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.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
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
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
Saturday, February 07, 2009
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?
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?
Thursday, January 29, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, January 19, 2009
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.
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.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
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
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
Saturday, January 10, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
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.
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.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
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!
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!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
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?
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?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, November 10, 2008
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-
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-
Saturday, November 08, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
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.
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.
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