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Mother Mary Come To Me

2010-09-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

When It comes to Mary we seem to have some major swings in our approach to her. Either we worship her as a mini god or we totally disregard and ignore her. Jesus did neither of these. He loved her & cared for her & made sure she was cared for when he left. He never worshiped her, but only gave praise and prayed to his father in heaven. So, lets do the same. Lets honor her as a mother (as we should honor our own) and lets learn from her.

Why did God choose Mary? Well…because He’s God and He can do anything He wants. Was there anything more about her that the Lord looked at and said, this person will be the vessel for bearing and caring for my son on his journey to earth. She was a teenager who had little to no experience in the mothering department. Her credentials were un impressive at best by the worlds standards. But she had something that caught God’s eye, the thing that I believe God saw in some one years before here, Abraham.

God comes to Abraham and asks him to take him at his word and move away from everything he knew (he also asked him to do some other crazy stuff that is to painful to talk about right now.) And what did Abraham say, YES. What did Mary say, YES. She was willing to not just believe God, but to walk her belief out to faith, like Abraham. This is what the Lord saw. A willingness. A Yes. Faith. A willingness to not just believe He was going to do what He promised, but to actually walk out the promise with Him.

Faith is not being sure of what’s over the mountain and being ok with it. It’s having no clue what rest over the mountain, but knowing who told you to go and being ok with whatever awaits you because you know the one who told you has only good for you.

Mary didn’t earn a part in God’s story, He invited her in…as He does with you & I. The story isn’t about Mary’s faith but in fact is, and always is, about Gods faithfulness. That He will accomplish what He sets out to do.

They were not the star of the story…Mary, Elisabeth or John….It was about Jesus.

Mary would carry Him, Elisabeth delighted in Him, John prepared hearts for Him. We now carry these things out in our lives.

Were not called to be the story, but to be a part of His…by carrying Him into the world. By delighting in him and preparing hearts to receive His Spirit. Its not about your disqualifications, but his love & blood that makes you qualified to be a part.

The story isn’t pretty, but it is beautiful. Messy but lovely beyond measure.

- Jerrod

What are you doing this summer?

2010-05-25T23:01:00.000-07:00

Summertime is here: it is a time for many of us to slow down. Many are done with school, going on vacation and just flat out ready for a breather. If you are like me life changes big time- my kids don't have school, therefore if they are not entertained or kept occupied they break things, each other, or they simply drive me to a place of near insanity. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids and I love spending time with them, but if my parenting goes on a vacation its not good for anyone in the family. So I am having to look at this summer with purpose. Daddy Day Camp is now in full session and I am determined not to let our kids fall victim to jut another lazy summer of getting on each others nerves.

Tonight I preached a message from John Chapter 5 on not allowing ourselves to fall victim to letting our spiritual life go on vacation. Life has a way of lulling us into a place of familiarity that we aren't willing (or able) to leave regardless of how much we want to. So the question is: What are you doing this summer. Are you looking forward to checking out for a few months, are ready to jump on board what God is doing all around you and allow yourself to be used by God to make this a summer like you never have experienced.

I am ready, are you? Buckle up, its going to be a wild, but worthwhile ride!!!

Psalms 62

2010-05-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Found this to be incredibly uplifting in worship today

New Venture

2010-04-20T11:24:00.001-07:00

This next week will be my last week as one of the Pastors at Crossroads. It is truly a bittersweet time. I am thankful for the opportunity that I was given to plant Elevate as well as to serve with a great team of people sharing the Love of Jesus with this community, I will miss meeting with them on a weekly basis. The excitement of the new venture however is revolutionizing my life and my trust in God.

A few people have asked what this means to Elevate, the answer is simple- Elevate will continue to operate as normal and I will still continue to lead our amazing leadership team to reach out to the young adult college generation of this community. There is going to arise the need for people to step up and start taking ownership of Elevate and what happens each week.

The reason I am leaving my position at Crossroads is to Plant a new Church in Exeter called Orange Valley Church. I look forward to sharing much more in future of post of how I arrived at this point in life, to take this bold (possibly crazy) step of faith to leave the security of something safe to the challenging unknown.

I am looking forward to what God has in store for me, I am a firm believer that he is the one who orders our steps and I am blown away where he has led and how he has provided this far. We have the responsibility of preparing and planning but ultimately we need to be listening to his voice and receive our direction from the Holy Spirit.

Look forward to sharing much in the near future. have an amazing day.

Lots of Change, and some things the same...

2010-04-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard yet, its official. I (along with others) am going to be planting a Church in the Exeter area called Orange Valley Church (orangevalleychurch.com)

This has been a interesting journey which begin to progress rather quickly as it became apparent that this was where I believe God to be leading me. The great thing is I'm not alone! One of my best friends in the world Alex Reeder is going to be joining me, as well as Eric McIntosh will serve as the Worship Arts Pastor (myspace.com/viraavenue.com).
Two other friends Kevin Starling and Adam Bravinder have also committed to developing the leadership structure for this amazing new venture.

Couple of things I want to make sure an get out there:

1. From the beginning this was done in with full disclosure to Crossroads Community Church where I have been on staff for the last 4 years. I amd my family have been blessed by this church and will always have a special place in my heart. I or Alex are not leaving because of anything that was are wasn't being done- there is no issue, simply pursuing what God has placed before us. We are very thankful for and leave in good standing with Crossroads and will continue to Pray for and encourage them in their work in Visalia as we launch out in Exeter.

2. Elevate will continue as normal. The vision for Elevate began in my heart years before we opened. I will continue to lead the elevate team, and I am just as excited about the future of it as I was when we began four years ago.

Excited about what God has in store looking forward to amazing things...

The Missional Church

2010-04-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon this video- sums up what the missional church is: Love it!!!

EASTER

2010-04-03T10:18:00.001-07:00

Good Friday 2009 - Ending from buckheadchurch on Vimeo.

Living by Faith not Fear

2010-03-25T17:50:00.001-07:00

For the past year I have been learning a lot from the life of David, I have also be teaching a lot and talking a lot about moving from living out of fear to living in faith. Well its easy to say you want to live that way, and easy to say when you aren't facing major life changing decisions. So the time has come to learn to walk in faith and you know what it kind of stinks... its not comfortable, there aren't any guarantees, people misunderstand you, you doubt yourself, and friends leave you... but what I have to keep telling myself (because my emotions, and sometimes logic are screaming something else) that I have to pursue what God has placed in front of me regardless of the odds against. He hasn't called me to comfort, he has called me to life obedience and continual life transformation.

I read an Article Blog Post from Perry Noble today that Challenged me to be a Leader like David, not Saul...

Ten Signs A Leader Is “Losing It!” March 25, 2010

I’ve been reading through the OT lately and have been challenged by the downward leadership spiral that Saul went on…here are TEN signs from his life that point to a leader “losing it.”

#1 – The ministry he leads moves from being about the name of God to the name of the leader. (Compare I Samuel 14:35 with I Samuel 15:12!)

#2 – He gets impatient with the process that God is taking him through and thereby tries to “make something happen” rather than waiting on God’s timing. (I Samuel 15:5-10)

#3 – He makes self centered leadership decisions that slow down the people he works with rather than empowering them. (I Samuel 15:24–notice the references to himself in this verse.)

#4 – He refuses to completely obey God because it places him in uncomfortable situation. (I Samuel 15:1-9)

#5 – He allows fear of man to trump his fear of God. (I Samuel 15:24)

#6 – He refuses to take action and deal with the obvious issue in front of him…and if anyone attempts to do so he is quick to tell them they cannot! (I Samuel 17:32-33)

#7 – He cannot celebrate the success of others. (I Samuel 18:8-9)

#8 – He tries to discredit/destroy anyone or anything that looks like it is successful apart from him–Saul actually became more obsessed with destroying David than he did leading the kingdom! (I Samuel 18:10-11)

#9 – He resorts to trying to see the spectacular apart from the presence of God. (I Samuel 28)

#10 – He refuses to deal with the fact that his jealousy, insecurity, disobedience and self reliance is not only going to cost him…but cost others as well! (I Samuel 31:1-3)

(end article)

Love this Article, #5 is the one that seems to kick my tail quite often. Its kind funny (not really) that God is putting me through areas of my life, or allowing me to go through things that cause me to actually live this and not just keep it around like a nice little nugget of truth.

Alright time to step away from the keyboard, where it is easy, and to go out in the world and actually let it be a part of who I am and how I live.

Love what my good Friend Jon Serrins is doing

2010-03-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

check out his project buyasongchangetheworld.com
Love it when people just dont talk about things but match their passions and giftings up with their calling and just do something. Jon is one of those people. Looking forward to what God is gonna do through a great guy with a awesome passion.

Dreaming

2010-03-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

Dreaming.

I am a dreamer, sometimes I catch myself just drifting off thinking about what could be or what could've been. I also am a pretty crazy dreamer at night, the kind with talking and walking involved- freaked my wife out a lot in our early days of marriage. Now she just gently grabs me and talks me out of my sleep-drunk stupors.

The sad thing is that I have allowed myself to get to busy and to practical to dream a much these days. I am reminded that much of the things that have been memorable and effective in life adn ministry have come through dreaming up some things.

I just finished a little dream-storming session with my buddy Jerrod and out of this has come a idea that I believe is going to revolutionize our ministry and community as well.

The wheels are already being put in motion and we are now putting feet to a dream that started with a goofy idea. Can't wait to share more soon, but gonna get some more ducks in a row before we let the cat out of the bag.

its gonna be awesome... its Crazy, its not normal, Logic would probably advise against it, and we have no Model to follow- Perfect!!!

Got a note from my Pastor this week that was extremely encouraging it said "If God has given you a dream, the worst thing you can do is nothing." Well said. Now its time to start running with this dream and putting some structure to this crazy dream- hopefully without taking away the possibility of more dreaming.

A Call to Action

2010-02-26T06:57:00.000-08:00

Inspired by A Post from Perry Noble- Pastor of Newspring, (perrynoble.com)

A Call To Action February 26, 2010

Deuteronomy 1:7-8 jumped out at me the other morning…as I had this thought…

God has NEVER led anyone to the point of indecision…it’s NOT that we don’t know what to do most of the time…but rather we know EXACTLY what to do, but in order to obey it will cause us to break out of our comfortable routine and actually put forth some effort.

God had promised the Israelites the land they were going into…He had spent years preparing them for the takeover…but when it came time to make things happen He didn’t tell them “Sit here while I go do it all,” but rather, “Break camp and advance…”

Translation…

“Break camp…” – Get out of your place of comfort.

“Advance” – In other words…DON’T try to keep things the way they are…there are MUCH better things in store.

I love how God doesn’t call His followers to be passive…to sit back and do nothing. We serve a living and active God…which means if we seek to imitate Him then the same should be said of us.

So…any decision that you’ve been putting off that you KNOW He’s clearly spoken about?

“Break camp and advance…”

pics of my boys

2010-02-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

Worship- Soapbox rant

2010-02-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

From Consumer to Consumed from Dan Stevers on Vimeo.

I get so frustrated sometimes with people's concept of worship (with myself mostly.) We live in a time where "Worship" is exploding, its everywhere- Heck, even Skillet and Kutless gave up Metal for an album or two to get in on the action . ( It may even have its own award at the Dove awards.) It is generally defined by what kind of music we like and what personality moves our emotions the most. In leading a worship gathering I cant tell you how many times I have heard people say that they hate it when we break up "worship" to have people greet each other. If you think about the logic on that it's pretty goofy- basically, the concept is- this time of music is when I connect with God and when you have me connect with other people if ruins my worship mojo. I know that this is a pretty broad stroke but it does show the consumer mentality that is running rampant within the body of Christ. I love what Matt Redman's church did when they realized that people were worshiping the "worship" and the leader's style- they cleared the stage and got into the word until they felt that they could use music as ONE of the forms of worship, and could worship with a genuine heart in all area's of life- not only when the music was just right.

I believe that the worship God enjoys the most is not when our emotions are being cajoled and our senses are being tickled, but when in the difficult and mundane times of life we call "You are God, and I will worship you" (without a guy in skinny jeans and a scarf with a guitar is crooning in front of us.)

OK so this may be a little harsh, (hope you catch the sarcasm and satire,) but I want to challenge myself, and anyone else who is willing, to begin to look for awkward moments (ADD moment- visualizing the most interesting man in the world, having an awkward moment, just to see what it feels like) to worship God. Can you imagine how someone would react if they just finishing cussing you out and you fell on your knees and started shouting praises to God, or the people who observed it. Or when you are enjoying a great burger at In & Out you start sharing with your friends how great God is. God's heart would be extremely full and proud of his most prized possession- you!

I think we all would agree that Worship is not about us, but the question is- do we just say that because we are supposed to, or do we live it?

(Can I possibly use any more parentheses? even got a few two finger quotations in.)

Jerrod Blogged.

2010-02-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

Being I have allowed myself to get to busy to write, Jerrod is picking up the slack for me. Here is the link to his post:

http://jerrodturner.blogspot.com/2010/02/just-stay-in-tower-please.html

Elevate Guys - Time to man up

2010-02-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Alright Guys, time to jump in a group and be a man of integrity and second chances.

Choose a time that fits for you. See you soon.

Monday 7pm- Jordan Dudley 936-2039

Sunday Afternoon 4pm- Phillip Barnes 334-7786

Sunday Afternoon in Tulare- Andy Tiner 805-7913 (in Tulare)

Monday- 7pm Jordan Dudley 936-2039

Tuesday Nights- 8:30 PM- Glenn Larson 730-3442 (After Elevate)

Wednesday Nights 6:30 Joel Hedlund 731-2975

Thursday 1:00 PM Michael Burnias 309-2930

Friday 10 AM- Andrew Short 679-3046

Elevate Reading Challenge

2010-01-29T11:03:00.000-08:00

Hope the reading is going well for those who are taking the challenge. Here is an Blog Entry form Jerrod. Feel free to send in your writings. Elevate 30 day challenge blog will be up shortly.

Day One - John 1

John the Baptist got IT. A crazy wild man of the desert, who may have looked a lot like a televangelist does to us these days. Big hair, loud booming voice, and making some monstrous claims to anyone who would listen and offending a lot of people. John chapter 1 verse 20 captures John’s heart, “He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Christ.” He didn’t have a savior complex. He wasn’t trying to be something he wasn’t. He was aware of who he was because he was aware of who Christ was.
21 They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”
He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?”
He answered, “No.”

22 Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’ ”

People wanted to know who this wild man was not because he was a joke or not a big deal, but because he was making waves in the pool and people were listening…and starting to believe.

When was the last time someone mistook you for a prophet or a reincarnated man or woman from the ancient days? When we live with an awareness of the true identity of Christ then we will live in an awareness of our true identity. We aren’t the star of the show, this epic story of life isn’t about us, it started long before we did and it will last longer then our minds can even imagine. Our job then becomes to be “the voice of one calling” and “making straight the way for the Lord”. The world is not rolling out the red carpet for our return…all creation will roll it our for Him. We’ve been called to get an early jump start on this. Start calling and start making straight paths. Don’t stand in the spotlight but turn it towards the one who deserves it.

The Word of God- Elevate Leadership Team

2010-01-27T15:15:00.002-08:00

the Bible from Joel Hedlund on Vimeo.

Join us for the 30 day Challenge- Click Here
The gospels in 30 days.

2010-01-27T15:15:00.001-08:00

the Bible from Joel Hedlund on Vimeo.

2010-01-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

Great Article from John Acuff at Stuff Christians like

http://tinyurl.com/yzxynor

My thoughts on this article:

Right on the Money. I also think sometimes as Christians we are so results based we don't care about the Journey- we just want to get to where we think we should be spiritually, relationally, occupationally, etc.
I truly think that God values the journey every bit as much if not more than the result- we should too.

The Devestation in Haiti and The Glory of God.

2010-01-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

Its been interesting to see the response to the tragedy in Haiti. From the pouring out of compassion and kindness of people to the controversy surrounding comments made by Pat Robertson. I will admit I spent a some time worrying about distancing myself from Pat Robertson's and clenching my teeth in anger because because I don't believe his views truly represent God's views on this tragedy. Donald Miller wrote an article that really helped and encouraged my thoughts on this particular subject.

Thinking through this and wondering why such devastation seems to happen in area's that are already ravaged by poverty, got me asking the every familiar question "Why, God?" I know God is sovereign and that nothing happens without his knowledge and permission, but it often becomes difficult to manage that with the God who would sacrifice his own Son on our behalf. We can do what Pat did and quickly blame it on a vengeful God who is punishing people for the sins of their ancestors or we can look to the Bible.

John Chapter 9 helps bring some resolution to my heart.

1. As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth.2 "Rabbi," his disciples asked him, "why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents' sins?"
3 "It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins," Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.5 But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world."

The disciples response was like Robertson's, basically- who should we blame? Jesus' response was that this happened so that the Glory of God would be revealed.

I believe in a God who is bigger than tragedy, who is so big in fact that he can receive glory out of every situation regardless the magnitude. We are here on this earth for one reason alone, for the glory of God. I look forward to Christ receiving incredible amounts of glory by the response of his people. A window has been opened for the followers of Christ to proclaim who he is, not by how smart we are or how we explain things, but rather by acting as he would act.

Matthew 25:35-36 (New International Version)³⁵For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

Dance Machine

2010-01-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

This is my 3 year old Jackson dancing at Church. He is constantly teaching me about what being a genuine follower of Jesus looks like. I am working on slowing down and enjoying life more and caring less about what people think about me and gaining their praise. This is one of those moments. I think this is part of what Jesus was talking about when he said having a faith like a child. Jackson didn't care that there were 1200 people around, he just wanted to dance. I think there are a lot of expectations (most of them false) placed on people on what being a "Christian Includes." These expectations often lead us into a mundane relationship with Jesus based on obligation rather than a free relationship that makes us want to dance. Last night my family were all in the living room and a graet song came on TV, my response was to scream out "family dance party" we danced and laughed and made a memory I will have for the rest of my life. Do yourself a favor and take some time to dance today.

Things I learned while taking a Social Networking Sabbatical

2010-01-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

In early December, I decided to take a challenge and take a break from social networking (i.e. Twitter, facebook and blogging) I don’t think I was necessarily an addict (first sign is denial…) but I felt I needed to take a break and focus on some other areas of my life that needed attention, specifically in the relational area. Here are a few things I learned during this break.

1. The importance of replacement.
-If you intentional stop doing something, if you don’t replace it with something better, that void will be filled. If it is not intentionally replaced with something worthwhile, things of not so great value slide in very quickly. Early on I was amazed at how quickly the social networking time was replaced with Sportcenter, mindless channel surfing, and funny youtube video’s. Not bad stuff, but not exactly character shaping either.
2. The power of Social Networking.
-Although I realize the World Wide Web survived just fine without my presence I was surprised and encouraged by how many people commented on missing me. Other than just feeling stroked by a pat on the back (we’re all above that… right?), I am challenged to use this powerful tool to make an impact for the kingdom of God. Blogging is a powerful opportunity to put what you are learning into writing. This often makes it more real, practical, and best of all applicable.
3. The importance of intentional relationships.
-I am excited about using the www tool, but it was refreshing to seek people out to sit down and have some solid face to face time to connect, rather than the facebook “drive by’s.” Don’t let technological networking take the place of meaningful relationships. There’s nothing like looking in the eyes of a person when you tell them how valuable they are to you- when’s the last time you did that?
4. Power of God’s Word
-That should be a “Duh” statement for a pastor right? The truth is a lot of times pastors and people in leadership can begin to think that it is about themselves (OK, sometimes I think its about me! I won’t deflect!) Honestly, I have nothing to offer except that which Jesus chooses to release in me and through me. We find out who he is through his word, and we get more to share the more we are around him. One of my main purposes for taking this break was to get deeper in his word. Wish I could say I did better, but the extra time I did devote was extremely valuable. I am going to make sure and begin setting aside a daily time that cannot be used on preparing stuff for other people, but rather allowing Gods word to seep deep in my life.
5. My impact on my Family
-Once again not earth shattering news here, but taking a little extra time to be intentional creates huge life change, especially in my young boys. Taking the great and tough moments in life and using them to teach is something I am beginning to get a new perspective on. My Family is and will always be my primary ministry, I am looking forward to what God has in store through them, and that is not going to come by posting something nice about them on facebook.

Taking a break from Technology

2009-12-08T11:19:00.000-08:00

I am officially taking a break from technology for the rest of 2009. I have become a little to dependent (possibly addicted) to technology and social networking so I am gonna take a break. Gonna spend more time in the word, more time with family, and hopefully more time in prayer.

Technology is a great tool in sharing the goodness of God and message of a transformed life, however, it can become one of the greatest time robbers and I am guilty.

Looking forward to a great Christmas season and seeing what God has in store as I draw close to him.

Merry Christmas everyone and happy new year!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T09:41:00.001-08:00

I Love Honesty

2009-11-21T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm Trying to learn to tell it like it is. (in love of course) I think I am gonna go to this guy for lessons.

Information and Technology Explosion

2009-11-19T07:06:00.000-08:00

Amazing facts!!! Makes me wonder how the followers of Christ are doing with Advancing the greatest information ever: the message of Hope and Forgiveness found in Christ.

Great time to be alive, great time to be bold with what we are empowered to share.

Uniqueness of your Voice

2009-11-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

Jesus says in John 10:10 "my sheep hear my voice." His voice is what guides us in to all truth. Last week in Elevate we talked about the importance of the Word of Truth and the Word of the Gospel.

Jesus also told his disciples that everything they saw him do they would do even greater things, because the Word that spoke the Universe into being is being instilled in all of us.

Challenge to think about: What are your words saying to others about the good news: the Gospel?

Just read a great blog entry from Mark Batterson, one of my favorite authors and speakers:

Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Unique Voiceprint

There never has been and never will be anyone like you. But that isn't a testament to you. It's a testament to the God who created you absolutely unique.

All of creation is singing a worship chorus to God. And it's not just the meadow lark with its 300 notes or the nightingale finch with its 24 songs. According to the German physicist and pianist, Arnold Summerfield, a hydrogen atom emits 100 frequencies which makes it more complex musically than a grand piano which emits 88 frequencies.

For what its worth, Pythagoras said: "A stone is frozen music." Very interesting in light of what Jesus said: "If you remain silent the stones will cry out."

My point? All of creation is singing a unique song to the Creator. And you are part of that universal chorus. No one can worship God FOR you or LIKE you. God has given you a unique voiceprint. There are millions of people praying and worshiping God in every language all the time. But your voiceprint is unique. Like a parent who knows His child's unique cry or scream or laugh, God knows your voice. He hears your voice. The Heavenly Father loves your voice.

Man Cold

2009-11-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

Sad thing is this is how a lot of Men are in the Church. We have abandoned our posts and have left the ladies lead alone. Studies show that Women make up 60% of the church despite men having over 95% staff positions in them, and the 40% are mostly sideline observers when it comes to cultivating the younger generation.
This is not a gender equality issue, God created us both equal in his site, however he did instruct the men to lead and to care for the women the same we he did the church (he gave his life!) Time to start manning up fella's. Thanks to all the great women women who continue so faithful and have are still carrying most of the weight, help is on the way!

Religion and Dating

2009-11-16T10:19:00.000-08:00

being a leader of a primarily single group I found this article on religion, attraction and sexuality to be extremely interesting:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20091116/sc_livescience/romanticrivalriesstirreligiousfeelings

I am not so naive to think that young people come to Elevate merely because of the great music or the teaching. In fact I know and have heard of many who are coming because they have hopes of connecting with a significant other. I personally don't think that that is necessarily a bad thing. There are lots of meat market venues around mostly centered around alcohol consumption to lower inhibitions and heighten confidence but these mostly lead to meaningless (unless you throw in guilt and shame) hookups. I love the fact that we have an opportunity that provides an opportunity to for people to develop community with people of the same age and that there might possibly be some romantic connections that come to fruition.

The danger is when there is no standards and accountability, and people allow their natural inclinations to guide them rather than God's leading in their life. That is why it is so important for us to address the area of integrity. My favorite definition of integrity is: who you are when no one is looking. If we are seeking to build and train up Godly young men and women who value integrity, then I think this can be a great place for people to find dating relationships- as long as that becomes secondary to living a life above reproach.

I am looking forward to this new season we are in of challenging people to embrace real relationships and accountability that promote integrity. These test can say whatever they want about why or why not people are religious or why they attend church, but each and every person has a decision to make: am I gonna do thing my way or Gods way. Am I going to pursue instant gratification or grow in character and see what kind of person that attracts and let God bring that perfect person into our lives.

The place I dream of Elevate becoming, is a place where the Men walk in integrity and look to protect the girls before they think of their attractiveness or date-ability.
A place where women know who they are in Christ and don't need a man to validate them or a dating relationship to feel loved. A place where guys and girls can buidl friendships without thinking of "what is their real intentions" this is the kind of place where real dynamic relationship can flourish and where some of the best marriages for the new generation can begin.

Deadly Viper- Who's up for integrity???

2009-11-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

Deadly Viper Character Assassins Promo Video from organic visual on Vimeo.

Handling Tough Situations (With Confidence and Trust)

2009-11-10T10:21:00.001-08:00

It seems the theme of the last year and more specifically at this very time- the theme seems to be being stuck in sticky situations where clear wisdom is absolute necessary. I have found that I am am good at diagnosing problems but when it actually comes to the steps of a solution I am not so great. So I diagnosed my problem: 1. I live a lot of life based on fear ("what bad thing will happen if a no or don't do this") and 2. I really don't trust God.

Just recently I encountered a few of these sticky situations, and tried to look at them from a new angle. Instead of worrying about the circumstances and how I will come off looking after the dust settles- I am beginning to just say "What is the right thing to do. Period." and then to begin there will all decisions and conversation. The second thing I am doing is starting to generally trust God, when I pray, instead of praying out a anxiety and pleading to be removed from the situation, I am beginning to thank God for this opportunity to grow, and trust that regardless of the outcome- his will will prevail and realizing any outcome that I contrive cannot even compare with his amzing plan.

The Crazy thing is that it is working. I am less stressed, I have clearer vision, and the outcomes are blowing me away. This "God is in control" stuff really works when I listen, trust, and act out of confidence in who he is and what he wants to do.

The Swine Flu

2009-11-09T06:56:00.000-08:00

Every feel like the Pig, or go along with a group of Animals.
Lord keep us healthy and let us love the sick!!!

Francis Chans New Book

2009-10-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Francis Chan has a new book out, it is third on my "to read" list after I finish A million Miles in a Thousand years by Donald Miller and Deadly Viper: Kung Fu guide to survival by Mike Foster and Jud Wilhite. Going to start focusing on Character development in my own life and the community life of Elevate. Its gonna be awesome, painful but awesome.

2009-10-17T08:02:00.001-07:00

Wow!!! Good stuff from Donald Miller

2009-10-02T12:44:00.000-07:00

Donald Miller is one of my favorite authors, (getting his new book today "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years.")
This video excerpt of one of his messages reminds me I am on a long journey when it comes to my spiritual life. I beat myself up a lot because I don't get as far as I would like in my Journey with Christ. The content of the video sends that sentiment back to where it came from...

Abandonement of Self

2009-09-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Lately in my spiritual journey I have had the challenge of abandonment of self pop up quit a bit, to the point (as dumb as I may be) that I think God is trying to tell me something. I really do have a desire to follow Christ and see Him very evident in my life and around me, but it is so easy to get caught up in other things such as business, laziness, entertainment, work, family, struggles, discouragements... the list goes on. What it comes down to for me most of the time is my unwillingness to let go of control, or to let go of myself completely.

Today I read Oswald Chambers' my utmost for his highest. There it was again:

THE "GO" OF UNCONDITIONAL IDENTIFICATION

"One thing thou lackest: . . come, take up the cross, and follow Me." Mark 10:21

The rich young ruler had the master passion to be perfect. When he saw Jesus Christ, he wanted to be like Him. Our Lord never puts personal holiness to the fore when He calls a disciple; He puts absolute annihilation of my right to myself and identification with Himself - a relationship with Himself in which there is no other relationship. Luke 14:26 has nothing to do with salvation or sanctification, but with unconditional identification with Jesus Christ. Very few of us know the absolute "go" of abandonment to Jesus.

"Then Jesus beholding him loved him." The look of Jesus will mean a heart broken for ever from allegiance to any other person or thing. Has Jesus ever looked at you? The look of Jesus transforms and transfixes. Where you are "soft" with God is where the Lord has looked at you. If you are hard and vindictive, insistent on your own way, certain that the other person is more likely to be in the wrong than you are, it is an indication that there are whole tracts of your nature that have never been transformed by His gaze.

"One thing thou lackest . . ." The only "good thing" from Jesus Christ's point of view is union with Himself and nothing in between.

"Sell whatsoever thou hast . ." I must reduce myself until I am a mere conscious man, I must fundamentally renounce possessions of all kinds, not to save my soul (only one thing saves a man - absolute reliance upon Jesus Christ) - but in order to follow Jesus. "Come, and follow Me." And the road is the way He went.

I want to experience that look from Jesus to the point that nothing else matters. His gaze says I love you enough to demand from you that all these things that keep you from me are completely obliterated and gone. That's not legalism! That is love!!! I do know that God is calling me to reckless and complete abandonment of self, my hopes and prayers that my mind, will and strength will remember his look of love and transformation rather than looking for areas of comfort and apathy.

Inspired by LosWit today

2009-09-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

Was inspired by Carlos Whittaker today (ragamuffinsoul.com)

People Will Never Respect You Because Of What You’re ABOUT To Do

“My wife and I have thought about adopting for a while.”
“I’ve always wanted to write a book.”
“I think I might ask her out.”
“Yea, next time I go to a show I’ll sponsor a Compassion child.”
“You know, I’m gonna finally tell my boss to chill out and treat us with respect.”
“Dude! The church I’m planting is going to feed the homeless every Saturday morning.”
“That’s it. I’m seriously going to drop everything and become a photographer.”

These are just a few of the lines I remember from conversations I have been part of or overheard (yes, I’m a stalker) the past few weeks.
Dreams are fuel.
They fuel us to victory.
But most of the time they stay just that.
Dreams.
I lived most of my life “about” to do something.
Then one day Heather and I decided to stop living almost and start living all out.
Since that decision we have adopted our son Losiah, climbed the highest peak in North America, Jumped out of airplanes, been on a reality show, moved across the country, quit my job, signed a record deal, traveled to Uganda, co lived with 3 families, and so much more.
I honestly don’t share that to brag.
It might sound miserable to most of you.
We have had our share of suck.
If you read our blogs you know.
But we also realized that the American dream of white picket fences and a 9-5 isn’t our shtick.
And here is the harder truth.
It isn’t a lot of yours either.
You are living in the myth that stability = simply and safely existing.

Those statements up top usually end a few months later with financial, lack of time, fear, and man power excuses.
Here’s the truth.
There will NEVER be enough money, time, or help.
Heather and I spend at least one night a week looking at the checking account and crying then laughing then crying.
I could get a job at a church and play it safe.
That would not be a bad decision.
It would be a great decision.
It just would not be the RIGHT decision, right now.
Because right now God has called me to pour into the global church and when that season is over, it would be a blessing to work in the local church again.
Just not now.
And so we pray, fast, hustle, laugh, and cry.
And inside all of that, we live.

I’m willing to bet a lot of you are ready for an adventure.
So what is it?
What are you going to do this week to take that one step away from safety and towards calling?
Los

Jesus loves Me- A reminder we all need!!!

2009-09-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

Jesus Loves You from ProlifikFilms on Vimeo.

The Words we Say

2009-09-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been thinking about living intentionally. Much of what we (I) say, don't say, do, don't do, think, ignore, feel, reject, is based on reaction or trained response.

I am getting stirred to "Live on Purpose" again. Not wanting to do things just because that is what I am supposed to, or expected to do... but rather:

Because of Who Jesus is and what he has done in me and for me. I desire to become like Peter and John in the book of Acts when they are told to quit speaking the name of Jesus. Their Response: We cannot help help but do this! It became who they were and who they are. Are am sure they were reminded of Jesus' talk with them about this very situation in Matthew 10 ¹⁹But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, ²⁰for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

I was inspired by this poem about the words we say.

Typography from Ronnie Bruce on Vimeo.

Who's authority are you speaking from?...

DCB twitter will kill you

2009-09-11T15:44:00.001-07:00

Proofreading before hitting send.

2009-09-10T09:25:00.001-07:00

I am notorious for sending nonsensical texts and posts because I don't take the time to proofread what I have written in texts and post. I had a really embarrassing one that I can't repeat that came out entirely wrong because I left out one word. This is a good reminder to me in how I live my life. I serve an amazing Savior who left the glories of heaven and suffered unthinkable torture and death for me- the least I could do is to look at my life, how I'm living, acting, thinking, doing, talking, working etc. etc. in a way that honors the sacrifice he made for me and shows the life he gives. I am not talking about guilting myself to the point I become a legalist, but rather living intentionally a way that simply shows I care enough to analyze my life and see if I am making errors that would embarrass him, not out of guilt but out of passionate love for my savior.

Lord I want to be like David and ask "is there anything in my heart that would keep me from knowing God and making him known to people around me."

I proofread this and realize that it is not grammatically correct but gets my point across. have an a amazing day.

Today

2009-09-02T09:17:00.001-07:00

More dental work today. Not too excited about that. I am learning a lesson through this however; that being the importance of not leaving things undone or unattended to. I was seeing a dentist for the last 6 years who always said, "looks like I'm not going to make any money off of you today.". Turns out he should have been making money of of me. I go to a new dentist and guess what 6 different dental procedures necessary. I should have known something was wrong when my cleaning only lasted 4 minutes.
Anyway, I was thinking about my life, in all areas (spiritual, financial, relational, etc.) and I could apply the principle of proactive action and preemptive intentionality in all these areas. Proverbs is filled with wisdom on this. I am reminded today of my need to not let life play me, but to let Gods spirit and strength guide me to live above the norm and to not let things fester until they cause me problems.
Off to to the dentist I go.

Rock star

2009-08-30T15:45:00.001-07:00

Jackson getting ready for the show

2009-08-25T17:33:00.001-07:00

2009-08-20T22:34:00.001-07:00

2009-08-20T19:05:00.001-07:00

2009-08-19T16:38:00.001-07:00

Flood Church Ministry Model- love it

2009-08-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Flood Impact Model from FloodSanDiego on Vimeo.

Jonah washing my truck

2009-08-13T17:53:00.001-07:00

Suffering from God's perspective

2009-08-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

I hate to see people go through tough times. Especially people that I care about. This morning I read a excerpt from My utmost for His highest by Oswald chambers that gave me a new perspective:

THE SACRAMENT OF THE SAINT

"Let them that suffer according to the will of God, commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well-doing." 1 Peter 4:19

To choose to suffer means that there is something wrong; to choose God's Will even if it means suffering is a very different thing. No healthy saint ever chooses suffering; he chooses God's will, as Jesus did, whether it means suffering or not. No saint dare interfere with the discipline of suffering in another saint.

The saint who satisfies the heart of Jesus will make other saints strong and mature for God. The people who do us good are never those who sympathize with us, they always hinder, because sympathy enervates. No one understands a saint but the saint who is nearest to the Saviour. If we accept the sympathy of a saint, the reflex feeling is - Well, God is dealing hardly with me. That is why Jesus said self-pity was of the devil (see Matt. 16:23). Be merciful to God's reputation. It is easy to blacken God's character because God never answers back, He never vindicates Himself. Beware of the thought that Jesus needed sympathy in His earthly life; He refused sympathy from man because He knew far too wisely that no one on earth understood what He was after. He took sympathy from His Father only, and from the angels in heaven. (Cf. Luke 15:10.)

Notice God's unutterable waste of saints, according to the judgment of the world. God plants His saints in the most useless places. We say - God intends me to be here because I am so useful. Jesus never estimated His life along the line of the greatest use. God puts His saints where they will glorify Him, and we are no judges at all of where that is.
(end excerpt)

When I see people who I care about going through tough times I want to fix it, and I spend great amount of mental energies trying to figure out how to help or make them feel better. This article helped me realize my job is not to fix them or the situation, my Job is to be obedient to whatever God wants me to do. If that is helping great, if it is to be an encouragement then that is my role. I need to not stress on what other people are going through (or for what I am) and simply seek to know what God's will is for me and to simply be obedient. There is a lot less stress involved in simply looking to God and being faithful, than trying to play Messiah to all the people in my life.

What is your Chrsitian Role when it comes to your profression

2009-07-25T10:32:00.001-07:00

I have been listening to a lot of Matt Chandler lately, love his world view and passion for the word of God. Here is an interesting clip on working with humanity organizations who are not "Christ centered"

What fills your soul?

2009-07-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

2009-07-14T15:32:00.001-07:00

Worship Intro from Nathan Hamblin on Vimeo.

2009-07-09T16:01:00.001-07:00

Jim's Bike Pump from Recycle Your Faith on Vimeo.

Dental work is not fun

2009-07-08T16:48:00.000-07:00

I hate dental work, one of my least favorite things in the world to do is to go to the dentist, whether for a simple cleaning or a root canal (OK that is much, much worse) It brings back a some of the simple principles in both my spiritual life and life in general. namely, If I don't take care of the smaller things, they can end up being very big things. Its also very important who you entrust the care of your teeth to. Although I'd like to think that I have proper teeth hygiene and do a adequate job, I need help. So in comes a dentist. NEWSFLASH!!! all dentists are not equal. Today I went to the dentist for some work. For the last 5 years I went to a dentist for cleaning. He was great! it never hurt and I was in and out in a flash. I recently changed dentists, and low and behold I have major issues that are going to require major work as well as some of the heavy stuff. It turns out the guy who taking care of my teeth for the last 5 years was only interested on getting paycheck and not so much my teeth. So here I am paying the consequences for enjoying the nice easy dentist who didn't hurt rather than one who would get in there and get rid of the junk.

Questions to ponder: Are there some small things lurking around in my life that need attention before they get huge? Do I only pursue easy comfortable options. And am I entrusting my spiritual life to the right person? Am I trusting myself? Who are the people who are influences in my life?

I am looking forward to getting this pain and suffering over quickly when it has to do with my teeth. I also want to make sure I don't end up with a lot of damaging things in my personal and spiritual life due to neglect and not so positive influences in my life.

Sometime corny illustrations can make a huge impact on our lives. Although I wont be using this a sermon illustration any time soon- I am going to heed some simple wisdom and take a closer look at my life and those I allow in it.

Guilt Trip

2009-07-06T14:09:00.001-07:00

I have this thing about putting myself on guilt trips for not doing the things I intended to do. This blog being one of those things. I have allowed myself to get busy with many things having to do with work, family church etc. I have committed to writing my thoughts and encouraging others along the way.

Today I am reminded by the words of Paul in Romans 7&8, when he talks about not doign the things he wants to do, and getting involved int he stuff he wanted to. His choices as we see in chapter 8 reminds us that we are all failures and the only way to truly experience life the way God desires is by depending on God's spirit and guidance not personal achievement.

So i am not going to beat myself with a whip of guilt and shame, rather I am looking forward to what the spirit is going to do, speak, change through me.

Look forward to great things to come.

Post of Collide Magazine

2009-06-30T14:46:00.001-07:00

iPhone 3.0 Software Is Here!

Posted by Scott McClellan on June 17th, 2009 at 1:32 pm

I just installed the 3.0 software and my iPhone and I couldn’t be more excited. There are a few new features that are pretty useful, such as Spotlight search for your whole phone. Unfortunately, my colleague Clint Miller and I did an existential search on my phone and the results were somewhat disappointing. See for yourself:

A picture, as they say, is worth a thousand words. Oh well. Maybe the iPhone 3G S will provide an end to mankind’s pursuit of the big questions in life. If you’re one of those clever folks who can supply captions for wacky photos, have at it.

Long Married life

2009-06-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

A study was done to see how people who were married 70+ years made it here is what they found. I think there are some spiritual values found in each of these. The truth is most of these things can be found in the book of proverbs and the teachings of Jesus from the gospels.

Here they are:

1. Have a Healthy Outlet

So many of the people in this study seemed to have all their ducks in a row. In their prime years in the 1950’s and 1960’s, they were making big money in powerful careers. They had beautiful families and lived in idyllic neighborhoods. Oddly enough, later in life, many of these fortunate people ended up breaking down mentally and physically. Why? If one didn’t have a healthy outlet for their fears, nerves, and struggles, it was only a matter of time before repressed demons erupted to the surface. The happiest people in this study had a healthy outlet. They were altruistic or had a rich sense of humor. They funneled their issues into sport, “their lust into courtship.”

It’s something important to consider. As the study proves, a human being can get away with sustaining daily nerves, fears, and doubts for a number of years. But ultimately, such a nervous nelly will crack. If you haven’t already, develop an outlet…find a sport, commit to helping others, lighten up, and laugh more often. A wise one said, "A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs, jolted by every pebble in the road."

2. Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

This study, as reported in Atlantic Magazine, was summed up beautifully by the journalist Joshua Shenk: “Herein lies the key to a good life--not rules to follow, nor problems to avoid-- but an engaged humility, an earnest acceptance of life’s pains and promises.”

In other words, one can only carry the burden of a big ego and lots of pride for so long before your proverbial knees will buckle. Don’t take life too seriously. We all have weaknesses. Do you really want to battle your dark side year after year? Or might it just be time to lay down your arms, take a deep breath, and enjoy life. It’s shorter than you think.

3. Happiness Must be Shared

The other night I was watching the movie adaptation of Into the Wild, the true story of Chris McCandless (see above photo which is a self-portrait found undeveloped in McCandless's camera after his death). Fed up with the rat race, McCandless graduated college in the early 1990's, left his worried parents in the dust, sold all his belongings, and ventured deep into the Alaskan wilderness. Before dying of starvation, he seemed to regret his isolationist ways and wrote these last words in his journal, “Happiness only real when shared.” According to the 72 year old study, McCandless was spot on. In the study, those who spent too much alone time ultimately struggled. The happiest subjects in the study were those who sustained meaningful, healthy relationships with friends and family. One can never give enough hugs, say enough "I love you's," and send enough "I miss you's."

I only have 60 more to catch up.

What do you Treasure?

2009-06-12T13:12:00.001-07:00

3 AM Meeting

2009-06-10T18:07:00.000-07:00

I have the privilege of being at what I consider the most beautiful place on earth. I love the ocean and I love beaches. What I really love is both of them on a warm night. This morning at about 3 am. I awoke and could not fall asleep, after tossing and turning for about a half an hour I got up slipped out without waking anyone and made my way down to the beach. The moon was shinning brightly and lit up the sky as well as illuminated everything around. I could see the palms swaying and a few little crabs scurrying around trying not to get swept back out to sea. I could also see islands in the distance that looked a glow from the moons light (does it sound like I am trying to hard to be a contemplative writer?..., yeah me too... OK is was freakin' beautiful and I was the only one around to enjoy it.
At first I tried to be very spiritual and figure out why God had me awake and what amazing word he was going to speak to me. After sitting down watching the waves, talking to God, waiting for a miraculous sign and for him to spell out his future plans to save the world through me (haha) It became vary aware of why he wanted me out there. He just wanted me to know that he loved me and was with me. I tend to be a person of extreme, I think to highly of myself-I look spend of lot of time in self-degradation; I am super excited about God-I could care less; I love being in the center of his will-I feel as though I am wasting his creation. So he gave me exactly what I needed. Not a tongue lashing of guilt and shame, and not the revelation of an amazing plan he wanted me to carry out- rather he simply let me know that in the most beautiful place on earth- He loved me and He was with me, and that as I return back to smog, problems, and life as normal- He will be with me and He loves me!!!!
That is the best thing I could have been given at my 3 AM meeting on the beach.

Encouragement for tough times

2009-06-09T21:18:00.000-07:00

Loouie Shares about going through tough times.

(Elevate will be going to the 2010 conference in Atalanta, Louie Leads 268generation for more info check out 268generation.com Make sure and sign up today.)

Word from Henri Nouwen

2009-06-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

“To pray, I think, does not mean to think about God in contrast to thinking about other things, or to spend time with God instead of spending time with other people. Rather, it means to think and live in the presence of God. As soon as we begin to divide our thoughts about God and thoughts about people and events, we remove God from our daily life and put him into a pious little niche where we can think pious thoughts and experience pious feelings. … Although it is important and even indispensable for the spiritual life to set apart time for God and God alone, prayer can only become unceasing prayer when all our thoughts —beautiful or ugly, high or low, proud or shameful, sorrowful or joyful —can be thought in the presence of God. … Thus, converting our unceasing thinking into unceasing prayer moves us from a self-centered monologue to a God-centered dialogue.” - Henri Nouwen

4 days

2009-06-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

having for days left to Vacation and having lots to do in that 4 days is an interesting collision of 2 major forces. My mind wants to check out and go on vacation, and the pressure that I have to finish some projects with deadlines makes for a crazy tornado. Have to work hard to get all of my creative juices and motivations going and let my mind know it has to hang on for 4 more days.

Phillipians 4:12 is what I am holding on to right now.

HAve a great day

2009-05-26T16:27:00.001-07:00

^{Hebrews Chapter 10 Challenged me today...

19} And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. ²⁰ By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. ²¹ And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, ²² let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.

²³ Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. ²⁴ Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. ²⁵ And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Dedication

2009-05-22T08:14:00.001-07:00

I am am challenged by dedication today. I tend to be a pretty "fly by the seat of my pants" kind of guy. I do think that I am missing out a lot on some of the things that come with patience and perseverance. I have a parental unit that has modeled and exhibited a dedication that I wih came through genetics, but rather has come through steady living and passionate pursuit of God's plan. The picture shown on this blog was what God me thinking about how much I value the character and attributes found in my parents. The poser was off for over a week in Arkansas, my dad made sure and found time for reading the word of God. I am looking forward to (I hope) beginning some of these same traits in my life.

The Wonder of Nquill

2009-05-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of Nyquill, the main reason is that it works for me. Yesterday, I was a mess. I was miserable and slept most of the day. I was still feeling miserable last night so I went to "old reliable"-Nyquill. I woke up this morning feeling great. Nyquill is great stuff, you can take it fall asleep and wake up feeling completely different.

Nyquil is something that you don't want to drink when things are going well- you take it when you are desperate for sime relief and desire for the things that are putting your body in submission to be gone.

I begin to realize that I treat Prayer the same as Nyquill. When things get out of my control and desperate I seem to find it easy to pray. When things are moving along smoothly I might say a quick hello, or give thanks for a meal- but if I am honest I really don't spend a good amount of time in prayer.

The thing is that prayer is nothing like Nyquill. It is more like the Air. We absolutly need it to function, and take it for granted most of the time.

So today I am saying thank you to Nyquill, and hopefully spending some time (out of Love not Guilt) to ackowledge the most importatnt relationship in my life.

Band getting ready to tear it up tonight

2009-05-05T17:25:00.001-07:00

Jerrod, Joel and Arnold

2009-05-04T12:57:00.001-07:00

NEW WEEK

2009-05-03T21:21:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to a new week. I actually enjoys Mondays, its almost like a fresh clean start.

I got the opportunity to go spend some time with a person who I consider a mentor. A person who's opinion and advice I have a great deal of respect for. I always feel refreshed when I get to see him and am encouraged by the wisdom he breathes into my life.

I would challenge everyone to strive to include a person in their life who will tell you the truth even when it hurts, who cheers for you, and rejoices in your victories but won't let you get a big head when you do well.

The thing that makes this mentor so influential in my life is his passion for God, His Word, and Truth. I am challenged to be a better Husband, Father, Son, Pastor and Friend when I am around him.

Have a great week and may God out people in your life to sharpen you and make you stronger.

Making the best of a bad week

2009-04-22T15:59:00.000-07:00

OK so I tend to be a little pessimistic some times, but this week has been unusually cruddy! Its in the high 90's and our Air conditioner went out- 2 months after the warranty was up of course. the brakes on my wife's car decides now was the time to go out. I get a phone call the other day that caught me off guard, where I came away feeling like I was a total moron because of some decisions I made that I though were correct, and then I found out just a few minutes later that one of the most productive ministries we have in cultivating community has been axed. Pretty uplifting stuff huh? There's more but I have to stop now before this becomes a habit.

Here is where it comes out: I am pretty much a "control freak" when it comes right down to it. Hidden behind this usually smiling face and apparent gentle spirit is a ugly selfish complex rearing its ugly head.

I don't like it when I am not in control of a situation, and if I cant fix it and make it right it drives me absolutely crazy.

I guess this rant is more of a confession, to myself and to God that I need help. He is the only one who can control this mess of a thing I call my life.

So once again, Lord I resign. And place you in Charge. No seriously.... I think.

"My God shall supply all your needs."

Once again, not teaching, just trying to pound some truth into this thick skull of mine.

"Be anxious for nothing, but everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God."

-Lord help me get rid of my anxious spirit and enjoy the time you have set aside for us...

Got to Baptize Jonah today! Awesome

2009-04-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

Life is Crazy!

2009-04-08T14:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't been writing much lately, this picture pretty much encapsulates how I have been feeling. I really need to get some order ack in my life. I need to need how to say the word "NO" to many things, so I can say "Yes" to the things of eternal significance. All that being said I am having the time of my life but probably am missing out on some things do to the frantic pace I have allowed myself to be ruled by.
I need to have a day at the beach and ready the book of ecclesiastes a few times through!!!

Have a blessed day.

2009-04-07T12:24:00.001-07:00

Friday morning rabbit trail on stuggling with death.

2009-04-03T11:43:00.001-07:00

I have had a little too many funerals lately. One is too many. What is really hard is too see what is left behind when when a person exits this life prematurely. The thing I have had a real hard time with is comprehending Gods timing. I know God is good and just, but my humanness cannot make sense of a family left without a mother, a young child without a father and a family left without their baby. The thing is that is helping me get through these thoughts, struggles and doubts, is coming to the point that I don't think God intends for me to understand them. One of my favorite quotes comes from Louie Giglio, who says that when we don't understand God we need to realize that he "paints on a canvas bigger than we can see."
According to our human capacity we are all entitled to live a long pain free life, and many will argue that if this is not the case God either doesn't exist or he doesn't care.
What I do know about God is that he is good and he is just and he will get glory out of any situation... but my mind still refuses to get it. That is where faith steps in.
Anyway this isn't some sort of post where I get it and have it all figured out, it is actually me just confessing my weakness, and my inability to understand. So if this sounds confusing and scattered, I am!
So I take my thoughts, my doubts, my lack of understanding- and when I match them up with the amazingness of who God is, and his track record versus mine. I am gonna go with him even though I don't have him wrapped up in a nice little theological box.

That being said, I am done with funerals, bring on the baptisms, baby dedications and weddings. but should death knock close to home again, I will continue to share the hope that is found in the person of Jesus Christ.

Have an amazing day, and my your and my doubt be turned into hope and peace!

God's Plan

2009-03-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things for me to figure out in life is what God wants me to do. I know that my Salvation is based on what he has done, and that there is nothing that I can do to make him love me any more or any less. But do I have a responsibility to God? So trying to find this connection between Gods Grace (him loving me regardless of my actions) and my demonstration of love through being a responsible member of the family of God. It is hard because so much of my life was lived out of religious obligation rather than an outflow of the love that he is pouring into me.
I really believe that it comes from experiencing who he is and trusting him with everything in my life. Then it becomes something that I cant help but do and be rather than what I am required to do because I am a Christian.

Tonight I am looking forward to Bradford sharing his testimony tonight about his experiences of moving from a place of uncertainty to being in the center of God's will. Gonna be great see you tonight.

No Reason, just think Sham-wow guy is amazing!

2009-03-30T16:10:00.001-07:00

He is even bi-lingual

Read this today and was inspired

2009-03-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Article from Paul Angone (graduwait.com)

I was a perpetually petrified little kid. When I learned how to write, I constructed a “What Terrifies Me Top Ten,” just so I could keep all my phobias straight.

The dark and clowns were both mainstays (watching Stephen King’s It without my parent’s knowledge, cemented clowns forever.) Roller coasters, spiders, demons, and my basement all made the list.

Then there were some unusual, miscellaneous fears that rounded off the Top Ten. Ordering at fast food restaurants. Siamese cats. The church sanctuary. (I wasn’t exactly a normal child.)

But my number one on the “What Terrifies Me” list was car washes - the kind where you stay in the car and drive through. Traveling through a car wash was like taking a little jaunt through Hell itself, or so I thought. The water pounded the roof and windows, trying to break through so the menacing rollers and brushes could assassinate me! I’d cry hysterically and make frenzied attempts of escape, like a cat desperately trying to avoid a bath.

Needless to say, my mom was in a real pickle. I was with her every minute of the day and she still needed car washes. So for years, my memories of car washes were laying on the floor of the car with a down comforter over my head. Then I was fine.

My mom didn’t get rid of car washes, and she didn’t get rid of me. She just brought blankets. Smart woman, my mom.

Still Afraid
At twenty-five years old, a quarter of life set in stone; I’ve still got a Top Ten, but constructed with slightly different fears. Carwashes still freak me out a little, but I don’t drive through one with blankets on my head. (For some reason, that freaks other people out.)

No, I’m scared because life’s up to me now.

I’m anxious I’ll fail. I’m terrified that I may not have what it takes.

I’m scared because I can’t see a thing in front of me. I feel like I’m driving a car sixty miles per hour with two flashlights for headlights, I’m blind without a seeing-eye dog. I’m searching for the next step, but I can’t even find the staircase. I trusted my parents when they covered my head in blankets, but now who?

Well I know it’s supposed to be God. I know I should lay my burning fear before Him, so He can put it out with His extinguisher filled with Grade-A Heaven-Air. But as I float in this deep murky water called our twenties and fear latches on me like a giant squid, do I really trust that He’s going to save me before I drown?

Well no, if I’m honest. I tell my Christian friends I do - for appearance sake. I clap and sing, raising my hands with everyone else. But I know my open palms are two liars.

Oh theologically I’d say I still believe in all the “musts.” All the things I learned in Sunday school, I still believe to be true. Cloth-cutout Jesus still has the power to multiply all the graham crackers he wants to in my book. The problem is, I believe in Him, but I don’t necessarily believe Him, if that makes sense? I believe he is God the Father, just not necessarily to me.

Put Away Upstairs
Honestly, I see God more as my crazy uncle, than as my dad. I see him only at major holidays, and don’t trust him to carve the turkey, let alone put blankets over my head. I’m not letting him have that kind of control. Instead I have the kind of trust that locks him upstairs when company comes over.

“All right Uncle God, up those stairs you go. Yep, keep on going. I’ll be up in a little while to check on you.”

“Hey Paul, what was crazy Uncle God saying tonight?”

“You know, the usual gibberish.”

Crazy Godisms
Where do I even start?

How about when he says that all things are possible with him? Or when the Apostle Paul says that God is able to do immeasurably more than we could even ask or imagine? My wildest, most hare-brained ideas about a life lived well are not even a drop in the bucket for him. Well if I really believed Him, I’d have to read these words with such a different intensity, wouldn’t I? If I really believed, Faith and Works would be doing a beautiful waltz throughout the details of every day. Instead, Faith is taking a nap and Works is playing on Facebook.

If I really believed my Father, I’d be comforted as he covered me in blankets. Even if it meant I couldn’t see a thing.

So I know some see Him as their Father and they act accordingly. They stand at the edge of the pool and jump to his open arms without reservation. But not me. I’m petrified, shivering at the edge. I want to jump, but I just don’t believe he’s really going to catch me.

“No thanks Uncle God. I think I’ll go swim in the kiddie-pool instead.” Give me numerous flotation devices to strap to my arms, as I try to survive in three feet of water. At least there, I’ll be safe.

A Couple Questions…
But if I can’t accept his role as my Father, then should I really be calling myself his child? Huh, that question is a tad frightening.

And am I really questioning the legitimacy of His fatherhood because he’s failed to catch me? Or because I’ve failed to jump?

Floating in the yellowish-water of this kiddie-pool, I’m pretty sure I know the answer.

Tonight at Elevate

2009-03-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

Tonight we continue our series "Life in Motion" and have the privilege of having Kyle Bleeker teaching about what God's word has to say about Relationships in Motion.
Jesus had a lot to say about relationships, in fact most of his teachings were based on two things, how we relate to God and others. Those are truly the two key factors in the Christian life; loving God and loving others. If we are getting those two things right, it is amazing how the rest of usually begins to fall in place. And even when it doesn't, we have all we need in place to get through those tough times.

Looking forward to seeing you tonight at 7pm.

Jackson giving Jonah 5

2009-03-21T16:38:00.001-07:00

Great game we won 7-2

John and Jerrod hard at work

2009-03-20T20:38:00.001-07:00

Getting away

2009-03-20T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I jumped in the car with Jerrod and Jonathan and drove to the mountains. We just needed to get away. I have allowed myself to get to busy, to let the business of life over take me and life has been controlling me. What I do, what I don't want to do, has been dictating how I live. Yesterday was a strategic attempt to get away from everything. No TV, no Phone, No business, no projects, just simply my Bible, my Ipod (was worshipping with Crowder), and God.
So Jerrod, John and I each wend out separate ways by the rushing river and just spent some time alone with God.
I cannot say that I had any amazing revelations and earth shattering experiences to report, but I was able for about 3 hours just to listen to God, through his word through music, and just listening to reconnect and to get my life realigned to listening to him.
I need to do that more often. It was a breath of fresh air (literally and spiritually)

I was reinvigorated and am ready to continue the opportunity that God has placed in front of me and invited me to become a part of. God is actively pursuing all people, and he want me to be involved in what he is doing. Not help him, but join into what he is doing and to let him use my hands and feet to carry out what he is going to do. I am very humbled and thankful for what he is going to do.

Here is a pic from where I spent most of my time Friday

2009-03-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

If you are one who reads Elevate Blog regularly, first my apologies for not having more content, I have allowed myself to get over-busy (which usually means more running around and less accomplished.) I appreciate Glen sending in a Blog Article. If you ever have one to share send it to me. Here is Glen's submission:

Boomerang

It’s been a while since I wrote anything but something happened the other day that I just needed to share. You see, I had just had a pretty physically busy work week plus after work I had been on a mission to do my spring cleaning from 2007 (maybe 2006 or 2005) if you know what I mean. I was also going through a trial of a personal nature that had me mentally worn and just plain bummed out.

I had been singing with the worship team at my church on Saturday nights but had told the Pastor I wouldn’t be there because I had plans. Well, my plans fell through and I had spent the whole morning and part of the afternoon trying to recover physically and mentally from the week I had. As I was sitting in my chair I realized that I still might have time to go to church and help with the music but my heart was just not in it. The more I thought about it though, the more I thought that maybe sitting at home all tired and bummed out might not be the best choice, so I kind of made a deal with God that if I could still get up and get ready in time that I would go…knowing that I probably wouldn’t make it.

I slowly went through my routine of getting up and ready, even dragging my feet a little. I didn’t look at the clock even once because in my mind it was a moot point anyway…I didn’t feel like going and I wouldn’t be ready in time anyway. Well, worship team practice started at 3:30pm and when I was dressed and finished getting ready, I was shocked to look at the clock and see that it read 3:15pm. I had to look at another clock to be sure…no way! I said to myself. I had to laugh a little knowing what a tricky guy God is. Ok…I’m going, I told him.

I walked down to my car and started it up to head to church and I immediately began to feel a change in the way I felt. My spirits were lifting! I was listening to the radio and singing along (don’t laugh) with the music. I actually got to church at straight up 3:30pm! As I got out of my car and walked inside I was feeling better and better. Then practice started and a smile began to reappear on my face as everything around me began to disappear and I felt as if it were just me and God there. I could feel God’s presence as I stood alone worshipping to him…the audience of one. For the moment I felt fully restored…the tiredness gone…the heartache gone…all the pain was just gone, and I felt content, joyful, and happy again.

But I haven’t got to the best part yet because something happened afterward that just blew me away. You see, after the service I was hanging out talking to some of the youth and this guy walks up that looked kind of familiar. Turns out he was an older version of a young man from the youth group at our church that I used to talk to and sometimes give a ride home. He lived about 10 miles away so it gave us a little time to talk, but to be honest I don’t think I could have told you one thing we talked about on those drives. It had been 3-4 years and I don’t remember all conversations…plus I’m a guy, and us guys know when the conversations over…it’s usually forgotten. Which gets us in trouble sometimes…but that’s another story.

Anyway…I asked him how things had been going and he said things were fine and that he had just been trying to follow some of my advice. Now I was really curious what I might have said to this young man that he actually thought worthy of following, so I asked, “what advice are you talking about?” And this is what he said…

”You said that sometimes when you really don’t feel like going to church…is when you really need to go the most.”

When he said that I new God had brought his word back to me, like a boomerang, at a time when I needed to hear it the most and I confessed to my young friend that that was exactly what had happened to me that evening and that I was so glad that I had not avoided time with God that night.

I’m glad I had taken my own advice…with a little help from God…and a slow clock!

By Glen Bryant

What do you want to be when you grow up?

2009-03-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

I am getting close to 40 and I still don't know. That's probably why I really enjoy hanging out with Primarily college students and young adults. I really enjoy seeing people begin to transform from high school restlessness to realizing what they are passionate and where they are wanting to throw their focus.
When I was in college I made the transition from wanting to be a teacher/coach to wanting to become a youth pastor. I threw everything I had into it and spent 15 years hanging out with junior high and high school students. I am now at a place where I have a passion to see college students use their amazing gifts and energies to invest in God's Kingdom.
I am looking forward to a new series we are starting on Transformation, and challenging ourselves to not look at what God has for us in the future. But how we can can connect our dreams and abilities into his plan for eternal life change in people.

Ecclesiastes is a great Book, Here is what Solomon had to say about living life:

^7-10 Seize life! Eat bread with gusto,
Drink wine with a robust heart.
Oh yes—God takes pleasure in your pleasure!
Dress festively every morning.
Don't skimp on colors and scarves.
Relish life with the spouse you love
Each and every day of your precarious life.
Each day is God's gift. It's all you get in exchange
For the hard work of staying alive.
Make the most of each one!
Whatever turns up, grab it and do it. And heartily!
This is your last and only chance at it,
For there's neither work to do nor thoughts to think
In the company of the dead, where you're most certainly headed.

Psalm 40

2009-03-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

One of my Favorite Psalms, I read it in the Message this morning. and had a very needed freeing effect on me.

Psalm 40

^1-3 I waited and waited and waited for God. At last he looked; finally he listened.
He lifted me out of the ditch,
pulled me from deep mud.
He stood me up on a solid rock
to make sure I wouldn't slip.
He taught me how to sing the latest God-song,
a praise-song to our God.
More and more people are seeing this:
they enter the mystery,
abandoning themselves to God.

^4-5 Blessed are you who give yourselves over to God,
turn your backs on the world's "sure thing,"
ignore what the world worships;
The world's a huge stockpile
of God-wonders and God-thoughts.
Nothing and no one
comes close to you!
I start talking about you, telling what I know,
and quickly run out of words.
Neither numbers nor words
account for you.

⁶ Doing something for you, bringing something to you—
that's not what you're after.
Being religious, acting pious—
that's not what you're asking for.
You've opened my ears
so I can listen.

^7-8 So I answered, "I'm coming.
I read in your letter what you wrote about me,
And I'm coming to the party
you're throwing for me."
That's when God's Word entered my life,
became part of my very being.

Seeing

2009-03-04T08:24:00.001-08:00

Last night Elevate was a amazing experience. They music was incredible. I shared out of 1 Kings chapter 6 how God opened the servant of Elijah's eyes so that he could see what was really going on.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (The Message)

^16-18So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever.

Video below is a good reminder of what we need to focus on.

John and the band

2009-02-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

Elevate rockin tonight.

2009-02-24T19:42:00.001-08:00

What is Love?

2009-02-23T09:20:00.001-08:00

Love is the greatest gift ever given. It is also one of the most misunderstood and miscommunicated things know to mankind. Jesus understood that, and came to show us a tangible representation of what real love looked like.

Thursday- ALready! (transformation and freedom)

2009-02-19T06:23:00.001-08:00

In the transformation process it is easy to begin to get frustrated with yourself for not getting enough done. Life has a crazy way of just happening to me. Here it is Thursday and I feel like I have so many things to do and not enough time in the day (I haven't even written since Saturday, Oh the guilt and shame). There are also so many things that come in and take precedence over the things that I want to get done. I am learning (slowly) that my plans aren't always what God want to get done. When I set out to plan my work week and try to get things done I didn't anticipate spending a good portion of my time spending time with a grieving family and planning a funeral. But their hurt and God's desire to use me in this situation is more important than any of the "cool stuff" I had planned.
I really feel every Christian's role in life is to simply be Jesus to people, again its not a strict list of things to avoid and a list of things we should be doing, it is allowing Christs love to throw through our lives. Transformation occurs and we become more like him, not when we achieve perfection, because we are incapable. The hard thing is to prevent our own flesh from allowing us to live in this freedom, either through selfishness or religious attempts at spiritual growth. I love how Paul states this in Romans 6. Before he met Jesus he was an extreme legalist who followed a list of do's and don'ts, he also followed people around and made sure they were doing the same. But when he met Jesus his life transformed. In Romans 6 here is what he said about righteousness.
^15-18So, since we're out from under the old tyranny, does that mean we can live any old way we want? Since we're free in the freedom of God, can we do anything that comes to mind? Hardly. You know well enough from your own experience that there are some acts of so-called freedom that destroy freedom. Offer yourselves to sin, for instance, and it's your last free act. But offer yourselves to the ways of God and the freedom never quits. All your lives you've let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you've started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom!
Indulging in sin is not freedom, neither is following a strict list of religious rules, both place us in bondage. Freedom comes from accepting this amazing crazy love that God shows, and not allowing our sinful nature to control us. Its not about doing better or being a better Christian, It is simply letting Jesus be Jesus in us and to others.

I am thankful that "my plans" have been turned upside down and I look forward to being Jesus to this family in desperate need of Jesus' these next few days. There are things I wanted to get done and things I have set out to do that will not happen. But the transformation I am seeking will not happen on my terms or through my list of challenges I have set before myself.

The genuine transformation process doesn't having a formula, other than Loving God and Loving others, plain and simple.

Romans 8 Paul shares this about how to live in Freedom and experience Spiritual Growth and Transformation when we finally realize we cannot do it through out own hard work.

^5-7Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

There is one who loved like no other, if you havent heard the story if Valentine, It is interesting. According to legend, there was a third century Christian who lived in Rome named Valentine. He was imprisoned during one of the periodic persecutions against Christians and was sentenced to death. While in prison, Valentine was able to gather violets outside his cell window. He sent them to his loved ones with the message, "Remember your Valentine." After his death he was canonized by the Catholic Church. So now we have "St. Valentine's Day," a day when we send cards to our loved ones asking them to remember us.

Valentine is one of the few have have had to give their life in return for the life that was given to them.

We have the freedom to love and be loved. I am challenged to make the most out of the love that has been shown me. My hope and prayer that it turns into "Crazy Love" in all area's of life.

Transformation Day 3

2009-02-12T13:02:00.000-08:00

So this transformation thing takes work. It is also not easy. The day I start the flu bug invades my house, that night we had no sleep- which is not good for trying to keep my 6AM commitment. Jackson (pictured above looking miserable) is sitting beside me with a stuffy nose, pink eye, and an ear infection, he slept a total of about 1-2 hours on tuesday night. And last night Jonah had to have an asthma treatment. This is actually good for my preparation to teach and share this with others- this is not a legalistic attempt to please God and to get him to do more stuff for me because of my hard work. This is done out of a passionate love that has first been shown to me. So I am learning that Love needs to continue even if the circumstances are perfect. So I am going to press on through and continue to keep my commitments, even though it is tough. If I miss or make a mistake, I will not wallow in guilt, rather I will continue to seek ways where my love can be expressed. God is not interested in my offering or sacrifices, he is interested in the intentions of my heart and willingness to submit my will to his.
I love how the Message Bible puts Psalms 40:6-8
⁶ Doing something for you, bringing something to you—
that's not what you're after.
Being religious, acting pious—
that's not what you're asking for.
You've opened my ears
so I can listen.

^7-8 So I answered, "I'm coming.
I read in your letter what you wrote about me,
And I'm coming to the party
you're throwing for me."
That's when God's Word entered my life,
became part of my very being.

Jerrod getting crushed by Allen

2009-02-11T09:58:00.001-08:00

At ag expo

2009-02-11T09:50:00.001-08:00

30 day Challenge for transformation

2009-02-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I started a 30 day Challenge. I am going to take some dramatic steps in my life to declare my love for God. I am not doing this because I have to or because I feel it is my duty, there is no guilt or shame attached to this... I am challenged by the "Crazy Love" that God has shown me and would like to respond in a crazy manner.

Perfect timing, the day I start my 30 day challenge the flu-bug hits our home. But somehow I have managed to stay on track.

Once again these are things that I want to do out of a "crazy love" for God in response for who he is and of what he has done, (they are not a formula for anyone else, we all respond in our own way. The only thing the Lord desires is a willing heart.)

Here is what I am proposing to do over the next 30 days:

Starting Monday Feb 9th-
Goals-
1. Wake up at 6AM and Have time with God. (Spiritual Transformation)
2. Watch Less TV- Limited to a few shows with my wife, One Basketball Game a week. And spend more time reading the Bible and Challenging books (Spiritual and Mental Transformation).
3. Take my Wife on a date twice a month.- Devote a specific hour to each of my boys weekly (Relational Transformation)
4. Hit the gym at least 4 times a week. (Physical Transformation)
5. Improve my Intake of Food, NO Fast food stop drinking Soda and cut way back on Coffee. (Physical and Financial Transformation)
6. Meet with a Mentor Once a Week. (Emotional and Mental Transformation)

I will be getting a little more specific in the days to come.

This is based on a few scriptures:

Jesus said to him, “‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
(Matthew 22:37 – 40)

God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God. Matthew 5:8

The Heart of God

2009-02-05T10:24:00.000-08:00

I did a message talking about being after God's heart, I interview a bunch of people on video asking them what it meant when the bible said David was a man after God's own heart. The best answer was given by a guy who said simply "It means that God had a heart and David was after it." I love that definition. In Genesis when God creates humans he said let us make man in our own image. I believe that was referring to the heart. The ability to love and be loved, to choose to make decisions and experience emotions or feelings.
This past week at Elevate we talked about how amazing and magnificent God is, and that even if he wasn't as good as he is to us, he would still be worthy of our worship. Psalm 19 is an incredible passage where David talks about the beauty and majesty of God shares in vivid detail the awe that surrounds the almighty God. His invitation at the end of the chapter is to taste and see. I am learning that when we begin to take God at his word and take him up on his offer to experience his fullness by reaching out in faith and taking what he is offering, it is much better than anything I can experience in this messed up world.
My challenge today is to chase after the heart of God (even though he is chasing me) and see Him in the any area of life experience.
God's best to you as you seek his heart!

Crazy Love at Elevate

2009-02-04T00:14:00.000-08:00

Grace

2009-02-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

The best definition of Grace I have heard is simply "God giving us what we don't deserve." Today I am feeling full of grace, blessing and provisions that God has given. I don't always feel that way, sometimes I get the "why me?" attitude, long for things I don't need, and complain about the things that I encounter. I am amazed that God still continues to pour out goodness on a daily basis. I had a situation arise this last week that made me for a second question Gods goodness and care for me at that instant second (stupid, i know). Today I saw that the thing I complained about was replaced by something even greater.

I don't know if I will ever get to a place of complete unquestioned trust, but I do know that God keeps all of his promises and that his plans are better than anything I could ever dream up for myself. Jeremiah 29:11 states very clearly God has a plan for our lives. I want his best not my plans.

From Guest Blogger Donny Barnes

2009-01-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

I need to stop reading the news. It’s making me depressed.

Every day seems to bring new headlines of economic problems, company closures, increasing unemployment, and an uncertain (but pretty pessimistic) future. By now, most of us know someone who has lost a job or has been affected by this economy. Maybe some of us are already in that boat ourselves.

I don’t know if things will get better immediately in 2009. In fact, many analysts are predicting that they won’t. So as followers of Jesus, we have two basic options:
1. We can be paralyzed by fear and self-pity like everyone else, or
2. We can look for opportunities to help and serve others, because there will be plenty of them.

Times like these aren’t fun, but they’re usually better for our spiritual health, and for the Jesus-movement in general. Throughout history, the Church has never done well with prosperity, either on an individual or collective level. And that’s not surprising. It’s always easy to forget God when we’re doing well and everything is going right. But when times get tough, and the material things that we’ve subtly started to worship disappear, we remember that there’s only one true source of life. As we re-learn to rely on God, and as the rest of the world becomes more needy, the Church shines.

I predict that 2009 will give us huge opportunities to tangibly show people what Jesus is all about by helping people in need. I love Philippians 2:3-4, which says to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” I also love II Corinthians 5:20: “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.”

I like pairing these verses because it reminds me that there’s a specific reason why we’re supposed to be unselfish, and it’s not because it makes us feel warm and fuzzy. God has given us the privilege and responsibility to be His ambassadors, His witnesses, to a broken world. Despite how broken I am myself, I am tasked with showing Christ’s love to people who might not encounter it otherwise, and that usually requires me to step outside my own circle of convenience.

We only get so many chances to sacrifice for other people. And we should see more than usual over the coming months. Let’s not waste them.

elevate

2009-01-28T11:26:00.000-08:00

Hate being sick

2009-01-26T15:22:00.001-08:00

Here is where I have been spending way too much time. (the pharmacy). Should be well soon :)