Our Little Star

So today was Ella's Christmas performance. She is our little 5 year old. She was the star. Now obviously every parent thinks their kid is the star, but really she was the STAR. As in she had a star costume on and hovered out by the manger scene on the stage. The wisemen followed her and she stood there with a star outfit on smiling as bright as she could. Every once in a while she would brush the hair out of her eyes, or yawn. Hey stars get tired too, don't they? This week she said she was nervous because she was going to be standing in a costume on stage. We told her not to worry because everyone else would have costumes too. However, we didn't realize she was the "STAR". The only star that brought the wisemen to Jesus in Bethlehem in the Christmas story. What a great role in the story. We are so proud of our little star, Ella. As she was in her Christmas play, we believe that she will be used throughout her life to bring many people to Jesus in her life time. That is our prayer and hope as we pray for our kids to grow into adults who are passionate about Jesus. So as we read the Christmas story out of the Bible this year, we will make some extra special time to talk about the importance of the star, and how it lead people to Jesus. Our desire would be to have each of our kids be "stars" in their own life and the journeys of many other lives.

Don't Worry...Choose Not Too

When I was in junior high there was a catchy tune called Don't Worry Be Happy, sung by Bobby McFerrin. It was an 80s one-hit wonder. The song had a catchy tune and a great video that made it a success. Bobby McFerrin though, eventually got tired of singing it though. It actually caused him to fret. An encouraging word came to me today regarding WORRY. In the books of Matthew and Luke, Jesus encourages us not to worry. Worry is defined as follows: to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts; fret. In the book of Psalms the writer encourages us that the Lord is a refuge to the oppressed. A "stronghold" where we can find comfort. The passage goes onto say, "Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." The last portion of that verse is an amazing thought to let sink in. I know times can be tough, and life's situations can be challenging, confusing and/or demanding. But it is through these times we can find strength and grow in ways we never thought we could. When we take the efforts and attitudes in which we can so easily worry, and turn them into attitudes of faith and opportunties to grow, we will not worry. Here is a great prayer to close out this thought...
Gracious Father, thank you for the many good and perfect gifts you have given me.
Thank you for the family I have, the resources you have provided and the doors of opportunity you have opened to me. I rejoice in the way you have given a reason for living.
Today, I choose to exchange my worry for worship. I choose to trade my sorrows for singing.
I choose to replace my anxieties for assurance.
I choose to believe that you will protect, provide and promote me today.
I choose to believe that you will turn my burdens into blessings.
In the name of the one who is called, Prince of Peace, JESUS!

The MEANING of the INK

This past week I sat in the chair of a tatto artist and got myself inked. It was something I have wanted to do for a while. I wanted to make sure that the ink was meaningful and a constant remider of something I value forever. I decided I would ink my arm with something that God has done for me. It was important to me to be able to have a conversation starter from my ink as well. As I approached the 10 year anniversary of my brain surgery to remove a tumor, and the 10 year of being seizure free-I had made up my mind. I would ink my arm with the original Hebrew letting that declares "THE LORD WHO HEALS". This is the name of God that is known as Yahweh Rophe, found in scripture in Exodus 15:26. Above the lettering, you will find a crown of thorns, which carries another meaning for me. It is symbolic of the ultimate healing that Christ took to the cross for my sin and healed me. I had met with Matthew, my tatoo artist a two weeks earlier, and got my design which I was stoked about. Someone over prepared and over-psyched me for the pain factor, which I found to be very minimal. I did get a little weak in the first ten minutes, but nothing a glass of water and a few chocolates took away. It wasn't that bad for a guy who hates needles. So, the ink now has a permanent place on my right arm(the side of my brain scar). It will now be a constant reminder that I serve a God who has completely healed me, and I will be reminded every time I flex my right gun in the mirror.

Tigers with NO Accountability will Morph into Cheetahs.

Accountability is a big word that some of us know is there for us, and some of us know it is not. Let's have a brief history lesson on no accountability starting now...no accountability has led to the fall of Enron, the collapse of the Nation's economy, high profile elected officials dumbing down their crime, athletes caught doping, and this week a Tiger humiliating his entire family. When you type in "accountability" to GOOGLE, you will get 6 million hits, when you type in "lack of accountability" you get over 10 million. There is a problem in culture and it surrounds not being held in account to the things we, as individuals, are responsible for. We have shifted every problem of ours, to be everyone else's problem. A high profile athlete who cheats on his wife will probably claim he is a sex-addict, or maybe had a lapse in judgment(a lapse 10x I might add, and as I write this, but could be 20x by the time I'm done with this sentence the way the flood gates have opened). But hey, the money whore$ are just as at fault for sleeping with a married man, right? Again no accountability on their part. Now some will not bring this up, but I thought I would. When are people going to man up and say, "hey I put the wrong people around me", or "I didn't put anyone around me to hold me accountable." This week I had a friend call and ask me to keep him accountable. Accountable to his code of ethics, his wife, his kids, the Word of God, and said, "man I need someone to ask me the tough questions to keep me straight so I don't mess up". He asked me because he is vulnerable to messing up, just like me, and just like you. The ability to put people around you that are not "YES MEN", but rather real friends with your interest at heart, will take you far and keep you straight. But what we have seen the past few weeks is a champion Tiger, morph into a fast running cheetah. Yeah, avoiding the media when your one of the biggest names in the World, not too smart pal. The point is not that he screwed up, the point is he didn't have the right people around him to keep him from screwing up. So, I ask you, who is around you to keep you accountable in your relationships, your marriage, your business, your finances, your decisions, your future. If you can't think of anyone, you should start thinking through your friends who could walk with you. If you can't think of a friend who would be of help...get some new friends. Here are some great questions to be asked regarding accountablity: - Have you compromised your integrity in any way? Has your thought life been pure? Have you committed any sexual sin? - Have you spent time with God on a regular basis? Did you put yourself in an awkward situation with a woman? What did you do this week to enhance your relationship with your spouse and/or child(ren)? How have you been tempted this week? How did you respond? How has your relationship with Christ been changing?
Did you worship in church this week? What are you wrestling with in your thought life? Are the "visible" you and the "real" you consistent? Have you just lied to me in any of the above questions?

Leadership in 26.2

As you know this past month I completed a marathon. Upon reflection of the accomplishment and then getting back into the normal routine of life, I was able to draw some parallels to leadership. In the process of preparing for this marathon came a lot of motivation, effort, instruction, research, healthy choices, and carving out time to prepare myself for a run of this magnitude. Before I ran 26.2, the longest I had ever run was 17 miles, and that was only 4 weeks prior to the marathon. Leadership and training for a marathon have a lot of similarities. You see, we are training and running after goals in leadership too. Time will show you the leaders who have come and gone, and those who are future leaders are already training themselves. For one to accomplish goals, we must implement disciplines and training as leaders. Discipline is short for discipleship. We have people sitting in our tribes, groups, teams that we need to develop a workout plan for, and that may include you. This workout plan will help them in their spiritual health and growth. As I sat back and thought about what a workout plan may look like for a Christ follower who sits in a position of leadership, I came up with some key exercises and ideas to train in. There are FIVE areas to focus on. Believe me, it is not as difficult as the science of a running shoe; but there are tools that will be used to help us train in each of these areas. The 5 areas are: The Word of God, Prayer, Fellowship, Telling people about Jesus through Evangelism, and Coaches who will help keep us accountable. Much like training for a marathon, it is time for leaders to develop in their leadership in these areas. Time must be carved out of a schedule, the health of a leader must be checked on, proper technique must be learned, and on-going training must accompany any leader. So, in 26.2 you can learn a lot about leadership. Not everyone can run a marathon, and so it is true-not every one is cut out to be a leader. But there are some who will run, and there are those who will lead...and then a few who may do both in their lifetime.

CircumTHANKses

I'm watching my 7 year old shoot hoops in the pouring rain, with his grandpa right now. They are playing H-O-R-S-E in the driveway. It is 45 degrees outside and it is pouring rain, but they are having fun. I am thankful that I can observe and even join in the fun in a few moments. I was reminded this morning at 6am how blessed I am, when two little girls burst through the door to wake me up. I read this passage of scripture today. "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I Thes. 5:18. As I reflected on this verse today, I am reminded that it is God through Jesus, that guides, provides, and multiplies when I am walking in His will. Walking in His will can be a challenge and confusing at times, but I will say that the benefits far outweigh the struggles and circumstances that come and are not always fun. I have found that when I praise and thank God for the circumstances in my life, I find myself on a path of growth. So today, I choose to THANK God for the circumstances that come my way and opportunities to grow from them. Looking forward to today, I will find myself in conversations with people that I will benefit from, and situations that I will grow from. CircumTHANKses are these everyday circumstances that I am thankful for and will grow from. Yesterday, I was taught patience...again...this time driving in traffic...again. Today, I embark on what circumstances that come my way that I am THANKful for. How about you? What circumstances can you grow from today, be stretched by, or challenged with? The important thing is to GIVE THANKS...because from this point it will be a conscious choice to understand God's will for your life...and I'm sure when you recognize this, you will be thankful.

CREATIVITY-YA GOT, NOW USE IT

This morning I drove two 2nd graders to school. On the way to school they were talking about the books they were writing. As they spoke I heard this amazing creativity flowing from their minds. The twists & plots to their stories were comical, genius, and super creative. As I listened, I thought to myself about how each of us were created with creativity in our being. In the Bible, the 5th word gives us one of the very natures of God. In Genesis 1:1 God invented it...Jesus modeled it with parables and life lessons...and in II Corithians 3:17 the Holy Spirit empowers it. The beauty is that we can each create. It is in each of our DNA. I find that for creativity to flow in me, I have to get into a different environment than I normally am in, and I too need a blank canvas to work from. I have friends around me that I think are creative geniuses. As I listened to these 2nd graders this morning it reminded me that creativity should flow in all of us. There are times were it sits bottled up inside me, and times I fail to pull the level on my God-given creativity. But what I have found is that when creativity is unleashed it inspires others and as it did to me today, challenged me to think creatively. CREATIVITY...you don't have to be a 2nd grader talking about the adventures of the missing restaurant or the new invention that will make school go by faster, you just need to be you-the creative being you are.

I did what less than 1% of the world has done.

I ran the NYC Marathon. As I finished, I was awarded a medal for finishing. Less than 1% of the human race will actually ever finish a marathon. I am now one of thosee stats. I am stoked to be in that stat. Coolness friends, major coolness. I was hurting as I stopped running. After I crossed the line I was whisked away into a foil suit to keep me warm, I was given a gatorade, bagel, and an apple. My legs hurt real bad. I walked through Central Park and was greeted by the fam. I was ready to chill for the night and chill I did. I had some time to reflect on what the feeling was like to actually runa a marathon. I must say, I knew then I had accomplished a dream and I could say only a few things, but one of them was "Phil, You are the man." Yes I am. As I reflected, I realized that New Yorkers are cool peeps, and I think the church should take the example of the support that was given to complete strangers and do the same when we see people hurting. How many times have I seen people walk into church with their head down, wincing, and maybe even in some pain that is being hidden by a smile that looks like it was painted on, the moment the door to their car shut. All that to say, is walking away there are many life lessons that can be applied to the training, the pace, the folks, and the finale. I took away a memory that will last a life time, and maybe the desire to run one more in my lifetime. We'll see how that dream turns out. I would run it with fans and friends for sure. But hey, I have bragging rights and I'll soak it in for a few more days.

A MARATHON IS NOT A RACE

During my marathon, I started strong. I ran 9:50 minute miles for the first 10k. I was stride for stride with my sis. My goal of finishing was within reach. About Mile 9, though, my back of my knee started hurting. I knew it may flare up, but it actually hurt bad. So, there I was running and starting to get some pain. I ran the first half of the marathon in 2:16-right on target. I ran until mile 16 with my sis. I knew she had desires to shatter 4:30 in the marathon, and wihle we started that pace, I couldn't keep it up. So, I told her to fly ahead, leave me a gel pack and go for it. I called her babe, which she didn;t care for, but hey she is my sis-and i was proud of her too. She took off and would have made her record if it wasn't for me in the miles from 9-16. those 7 miles she ran with me, made her miss her mark, but I knew she cared to make sure I was good. I had no question about finishing, I didn't train all those months, fly out to NY, to fail. Plus determination is something that I carry as a value. I ran in so much pain, there was one point where I was almost crying. Plus the emotion of running 10 years and 7 days to the date of my brain surgery made this event so surreal. I soaked it in, every mile. I ran with a guy who ended up living 7 miles away from me. I will say I was not winded, but I was in pain. Gatorade, a gel, a banana, and water kept me hydrated. I did find a wall of somesort between mile 18-23. Those were some long miles. Quieter crowds and a cute Jewish community who was there but not vocal at all-duh, it was their Sabbath. I guess I run better when people were cheering me on. My time eventaully fluctuated down to 12:47 minute miles. I didn't know it at the time, but I knew I was slowing down. I made it into Manhattan with people yelling my name like crazy. They could see i was in pain. They must have, because I was wincing in pain. I made it down 5th Avenue headed toward Central Park. I found my dad in the crowd and stopped to take a pic and hang out. Then I proceeded to the last mile. One more and I was done. The pain was still there and I pushed through. I realized that in life, people run like life is a race. Sorry, but I prefer to run like a marathon. Slow down enjoy life and soak in the scenery and people around you. If you try to run the marathon like a sprint, you are either crazy or dead quicker than you want to be. The bands kept me going, the New Yorkers from all the burroughs, the cheers, and the realization that crossing the finish line was the desired goal and eventual outcome. The finish line is the goal, one that I knew I would cross, and cross it I did. In 5:34 minutes. It was amazing.

Church People Should Be Like New Yorkers

I'm running the NYC marathon and someone suggested that I write my name on my shirt. So, I did. At mile 1, people started cheering for us by name. I was on stride with my sis. It was a totally cool thing to run with my sis. I ran steady for miles. We left Staten Island and the Verranzo-Narows bridge and headed toward Brooklyn. I couldn't help but engage the crowd as I ran. They were cheering my name and little kids were hi-fiving the runners. So, I soaked the crowd in. We hit Brooklyn and I was yelling "big ups Brooklyn." I think the crowd loved me because they all kept yelling my name and at times were chanting it. Phil...Phil...Phil...come on Phil you're doing awesome. We passed a few bands along the way and life was great. I was so encouraged. I thought what if the church, responded to those they didn't even know with the love that New Yorkers were showing the runners? Church would be a place where everyone was excepted, no one was judging you, and people genuinely had the best interest for you...to complete the race. As we headed through and my place slowed, I was met with cheers and encouragement like I have never received from people I had never met. I got hugs, people gave me nutrition, water, kids cheered, teens cheered, adults yelled, and every ethnicity was rooting me and 40,000+ runners on. It was as if we were family. As a matter of fact, I felt closer to some complete strangers than I do some people in my own church. It is a weird feeling but one I think the church could learn from. People really wanted me to succeed, to dream, to finish the race strong. It was an amazing expereince, and I may be crazy but I would do it again...in a second.

A 26.2 Dream

Sunday, I was up bright and early and ready to roll off to Staten Island. I caught a cab with my sis and took off to meet the Sanctuary for Families marathon team. We arrived at Staten Island and I must admit it was like a concentration camp. There were 40,000+ people being directed by speakers that spoke in every language except English, until i had been there for about 20 minutes. My bib # was in the 57,000+ range and I was there to hang for 3 hours before I even left. Eventually the DREAM I had set two years ago was about to become a reality. It was a surreal expereince. I had carbed up the night before on a huge PASTA meal. That morning I had plenty of carbs and sugars. I was ready. I made my way to the corral where I was one of thousands. I was ready, I threw off my pink Dunkin Donuts beanie, my Goodwill Nike sweats and a grey sweatshirt that I was cool with losing. I stretched and was ready to run. We made our way to the starting line and then we were off. A dream was about to come true. The gun shot off and I started and it was about 50 degrees, but the adrenaline was pumping and I was ready to run. I had taped my name on my shirt, and I would later be so glad I did.

OCT 25, 1999

Day of the surgery was jsut like any other day, except I was up early. The only thing I really remember about the morning was the doctor giving me a dose of medication to knock me out, and that is the last thing i remember until after surgery. I woke up in some room, and asked the nurse if I could have some water. He replied, "what did you say?" I was like my mouth is cotton, I need some water. Then I asked to see my family, and wanted a controller as there was a Blazer game on that night. Surgery was a blast, as I remember nothing. So, that means it was good, right? I guess medicine does some pretty wacky stuff to you, because I was a kick on the meds. I had a talk with my grandparents about Viagra, flashed my man parts to go to the bathroom while members of the fam were present. Hey, what can I say? I do remember a few things...I haven't had a surgery since. I did have a cool wrap on my head that would have made any Muslim jealous. I also have a backward question mark scar that is still evident and a cliff on the side of my head that is sweetness. The doctor upon review asked if I wanted it fixed, but I passed. They did pull a tumor from my right temporal lobe that was the size of an egg. It was pretty remarkable. All in all, my brain surgery was a success and some 10 YEARS LATER I AM STILL SEIZURE FREE. When I woke up in my recovery room, there was a scripture that was on my white board. It read, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, ag you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." That verse has been my life verse since. A day that will be celebrated for the rest of my life, is the last day I ever had a seizure. OCTOBER 25, 1999.

THE DAY BEFORE BRAIN SURGERY

The day before brain surgery was a Sunday. I remember it well, as I was a junior high pastor and we had church that day. We met in the gym in that day and we we did a little head shaving ceremony to get everyone ready for the surgery. I had one of my great friends, Mark, come in and cut the hair off. A few boys in the youth group decided they would cut their hair off too. It was a cool moment despite the day that was to follow. I was in a mood to celebrate but in no mood to celebrate. I know an oxymoron, but really my emotions were mixed. I didn't want pictures or anything, something I would later regret. I had plenty of tests to prepare for this major brain surgery. They cut my speech off while I was fully able to function. they ran a test that tested my short term memory, which they took away and I couldn't remember anything after 90 seconds. It was crazy stuff. But I was ready for surgery and wanted to be over with. If I needed to be rehabilitated, then lets get it on. My life would go on, and I was ready to stop having seizures forever. I just wanted sure how this was going to go. I wasn't really scared I was just wondering how I would recover.

A Hit-N-Run Wakeup Call in MAY

After college I moved back home to Portland, OR. It was cool, I moved in with a friend for a month out of prode and not wanting to live at home after living the last four years on my own. But when I realized I could live at home for free, it was a no brainer. I worked 2 jobs and took on an internship, which led to my first ministry job as junior high pastor at Portland Christian Center. I still had occasional seizures here and there, but nothing major. I started dating my future wife, Jenelle, in 1998. She was the first to really see me have a seizure at the magnitude they had started to come to. She explained what I thought was happening and what she saw were two different things. In the Spring of 1999, Iwas hanging out with two boys from our student ministry when I noticed a gash down the side of my driver side door on my 1993 Pontiac Grand Am. We had just been hanging out over pizza, and when I dropped them off, is when I noticed it. I even said something to them and their mom, as she came out to see what we were looking at. I was ticked, to say the least. I was all about keeping my car clean and scratch free. This was a dent as if someone hit me in the parking lot and kept on driving...at least that is what I thought.
Two days later Portland Police called me at my new house Jenelle and I had just purchased a month berfore getting married. I picked up the phone and spoke with an officer from the police department. As we talked, I was under the impression someone had called in a hit-n-run on someone bumping my vehicle. I was stoked...for about 5 seconds, when the officer said, "No, you were the one who hit and ran." I responded with a "WHAT"? He said he would like to talk to me and look at my car. So, I met him at the church I worked at, and answered a slew of questions related to the "date" the accident was reported. I had no idea what he was talking about, and the interection it took place at was one I knewof, but barely ever drove through.
After he left, I was walking up to the offices of the church. My dad worked there and so I made a bee line for his office. On the way there, it hit me that I may have had a seizure while driving and actually been at fault. I was freaking out. I was a month from being married and the police were investigating me for a hit-n-run that I don't remember.
I drove to the scene of the crime and the realization of what had happened hit me like a flash back. I remember ending up on a road that I didn't intend to be on, and I remember following a red Jeep down it. It was right there that I knew I had been involved in this accident, but the crazy thing was I remembered the road, a red jeep, and that was it. The accident report read that I had side-swiped a lady's car knocking off the side mirror as I passed her in her Ford Thunderbird. SO, it was right then I knew I had to see the doctor. So, the appointment was set for mid-July, right after our honeymoon.

Epilepsy-The College Years

This week I celebrate the 10 year anniversary of my brain surgery. So, I bring you a series of blogs that refelct my journey leading up to the surgery. At age 18, I left home for college. I didn't just go up the street, I traveled 17 hours away from home to beautiful Southern California. This would be the first time I would be away from home with a seizure disorder not under supervision. I took college in stride. I welcomed the freedom and thoroughly enjoyed the overall experience. The seizures were pretty mellow through college and weren't really a major distraction. I hid the fact that I had what was diagnosed as "partial complex seizures". A few close friends were aware of the meds I was on, and I only explained it if it was necessary. With partial complex seizures, I would not convulse, but I would have these "dizzy spells" were I would have my short term memory affected for no more than 20 seconds. I was on medication and if there were side effects, which vomiting was one, I would normally be able to play it off as if I was sick, or ate something. No harm, no foul. If I did have a seizure, I was able to play those off as well. I did visit the doctor on occasion when I returned home to Portland throughout college. Not much changed, but I did learn that I could function pretty well and hide my disorder. Throughout college I maintained great grades, was invovled in campus life on numerous levels, and managed to get through in 4 years. 4 years that were at the time the best 4 of my life. By the end of college a few friends knew that something wasn't right, but for the most part I managed to mask my disorder from even some of my closer friends. I did so out of fear that people would start to look for them and ask if I was having them, as I did. So, the plan was this- the less people know, the better.

Epilepsy: How it all Began- A Brain Surgery Countdown

The year was 1990, and my family was at Red Robin. My dad, mom, and two younger sisters were enjoying a family night out. My mom noticed my behavior change for a minute, where I went into a zone, and what I recall was more like a dizzy spell, where everything went into slow motion. Didn't think anything of it, and went on with life as a high school freshman. For a while doctors struggled to get a grip on what was happening to me when slow motion started. After a few appts, they finally came up with a diagnosis-epilepsy. Not a word I really wanted to hear or attached to me. After all, I was a 14 year old kid, who had a bright future ahead of me. I was a starter on the freshman basketball team and pulling down a 4.0 GPA. So, they took me in and scanned my brain. They didn't find a thing, well a brain and some cells, but nothing to be too concerned over. They put me on some light meds and off I went to live my life. Live it, I did. For the next 4 years, high school was all it was supposed to be...sports, dances, friends, homework, a job, girlfriends, leadership, church, and a license to drive. Through it all nothing stopped me from becoming the normal kid who lived life to the fullest, enjoying every opportunity to be the center of attention. Although, through it all these dizzy spells would not go away. The medication helped, a little. Life happened and I enjoyed every minute of it. There was only one or two times I remember really being affected by these dizzy spells and both took place on the basketball courts. Once when I didn't have the ball, and once when I did. Easy enough to call a timeout and tell coach to take myself out of the game. Nothing major. At 16 I passed my driving test with flying colors and within days of turning 16, was driving a red Plymouth Barracuda all over. No complaints, except for these dumb little dizzy spells every once in a while.
High school ended and it was off to college. Being on my own was going to be freeing, rad, and one of the most exciting times in my life. Stay tuned as I bring you the college life rundown of life as an epileptic.

FOR SUCH A TIME IS THIS!

One of the most quoted scriptures in the book of Esther is in 4:14. It is here in the story of Esther that Mordecai reminds her that she has been placed in this position at this time, so she could make a difference. This week I was reminded 3 different times about the story of Esther. I watched a movie entitled "One Night with the King", heard our pastor mention the story a day later, and then happenend upon my devotional reading the story(assigned by a date that coincided with this week). This week I decided to look at my own life and see where God has placed me. So, I stepped back and made some observations. God has created me and positioned me to be a husband, father, pastor, friend, coach, and encourager. I thought of the fabulous wife God put in my life, and the companion that she has become over the years. I played with my kids, and thought of what an incredible responsibility and joy they bring me. I spent some time with the ECC team, where I work this week and realized that God has placed each of them in my life, and I in theirs for such a time is this. I gleam something from everyone that is in my life right now. I know that God has a plan for me, and at times in the last 20 years I have questioned that over and over. But this week, I came to a point in my maturity journey, that I am where I am because God is carving me, using the people I come in contact with everyday, every month, and the occasionial bump from someone who reminds me why I am on this planet of 6 billion people. There are times I wrestle with all that happens in my head and question why it happens, but I truly believe that when I accept God's positioning me for such a time is this, it is my opportunity to gain wisdom, influence when the opportunity arises, and listen to the people around me. I've been on a lot of teams in my life and I loved my role on each one, whether I am a starter, leader, or back up. I love being a part of teams. I'm just glad I'm on those teams, for such a time is this. Maybe a great action to take for you, is to see where you have been placed, and ask yourself these questions: Who am I influencing in my current realities? Who is around me challenging me in various aspects of my life? What areas can I grow in? Am I willing to be stretched?

Harvesting Dreams

It is hard to believe Fall is upon us. As I was reading scripture today, I was reminded of the season and what it brings-a harvest. Psalm 126 speaks of a pilgrimage. Like so many people today, these people were held captive. As their nation and world was falling around them, they fell into a state of somberness. Then, upon being freed, they are once free to dream again and agian. Dream to the point of laughter and joy. Have you ver been there? What was once a dark time, is now filled with songs of joy. These people realize that through freedom they are able to dream again, and through dreaming they will be able to reap a harvest. Their new found dream state puts them in a trance like state. As if they were in REM sleep. While they dream, they realize that it was God who raised themn out of this captive state of mind. Yes, they went through times of sorrow, but they realize that it is not the end, but only a means to the end. In this song, you will find a prayer, a song, and a promise. The promise is this...when we put effort into our dreams and we take time to carry the seed to sow, we will see our dreams harvested. God is giving us a new lease on life, it is our responsibility. We may sow sorrow, but we will reap rejoicing.

NOT SO PERFECT

This week there were a number of instances of people in the public eye, who made their imperfection known. There was Serena Williams in the US Open who reamed a line judge, Senator Joe Wilson who called President Obama, in all essence a "liar", and the infamous Kanye West, who hijacked Taylor Swift's VMA acceptance speech, to pretty much say "Beyonce should have won". (stay classy Kanye) So, we live in a world where we are not so perfect. This week, as my 7 year old and I were playing some Wii baseball, he hit a home run to win the game. He then looked over to me with a look of half smiles and half confidence and says, "Ha dad, you are not always so perfect." I smiled, as I knew he was just having fun with me, and then thought about the truth to that statement. WOW, that statement is so true. I am the first to point out my imperfection. It made me think of Philippians 3:12- "Not that I have already obtained this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ took hold of me." I am not so perfect, but I do strive with ambition looking at what the prize is and know that I am made perfect through Jesus Christ. So, although losing in Wii baseball may make my son believe tht dad is imperfect, I know that that is just the tip of the iceberg; however, I aim to grasp the resurrection and the power of Jesus. It is humbling, but it is also a part of the discipleship journey I am constantly sharpening.

The Ghost and the Darkness

Have you ever had your past used against you? Satan does a pretty good job at trying to throw your past wrongs in your face and try to make you think you are worthless. I Peter 5:8 says, "Be sober, be vigilante, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." The Greek word for "vigilant" is gregoreo, which means to be on your guard, to be watchful. The purpose of that word is to denote the watchful attitude of one who is on the lookout to make sure no enemy can penetrate any part of their life. This tells us that we should be on high alert. Peter reminds us that Satan is going to be aggresive in his attacks. Peter then goes onto use another interesting word "adversary". The Gk word is antidikos, which literally means a lawyer who argued in a court of law. A prosecutor who brought offenders to court and and argued against them. This is a great image of what the devil does when he strikes. If he can convince us of what he says, he has won. It is the way he does it. He poses as a ghost in the darkness, and attacks when we aren't ready or accuses to the point where we buy his lies. The word devour in the Gk is pino, which means to lick, to drink, or slurp up, as in a lion licking the blood of its prey. That is the way the devil works. However, Peter reminds us in the next verse that we have an out when the enemy comes roaring. "resist him, by standing firm in the faith." If you apply this you can literally stand alert and be ready when the Satan comes out of the darkness, and then with God's authority and Jesus' name turn the hunter into the hunted.

WHY SMALL GROUPS MUST BE "R" RATED

The three most important words in small group multiplication is RELATIONSHIP, RELATIONSHIP, RELATIONSHIP. There are plenty of "R" words that we don't want small groups to be about...like...ritual, religious, rules, and repetitious. People are in life transition about this time of season with school starting back up, church shoppers hunting for new ones, new jobs, new neighbors, and other transitions taking place like crazy. So, it is naturally a great time to reflect on Jesus as a leader, and use His example of multiplication. Jesus was about hanging with people. Inviting them for water, or offering a friendly talk to those no one else would even consider talking with. The heartbeat of God is relationship. God is about covenant...and that spells relationship. Yes, the people who we see as faith heroes in the Bible did incredible things like kill lions, knock down walls, and won battles. However, they were all about relationship and were heroes because their faith spilled over with "R"elationship. We have to be careful that the "program" doesn't become relationship, we need to become relationship. As we dive into small groups this Fall, we need to think about relationship. We will multiply as we get out and build relationship with people, new, old, and everywhere in the middle. The vision of small groups is simplified into one-word: MULTIPLICATION. To initiate this, we must get out and be about relationship. In the housing market the phrase is "location, location, location". In small group life it is "relationship, relationship, relationship." Go introduce yourself to someone and talk to them. This is how LIFE happens, this is how TRANSFORMATION starts. For small groups to grow, we must be "R" rated.

DREAMS & A MARATHON

Two years ago I sat down and wrote out 100 dreams. I divided them up into 12 different catagories. Family related, health related, technology dreams, and some were life long adventures I would like to take, while some were simple dreams of upgrading technology I owned. Some of the items on my "DREAMS LIST" were things that would push me to be determined, work hard, and excel in areas I had not trained for. One of those dreams was to run a marathon. Don't ask me why I wrote that down. I must have been sleep deprived, or not paying attention. But I did, and it got me pumped up to stay healthy. This year, I devoted my time to training and running. Well, my work has paid off I have been officially accepted into the New York City Marathon. That is right 26.2 miles. I have not run a marathon ever, and the last time I ran competitively I was in 6th grade, winning a 100 meter dash. I have remained active in other sports, and have started training for longer runs. I am excited to be running with my bro-in-law Bryan, and on a team for Sanctuary for Families. This is a non-profit shelter for batter and abused women and children. I have teamed with them to run for them and raise support for their ministry. So, if you happen to be driving through Olympia and you see a flash of white lightning, it is not me, for I have learned a marathon is about pace not speed, kind of like the rest of the dreams I hope to accomplish and have put before me.

Living Dangerously

Tonight, I took the girls down to our city's annual summer fair, Lakefair. I had a chance to walk with my 4 year old, and take her on some rides. I made sure Ella held my hand and with all the people around it could be somewhat dangerous letting a little girl run wild down there with such a crowd. As a dad, I always am overprotective of my kids, for obvious reasons. We walked over to the city fountain where all the kids were playing as the weather was still in the 70s at 6pm. Audrey, our youngest danced to the music playing nearby and ran through the fountain a few times. It was a great family night. There was one point where I went on the Ferris Wheel with Ella. We stopped at the top. Now I am not fond of heights, and for the first 10 seconds I was more scared than Ella. Then she kind of took my fear away and started telling me that I would be ok. First, I was like "Phil you need to man up." I breathed, smiled, and thought man I want my kids to not be afraid of life. I would never put them in harm's way, but there will be things that come their way, that may be tough, and when they do i'll be the little voice saying, It's all right, it'll be ok." Tonight my little girl gave me a good little lesson in not being so afraid. After the first few moments the rest of the ride was calm, smooth, and a blast to hang with my little princess.

Birthday Celebration

On my 16th birthday, I was given a surprise party. It wasn't until some 14 years later, that I had another one. 30 was a raving 80's party that was a dress up event that caught me off guard. Yesterday I turned 34, and my birthday celebration was a date with my wife. That is all I wanted, uninterrupted one-on-one conversation with Jenelle. The kids, we had some great friends offer to take them so we could go out. Those type of friends rock, by the way. Over the years I have shied away from big ol' birthday celebrations. For me, I'm a quality time guy and I'd rather hang with some friends and family any old given day rather than be the center of attention for a short window of time(some things change with age I guess). So my birthday celbration was a hot date with my wife to Anthony's restaraunt in Olympia. One of the restaurants we had yet to hit since we had been in Oly. I had precious cards written and colored by 3 wonderful kids and an early mornign phone call from Luke, my 7 year old, as he was in Cali, with Nana & Grandpa on vacation. 34 is the age this year, and I look forward to tackling this year with energy, adventure, and perseverance. The key for me to staying young is to make family a priority, think young, think healthy, and live out my life plan.

The Value of a Life Plan

Four years ago I sat down and created a LifePlan. This Life Plan helped me map out areas of my life that needed structure, goals, vision, and action. I found myself in a place where I was aiming at multiple targets and not concentrating on any of them very well. The Life Plan process was simple. I went to a secluded place where any distractions would be void(Oregon Coast on a cliff overlooking the Pacific), turned off my cell phone and began to write. I focused on 7 areas (or accounts) in my life: health, career/church, marriage and family, personal life fulfillment, spiritual life, self development/replenishing, and lifestyle. Over the years this has transformed into a plan that includes 100 dreams, a purpose statement, roles that I desire to lead and live, and a place to keep me accountable to my life plan. This was a great launching point for me to challenge myself through scripture and strategies to live a life that God has designed for me. If you are in a place where you feel like you are in a rut, feeling unmotivated, are not being challenged or accountable to anyone or anything, or are flat out unhappy, I challenge you to find key areas in your life to focus on. Develop a life plan. Build a strategy that will give you a place where you are comfortable with who God made you to be. This is a great tool and I have found it to be rewarding and beneficial as I live out a life of leadership. I trust it can be useful to you too.

The MJ Infatuation

Michael Jackson was a gifted dancer and singer. He brought the music industry to the place it is today. In the American idol, culture crazed society we live in today, I hope you can see what is wrong with the picture we have created for superstars. I heard a guy explain that he spent $1200 to get to LA to be a part of the MJ funeral lottery (which is disturbing) and then spent $700 on new threads to wear to the memorial service. I'm thinking "really?" This guys wasn't even a shoe-in for the service. The only thing this guy knew about MJ was the fact that he was an iconic hero and he wanted to be a part of the circus, the media created. MJ was talented, but over the last 10 years he had turned more into a circus side show, than an entertainer. Somewhere on the road of his life, something went weird with Michael. Maybe it was his lack of a normal childhood, maybe it was the fame and money, Bubbles-the chimp, I'm just saying, something didn't pan out. We are so quick to annoint him, when in reality his life had spiraled down pretty quick. Upon his death, culture mourned, over-covered the event, and talked about it way too long. Yes, our culture has worshipped him for decades. The sad thing is that people are justifying the many things wrong with the picture because of his talent. Our culture does this with many people that have this pop culture following. We give them an excuse and a pass when they do wrong, because of status. The sad thing is that neither MJ, nor any other celeb is going to save us, or bring us into some unknown reality of a life we live in. I watched some of the over-exposed coverage and I think people are looking for a Savior. People will have to realize that a Savior will come, but it will not be one who is flawed.

Fresh Eyes and Leadership

"Fresh Eyes" is a term every leader should have in their repetoire. As a leader, I have trained myself to occasionally take a look at things we are doing as a ministry, leadership, and church and get fresh perspective. Last night in our Welcome to ECC class, our Lead Pastor, Dale Oquist, asked those in the class(most of who are new to the church community in recent months) what are things we could do better at, or get rid of; and what do they think we do well in. Perspective is an amazing thing. There were some things I heard that weren't shocking so to speak, and their were a few that I took mental notes on. The best thing is I serve on a leadership team, that is unafraid to ask those very questions. From these discussions we take away perspective from "fresh eyes". This keeps us sharp, moving forward, and evolving as leaders of our ministries and keeps the church fresh. I would tend to say I have a good eye for things needing to be changed, updated, or refreshed. So who are your "fresh eyes" that you are asking to critique you? Two things we established in our time: 1. be honest 2. you are helping us move forward so help us in answering with things that come immediately to your mind. I walked away with appreciation for everyone apart of the conversation. A great reminder that excellent leaders are not afraid to ask the tough questions and fresh eyes are a benfit to have in your community.

Over Prepared Leaders in Small Groups

Have you ever been in a small group where the "leader" dominates the speaking or small group time? OK, guilty leader blushing...now. I know there are groups all over the country, at least one in every church, where the leader teaches and does not engage the small group participants. I will go on record saying, sometimes there are groups of new Christ followers, that need to be in an environment were that is fostered. However, for a group Christ followers the playing field should be leveled at times. As a leader of a copious small group ministry and a participant in groups over the last 15 years, I find the smoothest groups are one where a leader asks a lot of questions to get people talking. It is not uncommon for one to over-prepare themselves to lead. I think this can come out of a few different mentalities. Here are some common reasons for over-preparedness: a fear of not having enough to keep a group talking; a teaching only environment works; the thought that as a spiritual leader they need to have all the answers and the talking points, insecurities as a leader, a belief that as the leader they should be super prepared, maybe it is because that is all they have ever seen, and finally maybe it is a personality thing.
In building community one will soon realize that as a group grows together the freedom to get others involved and maybe even lead will be recognized. At least it should, and if not the group will eventually dissolve. The best small group materials available offer a thoguht, and then revolve it around some key points with lots of questions. For small group growth to occur, the fostering of leadership and the art of the asking questions need to be learned.
Over-preparedness can be a small group killer. It can cause groups to grow tired, dreadful, lost, and lackluster. Ask lots of right questions and inspire people to respond. It is doesn;t take much, but it does take.

Connecting With Leaders

There is one important task that must not be overlooked in leadership. That is the art of conencting with leaders. When you connect with leaders it should be on two levels: business & relational. Let me break that down. About the business: When you are meeting with leaders you should always keep the vision in front of them and intentionally keep them motivated about the vision. Know where you want to end and get there in the time allotted. At the same time you should allow plenty of time for relational conversation to take place. How is life, family, work, what makes them laugh in recent days, and let the talk be about them. I have a friend who recently told me he used to get invited to meet with a ministry leader, and he always started the time together by asking, "Is this about business, or is this about hanging out?" This way he knew where the leader intended to go, and help him get there. If it was about hanging out, my friend would be able to navigate as he was comfortable enough to do. I think there are many ways you can meet with leaders, but the important part is to make the time effective, and not let the person you meet with feel like it is a waste of their valuable time. Challenging leaders is a must, and inspiring vision is too, but don't forget to ask a lot of questions and get other people talking. Sometimes a meeting is about checking the gauges of those around you, and that is important. Connecting with leaders helps you grow, flow, and go. Make it a priority and get in their world when you can.

Urgent or Important?

I was challenged today to think about what is urgent and what is important. It made me realize that sometimes I live with this tension of deciding what is what. Sometimes I also think urgent things are important, and they are not. So many times I forget to realize that the person I am trying to be like, CHRIST, was the perfect example of figuring what was urgent and what was important. In John 17, Jesus in His prayer makes a claim that is worth thinking about. He declared that His work was completed. But weren't there more miracles to do, weren't there more people that needed to hear His message, shouldn't He have met with more people? Jesus had a peace in His heart that when He was done, He was ready to call it good for the work God had given him. Throughout Jesus' ministry, He often waited for God to direct Him. I love what Hummel says, in Tyranny of the Urgent relating to Lazarus and the call to come see him. "The urgent need was to prevent the death of a brother, a friend....But the important thing from God's point of view was to raise Lazarus from the dead." This is a great reminder for everyone to live by. You need to decide what you are going to do with your time. We only have 24 hours a day and if we had more, we would find a way to fill it. As an action, take some time to look at your schedule and evaluate what is urgent and what is important. Think about what is eating up your schedule and time. If you prioritize the important, you will go a long way and be successful in all you are doing. Timing is everything and will take you a long way in life.

THE MISSIONS-MINDED MIND of a 7 year old

This week my 7 year old son(that is the cool dude in the pic), decided he would get 19 extra buddy barrels. Buddy barrels are these yellow little plastic barrels that are used to collect money for missionaries around the world. Luke decided since he already has 5 himself, that he should make sure that every kid in his school class had one. So, he asked his teacher if he could give a little presentation on what buddy barrels were, and what they were used for. (His little creative business mind makes me wonder what he will do with his life.) He then challenged all his friends to get lose change and dollar bills and fill the barrels, so he could take them to church and make sure the missionaries get them. So, today before school he got his box that will hold all the buddy barrels from his calss and took it in, ready to go see if any kids took up his challenge. When he gets his mind behind something, he is hard to bump off track. That may be a good thing. Last year alone he gave over $350 to missions as a 6 year old. I'm excited to see what happens this year. The missions mind he has, amazes me and I am wondering what creative idea comes next for him to give to missions. All I know, is that if you know him, he is not afraid to ask if you for money for missions. Be forewarned.

Balance- You Should Get Some

A few years ago I found myself running rampant with life throwing a thousand things my direction daily. My attitude changed and I took on a routine that made me restless, unhealthy, irritated, tired, and life seemed to be spiraling out of control. One day I had an epiphany and realzied that my life was to be balanced and that it was meant to be enjoyed. So, I made some changes. I learned to say "NO" a lot more often. I put my family first, which was always the plan, but not always the result. I then shifted my schedule to make sure that the things that needed to get done did, and that I took mental breaks, conversation breaks, and made sure I spent time with people-which is a must for my persoanlity type. Now that I have that elusive word BALANCE in my life, I also have Joy, Peace, I laugh more, I'm not as intense, and I get more done in less amount of time. Balance is something that a lot of people I know are missing. What will soon happen is what happened to me...burnout, frustration, ready to SNAP at anyone...anytime, and anywhere. No balance and being tired can do that to ya Nowadays, life is grand and I am living an INTENTIONAL Life. Balance...You should get some...Doctor recommended and definitely a life saver.

Never Judge a Book By Its Cover

In case you are one of the 5.8 billion people on the planet who missed it, there was a remarkable story off the show Britain's Got Talent this past week. Susan Boyle, a 47 year old, never been kissed, unemployed lady took the stage. She stumbled over a few early questions, said she wanted to be like Eileen Page, and had a few people in the crowd rolling their eyes. Even the judges(Simon, Amanda, & Piers) were in for a surprise. They totally misjudged her; "cynical" was the word the judges used. Look at their reaction from them as she starts to sing. They are blown away and the crowd reacts too. She wasn't really put together real well, she stepped out not worried about what she looked like, and then took the world-yes the world by storm. This week she has easily over 12 million hits on youtube(from just one video-while there are many other of the exact same video with over a million) from her performance. Simon Cowell of American Idol, is a judge on this show, along with the two other judges were obviously shocked by what they heard next. Why is it we judge a book by its cover-so to speak. I listened to Susan sing this song from Les Miserables over and over again, and each time there was a freshness that came as the crowd roared and the judges were amazed-yes amazed. I must admit, I had to confess taht I have judged far too many people in my life time and this was a wake up for me to be careful how I judge. I, by looking at her, would have judged her the same way-but because I had heard about her via the web, I knew I was in for something special. This week I was reading Psalm 139 and after reading that and listening to this, it gave me new perspective. Their is beauty in each of us because we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Even if she couldn't sing, she was created by God. We are God-created and made in His image, and because of that, when we judge people, we are judging...well God. This is a fresh reminder to me that I better be careful not to judge to much by the outside, because on the inside a person can suprise you, just like Susan Boyle did me and the rest of the world. If you haven't seen it you chould check it out.

Throwing Rocks

As a kid, I threw plenty of rocks. The first time I went to the principal's office was for throwing rocks at girls on the playground. Hey, I had to get their attention, they were cute. I always love throwing rocks into a body of water. I often still today stand in amazement as I watch the ripples start as the rock goes kerplunk. Our lives are like rocks that make ripples.
I never met the man, but I have been told of this man who was brought up with integrity, influence, leadership, and an amazing work ethic. He developed these traits and led by example for his oldest son, Ruben. Who in return passed it onto Ruben Jr., who modeled it for William, whom passed it onto his kid, Phillip. Now, I have the task of instilling that in Luke, a 6th generation first born boy. Five generations later the ripple effect is still moving through yet another generation. The legacy that I leave, I too want to be talked about 6 generations from now. The work ethic, convictions, integrity, leadership, equipping that I spend time on today will hopefully make ripples. I understand I have to be willing to create and cultivate a place for ripples to take effect in the lives I come in contact with. My hope is that I will represent a rock that is tossed in water, and my example will cause the water to be interrupted and the effect will go on and on. So, next time you see a calm body of water- STOP. Throw a rock and see how the ripple takes effect. Then think about what ripple you will make.

A Princess Date

This past week I took my 4 year old daughter, Ella, on a date. We went to her fave spot, Starbucks (what have we created). These type of activities are special outings in our family. They happen on a regular basis, not too frequent to take away the specialty of them, or too far a part to forget how fun they are. This week Ella was bummed that the 'bucks had run out of banana bread, her fave. So, she settled for a cookie and hot chocolate. We sat and talked about life. I love the mind of little kids. They say the funniest things, think the craziest ideas, and far more creative than any adult. She told me about her pink Toyota Forerunner she wants to drive, how she wants to help people, and how she really isn't interested in marrying anyone right now. It was quite a fun conversation. For me it was special because I got to spend time with one of the most important people in my life, my little girl. She asked me questions and as I sat there, I realized in a few short years she'll be out of the house, all grown up, and I will have wondered where the time went. I value these times with my kids, and quality time is my love language. I had fun on this princess date, and can't wait until the next one. If you are a parent, no matter what the age of your kid, it is always good to get in their world and talk. Some parents think they do a great job, but in reality they suck at it. As a former pastor working with students, it was the number one complaint of students. You may think your kid doesn't want you around, but the truth is they want to be heard, loved, and talked too. So dads...moms... think about it, would a date with your little princess or prince, be such a bad thing? NO!

When Vision Becomes Fruition

This morning I stood in a brand new activity center/gym that had been dreamed about back in 1979. As a kid I went to Evergreen Christian School. We used an old church auditorium that had been turned into a gym, carpet floor and everything. Today, I heard Mr. Bruce Newman speak of the forest that lined the very place for the past 30 years, every team and kid who played on the old gym floor, and the historical look at the city even 30 years ago. I came back to Olympia and Evergreen last year after being gone for the past 25 years and now my kids go to the school I once did. The vision of this building was far more than athletic and community based events, but also a place for transformation to take place in the lives of the students, parents, and faculty that may set foot in that new building.

The great part of today was seeing vision come to fruition. A dream of a state of the art gym, with locker rooms, classrooms, bleachers, and it was packed with hundreds of kids and parents. (see the pic) When you are a part of a vision that becomes fruition, it is an amazing experience. The students who get to use this now, have parents that were kids when this vision was birthed. I can imagine the emotion Mr. Newman has since he has dreamed it for so long. As a matter of fact, the court is going to be named the Bruce & Lloyde Newman Court, in honor of the vision that was laid 30+ years ago. When your vision becomes reality it is time to celebrate and thank God for the process, no matter how long it may come to pass. The exciting part is that there was vision in the first place. So, here is to the excitement of learning, playing, and transformation that takes place in the new activity center at Evergreen Christian Community & Evergreen Christian School. Thanks Bruce for the vision and sticking with it for so long. My family is just one of tens of thousands that will see the building is used.

Don't Talk About Yourself So Much

There was a time in my life where I admit...I needed notes to keep a phone conversation going. Oh, I can talk and anyone who knows me, knows that. Yes, I was a junior higher and quite nervous on the phone. However, I learned early on, that it is smart to get people talking about themselves. To do this you need to be able to get people to open up. My dad gave me 4 H-words to get people talking about themselves that I have found useful. It also helped for him to lead by example. In no particular order here they are: HISTORY- get people to talk about where they were born, places they lived, growing up, and the like. HOME- what was there up bringing like, parents, memories, and traditions. HOBBIES- pretty self explanatory. What drives them to do what they like and how they got hooked on their activities. Finally...HOPES-what are the hopes and dreams they have. These 4-H words will be very helpful in getting people to focus on those they are in conversation with. It would be easy to talk about yourself, but really, talking about yourself all the time can be redundant. So, the best way to keep conversations going is getting the person you are talking too keep talking. So, there you have it. History, hopes, hobbies, and home are great ways to learn about people.

dot.comm(UNITY)

It is amazing to me how fast the dot.commUNITYs are taking off. I am one of 170 million people on one of the social networks, and I have quite a few friends (and yes I know them all). Recently I had an old friend contact me, I hadn't seen him since elementary school, 21 years ago-pretty WILD! One thing I have learned is that my ability to connect with people is way better in person than over the computer. I don't have to decipher between how to read a person in most face to face convo's, as I do many a times in online exchanges. I have also found true community comes with a group of people who can sit down and talk life in a fun, real, long drawn out, or even short convo. I do love the social networks that give me a chance to connect with friends I haven't seen for a while, or for that matter live over 500 miles away. But nothing beats sitting down for a coffee or a good talk with a friend. As a matter of fact, I need to do it more. Friends are one thing in life, I can't live without. (I'm a high "I" on the DISC) That being said, think about your online friends, and if you have access to taking one out for coffee(or a milkshake if you aren't into coffee) and have a really good conversation that is not "online surfacey", pick up the phone now and make that happen. dotcommUNITY happens best face to face and over a period of time, not online in a few sentence exchange. So, make the most of your friendships and hang with the people you call friends.

Insane Christianity

I was reading in the book of Acts today when I came across a phrase that I had not read in quite some time. Paul was speaking in defense to his actions. Those actions being spreading the message of Jesus Christ in various settings. Paul is then seized by the Jews and brought forth to defend his actions. As Paul is speaking, he is interupted and told, "You are out of your mind, Paul"...Your great learning is driving you insane." Paul's response is simple-"I am not insane". Then Paul goes on record to say, short time or long-I pray that God that not only you but anyone who is listening will become what I am. I love every exchange that takes place to the very end when Paul is should be free. I love the insane part of this passage, because Paul is preaching Jesus, and for it he is accused of being insane. "Are you out of your're mind?" I have been asked that many times in differing scenarios; but if I was ever challenged on the question in response for being a Christ Follower and speaking about Jesus, my response would be, "not out of my mind, just insane." Being a Christ Follower is something I want to be known for, and with it may come persecution and objection, but it will always be well worth it. Insane Christianity has a ring, and I like it.

People Need Friends with Fridge Rights

Not everyone has them, but I have a few that do. I also have them in a few places. I am talking refrigerator rights. These are simply the people I am comfortable with to walk into their house open the fridge and help myself. Not everyone has them in my house, and I don't have them in every house I am in. However, we are at a place in America where we need to get off the computer and stop watching television and connect with humans. This past year I moved and I lost a lot of refrigerator rights from those around me, and it went both ways. However, the best way to give people the rights, or earn them myself is to bjuild relationship with people. My 4 year old was overheard saying that she didn't have any friends this last week. Her brother chimed in that he and her little sis are two of her best friends. So, now I remind him about that as he is tattle-taling. Point is this...take a frined out this week for coffee, invite them over to hang out, or just find someone who needs encouragement and build fridge rights. People need friends, and that fact of life is they need fridge rights, but those come with time, relationship, and connection. So, make an effort and find some new friends.

Coach

I have had some great coaches in my athletic career. I have played on some great teams. There were leagues championships, undefeated seasons, and a few awards for my skill. Each team I have ever played on was coached. My coaches always saw something I didn't and pushed me to get to where I wanted to be. In 7th grade it was using my left hand. In 11th grade it was completely changing my shot to get a higher release. Later in life, I have had a coach help me navigate lifeplans, dream, and envision change. Coaching is a great tool for anyone, in any place in life. The coaching industry has become a hot one for Fortune 500 companies leaders. I love the coaching process because it puts some one in my life who will push me to find the greatest potential in myself. So, just like Coach Hartley, Reed, Fendall, and Thomas all taught me things, so I too hope to be able to coach others in areas of life that will develop them. Coaching, don't underestimate one because they will always see what you can't and help develop you.

The Above the Law Mentality

There are laws in the USA, that if broken have severe consequences. Murder, stealing, dealing, wreckless driving, and a ton more. Within the last 24 hours there seems to be a number of high profile people who have lived their lives as if laws do not apply to them. There is the all Olympic athelete who was caught with a bong. An err of judgment? True that. Yes, people mess up. Here are the facts...drugs make you look stupid, act stupid, and be stupid. So, when all these other people took defense of Phelps saying, "it was a bong hit, no big deal"; they were playing into the fact that because he is Phelps, he deserves a pass. Then there was a Senator who failed to pay his taxes, and is getting a free-pass. The last guy in the news for this is now in control of the same organization he was cheating. Very Interesting. This latest guy, a politician, who is a part of the "boys club" called the Senate. So much for change. I'm just saying two nominations of high profile men, who don't pay taxes, by this administration. Wow, that is some thing else. What has occurred is there are people who start to live their life as if they have gained so much power, prestige, and prosperity that these people think they can get away with anything. Politicians, athletes, religious leaders, actors, and the list of the above the law mentality keeps growing. If it was you or me avoiding taxes, we would have the IRS breathing down our backs, an arrest warrant with our name on it, and if it was you or I caught taking a bong hit, we'd have people in our life telling us to get it together, not making excuses for us. At least they better tell us that and not make excuses.
We will all stand before God some day and we will be able to give an account for every action we have taken. I live my life with that in mind, not the thought of living above anyone else, or having this I can't get caught mentality. If I break the law, then I should be held accountable, and so should these people no matter who they are. Live your life, but remember that every decision you make, or I make, is followed by an action that will be positive or negative.

Leadership-Just Grow

Leadership is a word that I was encouraged to understand at an early age, because my teachers told me I had it as early as 1st grade. Now, I am not too sure exactly what they saw in this intelligent, not-afraid-to-speak-up, inquiring mind. But they obviously saw something, which happens to be the same thing my parents saw in me when they encouraged me to run for student council when I entered middle school, or what my coach in high school saw in me when he asked me to be captain of the team. One thing I know they saw was perseverance. Learning from history lessons, most leaders in all walks and professions of life have to learn never to give up. Lincoln, Edison, Einstein, King Jr., Gates, and Paul the Apostle all have great stories of never giving up. Leadership is about growing, and never giving up. If you rest leadership it will become atrophy, just like a muscle if you stop working it out. Ive been thinking this year on ways to grow my leadership. A part of that process is finding new ways to do old things, as well as disciplines that are nothing new under the sun. This year my list of leadership growth includes: reading more, listening for details, pushing through the wall, building people up, studying , practicing life disciplines, and writing out & completing action steps for each project. My leadership must grow or it is in a stagnant or shrinking process. I challenge myself and you to persevere and just grow in 09.

It Starts Now

Every once in a while I find myself in a place of inspiration. After clearing my head of all the daily distractions of news, interruptions, and life I sometimes find a quiet place to reflect. Have you ever refelcted light off of a mirror? Have you ever seen an object illuminated by light that is traveling ahead of the object? Reflection can mean looking back, I think reflection is about looking forward too.
As I enter this new year we'll call '09, I find myself setting new patterns, goals, and monumental life challenges. Everything I want to do this year starts with a pattern and life plan I set now. In the first few days of this year my life has already changed. My alarm is now set earlier, my dietary intake is reworked, my reading schedule is intact, my workout schedule is in writing, my quiet time is uninterrupted, and my marriage & family life are priority. Set some goals, get your life in order, clear out the old (books, files, clothes, whatever it is needing cleared out, the thought of 2008, etc...) The New Year is a great place to start afresh. If you want to get in a new routine, start today. Don't wait until tomorrow, because that will bring its own interruptions too. Block the time so you can make this a legitmate plan. It begins today, it starts now. Reflect forward, not backwards.