If you have been reading my blog, you will notice that we are wanting to do some fasting as a church. I mentioned last week about the Daniel fast. It is great. I am getting ready to fast again real soon.
Here is an excerpt from an email I got earlier today...
"I can't believe how much closer I feel to God - I realize its hardly a sacrifice compared to others, but I've never really done anything like this before. Yesterday I felt a little shaky with low blood sugar and instead of rushing home to eat snacks, I prayed and it was different than usual praying - its hard to describe, but it I felt a lot more powerful over my bodily urges than I ever have before. Anyway, I wanted to share my gratitude for recommending the fast..."
God is working on our behalf. Please consider the Daniel Fast soon for the fall growth of our church and your personal spiritual development.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
What a weekend
Just wanted to post a second about a great weekend.
Front to back I felt like God was really with us and several got some help. Worship was off the chain. Didnt you love the "He has made me glad" song? I love to sing scripture. God is our strength, our strong tower, deliver and our ever present help in time of need. Simply amazing.
We had 133 in service. We are busting at the seams. The transition to theater 11 is going to be so helpful. I cant wait. We just need everyone to move to the center to leave room for guests and those who trickle in a few minutes late... :)
More people signed up for the baptism in September. Wasn't that video awesome! I will attempt to load it up later tonight. We are up to about 16 right now!
I know that the teaching from God's word about the lie "I am not good enough" was helpful. Several people received some healing.
Here are a few comments from Sunday:
"You have know idea how much I needed to hear that" with tears in his eyes...
and another...
"I have only been coming two weeks, and have in the past been an accuser of the brethren, but this is going to change my life..."
Remember its God's plan for all to know Him. Lives are being changed weekly at JCFC.
Please continue to pray.
Front to back I felt like God was really with us and several got some help. Worship was off the chain. Didnt you love the "He has made me glad" song? I love to sing scripture. God is our strength, our strong tower, deliver and our ever present help in time of need. Simply amazing.
We had 133 in service. We are busting at the seams. The transition to theater 11 is going to be so helpful. I cant wait. We just need everyone to move to the center to leave room for guests and those who trickle in a few minutes late... :)
More people signed up for the baptism in September. Wasn't that video awesome! I will attempt to load it up later tonight. We are up to about 16 right now!
I know that the teaching from God's word about the lie "I am not good enough" was helpful. Several people received some healing.
Here are a few comments from Sunday:
"You have know idea how much I needed to hear that" with tears in his eyes...
and another...
"I have only been coming two weeks, and have in the past been an accuser of the brethren, but this is going to change my life..."
Remember its God's plan for all to know Him. Lives are being changed weekly at JCFC.
Please continue to pray.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Random Thoughts
1. I am finishing up at the office today. Excited to go home and go on a much needed date with my lovely wife. I cant wait to see her.
Got my first disgruntled call from a random person today. A lady called and asked us to not put up signs any where in her entire neighbor hood. (We put out about 45 yard signs all over town yesterday afternoon). She then hoped that our church would grow and do well.
Our signs are a great advertising piece, and while we sure dont want to offend anyone, there might be someone in that neighbor looking for a place just like JCFC. I hope this lady is a part of a great church and just doesnt like yard signs.
I was very appreciative that she didnt toss the signs, but left them for me. I picked them up today.
If you need one for your yard, leave a post. We will get you one!
2. I have scheduled a work day tomorrow at the office! We are getting the cabinets set and organized, tops installed and things cleaned up! So if your in the mood to hold some heavy objects, and clean come on over around 10:30.
3. This weekend is going to be great as we look at sermon number 3 in the top 4 sermons of the Peoples Choice. We are looking at the lie "I am not good enough." Invite a friend via e-invite or the invites from your bulletin last week.
4. I am so stoked about our Baptismal service. Had coffee with another guy today who is on the list to get wet! Love it.
5. We are making plans to move the theater number 11 this fall! So exciting! It is going to be awesome! Two entrances and exits! More seats, better lighting. Same comfy chairs and cupholders! Look for it on September 2nd!
Got my first disgruntled call from a random person today. A lady called and asked us to not put up signs any where in her entire neighbor hood. (We put out about 45 yard signs all over town yesterday afternoon). She then hoped that our church would grow and do well.
Our signs are a great advertising piece, and while we sure dont want to offend anyone, there might be someone in that neighbor looking for a place just like JCFC. I hope this lady is a part of a great church and just doesnt like yard signs.
I was very appreciative that she didnt toss the signs, but left them for me. I picked them up today.
If you need one for your yard, leave a post. We will get you one!
2. I have scheduled a work day tomorrow at the office! We are getting the cabinets set and organized, tops installed and things cleaned up! So if your in the mood to hold some heavy objects, and clean come on over around 10:30.
3. This weekend is going to be great as we look at sermon number 3 in the top 4 sermons of the Peoples Choice. We are looking at the lie "I am not good enough." Invite a friend via e-invite or the invites from your bulletin last week.
4. I am so stoked about our Baptismal service. Had coffee with another guy today who is on the list to get wet! Love it.
5. We are making plans to move the theater number 11 this fall! So exciting! It is going to be awesome! Two entrances and exits! More seats, better lighting. Same comfy chairs and cupholders! Look for it on September 2nd!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Criticism
Sunday I taught on How to Handle Criticism. It was the first in the People's Choice series.
The quick recap is that there are 3 right ways to deal with criticism.
1. Listen if it is actually constructive criticism.
There is a time that people who actually want to help you, can encourage you with some things you might need to change. Be open enough to hear it, if they are healthy.
2. You might need to answer the criticism.
Sometimes critics don't know the whole story, and are criticizing because they think they know the whole story. In this case you need to give them an appropriate response.
3. You need to dismiss invalid criticism.
Those who are constantly critical, unfortunately, rarely change. When you are receiving criticism from those critics you need to just let it go.
Hurt people hurt people.
We can really only effectively please God. Too often we spend so much time pleasing others, that we fail to even recognize that we haven't considered pleasing God.
Our first and most important objective in life is pleasing God.
The quick recap is that there are 3 right ways to deal with criticism.
1. Listen if it is actually constructive criticism.
There is a time that people who actually want to help you, can encourage you with some things you might need to change. Be open enough to hear it, if they are healthy.
2. You might need to answer the criticism.
Sometimes critics don't know the whole story, and are criticizing because they think they know the whole story. In this case you need to give them an appropriate response.
3. You need to dismiss invalid criticism.
Those who are constantly critical, unfortunately, rarely change. When you are receiving criticism from those critics you need to just let it go.
Hurt people hurt people.
We can really only effectively please God. Too often we spend so much time pleasing others, that we fail to even recognize that we haven't considered pleasing God.
Our first and most important objective in life is pleasing God.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
6 Wings of Prayer (part six)
Faith – to believe there is nothing too hard for God!
1. Faith to believe in and receive Christ as Forgiver and Leader
2. Faith to believe God’s Word is always truth
3. Faith to willingly and joyfully obey God’s Word
4. Faith to believe for people’s salvation
5. Faith to believe God’s vision He gives us can be fulfilled
6. Faith to trust God for our future needs
7. Faith to trust God for our future relationships
8. Faith to believe God will never leave us or forsake us
9. Faith to trust God’s leading through other people’s lives
10. Faith to trust the leading of God’s Spirit in us
Jeremiah 32:17 & 27 – “O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!…I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?”
Matthew 21-22 – “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Ephesians 3:20 – “Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus”
1. Faith to believe in and receive Christ as Forgiver and Leader
2. Faith to believe God’s Word is always truth
3. Faith to willingly and joyfully obey God’s Word
4. Faith to believe for people’s salvation
5. Faith to believe God’s vision He gives us can be fulfilled
6. Faith to trust God for our future needs
7. Faith to trust God for our future relationships
8. Faith to believe God will never leave us or forsake us
9. Faith to trust God’s leading through other people’s lives
10. Faith to trust the leading of God’s Spirit in us
Jeremiah 32:17 & 27 – “O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!…I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?”
Matthew 21-22 – “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Ephesians 3:20 – “Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus”
Monday, July 23, 2007
Row, Row Row your Boat
Have you ever watched the rowing teams in college? First those guys are lean! Second they all have to be rowing in the same rhythm with the same intensity. Successful rowing isnt just tossing a bunch of guys in a boat and telling them to handle it. It is a purposeful prescribed event.
Patrick Lencioni says in his book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, in the introduction that a friend of his said, "If you could get all the people in an organization rowing in the same direction, you could dominate any industry, in any market, against any competition, at any time."
Pretty profound thoughts. I whole hearted agree with this statement. The difficulty is getting everyone really rowing together.
I firmly believe that the problem with the church in the US and many of the local churches is that we are all rowing in different directions.
I am working hard to make sure we have a laser beam focus on what God is wanting to do in our community through JCFC. I have been praying and asking God for wisdom beyond my years. If you are not yet praying the 6 wings of pray, I challenge you to begin to do so.
I went on a 21 day Daniel fast earlier this year. I feel God is leading me toward a Daniel Fast again. I am not sure about time frame, but I am challenging you to pray and fast with me for the growth of the kingdom of God in our community.
I believe that the hope of the world lies within the local church that is committed to Christ and his teaching and authority!
Which way are you rowing?
Patrick Lencioni says in his book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, in the introduction that a friend of his said, "If you could get all the people in an organization rowing in the same direction, you could dominate any industry, in any market, against any competition, at any time."
Pretty profound thoughts. I whole hearted agree with this statement. The difficulty is getting everyone really rowing together.
I firmly believe that the problem with the church in the US and many of the local churches is that we are all rowing in different directions.
I am working hard to make sure we have a laser beam focus on what God is wanting to do in our community through JCFC. I have been praying and asking God for wisdom beyond my years. If you are not yet praying the 6 wings of pray, I challenge you to begin to do so.
I went on a 21 day Daniel fast earlier this year. I feel God is leading me toward a Daniel Fast again. I am not sure about time frame, but I am challenging you to pray and fast with me for the growth of the kingdom of God in our community.
I believe that the hope of the world lies within the local church that is committed to Christ and his teaching and authority!
Which way are you rowing?
6 Wings of Prayer (part five)
Ask God for Favor with God and Favor with People
1. Favor for witnessing
2. People learn God’s wisdom from our counsel
3. God to go before us and prepare the way & open doors of opportunity
4. God to go before us and prepare people’s attitudes and wills
5. God to cause people to like us, listen to us and want to be with us.
Luke 2:52 -- “So Jesus grew both in height and in wisdom, and he was loved by God and by all who knew him.”
Psalm 37:1-7 – “Don't worry about the wicked. Don't envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away.Like springtime flowers, they soon wither. Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the LORD,and he will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. Be still in the presence of the LORD,and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.”
Acts 2:22-27 – “A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together constantly and shared everything they had. They sold their possessions and shared the proceeds with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity--all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved.”
1. Favor for witnessing
2. People learn God’s wisdom from our counsel
3. God to go before us and prepare the way & open doors of opportunity
4. God to go before us and prepare people’s attitudes and wills
5. God to cause people to like us, listen to us and want to be with us.
Luke 2:52 -- “So Jesus grew both in height and in wisdom, and he was loved by God and by all who knew him.”
Psalm 37:1-7 – “Don't worry about the wicked. Don't envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away.Like springtime flowers, they soon wither. Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the LORD,and he will give you your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence as clear as the dawn,and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun. Be still in the presence of the LORD,and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.”
Acts 2:22-27 – “A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together constantly and shared everything they had. They sold their possessions and shared the proceeds with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity--all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved.”
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Volunteers Wanted
Just thought I'd post for a minute before I hit the hay about some great ministry opportunities!
We are gearing up for an awesome fall. We are sending out 11,000 pieces of mail and we could use your help in labeling them. This is a great event to serve as we tell others in our community about JCFC!
Our band is looking to add some members to create a better rotation for the month. If you have some interest in the band side of things see Nate or email him. You do need some musical proficiency and you need to try out, but it is a great way to be a part of the team.
We are going to putting together a schedule of ushers, greeters and hosts for the parking lot, hallways, and theaters. We need couples, singles and everyone to be involved to help our guests feel at home. Your service in this area will make all the difference!
There are so many more areas to serve. If you are looking for a place to plug in email me or Shanna and we will get you connected. I think its vitally important to serve at least once a month!
Lets do something great for this city together.
We are gearing up for an awesome fall. We are sending out 11,000 pieces of mail and we could use your help in labeling them. This is a great event to serve as we tell others in our community about JCFC!
Our band is looking to add some members to create a better rotation for the month. If you have some interest in the band side of things see Nate or email him. You do need some musical proficiency and you need to try out, but it is a great way to be a part of the team.
We are going to putting together a schedule of ushers, greeters and hosts for the parking lot, hallways, and theaters. We need couples, singles and everyone to be involved to help our guests feel at home. Your service in this area will make all the difference!
There are so many more areas to serve. If you are looking for a place to plug in email me or Shanna and we will get you connected. I think its vitally important to serve at least once a month!
Lets do something great for this city together.
Black Red White
I don't read a lot of fiction books any more. I love a good fiction book, but I just don't make time for it. As you know from previous posts, I am good at reading several books at a time :)
Mark Main, our church minister of books, (his spiritual gift is books I think, as he is constantly putting a book in someones hand) gave me the audio version of Ted Dekker's trilogy, Black, White, Red.
I waited a bit to get into, but man, I just love them. It is like CS Lewis meets Frank Peretti meets Tim Lahaye. The books are great, and too involved to bring you up to speed here, but they have thrown me into a tailspin. I haven't been so moved to look at people through God's eyes in such a way from a fictional book ever.
I began to read them as a treat to myself, and found God using that very thing to compel me into the Great Romance he has for the entire world. Amazing to just ponder how much God loves his creation.
Thank you that you use the small things in my life to have such a major impact on me. God help me to continue to see people as you see them. Thank you for showing me your love, please continue to show me your heart.
Mark Main, our church minister of books, (his spiritual gift is books I think, as he is constantly putting a book in someones hand) gave me the audio version of Ted Dekker's trilogy, Black, White, Red.
I waited a bit to get into, but man, I just love them. It is like CS Lewis meets Frank Peretti meets Tim Lahaye. The books are great, and too involved to bring you up to speed here, but they have thrown me into a tailspin. I haven't been so moved to look at people through God's eyes in such a way from a fictional book ever.
I began to read them as a treat to myself, and found God using that very thing to compel me into the Great Romance he has for the entire world. Amazing to just ponder how much God loves his creation.
Thank you that you use the small things in my life to have such a major impact on me. God help me to continue to see people as you see them. Thank you for showing me your love, please continue to show me your heart.
6 Wings of Prayer (part four)
Ask for Power with God, with people and over sin in my life
1. Life decisions
2. Protection from temptations
3. Strength to do God’s work and will
4. God living His live through us so our work is spiritual
5. Obedience to the Word of God
6. God’s power in our witnessing to others
7. Protection from evil people and evil things
8. God’s protection from life’s testings
Proverbs 3:1-2 – “My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart, for they will give you a long and satisfying life.”
Proverbs 3:3-4 – “Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace; write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will gain a good reputation.”
Proverbs 3:5-8 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn your back on evil. Then you will gain renewed health and vitality.”
1. Life decisions
2. Protection from temptations
3. Strength to do God’s work and will
4. God living His live through us so our work is spiritual
5. Obedience to the Word of God
6. God’s power in our witnessing to others
7. Protection from evil people and evil things
8. God’s protection from life’s testings
Proverbs 3:1-2 – “My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart, for they will give you a long and satisfying life.”
Proverbs 3:3-4 – “Never let loyalty and kindness get away from you! Wear them like a necklace; write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will gain a good reputation.”
Proverbs 3:5-8 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn your back on evil. Then you will gain renewed health and vitality.”
Friday, July 20, 2007
6 Wings of Prayer (part three)
Ask God for Wisdom and Knowledge far beyond your ability
1. Marriage
2. Career
3. Relationships
4. Choices
5. Purchases
6. Retirement decisions
7. Financial management
8. Political choices
James 1:5-8 -- “If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.”
1. Marriage
2. Career
3. Relationships
4. Choices
5. Purchases
6. Retirement decisions
7. Financial management
8. Political choices
James 1:5-8 -- “If you need wisdom--if you want to know what God wants you to do--ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.”
Thursday, July 19, 2007
You have to see this
Watch for me in the human trapeze about 3/4 through. I am not flying, just holding the guys up.
Out of this world.
Out of this world.
Alpha
One of the things I love about Alpha is listening to peoples comments about how they feel about their new relationship with Christ. Dara and I were talking about how amazing it is.
One of the most common phrases is "I just have so much peace, you cant explain it." I love to hear it.
Philipians 4:7
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
I love to see the fruit of the spirit growing in people's lives. It is all about life change!
One of the most common phrases is "I just have so much peace, you cant explain it." I love to hear it.
Philipians 4:7
Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
I love to see the fruit of the spirit growing in people's lives. It is all about life change!
6 Wings of Prayer (part two)
Here is the next part enjoy... notice number 8:)
Ask God for Love for others
1. Parents
2. Mate
3. Children
4. Neighbors
5. Co-workers
6. Employer
7. Governmental Leaders
8. Pastors
9. Extended Families
10. Needy
Matthew 22:39-40 – “A second is equally important: `Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the other commandments and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."
Ask God for Love for others
1. Parents
2. Mate
3. Children
4. Neighbors
5. Co-workers
6. Employer
7. Governmental Leaders
8. Pastors
9. Extended Families
10. Needy
Matthew 22:39-40 – “A second is equally important: `Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the other commandments and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."
Randomness
While I was helping Dara clean up after Alpha, I had this strange thought. I was scrubbing the hound out of a cooker. One of those electric roasting pans. Well I had a scrub pad and some soap and water, and working away.
Now it occurred to me that I am able to use a brillo pad and not scratch or damage the finish on this $30 pan, but what about our $30,000 cars? You can park to close to a bush and scratch the fire out of it... Why cant they build cars with type of finish?
Deep thoughts...
Now it occurred to me that I am able to use a brillo pad and not scratch or damage the finish on this $30 pan, but what about our $30,000 cars? You can park to close to a bush and scratch the fire out of it... Why cant they build cars with type of finish?
Deep thoughts...
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
6 Wings of Prayer (part one)
I challenge you to pray this through this list today. Spend some time on each area and prayer from your heart. Use the words that come to mind, and don't be afraid to speak commonly to God. He desires us to converse with him just as a father wants his child to speak to him. No fear or anger, distance or hurt feelings. He loves you, He created you, He desires you.
Here is a copy of some of the info Tom has sent me...Notice the Scriptures at the end.
Tell God how much you love Him and why
1. Faithfulness
2. Love
3. Promises
4. Generosity
5. Presence
6. Power
7. Provision
8. Purity
9. Availability
10. Desire to hear and answer our prayers
Matthew 22:36-38 -- "Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?" Jesus replied, "`You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.”
Psalm 37:4 – “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.”
Psalm 84:11 – “For the Lord God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good things will the Lord withhold from those who do what is right.”
John 16:24 – “You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.”
Ephesians 3:18-19 – “And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.”
Here is a copy of some of the info Tom has sent me...Notice the Scriptures at the end.
Tell God how much you love Him and why
1. Faithfulness
2. Love
3. Promises
4. Generosity
5. Presence
6. Power
7. Provision
8. Purity
9. Availability
10. Desire to hear and answer our prayers
Matthew 22:36-38 -- "Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?" Jesus replied, "`You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.”
Psalm 37:4 – “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.”
Psalm 84:11 – “For the Lord God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good things will the Lord withhold from those who do what is right.”
John 16:24 – “You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.”
Ephesians 3:18-19 – “And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.”
Prayer
I have been spending some time with Tom Allen pastor at Point of Grace. He is a very godly man full of wisdom. Well I have been picking his brain about a variety of topics. I have been trying to figure out what has set him apart from some of the other pastors that I have known.
I think I have finally put my finger on it. He has a set regime of things he prays on a daily basis. he has done this since he was 12. Over the next week I will posting each of what Tom calls the Six Wings of Prayer.
He also has a link at his church to download a booklet he and a few others put together. It is a 14 day prayer guide. Awesome.
I have been praying through these my self and it has been great! Be watching for each of the 6 wings of prayer.
I think I have finally put my finger on it. He has a set regime of things he prays on a daily basis. he has done this since he was 12. Over the next week I will posting each of what Tom calls the Six Wings of Prayer.
He also has a link at his church to download a booklet he and a few others put together. It is a 14 day prayer guide. Awesome.
I have been praying through these my self and it has been great! Be watching for each of the 6 wings of prayer.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Fall at the church
I have been spending some time analyzing the ups and downs of our church in the last few weeks. Where we are strong and where we are weak. We really do a lot of things well, I think. We have a great team that works hard, but given all that there are things in the theater we have to overcome.
Now, I love the theater, it is a great conversation piece. It allows an easy invite to the church. People always ask where do we meet for service. When they hear the theater, they are like how does that work?
But building community in the theater can be difficult. Also creating age appropriate kids experiences is vital as well. So here is what I am going to propose coming this fall.
We are going to be doing some theater moving around, and regrouping. I would love to see us split our kids program into several services. Two Nursery theaters, and three kids services.
The kids services would be Pre K, Kindergarten to 2nd grade, and 3rd-5th. That being said, it will require a lot of set up, tear down, and volunteers. But I feel like for us to continue to reach this city we need to step toward this. Parents with kids want their children in a service geared directly for them. ( I meet lot of people who want to bring their kids to church for the good moral teaching they learn as kids. So I am willing to do whatever to get the parents in to hear some good teaching for them also. So if that means working through the kids to win the parents, I am up for it)
I have run across some good used portable gear. It is only 8 months old and I can buy it for 70% of the new price. Quite the bargain.
I also am looking at moving the entrance we use. In the fall we are going to have a series called Chase the Lion, grabbing life by the mane. We are going to do that as a church as well. We are going to move to using the main entrance and have coffee bar area set up there for before service. It will open at 9:45 and be ready for everyone to fellowship together!
It is going to be great. We need all hands on deck so to speak, so get ready to volunteer and make a difference in some ones elses life! Remember how you have been impacted by God through JCFC and think about how you can impact someone else.
This is going to take some serious prayer, volunteers, and money. Pray about how you will fit!
Now, I love the theater, it is a great conversation piece. It allows an easy invite to the church. People always ask where do we meet for service. When they hear the theater, they are like how does that work?
But building community in the theater can be difficult. Also creating age appropriate kids experiences is vital as well. So here is what I am going to propose coming this fall.
We are going to be doing some theater moving around, and regrouping. I would love to see us split our kids program into several services. Two Nursery theaters, and three kids services.
The kids services would be Pre K, Kindergarten to 2nd grade, and 3rd-5th. That being said, it will require a lot of set up, tear down, and volunteers. But I feel like for us to continue to reach this city we need to step toward this. Parents with kids want their children in a service geared directly for them. ( I meet lot of people who want to bring their kids to church for the good moral teaching they learn as kids. So I am willing to do whatever to get the parents in to hear some good teaching for them also. So if that means working through the kids to win the parents, I am up for it)
I have run across some good used portable gear. It is only 8 months old and I can buy it for 70% of the new price. Quite the bargain.
I also am looking at moving the entrance we use. In the fall we are going to have a series called Chase the Lion, grabbing life by the mane. We are going to do that as a church as well. We are going to move to using the main entrance and have coffee bar area set up there for before service. It will open at 9:45 and be ready for everyone to fellowship together!
It is going to be great. We need all hands on deck so to speak, so get ready to volunteer and make a difference in some ones elses life! Remember how you have been impacted by God through JCFC and think about how you can impact someone else.
This is going to take some serious prayer, volunteers, and money. Pray about how you will fit!
Organization
I don't know what has come over me, but I have been in this organizer mode. (I know all the women in my life that help me, shout hurrah) I have cleaned out my closet and have everything positioned and arranged. Took a big load to Good Will!
I spent some time yesterday cleaning out my computer and organizing files. It was a monumental task but very necessary. I challenge you, if you are at all like me, to just toss stuff. You don't need EVERYTHING, I know you think you are going to need it, but you probably wont.
I learned from the 43 folders a good trick. To create a folder on your desk top and mark it delete as of such date (one week from the day you create it). Put everything on your desktop in it! What you haven't used my next week, you should probably toss, or file appropriately.
I forced me to go through my whole documents folder, pics, music, movies, everything. I trashed a lot of stuff. Now I am set up, and ready to run.
It may sound stupid, but it helps to me know little things like that are done. In my mind I know and want to do things like this, but on one hand it feels like a "waste of time" to just organize. Really though, it helps me feel a little relaxed in the back of my mind.
Crazy, but I am becoming one of them...
The office is next.
I spent some time yesterday cleaning out my computer and organizing files. It was a monumental task but very necessary. I challenge you, if you are at all like me, to just toss stuff. You don't need EVERYTHING, I know you think you are going to need it, but you probably wont.
I learned from the 43 folders a good trick. To create a folder on your desk top and mark it delete as of such date (one week from the day you create it). Put everything on your desktop in it! What you haven't used my next week, you should probably toss, or file appropriately.
I forced me to go through my whole documents folder, pics, music, movies, everything. I trashed a lot of stuff. Now I am set up, and ready to run.
It may sound stupid, but it helps to me know little things like that are done. In my mind I know and want to do things like this, but on one hand it feels like a "waste of time" to just organize. Really though, it helps me feel a little relaxed in the back of my mind.
Crazy, but I am becoming one of them...
The office is next.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
A Week in review
I love the 4th of July, but I have to say I like it better closer to a weekend!
Super Saturday was great today, and I think we connected with a couple new families!
I got to have dinner with my friend Herbert Cooper from the the Peoples Church in OKC on Monday along with his family. Great time.
I am super excited about James right now. Tomorrow is chapter 4 and next week chapter 5. I have had several people confirm they are reading right along with me as they stud during the week! Awesome
We got some great family time in this week. I am trying to make sure my family get the best portion of Josh, not just the leftovers.
I started my marathon training this week! Woohoo! I have been sweating it out, and for a guy who hasnt run much in the past years I am up to 6 miles without stopping.
My goal is to be at 10 before next Friday!
I made some phone calls today and was able to connect with some people who have been coming and have had some questions. I love being able to connect with people if only for a few minutes over the phone!
Sundays are so busy, and it is nice to have a couple minutes without being rushed!
Take some time to build some community with some of those from the church this week! Invite someone to your home for supper or just some coffee! Its great!
By the way the link to Dara's blog is fixed from the last post, you can see my sister's wedding now!
Super Saturday was great today, and I think we connected with a couple new families!
I got to have dinner with my friend Herbert Cooper from the the Peoples Church in OKC on Monday along with his family. Great time.
I am super excited about James right now. Tomorrow is chapter 4 and next week chapter 5. I have had several people confirm they are reading right along with me as they stud during the week! Awesome
We got some great family time in this week. I am trying to make sure my family get the best portion of Josh, not just the leftovers.
I started my marathon training this week! Woohoo! I have been sweating it out, and for a guy who hasnt run much in the past years I am up to 6 miles without stopping.
My goal is to be at 10 before next Friday!
I made some phone calls today and was able to connect with some people who have been coming and have had some questions. I love being able to connect with people if only for a few minutes over the phone!
Sundays are so busy, and it is nice to have a couple minutes without being rushed!
Take some time to build some community with some of those from the church this week! Invite someone to your home for supper or just some coffee! Its great!
By the way the link to Dara's blog is fixed from the last post, you can see my sister's wedding now!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Weekend Update
Wow, what a weekend.
We went to my sisters wedding this weekend in STL. It was great to be a part of her marriage! We jammed home after the Saturday afternoon wedding to be home for service this weekend!
check out Dara's Blog to see some pics!
We had 123 in service at least 2 give their heart to Jesus.
Also a new family has committed to being a part of JCFC. Awesome.
I had a phone conversation with a family that is going to try to be here Sunday. They do attend another church, but it is too far for them to get their neighbors to come with them. The want to be able to impact their neighborhood. SO they are looking for something closer!
What a servants heart. They want to do what God is leading them to do!
Had an awesome lunch today with a great guy in the church who is moving forward with his decision to follow Christ and is ready to be baptized!
We are having a Baptism and Bar-B-Q in September to accommodate everyone's schedule!
At this point we have 12 people ready to be baptized! It is going to be awesome.
If you havent been baptized since you have believed, now is the time. The New Testament teaches that baptism happens after you give your life to Jesus. It is an awesome step to show everyone you have made a commitment to Jesus!
Join us in Baptism!
We went to my sisters wedding this weekend in STL. It was great to be a part of her marriage! We jammed home after the Saturday afternoon wedding to be home for service this weekend!
check out Dara's Blog to see some pics!
We had 123 in service at least 2 give their heart to Jesus.
Also a new family has committed to being a part of JCFC. Awesome.
I had a phone conversation with a family that is going to try to be here Sunday. They do attend another church, but it is too far for them to get their neighbors to come with them. The want to be able to impact their neighborhood. SO they are looking for something closer!
What a servants heart. They want to do what God is leading them to do!
Had an awesome lunch today with a great guy in the church who is moving forward with his decision to follow Christ and is ready to be baptized!
We are having a Baptism and Bar-B-Q in September to accommodate everyone's schedule!
At this point we have 12 people ready to be baptized! It is going to be awesome.
If you havent been baptized since you have believed, now is the time. The New Testament teaches that baptism happens after you give your life to Jesus. It is an awesome step to show everyone you have made a commitment to Jesus!
Join us in Baptism!
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