year. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 0.5 percentage points. The findings are part of a series of studies on American religion by the program that will later look more closely at reasons behind the trends.
The current survey, being released Monday, found traditional organized religion playing less of a role in many lives. Thirty percent of married couples did not have a religious wedding ceremony and 27 percent of respondents said they did not want a religious funeral.
About 12 percent of Americans believe in a higher power but not the personal God at the core of monotheistic faiths. And, since 1990, a slightly greater share of respondents — 1.2 percent — said they were part of new religious movements, including Scientology, Wicca and Santeria.
The study also found signs of a growing influence of churches that either don't belong to a denomination or play down their membership in a religious group.
Respondents who called themselves "non-denominational Christian" grew from 0.1 percent in 1990 to 3.5 percent last year. Congregations that most often use the term are megachurches considered "seeker sensitive." They use rock style music and less structured prayer to attract people who don't usually attend church. Researchers also found a small increase in those who prefer being called evangelical or born-again, rather than claim membership in a denomination.
Evangelical or born-again Americans make up 34 percent of all American adults and 45 percent of all Christians and Catholics, the study found. Researchers found that 18 percent of Catholics consider themselves born-again or evangelical, and nearly 39 percent of mainline Protestants prefer those labels. Many mainline Protestant groups are riven by conflict over how they should interpret what the Bible says about gay relationships, salvation and other issues.
The percentage of Pentecostals remained mostly steady since 1990 at 3.5 percent, a surprising finding considering the dramatic spread of the tradition worldwide. Pentecostals are known for a spirited form of Christianity that includes speaking in tongues and a belief in modern-day miracles.
Mormon numbers also held steady over the period at 1.4 percent of the population, while the number of Jews who described themselves as religiously observant continued to drop, from 1.8 percent in 1990 to 1.2 percent, or 2.7 million people, last year. Researchers plan a broader survey on people who consider themselves culturally Jewish but aren't religious.
The study found that the percentage of Americans who identified themselves as Muslim grew to 0.6 percent of the population, while growth in Eastern religions such as Buddhism slightly slowed.

Dayligt Savings Time

Can we just get rid of this changing the clock twice a year nonsense please?
It really makes no sense and it only messy up people schedules and life.

Vision - Disney Style

On our recent trip to Orlando Cyndi and I had the chance to enjoy a few days at Disney World. Besides the fun of going to Disney, I really get inspired by Walt Disney's dream and vision. Here was a man that bought miles and miles of swamp land! He bought it because he believed that it could be transformed in to an amazing place, "where dreams come true."
What dreams can come true in a swamp?
Yet Walt, believed in the unseen potential of the swamp land and the men and women that would actually roll up their sleeves and bring the dream to life. I find it inspiring that where Walt was the dreamer, visionary, he intentionally placed other gifted, men and women around him to see that the vision was fleshed out properly. His brother was the financial wizard. Walt would dream big dreams, share them with his brother (Roy) and Roy would then have to figure out how to pay for the dream and see that it brought in a profit.
But what inspires me even more is that all these years, the basic vision and dream that Walt laid out is still very much alive and has not been messed with too much. Sure there have been those that have come into the Disney family, tried to change it to their vision, only to see it hurt the overall vision. Eventually the person is asked to leave (removed) and the Disney organization returns back to the foundational principles as laid out by Walt.

Oh that the church of Jesus Christ had such men of faith and vision today.
Visionaries that believe in the unseen Kingdom of God so much, that nothing would stop them from seeing it become a reality. That is in seeing the Great Commission fulfilled.
Oh that the church used the gifts and talents of people to the best of their ability so that the dream could be lived out. Let's let the visionaries hear and sense what God would have us do, share the vision with the right people and have it march forward. If Walt can have a vision of transforming swamp land into a world famous adventure land, can't we embrace the vision to go and partner with the Holy Spirit to see lives transformed and have people live as God designed to live.

I dream such dreams.
I believe in transformation.
I believe in investing all that I have, and in challenging others to help bring the dream to life.

Acts 2:17 says......
‘In the last days,’ God says,
‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.
Your young men will see visions,
and your old men will dream dreams.

I challenge you to dream with me, help build a place where the lame, the sick, the blind, find freedom and are transformed by God. I challenge you to help build an environment where going, being on mission with is the norm.
"I have a dream..... do you?

American Idol... Drama

This season I have tried to sit and watch more of the American Idol, simply because the rest of the family likes it.
I have to admit, I don't really get the big buzz on this show.
Thousands of people try and show that thy can sing and be the next "big star" in the music industry.
People will do anything, behave anyway to been noticed and get the audition!
This year there was "Bikini girl" and "Norman" that pushed the envelope and the "geek factor" as it its know.
Why?
Why do so many people want to have Randy, Simon, Paula and the new gal judge them?
Why do are so many people willing to have Simon, verbally abuse them in public?
Plus, each week if there isn't enough drama with the singers, the four judges have to go after each other and create drama for the network ratings. It's all so fake and so unneeded.

I have enough drama in my life, I don't need to sit and experience more drama... especially forced, created drama.

I guess, I find it sad, that so many people are willing to do anything, for anyone in order to be told that they are "someone"... aka STAR. I find it much more real, valuable and satisfying when my family and friends tell me truly how they see me.
Oh that can cause drama to, but it's real drama... not a network rating thing.

I wonder, how much the idol type of mind set is effecting our kids, work place and families.
The scriptures say that you should have no other idols before God... and that includes making yourself an idol.

Someone do Something

I recently got back from a conference that included about 200 church planters, spouses, and key leaders with in our nation-wide network of churches known as CONVERGE USA. Our network is one of the two fastest growing and most stable church planting movements in the entire nation. There is must to celebrate and yet so much more that needs to be done.
One speaker at the conference shared a sobering stat.

"At least 3,700 churches will close their doors this year...in 2009."

With population growth, the influx in internationals coming to our country... we can not plant enough churches to effectively serve, minister and reach people for Christ at the rate of churches closing. We are loosing the battle in a country that is seen a "Christian". Wow... that is a real sobering thought.

The speaker spoke with passion and urgency that "someone here, in this room has got to do something."
The scriptures tell us that the "fields are ripe but the labors (workers, servants, risk-takers) are few".
I can't stomach that.
God's word said the world is ready, that light should be expanding and yet not enough people are jumping up make a make in eternity. Someone has got to do something.
I believe that that not just or two have to do something, but an entire faith community must rise up and do something.
A bold movement God, the Holy Spirit, for the sake of Jesus Christ needs to rise up and push back the darkness.
Instead of 3,700 churches closing this year.... 3,700 need to launched,relaunched, reignited.

As we begin this new series called "ALL IN" at Journey. I pray that an entire community of faith explodes with new passion, new sacrifice, new visions and dreams from the Holy Spirit. I pray that this community is the faith community, family called Journey. "SOMEONE HAS GOT TO SOMETHING."

Are ready to do something... then step forward. Don't waste another day. Another day, could see another church close and the darkness will over shadow the light.

Coming Home

I really have enjoyed this week. Several days meeting with some of best church planters and their spouses in our Converge movement of churches, plus some quality time with Cyndi. But a good as this time has been, I'm ready to come home.
When ever I travel over a period of time, I get reminded in my soul what I am called to do and where I am called to serve.

Breaks are good, but don't keep me on the sidelines and on the bench too long.
I could go crazy, without being in the service of God and His people.

From the 75 degrees back to the 17 degrees on Tuesday.
Get ready, Minnesota,..... I'm coming back.

Valentines at Disney

Today is Valentines day we concludeed a two - half day church planters conference in Orlando.
Converge USA our network of churches hosted the event and provided some GREAT deals to get over 200 pastors / planters and spouses at Disney. (suffering for God was tough this week).

After the confefrence Cyndi and I enjoyed at day at Epcot (thanks Tony). We had a fun time and enjoyed watching the fireworks at the Epcot lake. Can't see that enough.

We're celebrating Valentines and our 20 year wedding anniversary a bit early since we're here. (Really a huge God story!!!!)

I hope that you are enjoying a day with the one you love the most.

I'm a hopeless romantic!

Love & higs

Simple or complicated?

I have to admit... I'm a pretty simple guy.
Pizza, Peanut Butter and Jelly (grape jelly), nachos, and cheetos make me happy.
Movies that have lots of explosions and car chases I get.
God's grace and love I get and yet we often make it so hard to accept and live within.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a hard thing. God loved us, so much that he sent is son to live perfect, die a sinners death, rise victorious over the grave and give us freedom and life. Simply!
So why is it that so many people are confused by matters of faith? Could it be another simple thing... that we, the church, have made it more complicated than it was ever intended to be? Have we add layers and layers of programs, process, systems and vocabulary that it appears to be so complicated to the average person and spiritual seeker?
I would say, "yes" we have!

Just this week I heard from several people, "there's got to be more to his faith stuff, this can't just be it."
Part of Jesus mission was to simply live a godly life, simply love people and simplify our relationship with God.
Jesus came to simplify the countless rules, regulations, and boundaries imposed by centuries of religion.
The people of his day were drawn to his simple teaches and truth.
The religious leaders.... hated him for it! They like complicated.

Simple does not me dumb.
Simple does not mean it's not hard or no growth happens.
Rather, Jesus showed simple to be hard, intense, dangerous, radical, and powerful.
Simple brought understanding, understudying brought faith, faith brought action that appeared simple but rocked the world.

Maybe you're confused as you attend Journey, go to LIFE Groups, participate in various ways.
Maybe you're waiting for the simple to end and the complicated to start... because that's how it's always been in church.
I promise you, if you're looking and waiting for the complicated.... you won't find it here at Journey.
Rather you'll find the simple
So why not embrace the simple.... like Jesus taught, modeled and lived.
Simply show love to others.
Simply reach out to a hurting world.
Simply serve expecting nothing in return.
Simply give the best that you have.

Have you had enough of the complicated life?
Simply accept the simple gift of God.... accept and follow a simply power man... God's son Jesus.
Is that simply enough for you?

Inspiring week

This week I have been deeply inspired by the personal movement within people lives all around me. I have had more people coming and going through the office, having lunches, and dialoging via e-mail with than I have in a while. It's not just the volume of the talks, it's the depth and openness of them. There is a passion burning right now to go deeper and higher with God.
There is a desire to be vulnerable, hear the truth and press forward.

This last week we explored the "elephant in the church of the supernatural". How God supernaturally has gifted each of us, as believers to build up, equip and grow the church and it's people. People are exploring this elephant, and beginning to see new insights as to who they are in Christ and who they can become... if they engage these God-given gifts. It has inspired me to review my gift mix and make sure I am being all that I can be with the Holy Spirt and for Jesus.

I want to see the supernatural happen through God's people.
I believe that it does and is happening daily.
I want to make sure that use my gifts, not waste them, and see others grow and grow.

This week has been a domino effect type of week for me. If you're not seeing it, maybe it's because you haven't actively engaged in the supernatural with God, because you're not using your gifts that he has given you. If you have one of the handwritten test, take it and stop by my office.... it may radically effect your life and faith.
Or take a short version at this link (15 min max), and then forward the results to me at rich@journeychurch.net

http://churchgrowth.org/analysis/intro.php

What a super.... supernatural week.... I long for more and more of them.
Thanks to those that have stepped up and engaged the Holy Spirit this week.
Now go... and use what has been given to you for the sake of the church/ God's kingdom.

New President

Today I watched history unfold. We say that we live in unique times, but today we have really watched and experienced global moment in time. As Obama was sworn in and began his address the nation and world, he pointed the finger at all of us. All of us that have failed each other, failed our country, failed our hopes and dreams. Rather than point finger at one group or the other, he pointed it to all of us.
Obama also make a strong reference to 1 Corinthians and the call to "grow up" and put away, "childish things". What a great attitude for us to hear. Our nation needs to take responsibility and actively take steps to change and make our nation healthy again.

I know many are have various opinions on our new president. But as Christians we are commanded to respect those in authority and pray for them. So as President Obama calls us to grow, let do so and show our support for him, our nation and God.
May this moment in time, not be wasted, but may it really bring us new hope.

SuperBowl 43

OK the teams are set. In two weeks the Steelers will meet the Cardinals for the Championship (and trip to Disney).

Growing up as a Packer fan (still am), my younger brother was also a big Steeler fan. So our family, often cheered extra hard for the Steelers in the AFC. That was back in the amazing days of the "steel curtain". Guys like Terry Bradshaw, Lynn Swan, Franco Harris, "Mean" Joe Greene. Yeah that was classic football stuff.

The Cardinals have moved three times in the NFL history and never really been a big hit. Chicago... years and years ago. The St. Louis (Where they still should be and have the biggest fan base), then now Arizona. The last two years the cards have put together an impressive team. Their team attitude is very solid and they have number one class act QB - Kurt Warner. (almost as old as Brett Farve).

Where I may have the family history with the Steelers, I am going with ARIZONA CARDINALS.
The difference to me is that the Cards defense has really stepped as the playoff have gone on. They have not leveled off or repeated what they did all season. They are actually getting better every week. Rare in any time.

I predict a pretty high scoring game. Both QB's have weapons, and read defenses very well.

So I hope to see you at a superbowl party (somewhere) Feb. 1st. Enjoy the food, the fun and celebrate the new champs of the NFL... the ARIZONA CARDINALS.

Record Cold

It's one thing to be cold, it's another to be COLD!
This winter has reminded me so much of my first winter in MN. I was 17 yrs. old and in High School.
I had to walk to school (10 blocks). Mid-way through a week of a arctic blast like we are experiencing now my mom meet after school, near tears. She apologized for having made my younger brother and I walk to school all week. She had not really believed us it was "that cold" and "that dangerous". As we drank our warm coco, she promised to drive us to school the next few days.

This type of cold is nuts. Yet, it's amazing how people adjust, bundle up and for the most part make the best of it.
Today, my kids simply wanted to stay inside, watch TV, play games and relax with extra blankets on.
No complaining... just kids wanting to "chill out".

We are more adaptable than we think we are. We can adjust, when we have to. But wouldn't it be better if we adjusted because we wanted to. Won't be great if changing and adapting was just a natural, normal part of life, instead of fighting it.
Why does it take the extreme to have this happen?

By Sunday it's supposed to 27 above and we'll believe it's a heat wave, or believe it's still to cold.

For now, adapt, and enjoy the sunny sky, cool temps, and warm coco.

Rich

Disruptions

Normally I don't mind being interrupted and asked to stop, listen or help someone else.
Interruptions are a part of everyday life.
What bugs me sometimes is disruptions.
Disruptions as in, I'm in the zone.... learning, studying, reading and then bang... someone or something calls or walks in the room and the train of thought derails... crash. It's so hard to go back, get that vibe or flow down.
I find it very hard when a disruption breaks a special moment with God.
I may be a place where I am hearing/ sensing more clearly from God than I have in a long, long time. I want to stay in that conversation, I want to stay in that place. But the disruption pulls me out of it.
Is it Ok for me to not stop sometimes?
Is it OK for me to ignore those other pulls and stay in that "place" with God.

I love surprises. I love being "on call" and seeing what may happen next.
What I am learning is... is that maybe I need to not always jump.... maybe I need to pause and stay a little longer with God.
The interruptions and disruption will always come... but that moment with God may not.

Sunday off - no Church

What a strange feeling it was this past Sunday (Dec. 28th) to wake up at 9:00 a.m. and not already be at the Chateau Theaters having the band rock'in out and preparing to step forward and speak. Earlier this year our leadership team decided to "shut the church down" for one weekend. We wanted to go big before Christmas and then give everyone a break from the routine of Sunday mornings and let everyone relax with family.

It was strange not to be together with our church family.
It was good to just relax with my biological family.

What do you do with yourself on Sunday morning when you're so used to serving and leading at a church (not just Journey but other churches)? It's such a strange feeling. I times I felt really lost on Sunday... I really desired to be at a place of worship, with my friends. I sensed that I was missing out on something that day. I still connected with God personally throughout the day, but the family gathering, the love, the laughter, the tears of a tough week was missing.

I wondered.... "does anyone else miss gathering together to worship this morning as much as I do?"

I wonder now.... "will it inspire us, refresh our passion to serve, invest and gather together for God's glory?"
Or will it simply be a day off, a pointless day off?

It was worth taking off, it was good for me, my family, our leadership team. It was good to go big and then relax and simply be still with our thoughts and God. I just don't want to do it too often. It's hard on a driven person.

Post Christmas DIinner

WOW!
I can not go to bed until I express my thanks to God for empowering such an amazing group of people (Journey Family) that started early, stayed late, cook, baked, cleaned and served at our first FREE Christmas dinner. No ever hesitated as the storm rolled and the temps dropped and dropped. The commitment and passion to reach out to others in the name of Jesus was too strong.
Then the entire day went off without a hitch.
Sunday morning attendance was strong in-spite of the weather.
Then the Dinner drew between 150 -200 people over the course of the five hours.
Laughter, music, conversations and no blown circuits :)

At this time of year it's easy to coast. just go through the motions. I am so blessed to serve along side a church family that desires to advance not coast. To each of you I give my deepest thanks and sincerely pray that God bless you, surprise you as you did soooooooo many others and me today.

To my wife Cyndi, and my three daughters (Abbi, Sarah & Hannah) thank you for sharing me with others, and for you giving so much of yourselves as well. You four set the pace so often and endure so much as we move with God and risk.
May you all celebrate with me the joy of seeing the risk be worth it all.

What follows, I don't know yet. New doors for Journey are already opening for the summer. I do know, that this will only fuel the passion that is already within us to really reach our city for Jesus.

Merry Christmas... or Savior has come.... and dwells among us... he dwells in you my Journey family.

Misfit toys

During our series on a Christmas Family I referenced the classic movie, "Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer" and the island of misfit toys. A place where all the mixup up, dysfunctional toys go. The King of the island seeks these toys out, gives them a new home, with other misfit toys. They are all wanting to be needed, loved, valued and a part of a real family.

It's that what we all want, and yet we find it so hard to admit that we're all "misfits".
We're dysfunctional in someway.

The church has long been said to be a place where "anyone can come." "Come as you are with hurts, pains, and dysfunction." Yet the church often communicates shock, awe and rejection when the misfits really show up.
Shame on the church.

The King of Kings (Jesus/ God's son) came to live among us and bring us into his family. He came to us in our dysfunction... "come as you are." It's not God that is pushing people away...it's the church, us. It's those that find it hard to admit or remember that they were once a misfit toy as well.

I pray that this Christmas, we return to that simple truth, revealed by God.
"Come as you are."
Transformation will happen as you live in this amazing family and develop a real relationship with God.
But it will happen over time.
So I put a challenge out to myself, my friends, my church and the church at large.

Open wide your doors, let all the misfits and dysfunctional people come and find faith, love and hope this year.
My your home and churches be an island of refuge for the misfits of the world, not those who think that they have it all together.
I'm a misfit. I admit it. Welcome to the island of misfit toys called Journey church.

Special blog for 2009

I just published a new blog for our first discussion series of 2009.
ELEPHANTS IN THE CHURCH.

I want your help in exposing and discussing the "seen" but never discussed big elephants with our churches.
Jump over to.....


http://elephantsinthechurch.blogspot.com


and enter a whole nee conversation. Then as we begin this new adventure on Sunday, January 4th... come back again and again to respond and add to the elephant talk. Don't be silent about it... get excited we're going elephant hunting in 2009.
Let the fun begin.

Family Christmas

As we launch into our December focus on "Family", I am hit by the fact that my family is not near us again this season.
Our closest family is in Iowa, where Cyndi is from. My family is scattered across the world from Colorado, to the former USSR.
So for us (me) as we explore "A Family Christmas" it has a different twist than some might think.

As great as biological family is to many, my church and spiritual family is actually more important.
The family of Journey, and family of church planting pastors that I know mean so much to me. They are my focus, my support team and where I feel loved and needed. Being a part of such a diverse family wonderful and challenging at times. But they are my family. I have picked them, and they for some unknown reason have picked me. It's almost a magical thing to be included in such a family.

Such it is with God. God invites us to join into his family. His family filled with forgiveness, hope, love, joy, long suffering and much more. God personally came to dwell with us, and blend his family with my family. Once together it can't be separated!
For those that read this blog and are a part of my Journey Family... you'll never fully get rid of me. Family is family. Thanks for giving me a family that I can not live with out. You all are near and dear to me and my biological family. May nothing ever separate this amazing growing family that we share in Christ.

Yes it's a mixed up family... but it's my family and I love it!

First snow

Today marks are first real snow of the season. Not the slush stuff, but real snow. So tonight in honor of the first snow... we begin go rearrange the house, put up the tree, and decorate. It means this is the start of Christmas cards arriving in the mail and feeling ok with that, plus the Christmas cook season has officially started as well. Yum yum.

The count down to our big Christmas dinner is officially rolling as well. Less than 20 days. Wow is that fast approaching.
Pray, pray, pray.

Facebook Power

Last night I was reminded how much we have become a internet, instant communication world.
I posted a comment on my Face-book account that I was going to watch MNF at BWW.
As several of us were hanging out, two others showed up that had seen the posting and wanted to join the fun.

It was a great night, chicken fingers only 75 cents!!, lots of laughs, and solid relationship building between men.

Churches today, must take advantage of things like Face-book, podcasting, IM, etc. If we don't we are missing out on a very powerful evangelism tool. People are creating community and building relationships in real time via these internet based networks. I hope and pray the more and more churches seek to make great use of these tools. They are free! They are buzzing with activity and as I found out again last night... they are working as a new doorway to gather people together in the real world and make disciples for Christ.

The internet age is here... is the church, it's leaders and pastors ready to embrace it and go on exciting mission?

Worship Night

Before I head off to bed I must express my deepest thanks to Dave Reynolds and the entire Journey Band. What a great night of Praise and Worship at RCTC. The venue was perfect, the people in attendance sang, clap, shouted and praised God freely.
The band's practice and personal prayer and prep really showed and added so much the experience. You could that they were really enjoying themselves and enjoying worshipping with all of the soul.

It was extra special to be back on the RCTC campus 4 plus years after we launched Journey publicly at the RCTC Heintz Center.
IIt made it extra meaningful to have us come back with such gifts, talents, passions and committed servants. I pray that beyond those that were in the Hill Theater, God's Holy Spirit was felt in a powerful over all of the college campus.

I look forward to our next worship night. And to our upcoming "Family Christmas" event at the 4-H Building on the Olmsted County Fair Grounds. May we also reach up to God and reach out at the same time.

Thank you EVERYONE that served, set-up, teared-down, prayed or played in the band. Your love of God, does not go unnoticed.

Faith, Love & Hope

What a week in the life of this young church family. We talk of being a church of Faith, Love and Hope. A family that really risks and goes the extra mile for those in need. Well the last few weeks and days have seen that lived out.

Our church family emotionally and financially invested big in Jen, a 24 year old here in Rochester for Medical treatment.
Then this week she totals her car, in a car accident with the bad weather. With a neck brace and sling, I drove her back to Duluth where her mom lives and she will be receiving more care.

Two of our own Journey family members seek help and try to get jobs. While our "We Care" fund helps them with food and gas.

Saturday, Mike and Karen Ellsworth's neighbors house burns to the ground, and the Ellsworth's home is smoked filled, so they must evacuate. The Journey family goes into action to help the Ellseworth and their neighbor.

Days and weeks like this are crazy and intense. How many of them can a church take on and survive? Far more than we can imagine if we really believe in being an Acts Chapter 2 type church. A church marked by Faith, Hope and Love. Not merely in words, but action and resources. "They shared everything that they had" (acts 2:43), "they shared everything that they had....They had no needy people among them, because those who owned land or house would sell them and bring the money to the apostles to give to them in need." (acts 4:32, 34).

As we talk about financial matters, as we talk about giving and supporting the church mission through our offerings we often forget how many lives are really impacted by what we give, or don't give. It's a real challenge to be a church marked by generosity when the world is in self-protect and apathy mood. Yet, if we trust in God, risk and invest like we have... and even more. We will be seen as a community of "Faith, Love and Hope."

Some day, could be your day when you need financial aid, support that can only come from our "We Care" fund and the generous gifts and offering that are given and received at our gatherings. Some weeks are more intense than others.
Even as we have helped those that we mentioned, there have phone calls for aid and help that we have not acted on.
The need is great, the committed workers and givers are few.

Thanks for giving and making this week possible. You have made an impact.
No let's do it again, with you give generously this week.

Generis

Sunday, we continued our mini-series on "Trapped". I shared about how early Jesus followers who appeared to have nothing gave generously to the mission of Jesus. It was through their own personal encounter with Jesus, healing, freedom, and passion to have others experience the same thing with Christ that drove them to give generously. Living a generous life, is based on an ever expanding heart for the "Kingdom of God." The more you are transformed, the more that you will want to help us meet Jesus, become free and start living fully alive. Read Luke 8:1-3. Look closely at three ladies that because of thier personal freedom in Christ, freely gave generously to advance the mission and movement of God.

Sunday we used a brief media clip to set up our conversation. Here it is for you to watch... I hope it inspires you as it has others.
Watch it on the side bar of my blog or cut and paste the link below.

http://www.sermonspice.com/videos/12463/closed-fist-syndrome--cfs-

I want to but....

Every week I get the chance to talk to a wide variety of people. Some are followers of Jesus and many are not. What amazes me is how often the subject of money comes up. Money and what people can and can't do with it. Money and how if they only had a little bit more they would finally be able to do such and such a thing. Money is often a limiter in people's lives... or so it seems. So many people are waiting to live and do something great... once they have enough money.

I hear it all the time... "I want to give but I just can't do it now."

Now I understand that many, many people are upside down in debt. But should that limit your giving to God?
Giving to God is directly linked to the heart. A heart that is free from sin, pain, fear, regret, etc. How free is free?

Is God's gift of freedom a great gift to you, or small left over.
Many people live giving from their left overs and never really growing in the faith.
While a few seem to grow and grow while living on the leftovers.
Which are you?

"I want to but".... never worked with Jesus. He was committed to show us how to give generously first... even when it didn't make sense. Yet, the eternal benefits of his generous gift is priceless. What if we stopped waiting for the checkbook to balance perfect, the credit card debt to gone, the gas prices to drop and we just started to give first?

What if we partnered with God and fueled the mission of Jesus to reach the lost, hurt, broken... even as we are being saved, mended and restored.

Sober Birthday

Last night I had the chance to hang with a new friend... Justin. Justin has just completed a re-entry program after serving time for crimes that he committed and drug abuse. Justin has become a Jesus follower and has begun to dive into serving at Journey. Last night, Justin invited several of his new "friends and family" to go celebrate his birthday with a night of bowling.
What a great time. THe scores were low, but the laugh count was high!

As we left, I asked Justin when was the last time that he had a "sober Birthday party?"
He said, at about the age of 12! Over 12 years ago!!!
How sad, but how awesome that he is not only free from prison, sober.. but that he is free of his past and living a whole new life with Jesus and the family of God. I look forward to many more nights like that.

Keep it up Justin. We're proud of you.

Strange Times

As I have been preparing my discussion outline for this Sunday (Nov. 2nd), I have been struck by some very strange and conflicting data. As I explored the depth of the pain and worry that people are facing in light of the current financial crisis I was very surprised. Overall there is a real sense that our entire world is in a global recession and hard times have only just begun.
Banks are broke. Homes are getting foreclosed on and companies are cutting staff left and right.
Yet, surveys show that people feel that they are living better than they have in a long time.

I'm confused.

Collapse of financial securities everywhere and yet families feel that they are doing better than a year ago or more!

Is this possible?
As Jesus followers yes, it is possible because our hope and worth does not come from the stuff of this earth.
Yet, it's not just Christians that feel better off... over half of the population, across the board feels better off.

I'm wondering if we have all begun to see and believe that trusting man and our man-made kingdoms will always fail us.
Maybe more and more of us are seeing the cup is half full and we're able to enjoy what we have, rather than what we don't have.
Or maybe, the skeptic in me says, we're all not buying into the gloom and doom story that we hear and read about each day.
Maybe... we're smarter than what the media and others thing we are.

What the case is... I'm confused. Do we celebrate this sense of "feeling better off" or do teach and prepare people how to deal with the stress, fear, and worries of a strange, strange world?

Men and video games

Friday night we had a great time going to Gameworks and just being men. Ok maybe we were boys again for the night.
15 people in all made the trip to one of the biggest and best arcades in the region. We raced formula one cars, shot zombies, danced, danced, danced to dance revolution and even battled it out in air-hockey.

It's always fun to see how a little bit of heart-pumping action and sound effects can help men bond and get to know each other in new ways. Half of our gang knew each other well either being long term Journey attenders or as apart of the Damascus Way re-entry program. But by the time we had eaten dinner, shot a few zombies... we we're all acting like bog kids together. No separation, just a gang of crazy guys out for a night in the big city.

Sometimes we make outreach harder than it needs to be. That's what I love about Journey. Even the simplest things, can be turned into high impact outreach,fellowship and discipleship opportunities. Keep it simple, keep it fun and open to all.
I can't wait until our next "guys night out".

By the way, we are looking at a Paint-ball day and a fun-loving contest with our daughter church the Crux in 2009.
Oh that will be awesome... men and paint guns. Splat!

Until next time men, keep training hard on the Wii systems and practicel, practice on the shooting range and any local arcade.

Hospital waiting rooms

Today I took a road trip with two good friends to have Bill get a surgery procedure done. I had the chance to see him in a hospital gown, look at a strange sculpture, and visit with his wife Sara all day. It was a long so, fast day all mixed together.
The waiting room environment has changed a lot since over the years. Technology plays a big part of patient care and family waiting. BUt the biggest change in the waiting room was when a golden retriever came up and befriended Sara and I ( along with others in the area). Reba the door brightened the, brought laughter and conversation alive. It was fun ton see how a peaceful, friendly spirit made such an impact on people in tense times.

Maybe the next time that we're in a hospital waiting room... we can have the same effect as Reba the dog.

Get better Bill, and thanks for allowing me to be of service and help you both today!

My Personal Faith

This Sunday we explored the Parable of the 10 Bridesmaids (Matthew 25:1-13)
Half of the bridesmaids we're fully prepared with extra oil and the lamp was burning bright when the bridegroom returned.
The other five, got lazy, bored with waiting for the grooms return and they were unprepared. No oil, no extra oil and there for the did not have a lamp that radiated any light.

It's hard parable, because Jesus teaches very clearly here... your faith is your personal responsibility. If you don't take personal responsibility for it, in the end you will be judged accordingly. Man that's hard to take in from such a God that is know for grace, love, and forgiveness.

The reality is, we live in a world low personal accountability and responsibility. We live in a world that allows for excuses and last minute bail outs, rather than having people take account for their choices or even lack of choices. Making no choice is still make a choice.

In the church, many of us rely others faith. Mom and Dad believe so I must be ok. I go to church, when I can, and I feel refreshed after words so I must go to go. This parable seems really harsh in verse 9, as the five bridesmaid who were prepared say to the other five, "We don't have enough for all of us. Go to the shop and buy some for yourselves."

May faith is mine, I can either keep it fueled, energized or I can run dry.. it's my choice.
The sad part is, if I let run dry, I may miss out on many amazing things that God would love for me to be apart of.
In the end, if my lamp is not shinning, it may effect eternity itself.

The maids all got sleepy, they all nodded off. Yet when the groom came, five still were prepare enough to burn bright and go with the groom (Jesus). I don't know how else to say it, I have to stay awake. I want to help others stay awake.
Everyone can take more responsibility for their own faith... if they really want to. But if you're sleeping life away... I guarantee you're going to miss out on so many things.

How's your faith, your lamp burning these days?
How do you get re-fueled when the faith journey gets long?
How prepared are you to go the distance?
How personal is your faith today?

Drivers License

Well today Cyndi and I entered into a phase of life... we have a 16 year with a drivers license!
It has not been easy for her to pass the final drivers test. Parallel parking.. who really does that anymore anyway.

But today she got-er done!

It's proud day for her and her parents. Plus it's a nervous day for us.
Now she goes on our insurance, can driver alone (when we let her), and she gains more independence and responsibility!

A a mixture of emotions and thoughts... mostly all good.
My little girl is growing up to be a fine young lady... the clock is ticking and today is just a reminder of that.

KINGdoms - Preamble

Week one of the our new discussion series got a lot of people thinking about our world kingdoms vs our heart kingdom.
The heart Kingdom is God's active, present Kingdom among those that follow Jesus and him Lord, Master, Savior, King.
Yet far too many of us don't believe that this heart kingdom can really exist now, or make a lasting impact. So so we continue to try and use man's kingdom to fix our problems and rely on.

Where do you put your trust in man of God?
Jesus taught that our attitude, our heart condition creates a new kingdom. It moves, it grows, it's seen and yet makes a lasting impact, a dangerous impact in the lives of those that are effected by it. It's a hard concept to fully understand I admit. Yet, you can not deny that's it's just as real as any earthly power or kingdom... even more powerful.

It all comes down to your attitude.
Attitudes define and control us. They our daily course in life so often.

So sound off... what's your attitude? Is it focused on earthly stuff or the unshakeable, eternal values of God?

Church planters retreat

I just got back from a two day church planters retreat in Whalen, MN... south of Lanesboro.
This annual get away has always been important to me and my wife. It's a time of relaxing, refueling and reconnected with like minded brothers and sisters that face many of the same highs and lows we have do each week, month, year.

This year EVERYONE physically tired. It was a two day... nap for many of the leaders and couples. We've had years when couples have come in battle weary and worn... this year it was simply a energy break for most people. It was really strange. No late night card games, no earth shattering stories or prayer request. It was like any of the 4 prior years that I've attended.

Yet it was great in a different way. I was able to share this time with Bill Ellingson ( Director at Journey/ best friend and great guy)
He just lost his job at Qwest and the timing of this retreat was perfect for him and his place in life. Plus he heard and connected with other crazy ducks like me. Yes, that's a good thing.

It was much needed get away as we press forward into fall and a extra special holiday season at Journey.

Crazy daze!

I really love what I do for a living! Yet, often I get questions (not jokes) what do you really do all day?
It's hard to explain how some days, even weeks are smooth, calm, organized and I read, dream and actually do what seems like very little "work" as most people may call it.

Then there are days and weeks when everything hits and hits and hits.
Yesterday was a great example of a crazy day after several days or peace, prep and dreaming.

9:00 - 11:00 met with another are Pastor.... great time sharing what God is doing in both of our church communities.
11:00 - 11:30 receive call that key leader lost his job of 7 years (BIG SURPRISE)
Noon - 2 p.m. lunch meeting with a new couple to our church that is facing major life/ family issues.
2- 4 p.m. - Visit guy who was let go from job and talked with another person about some major life struggles.
4:30 walk in house, my phone rings and I receive new that "uncle Bob" former attender of Journey just passed away after long battle with Cancer. 1/2 talk on phone with grieving young man about this family loss.
8:30 p.m. as I go to turn off cell phone (off by 9 each night), call comes in from teenager wanting to meet next week and has lost of questions about emotions he feeling and who is God.

I love these type of days. Really.
I feel that I am really serving, ministering, helping people in the name of Jesus.
I feel extremely close God because I must lean on Him, his strength and understand. I must stay linked with God or I would crack and be a nut case.
I'm also glad that God has wired me to transition quickly from joy to sadness.
But I'm also glad that I had several days of calm, peace and dreaming. My battery was spiritually and emotionally charged to face a day like yesterday.

I do not wish pain or hardship on anyone.... but I am glad that God has wired me to do this amazing job called Church planting and pastor a church or searching people.

Upside down teaching

This week we wrapped up our series on Relationship Tag and I lead a discussion God's radical call to forgiveness... not "I'm sorry".
What wild and crazy LIFE group we had on Sunday night as we went deeper into this topic. Real struggles shared and real desire to try and live out forgiveness at this Kingdom level.

Look at what Jesus says on this matter - Matthew 5:23-24
"So if you are presenting your sacrifice at the alter in the temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice at the alter. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God."

God cares more about relationships than our checkbook/ offering... WOW!
STOP... don't play religious games... address the issues of a strained relationship.
GO.... don't expect someone else to do this... you are called to action.
FORGIVE... release the other from the anger, pain, hardship.... even if they don't receive it... you do your part.
GIVE... then come back and give generously from a free heart... giving will be even more natural and important.

This idea is very personal and is a form or sacrificial worship in itself. You give up your rights to be be right and you give forgiveness, praying and working toward reconciliation. There are no guarantees...but Jesus says Go.

Churches may have some "small" giving weeks if we really live this out.
But in the long run, we may have freer people, and more generous, praise giving people.

Radical, risky, of a whole other mindset. A Kingdom mindset that comes from God, not this world.
What do you think?

FireProof the movie

Last night Cyndi and I went on a date and watched a new film called "FIREPROOF".
The film was produced, written and directed by the same people (church) that created "Facing the Giants" and "Flywheel"

The quality, acting, humor and depth that display in dealing the painful reality of a marriage gone cold and bad is incredible.
They pull no punches and they don't make it easy to simply come back together.
The film is coming out just as we wrap up our series on "Tag". And man are there several great scenes of tag played out in this story. It make be fiction, but it's based on so much truth.

Plus the 40 day love challenge show in the film will blow you away.

It's a 5 star film. It may not be "Family / kids film" this time, but it's an important film.
By the way, Kirk Cameron gives his best acting performance in this film. Really... he does a great job.

Invest in your marriage, deepen your desire to really love your spouse and go see FIREPROOF.

"never leave your partner in a fire."

Storms

I loved the weather yesterday! It was juts the right temp and I could feel all day long that we were in for a fun storm.
I got in the house at 7 p.m and the rain was falling, the winds were picking up and it was DARK.
So cool.
Then the thunderclaps began and it was even better. (Not all my kids agreed at this point)

Then storms fade around 9:30.
At 11 I went to bed and there was a cool breeze blowing in the bedroom window and a casual rain fall.
Then at Midnight... BANG! The storm was back.
It was so loud!

I loved it.

What can I say.... I'm a freak sometimes.

Church Growth

We are called to make disciples, God said that he would build his church.
I love that our focus is to be on people not organization and power. Throughout history the church has focused on power.... power over people and their lives by fear, guilt and sin.

We all sin. We all know that we sin. Sin is a never ending battle that we all face, and we all face the shame and regret that comes with it. We don't need religious leaders and organizations reminding us over and over again how bad we are.
The first century religious system had fallen into that and look how that helped people grow with God and one another.

Jesus came and exposed that fear power driven system. Jesus often could be heard sayings things like "you say, but I say.
Or "you say, but God says." Jesus was always trying to draw us back to original mission, of saving mankind by faith, hope and love... not fear and manipulation.

The church in the first in the first century exploded on the scene through people and personal relationship. Not a system. They had no system. They had not officially building to gather at. Read Acts 2:42-47.

I love it that within the last year Journey has grown through very personal relationships. 6 babies have been born in 12 months.
More families are coming than ever before... of all ages. If we continue to focus on real people, real issues, and develop real relationships we too may explode like the early church. Systems will come and develop out of need and natural gifts and passions... not out fear and control. In don't want to control people, God or the Holy Spirit. I want to see people live free full lives, that are passion-driven under God's love and directed by the Holy Spirit.

The church will grow... as long as we stay focused on the mission of making disciples... not making "churches"

Tough start today

I got this morning and started a new day. A happy Friday. It's been a good week.
This morning I was to meet with several fellow Pastors that sever in the SE part of MN. This is a monthly meeting a great time of fellowship and growth.

On the way to buying coffee and donuts for this meeting I hit a dog with my car.
Another driver and I picked up the dog, put it in my truck and drove to the nearby Vet emergency clinic.
Needless to say, the poor dog did not make it.

Not how I had planned to start my day. It's amazing how you can be moving along just great and then tragedy actually jumps out of front of you. In a church like the one I lead, death is such a forgotten thing. Youth is great, death is not on the radar.
Even though I did not know this dog, it affected my thoughts and actions for the day.

Today I killed a dog, the hard part is.... I have no idea whose pet it was. There is no one to report to, or ask forgiveness of.
That makes it even stranger to shake off.

Let's hope that aren't many days like this one coming around soon.

Pastor Greg Boyd

I just returned from the fall kick off of the our local Pastors fellowship monthly meeting. We had the chance to hear from Pastor Greg Boyd (Woodland Hills Church, Mpls). I have not always agreed 100% with what Greg has published or taught on. Yet, today I found his talk very much in line with how we are teaching people to transform the world through transformed lives. Not by a political agenda or pushing our way on to the world. Rather by living so radically different as Jesus followers, we will be seen as different and therefore bring about change.

Greg said it well there are two sets of kingdom questions. Kingdom questions of this world and kingdom questions of God's kingdom. How will we answer them? Under whose authority and value system do you live by?

Jesus lived a radical, counter-cultural life and yet did not picket and march on Rome. Rather he lived a life that created a power struggle that came through sacrifice, death, faith, love and hope. We have bought into the idea that we are called to reform the world, when we have been called to transform lives. The world will be transformed, reform will come.. as lives are radically transformed to follow the ways of Jesus. Die to self. Willing risk for others when it doesn't make sense.

It was refreshing to hear Pastor Boyd share how he lost 1,000 people that attended his church as he taught these biblical truths.
The church was to be a movement, not a monument. Movements make impact and shape the cultural and time that we live in.
It also is costly because it causes people to choice a value system. Therefore it will shake up our churches and lives. Jesus said,
"count the cost". It dangerous and exciting to hear another person today, speak with a kindred heart on these kingdom matters.

There is a battle raging... it's timeless.
It's not a war of flesh and blood... but of spiritual values and kingdoms.

Thanks for the reminder today... Greg.

Tag...the orginal relationship game

We all crave love, intimacy and deep friendships. So why is it that we so often find ourselves playing tag with those very same people? Tag... the game with very little rules, but can create very deep wounds. Tag..."I'm more right that you." Tag..."You're it and I'm". I can not count how many games of tag that Cyndi and I have played in our 19 plus years of marriage. What's strange is there have been times when we've known exactly what we're doing and yet we don't stop, we don't shut down the "game."

Why do we always have to be right?
Why don't we see protecting love, unity and oneness as more important that coming out on top?

Mankind started this never ending game of tag, and yet it was God who sent Jesus Christ to end the "game."
Jesus willing submitted to his fathers plan and died on the cross.
Jesus the one guy who was always right, always perfect, always loving... submitted unto death because restoring UNITY and ONENESS was more important to God than being right.

We may not like the word submit, because it means that we give up our "rights" to tag someone else.
Submit sounds like such a lower class word. Yet our greatest hero, freely submitted and gained victory.

Which is more important being "right" or living and loving in an amazing relationship built on respect, honor, and oneness?
You want to stop playing tag... step back and submit for the sake of the relationship.

It's the hardest thing that you can do... and yet it's the best thing that we can do.

NFL replays

Tonight I had some guys over to watch the Packer vs Vikings on Monday NIght Football. There were both Packer and Viking fans in the room and we all agreed that the broadcast lacked.... a lot. Especially when it came to showing replays. Replays are always fun to watch and you often learn a lot about a team or player. What made this nights replays... or lack there of ... was that on several key, questionable plays.... we never saw the replay!!!!!

Over the last few years there has been talk that since the NFL doesn't have paid "professional" officials, broadcast networks and replay system at the game sights must be careful not to embarrass the officials. Well there were over 20 penalties in the game tonight including a "offensive man down field" cal that cost the packers a TD!!!!

Even the Viking fans watching the game its was poor call and deserved a better look for everyone.

I don't if ESPN... "leader in sports" just had a bad broadcast night because of their double heard game night or what.
I just hope that the NFL hasn't forced the broadcaster to avoid showing us the tough calls. We deserve to see the tough calls and it's always been apart of the NFL process.

And what's up with the game number #2 game??? Can't ESPN get a better broadcast team than MIke, Mike and Mike?
Maybe that's another post.

NFL 2008 is here!

I always love it when the preseason is over and the NFL kicks off the regular season. You can feel the intensity rise... bang it's game on! What's hard is that the NFL schedule has become more disconnected. Thursday, September 5th was the first game of the new season. Not Monday NIght or even a prime-time Sunday game. It was so strange to watch the Giants play the Redskins on Thursday night and really believe that this was the start of something exciting.

None the less, the season is underway.

This Monday night my Green Bay Packers battle the Minnesota Vikings in game #1 of a MNF double header. (I still have issues that ESPN has the Monday night broadcast. But that's another rant). So much has been said and made about Brett Farve, his behavior, his passion to play again and his going to the Jets. All of that is behind us... sort of. The Monday night broadcast team will have plenty to talk about both on and off the field. I am actually excited to see what Aaron Rodgers can do in his first official NFL start. Minnesota isn't a great power house team and has many questions on their team as well. So anything can happen on opening night. Risks takers and dreams are coming to play it out on the grid iron.

It's a redefining year for many teams in the league. Who will emerge as the new star of the league? Who will fall from grace and become the team that blew it? So strap it on, and gear up on munchies and Mt. Dew it's game time again. It just makes you want to go tackle someone!