Shreddin' the Gnar at Dare 2 Share in St. Louis

The Agape Christian Church IMPACT Students attended the Dare2Share "INVINCIBLE" Tour in downtown St. Louis last weekend. It was an amazing opportunity to be equipped to share the GOSPEL message by some amazing teachers and preachers. Students were challenged by the D2S Team to "Go All Out... or Go Home!" Students had opportunities to share their faith in Christ with the lost by calling their unsaved friends on cell phones, by going door to door in the communities surrounding St. Louis, and by intentionally starting conversations downtown and at the motels they were staying.

The Preacher, Greg Stier passionately shared the GOSPEL of Jesus Christ in a palletable way so students could grasp how to share the love and forgiveness of Christ with their friends and how to have a personal relationship with the Creator of the universe by accepting Jesus as Lord for those who had not made that personal decision.

"Mobilizing teenagers to relationally and relentlessly reach their generation for Christ!"

My friend Sean, who was in the "Sharing Zone" the whole time, was able to experience a dream come true by meeting one of his evangelist superheroes, Greg Steir. Sean is passionate about sharing the Gospel with unbelievers. He has an extremely compassionate heart and an evangelistic personality.

Zane Black surfed in to encourage students to share Christ with his personal testimony and to share some practical witnessing applications through drama and "Zane-iness!"

A few of the girls were thinking of ways they could share the love of Christ with their friends! Or, they were dreaming of ways they could get Zane to go with them to grab a chili-cheese dog!

Besides the rain and snow, it was an amazing weekend that connected with our students and is still resonating as I have already heard stories about how they are invading their campuses and neighborhoods with the Good News of Jesus. We are truly on a GOSPEL Journey!

Goals for Daily Living
by Jim Burns

In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.—Proverbs 16:9

Have you ever written down goals for living your life? I'm not talking about the do's and don'ts of legalism. I mean forming a philosophy of life and then living your life to the fullest according to your goals.

F.B. Meyer was a great writer and minister of the gospel. He had seven goals for daily living that I use and recommend.

1. Make a daily, definite consecration of yourself to God (audibly).
2. Tell God you are willing to be willing about all.
3. Reckon on Christ to do His part perfectly.
4. Confess sin instantly.
5. Hand over to Christ every temptation and care.
6. Keep in touch with Christ. (Read the Word, and good books; pray; and seek places and people where He is.)
7. Expect the Holy Spirit to work in, with, and for you.

Homeward Devotionals

IMPACT Student Ministry at the Dare 2 Share Conference in St. Louis

Pray for the conference this weekend and our students as we embark on the Gospel Journey to St. Louis, MO. We are expecting God to do some amazing things in and through our students. In the words of Greg Steir...

We have over 8,000 teenagers already registered and could see close to 9,000 teens in total with those who sign up at the door. That’s a potential army of Jesus loving, gospel sharing evangelists who come from all over the midwest and could be used to strike a revival of Biblical proportions all across America. God is up to something big. We are more than willing to drive 14 hours to see what it is.

May lives be transformed and passions ignited for the Kingdom of God as students are trained and sent out to testify in the name of Jesus Christ. May they obtain a boldness that encourages each of the to share the Gospel of Christ with everyone they come in contact with. May our student ministry and our schools be transformed by the efforts of D2S, your prayers, and the power of Christ.

8 Reasons We Don't Share Our Faith

30 Questions Poll:

Poll: Which questions, in your opinion, do you feel you need the answers to the most (Top 5 in order), based on questions you and your friends have?

1. Who is God, and what is He like?
2. What is the Trinity?
3. Who is Jesus, and what is His message?
4. Why did Jesus die on the cross?
5. How do I know Jesus really rose from the dead?
6. Who is the Holy Spirit, and what does He do?
7. How do I get plugged in to the power of the Holy Spirit?
8. Is the Bible really God’s word, and does it really relate to my life?
9. What is truth, and can I know it with certainty?
10. What is sin, and how does it impact my life and my relationships with others?
11. Why does God allow evil in the world?
12. What is a Christian, and how does a person become one?
13. If Jesus is the only way to heaven, are all other religions wrong?
14. What about people who have never heard about the Gospel?
15. What is the Great Commission, and how does it relate to me?
16. Is there a real heaven and hell, and what are they like?
17. Is there a judgment day, and what difference should it make in my life?
18. Can I really be forgiven for all my sins, even the really bad ones?
19. Will God ever leave me or forsake me?
20. Who are Satan and his demons?
21. How do I engage in spiritual warfare?
22. What is the Church, and why should I be involved?
23. What are spiritual gifts, and how do I discover mine?
24. How should the return of Christ impact my life?
25. What is prayer, and how do I do it?
26. Why should I study my Bible, and how do I do it?
27. How do I defend my faith?
28. Who am I, where did I come from, and what is my purpose?
29. Did God create everything, and why does it matter?
30. How can I worship God in everything I do?

Based off the D2S 30 Core Truth Questions

4-Day School Week Gaining Steam as Cost-Cutting Measure
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. — With the nation's school districts strapped for cash, more are considering a schedule that delights students and makes working parents cringe: Class only four days a week.

By extending school hours and eliminating a day of classes each week, education officials say they could save busloads of money on transportation and utilities.

While there's still debate about how much districts will save, proponents say the shortened week can improve attendance and teacher retention. As for academics, studies have shown the four-day schedule does not hinder student achievement, and may even help improve test scores.

Some districts have even reported fewer disciplinary referrals and more classroom participation.

"It's hard to get to the why, of course, because so many things affect student achievement," said Andrea D. Beesley of Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning in Denver.

State laws govern how many days students must attend class each year. In places where four-day weeks are allowed, districts are required to hold an equivalent number of instructional hours. That typically means adding just over an hour of class each day.

For the complete story check out: Fox News

TeamKID: Truly Transforming

Before

After

Great Time Today at the HC Breakfast Club with 212+ Students

Our New Hall Sign

Connecting

17 Doz. Donuts

Devotional and Prayer Time

"It's Not Fair" Music Video from the the 2009 NYMC

"I've Seen It All" Music Video from the 2009 NYMC

2009 National Youth Ministry Conference Twitter Roll

Be sure to stay connected and pray for new friends and Affinity Group members through Twitter and Blog Posts! Check it out at #nymc!

Josh and Jake's Segway Ride

Sack Chair Diving with Josh and Jake

Remember... Day Four of the NYMC

What is the most humbling appeal you will make to God for this year?
Think big... Pray big! Eph 3:20-21.

Doug Fields preaching on the "Phases of Ministry and Personal Life"

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 2He removes every branch in me that does not produce fruit, and he cleanses every branch that does produce fruit so that it might produce more fruit. John 15:1

1. Forced Fruit
2. Fake Fruit
3. Fresh Fruit

Now to the one who can do infinitely more than all we can ask or imagine according to the power that is working among us— to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever! Amen. Eph 3:20-21.

Friends Chris and Jake

Remember... Night Three of the NYMC 2009

A Solid Night of Worship and Content

The Skit Guys just changed the course of history with the re-enactment of the fall of Adam and Eve. Wild and Crazy Guys!

Doug delivered a simple, but challenging message surrounding the question of "What do you want kids to remember about your ministry when they are older?" Oh... how often we for get. We are much like a gold fish which have a 3 second span of memory. Reminds me of Jr.High ministry. Are you passing on the fundamentals of the faith? He used the change in our pockets to help us "Remember..."

Penny: Remember... Your PAST can be forgiven in Christ.
Nickel: Remember... God's Spirit in us NOW in Christ.
Dime: Remember... God has reserved an eternal DETERMINED DESTINY for those who believe and trust in Jesus.
Quarter: Remember... QUALITY GROWTH continues in those who follow Jesus.

What would our ministry look like if we would only remember the foundations of our faith? Remember to Remember what you want kids to Remember!

Doug Fields made kids play Red Rover, Red Rover in the dark and a student got a concussion was the results!

Derek Webb singing and playing amazing harmonics on his guitar to "Nobody Loves Me." Download his newest CD for FREE Now!

Back to the Hotel Hotel!

Remember... Night Two of the NYMC 2009

Night 2 kicked off with many Fun Games and an American Idol Sing-Off to the sounds of Journey hosted by Secreast wanna-be Josh Griffin. John is the big American Idol winner!

The Skit Guys Rocked the house like usual with their gut-busting antics.

Kay Warren challenged Youth Workers from abroad with the question, "Do you pray for a surrendered, disturbed, and ruined life in your walk with Chirst?" The kingdom of "You" and "Me" says NO to Him and His Kingdom. She asked, "What will it take for you to really surrender?" It is time to say NO to me and Yes to Him in a bold and daring way!

Do we really trust God enough to answer with reckless abandon? Is there anything in our lives that we are willing to die for to follow the call of Jesus? Kay went on with the most challenging point of all by stating that, "If you are not willing to die for your faith, then don't call yourself a disciple. To be ruined is to follow Jesus at all cost!" We have the opportunity to make an invisible God visible! Will we continue to sit on the sidelines in our comfortable churches? Wow!!! What powerful challenges and thoughts to unpack!

"It's not fair" music video by Jakester premiered! Great Video! Can't wait to share it with others!

Caedmans Call rocked the house with serious percussion and
melodic harmony. Awesome sound!

The 100th SYM Live Podcast. Great gig and digs! Watch it live on Ustream.com/SimplyYouthMinistry

Remember... Night One of the NYMC

We are the "Grateful Ones"--Tim Timmons leading worship!
As usual Tim's passion for the Lord helped usher us into the presence of God through song!

"I wish these next two guys were a product of my Youth Ministry"--Doug Fields

Alex and Brett Harris, teenage authors of the book "Do Hard Things" and of the Web-site Rebelution were the Keynotes for the evening. They made the points that "students can understand big things about God and that students understand they can do big things for God." They also remarked that "willing students are doing great things for the cause of Christ. Challenge them to Do Hard Things."

Who can we as Youth Pastors encourage in our groups to create a Rebelution?

Braddigan Concert gave voice to the voiceless in their unique style and poetic message.

Friday Night Announcements

Early Registration at the NYMC

Registration at the #nymc started early. Lines are forming and people are connecting or maybe just looking for someone to buy the coffee. Sac Chairs are a hit already. People are scrambling for their spot and favorite color. Take one home if you need some amazing furniture for your youth room.

Come visit me at the Internet Cafe if you get a chance. Right across from the Dare 2 Share booth. Go meet Jason, Brian, Phil, and John at D2S.

2009 National Youth Ministry Conference
Columbus, OH

Connecting with some of the most innovative YP's in Kingdom work at the most practical conference in Youth Ministry! It has already been amazing to hear how God is working in the lives of students throughout the United States. I am praising Him tonight for the relationships built here today and the wonderful transforming power of Jesus Christ.

Continue to follow this blog as I will be keeping you informed with ideas, discussions, and quotes from speakers, affinity group leaders, and participants. You can also follow me on Twitter for up to the minute tweets. Don't forget you can also get real time results at #NYMC.

Your Life Story: Tragically Wasted or Gloriously Spent
by Alex and Brett Harris

3 Marks of a Tragically Wasted Life
A lukewarm attitude of complacency.
A lazy habit of procrastination.
A paralyzed lifestyle of timidity.

3 Marks of a Gloriously Spent Life
A hot-hearted desire to be useful.
A relentless passion for the good use of time.
A constant readiness to risk for the Gospel.

Is your life defined by complacency? What do you need to do to live the glorious life God is calling to to live? What drives your passion to full-fill God's desire for you?

The Rebelution

Another Type of Bail Out

Call this my soapbox or rant, but I am ticked. Negotiations are going on right now about awarding students with B's if they just attend class. What? Talking about dumbing things down! What would aspire a student to learn anything if they receive the acceptable "B" for just attending class?

As a nation, we seem to reward people for doing nothing. Entitlement!!! "It's my right to be successful no matter what I do or how I do it! I deserve the best for nothing!" No body fails... people, companies, etc. "Let's bail them out...it must be the system!"

This is totally contrary to what I am trying to teach my son. I continue to tell him that he needs to make strong commitments to hard work, and that the world owes him nothing. By God's grace he will be blessed. Intrinsic motivation and a desire to please God should drive his passion to succeed... not the one foot tall trophy that everyone receives for just showing up to practice. No wonder we are living in an apathetic generation where the minimum is accepted.

The world keeps telling him that he should be rewarded and successful for just being. No wonder a true commitment to Christ seems almost obsolete. "I will follow Christ as long as I don't have to work at it or if it doesn't require much or cost me anything. I will serve Christ when it is convenient for me." We live in the generation where we will serve a "Cause," not because it is what Christ expects us to do, or because we are suppose to be the hands and feet of Christ; but, because "it make us feel good." We will get instant gratification, acceptance, and even rewards." The motives are all wrong!

Check out what 60 Minutes has to say about how the job market is affected by the current generational trends.



Many have rejected the 60 Minute Team on this report, however, I can tell you that I see this everyday. And with current trends, I only see our nation and churches becoming powerless because the minimum is accepted and commitment is not expected. Innovation will only decrease in time and there will be fewer workers to pull off the ideas that "the thinkers" imagine. We need to be on our knees crying out to God for this sin of apathy and our enabling.

Sometimes It Isn't Easy
Jim Burns

Love one another with brotherly affection; out do one another in showing honor.—Romans 12:10 RSV

No one ever said that living the Christian life would be easy. The following words help give us perspective.

IT IS NOT EASY
To apologize
To start over
To take advice
To be unselfish
To admit error
To face a sneer
To be charitable
To keep trying
To be considerate
To avoid mistakes
To endure success
To profit by mistakes
To forgive and forget
To think and then act
To keep out of a rut
To make the best of little
To subdue an unruly temper
To shoulder a deserved blame

BUT IT ALWAYS PAYS OFF

www.homeword.com

Dare 2 Share's INVINCIBLE

Free Youth Ministry Resources

What Does Your Heart Sound Like?
Stethoscope

Does your heart sing praises to the Lord for His saving grace and beat compassionately for those who need to hear the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus? What is the condition of your heart? Do you need a transplant?

Praying for Christians everywhere to share the Truth of the Gospel to those who desperately need hope and eternal life in Christ Jesus.

Tithe Rap

I say "100"!!! You say "10"!!!

Chimpanzee Riding on a Segway
Where do people come up with trained Chimpanzees?

Borrowed this one from Mark Oestreicher. I laughed! I cried! I almost threw a party! And, like ysmarko, I found myself singing the tune from this video.

Eight O' Clock Colombian Coffee Wins Consumer Reports Taste Test

According to Consumer Reports, "Folgers, Maxwell House, and Starbucks are America's best-selling ground coffees. But all three were iced by Eight O'Clock Colombian coffee in our taste tests. As for Starbucks, it didn't even place among the top regular coffees and trailed among decafs."

CR stated, "Our tests of 19 coffees also show that some of the best cost the least. At about $6 per pound, Eight O'Clock costs less than half the price of Gloria Jean's, Peet's, and other more expensive brands."

Consumer Reports has perked my curiosity! I have never tried Eight O'Clock Coffee. I don't know that I have ever thought of purchasing a pound. Probably because I drink coffee throughout the day. I'll see how Eight O'Clock tastes at Five O' Clock and let you know!

Sharing Jesus With Your Friend

Mark Hall-Casting Crowns

On-Line Missions Trip Challenge

One of the things I think is wrong with the church is that we have gotten passionate about so many things EXCEPT for the one thing that Jesus left us on this planet to do…REACH PEOPLE with the LIFE CHANGING MESSAGE of Jesus Christ. (Perry Nobel)

Just wanted to encourage all my students and friends as we continue to passionately share the Gospel of Christ through our Social Networks. Tell your story! Tell us all your story. This is so Revolutionary that we have the opportunity to IMPACT our entire nation and world with so many participating in the On-Line Missions Trip across the USA.

Keep Sharing!!!

Go!!! You are Commanded!

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." --Matthew 28:19-20

The problem for most of us Christians is not knowledge but obedience. It is not that we do not know what we need to do or how to do it. What we lack is the intention to do it. We have not made up our minds that the commands of Jesus will come before the commands of the world. When we genuinely deny ourselves and follow Him, when we offer our lives as living sacrifices, our minds and hearts will be transformed. As disciples of Jesus, our first priority will be to make other disciples for Him.

Particpate in the On-Line Missions Trip Today!

Autism Sunday--February 8

Cathedrals, churches and religious organizations around the world will observe Autism Sunday, an international day of prayer for those with autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, on February 8. Parents, caregivers and people with autism have been asked to inform their church groups around the world and request them to observe Autism Sunday.

Autism Sunday was launched in 2002 by parents and caregivers Ivan and Charika Corea in the United Kingdom, who have a son with autism. A service for autism was held at St. Paul's Cathedral in London in 2002 to mark the launch of Autism Sunday.

Many autism advocates use Autism Sunday to raise awareness of the serious education and health issues associated with autism. World leaders have been urged to share their "vision for autism" on Autism Sunday and spell out their plans to help parents, caregivers, children and adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome.

Learn more at the Autism Sunday Web site: http://autismsunday.tripod.com/.

My Two Favorite Superbowl Commercials

What are You Doing with Your Time?

Are you sharing the GOSPEL of Christ? Join the thousands of students across the US on the first ever On-Line Missions Trip by sharing Jesus Christ with your friends and followers using your social networks? (Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, e-mail, text messages, etc...)

Share your Story during the On-Line Missions Trip Feb.1st-Feb. 14th!

Kurt Warner's Bold Witness

Kurt Warner's bold witness for his faith comes as no surprise to those who have watched the NFL quarterback play for more than a decade. That's what two Super Bowls -– one as MVP in a win -– and a book or two detailing your faith will do.

The Arizona Cardinals signal-caller regrets not being able to share what is most important to him with more people, particularly when members of the media censor or minimize his faith in exploring his personality and his career.

That's why he tries to do TV interviews with a Bible at his side and to mention God in live interviews since it can't be edited out.

But he knows the name of Jesus can make non-Christians uncomfortable with the peace that He gives in the violent and up-and-down world of professional football.

Warner says, “Everything I do, everywhere I go, I’m trying to live up to or represent Jesus,” Warner said. “Having the faith I have is first and foremost in my life.”
TAMPA, Fla. (BP)--Photo by Joni B. Hannigan

What is School for?
by Seth Godin

Seems like a simple question, but given how much time and money we spend on it, it has a wide range of answers, many unexplored, some contradictory. I have a few thoughts about education, how we use it to market ourselves and compete, and I realized that without a common place to start, it's hard to figure out what to do.

So, a starter list. The purpose of school is to:

Become an informed citizen
Be able to read for pleasure
Be trained in the rudimentary skills necessary for employment
Do well on standardized tests
Homogenize society, at least a bit
Pasteurize out the dangerous ideas
Give kids something to do while parents work
Teach future citizens how to conform
Teach future consumers how to desire
Build a social fabric
Create leaders who help us compete on a world stage
Generate future scientists who will advance medicine and technology
Learn for the sake of learning
Help people become interesting and productive
Defang the proletariat
Establish a floor below which a typical person is unlikely to fall
Find and celebrate prodigies, geniuses and the gifted
Make sure kids learn to exercise, eat right and avoid common health problems
Teach future citizens to obey authority
Teach future employees to do the same
Increase appreciation for art and culture
Teach creativity and problem solving
Minimize public spelling mistakes
Increase emotional intelligence
Decrease crime by teaching civics and ethics
Increase understanding of a life well lived
Make sure the sports teams have enough players

From Seth Godin's Blog
http://www.squidoo.com/seth

Schyler and the Neighborhood Igloo

Myself, Schyler and the neighborhood kids decided to build an igloo from the driveway snow. Everyone is waiting for the temps to rise so they can play inside of it. Of course, sledding down the neighborhood "Big Hill" will be included in their day!

Snow Slams the Wabash Valley

My Back Deck is Covered

Looks Like I Need to Scoop Snow for the 4th Time

14"of Snow Out My Garage Door

CIY Winter Retreat Planning Video

Youth Group 101 - Winter Retreat Math from CIY Move on Vimeo.

Why is it that everything takes priority over Youth Ministry Activities/Events, Youth Group, church, etc... things that have the potential for transformational and even eternal life change? Why can coaches and schools dictate family time, but when Pastors and churches ask for a commitment..."it's just too much?" Why does this generation feel that the church is not essential.

President's inauguration Invocation by Dr Rick Warren

President Obama's Inauguration Speech

Part 1

Part 2

The Obama Inauguration: Lego-Style

The SF Weekly just posted a Lego intensive slide-show of the Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama. The display opens to the public tomorrow, Jan. 16, and will stay on through Memorial Day.

Check out Rick Warren seated on the left! Love the hair!

Photos by Christopher Victorio.

Diary of A Wimpy Kid 3

The Diary of A Wimpy Kid 3 comes out today. This series is a must read for Jr. High Pastors. It will take you back to your own middle school days and help you resonate with the struggles students face. It might even bring back some uncomfortable emotions that have been repressed.

Kinney blogs, "In book 3, Greg's dad decides that the only way to shape up his son is to send him off to military school. So Greg has to use his wits to get out of a very sticky situation."

Pick up a copy today!

GOSPEL Paintball with Greg Stier

How far are you willing to go to share the GOSPEL?

Baptizing an Ogre

One of the more memorable experience as a Youth Pastor occurred while baptizing, not an Ogre, but the Ogre. As the name might imply, Ogre was a 6’5” muscular wrestler that accepted Christ as Savior following an International Wrestling Tour that ended in Turkey. Ogre’s shoulders were as wide as the baptismal, and his height stretched longer than the space provided. I was fine until, “I baptize you brother in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” where Ogre hit his head on the end wall after I dropped him. The matter got worse when I vocalized a deep “Ugh” sound, and portrayed a red-faced strain during “buried in likeness and raised in newness of life.” The experience ended with congregational gasps and laughs, as Ogre splashed water over the front wall while standing to his feet and holding his head. I praise the Lord I am living today to tell of this joyous celebration!

Most Memorable Moment in Youth Ministry

One of the most memorable, but awkward moments as a Youth Pastor, occurred while trying to explain to an inquisitive camp owner and an intrigued camper from a public camp grounds why I had a student run through the grounds from the shower house to the campsite wearing only a hand towel and shaving cream. Let’s just say that, unlike the campers, the student was very forgetful!

Getting Mobile in 2oo9

Lately my wife has accused me of being addicted to my Blackberry and I have caught several "ribbings" from friends as being a "Twitter-holic." However, I realize that in today's information age, the church must utilize every avenue to get the Gospel out to a lost world. Bobby Gruenewald from Lifechurch.tv just posted an article on his blog that is worth your time to view and to follow, as he lays out some innovative ways to utilize today's mobile phone craze as an avenue to share Jesus Christ and minister to the needs of the sheep God has placed in your fold and area of influence.

Bobby states, "At the start of last year, 3.3 billion people were mobile phone users. This is a global phenomenon and contrary to what many believe, “global” actually includes the US :) 13-17-year-olds in the US send/receive an average of 1,742 sms messages each month. EVERY populated area on Earth is affected by the growth of mobile usage. So mobile is really both global and local. I believe the Church must communicate with and engage people where they are at (not just spiritually, but geographically)."

To read more:
http://swerve.lifechurch.tv/2009/01/05/2009-the-year-the-church-better-get-mobile/

So, if you are being teased about your mobile usage (SMS's, Twitter, Facebook, e-mail, etc.), be sure to let them know that you are "just spreading the Good News of Jesus' Saving Grace" and ministering in an effective, cultural relavent way.

Become a Doer of the Word

We’re all part of a story, and if the words of the Bible are supposed to have so much meaning, then there’s got to be something more than simply memorizing some verses or increasing our knowledge of what it is about. It is my goal to experience God's transforming truth by walking in the light of His truth. I don’t want my knowledge of the Bible--the words of God Himself—to just be interesting information. I want the Bible to affect my life. I desire to be a doer of the word.

I want the Bible to provide guidance when I need direction.

I want the Bible to provide comfort when I feel alone.

I want the Bible to provide hope when I feel hopeless.

I even want the Bible to convict me when I’m not walking in the Light.

If you want the Bible to affect your life, join me in reading God's Word daily at:

Essential Model for Youth Ministry

Based on Thom and Sam Rainer's book, Essential Church, there are four essential phases for churches and youth ministries to become essential and effective in the lives of individuals and the community... Essential to move from death to life... Essential to reclaim a generation of church and youth group dropouts. These phases can serve as a spring-board for an evaluation of our youth ministries and churches alike by asking some very simple questions.

How are we doing with...?

Simplify—the ministry develops a clear structure and process for making disciples.

Deepen—the ministry provides strong biblical teaching and preaching.

Expect—the ministry has an attitude that communicates to its members that they must be committed to the ministry.

Multiply—the ministry has an outward focus, driving to reach people for Christ and starting
new churches.

What can we do to align the ministry to reflect these basic essentials?

What can we expect by aligning with the essentials?

CELEBRATE GOD WITH US

We celebrate Christmas for the miracle that in Jesus, God is with us.

How has your life changed because God is with us? What hope does knowing that God is with us bring to your life?

3,2,1...Jump, Score, It's a World Record!!!

Checkout this amazing feat that is now a World Record!!! WOW!

12 Days of Christmas Down in Africa... Toto What?

Great tune to give you a holiday laugh. Sit back with a hot cup of cocoa and enjoy! Thanks for this one @shawnw!

Revelation Song

May you grasp the real meaning of this season as you watch this amazing video that needs no explanation. May God be glorified and hearts transformed... today is the day for salvation!

May the Force Be With You

May the Force be with you as you brave the lines at the local shopping centers looking for that perfect gift for that someone in your life. I will just pray that God will protect you from all the squirrels that are fighting over the last Wii game system and talking/dancing/do-the-dishes Elmo while I stay home drinking hot coffee and reading a the Gospel According to Jesus.

Don't Forget the Batteries!!!

Don't Mess with Granny

My friend Marybeth Stockdale posted this on her Facebook recently. I felt I needed to share some laughter with you today. Enjoy. God Bless!

No Glasses, Hats, Scarves — and even Smiles

MUNSTER, Ind. — The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is restricting glasses, hats, scarves — and even smiles — in driver's license photographs.

The new rules imposed last month are needed so that facial recognition software can spot fraudulent license applications, BMV officials told The Times of Northwest Indiana.

The software compares applicants' new photographs with old photographs on file to protect them from identity fraud, said BMV commissioner Ron Stiver.

"We take very seriously our responsibility to help protect the personal identity of Hoosiers, and the employment of this innovative technology is yet another important step forward in doing just that," Stiver said.

The new technology represents an advancement of what the BMV already was doing, agency spokesman Dennis Rosebrough said. BMV employees always have looked at the old photo of a person to see if it looked like the person seeking a new license.

Indiana is one of about 20 states using the facial recognition technology, he said, and other states have similar restrictions on driver's license photographs.


"We believe it's our responsibility to assure all Hoosiers the credentials we issue ... are as accurate as possible," Rosebrough said.

BMV officials want driver's license photographs to accurately show people's permanent facial features, Rosebrough said. That means glasses need to be removed. And if a person has hair hanging their face, it should be swept aside. Smiling can distort facial features measured by the software, Rosebrough said, so that is also restricted.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,463708,00.html

My First Mobile Blog

It is official. I have turned the tech corner by blogging with my Blackberry. Totally amazed by the versitility of all the technology available to bloggers today. May God be glorified by the use of such tools. Stay tuned to all future posts.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Lukewarmness... Continued!

Craig Groeschel's Follow-Up Blog post on Lukewarmness looks like this:

Question: What do you do when you realize you are lukewarm?

Answer: You do something drastic!

If some small change would have made the difference in your spiritual life, you would have made the change a long time ago.

You might:

• Start a seven day fast and devote extra time to seeking God.

• Take a sabbatical and pray like you haven’t in years.

• Confess to your spouse, your elders, or to trusted friends and ask for help.

• Seek spiritual counseling from another pastor or counselor.

• Take the week off and go to a hotel alone with no cell phone, no computer, and no books but the Bible.

• Read a Children’s Bible and pretend like you’re hearing the gospel story for the very first time.

• Repent to your family for your lack of spiritual passion and leadership.

• Tell your church honestly that you are struggling and invite them to pray for you.

• You might turn off your computer now and go somewhere and cry and repent deeply.

Whatever you do, it should be drastic and you should do it before another voice talks you out of it.

My Year-End Self-Evaluation

Craig Groeschel recently posted some signs of a lukewarm pastor. Since lukewarmness is something detested by our Lord, I think an effective year-end self-evaluation can be created from the points following:

Do I pray as much, or more, publicly than privately?
Am I almost exclusively dependent on others’ sermons to preach than directly hearing from God?
Do I care more about my church than The Church?
Do I preach about evangelism but not practice evangelism privately?
Do I tolerate and rationalize unconfessed sin?
Do I preach for the approval of people rather than the approval of God?
Am I overly sensitive to criticism?
Do I harbor bitterness and unforgiveness?
Do I read the Bible to prepare sermons but not for personal devotion to God?
Am I jealous or critical of someone else that God is blessing?

Do you see any of this in yourself?

According to Craig, a lukewarm pastor:
Prays as much, or more, publicly than privately.
Is almost exclusively dependent on others’ sermons to preach than directly hearing from God.
Cares more about his church than The Church.
Preaches about evangelism but doesn’t practice evangelism privately.
Tolerates and rationalizes unconfessed sin.
Preaches for the approval of people rather than the approval of God.
Is overly sensitive to criticism.
Harbors bitterness and unforgiveness.
Reads the Bible to prepare sermons but not for personal devotion to God.
Is jealous or critical of someone else that God is blessing.

Bruce Wayne... Batman... Dead!!!

Bruce Wayne — who by night is Batman — gets murdered by a man claiming to be the father he thought was dead.

In a highly controversial new comic book storyline, Bruce, who first appeared in 1939, is killed by Simon Hurt — the leader of the shady Black Glove organization.

Simon claims he is really Dr Thomas Wayne, saying he faked his own passing when Bruce was a child.

The superhero dies when he tries to stop his foe escaping by helicopter in the new comic Batman R.I.P.

"This is so much better than death. People have killed characters in the past but to me, that kind of ends the story!" said writer Grant Morrison.

"I like to keep the story twisting and turning," he added. "So what I am doing is a fate worse than death. Things that no one would expect to happen to these guys at all.

"This is the end of Bruce Wayne as Batman."

Help With Autism Research

Check out "What that kind of world do you want?" This web-site will distribute approximately 90% of money donated to selected charities. Watching the video will contribute $.49 per play.

Student Impact at the Luminate Concert

A great time was had by all the Impact Students at the Luminate Concert held at Crossroads in Sullivan. Great sound; Great tunes! Way to go guys!!!

New "Extreme" Activity For the Office

Don't think I could get Pastor Rich to participate, esp. if I was doing the jumping!!! Accident waiting to happen. Maybe a Jr. Higher???

10 Reasons Why You’re Probably Going to Fail
Author: Tony Morgan

I’ve experienced failures. I’ve watched others fail. I’m guessing you’ve seen plenty as well. This morning I tried to think through some common reasons why failure happens. I’m looking forward to some healthy conversation on this one. With that, here are:

10 Reasons Why You’re Probably Going to Fail

1. It’s not your passion. If it doesn’t make your heart beat fast or cause your mind to race when you’re trying to sleep, you’re probably doing the wrong thing.

2. You don’t have a plan. You need a vision, and you need to identify specific steps to make that vision become reality. That includes a financial plan. (I happen to believe you need direction from God on this.)

3. You’re waiting for it to be perfect. Test-drive it. Beta-test that new idea. You’ll fall into the trap of inaction if you think it has to be absolutely right from day one.

4. You’re not willing to work hard. Everything worth pursuing in my life has involved discipline and perseverance.

5. It’ll outgrow you. Keep learning. Keep growing. But more importantly, build a team of people including leaders that can be who you’re not.

6. You’ve had success in the past. I’ve watched organizations hang on to a good idea for too long. Time passes. Momentum fades. It’s risky to let go of the past and jump on the next wave.

7. You’re unwilling to stop doing something else. Complexity is easy. Simplicity takes discipline.
You can’t build a healthy marriage if you’re unwilling to give up dating other women. Who/what do you need to stop dating?

8. You won’t build a team of friends. Anyone can hire from a resume. You need to find people you want to share life with. In the long run, great relationships will get you out of bed in the morning.

9. You won’t have the tough conversations. When breakdown happens (and it always does), someone needs to put on their big-boy pants and initiate the difficult conversation that leads to relational healing.

10. You’re afraid of failure. When fear consumes you, it will cause you to do stupid things. You’ll let negativity distract you. You’ll embrace the known, and grow comfortable with mediocrity. The more often you fail, though, the more often you’ll find success.

Here’s the deal. I don’t think this list is just about personal failure. This is about organizational failure (your ministry, your church plant, etc.). This is about business failure (your start up, your turnaround effort, etc.). This is about relational failure (your marriage, your dating relationship, etc.). The same principles apply.

Now it’s your turn. What else should be on the list? What are some other ingredients for failure you’ve experienced or witnessed? What would you add/delete from the list?

For other great posts, checkout:
http://tonymorganlive.com

Generation "Me"

Today's American high school students are far likelier than those in the 1970s to believe they'll make outstanding spouses, parents and workers, new research shows.

They're also much more likely to claim they are "A" students with high IQs -- even though other research shows that today's students do less homework than their counterparts did in the 1970s.
The findings, published in the November issue of Psychological Science, support the idea that the "self-esteem" movement popular among today's parents and teachers may have gone too far, the study's co-author said.

"What this shows is that confidence has crossed over into overconfidence," said Jean Twenge, an associate professor of psychology at San Diego State University.

Read More:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20081112/hl_hsn/usteensbrimmingwithselfesteem

By E.J. Mundell
HealthDay Reporter – Wed Nov 12, 5:02 pm ET

Many Bitten by the Twilight Soundtrack

The soundtrack to the upcoming teen vampire romance Twilight debuts at #1 on The Billboard 200. Twilight is the first soundtrack to hit #1 in advance of the movie's release since 8 Mile six years ago. And I just thought the books were all the rave.

What if Starbucks Marketed like the Church

Much can be learned from the Starbucks Marketing Strategy.

Live 2008 Election Results

Toy Story Meets Dark Knight

This is one of the best mix-up I've seen in some time!!! So many creative people, so little viewer time!