2009 and Transformation

First of all its hard to believe that 1/24th of 2009 in already over. That is nuts. I am really excited about what this year has in store. I was asked today what I wanted to see happen this year at Elevate, and my answer was Transformation. I long to see people move from where they are (or were) to a new place of fulfilling what God had planned for them.

I want to start with me. Over the next few days i want to set up some goals, some tangible things that I can pursue. Not out of guilt or obligation but rather out of a passionate love for God.

Some of the things I would like to transform into this year:

1. An intentional husband and father.
2. Become a passionate reader of God's word
3. Become a spiritual leader (not by name: pastor, but by earning that right in people's lives
4. Become an avid reader
5. Become a saver rather than a spender.
6. Remember people's names that I meet.

I will expound in the days to come on the specifics for each of these. There is no way I can pull this off, I don't have the strength. But God promised that he would provide where I fall short and beyond. Psalm 84 says: What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord.

Elevate Last Night: "What would you do?"

Last night John gave a challenge of "What would you do" if Jesus came to you and asked you to drop everything and follow him. I would like to think that I wouldn't hesitate. The truth is that I have a lot of things that I hold dear and would probably hesitate, my prayer is that I would see how much more amazing God's plan is than the stuff I am holding and be willing to chuck everything and follow him.
The message should be up on itunes by this afternoon. You can grab it on the link to the right or click here.

Francis Chan video

One of my favorite speakers to listen to is Francis Chan. He put together a hilarious Video for his wife. If you have never read his book or heard Francis Chan speak check him out at cornerstonesimi.com

Elevate Rocked last night. We had a standing room only crowd and had an powerful time of worship through music and teaching. Tuesday message series is entitled "What would you do" which is looking at what life would look like if we stepped into practicing unconditional faith and trusting God.

Last night we talked about Adam and Eve and contrasted their first decision with King Solomon's decision when God told him He would grant any wish.

We each had a bag of M&M's to remind us of the choices we make.

We are looking forward to an Amazing year in 2009, I pray that the decisions that we make as a leadership team for what happens and where God is leading us would be wise choices rooted in unconditional faith.

God is good and has amazing things in store... Buckle your seat belt

Elevate is rocking

Its 710 and we are packed out.

Happy Monday

Today is Monday. I actually don't mind Monday's, I like fresh starts and a chance to do something new. Mondays aren't the same for me because Tuesday is kind of the culmination of my week. I get to spend some time with my boys in the morning, get them of to school and start my day. This week we are starting a new series called what would you do. It is a series based on being great and embracing integrity.
God is an amazing God of fresh starts and what I love about him is that he always takes us right where we are at and allows us to jump on board with him. We don't have to get ourselves into a place where we are more usable, all we have to do is be willing.
Monday to me is like that fresh start, I have the choice of looking back and being frustrated or discouraged for the mistakes I have made and the things I haven't accomplished; or I can jump on board with what God is doing today.
I desire greatness... not for accolades or pats on the back, but because I believe that Jesus created me to be great and to excel at whatever I do with his strength and power.

So the question for you this Monday is what would (or will) you do? Today am taking Pauls challenge from Philippians by forgetting what is behind and to press forward to the goal. The goal is greatness in Christ.

Happpy Monday.

Hangin with Jerrod today

Great things ahead for elevate, that's fo sho'