New Office Furniture!!!

Tennis Ball Office Chair
VHS Visitor Chair
This was not what I had in mind when I started looking for new office furniture. I was thinking a trip to IKEA would take care of business. Maybe I am missing some new trend from the latest designer.

Spread the Love
18 ways for students to make someone's day.

1. Send "thinking of you" cards to some guys and girls in your youth group who need cheering up.

2. Surprise Mom by offering to do this week's grocery shopping or laundry.

3. Have dinner ready when your parents come home from work.

4. Call your pastor or youth pastor and volunteer to help out around the church for a few days during your summer break.

5. Surprise a missionary family from your church. Get your youth group friends together, buy some gifts and assemble a package to send to the family. (Contact your pastor or youth pastor for ideas on what to send.)

6. Take pictures of your family and e-mail digital copies (or mail prints) to your grandparents or extended family members who may live far away.

7. Spend a Saturday or a day of your summer break volunteering at your local food bank, soup kitchen or Salvation Army shelter.

8. Spend a day at the zoo or a park with your little brother or sister.

9. Smile and say "Hi!" to someone you don't know.

10. Send "thank you" cards to a few of your favorite past teachers—including teachers from your elementary and middle school years. Tell them what you enjoyed most about your time in their classroom.

11. Offer to help an elderly person in your neighborhood with yard work or even just bringing in the groceries.

12. Walk your neighbor's dog.

13. Treat a friend at his or her favorite coffee shop.

14. Buy your mom a single rose.

15. Get together with some church friends and deliver homemade snacks to new members of your youth group.

16. Spend an afternoon visiting residents at a local nursing home.

17. Wash your parents' car without being asked.

18. Don't stop now. Look for little ways to make somebody's day every single day.

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Ignite Your Faith magazine.

A Great Way To Impress Your Friends

Picked this video up from my friend Marco.  

I would love to see someone at youth group "WOW" a "Newby" showing their impressive Dominoes skills.  This is better than the "Ligger" skills of Nepoleon.

Seven Burning Questions About Star Wars: The Clone Wars

by Tom Burns

August 15th... it's reality folk! Coming to a theater near you. Checkout some detailed info/answers to questions I know you have.

http://www.thedeadbolt.com/news/104852/7clonewars_feature.php

Please Pray for the Greg Laurie Family

Christopher Laurie, son of Pastor Greg Laurie and Cathe Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Calif., passed away on July 24, 2008 in a car accident. A resident of Huntington Beach, Laurie, 33, served as the art director at Harvest Christian Fellowship for the past three years.

In addition to his parents, Christopher is survived by his wife, Brittany, and daughter, Stella, as well as his brother Jonathan. Christopher and his wife are expecting another daughter in November.

Update: A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 1, at 11 a.m., Pacific Time at Harvest Christian Fellowship. You may watch the service live online by visiting harvest.org.

Ken Griffey Jr.-Going to the White Sox

Cincinnati Reds' Ken Griffey Jr. agreed to accept a trade to the Chicago White Sox today.
Sad day in Cincy!

Anchors
by Nelson Searcy

Anchors are set activities that keep our priorities in order.

There are many different kinds of anchors: family anchors, spiritual anchors, personal growth anchors, etc.

Spiritual anchors are daily, weekly, yearly or occasional activities that we do to celebrate our faith or keep us grounded in faith.

Family anchors are things you do with your family to keep your priorities in order.

Let me give you some examples from our group discussion:

SPIRITUAL ANCHORS
- Daily time with God
- Practicing a weekly Sabbath

FAMILY ANCHORS
- Regular date night with your spouse
- Monthly son/daughter lunch or dinner

PERSONAL GROWTH ANCHORS
- Reading one book a month
- A monthly mentoring or coaching relationship

Some are very systematic…do this every week or every month.

What are the anchors in your life?

How are you helping the members of your church build anchors?

Poll: What should Oklahoma City's nickname be?

I Voted for the Barons!!!
The NBA didn't like that KOCO-TV leaked word that the Oklahoma City team name was going to be Thunder, so they went and registered five other names on Friday to keep us on our toes. The six names filled for trademark: Barons, Bison, Energy, Marshalls, Thunder and Wind.

Nickname: Barons
Marketing campaign: "Shoot 'em up, shoot 'em down."
Mascot: Snoopy
Dance team: The Flying Aces
Arena songs: "We Fly High" by Jim Jones, "I Want To Take You Higher" by Sly & The Family Stone, "Shoot 'Em Down" by Twisted Sisters, "Pump Up the Jam" by Technotronic

Original Article By J.E. Skeets

Isn't Money... Money?

Often I pay with rolled coins and seem to face the same response. Are you sure there is 100 pennies in the roll? "That's what my coin machine says," is my response! I love the disgusted look on the clerks face.

I am also amazed at the response I receive when I pay with cash... "the pause, the look, the yellow pen (Could it be counterfeit?), the pause, the confused look (I can't count change back!), the slap-back from the receipt!" What was it like before credit cards? Isn't Money... Money?

What are your funny experiences?

Jimmie Johnson Wins the Brickyard!!!

Jimmie Johnson grabbed his second win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway by surviving horrendous tire troubles that made Sunday's race a caution-marred debacle.

My Redeemer Lives

I am still amazed how the Lord Jesus picks me up and carries me in my weaknesses and inabilities.

Sad Day for the Golden Girls

Estelle Getty, the diminutive actress who spent 40 years struggling for success before landing a role of a lifetime in 1985 as the sarcastic octogenarian Sophia on TV's "The Golden Girls," has died. She was 84. My favorite line: After listening to the grueling non-sense story of Betty White, Estelle said," I have had kidney stones with less pain!"

Yahoo.com News

US Makes Mark in History on July 20th

Yesterday marked the 39th year the Apollo 11 landing on the moon. Dispite those who believe the landing was a hoax, it was the first manned mission to land on the Moon. The first steps by humans on another planetary body were taken by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on July 20, 1969. The astronauts also returned to Earth the first samples from another planetary body. Apollo 11 achieved its primary mission - to perform a manned lunar landing and return the mission safely to Earth - and paved the way for the Apollo lunar landing missions to follow. Happy B-Day Space Team USA.

Is the Inflatable Car Our Answer to Rising Gas Prices?

Is this the answer to the ever rising gas prices? I can't imagine a blow-up car. Just thought this was funny.

The photo is an artistic recreation of a Porsche Carrera. It is completely inflatable and runs from natural "air" gas. To drive it, you simply unplug the cork, and sit on the thing, and inch forward as the escaping air propels you down the street. Look out there she blows!!!

I guess if every one owned one, wrecks would resemble bumper cars; but what about pranks like keying an enemies car. No more car!

Keep your eyes pealed for this beauty!

Why Buy?

Why do I always have to stand in line at the gas station when the following stat exists?

Your odds of dating a millionaire are 1 in 215?

But the likelihood of winning a single state lottery are about
18 million to 1?

Maybe I should tell those making there hopeful choice to save their money for the rising gas prices, pick up some Krispy Kreme Donuts, or just search for a single millionaire.

I Just Keep Dreaming!!!

Oh, how much simpler my life could be if I could purchase the new IPhone. However, due to Verizon's lack of sophisticated technology, and the company's inability to handle such a powerful tool, I must only dream! Please pray for me that I would not covet all my friends who have simplified their lives by purchasing the new "3"!!! God help Verizon.

At the "Office" with My Friends from D2S 

Free Youth Ministry Resources

Greg... do you have too much time on your hands? If so, come help us in the flooded Office. Bring your boots!

Break Dancing Baby

Oh! How this takes me back. One word: Ouch!!!

One Decked Out Multi-Purpose Toilet

I came home this afternoon only to find a broken toilet in our master bathroom. After two trips (the norm) to Lowe's for replacement toilet parts and gaskets, I was able to make it function like a well-tuned Cadillac. However, after checking out one of my favorite tech blogs, I discovered that I should have picked up a few more parts and accessories to deck out my toilet like this multi-purpose beauty! I believe the owner of this techno-john thought of everything!

Wall-E Needed to Help Clean Agape

Wall-E is one lean, mean, cleaning machine.  Great movie for the whole family!  Many positive underlying messages.

 

I would love to have this emotion-bearing, loving robot at the church to help in the recovery process.  He just scoops in the garbage, compresses it with a flex, dumps out the cubed trash, and stacks it in the correct location.  What a dream!

If you go see the movie, be sure to look for the ever-so-slightly hidden easter eggs which are a claim to fame for all Pixar Films. (Hint: Eve, and the hunt.)  

Wall-E Did not show up at the Drive-In but the Storm Did!

We had a great evening with friends meandering through the countryside to Spencer, IN to see Wall-E at the drive-in theater. However, due to road closings and a massive storm we did not meet the robotic alien. It was a wild ride with lots of laughs, especially after "Billy Joe Bob and his cousin Earnie Dale" from the local fillin' station gave us directions back to a main semi-straight paved road. Decided to trek back to the Haute, which needed no more water, to eat at Cheeseburger in Paradise to the sounds of a "dog calling/hollorin" singer.

Sweet memories and lots of teasing material for our neighborhood weather watchers. Great time. Thanks for the laughs Larson's!

Their Real Names Are...

It's no wonder that many celebs choose to drop their given name for something a bit more... catchy. Below is a list of 15 "real name" searches. Most people stick with the name they're given. Celebrities are not "most people."

1. Tiger Woods Real Name (Eldrick Woods)
2. Madonna Real Name (Madonna Ciccone)
3. Miley Cyrus Real Name (Destiny Hope Cyrus)
4. Coco Crisp Real Name (Covelli Crisp)
5. Hilary Banks Real Name (played by Karyn Parsons)
6. Gene Simmons Real Name (Chaim Witz)
7. Hulk Hogan Real Name (Terry Bollea)
8. Larry the Cable Guy (Daniel Lawrence Whitney)
9. Ray Stevens Real Name (Harold Ray Ragsdale)
10. Bono Real Name (Paul Hewson)
11. Sting's Real Name (Gordon Sumner)
12. Jay-Z's Real Name (Shawn Carter)
13. Marilyn Manson Real Name (Brian Warner)
14. John Wayne Real Name (Marion Morrison)
15. Prince's Real Name (Prince Rogers Nelson)

by Mike Krumboltz
June 24, 2008 11:56:54 AM

More Tim Hawkins
Corporation Worship

...just because he is so gut busting!

Tim Hawkins on Tech Support

Before I got a Mac, this song described my life!

Make a Smilebox free ecard

The New NES Conversion Model

Although this controller won't be seen by many people because it's under the hood of a car, we still applaud this maker who managed to create a giant NES controller that sits on top of his car's motor. Playing a game with this controller might be difficult if you are driving, although you'll be the popular one at the tailgate party.

My biggest questions... Does this make this model a "GO GREEN" car, and how much more efficient is the mileage after Restart and Enter?

A Few New Teen Stats and Trends

ypulse had a great summary the other day of some new research about teen preferences in a bunch of areas. i’ll break it into 5 posts. second up: Internet

- Teens spend 12.5 hours online while tweens spend only 6.4 hours (typical week during school year)

- Teens have grown tired of MySpace and have moved on to Facebook in the past six months

- Only a couple of virtual worlds are on tweens’ radars

- The top sites tweens visit — Webkinz among both tween boys and tween girls. Neopets, owned by Viacom’s interactive unit as well as Nick.com

- Club Penguin remains in third place for tween girls and dropped from 11th place to 13th place for tween boys since last summer

- AddictingGames is fast becoming the top casual gaming site among all youth, not just the kids and teens

Thanks Marco for the update!

I Just Pity the Fool!

At $200, Burger King Does World's Most Expensive Burger

The pricey burger is for charity, and it's only available in one Burger King in West London once a week. Here's what it's made up of:

The fine ingredients of what is called simply 'The Burger' include Wagyu beef, white truffles, Pata Negra ham slices, Cristal onion straws, Modena balsamic vinegar, lambs lettuce, pink Himalayan rock salt, organic white wine and shallot infused mayonnaise in an Iranian saffron and white truffle dusted bun.

Another megaexpensiveburger. Meh.

Posted by Adam Kuban, June 19, 2008 at 1:00 PM

Cardboard Testimonies

What would your cardboard have on it? Are you trusting in and on Jesus Christ to transform your life into the image of our Lord? How has your life been transformed by the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ? What's your story? Are you prepared to share it?

Lost....Found!
Unloved...Loved!
Suicidal...Living Passionate for Jesus!
Manager...Minister!
Hopeless...Have Hope!

Clone High School Musical

Who would have thought that even the warriors of Star Wars would catch the "High School Musical" Fever. I guess they just..."Gotta, Gotta, Gotta Get in the Game." Obiwan is such a skeptic sometimes!

My Day at the Office

Just a few of my books that were ruined with mold from the flooding of Agape.

My Office after the destruction crew finished. Almost as bad as Doug Fields' office after the weekend.

My home away from home. I think I am suffering from white lung!

Guess what I get to do tomorrow?
Trying to see the glass as half full!

Early Christian Church

Archaeologists have found what they believe is the earliest discovery of a Christian Church, in a cave in Jordan, dating from 33 AD. Pretty amazing, Huh?

Archaeologist Abdel-Qader Hussein, head of the Rihab Center for Archaeological Studies, Abdul Qader al-Husan told The Jordan Times:’We have uncovered what we believe to be the first church in the world, dating from 33 AD to 70 AD.

‘We have evidence to believe this church sheltered the early Christians - the 70 disciples of Jesus Christ.’

Mr Hussein said there was evidence that the underground cave was used in the first century after Christ’s death, which would make it the oldest Christian site of worship in the world.

The cave was unearthed in the northern Jordanian city of Rihab after three months of excavation and shows evidence of early Christian rituals.

Agape Christian Church doesn't look much different after all the damage caused by the flood and sewage water.

Thanks Marko for the heads up!

Agape Impact Students @ CIY 2oo8

Can You believe that HS students were this awake at 7:30am?

Buck Buck... it isn't just for Fat Albert and the Gang anymore. Definitely a CIY attraction!

Agape Has Left the Building

After a great week at CIY, this is the picture I came back to. Yes, the flood did much more damage than previously expected. Now all the walls, flooring, and cabinetry has been removed out of our Family Life Center and Atrium. WOW... What a mess. We have much work to do after Serve Pro clears and drys everything out. This is a real shot in the arm to the momentum we were building in our student and children's ministry.

But… God is so amazingly awesome. It is in times of struggle that we see the greatest work of our Lord. We are unified in our efforts, people are being saved, and He continues to provide for our need.

All our services will be held at 10am. in the Oakley Auditorium at Ivy Tech Community College directly across the Highway from the church.

Headed to CIY

Just a quick note to let all my fellow Blog friends know that I am headed to the CIY Conference in Anderson, IN. It will be a week until my next post; however, I will be making frequent updates to my Twitter page, which will keep everyone informed of all my happenings throughout this week. You can catch the excitement here or on my Facebook page.

Pray that our students would develop a heart of passion for our Lord and Savior. Pray that they might hunger and thirst for Christ and His righteousness because of this week long experience. It is my desire to see all attending students from everywhere "Move" from apathy to excitement and passion.

Also, keep Agape Christian Church in your prayers, as we recover from serious flood issues from the weekend. Great headway has been made to clean up, but much work still ahead.

May God bless you all,
Shan

Agape Flooded by 7 Inches of Rain Last Night

Family Life Center

FLC Entrance

Foyer and G-Force Sign In

Kitchen and Glen's Legs

My Library Under Water

My Office Under 2 Inches of Water

CIY 2008 @ Anderson IN.

Agape Student Ministries is headed back to Anderson, IN for CIY 2008. We are expecting God to do some miraculous heart transformations next week. With a focus on the Book of Acts, my prayer is that we would develop the passion of the early church and desire to become deep in our personal relationship with God and others; as well as, develop a boldness in our witness and mission. Pray for us and the many other students that plan to attend this year's Christ in Youth Conference.

Maria Chapman Memorial Service

Only by the grace of God can one endure such tragedy and remain true and hopeful.

Phoenix Landing on Mars

Just watched the coverage of the Phoenix landing on Mars from NASA on Fox TV. I don't know why, but this amazes me. I understand it's geeky, but I am still interested in how we can put satellites and robots on planets light-years away. I am also interested in more of God's creation. Awesome pics to come I am sure. On the watch.

Strategic Thinking

Why do we do what we do... the way we do it?

Is the church healthy and balanced? (5 Areas of Ministry)
Is the church focused on ministry over maintenance?
Is the church focused on growth over individual control?
Is the church really about spiritual health?

What is Jesus asking the church to do?

Strategy:
What is the church doing now? What does the church do in the future to achieve or remain fresh in the future? Are lives being transformed? Is the church's uniqueness attractive? How is the church assimilating visitors? How does the present or future church strategy effect the calendar?

Staffing:
Is the church properly staffed for growth? Does the church have the right people in the right places? What are future needs staffing wise for the church to grow?

Funding:
Is the church financially stable? What funding is needed for future growth?

Prompted by an interview by Kerry Mackey

What Would God Have Us To Know

I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. (Ephesians 1:18-19).

What do you think Paul means by the phrase “that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened”?

What three things did Paul pray the Ephesians would know? (The hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, his incomparably great power for us who believe.)

In your own words, how would you describe those three things? For help with this, check out following paraphrase of these verses from The Message:

I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength! (Ephesians 1:15-19).

Why is it important that believers understand and live their lives in the light of these truths?

What practical difference might it make in a believer's life?

Are you willing to spend time this week asking God to take you to the next level in your understanding of one of the three things described in the verses above?

Do you have unreached friends who need to hear about ‘the hope to which he has called you'? Are you willing to look for opportunities to share the message of the Gospel with them?

Dare 2 Share "Energy"

A Incomprehensible Tragedy

Sometimes, I just don't understand things. We read in Roman 8:28 that "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Well, Steven Curtis Chapman has given his life "For the Sake of the Call" for many years and is now facing the most extreme devistation that one could face... the death of a child. His teenage son accidentally ran over his youngest daughter, 5 yr. old Maria, in the driveway while she was playing.

My heart was torn just hearing of the incident. I just don't see the good in a situation like this. After teaching a study on the Sovereignty of God, I still cannot totally grasp why God allows evil, pain, and suffering? Am I just weak? Or just blind.

However, this I do understand... there is a high price tag for a loving relationship with the Creator of the universe. Freedom costs. God gave us the opportunity to freely love or reject Him, knowing that our freedom would result in pain. Jesus is the only remedy for that pain and for a restored relationship... for the hope of eternal life.

So, even in the sight of evil, pain, and suffering, I have to ask myself, do I believe God at His Word? Do I trust, that even in despair, that He will make all this wrong right? Where is my faith? I must understand that I have trusted in Him and on Him, despite my understanding. I pray that the Chapman family can walk through this trial in confidence, knowing that tomorrow will bring peace, hope, and understanding.

Prayers with the Chapman's!

White Stripes meet the Lego Masters

Wow!!! I bet it took longer to make the video than it it did to write, practice, and record the song. Way to go Lego builders!

The Wheaton Terrier

My wife, Jennifer, loves the wheaton terrier. She has completed much research about sizes, habits, temperment, and such. If she finds one, I am sure a purchase order/request will follow. They are so cute; but, how does one in ministry find time to love and train such a cute beast? If you have suggestion, let me know!

"New" Clone Wars Trailer

Schyler is going to love this. It will be a must see, must own. He's the biggest Starwars fan I know besides Josh G. and Kevin G. Can't wait!!!

Light of the World

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

What does it look like when Christians live as the 'light of the world'?
What are some specific examples of ways you can 'let your light shine before men'?
What kinds of things can Christians do to deflect 'praise' from themselves for their good deeds, and direct it instead toward God?
Do you think Jesus' message in these verses was a radical, revolutionary message back in His time? Why or why not?
Do you think Jesus' message in these verses is a radical, revolutionary message today? Why or why not?
Jolt and Bolt

Grow Deep accountability question: Are you willing to spend time in prayer this week, asking God to help you be His light?

Go Wide accountability question: What is one thing you can do this coming week that would allow you to 'let your light shine before men'?

Dare 2 Share 2008

American Teen

American Teen is a documentary on seniors at a high school in a small Indiana town and their various cliques. This film is do out this summer on Sundance.

As my friend Evan Courtney asks, "In high school which one are or were you?"

The Geek
The Rebel
The Princess
The Heartthrob
The Jock

What are Your "Hard Thing" Goals?

by The Rebelution

Thought this was an interesting list for students to "Do the Hard Things."  

If we were to ask ourselves what we desire or aspire to accomplish in this life, what would our list include?  It is interesting how our priorities take new shape when we develop a "Life/Purpose Statement" or a "Things-to-Do" list.  

How much stress would be eliminated from our lives if we focused primarily on God's checklist everyday?  

I know for me, a list as such, might be quite convicting.  It would definitely force me to simplify. 

Ironman: The Amazing Armor

 I caught the amazing Ironman movie the other evening.  Great movie and effects; however, I was disappointed in the first quarter of the movie.  Why is it that all these new movies have to include trash and innuendos to make it to the top?  Those of you who have seen the movie know what I am talking about.  The trash was not needed.

The Armor scenes were totally awesome.  Great correlation between the details of Ironman putting on the armor and Christians putting on the armor of God.  Good stuff.  Love to see the last three-quarters of the movie again.    

The Go-Green Mustang

My son and some friends have just designed the new Go-Green Mustang out of recyclable cardboard boxes. This beauty has kept them busy for the last 4.5 hours. You would think Ford could come up with something as fast with all their technology. If gas prices continue, we might really have to put wheels on this box-style Ford to drive to church.

NES Controller Coffee Table the Works

Kyle Downes has modded the coffee table into its best version ever: a retro-tastic NES controller. Just look at the sleek lines, the high quality finish and classy glass top. And then giggle at the fact that it actually works. This is a must have for the ever serious gamer!

Beverly Hills Chihuahua

Only thing that would make this funnier is building a Taco Bell in the center of the desert scenes and making it the dating hotspot.

Jason Castro is "Going Home"

Dreadheaded folkie Jason Castro spoke with reporters Thursday after being eliminated from American Idol's final four.

USA TODAY listened in on the conference call.
Q: Simon (Cowell) said last night on the news, 'I think he forgot his words on purpose. I think he just wanted to go home.' What's your reaction?

A: I definitely did not do that on purpose.

Q: So you still wanted to win?

A: I wanted to win. I think what it came down to was my inexperience. Once we doubled up on songs, I wasn't able to focus on both of my songs. My mind was just split. I just couldn't deliver either/or.

By Luz Elena Avitia, USA TODAY

What Does it Mean for Us to Surrender?

Matthew 16:25

For whoever wants to save his live will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.

Surrender: Freely giving up something for something totally better!

What guarantee does Jesus give us if we surrender our lives to Him?

What do you think He meant by what He said?

How will we gain our life if we surrender it to Him?

Jesus promises us real and true life. 

The God who sees all, knows all, and controls all has told us that if we want to truly live, the first step to that is surrendering completely to Him.

In light of that promise, besides your iPod, is there anything that’s not worth surrendering? (Just kidding about the iPod--I'm just a little addicted to Podcasts)

Lord, help me daily to take up my cross and follow you.  Give me the courage to surrender my WHOLE life to you.  Do what You will!  Not what I desire!  

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

Don't you wish you had this strength?  I may not, but God does.  "Where I am weak, He is strong!"  And, God does have the whole world in His hands.  I sure am glad He does, because we sure seem to make a mess of things sometimes.

Doug Field's Office

I commented on Doug's twitpic that "I get nervous just looking at this creative haven.  But, as you all know, I am a little OC or AR."  I suggested he make a call to Clean Sweep!  I must really be a neat freak.  Maybe my priorities are a little off balanced.  

Cards Over Cubs 5-3

Skip Schumaker hit a two-run homer in the 11th inning, taking struggling closer Jason Isringhausen off the hook in the St. Louis Cardinals' 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Friday night.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Rich Hill hangs his head on the mound as Cubs manager Lou Piniella comes out to pull him from the game during the first inning of a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals Friday, May 2, 2008, in St. Louis. Hill was pulled out of the game in the first inning after loading the bases and walking in a run. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

By Jeff Roberson (AP)
Published: 2008-05-03 00:05:03
Location: ST. LOUIS

The Real Garfield

Came across this photo on Marko's Blog.  Thought it would be a thrill for my friend Joshua, who is the biggest Garfield fan I know.  This cat weighs 35 lbs.  I cannot imagine the cat food bill or the size of litter-box needed to maintain a cat of this size.

Change

One of the greatest problems associated with church growth is that we as leaders often fail to move forward or challenge direction based on our fears and the fears of other leaders behaving as bureaucrats, not creative thinkers. so, the question we face is, "How open to change are we and our leadership team in today's ever changing church culture?"

The first step to any change involves a personal and team examination.  We can begin this examination by evaluating our response and reaction to any and all of the following questions.

Do we avoid change, not seeing or acknowledging the need for it?

Do we often resist change and defend the status quo?

Do we cooperate, going along with change, even if reluctantly?

Are we out in front as someone who anticipates and sees the need for change even before others do?

Are we leaders in creating change, taking action to bring it about?

Following the results of our actions, we and our leadership team must uncover the reasons for our resistance or the losses we fear, and determine how much those losses may prove advantageous or destructive to our mission and us.  Many times our churches fail in the mission because of personal and leadership fears.  Let us understand that God has placed us in leadership to stand up, be creative thinkers, take risks, try new things, and not to be obstructionists satisfied with complacency.

 

Black and/or Gus

I love the way the News Anchor throws the Script Writer under the bus.  Evidence that newscasters are puppets and are not in touch with the farm communities.  What would have happened if the news report was about a Jersey?

Distractions Lead to Larger Brain Capacities

A resent report stated that people who are distracted during the process of learning large amounts of information stand a better chance of learning, retaining, and dispelling that info.  Research actually says that we can expand our memory capacity with a life of distraction.  If this is the case, Youth Pastors must be the smartest people on earth, with the exception of a few like myself. 

Miley/Hannah Writes a Book

According to the Art section of the New York Times, Miley is writing a book about her family. Having dominated cable television and the concert circuit, and coming soon to the cineplex, Miley Cyrus, the 15-year-old star of the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” has agreed to write a book about her early life in Tennessee, her move to Los Angeles and the influence of her parents — especially her mother — on her success.

In a seven-figure deal, Disney Book Group acquired the rights to Ms. Cyrus’s book, to be published by the Disney-Hyperion Books imprint in spring 2009, when the Hannah Montana movie is also scheduled for release. Jeanne Mosure, global publisher of Disney Book Group, said the company had already sold 15 million copies of some 60 Hannah Montana-branded titles worldwide, including novelizations and gift books about the show. She said the new book would have an initial print run of one million copies.

“It’s rare that you hear from someone her age that they want to talk about their family,” Ms. Mosure said. “How she sees her family in light of everything that she’s exposed to on a daily basis is pretty incredible.”

By MOTOKO RICH; Compiled by Lawrence Van Gelder
Published: April 22, 2008

What the Presidential Race is Beginning to Look Like!

This was posted on Marko's blog today. Sorry to copy your thought Marko, but I thought this was extremely funny. We still have 6.5 months left. I am sure Shimp will enter the pic at some point. I am just thankful that no matter what happens in November, the One True God is soverign--in all and over all!!!

The Whole House Shook

No, I did not fall out of bed! It was a magnitude-5.2 earthquake, centered at West Salem in southern Illinois, which struck at 5:36 a.m. our time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The epicenter of the earthquake was about three miles below ground, six miles northwest of Mount Carmel, Illinois, and 38 miles north-northwest of Evansville, Indiana, according to the USGS. I am very familiar with the fault line that meanders through this area. My Dad was a coal miner in this area and spoke often about this particular separation in the rocks. I have actually been 900 feet below the surface and have seen this fault line which goes under several rivers. Amazing!

People as far north as southern Michigan and as far west as Des Moines, Iowa, reported feeling the quake according to The Associated Press. Air traffic was halted for an hour at Indianapolis International Airport while the control tower was evacuated. At least 30 people reported feeling the quake in Clarksville, Tennessee -- 227 miles south of the epicenter -- according to the USGS Web site. Buildings swayed in Chicago's Loop and people were shaken awake in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the AP reported. People as far away as southwest Michigan and northeast Georgia e-mailed CNN to say they felt the tremor.

In response, I just have to ask, “Isn’t God’s protection great?” I feel safe that He is still and always will be sovereign and in control.

What makes you think your god is better than everyone else’s god?

Because the God I worship . . .

. . . is before all things.

Col. 1:17, Ps. 90:2, Rev. 1:8, 1 Tim. 6:16
. . . created all things.

Gen. 1:1, Jn. 1:3, Col. 1:16
. . . upholds all things.

Heb. 1:3, Col. 1:17
. . . is above all things.

Eph. 4:6, Isa. 45:5-12
. . . knows all things.

Isa. 46:10, Ps. 139:4, 6
. . . can do all things.

Jer. 32:27, Lk. 1:37
. . . accomplishes all things.

Isa. 14:24; 46:10, Eph. 1:11
. . . rules over all things.

Dan. 4:34-35, 1 Ch. 29:11-12
. . . is in control of all things.

Job 42:2, Ro. 8:28

He Controls the following:
earthly kings - Pr. 21:1, Rev. 19:16
human events – Dan. 2, 7, Ps. 33:9-11
good angels – Col. 1:15-16, Rev. 4:8
Satan & bad angels – Job 1:6, Eph. 1:21, Php. 2:10
Human decisions – Eph. 1:11, Ro. 8:29-30, Acts 2:23; 13:48

No other god makes these claims. My God, the one true God, not only claims, but fulfills His Promises. Choose Jesus.

...Chip Ingram

Skateboardin' with Extreme Pete

Caught this on Fox News this morning. Thought to myself, "There is hope for me yet! You can teach an old dogs new tricks." I just wish that this statement would apply to the technology struggles I often face.

Audience Response Technology Tells the Story at Rebelution Conference

How important is the Word of God to you? Why? Is it important enough for you to read everyday? Are the decisions you make based on your preferences and desires or based on the Truth of God's Word? Truth is not truth because we believe it... it is truth. The Word of God is Truth. We cannot pick and choose to accept part of God's Word. We either believe all of it or none of it. Do you desire the Truth? Then Read His Word!

4 Ingredients that Produce Life-Long followers of Jesus

Kurt Johnston, Saddleback Community Church Jr. High Pastor, blogged, "This morning, Kara Powell made a case for 4 ingredients of a youth ministry that produces students who remain Christ-followers as they enter college. Her 4 (in my words):* A clear understanding of the gospel.* A ministry that welcomes and provides opportunities for doubts to be shared.* Opportunities for inter-generational relationships.* Students learning how to feed themselves spiritually."

Thanks Kurt and Kara. It's statements like these that help me evaluate the effectiveness of the Youth Ministry I lead at ACC and challenges me to make the necessary changes to lead students to be Life-Long Followers.

1. Does our Student Ministry provide a clear understanding of the gospel?

2. Is our Student Ministry a ministry that welcomes and provides opportunities for doubts to be shared?

3. Does our Student Ministry provide opportunities for inter-generational relationships?

4. Does our Student Ministry teach students how to feed themselves spiritually?

All to early to answer; however, I do think we have some work to do to create the greatest opportunity for success...to see students passionately and intentionally follow Jesus for the rest of their lives.

NEW YOUTH ACTIVITY: "LED HOOPS"

Who said disco was out of style?

I don't know what all the obsession is with hula-hoops lately, but unique hoop options keep popping up on Geeky news. Maybe hoops are coming back as the activity or exercise of choice. But, an LED Hoop! How cool is that? All we need to do is have a DDR and LED Hula-Hoop Night and we will surpass the ever-so-popular Youth Group Halo Tournaments. NOT!

Love to see 3 or 4 hoops circling in one room.

A Must Read for Students and YP's!!!

Do Hard Things by Alex & Brett Harris

Checkout http://www.therebelution.com/ for more details.

Something Handy for "Summer Camp"

Designers Feijun Chen & Bin Zhao clearly were reading Skymall when they dreamed up these "Pioneer" sneakers with built-in recharging headlights. They've got a battery inside which charges on each step, using some mysterious tech that doesn't look piezoelectric. Apparently this can power the LEDs in the front for a full 12 hours. So you can, you know: run in the dark down dim-lit streets, or something. Who knows the cost!

Maybe they'd be handy for Youth Summer Camp?

Paper Covers Rock

Chris Davis posted this video from 12 Movies in 12 Months. It will leave you on the edge of your seat. Or, you might fall off your seat in laughter. You might not want to try this in your youth group, someone could really get hurt.

Does the Bible really claim that there is only one way to Heaven?

It seems like I answer this question every time I meet with students. It is not that I am intolerant, but the Bible states it very clear…

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 NIV)

Jesus is the only way to Heaven. We may want to buy our way in, work our way in, or think our way in. But the Bible is clear—Jesus Christ provides the way in.

“But, what if I believe that everyone goes to heaven…what if I am good…what about Muslims and Buddhists and you fill in the blank?”

The Bible says, “Jesus is the way.” It’s Jesus or it’s Hell. That’s what it says. That’s what I believe.

My New Custom Made Toys

Yes I finally did it! And, yes they are all here. Now the real task is finding time in such a busy schedule to find my "chops" again. They sound sooo good. I just wish I did right now. It will not take long.

Either way, "This is my act of worship." I can totally get lost in the worship of Him when I am playing. Pray that I force myself to spend the time. If nothing else, my son Schyler has a great inheritance ahead of him.

How Are We To Respond To God’s Goodness?

Repent of our unbelief and ingratitude –

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance? (Romans 2:4)

Rest in His goodness when encountering adversity.

How great is Thy goodness, which Thou hast stored up for those who fear
Thee, which Thou hast wrought for those who take refuge in Thee, before the sons of men! Thou dost hide them in the secret place of Thy presence from the conspiracies of man; Thou dost keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues. (Psalm 31:19-20)

Risk stepping out in faith like never before!

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11

It is my prayer that we all will lavish in and respond to God's Godness in the preceding ways. I challenged each Common Grounds participant to journal a leap of faith in which they will take before our next small group meeting. If you are willing, take the leap with us and jounal God's generocity. Feel free to comment.

What to Do With Old Youth Ministry Hula Hoops

Architecture & Activity

Beautify the Landscape around your Church and Create a unique Youth Activity.

Check it out...mass studies architecture studio created a temporary installation for the 25th Anniversary of Storefront for Art and Architecture Gallery in New York City. The installation was created from about a thousand hula-hoops zip-tied together to form a massive dome structure.

If we could just figure out what to do with old Rubick's Cubes!

3rd Graders Plot to Kill Teacher

Officials in Georgia have thwarted a plot by a group of third-grade special education students to kill their teacher.

Officials at the Center Elementary School in Waycross, Ga., learned of the plot on March 28, when a student told authorities about the plan before the start of the school day, the Waycross Journal-Herald reports.

The plot by as many as nine boys and girls was a serious threat, Waycross Police Chief Tony Tanner said Tuesday.

The students allegedly brought to school a broken steak knife, a roll of duct tape, handcuffs, ribbon and a crystal paperweight in a bid to kill their teacher, Belle Carter, the paper reports.
"We did not hear anybody say they intended to kill her, but could they have accidentally killed her? Absolutely," Tanner said. "We feel like if they weren't interrupted, there would have been an attempt. Would they have been successful? We don't know."

The children, ages 8 and 9, were apparently mad at the teacher because she had scolded one of them for standing on a chair, Tanner said.

"It’s our understanding that she did in fact discipline one of the students, and they did not like it, he told FOX News. "After that, she began to plot revenge on the teacher."

What is possessing this culture to take things into there own hands? What makes them think that their actions do not have consequenses? We cannot continue to soften or neglect issuing consequenses in our school systems. At this time, teachers and administrators have no authority in the classroom. Why have we allowed this to happen? We are reaping what we have sown. Maybe we need to teach more Old Testament where the Israelites were not spared the rod.

Customer Service

"...are the people we deal with in church environments more like customers or more like employees?"

"It’s much easier to cater to everyone’s personal preferences than to challenge people to a life of service and accountability."

What would life look like if we all chose to be employees rather than customers? To serve rather than consume? It’s backward from our human nature and especially the Western mindset. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but Kingdom ways often seem upside down and inside out. But when employed properly, it changes the world. I don’t know about you, but that’s a gig I’m signing up for.

Erik Cooper
Lakeview Worship

I read a sentence from "The Knowledge of the Holy" by AW Tozer. Tozer states, "The first step down for any church is taken when it surrenders its high opinion of God." This statements forces us to ask ourselves and our congregations, "To you who is God? What is your perception of Him?" The response can directly affect wheather our churches grow according to this statement. I think most churches are holding on to the perception that Jesus was sent to make us happy...which causes many churches to decline in number and Spirit.

Great Points from Ministry Mutiny by Greg Stier

God works more in the whisper than He does in the big, the loud, the fiery, and the blustery.

How do I hear from God?
Get alone with God.
Read His Word.
Pray.
Listen.

Too many times our devo time is a mechanical time of forced reading and a prayer list. We need to…
Take much time to read His Word.
Think through what the Spirit of God is teaching us.
Spend time in silence, reflecting on how it applies to our lives at that very moment.
Discern the whisper of God during times of reflection.

When we listen for God’s whisper, we learn how to deal with teenagers more effectively because we are being sensitive to God’s Spirit. We impact more lives because God is making a maximum impact precisely through you because we are listening for His direction. The quiet revolution comes about when we spend time in quiet reflection and then act on what God is teaching us.

1Kings 18:17-40