Tuesday, June 06, 2006
I caught a fish!
Judy can't catch them in Georgia or Colorado, but she can in good ol' Michigan. Here's the pic to prove it. The fact that it's only a quarter of an inch long does not negate the fact that I caught a fish!
Johnny's shocked (not really, I just liked the pic).
Hungry2Serve - Manowe
Hungry2Serve - Tyler
The New Recruits
Here's a pic of some of our incoming sixth grade students a couple of weeks ago. I got a chance to talk to quite a few. They're incredible!
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Second Greatest Commandment: Love Others Well
One of our students lost her mom to cancer this week. While I know my Oasis friend and her mom will one day be reunited in heaven for all eternity, I know she will feel the loss in days to come.
After a bunch of Oasis leaders went to the viewing, we were talking at Hacienda how to help our friend in the days to come. We came up with a pretty good plan and even put it on the calendar. If there is a lesson I've learned over and over again lately, it's "what gets put on the calendar is what gets done." If you don't put things on the calendar, one day just slips into the other and you are left with nothing but your good intentions. Good intentions won't get you where you want to go in life.
I am so proud of our leaders, numerous have called our friend and there were over a dozen of us who showed up at the funeral. If there is something I want students to catch at Oasis, it's how to love others well (second, of course, to the first commandment of loving God well). I'm committed to learning how to do that better in the coming days. I think sometimes in life we are afraid to because it means developing new relationships when we can't even maintain old ones well. We've got to sort through that and figure it out.
After a bunch of Oasis leaders went to the viewing, we were talking at Hacienda how to help our friend in the days to come. We came up with a pretty good plan and even put it on the calendar. If there is a lesson I've learned over and over again lately, it's "what gets put on the calendar is what gets done." If you don't put things on the calendar, one day just slips into the other and you are left with nothing but your good intentions. Good intentions won't get you where you want to go in life.
I am so proud of our leaders, numerous have called our friend and there were over a dozen of us who showed up at the funeral. If there is something I want students to catch at Oasis, it's how to love others well (second, of course, to the first commandment of loving God well). I'm committed to learning how to do that better in the coming days. I think sometimes in life we are afraid to because it means developing new relationships when we can't even maintain old ones well. We've got to sort through that and figure it out.
Barely Funny Jokes of the Day
Lois: Why did the firefly keep bumping into things?
Lola: I give up.
Lois: Becasue he wasn't very bright.
Clayton: What happens when you don't dust your mirror?
Clementine: Who knows?
Clayton: It gives you a dirty look.
Barnabas: What happened to the dog that swallowed the clock?
Bartholomew: My mind is blank.
Barnabas: He got a lot of ticks!
Lola: I give up.
Lois: Becasue he wasn't very bright.
Clayton: What happens when you don't dust your mirror?
Clementine: Who knows?
Clayton: It gives you a dirty look.
Barnabas: What happened to the dog that swallowed the clock?
Bartholomew: My mind is blank.
Barnabas: He got a lot of ticks!
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Some of the greatest youth pastors in the world
Friday, May 19, 2006
Estes to Atlanta
What an amazingly incredible whirlwind of a trip. Hung out with some amazing junior high youth pastors in Estes Park with some awesome discussion on the Gospel, then off to Atlanta for some more hang out time with, once again, some amazing youth pastors. The passion for teenagers in both places was off-the-chart. I love these types of gatherings with only 20-30 people. It beats the conferences of thousands hands down.
Tonight I'm off to Alabama to see two of my favorite people in all the world - Ben and Kristin. Won't be able to stay long, but it will be great to see them -- to pour into them, like I've been poured into over the last couple of days.
What a journey!
Tonight I'm off to Alabama to see two of my favorite people in all the world - Ben and Kristin. Won't be able to stay long, but it will be great to see them -- to pour into them, like I've been poured into over the last couple of days.
What a journey!
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Bullseye
Oops...Heather got a little too close. No problem, at least I have a nice view. If I had to get impaled somewhere, Estes Park would be a top pick.
Speaking of archery, camp is right around the corner. Did you sign-up yet?
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Pic from Estes Park
Ripped this pic off Marko's site. This is the view right outside our front door. That's the lake in which I had absolutely no luck catching any fish. I think they've caught on to the whole fake bait deal. However, the guys that were fly fishing were doing pretty good! As goofy as it sounds, I found spending time fishing to be a great time of reflection on life. These last couple of days have been an incredible time with Jesus, alongside some very amazing people with love middle school students as much as I do.
It was worth the trip!
Crazy, fun days. Left Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. for Atlanta. Rolled into my Atlanta hotel after only stopping to refuel at 6:30 a.m. All I wanted to do was sleep for three hours and get a hot shower before my 10:50 a.m. flight to Denver. At about 7:20 a.m. the transfomer blows and the electricity shuts off. Now I'm freaked out that I'm going to not wake up so make a quick call to mama to wake me. Took a shower in the dark, that was interesting. Read a book on the plane between 10 minutes naps and arrived in Denver.
Made the drive up to Estes Park with some incredibly cool youth pastors. Upon arrival, all I can say is WOW! It's gorgeous. Words can't even describe the view. So far, had some very interesting discussions on atonement and the gospel. Spent some time doing archery and fishing. Surrounded by great people, a great view and a whole lot of Elk, what more could you ask for! Estes Park Rocks!
Made the drive up to Estes Park with some incredibly cool youth pastors. Upon arrival, all I can say is WOW! It's gorgeous. Words can't even describe the view. So far, had some very interesting discussions on atonement and the gospel. Spent some time doing archery and fishing. Surrounded by great people, a great view and a whole lot of Elk, what more could you ask for! Estes Park Rocks!
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
PEACE
A heart at peace gives life to the body. Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)
Keep your heart in peace; let nothing in this world disturb it: everything has an end.
Saint John of the Cross
Jesus said, "I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 (NLT)
Keep your heart in peace; let nothing in this world disturb it: everything has an end.
Saint John of the Cross
Jesus said, "I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 (NLT)
A Wise Woman Once Said...
"Don't become so busy "doing" the works of God that you fail to spend time just "being" with Him. For when you spend too much time "doing" and not enough time "being," ego has no where to go except to rise to the top."
I've meditated on those words ever since I heard them on Thursday.
Here are a couple more thoughts on ego...
"God sends no one away empty except those who are full of themselves." Dwight L. Moody
"For those who would learn God's way, humility is the first thing, humility is the second, humility is the third." Saint Augustine of Hippo (I know, I thought the name was funny too)
Reverence for the Lord is an education in itself. You must be humble before you can ever receive honors. Proverbs 15:33 GNT
I've meditated on those words ever since I heard them on Thursday.
Here are a couple more thoughts on ego...
"God sends no one away empty except those who are full of themselves." Dwight L. Moody
"For those who would learn God's way, humility is the first thing, humility is the second, humility is the third." Saint Augustine of Hippo (I know, I thought the name was funny too)
Reverence for the Lord is an education in itself. You must be humble before you can ever receive honors. Proverbs 15:33 GNT
Monday, May 01, 2006
Luke 18:14 (The Message)
Jesus said, "If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face, but if you're content to be simply yourself, you will become more than yourself."
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Top Ten Things I learned this Weekend
1. Lori and Kurt Salierno are rockin' this world for Jesus in incredible ways. The closer I get to them, the more amazing I realize they truly are.
2. Lori has the gift of encouragement like my friend Jeanne Mayo. I want to learn and grow to be more like them in that area of my life. Once again, I realized that it's easier to be encouraging when you are around people that encourage you in specific, identifiable and genuine ways.
3. Students want to be transformed into Christs' likeness and one significant way they are transformed is through experiences. Lori did an awesome job of inspiring us with her words and stories this weekend, but Kurt transformed us by allowing us to experience homeless ministry in a downtown Atlanta park. While we need both inspiration and transformation, transformation is what students are hungry for. Almost unanimously in my van, students' most memorable moment this weekend was doing homeless ministry in the Atlanta park. The second highlight was climbing Stone Mountain. What do the two have in common, students got to experience (1) being the hands and feet of Jesus and (2) what God's creation looks like from the top of Stone Mountain they conquered by climbing. They didn't just hear about serving and God's creation, they experienced it for themselves.
4. When it comes to homeless ministry (actually, I think anybody)...
a. Introduce yourself by asking them their name, telling them yours and by shaking their hand (touch is important).
b. Learn their name and say it at least three times during the conversation (names are important).
c. Ask them about themselves because talking about yourself is everyone's favorite subject (conversations are important).
d. Ask them for one thing that you could pray for them for (prayer is important).
5. Everything really does take 2-3 times longer than you think it should - including bathroom breaks.
6. I've got kickin' cool female leaders and they are all unique in their own God given way.
7. I love middle school students, I love my job and I love my church.
8. I loved doing and experiencing ministry with my sister. She's really cool!
9. In downtown Atlanta:
a. If you're sleeping on the streets, don't sleep up against a wall. Rats have poor eyesight at night, so they scurry next to the walls.
b. There are more male than female prosititutes. They turn tricks for $5, so they can buy $7 worth of crack cocaine.
c. Stay on the sidewalks. You shouldn't walk in the grass at parks where there are a lot of homeless and drug addicts. Drug addicts can drop their needles in the grass and you could step on them. Kurt made those with open-toed shoes stay on the sidewalk.
d. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, there's a high probability you could run into Kurt Salierno walking the streets of Atlanta ministering to homeless people.
e. I learned where some of the runaway high school boys sleep on the streets.
10. Lori and Kurt's church does valet parking for moms with babies and pre-schoolers. That's fresh!
2. Lori has the gift of encouragement like my friend Jeanne Mayo. I want to learn and grow to be more like them in that area of my life. Once again, I realized that it's easier to be encouraging when you are around people that encourage you in specific, identifiable and genuine ways.
3. Students want to be transformed into Christs' likeness and one significant way they are transformed is through experiences. Lori did an awesome job of inspiring us with her words and stories this weekend, but Kurt transformed us by allowing us to experience homeless ministry in a downtown Atlanta park. While we need both inspiration and transformation, transformation is what students are hungry for. Almost unanimously in my van, students' most memorable moment this weekend was doing homeless ministry in the Atlanta park. The second highlight was climbing Stone Mountain. What do the two have in common, students got to experience (1) being the hands and feet of Jesus and (2) what God's creation looks like from the top of Stone Mountain they conquered by climbing. They didn't just hear about serving and God's creation, they experienced it for themselves.
4. When it comes to homeless ministry (actually, I think anybody)...
a. Introduce yourself by asking them their name, telling them yours and by shaking their hand (touch is important).
b. Learn their name and say it at least three times during the conversation (names are important).
c. Ask them about themselves because talking about yourself is everyone's favorite subject (conversations are important).
d. Ask them for one thing that you could pray for them for (prayer is important).
5. Everything really does take 2-3 times longer than you think it should - including bathroom breaks.
6. I've got kickin' cool female leaders and they are all unique in their own God given way.
7. I love middle school students, I love my job and I love my church.
8. I loved doing and experiencing ministry with my sister. She's really cool!
9. In downtown Atlanta:
a. If you're sleeping on the streets, don't sleep up against a wall. Rats have poor eyesight at night, so they scurry next to the walls.
b. There are more male than female prosititutes. They turn tricks for $5, so they can buy $7 worth of crack cocaine.
c. Stay on the sidewalks. You shouldn't walk in the grass at parks where there are a lot of homeless and drug addicts. Drug addicts can drop their needles in the grass and you could step on them. Kurt made those with open-toed shoes stay on the sidewalk.
d. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, there's a high probability you could run into Kurt Salierno walking the streets of Atlanta ministering to homeless people.
e. I learned where some of the runaway high school boys sleep on the streets.
10. Lori and Kurt's church does valet parking for moms with babies and pre-schoolers. That's fresh!
Monday, April 24, 2006
Inspired and Transformed
Wow! What a weekend.
Thursday afternoon: Drove 9 hours to Nashville (should be 7.5, but 29 people and bathrooms, no need to say more)
Friday: Drove the rest of the way to Atlanta
Stopped and had some great eats and fun at Dave and Busters
Did a quick tour of MLK Jr. Historical Site
Did four hours of street ministry with Kurt Salierno (one word: transformed)
Saturday: Eight hour conference with Lori Salierno (one word: inspired)
Climbed Stone Mountain
Watched the light show (actually, 27 of us watched the light show - Jeanna and I went to Wally World for dinner food)
Sunday: Breakfast with Lori Salierno
13 hour drive home from Atlanta to GCC
Thursday afternoon: Drove 9 hours to Nashville (should be 7.5, but 29 people and bathrooms, no need to say more)
Friday: Drove the rest of the way to Atlanta
Stopped and had some great eats and fun at Dave and Busters
Did a quick tour of MLK Jr. Historical Site
Did four hours of street ministry with Kurt Salierno (one word: transformed)
Saturday: Eight hour conference with Lori Salierno (one word: inspired)
Climbed Stone Mountain
Watched the light show (actually, 27 of us watched the light show - Jeanna and I went to Wally World for dinner food)
Sunday: Breakfast with Lori Salierno
13 hour drive home from Atlanta to GCC
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Last Wednesday Night - A Night to Remember
Last Wednesday I'll remember for a really long time. It was a great night at the Cross. Here are some of the words students wrote to Jesus.
Jesus, I give you all I am – my sins, my scars, my life.
I believe in you. Take away my sins.
I believe in you Jesus. You are my Savior.
I give you my life.
I need you. Help me figure out my next step.
Thanks you Jesus for holding me in your love.
Jesus, I give you my life. I love you.
Take all of my sins away and give me a clean slate. I am sorry.
My next step is to bring friends to church and Oasis.
My next step is to stay pure and follow your path.
I need you in my life Jesus. Forgive me for my sins.
You’re my savior Jesus. You made me and you bought me.
My next step is to volunteer in some way for Jesus.
My next step is to lead or be in a Bible study.
I give you my fear.
I want you in my life.
I give you my desires and wants.
Jesus, I’m sorry for when I was not listening to you Lord. I love you Jesus.
Lord, I give you my relationships.
Help me with my attitude.
I give you my life, everything – my friends, family and soul.
Jesus, I give you my heart.
I’m ready to serve you Jesus.
Lord, help me to know what I’m supposed to do next in my life.
I want to grow more in you. Forgive me for all the stupid mistakes I’ve made.
I want to trust you and put you above all my relationships.
Jesus, you lead me.
Jesus, you are my leader.
Jesus, please help me to keep following you and to serve you more.
Jesus, I want you to be my savior. I know I’m messed up and I want your help.
I believe in you Jesus. My next step is to invest in someone.
I love you Jesus.
I give you my life and my sin and my love.
I believe in you Jesus! The mission trip is my next step.
I need you. I give you my social life and my fears too.
Thank you Jesus for being my Lord.
God I need help to get along with my peers and family members.
You know what my problems are Lord, help me with them.
Please be the center of my life Jesus. I’ve already accepted you, but I want to make my next tep toward you Jesus.
Lord, I believe in you and give you my regrets.
Jesus Rocks!
I’m going to declare my BattleCry! I believe in you, Jesus.
I give you my doubt, fear and profanity.
My next step is to invest and invite.
My next step is to tell everyone about how much I love you.
Jesus, I give you my myspace and bad music.
I believe in you Jesus. Help me focus on you!
I give you my impure thoughts.
I think I need to serve you more and not devote so much time to my social life.
Pray for me getting in trouble at school.
I give you my boyfriend who is not a Christian.
My next step is to help other people get closer to you.
I give you porn.
I give you my actions.
My next step is to invite more people and to tell them about you.
Help me to get over some anger problems and control what I say.
Jesus, help me to obey you more, because I love you and I don’t want to fall away from you.
I need to obey my parents the first time they tell me to.
I think I need to take time to talk to you more instead of just praying for help!
I give you my suicidal thoughts.
I believe in you Jesus! My first step is to treat people better and to change my language.
I want you to be first in my life.
I need to get rid of all of my bad CD’s.
I give you my schedule.
Jesus, I’m laying down my sin.
Jesus, I want you to guide me in what direction you want me to go.
I want you to govern my life!
My next step is to get baptized.
Lord, I give you my ENTIRE life. I want to fight for you and stop the corruption in this world!
I believe in you. Help me with my language, my music, and my friends.
I give you the things that are consuming my time.
Jesus, I give you my computer.
My next step God is to lean in and take responsibility and learn about you.
Lord, I give you my life! I screwed it up. I want to serve and love you.
I will stop calling people names and start sharing your love.
I believe in you Jesus. I need more of you in my life.
I give you the hurt that came to me when someone else sinned.
I lay selfishness at the cross
I believe in you Jesus. I want you to be with me my whole life.
I have been thinking of guys and friends more than you. I am sorry.
I need to throw my make-up away. I need to be myself.
I believe in you God, but sin is pulling me back. So God, please help me break away and go with you.
I’m going to ask someone to come to church and not take no for an answer. I need to make better decisions. I’m going to become better than now.
I want my next step to be towards doing children’s ministry.
Jesus, I give you my struggle with never being satisfied.
My next step: Invite over 5 people to Oasis.
I have accepted you, but I am very sinful. I walk with you, but I’m falling off course. Take that sin off my heart and help me focus on you, oh God.
I believe in you Jesus and love you with all I have! I trust you with my life. I’ll serve you in any way, whatever you say. I’m sorry Lord for all that I’ve done. Luv ya!
Thank you Jesus. Anything that separates me from you I lay down.
Lord, help me with my life cause I hate it.
Dear Lord, I want you to become the Lord in my life. I need help because I’m being held back by my attitude. Please help me.
Jesus, I lay my heart down to you! I want you to be my Lord not just my Savior. My next step in Christ is reading the Bible, inviting my friends to church, and coming closer to you rather than my friends. I think it’s time for you to help me wash away my sins.
Jesus I believe in you, but I need to obey you more.
Jesus, I surrender all my worries, doubts, questions, uncertainties and fears. I want to trust and obey you. You already paid for it all. I don’t want to take it back.
Dozens of cards, with the simple phrase…
I believe in you Jesus.
Jesus, I give you all I am – my sins, my scars, my life.
I believe in you. Take away my sins.
I believe in you Jesus. You are my Savior.
I give you my life.
I need you. Help me figure out my next step.
Thanks you Jesus for holding me in your love.
Jesus, I give you my life. I love you.
Take all of my sins away and give me a clean slate. I am sorry.
My next step is to bring friends to church and Oasis.
My next step is to stay pure and follow your path.
I need you in my life Jesus. Forgive me for my sins.
You’re my savior Jesus. You made me and you bought me.
My next step is to volunteer in some way for Jesus.
My next step is to lead or be in a Bible study.
I give you my fear.
I want you in my life.
I give you my desires and wants.
Jesus, I’m sorry for when I was not listening to you Lord. I love you Jesus.
Lord, I give you my relationships.
Help me with my attitude.
I give you my life, everything – my friends, family and soul.
Jesus, I give you my heart.
I’m ready to serve you Jesus.
Lord, help me to know what I’m supposed to do next in my life.
I want to grow more in you. Forgive me for all the stupid mistakes I’ve made.
I want to trust you and put you above all my relationships.
Jesus, you lead me.
Jesus, you are my leader.
Jesus, please help me to keep following you and to serve you more.
Jesus, I want you to be my savior. I know I’m messed up and I want your help.
I believe in you Jesus. My next step is to invest in someone.
I love you Jesus.
I give you my life and my sin and my love.
I believe in you Jesus! The mission trip is my next step.
I need you. I give you my social life and my fears too.
Thank you Jesus for being my Lord.
God I need help to get along with my peers and family members.
You know what my problems are Lord, help me with them.
Please be the center of my life Jesus. I’ve already accepted you, but I want to make my next tep toward you Jesus.
Lord, I believe in you and give you my regrets.
Jesus Rocks!
I’m going to declare my BattleCry! I believe in you, Jesus.
I give you my doubt, fear and profanity.
My next step is to invest and invite.
My next step is to tell everyone about how much I love you.
Jesus, I give you my myspace and bad music.
I believe in you Jesus. Help me focus on you!
I give you my impure thoughts.
I think I need to serve you more and not devote so much time to my social life.
Pray for me getting in trouble at school.
I give you my boyfriend who is not a Christian.
My next step is to help other people get closer to you.
I give you porn.
I give you my actions.
My next step is to invite more people and to tell them about you.
Help me to get over some anger problems and control what I say.
Jesus, help me to obey you more, because I love you and I don’t want to fall away from you.
I need to obey my parents the first time they tell me to.
I think I need to take time to talk to you more instead of just praying for help!
I give you my suicidal thoughts.
I believe in you Jesus! My first step is to treat people better and to change my language.
I want you to be first in my life.
I need to get rid of all of my bad CD’s.
I give you my schedule.
Jesus, I’m laying down my sin.
Jesus, I want you to guide me in what direction you want me to go.
I want you to govern my life!
My next step is to get baptized.
Lord, I give you my ENTIRE life. I want to fight for you and stop the corruption in this world!
I believe in you. Help me with my language, my music, and my friends.
I give you the things that are consuming my time.
Jesus, I give you my computer.
My next step God is to lean in and take responsibility and learn about you.
Lord, I give you my life! I screwed it up. I want to serve and love you.
I will stop calling people names and start sharing your love.
I believe in you Jesus. I need more of you in my life.
I give you the hurt that came to me when someone else sinned.
I lay selfishness at the cross
I believe in you Jesus. I want you to be with me my whole life.
I have been thinking of guys and friends more than you. I am sorry.
I need to throw my make-up away. I need to be myself.
I believe in you God, but sin is pulling me back. So God, please help me break away and go with you.
I’m going to ask someone to come to church and not take no for an answer. I need to make better decisions. I’m going to become better than now.
I want my next step to be towards doing children’s ministry.
Jesus, I give you my struggle with never being satisfied.
My next step: Invite over 5 people to Oasis.
I have accepted you, but I am very sinful. I walk with you, but I’m falling off course. Take that sin off my heart and help me focus on you, oh God.
I believe in you Jesus and love you with all I have! I trust you with my life. I’ll serve you in any way, whatever you say. I’m sorry Lord for all that I’ve done. Luv ya!
Thank you Jesus. Anything that separates me from you I lay down.
Lord, help me with my life cause I hate it.
Dear Lord, I want you to become the Lord in my life. I need help because I’m being held back by my attitude. Please help me.
Jesus, I lay my heart down to you! I want you to be my Lord not just my Savior. My next step in Christ is reading the Bible, inviting my friends to church, and coming closer to you rather than my friends. I think it’s time for you to help me wash away my sins.
Jesus I believe in you, but I need to obey you more.
Jesus, I surrender all my worries, doubts, questions, uncertainties and fears. I want to trust and obey you. You already paid for it all. I don’t want to take it back.
Dozens of cards, with the simple phrase…
I believe in you Jesus.
Mary Slessor Rocked
Mary Slessor...all I can say is WOW! When I was in New Hampshire at Gail MacDonald's house last year with some fellow GCC'ers, she mentioned that we should read about Mary Slessor. So, while it took a couple of months to get to it, I read a biography on Mary Slessor in honor of Gail coming to speak at the women's retreat next week.
Mary was a Scottish missionary to those who lived in and near Calabar (Nigeria) Africa in the 1800's. She was fearless to say the least. She wasn't afraid to go up against a gang swinging a razor blade in her face or people groups deep into witchcraft. She was known as the white "ma". Among other things, she battled maleria, witchcraft and primative conditions to spread God's Word in areas no other missionaries dared to venture. What a hero of the faith.
Mary was a Scottish missionary to those who lived in and near Calabar (Nigeria) Africa in the 1800's. She was fearless to say the least. She wasn't afraid to go up against a gang swinging a razor blade in her face or people groups deep into witchcraft. She was known as the white "ma". Among other things, she battled maleria, witchcraft and primative conditions to spread God's Word in areas no other missionaries dared to venture. What a hero of the faith.
Accountability and Stubborness - What a Pair
It's after midnight and I just got back from Roxanne's house. She is an amazing, long-time friend of mine who has been my prayer partner for over a decade. How amazing is that! She's got my back...big time! We've prayed for anything and everything. God has been faithful time and time again. I wish I had time to tell you about all the answers to prayer we've received. There are times we've been faithful to get together every week, while others times life gets so hectic it's only once a month. We could have given up, but we didn't. We're both too stubborn for that.
Ruby is another friend of mine who is absolutely incredible. We have been memorizing scripture together. She's tackling Ephesians and I'm tackling John. We've almost got the first chapter down. I'm so stinkin' proud of her. Initially we were going to memorize five verses a week, but failed miserably at it. So we decided just to do the best that we could, even if it's only a verse or two a week. We could have given up, but we didn't. We're both too stubborn for that.
Karen, Wendy, Loretta and Carole are other friends of mine. They're off-the-chart. We decided to do the Old Testament Challenge together a year or so ago. We got behind about about week two. We could have given up, but we didn't. We're all too stubborn for that. A year and a half later, we're through the whole Bible and began round two a couple of weeks ago.
It might sound like I'm braggin' a bit, but I'm really not. I've found in my life that without accountability, I'm a loser when it comes to being consistant at anything. I need people in my life to keep me on track, but not just any people. I need people who are too stubborn to quit and, while we might have to adjust the goal a bit, will keep at it.
Thank you Roxanne, Ruby, Karen, Wendy, Loretta, Carole... and the newest member Chantelle. Without you, my reading of the Bible, memorization of Scripture and prayer life would not be what it is today. Next to Jesus, you are my rocks.
Ruby is another friend of mine who is absolutely incredible. We have been memorizing scripture together. She's tackling Ephesians and I'm tackling John. We've almost got the first chapter down. I'm so stinkin' proud of her. Initially we were going to memorize five verses a week, but failed miserably at it. So we decided just to do the best that we could, even if it's only a verse or two a week. We could have given up, but we didn't. We're both too stubborn for that.
Karen, Wendy, Loretta and Carole are other friends of mine. They're off-the-chart. We decided to do the Old Testament Challenge together a year or so ago. We got behind about about week two. We could have given up, but we didn't. We're all too stubborn for that. A year and a half later, we're through the whole Bible and began round two a couple of weeks ago.
It might sound like I'm braggin' a bit, but I'm really not. I've found in my life that without accountability, I'm a loser when it comes to being consistant at anything. I need people in my life to keep me on track, but not just any people. I need people who are too stubborn to quit and, while we might have to adjust the goal a bit, will keep at it.
Thank you Roxanne, Ruby, Karen, Wendy, Loretta, Carole... and the newest member Chantelle. Without you, my reading of the Bible, memorization of Scripture and prayer life would not be what it is today. Next to Jesus, you are my rocks.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Patrick - WOW!
What do you do when a high school student has a dream? Let him run with it ... and run with it he did. Patrick Hester had a dream of pulling together Oasis students for some flag football extravaganza. Saturday was the first day of the teams coming together for some game time. The players were great, the coaches awesome and the fans supportive. It was a great day blessed with beautiful weather. Thank you Jesus for a young man's dream and the courage he had to pursue it.
Easter Celebration
Some of the eighth grade leaders gathered on Friday, their day off, to create Easter Baskets for kids at the women's shelter. Karen and Laura orchestrated the event and 48 baskets later they were delivered with TLC. You put smiles on the faces of four dozen kids this Easter and told them about Jesus with your cards and letters. I'm so proud of you.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Who Will You Speak Life Into Today?
Today ... and every day ... I believe God puts someone in your life for you to speak into. The reality is that eveyone you encounter needs encouragement and a lot of it. Silently we struggle with our own insecurities, resulting from wounds of the past, lies of the enemy and our own inadequacies. Recently, I've realized that often times when we don't get enough encouragement, we don't give enough.
Yesterday I received an email from one of my all-time heroes in Atlanta (along with Mark, Rob, Dr. Bob, all my leaders who serve so faithfully week after week, Richard Crisco and a few others). I've never met anyone who genuinely loves - or at least EXPRESSES love - better than this individual. I want to be like them.
They wrote me these words yesterday.
You are absolutely a woman in your own league!!! One of the greatest things that has come from the _____ is getting to know you!!!
I can’t tell you how much it means to have you in my life. Thank you for the extraordinary ideas...and for loving me.
Much Love and Excited to See You!
This person has absolutely no idea how they breathed life into me with their words after an extremely wonderful, but very long week.
Yesterday I received an email from one of my all-time heroes in Atlanta (along with Mark, Rob, Dr. Bob, all my leaders who serve so faithfully week after week, Richard Crisco and a few others). I've never met anyone who genuinely loves - or at least EXPRESSES love - better than this individual. I want to be like them.
They wrote me these words yesterday.
You are absolutely a woman in your own league!!! One of the greatest things that has come from the _____ is getting to know you!!!
I can’t tell you how much it means to have you in my life. Thank you for the extraordinary ideas...and for loving me.
Much Love and Excited to See You!
This person has absolutely no idea how they breathed life into me with their words after an extremely wonderful, but very long week.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Blog-o-rama Coming This Weekend
Wow...what a ride...since Friday, I've put in 108 hours. That's 18 hours a day, six days straight. I'm calling time out this weekend! I'll catch the blog up on the six days of adventure this weekend. I can't even begin to explain all the God moments at ATF in Detroit on Friday & Saturday, in Gulport MS on Monday, at the mission team meeting on Tuesday and Oasis on Wednesday. It was a great 108 hours. GOD is truly AMAZING.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
The BattleCry
Less than 48 hours...let the trumpets sound!
BattleCry, Ford Field, Detroit, MI
60 GCC middle school leaders and students among tens of thousands!
My heart pounds within me, I cannot keep silent. For I have heard the sound of the trumpet; I have heard the battle cry.
Jeremiah 4:19
BattleCry, Ford Field, Detroit, MI
60 GCC middle school leaders and students among tens of thousands!
My heart pounds within me, I cannot keep silent. For I have heard the sound of the trumpet; I have heard the battle cry.
Jeremiah 4:19
No Time to Even Breathe
Wow! I thought that this week would be an easy week since there's no Oasis tonight. Boy, was I wrong...running as fast as ever. This weekend is ATF's BattleCry in Detoit...should be an amazing event, but figuring out the food situation in a big city has been a royal pain. Tuesday is the mission trip meeting...pray that we get the final details in time. I lost my Camp Adventure potential counselor file when my hard drive burned up two weeks ago. I'm trying to recreate it...yikes! We'll keep pressin' forward for God will make a way.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
The Amazing Race
And we're off...
Last week we began the Amazing Race Series (great title John Keim)! It's five weeks of focusing on the top five things the church is going to be all about over the coming months.
Invest and Invite - It's about the Checkered Flag
Do the Next Right Thing - Watch your GPS
Have a Friend, Be a Friend - Need a Pit Stop
Serve Once a Month - Road Crew Ahead
Read Your Bible - Time to Refuel
Last week we began the Amazing Race Series (great title John Keim)! It's five weeks of focusing on the top five things the church is going to be all about over the coming months.
Invest and Invite - It's about the Checkered Flag
Do the Next Right Thing - Watch your GPS
Have a Friend, Be a Friend - Need a Pit Stop
Serve Once a Month - Road Crew Ahead
Read Your Bible - Time to Refuel
Critical Mind vs. Critical Heart
Which one do you have?
...One will catipult you foward and the other one will destroy you.
...One will catipult you foward and the other one will destroy you.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Good Times
Got back from Cali last week...it was AMAZING. Basically, in a nutshell...it was six days of great friends, football and beach volleyball, as well as a great conference. Thanks Seth, Josiah, Jeremy P., Jeremy L., Ruby, Jeanna, Carole, Naomi and Jerica for saying yes and taking a week out of your life to learn how to better invest in students! You're amazing...you are some of my greatest heroes!
While we were there we checked out a pretty amazing church called Rock Harbor. It had this ancient future thing going on that was pretty cool. Based on the number of twenty somethings attending, it must seem pretty cool to them as well. After the service was over, we also got to witness a 2 1/2 year old drummer (yep, you read correctly, he's only 2 1/2 and could keep a beat)! Pretty incredible!
While we were there we checked out a pretty amazing church called Rock Harbor. It had this ancient future thing going on that was pretty cool. Based on the number of twenty somethings attending, it must seem pretty cool to them as well. After the service was over, we also got to witness a 2 1/2 year old drummer (yep, you read correctly, he's only 2 1/2 and could keep a beat)! Pretty incredible!
Monday, March 20, 2006
It's been way too long
Wow, life has been flying by at such a crazy, crazy pace...so fast, that there's been no time for bloggin'. You know it's been too long when you can't remember your own password. However, I am officially back.
Tonight, as I prepared for our Student Ministry 101 workshop tomorrow, I listened to Casting Pearls play for Lifeline...good tunes, good tunes (ok, that was a play off of Hilary and Amanda always saying good times...good times). Anyway, they were awesome and you won't want to miss them this week at Oasis. They will be here along with Crystal Miller, a Columbine survivor. She has an amazing story and is passionate about Jesus. What more could you ask for...a great band and an amazing, transforming story. Check them out and bring your friends.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Friday, February 17, 2006
Monday, February 13, 2006
In your anger do not sin...
"In your anger do not sin..."
Ephesians 4:26
Sometimes I wonder whether I'm preaching to middle school students or myself. I've been talking about anger at Oasis. How it's your natural sinful tendancy to push/hit back, when someone pushes/hits you...and how it's no different when it comes to words. When someone verbally lashes out at you or someone you care about, you want to verbally lash back. I had one of those opportunities last week. One of those instances where I wanted to say "game on". But then, I remembered what I tried to speak into students just two days prior, so I didn't. It was hard, but I know I chose rightly. I know that no one ever wins in those situations. I'm still a little ticked, but I know it'll pass. In light of eternity and the Kingdom work that needs to be done, it's ridiculous to waste any time or energy on.
Ephesians 4:26
Sometimes I wonder whether I'm preaching to middle school students or myself. I've been talking about anger at Oasis. How it's your natural sinful tendancy to push/hit back, when someone pushes/hits you...and how it's no different when it comes to words. When someone verbally lashes out at you or someone you care about, you want to verbally lash back. I had one of those opportunities last week. One of those instances where I wanted to say "game on". But then, I remembered what I tried to speak into students just two days prior, so I didn't. It was hard, but I know I chose rightly. I know that no one ever wins in those situations. I'm still a little ticked, but I know it'll pass. In light of eternity and the Kingdom work that needs to be done, it's ridiculous to waste any time or energy on.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
I almost didn't go - that would have been sad
Louie Giglio
If you weren't at the Chris Tomlin - Louie Giglio - Matt Redman deal at the Morris Civic tonight, you missed out...big time! Wow! Seriously...Wow! I had already seen the show in Grand Rapids, but it wasn't anything like seeing it at the Morris Civic. The Morris Civic was so much cooler. First of all, worshipping in the Morris gave me a glimpse of what it will be like to worship in heaven. The architecture...or whatever you call that intricate detail on the walls...surrounding us was heavenly. Second, we had a much better view of the stage. Third, having Josiah and his sister right behind me made it all the more better. They are worshippers and they are hilariously fun! Finally, it was cool to share the experience with a dozen or so Oasis leaders, along with a boatload of GCC staff. That too reminds me of what heaven will be like.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Walk with me question of the day #6 - James 3 & 4
James 3 & 4 are full of some great stuff, especially about taming the tongue. Below are two of many great verses.
With the _______ we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.
James 3:9-10
Submit yourselves, then, to God. _______ the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:7-8
Post or email me at jgregory@gccwired.com your answers.
With the _______ we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.
James 3:9-10
Submit yourselves, then, to God. _______ the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:7-8
Post or email me at jgregory@gccwired.com your answers.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
It is Finished
A moment of celebration. Months and months and months and months ago, a few friends and I began the journey through the Bible when GCC was doing the "Old Testament Challenge". Well, as of yesterday, we officially made it through the entire Bible. Here are a few highlights...
Favorite Verse: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (still dig second half of 1 Samuel 17:26, 1 Samuel 17:45, Proverbs, 18:21 and 2 Chronicles 16:9)
Favorite Testament: Old
Favorite Character Besides Jesus: Hands down, still David (although Ezra was pretty cool)
New Understanding:
1. Book of Hosea
2. Judah (tribes of Judah and Benjamin) vs. Israel (other tribes)
3. Adam's sin and it's effect to this day
Still Confusing: Revelation
Bible Summarized in Two Words: Remember Me
Book of the Bible I'm working on memorizing: John
Favorite Place to have Bible Study: Karens (she feeds us really well, it's usually the one and only home-cooked meal of the week)
What's next you might ask? Genesis! We're beginning Round 2, only this time we're studying the Bible chronologically.
Thanks Karen, Loretta, Wendy and Carole. I love going through life and the Bible with you!
Favorite Verse: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (still dig second half of 1 Samuel 17:26, 1 Samuel 17:45, Proverbs, 18:21 and 2 Chronicles 16:9)
Favorite Testament: Old
Favorite Character Besides Jesus: Hands down, still David (although Ezra was pretty cool)
New Understanding:
1. Book of Hosea
2. Judah (tribes of Judah and Benjamin) vs. Israel (other tribes)
3. Adam's sin and it's effect to this day
Still Confusing: Revelation
Bible Summarized in Two Words: Remember Me
Book of the Bible I'm working on memorizing: John
Favorite Place to have Bible Study: Karens (she feeds us really well, it's usually the one and only home-cooked meal of the week)
What's next you might ask? Genesis! We're beginning Round 2, only this time we're studying the Bible chronologically.
Thanks Karen, Loretta, Wendy and Carole. I love going through life and the Bible with you!
Friday, February 03, 2006
Walk with me question of the day #5 - James 1 & 2
Great job...Over a dozen of you finished up Hebrews with me...now, after a brief pause, we're on to the book of James. The book was written by James, Jesus' brother, who was considered to be a pillar in the church (Galatians 2:9).
All of chapter one is worthy of memorizing, but there is one particular verse I love...
Do not merely _______ to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
James 1:22
Chapter two talks about how Abraham was called God's friend...very cool!
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ________, is dead.
James 2:17
All of chapter one is worthy of memorizing, but there is one particular verse I love...
Do not merely _______ to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
James 1:22
Chapter two talks about how Abraham was called God's friend...very cool!
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ________, is dead.
James 2:17
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Share the Love
Helping people take their next step toward Christ...together...no, seriously, together! That would be a cool mission statement for churches around the world as a whole. Trinity Church expressed that in a very real way this weekend when they lent our students their skatepark.
Someone with a "scarcity" mindset would say, "Why do that?"..."What if they break it?"..."If they don't break it, at the very least they will add to the wear and tear!"
Those with an "abundance" mindset would say, "Wow, what a great statement we would be making to the world if we shared our stuff with another church"..."What if one of those skater students who might not of had any great Christian skater friends before, really connects with one over those short couple of hours?"..."What if as a result of this event, one of them comes to know Jesus?"... "Wow, now that's a risk work taking, a risk greater than wear and tear!" Thanks Trinity.
In turn, Oasis tried to express that when we lent Five Star our Luau stuff for their kick-off. As I know Five Star will do with their stuff as well. Pay it Forward Baby!
Bloggin' for Jesus
She's only 10 and she get's it. On her blogspot, my young friend Kira has the ABC's to becoming a Christian (undoubtably something she's learned in Mrs. Sheila's class), talks about how cool church is and expresses her concern for her friend who needs Jesus. She also responds to the "Walk with me questions" in Hebrews. In her own little way she exhibits 3 of 5 GCC Wins: "Invests and Invites", "Have a Friend, Be a Friend" and "Read your Bible". What a reader worthy blog my young friend has.
I've been reflecting on bloggin' lately and have lots of questions. Is it really worth the time...is it making a difference...is it worthy of you taking time out of your life to read...am I bloggin' just to have blogged? Many bloggin' friends have dropped out of the bloggin' world. Does that mean the answer was more often "no" than "yes"? If "all staff" emails costs $25, how much does clickin' and readin' everyones blog cost a corporation / organization / church? How much of my life is evaporating away as I read a bunch of mindless garbage to get to the nuggets? While I really like the nuggets and I really like getting updates on peoples lives and I really like telling the stories...at what expense or who's expense? Lots of questions with very few answers...I'm good at that. I'm gonna keep on bloggin', but just try to make more of an effort to make sure it's reader worthy.
I've been reflecting on bloggin' lately and have lots of questions. Is it really worth the time...is it making a difference...is it worthy of you taking time out of your life to read...am I bloggin' just to have blogged? Many bloggin' friends have dropped out of the bloggin' world. Does that mean the answer was more often "no" than "yes"? If "all staff" emails costs $25, how much does clickin' and readin' everyones blog cost a corporation / organization / church? How much of my life is evaporating away as I read a bunch of mindless garbage to get to the nuggets? While I really like the nuggets and I really like getting updates on peoples lives and I really like telling the stories...at what expense or who's expense? Lots of questions with very few answers...I'm good at that. I'm gonna keep on bloggin', but just try to make more of an effort to make sure it's reader worthy.
The Demolition Team
You want to put a huge smile on the face of a middle school guy...or girl? Give them a hammer and tell them to take a whack at the wall. It's like the pinata to beat all pinatas. Some of our Oasis students and leaders put the hammer to the wall at Manowe last week. Manowe is renovating their gym into a conference center that will fit a couple of hundred people. It will be very cool. Thanks to Jim and Eric for allowing us to be a part of renovating the room that will be used to reach hundreds, perhaps even thousands, for Jesus.
You want to put a huge smile on the face of Judy? Show her one of the critters found in the rafters...a bat. Don't worry, it was dead...I think. 
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Learn the Art of Frog Kissing
Jeanne Mayo talks about "Learning the Art of Frog Kissing" a lot. It means learning how to see past the warts (the junk) in people and recognize their potential...not necessarily who they are, but who they can become. I love that phrase.
After I talked about it at Oasis, Chrissy and Jason's Simnick's daughter was caught on camera practicing it...literally!
Monday, January 16, 2006
Walk With Me Questions of the Day #4
Hebrews 12:1-3 ROCK and are worth memorizing. Memorize them and it's worth a free dinner at the Oasis cafe (piece of pizza, chips, pop/water and desert of your choosing). Considering the witnesses they are probably referring to are the heroes of the faith talked about in Hebrews 11, that is way cool. They've handed off the baton to us! Zowee! How well are you running your leg of the race (no need to respond, just something to ponder)? I'm doing ok, but desire to do so much better.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Hebrews 13:2-3
There were a lot of great verses in those two chapters, stuff we don't necessarily like to hear about but desperately need to (ex. discipline, bitterness, living under authority, etc.), most of which we know. However, it's one thing to know God's Word and totally another to be transformed by it. That's my prayer, that we'll both be transformed as you "Walk with me".
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Hebrews 13:2-3
There were a lot of great verses in those two chapters, stuff we don't necessarily like to hear about but desperately need to (ex. discipline, bitterness, living under authority, etc.), most of which we know. However, it's one thing to know God's Word and totally another to be transformed by it. That's my prayer, that we'll both be transformed as you "Walk with me".
Walk With Me Questions of the Day #3
Hey friends, sorry for the delay. I took Saturday totally off (my Sabbath). I did my Bible study, but don't have internet there. Here are the readings from Saturday and Sunday.
I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their ______. I will be their God, and they will be my people. Hebrews 8:10
For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear _____ ____ in God's presence. Hebrews 9:24
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may _____ one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:23-24
And without faith it is _________ to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hewbrews 11:6
Ok, by far Chapter 11 was my favorite chapter of the four. I like the history/faith lesson. However, my favorite verse was Hebrews 8:10. I desperately want God's Word to forever be on my mind and in my heart. It's the measuring rod for truth in this world, for we can't distinguish the truth if we don't know The Truth found in God's Word. That's why I want you to "Walk with Me", so that we can learn God's truth together. I like the last line of verse 8 as well, "I will be their God, and they will be my people"...too cool!
Which of the four verses (or any other ones in those chapters) hit home the most for you?
I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their ______. I will be their God, and they will be my people. Hebrews 8:10
For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear _____ ____ in God's presence. Hebrews 9:24
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may _____ one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:23-24
And without faith it is _________ to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hewbrews 11:6
Ok, by far Chapter 11 was my favorite chapter of the four. I like the history/faith lesson. However, my favorite verse was Hebrews 8:10. I desperately want God's Word to forever be on my mind and in my heart. It's the measuring rod for truth in this world, for we can't distinguish the truth if we don't know The Truth found in God's Word. That's why I want you to "Walk with Me", so that we can learn God's truth together. I like the last line of verse 8 as well, "I will be their God, and they will be my people"...too cool!
Which of the four verses (or any other ones in those chapters) hit home the most for you?
Glory Road - 5+ Star Rating
Glory Road - It's a Must SeeThe inspiring true story of the underdog Texas Western basketball team, with history's first all African American starting lineup of players, who took the country by storm, surprisingly winning the 1966 NCAA tournament title. Josh Lucas stars as Hall of Famer Don Haskins, the passionately dedicated college basketball coach that changed the history of basketball with his team's victory in this time of innocence.
I saw this with some great friends on Friday night. It was incredible. I give it a five star rating. In fact, there are not many movies that I have a desire to see twice, but this one measures up. I might even "pay" to see it twice, which is a huge!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Walk With Me Questions of the Day #2
God is not __________; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. Hebrews 6:10
...but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to ____ completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Such a high priest meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he _______ himself. Hebrews 7:24-27
The cool thing in the chapter 7 verse is that Jesus wasn't forced to lay down his life, He chose to...that's some serious love. As He chose us, He asks us to chose Him!
The fact that He intercedes for us is pretty cool too! If I were in a courtroom, I would definitely want Him pleading my case before the judge.
...but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to ____ completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Such a high priest meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he _______ himself. Hebrews 7:24-27
The cool thing in the chapter 7 verse is that Jesus wasn't forced to lay down his life, He chose to...that's some serious love. As He chose us, He asks us to chose Him!
The fact that He intercedes for us is pretty cool too! If I were in a courtroom, I would definitely want Him pleading my case before the judge.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Walk With Me Questions of the Day #1
Hebrews 4:12-13
For the ________ of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Hebrews 4:15-16
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been ________ in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 5:7-9
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and _______ to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him...
Fill in the blanks, of the three which one is your favorite and why?
For the ________ of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Hebrews 4:15-16
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been ________ in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 5:7-9
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and _______ to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him...
Fill in the blanks, of the three which one is your favorite and why?
Walk With Me - The New Question of the Day
Ok, I really think I'm a little (or as Natalie would probably say... a lot) on the ADD side. My mind zips in a 1,000 different directions...all the time. In the last hour, I've work on two different flyers, read the intro to a parenting book, glanced at two DVD's, sent three emails, surfed the internet, listened to Tim and Tony's podcast and am now thinking about my blog and lack of "Hero of the Day" questions lately.
While I love biblical hero's, we've already hit on a lot of them when it comes to "Hero Question of the Day"...to the point that I'm having to put a lot of effort into finding them and a cool scripture with their name in it. So, now I'm going to do a little change up that will be easier for me. If you're interested, you're invited to join me on a journey with some of my friends. Each week I meet with my inner circle of friends to go over stuff we've read in the Bible. After going down numerous rabbit trails, we usually cover around a dozen chapters. So, I'm going to give you my best of the best highlights in each chapter, along with the opportunity for a fill in or two, when it comes to stuff I'm learning. In honor of one of my favorite sayings on Wednesday night before Oasis, the new question of the day is entitled "Walk With Me". As Mr. Rogers (or some other dude) would say "Join me, won't you?"
While I love biblical hero's, we've already hit on a lot of them when it comes to "Hero Question of the Day"...to the point that I'm having to put a lot of effort into finding them and a cool scripture with their name in it. So, now I'm going to do a little change up that will be easier for me. If you're interested, you're invited to join me on a journey with some of my friends. Each week I meet with my inner circle of friends to go over stuff we've read in the Bible. After going down numerous rabbit trails, we usually cover around a dozen chapters. So, I'm going to give you my best of the best highlights in each chapter, along with the opportunity for a fill in or two, when it comes to stuff I'm learning. In honor of one of my favorite sayings on Wednesday night before Oasis, the new question of the day is entitled "Walk With Me". As Mr. Rogers (or some other dude) would say "Join me, won't you?"
Chris and Ryan - This Week!
When asked, Johnny Keim gave illusionists, Chris and Ryan, two thumbs up! The guys will be here this week! Kick-off Oasis in 2006 right by inviting your friends to check it out! Bring your parents too! I will be talking with them about Oasis and spring events down in the Great Room, while you're in the auditorium with your friends and some of the coolest leaders on the planet. Can't wait till Wednesday.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Got Skills?
I took a little blog vacation for the holidays. It's good to be back! For those Oasis radicals who will be there tomorrow night when we kick off our new series "Got Skills?", we've got a fun special guest for you. His name is Josh and he got some kickin' cool skills himself.
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