Perspective is the most beautiful thing.
Tuesday night during the last night of the Cadre my sister called to tell me that my dad was in the hospital. Earlier that day, I was told he was found outside trying to open the front door with his car keys, then starring into the microwave and talking to it (don't worry you can laugh a little at that one, it's much more fun than crying). Anyway, in a matter of hours he was in a catatonic non-responsive state. He's been that way for the last 36 hours. They've run all sorts of test (EEG, EKG, spinal tap and now a full MRI) and have ruled out a lot of stuff, but haven't figured out the cause.
When the Cadre was going on my head was spinning so fast with it, that his hospitalization really didn't fully hit me. Today, it did. The thoughts that race through your head, the tears that randomly well up in your eyes, the contemplation of the future makes your heart heavy and your stomach sick... it's almost overwhelming. I can't even begin to tell you how grateful that my last words to him were "I love you dad."
Then about a half hour ago, my friend put the phone up to his ear and, while he couldn't open his eyes and is randomly yelling out numbers, we had a conversation. It was brief, but I got the opportunity to say "I love you dad" a few more time and he said it back. I am grateful.
Today when the MC kids told me of a few mishaps during the clean up of the Cadre, like the van got stuck in the grass and tore up some sod, we blew two tires, and there is a bag of candy missing for the next Cadre welcome bags, etc ... my response was buy some sod and don't back the trailer into the driveway anymore, buy a couple of tires and get the breaks checked, buy some more candy and we'll lock it up next time ... in light of eternity, it's really not a big deal. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
So, I'm on a plane home this weekend. In the meantime, my sister and brother are taking turns at the hospital. In addition, I have the MOST AMAZING friends in the universe who are taking turns up at hospital as well. I am so thankful. Very few people on the planet are as fortunate as I am to have one friend like this ... let alone a bunch of them.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
The Cadre and Mach 5
Mach 5 feels like the speed I am running right now. I just got finished with a "big chunk" and have four more "big chunks" on my plate to finish by Sunday.
We just rapped up our first Cadre Advance of the 2007-2008 (seven more to go). It was ridiculously amazing. We hosted 35 youth pastors for two days (three days including travel). Our goal was to spoil them like crazy, yet at the same time equip them to do ministry at a new level. From their comments, we succeeded. It took pretty much all of us on campus to do that ... all 97 of us.
Words cannot express (actually, they probably could, I'm just too tired) what it was like to have the opportunity to breathe life into them ... for some came in wounded, tired and discouraged, while others were great and just simply want to become the best they can be in order to serve the kids they so dearly love.
This was my first one to be one the primary leads. I was encouraged by the comments received on how I helped to make it better than ever. I guess ten years of orchestrating a week of camp each year paid off. Simply put, I totally love this place!
We just rapped up our first Cadre Advance of the 2007-2008 (seven more to go). It was ridiculously amazing. We hosted 35 youth pastors for two days (three days including travel). Our goal was to spoil them like crazy, yet at the same time equip them to do ministry at a new level. From their comments, we succeeded. It took pretty much all of us on campus to do that ... all 97 of us.
Words cannot express (actually, they probably could, I'm just too tired) what it was like to have the opportunity to breathe life into them ... for some came in wounded, tired and discouraged, while others were great and just simply want to become the best they can be in order to serve the kids they so dearly love.
This was my first one to be one the primary leads. I was encouraged by the comments received on how I helped to make it better than ever. I guess ten years of orchestrating a week of camp each year paid off. Simply put, I totally love this place!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
A Kiss From Heaven
Have you ever had those times where it feels like a kiss from heaven. I've had many, but two stand out in the last few months. Here they are...
1. My last day at Oasis when attendance hit 1,066. Not that numbers matter, but we all know they do. I remember someone asking, "did you ever think you'd hit a thousand?" Can't say that I had. It was a great night and the kids were so in tuned. That was pretty amazing in itself.
2. Last night Jeanne gave me a pass on coming to Oxygen, which I so appreciated the offer. However, I haven't missed a Wednesday night in over a dozen years if it was even remotely possible for me to get there (in fact, I remember driving like a mad women from Georgia, just to try and get there for the last fifteen minutes). I couldn't and wouldn't even think of missing it last night. Plus, it was 02 night, which means we would be in our small groups for the majority of the night. So, last month during our 02 group we had 8 students, and this month we were up to 26 kids. I'm not sure how you can get just excited over 26 as you do 1,066, but I was. Both nights felt like a kiss.
1. My last day at Oasis when attendance hit 1,066. Not that numbers matter, but we all know they do. I remember someone asking, "did you ever think you'd hit a thousand?" Can't say that I had. It was a great night and the kids were so in tuned. That was pretty amazing in itself.
2. Last night Jeanne gave me a pass on coming to Oxygen, which I so appreciated the offer. However, I haven't missed a Wednesday night in over a dozen years if it was even remotely possible for me to get there (in fact, I remember driving like a mad women from Georgia, just to try and get there for the last fifteen minutes). I couldn't and wouldn't even think of missing it last night. Plus, it was 02 night, which means we would be in our small groups for the majority of the night. So, last month during our 02 group we had 8 students, and this month we were up to 26 kids. I'm not sure how you can get just excited over 26 as you do 1,066, but I was. Both nights felt like a kiss.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
One thing I'm sure of
Ughhhhhh...did you ever have one of those days that makes you want to puke ... literally. One of my dearest friend's nephew committed suicide this morning, my dad's depressive side of his bi-polar has flared up again leaving him weak and reclusive and a handful of my friends have decided it's time to pull the rip cord before the landing leaves them with scars (long story you don't need to know about). It leaves you thinking what could I/we have done differently? My friends are hurting, I can't do anything. My dad is hurting, I can't do anything. My family is hurting, I can't do anything. I'm at a loss. The only thing I'm sure of right now is that God is still on the throne.
Sorry, no perky post today.
Sorry, no perky post today.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Anon's Story
You have a story ... I have a story ... we all have a story. If you let God hold the pen and write the story, it's much more creative, adventurous, fun, edgy and, yes, even scary than if you try and write your own. I remember when Rob first told Anon's story. I got goose bumps then, and just now when I read it again on Rob's blog.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Be There When It Matters Most - Simple, Yet Profound Lesson on Life
Even though I so want to, I can't maintain all the relationships I've developed throughout my life. I can't be there for a Friday night movie, all the birthday parties, the occasion dinner or hangout at Starbucks. I gave up a long time ago and made the decision not to feel "guilty" about it. However, there are key moments in my friends' lives where I will do whatever it takes to be there for them. This weekend is one of those moments. My friends T and Amealia are getting married in, of all places, Canada.
T and I go way back. He was my very first band director. After practice, he and I would talk late, sometimes until 2 a.m., about life and ministry. He went on to join Ron Luce with Teen Mania for two years. He is an amazing solid man of God. Amealia is amazing as well.
T was the big brother of Karissa. She would hang out until 2 a.m. as well. I'm not sure it was by choice, as much as T was her ride. She was quiet then and would, for the most part, just listen in on our conversations. Karissa is now a missionary in Malawi, Africa.
I love them and their family. So this weekend, I'm jumping on a plane and flying into Detroit, then driving 2 1/2 hours into Canada. Why? Because this is one of those important events in their life I want to be apart of.
I learned the "be there when it matters most" lesson right after my sister had shoulder surgery. At around 3 a.m. she made a 911 call to me because "she knew I'd be awake." She was in severe pain but the pain medicine was making her sick to her stomach. She had a perscription to get rid of the naseau but it needed filled. So, CVS and I befriended each other around 3:30 a.m. That was a marking moment for her. Lil' sis did good that day!
Dawsonville Georgia
Got back this morning from a conference Jeanne was the General Session Speaker at in Dawnsonville Georgia. Dawsonville is about an hour north of Atlanta on the infamous Gerogia 400. A couple of take aways...
1. Including me, there were six Cadre members there. Marty and I are alumni, Rolando is in his second year, and Julie, Joe and Christy are in the first year class. Julie, Joe and Christy are excited about the coming days in the Cadre. They will all be here October 22-23 for our first Advance. I'm not sure what you call it, but there is this amazing relational connection happening within the Cadre in a very short time and the momentum is only growing. I can't really explain it, just know I love it.
2. I had some amazing people working the product booth for Jeanne. One of the ladies was an aunt who was doing her very best to have an impact on her nephew and niece. She reminded me of my early days with Josh and Ashlyn. Another one was a mom and foster mom to six. One of the kids was there and his name was Taylor. Great kid, but I knew he really didn't feel like he fit in anywhere. When we were having coffee after the conference, Christy and I were chatting about "Taylor." She talked about how he comes here and there but isn't consistent. I encouraged her to give him a job to do and I think he'd show up every week. I don't know if that was experience talking or a Holy Spirit nudge but I hope she takes me up on it.
3. This is the theme of my life right now. But Jeanne said something in the car, unrelated to the conference, that stuck. Very simple, yet profound. "Judy, people really are hungry for even the smallest amount of authentic encourgement."
1. Including me, there were six Cadre members there. Marty and I are alumni, Rolando is in his second year, and Julie, Joe and Christy are in the first year class. Julie, Joe and Christy are excited about the coming days in the Cadre. They will all be here October 22-23 for our first Advance. I'm not sure what you call it, but there is this amazing relational connection happening within the Cadre in a very short time and the momentum is only growing. I can't really explain it, just know I love it.
2. I had some amazing people working the product booth for Jeanne. One of the ladies was an aunt who was doing her very best to have an impact on her nephew and niece. She reminded me of my early days with Josh and Ashlyn. Another one was a mom and foster mom to six. One of the kids was there and his name was Taylor. Great kid, but I knew he really didn't feel like he fit in anywhere. When we were having coffee after the conference, Christy and I were chatting about "Taylor." She talked about how he comes here and there but isn't consistent. I encouraged her to give him a job to do and I think he'd show up every week. I don't know if that was experience talking or a Holy Spirit nudge but I hope she takes me up on it.
3. This is the theme of my life right now. But Jeanne said something in the car, unrelated to the conference, that stuck. Very simple, yet profound. "Judy, people really are hungry for even the smallest amount of authentic encourgement."
Friday, October 05, 2007
Empower or Perish
I'm in a real intereting new place, one I've never fully been in before. I've empowered teams who have proven themselves trustworthy, I've delegated to individuals who I've had to depend on but weren't trustworthy and I've done a whole lot of stuff myself. However, in this new position, the empowering has went up to the nth degree. There is an immediate urgency to master. I'm learning quick. Today was interesting, here were the meetings...
Met with Jon and asked him to champion the team who will be working on the video project I've kind of created and the board approved. He's creative as all get out and can take my ideas to the next level...big time, but only if he has "buy in." After vision casting, he's "all in." I've given him the starting point with the hopes he will soar with his creatively wired mind.
Met with Jay and asked him to champion getting the 200+ resources we have on DVD into a downloadable format so when the new storefront goes up they will be ready. He can talk lingo I've never heard of to get what needs to be done...well... done. He's pretty stoked about the project and already has the team in mind to help him.
Met with the Cadre MC Executive Team (13 in all). Those who will head up tokens, transportation, apartment, cleaning, decor, communications, shopping, food, moving, valet and media teams to cast vision and talk about responsibilities. I talked about the importance of taking care of people and how it is transferrable to every area of minstry, as well as the corporate world. A pay check will only take you so far when it comes to motivation. Whoever sits under their leadership will work harder, longer and faster, as well as be happier, if they feel authentically loved, cared for and like they matter. The key is to continually work on being intentional. In order to accomplish what they are going to have to get done, they will have to empower their own teams. I think they will do great. They all have worked with and love the Cadre.
Met with Andrew, my junior high guy and checked in on our postcard launching the first promoted series ever in Sunday school and our 02 group. His work was awesome. Cheryl is working on our database which is lacking at the moment. It's weird to work junior high from the backseat. However, I'm up to bat teaching the students this weekend, so it should be fun.
My Administrative Assistant, Cherry, is doing a great job at helping me keep all the balls in the air.
Met with Jon and asked him to champion the team who will be working on the video project I've kind of created and the board approved. He's creative as all get out and can take my ideas to the next level...big time, but only if he has "buy in." After vision casting, he's "all in." I've given him the starting point with the hopes he will soar with his creatively wired mind.
Met with Jay and asked him to champion getting the 200+ resources we have on DVD into a downloadable format so when the new storefront goes up they will be ready. He can talk lingo I've never heard of to get what needs to be done...well... done. He's pretty stoked about the project and already has the team in mind to help him.
Met with the Cadre MC Executive Team (13 in all). Those who will head up tokens, transportation, apartment, cleaning, decor, communications, shopping, food, moving, valet and media teams to cast vision and talk about responsibilities. I talked about the importance of taking care of people and how it is transferrable to every area of minstry, as well as the corporate world. A pay check will only take you so far when it comes to motivation. Whoever sits under their leadership will work harder, longer and faster, as well as be happier, if they feel authentically loved, cared for and like they matter. The key is to continually work on being intentional. In order to accomplish what they are going to have to get done, they will have to empower their own teams. I think they will do great. They all have worked with and love the Cadre.
Met with Andrew, my junior high guy and checked in on our postcard launching the first promoted series ever in Sunday school and our 02 group. His work was awesome. Cheryl is working on our database which is lacking at the moment. It's weird to work junior high from the backseat. However, I'm up to bat teaching the students this weekend, so it should be fun.
My Administrative Assistant, Cherry, is doing a great job at helping me keep all the balls in the air.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
100 Largest US Churches and the Cadre
Just got a list from Outreach Magazine of the 100 Largest U.S. Churches. I thought it was awesome that three of the youth pastor's on the largest churches list are being mentored by Jeanne in the Cadre. Very cool!
Here's the top 10 out of 100...
1. Lakewood Church, Houston, TX – Joel Osteen (47,000)
2. Willow Creek Com. Church, South Barrington, IL – Bill Hybels (23,500)
3. Second Baptist Church, Houston, TX – Ed Young Sr. (23,198)
4. Saddleback Church, Lake Forest, CA – Rick Warren (22,000)
5. LifeChurch.tv, Edmond, OK – Craig Groeschel (19,907)
6. Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, KY – Dave Stone (18,013)
7. North Point Church, Alpharetta, GA – Andy Stanley (17,700)
8. Thomas Road Baptist Church, Lynchburg, VA – Jonathan Falwell (17.445)
9. Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, FL – Bob Coy (17,000)
10. The Potter's House, Dallas, TX – T.D. Jakes (17,000)
Here's the top 10 out of 100...
1. Lakewood Church, Houston, TX – Joel Osteen (47,000)
2. Willow Creek Com. Church, South Barrington, IL – Bill Hybels (23,500)
3. Second Baptist Church, Houston, TX – Ed Young Sr. (23,198)
4. Saddleback Church, Lake Forest, CA – Rick Warren (22,000)
5. LifeChurch.tv, Edmond, OK – Craig Groeschel (19,907)
6. Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, KY – Dave Stone (18,013)
7. North Point Church, Alpharetta, GA – Andy Stanley (17,700)
8. Thomas Road Baptist Church, Lynchburg, VA – Jonathan Falwell (17.445)
9. Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, FL – Bob Coy (17,000)
10. The Potter's House, Dallas, TX – T.D. Jakes (17,000)
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Did you ever get a cool email and was such a ego stroke or self-esteem booster that you wanted to post it for the world to read? What is that inside of you that wants to let the world know? I got one of those a couple of days ago from my boss/friend, but I'll soemhow refrain from posting.
Wasn't Board at the Board Meeting
Just came off two days with the Board of Directors at Youth Leader's Coach...
1. I think we scored a win with the board notebook. After nearly killing ourselves and having to come up with a few creative solutions, Missy and I knocked out the 178 page full color notebook. I know know Adobe Indesign far more than I want to. I also don't want to proofread anything for a realllllllllllllllllllllllllllllly long time. I have one question though, why is it anytime you have a big project with a deadline the copier decides to die? Are there copier demons? If there are, why are they following me ... do I have some unrepented sin (j/k)?
2. When I hear board meeting I usually think "boring," but not Jeanne's. Her's include videos, field trips, a casket (yep), firemen helmets, people telling their stories and a whole lot more.
3. She's got some heavy heavy hitters who also work with the Dream Center in LA. They took Jordan, Laurie and I out to dinner last night. I loved hearing their stories where they've seen God show up in some pretty big ways. I also love the fact that they are big time into investments. People like me, with accounting backgrounds, dig those stories too.
4. My boss is insane. She went from the two day board meeting, to marathon building and insurance meetings today, to writing an article, to back to back speaking engagements in Texas and Georgia this weekend. I'm pretty excited about hitting the second half of the weekend with her in Georgia. I'll be hanging out with some of my favorite Cadre peeps.
1. I think we scored a win with the board notebook. After nearly killing ourselves and having to come up with a few creative solutions, Missy and I knocked out the 178 page full color notebook. I know know Adobe Indesign far more than I want to. I also don't want to proofread anything for a realllllllllllllllllllllllllllllly long time. I have one question though, why is it anytime you have a big project with a deadline the copier decides to die? Are there copier demons? If there are, why are they following me ... do I have some unrepented sin (j/k)?
2. When I hear board meeting I usually think "boring," but not Jeanne's. Her's include videos, field trips, a casket (yep), firemen helmets, people telling their stories and a whole lot more.
3. She's got some heavy heavy hitters who also work with the Dream Center in LA. They took Jordan, Laurie and I out to dinner last night. I loved hearing their stories where they've seen God show up in some pretty big ways. I also love the fact that they are big time into investments. People like me, with accounting backgrounds, dig those stories too.
4. My boss is insane. She went from the two day board meeting, to marathon building and insurance meetings today, to writing an article, to back to back speaking engagements in Texas and Georgia this weekend. I'm pretty excited about hitting the second half of the weekend with her in Georgia. I'll be hanging out with some of my favorite Cadre peeps.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
The Cadre
The Cadre is a personal mentoring program that reached down and jump started my heart two years ago. It was my next step in defining who I wanted to be personally, then ultimately where I wanted to invest my life professionally. So far 205 youth pastors have gone through the program and the next 75 are up to bat. We had to turn people away this year, that was pretty tough. However, in order to keep the intimate nature of the Cadre Advances (retreats) at Jeanne's house it was necessary. Here's the break down of the two classes.
New Second Year Class - Epic
New First Year Classes - Litmus and Prestige
The starting gun sounded Thursday with their first conference call. Our next one is October with Tim Elmore, should be great stuff.
We are running hard and fast into the three Advances - October 22-23, November 5-6 and November 16-19. We're going to be rockin' and runnin' hard.
I set up their email accounts and the emails are already flyin' her way. I love it! Jeanne is still bent on answering everyone herself. I don't think that will ever change. Which is good, cause I'm still running 50 a day and it's about to bury me.
Here's the data on the two first year classes...
They are from 25 different states, 11 different denominations, collectively lead over 8,000 students, range in age 22 to 37 and are 80% men and 20% women.
I just watched the video for the board of Cadre stories ... three words ,,, oh my goodness.
New Second Year Class - Epic
New First Year Classes - Litmus and Prestige
The starting gun sounded Thursday with their first conference call. Our next one is October with Tim Elmore, should be great stuff.
We are running hard and fast into the three Advances - October 22-23, November 5-6 and November 16-19. We're going to be rockin' and runnin' hard.
I set up their email accounts and the emails are already flyin' her way. I love it! Jeanne is still bent on answering everyone herself. I don't think that will ever change. Which is good, cause I'm still running 50 a day and it's about to bury me.
Here's the data on the two first year classes...
They are from 25 different states, 11 different denominations, collectively lead over 8,000 students, range in age 22 to 37 and are 80% men and 20% women.
I just watched the video for the board of Cadre stories ... three words ,,, oh my goodness.
Friday, September 28, 2007
I think I just heard heaven come down
I just came off our Friday chapel with the MC students. Worship was off-the-chart. My prayer is that when I get to heaven, and we are singing around the throne, that Alex Brown is somewhere near me. His voice is SWEET and his character even sweeter. I love when he leads!
Alex played a song called Restoration and outperformed the artist, but if you want to get a taste of it, go here. It rocked my soul.
Alex played a song called Restoration and outperformed the artist, but if you want to get a taste of it, go here. It rocked my soul.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Random Things Today
Oxygen: Just came off Oxygen tonight where Jordan taught. Not only does his integrity and passion for ministry run deep, but I think he's the most creative guy I've ever met when it comes to sermon illustrations. Tonight he delivered yet again. He's given two messages in the last four days, all while making Master's Commission go round for 85+ students. I still can't believe the team I get to work alongside. Jeanne and I keep having "I'm so grateful moments for you" moments. She plain and simple just makes me better and has mastered the art of making me feel crazy appreciated. I'm trying to do that for my team in my own "Judy" sort of way. So far, it's worked really well.
Junior High Parents: My first meeting with a parent of two junior high students was today at lunch. It rocked! I dreamed the dream and cast vision for where I saw the junior high ministry going. The words I heard that rang loud in my ears were "I love it. Judy, I can tell you've been emersed in this awhile. How long did it take you to think of all of this?" and "Seriously, Judy, anything I can do to help make it happen let me know."
02 Groups: I'm watching the leaders of leaders get ready for the launch of 02 groups. Wow, they are passionate about it! They took it to a whole new level than I did with Eagle's Nest. There are full color binders with cool graphics and tokens everywhere! The momentum they're creating with this thing is very cool. I'm am sooo watching and learning.
Opportunities: My pal Sean over at Stuck in the Middle asked me to check out his next big event in Kansas City in March 08 to give him some feedback and lead a breakout session. The conference he does with middle school students rocks. I'm pretty stoked about the opportunity to hang out with some of my Summit friends. It's back to back with a mission trip I'm leading in Mexico, but I think I can work it out. Should know in a couple of weeks.
Youth Leaders Coach Board: We're on a mad dash to get ready for the board meeting on Monday and Tuesday. It's going to be incredible, but until then a whole lot of work.
On the Road: After that I'm on the road again with Jeanne, next weekend we're heading to the Unite Conference and then early next month to a conference in Battle Creek Michigan. I think that's where they make one of my favorite cereals ... Frosted Flakes. They're grrrrrrrrrrreat! I wrestled with going to Arkansas with her right after Thanksgiving. Her son, Josh, is hosting his first youth conference. Our brains run on the same channel and at the same speed, so I'd totally love to be there, but I want to be with my family more.
Podcast: youthleaderscoach.com Podcast is up and running on itunes. We've still got a few tweaks to work out with the name and search. I'm on the first and third episodes. I think I'm just now getting comfortable with it.
My Side Job: I lend a consulting hand in the Accounting department. I jumped back six years when I learned they run on Shelby. I could go on and on about databases. Every system I've ever worked with seriously lacked one thing ... a strong connecting of the designers with the daily users. Six years later it's like a flash back from Hades, I can't get the report that works in the format I need. I can get a report with the wrong numbers in the right format ... or I can get a report with the right numbers in the wrong format ... ugh! Fortunately, I don't have to resolve the problem but can tell them to get on the phone with Shelby and have them help figure it out. I love dabbling in accounting stuff, actually more the internal control and systems side, but I wouldn't want to live there.
Junior High Parents: My first meeting with a parent of two junior high students was today at lunch. It rocked! I dreamed the dream and cast vision for where I saw the junior high ministry going. The words I heard that rang loud in my ears were "I love it. Judy, I can tell you've been emersed in this awhile. How long did it take you to think of all of this?" and "Seriously, Judy, anything I can do to help make it happen let me know."
02 Groups: I'm watching the leaders of leaders get ready for the launch of 02 groups. Wow, they are passionate about it! They took it to a whole new level than I did with Eagle's Nest. There are full color binders with cool graphics and tokens everywhere! The momentum they're creating with this thing is very cool. I'm am sooo watching and learning.
Opportunities: My pal Sean over at Stuck in the Middle asked me to check out his next big event in Kansas City in March 08 to give him some feedback and lead a breakout session. The conference he does with middle school students rocks. I'm pretty stoked about the opportunity to hang out with some of my Summit friends. It's back to back with a mission trip I'm leading in Mexico, but I think I can work it out. Should know in a couple of weeks.
Youth Leaders Coach Board: We're on a mad dash to get ready for the board meeting on Monday and Tuesday. It's going to be incredible, but until then a whole lot of work.
On the Road: After that I'm on the road again with Jeanne, next weekend we're heading to the Unite Conference and then early next month to a conference in Battle Creek Michigan. I think that's where they make one of my favorite cereals ... Frosted Flakes. They're grrrrrrrrrrreat! I wrestled with going to Arkansas with her right after Thanksgiving. Her son, Josh, is hosting his first youth conference. Our brains run on the same channel and at the same speed, so I'd totally love to be there, but I want to be with my family more.
Podcast: youthleaderscoach.com Podcast is up and running on itunes. We've still got a few tweaks to work out with the name and search. I'm on the first and third episodes. I think I'm just now getting comfortable with it.
My Side Job: I lend a consulting hand in the Accounting department. I jumped back six years when I learned they run on Shelby. I could go on and on about databases. Every system I've ever worked with seriously lacked one thing ... a strong connecting of the designers with the daily users. Six years later it's like a flash back from Hades, I can't get the report that works in the format I need. I can get a report with the wrong numbers in the right format ... or I can get a report with the right numbers in the wrong format ... ugh! Fortunately, I don't have to resolve the problem but can tell them to get on the phone with Shelby and have them help figure it out. I love dabbling in accounting stuff, actually more the internal control and systems side, but I wouldn't want to live there.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Article - Mr. Clinehands Theology
I was asked to write another article for simply youth ministry or youthministry.com (they've kinda blended now, so don't know where it will appear). Here was my attempt...
Mr. Clinehands Theology
To this day I remember the water rocket contest my Sunday school teacher, Mr. Clinehands, held when I was in 6th grade. Whoever could launch the water rocket the furthest won a pair of skates. And, back in the day, that was a pretty big deal. Mr. Clinehinds didn’t choose to hold the competition at the church, but instead he'd set up a time to stop by our house so we could launch it in our own yard. He'd only stay about 15 minutes under the premise that he was there to simply watch and measure the launch.
A decade after entering youth ministry, I had an ah ha moment about Mr. Clinehands one day. I never thought of him as a youth ministry strategist, but I think that’s exactly what he was. I think Mr. Clinehands held the whole contest so that he could get a feel for what kind of home and parents his Sunday school kids had. It was the perfect "door opener" - parents didn't feel pressure, the kid didn't feel pressure and he didn't feel pressure.
Here are a couple principles in youth ministry that I think Mr. Clinehands figured out...
1. The potential for long-term impact skyrockets when you reach parents. We are better at impacting kids than parents because we're just naturally more comfortable with kids. However, if we can reach the parents too, our long-term impact on a kid dramatically increases.
2. Impacting the parents begins with meeting them. And, chances are you have to go to them, they're not going to come to you. The problem is that most of our leaders are scared to death of parents. The unspoken question is, "What do I say?" The water rocket serves like a Coke can when you're uncomfortable at a gathering. In some weird unexplainable way, we feel more comfortable hiding behind a little Coke can. In this situation, if the conversation doesn’t naturally jump start, you can just stare at the water rocket flying through the air.
3. Parents need you on their team. Parents need another voice telling their kids the exact same things they are telling them. Even if they aren't Christians and concerned with spiritual things, they know other people teaching their kids etiquette and morals is necessary. In an unconscious way, they can observe it when they hear you say things to their kid things like, "Let's pick up the pieces and put the hose back" after the launch. Hopefully, after you leave they have a private ah ha "I like this guy/girl. I think they can help me with my kid" moment.
4. Whether you impact the parents or not, you need them on your side. Typically, they won't be a champion of someone they don’t know. So, if you do it right, the more they know you, the more they'll trust you. As trust grows, their willingness to get their kid to where you are, like a small group or youth ministry, suddenly becomes more of a priority.
5. Finally, open lines of communication are essential in deepening relationships and, ultimately, affecting life change. Through it, you might actually get a glimpse of what's going on inside a parent’s and/or kid’s head and heart.
Mr. Clinehands Theology
To this day I remember the water rocket contest my Sunday school teacher, Mr. Clinehands, held when I was in 6th grade. Whoever could launch the water rocket the furthest won a pair of skates. And, back in the day, that was a pretty big deal. Mr. Clinehinds didn’t choose to hold the competition at the church, but instead he'd set up a time to stop by our house so we could launch it in our own yard. He'd only stay about 15 minutes under the premise that he was there to simply watch and measure the launch.
A decade after entering youth ministry, I had an ah ha moment about Mr. Clinehands one day. I never thought of him as a youth ministry strategist, but I think that’s exactly what he was. I think Mr. Clinehands held the whole contest so that he could get a feel for what kind of home and parents his Sunday school kids had. It was the perfect "door opener" - parents didn't feel pressure, the kid didn't feel pressure and he didn't feel pressure.
Here are a couple principles in youth ministry that I think Mr. Clinehands figured out...
1. The potential for long-term impact skyrockets when you reach parents. We are better at impacting kids than parents because we're just naturally more comfortable with kids. However, if we can reach the parents too, our long-term impact on a kid dramatically increases.
2. Impacting the parents begins with meeting them. And, chances are you have to go to them, they're not going to come to you. The problem is that most of our leaders are scared to death of parents. The unspoken question is, "What do I say?" The water rocket serves like a Coke can when you're uncomfortable at a gathering. In some weird unexplainable way, we feel more comfortable hiding behind a little Coke can. In this situation, if the conversation doesn’t naturally jump start, you can just stare at the water rocket flying through the air.
3. Parents need you on their team. Parents need another voice telling their kids the exact same things they are telling them. Even if they aren't Christians and concerned with spiritual things, they know other people teaching their kids etiquette and morals is necessary. In an unconscious way, they can observe it when they hear you say things to their kid things like, "Let's pick up the pieces and put the hose back" after the launch. Hopefully, after you leave they have a private ah ha "I like this guy/girl. I think they can help me with my kid" moment.
4. Whether you impact the parents or not, you need them on your side. Typically, they won't be a champion of someone they don’t know. So, if you do it right, the more they know you, the more they'll trust you. As trust grows, their willingness to get their kid to where you are, like a small group or youth ministry, suddenly becomes more of a priority.
5. Finally, open lines of communication are essential in deepening relationships and, ultimately, affecting life change. Through it, you might actually get a glimpse of what's going on inside a parent’s and/or kid’s head and heart.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Shhh, can you keep a secret?
I had one of my first junior high meeting this morning at the southern delicacy known as Waffle House (seriously, they are on every corner in Atlanta ... at least at every exit). I think it's going to become our Saturday morning meeting place. Four people ate for $20, I can do that.
Anyway, I am so stoked at the leadership that was at the table. Diverse as night and day, but powerful. This will be my first attempt at leading from behind the scenes. I have my hand in too many other things to do the work of the front person, but I'm pretty confident in my ability to direct and empower those I oversee. The only up front area I'm going to own in this thing is with parents.
Today, we planned all the events for 2007-2008 to give to parents when we hold our first parent meeting in October. Between now and then we'll brainstorm the topics we'll be discussing in Sunday school (yes, that beast exists down here at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday morning) to give to them as well. One thing I always wanted to do well at Granger was connect with parents. However, other things kept pressing in that I LET prevent me from doing it. This time around I've decided it is NON-NEGOTIABLE. In fact, my first lunch with a parent is this Wednesday (before I'd be having lunch with kids, not this time around, it's the parents I'm pursuing ... I'll let my leaders do the lunches with the students). Bottomline, the three things I'm committed to doing well are leadership training/mentoring, small groups and parents. Youth ministry-wise, I've decided there are things I'm willing to give up in order to relentlessly lead these three areas well. One huge thing I'm giving up is being the weekly up front leader, in particular teaching leader - that's a pretty big deal for me. I'm in the process of finding those killer teachers who can step into that role even now.
Don't tell anyone, but I'm setting a growth rate of 300% as my goal for junior high this year (don't be too impressed because the junior high numbers are low). My goal is to break off junior high from senior high by Fall 2008. I think we've got the plan and staff to do it ... easily. I'll be fine if we don't hit the numbers, but my heart is feeling it's a good target.
I'm loving the job, but please pray for wisdom as I navigate the many waters. Right now, I'm the direct report for six full-time people in three totally different departments, as well as for a number of MC students. Jeanne is having me serve as a middle layer of management so to speak on the Youth Leader's Coach side. While there are some issues that we need to work through, the beauty is that all the people are amazing. What they are doing drives them to get up in the morning, not to mention that they are just plain fun and funny, so that is making my life easier. I'm excited at the opportunity to speak into their lives and they are pretty excited to have someone to champion them. I plan on "championing" well.
Anyway, I am so stoked at the leadership that was at the table. Diverse as night and day, but powerful. This will be my first attempt at leading from behind the scenes. I have my hand in too many other things to do the work of the front person, but I'm pretty confident in my ability to direct and empower those I oversee. The only up front area I'm going to own in this thing is with parents.
Today, we planned all the events for 2007-2008 to give to parents when we hold our first parent meeting in October. Between now and then we'll brainstorm the topics we'll be discussing in Sunday school (yes, that beast exists down here at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday morning) to give to them as well. One thing I always wanted to do well at Granger was connect with parents. However, other things kept pressing in that I LET prevent me from doing it. This time around I've decided it is NON-NEGOTIABLE. In fact, my first lunch with a parent is this Wednesday (before I'd be having lunch with kids, not this time around, it's the parents I'm pursuing ... I'll let my leaders do the lunches with the students). Bottomline, the three things I'm committed to doing well are leadership training/mentoring, small groups and parents. Youth ministry-wise, I've decided there are things I'm willing to give up in order to relentlessly lead these three areas well. One huge thing I'm giving up is being the weekly up front leader, in particular teaching leader - that's a pretty big deal for me. I'm in the process of finding those killer teachers who can step into that role even now.
Don't tell anyone, but I'm setting a growth rate of 300% as my goal for junior high this year (don't be too impressed because the junior high numbers are low). My goal is to break off junior high from senior high by Fall 2008. I think we've got the plan and staff to do it ... easily. I'll be fine if we don't hit the numbers, but my heart is feeling it's a good target.
I'm loving the job, but please pray for wisdom as I navigate the many waters. Right now, I'm the direct report for six full-time people in three totally different departments, as well as for a number of MC students. Jeanne is having me serve as a middle layer of management so to speak on the Youth Leader's Coach side. While there are some issues that we need to work through, the beauty is that all the people are amazing. What they are doing drives them to get up in the morning, not to mention that they are just plain fun and funny, so that is making my life easier. I'm excited at the opportunity to speak into their lives and they are pretty excited to have someone to champion them. I plan on "championing" well.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
The Adventure Begins
What a great week and it's only Wednesday!
My sis is in town and we've had fun doing the IKEA, Gerogia Mall, Habachi and cruise through the city kind of stuff. We ate at Jason's after church on Sunday. It's a deli that is AMAZING! Then I recruited her to help the paid staff with some tokens for the opening night. Our woodburning extravaganza is a moment in time that I think I might be permently scared from. No, I didn't burn myself, but I did walk into the corner of a piece of sheet rock sitting on a cabinet about eye level. Needless to say, I have a nice gash on my nose between my eyes. Yes, it was pretty funny.
Saturday Morning
A big day! The first year MC students showed up. Looking over the crowd, I loved the fact that they have students here from every walk of life - rich, poor, athletes, beauty queens, thin, thick, tatooed and pierced. Jordan did an amazing job of making registration look easy. He pretty much is oozing with giftedness from administration to teaching.
Let the adventure begin...
Monday Night
95 Master's Commission students and staff loaded into vehicles for that "special" place Monday night. I'd describe more, but it's a secret. While there, Jeanne spoke for part of the time. Words can't express what she breathed into their hearts as she cast vision for the 07-08 year. She ended with four questions.
1. Are you more into SELF IMPROVEMENT or TRANSFORMATION? There's a big difference you know.
2. Most true inner-transformation begins with a call to LEAVE SOMETHING. What is Christ calling you to walk away from this year?
3. Transformation often happens more through our mistakes and failures than through our successess. How determined are you to "fail successfully" this year?
4. The inner journey of transformation will be a lifetime of one repeating question from Christ. DO YOU LOVE ME MORE? What will the honest answer of your heart be?
It was a night like no other, best experience with your sister sitting next to you.
The repeating thought that went through my mind was "what if?" What if every teenager across the nation had someone who spoke so boldly, in love, into their hearts as Jeanne did for the 85 students present. And, had someone to love and walk them through the messiness of their life. I think the world would be a different place.
Tuesday Night
We all took the train downtown and went to see STOMP at the Fox Theatre. No word was uttered from the stage for almost 2 hours, just sounds from the banging of brooms, trash cans, sticks, lighters and a few other miscellaneous things. It was incredible.
Wednesday Night
Dave taught tonight and hit a home run. Mike, Scott and Nick put my IKEA furniture together afterwords ... I'm grateful.
Here are some important people for me...
Pic 1 - Scotty and Mike, two of my favorite guys.
Pic 2 - Nick is against the door. He's my audio engineer for Youth Leader's Coach
Pic 3 - Cherry (in peach) is my Administrative Assistant. She's amazing. Not as amazing as Chris, but Chris would really like her ... and so would Mike (that is, if he were allowed). My junior high guy, Andrew, is also in the pic (guy way in the back on the left). He, Cheryl, Desiree and I are going to rip it up this year ... junior high style!
Pic 4 and 5 have Amy (blue shirt) and Hoi (stripped shirt) in them - They'll always hold a special place in my heart.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
My Day - The Master's Encounter
Who are these guys/girls!?! I'm watching the second and third year master's students rock the house. I figured out tonight that some of my most significant time with the Master's students is going to be the late night hours after Oxygen. I loved it. Three of them, one by one came in my office to just hang out and talk awhile - first James, then Jorge, then Ben. All talking youth ministry, asking questions, sharing dreams ... I can't even begin to describe how cool and sharp they are. Wow! I'm not sure what has transpired in their previous year or two in Master's, but it has transformed these guys. While each is sooooo very different, Jeanne's signature runs through their veins ... they get the importance of relationally connecting with those they encounter. It was evident as they told me how their night went with their 02 group.
Earlier today I dreamed with Andrew and Cheryl about transforming the junior high ministry. There are great kids in it, just not many ... at all. I realized talking junior high stuff still gets me fired up. Andrew is a big time strategist so we had a fun conversation, but far more importantly he has a huge passion for middle schoolers. Cheryl, on the other hand, is pure heart. One who will help put feet to other people's dreams, which is so very important to have on your team. Then my MC Administrative Assistant, Cherry, dove into doing some Cadre stuff for me. Not surprising, she knocked it out of the park. Seriously, where did these guys/girls come from!?!
Earlier today I dreamed with Andrew and Cheryl about transforming the junior high ministry. There are great kids in it, just not many ... at all. I realized talking junior high stuff still gets me fired up. Andrew is a big time strategist so we had a fun conversation, but far more importantly he has a huge passion for middle schoolers. Cheryl, on the other hand, is pure heart. One who will help put feet to other people's dreams, which is so very important to have on your team. Then my MC Administrative Assistant, Cherry, dove into doing some Cadre stuff for me. Not surprising, she knocked it out of the park. Seriously, where did these guys/girls come from!?!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
A Great Weekend - Baby and Baptism
Went to the baptism this weekend while I was home. What an amazing event! I know there was some different opinions about having it at the baseball field (people hate change). But personally, I loved it, loved it, loved it! Especially since you can kind of tie it into the whole rounding the Purpose Driven bases.
Some of my favorite photos are in the post below (the first one is of Hunter and Garrett stepping into the pool).
However, the real reason I was home was to see Josh, Dee and Baby Sarah. Oh my goodness was Sarah the cutest thing ever. I'm stilling trying to figure out how God fit all her organs and stuff into 5 lbs and 6 ounces. He's so creative like that.
Here she is admiring her aunt (seriously, click on the picture). Ok, maybe she was really thinking "who is this chick?" Take your pick, I say it's the former over the later, after all I am her "great" aunt. Then, I must not of been entertaining enough cause I put her to sleep. I love this baby girl!
Some of my favorite photos are in the post below (the first one is of Hunter and Garrett stepping into the pool).
However, the real reason I was home was to see Josh, Dee and Baby Sarah. Oh my goodness was Sarah the cutest thing ever. I'm stilling trying to figure out how God fit all her organs and stuff into 5 lbs and 6 ounces. He's so creative like that.
Here she is admiring her aunt (seriously, click on the picture). Ok, maybe she was really thinking "who is this chick?" Take your pick, I say it's the former over the later, after all I am her "great" aunt. Then, I must not of been entertaining enough cause I put her to sleep. I love this baby girl!
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