Deano's Journey

A well deserved face plant!

2011-10-03T14:47:00.002-04:00

OK -I'm not necessarily a Bears fan or a fan of Marion Barber - but this is just nuts. After a TD Barber attempts a grandstanding back flip and winds up doing a spectacular face plant! Maybe it's just me, but I'm not a fan of the showboating that goes on in sports. Whether it's the TD dances or the "in your face" antics when a QB is sacked. I say just make the play, get back to the huddle and do it again.

But then I wonder how much of this creeps into the church? I'm not thinking of anything particular at HCC, but how many times does God do something spectacular and we take the credit? I see people get mad because they were not applauded for serving - and have to wonder who are they really serving? As a church tries to follow God's clear vision and folks leave because they are not being "fed". Go to any large preacher function and you will see the "pecking order" established by how many come to the church or how big the buildings are. To me it seems like the post TD antics are not limited to the NFL.

Don't get me wrong - I think cow bells and air horns at a baptism are AWESOME!!! We need more cowbell! But when our calling and service becomes a reason for showmanship - we have missed the mark! It concerns me when people will applaud a funny joke in a sermon - but not sing during the the song service?

Maybe the spirit of Andy Rooney has fallen on me (I'm feeling a little crotchety today) or maybe I should just not blog on a Monday... but I think Barber got what he deserved! And I know that any time I am tempted to take the credit from God - I get what I deserve - a big fat face plant!

Coming Up Short

2011-09-20T09:26:00.004-04:00

I like Monday Night Football - OK I like football period. And while watching MNF last night I was reminded of something I've been thinking about a lot lately.

In the game, the St Louis Rams were playing the NY Giants. Now I'm not particularly a fan of either team. NY has Eli Manning at the helm - certainly a star in his own right while the Rams are led by a young Turk named Sam Bradford.

What was interesting about the game was how the Rams dominated on offense yet still lost. On paper they should have won. What was the deciding factor? Turn overs, and an inability to score from "red zone" (that's area from the 20 yard line to your end zone).

That is why it made me think. How often in the church do we dominate on offense and yet fail to score? What I've been chewing on lately is this. I think we are just too busy. We have too much going on. And sadly a lot of activity does not equal spiritual growth. Along with the staff and Elders, we have been reading a book titled, "Simple Church". The premise is that we need a clear process where we lead people along a structured path. A path that goes from someone not knowing God to connecting with Him and His people. Then moving them onto discipleship and service.

What I'm realizing, along with others is that a lot of activity is just that, a lot of activity. So some changes are coming. You'll have to wait to see what that means, but it is coming.

While losing a game on Monday Night is bad for the Rams. Losing the battle for souls is unimaginably worse. Let's all make sure we are not dominating on offense and yet failing to win!

When a toothache is a good thing...

2011-03-02T16:02:00.003-05:00

It could be because I never went to a dentist until I was an adult. It could be because we did not have dental insurance for years. It could be because I don't floss. It could be I just have bad teeth. But whatever the cause I wound up with a throbbing tooth ache over the weekend.

Some left over Percocet (thanks to Melody's kidney stone) got me through till Monday morning. Finally I got into the chair. You KNOW the chair. In my case, it was a chair in Larry's "Little shop of Horrors". OK so he's not really that bad, but I was not there for a hair cut. I had an abscess in a tooth that had been previously filled. I was hearing those wonderful words - "We're going to have to do a root canal". Been there, done that - no fun!

Now, I like my dentist. I miss Ershal - but Larry's a pretty good egg. Larry is also Jewish. Over the last few weeks we have actually talked a bit about our faith. Today, on my second of at least three visits we talked a little more in depth. Now, I'm not saying I had the chance to share the gospel with him. But I'm hoping some day I will.

So why did I have a toothache? Was it bad dental hygiene - maybe? But maybe it was a divine appointment. Maybe it was to sow a seed. Maybe it was God using me to reach out to one of his "chosen people".

We all come in contact every day with "chosen people"... not just the Jewish variety either. Are we taking the opportunity to share Jesus? Or are we just there to take care of the issue at hand? As disciples the issue at hand is ALWAYS about being Jesus to those who don't know him.

Thanks Lord for the toothache.... Now you and me have a dental bill we need to discuss.

A Picture is worth a 1,000 words

2011-02-26T11:47:00.002-05:00

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words. And this picture says way more than that.

At first glace it is three of our youth praying over some backpacks. Three of 364 that are being handed out to homeless men and women in Nashville today. This was a cooperative effort from HCC and several other churches to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

But there is so much more for me than just this (not that this is not simply AMAZING!). During the time of worship I was sitting next to Beth, my 29 year old daughter. And we were both in tears. And I was reflecting. I was remembering how 13 years earlier our family had moved from Louisville to Georgetown. I was remembering how difficult it was for Beth, who was just turning 16. How she had gone from being a big fish in a little pond (small Christian school), to being the "New Kid" a Scott County High School. I was remembering how she hated it, maybe hated us, and possibly God for the upheaval in her world.

As I was holding her hand I whispered... "Do you realize there are more Jr an Sr High kids here right now than there were total people at HCC back then?" I was overwhelmed by God's grace to me, my family, our church, and my daughter. She looked at me and said, "I would do it all again"....

John said it best in 3 John 3:4 - "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in truth".

I'm so proud of you baby! It is an unbelievable blessing to share this ministry with our family! It is awesome that I get to share it with you! Now where did I put those tissues?

Thanks Melba (and Paul)

2010-05-26T08:44:00.003-04:00

It's that time again. It's the time of year wheen my mailbox is stuffed with graduation announcements and party invitations. And while my schedule doesn't allow me to attend very many, it does remind me of my own graduation. It was May 28, 1977.

But more than the date, I'm reminded of who was there with me. Melba (Wilson) Mastin and her late husband, Paul Wilson. They were there instead of my parents. My dad was undergoing open heart surgery in Houston TX the very same day so my parents couldn't be there.

But that wasn't the only day "they were there". My mom and dad were pretty "wishy-washy" in their faith back then. But I was very active in the church youth group, and was planning on attending Bible college. Paul and Melba were youth sponsors. But they were also in many ways surrogate parents for me.

I probably spent more nights in their home my senior year than I did my own. It was at their home I met some guys from Moody Bible Institute. And that wound up being a big part of the reason I attended MBI. Two years later they drove the 400 miles to Freeport, IL to attend my wedding. I could go on for days talking about the impact this couple had on my life.

Twenty years ago Paul went home to be with the Lord. I remember my friend Tom (his son-in-law) calling me and saying, "Paul went home today". I remember at his funeral the passage used by Pastor Faulkner - it was a passage about Barnabas and he attributed it to Paul Wilson - He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. (Acts 11:24 NIV)

Few people have affected me as much as these two did back then and even now. I am forever grateful.

So the question I have for you is this. In 33 years who will be remembering what you did for them today? Who will be reminiscing about the impact you made on their lives.

Thank you Melba and Paul for being Jesus to me and so many others!

What can we learn about power outages?

2010-05-12T11:40:00.002-04:00

So you know the drill. A storm is raging and all of a sudden the lights go out. Sometimes for a moment, sometimes for hours. When it's back on you have to do some things. You have to go back to work on the computer (hopefully you had saved what you were working on). You have to reset the clock on the stove and microwave and maybe another clock or two. You have to do something with the VCR (or just live with the blinking like I do).

But sometimes the power outages have nothing to do with a lightning strike, sometimes it's some unfortunate driver hitting a pole, or some equipment failure... but the results at your house are the same. You have to reset a bunch of stuff.

But what about the spiritual power outages in your life? What about the times when God doesn't seem very near. Or you realize you have drifted away from Him? What causes this?

Sometimes it's just apathy - you lose that first love, your relationship with Jesus has been on autopilot for some time and then bang - you realize the power is out.

Sometimes it's sin - you have let some unchecked transgression get a hold on your life. And now you realize you are "on your own".

For whatever reason you find yourself far away from God in this relationship - so what do you do?

Well - just like resetting the clocks in your house you need to do some similar things.

1 - You need to know what time it really is. Spend time in the Word, and prayer - get in touch with God again.

2 - Reset your life's "clock" - Begin again living according to God's time line, His direction, His Lordship.

3 - In some cases damage has been done - I had to replace a whole lot of stuff in my house once because we took a direct hit. Maybe there are some things in your life that just have to go. And be replaced with other things. Maybe there are some relationships that need to be mended.

"For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man." (Mat 24:27 NIV)

Remember Jesus is coming again (and maybe soon) - don't let him come and find your "clock" blinking!

Weekend Reflections

2010-05-10T10:28:00.004-04:00

Wow - what an amazing weekend!

Friday - Mel-O-Day!!!!! We went to Kroger and spent almost $200.00 but saved $148 using coupons - whooo hoooo! Friday evening wedding rehearsal for Rachel Owens and Brian Putty. I normally don't like doing weddings - this was an exception big time!

Saturday - Wedding and receptions at Circa 1840 - amazing place and food - and got a hug from Daniel Harrison!

Saturday night - Worship at HCC. Jeremy Zeller and his crew were amazing. Three baptisms and the "altar" littered with people letting God have His way in their lives!

Sunday - Two more awesome services at HCC. More lives rocked by Jesus Christ!

Sunday evening - Beth, Dale, and the girls come out for steaks and to celebrate Mother's Day with the most wonderful woman in the world - MY WIFE!!!!

And somewhere in there my fantastic neighbor fixed my push mower, and sharpened the blade on my riding mower. Only downer - I discovered why my yard is not being cut even... a bent blade.....

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Pet 4:8 (NIV)

How this happens?

2010-05-03T11:41:00.002-04:00

4 1/2 lb large mouth bass caught on Friday April 30 at Williamstown lake. Rod - 7' Loomis crank bait rod with a splatter back 200 bandit crank bait.

So how does this happen? Well it's all pretty simple in theory. You figure out where such a fish might be (in this case on a wind blown point with fairly shallow water close). You figure out what she's hungry for. (a shad type bait that would match the shad she was used to eating). The kind of presentation needed to mimic a natural food source. (slowly running the bait through the area where she might be). And last, some really sharp hooks! Oh, and one more thing (at least in my case) a little bit of dumb luck.

So why post this? To brag? OK, maybe a little. But more for the spiritual application. Because while not everyone is jazzed up like I am when it comes to fishing. Everyone is being sought after by a much better predator than me. We are all being "fished for" by the enemy of our souls. You know who - the Devil.

And he catches us using some of the same methods I used to catch this fish.

He knows what "bait" to use. And for each of us it may be different. Maybe it is pride, money, sex appeal, or a thousand other things.

He knows what presentation to lay before us. Maybe it's when we are tired, lonely, or feeling sorry for ourselves.

He knows what we are "hungry" for. Maybe it's some medication to take off the edge, or some thrill that we just "can't live without".

And he uses some really sharp hooks!

Now after I caught this fish and took the picture I let her go. Maybe I can catch her again some day and she will be even bigger.

The Devil does not believe in "catch and release" though. Once he gets his hooks in you - he will not willingly let you go.

So consider this verse and take it to heart! Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Pet 5:8 KJV)

If I were to paraphrase this using fishing terms it would read like this. "Be awake and alert because he Devil, the angler from Hell, like a crafty fisherman is throwing his whole tackle box at you, hoping to have you for dinner!"

Allergies

2010-04-27T10:21:00.003-04:00

Allergies! Uggghhh! As I sit at my computer my nose is running and my head is thumping. While many suffer greatly from seasonal allergies (like my wife), for me it's generally just an irritation. This year has been a little worse. So I have been up close and personal with my Netti Pot, a box of Kleenex, and a variety of decongestants.

So what causes allergies? Well according to Wikipedia (the source of all knowledge) it is a hyper-sensitivity to otherwise normal environment sources. In my case, and most of you reading this it's pollen right now. That's why I have been doing a "rain dance" for several days. Hopefully the rain will clean the air of these microscopic irritants.

But what about spiritual allergies. OK - I've never heard anyone use this term - but here's my point. What about the normal things of life that wind up kicking our butts? And while they may not lead to runny noses, itchy eyes, and a trip to the pharmacy. They do really wreak havoc in our lives. Let me illustrate.

Work - God created us to work. We work so we can take care of our families, and to join with Him in the work He is already doing. But when a spiritual allergy flares up it causes folks to become work-a-holics. They become dominated by their jobs, success, and climbing the ladder.

Sex - while sex between two married people is a wonderful thing. There seems to be a sex allergy in our culture. People are just consumed with it. The devil has taken this wonderful gift from God and perverted it.

Sports - I love sports! I love playing and watching sports (almost every kind). But what happens when a relaxing past time becomes an all consuming obsession? Either for us or for our kids? Have you ever had a sports allergy?

The list could go on and on. So what can we do about it?

With physical allergies you can be tested to find out what to avoid and then get some medicine that will counteract the trouble makers.

Spiritually we need to do the same thing. The Word of God is the ultimate medicine and test for that matter. As we spend time in the Word it points out the trouble spots in our lives while at the same time giving us the needed resources to fight them.

David said it like this - "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psa 119:11 (NIV)

The author of Hebrews said this, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Heb 4:12 NIV)

So have you been to the "spiritual allergist" lately? If not - I highly recommend it!

What Jesus did not say....

2010-04-19T11:17:00.002-04:00

OK - this was inspired by Perry Nobel's blog... but its great stuff...

Jesus said, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (Jn 13:34-35)

He did not say, they will know you are my disciples by.....

... the way you forward stupid emails thus proving your love for me...

... by the way you yell at those who don't know me for living like they don't know me.

... by your t-shirts and bumper stickers.

... by the music you listen to.

... by the political party you support.

... by the denomination you belong to.

... by the way you protest.

... by the products and companies you boycott.

... by the way you look down on those you don't think are as good as you are.

... by the way you take from one another.

Jesus did not stutter when he said the proof is in how you love one another!!!!

The Masters!

2010-04-12T14:30:00.004-04:00

The Masters .....

I'm guessing everyone reading this knows who's in the picture. But just in case, that is Phil Mickelson with his wife Amy. He had just won the Masters golf tournament - the "mac daddy" in golf.

And in so doing he showed Tiger Woods how it's done. Not just in having the best score after 72 holes - but how to love and support his wife.

Sure Tiger has more wins, more money, and more endorsements than Phil. But Phil has something so much more - respect. He has the respect of the other players, his fans and his family.

Over the last couple of years he has been missing tournaments to be with his wife as she battled cancer. Tiger on the other hand has been ..... well we all know what he's been .....

I am a fan of both men. Tiger because of the way he plays the game - he is an incredible golfer. Phil because he knows what's most important. I pray for Tiger. I pray that he can get his family life in order. I pray that he beats his demons. I pray that he learns to get to know the God who's name he loves to take in vain. I pray that he can learn from other men like Phil Mickelson that this is just a game, maybe even just a job, but at the end of the day he is a husband, father, and son.

Winning the Masters is a big deal - mastering your own life is a bigger deal.

Don't forget you can now follow me on twitter - http://twitter.com/Dino2525

Weekend Update (Easter)

2010-04-05T09:11:00.003-04:00

Wow - what an incredible weekend - here are some high points and there were many more!

Praise Team, choir, tech folks - brought us to tears more than once - you guys rocked!

Charlie Penn - you and your crew were amazing! The coffee and "treats" were over the top!

Tina and Melinda the place looked amazing!

Those of you that fasted and prayed - thank you, thank you, thank you. The Spirit was obviously moving in hearts this weekend.

Valerie, Paula and dozens and dozens of childrens workers - WOW!!!! You all did an incredible job.

The Greeters, Ushers, and Servers - Awesome! Great job one and all.

The counters - thanks again - 1767 total.

And most all Praise to our Risen Savior for giving us a reason to celebrate not just this weekend - but every day of our lives!

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, -Eph 3:20 NIV

Prayer and Fasting pt 4

2010-04-01T13:30:00.004-04:00

"Some people pray just to pray and some people pray to know God." --Andrew Murray

"Of all the duties enjoined by Christianity none is more essential and yet more neglected than prayer." --François Fénelon

"When a Christian shuns fellowship with other Christians, the devil smiles. When he stops studying the Bible, the devil laughs. When he stops praying, the devil shouts for joy." --Corrie Ten Boom

Please take time today to pray that God opens the hearts and minds of those coming this weekend. While we have heard the resurrection story many times - may it be seen in a new and life altering way.

Also pray that other churches would see a similar outpouring of God's Spirit.

I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
1 Tim 2:8 (NIV)

Prayer and Fasting pt 3

2010-03-31T10:31:00.003-04:00

May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. Psa 141:2 (NIV)

As we continue moving toward the weekend I want to offer some more suggestions for our fasting. These are not original they are from Perry Nobel's blog. But they are great.

You can fast for a day or two…or all week, whatever the Lord puts on your heart.
You can fast for a specific time period (like from 5:00 pm one day until 5:00 pm the next day.)
You can fast from a particular meal.
You can fast from a particular type of food.
You can fast from something other than food (like maybe facebook or twitter!)

I believe God wants to rock some people's worlds and I for one want to join Him in that - will you join with me?

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Mat 21:22 (NIV)

Prayer and Fasting pt 2.

2010-03-30T07:56:00.003-04:00

Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Sea. It is already in Hazazon Tamar" (that is, En Gedi). Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. 2 Chr 20:2-21 (NIV)

Jehoshaphat was a righteous king but he saw that his people were facing a real danger (a vast army) - and while he was seeking the Lord he called the people of Israel to fast.

As people of faith we see an even greater danger before us. Those we know and love are also under attack - many have not committed their lives to Christ. So this week I'm asking that we follow the example of many before us. Pick a day (or more if you choose) this week to fast and spend time in prayer for those who will be joining us this weekend at HCC.

Pray that God's Spirit moves them to come and hear.
Pray that God's Spirit makes them receptive to His word.
Pray that Jesus is lifted up in a glorious way before them.
Pray that God is glorified in all that we do.

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16b (NIV)

Prayer and Fasting

2010-03-29T08:47:00.002-04:00

Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. Acts 14:23 (NIV)

In the early church they practiced and taught about prayer and fasting. So important was this practice that they did this prior to appointing Elders in the churches.

I want to ask all of you to join me this week in another important decision. I'm talking about the decision that many people need to make about who Jesus Christ is going to be in their lives.

This coming weekend is Easter and we will have a monster crowd. And among that crowd will be many that are not Christ Followers and many others that at best are "marginal".

I'm asking that you join me for at least one day of your choice of fasting. I'm not being legalistic about this... it is a fast of your choice. It could be a simple juice fast, or a total food fast with liquid only. Let the Lord lead you on this.

And while you do this take some specific time to pray for this weekend's services. Here are a few suggestions for prayer.

Pray for me that I will hear God clearly in preparing the message this week. Pray that God prepares the hearts of those who will be hearing it this weekend. Pray for the volunteers that will make this a great experience for those coming. Pray for the Praise Team that they will worship in such a way that we naturally join them in praise of God. Add to this list as God leads you.

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16b (NIV)

I'm now on "Twitter"

2010-03-25T11:51:00.001-04:00

You can now follow me on Twitter - http://twitter.com/Dino2525

Is your bracket blown?

2010-03-22T10:33:00.003-04:00

I'm sure that you, like me have said, "my bracket is blown" - at least if you have filled out an NCAA bracket this year.

This has been an exciting time of "March Madness". With some top ranked teams exiting early and some "Cinderella Teams" decimating brackets everywhere.

And while this is a fun time of the year for basketball fans it is really not earth shattering - but what about when the "blown brackets" are not on a sheet of paper? What do we do when the "brackets" represent the plans we have in life?

The hopes and dreams we have are shattered by a sickness, infidelity, or rebellion? NCAA fans can go home and hope for next year. But what can we do?

The good news is that God offers grace and restoration. As a matter of fact the Scripture is filled with examples of blown dreams turned into ministry. I think of Joseph, the spoiled favorite son sold into slavery. God used him mightily. I think of Paul, who started out trying to eradicate the Church and yet became it's greatest advocate. In a couple of weeks I will be preaching about the incredible denial of Peter and the monument of grace he became.

So maybe now your "busted bracket" looms large in your life. Take heart we have a God who is so much larger than our situations. I am reminded of one of my favorite verses in Scripture. Ephesians 3:20 says this, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,"

Maybe it's time to just shred that old bracket - and let God do what only God can do.

Oh, and GO BIG BLUE!!!!!

He's not choking on this one!

2009-05-20T13:49:00.003-04:00

242 / +2.6 / 23 - "I've been a bad boy".....

Phil Michelson is the #2 player in the world in golf. And I have to say - I love/hate to watch him. He really seems like a class act, but his game is frustrating. He can be awesome or awful. On the other hand I am bad or awful. He has a reputation as a "choker". He can be heading into the final round with a 5 shot lead and then blow it. He is addicted to his driver when a 3 wood would serve him better. But at the end of the day he is still ranked #2 in the world behind Tiger Woods.

And while he may choke at times on the golf course - he's not choking where it counts the most. He is a strong family man with a beautiful wife and three children. And from the outside looking in it appears he has his priorities right. That is why today he suspended his play in the PGA indefinitely. His wife has been diagnosed with breast cancer. You can read the story here if you would like.

So many times celebrities are paraded before us and while they have tremendous successes in their field they are often incredible losers in life. It's nice to see that in the things that matter most Phil Michelson gets it. I pray that all goes well with his wife's treatments. That is much more important than golf!

I miss you mom.

2009-05-09T12:19:00.003-04:00

239.4 / -2.6 / 25.6

I don't often talk about my mom. There are a number of reasons - the main one being it is painful. My mom had an incredible battle with mental illness. I still struggle with my brother's mental problems and I have to fight not to blame that on my mom too. Through no fault of her own she was simply not a nurturing person. I think that the survival skills she had to develop in her own childhood made her hard and defensive.

My mom did have some incredible attributes however. She was a voracious reader. She loved God. She worshiped the ground my dad walked on. She would literally fight hell for her three boys. While she had few close friends, she was loyal to them with a vengeance.

But with tomorrow being mothers day I wish I could see here again. She has been gone for nearly 10 years now. And to be honest - I'm not sure I would like to see her as she was. But I'd really like to see her as she is now. She is no longer in the pain of loneliness and mental anguish that she carried most of her life. She would no longer be worried about Mark. She would have cast aside the "stuff of life" that made her sometimes difficult. The corruptible has been replaced with incorruptible. She is now the full blown version of what her savior intended for her to be.

I have not said it in a very long time - so I want to say it here. I love you mom. You gave me life. You really had no greater joy than to see you kids following Jesus. You gave me the best you had. While I have felt many times that it was not enough. I have found that in God's economy it was.

I guess the truth is if I could see you again just the way you were, I really would probably jump at the chance. Even if it meant we would would disagree about something. I do love you. And I know you WILL have a great Mother's Day - because you are having yet another Mother's Day in heaven. One day we will celebrate it together before the throne.

OK - who hid the tissues?

Weekend Update

2009-04-27T08:24:00.002-04:00

242/+2.6 / 23 - I was bad!

Wow - what a weekend! Simply fabulous weather and packed full of stuff!

Friday - Melody and I went to the Rolex (it's a horse thing - where horses walk funny - I don't get it - but I was surrounded by a bunch of people who do - it was fun).

Saturday - Mowed the grass - had an awesome service Sat night - a young lady was baptized - I never get tired of that!

Sunday - Two more great services - one more baptism, a couple of folks transferred their membership - and several others responded in some awesome ways.

We have had 12 straight services where people responded to Jesus!

First weekend w/out Nell Anne - We miss her - but the team rocked - so many stepped up and we got 'R done - and done well! Thanks team!

Total attendance - 1208!

Sunday after church - grilled steaks - Sunday evening grilled a pork loin - yum yum!

Can't wait to see what God is going to do this week!

I cried....

2009-04-20T11:49:00.005-04:00

239.4 / -.4 / 25.6

Sunday night I came home, sat in my chair and cried (OK - maybe just a little teary).

It started Sunday morning - last service for Nell Anne, very nice recognition after church, lots of hugs, tears, and "good lucks". Also some friends from 100 years ago (my own youth group days) were in for the afternoon. Then I get the text message. Dan (our Exec Pastor) writes - "we need to get together for a very important meeting - 5:30?" Oh, great! What could be going on that requires an emergency meeting on Sunday afternoon? Who's had an affair? Who is resigning? Who is in crisis? UGGGGHHHHH!

Then I get to the restaurant where we are to meet... and I see them - a bunch of people that have one singular connection - me. There are folks from the staff, all my family, including my brother Joe, and my friends from the past (with some extras now). My wife had pulled it off! She surprised me with a 50th B-day party. She had to wait till 2 weeks after the fact to do it.

There was cake (I had only a bite - not very carb friendly), I got lots of hugs, some gag gifts and some really nice ones too. People said some nice things about me. And then it was over. I went home, watched a little TV and then it happened - I started to cry. It was just Melody and me and I told her - "nobody should be blessed this much".

As I looked back over the last 50 years, mostly the last 35 I realized how God had brought so many people into my life. Melba (Wilson) Mastin was there - she and her late husband were youth sponsors. Tom and Jimmy were there - my two closest friends from the past who have been there ever since. My brother. My wife, children, grandchildren and son-in-law. All who make my life rich. My life team - guys you just don't know what you mean to me! My staff and an Elder. My golf buddies, the list just goes on.

And so I just sat there and wiped away the tears. And it dawned on my. I'm not just in tears because I'm blessed. I'm in tears becasue I KNOW I'm blessed. And that is perhaps the biggest blessing of all.

OK - where's the kleenex? I need them again! And it's a good thing. No it's a great thing!

Roller Coaster Week!

2009-04-17T10:19:00.004-04:00

239.8 / -2.2 / 25.2

Talk about a roller coaster week! Have you ever had one of those weeks where it's just up and down every day (even moment by moment). Well that's been my week.

The weekend was just awesome, celebrating the resurrection with the largest crowd I've ever preached to, seeing men, women and children respond, even a baptism - wow!

Then we go public with Nell Anne's resignation - and while I had been able to deal with it for a few weeks personally - others were in the initial shock stage - so there was some comforting and encouraging.

Tuesday in my life team (and the other half - we split a year ago) - we see two men accept Christ - AWESOME - this is why we do Lifeteams!

- Wednesday we get the disturbing news that some punk kid has been messing with my baby - and yes for a moment I was ready to get a gun! We survived the drama and trauma and with Connie Morse's help saw it dealt with professionally and effectively - its all good and some valuable lessons learned.

In the midst of all this - there was some infighting trying to rear its ugly head. Good people on both sides of a tough issue - and the Devil in the middle trying to get everyone side tracked. FOLKS - THE DEVIL IS REALLY "PISSED" RIGHT NOW - SO WATCH AND PRAY! But it all worked out - humility ruled the day, there were some "sit down face to face" meetings that I think honored Jesus and helped everyone! For those who know what I'm talking about - YOU GUYS ROCK! For those who don't - just learn this - don't battle via e-mail, facebook, or blogs... if you have an issue with a brother or sister - go to them personally.

Then I get to sit down with Mike (a guy who is going to be baptized this weekend) and watch him receive Christ by faith!

Thursday I take a couple hours to play golf - get about 100 phone calls and e-mails and just post a horrible score - 96 - ugghhhh. No problems - just folks trying to show love for Nell Anne.

But now it's Mel-O-Day (formerly known as Friday) and I get to spend it with my honey, Melody - hence the name change.

And through all of this, I'm reminded of maybe my favorite verse - "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us," (Eph 3:20 NIV)

Folks - I just can't wait to see what God is going to do this next week! Wow!

Goodbye Nell Anne

2009-04-16T00:00:00.005-04:00

Most of you got this news through our e-mail blast. Nell Anne Gossett will be leaving our staff.

She has been an incredible asset to Harmony for the last six years. When she joined our staff it was in a part time postion when we were running about 250. Today six years later we are averaging over 1100. In the last six years she has championed many changes. We now have an incredibly strong and talented group of people who help lead us in worship each week. She has assembled other incredibly talented people who help with graphics, audio/visual, and set designs. She has been with us through two major building campaigns (one a relocation).

When Nell Anne joined us it was because God was leading her to be a part of Harmony. She now feels that what she was called to do is done. Nell Anne loves a challenge and that is what she has had for the last six years. A challenge that she was always willing to roll up her sleeves and get at. Now is the time for her to move on to new ones. I, for one can't wait to see what that will be!

Please be praying for her, Wayne and their family as they transition into this new time in their lives. Also pray for Harmony as we seek God's direction in filling this position. The other leaders and I have no doubt that God has the right person already prepared to jump in and build on the great foundation that has been laid.

This Sunday will be her last weekend with us. We will be having a reception for her after the 10:45 service. Come tell her how much you love her as only Harmony folks can do.

To quote Nell Anne, "Onward and Upward".

Easter Update

2009-04-13T13:17:00.002-04:00

242 / +1 / 23

Wow - Amazing - Unbelievable - Incredible - etc. etc. etc !!!!!

The weekend was simply amazing. Getting to celebrate the resurrection is always awesome - but this weekend was "off the chart". Here are some highlights.

- Awesome worship set - the band and praise team rocked the house and exalted Jesus Christ!

- We had people respond to Christ at all three services!

- Volunteers - what can I say? You all were amazing! I mean AMAZING!

- Staff - I love you all - you are such a joy to serve with!

- Cardboard testimonies were strong!

- 2294 in total attendance - Outstanding, and a mere glimpse of what we will be seeing in the future!

If you missed it - check it out online - week 4.

I can't wait till next week to see what God has planned - join us!

New Again

2009-04-10T11:57:00.008-04:00

241 / +.2 / 24

A big thanks to Emily Kouns - she posted this video on Facebook - I wanted to share it. Have a very blessed weekend celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

Are we lip Synching?

2009-04-06T13:22:00.003-04:00

240.8 /-.2 / 24.2

Warning - this is ridiculous!

OK - I warned you! I'm not sure what is the most disturbing here... that goofy outfit, the obvious messed up lip synching? Or the fact this is a church service? But it got me thinking. How often are we guilty of lip synching?

I think it's way too easy for us in the Christian community to simply give in to "church speak" without any real substance in our lives. We say we love Jesus - but do our actions back that up? Are we really living for Him? We say we want to see people come to know God's love - but then just hang out with folks who already know it. Folks - we will never win people we don't have a relationship with!

Certainly the world knows something just "smells funny" when they see us just go through our religious movements without seeing any real change in our lives. It's our version of "lip synching".

This weekend we challenged everyone to seek God in finding at least one person outside of Christ and then allow God to use us to win them for God's glory. Let me give you (and me) a warning - lip synching will not work - EVER! It's one thing to go out and sign our names to the "big one" - it's quite another to break out of our comfort zones and really connect with someone who is lost.

Several Years ago two up and coming stars saw their careers crash and burn because they got busted lip synching. Don't let what happened to Milli Vanilli happen to you! It's not just us who will pay the price!

No Jason Brown, I'm not telling you!

2009-04-03T08:53:00.004-04:00

241 / -1 / 24

No Jason Brown, I'm not telling you! OK - that's an inside joke that I'm going to let you in on. Jason Brown, is a preacher friend of mine who's parents attend Harmony. He has been wearing me out on Facebook wondering what's going to happen this weekend. I keep telling him he'll just have to wait like everyone else!

But Jason is not the only one asking - and I'm not the only one being asked - all the staff is being asked - what's the buzz? What's the big surprise? Are we launching a new service? Are we going to buy another Wal-Mart? Are we finally getting a good preacher? OK - let me give you a hint - No to all those suggestions and many others I have heard.

But I do want to clue you in a little bit. Come Saturday or Sunday (or both) expecting something unexpected! Imagine you are at Rupp Arena, the Cats have just won the NCAA tournament (I know for some this might be a stretch right now), the place is packed, and everyone is waiting the arrival of the team. They are coming into the arena on a big bus. They finally get there, and as they are filing off the bus their names are blaring over the sound system. Just how excited would the Big Blue Nation be? And what if you could be right there?

Well we are going to issue a challenge this weekend that is so big - and the expectation so high that you will either think we have lost our minds or you will just pass out! OK, you may not pass out - but we will have smelling sauce on hand. But my prayer is that you say wow - what if? What if we really did see this happen? What if what is being proposed is actually the reality a year from now? What if what God is doing at Harmony is bigger news than John Calipari coming to Lexington? What if it's so big that we know without a doubt that it's a God thing?

Well, Jason Brown you'll just have to wait, but like I said, "you are welcome to come out on Saturday night and be with us." And everyone else is welcome too. You really don't want to miss this!

Florida Update

2009-04-01T11:15:00.003-04:00

242 / +1.8 / 23 (weight today / +/- since last post / total loss)

OK - I'm back - well sort of - still recovering! But what a great trip.

Sunny and warm for 6 days - 83-90 degrees but windy! 20-30 mph everyday - tough to fish on Istokpoga with that wind. We did fish three days and caught fish every day on the lake. Decided to go to the Everglades (to fish the canals). Tons of fish and the wind was manageable in the canals. We caught 60 one day, 150 another day, and 350 the last day. Yes 350 bass! Biggest was about 3.5 lbs.

Last day it was storming in the morning and the weather report for the afternoon was 30 mph winds -so we loaded up and drove home.

All in all a fantastic trip. Thanks for the prayers for safety - it was a very good trip - but I'm glad to be home and pumped about this weekend and next - EASTER!

And hey - I basically stayed true to the diet and did not gain any weight! Sweet! Still got a ways to go - but I'm getting there.

Oh, the guy in the picture told me to say "hi to all my friends"....

Heading to Florida - Fishing!

2009-03-21T14:36:00.005-04:00

240.2 / -1.8 / 24.8

OK - I don't have much on my brain except my trip south.... So here are some stats about Lake Istokpoga.

Lake Istokpoga, at 27,692 acres, is the fifth largest lake in the state of Florida. The lake is generally shallow, averaging only 4 to 6 feet in depth. The major tributaries to Lake Istokpoga are Josephine Creek and Arbuckle Creek, which are located in the northwest and north areas of the Lake, respectively. Water is discharged from the Lake through two major outlets: the Istokpoga canal that flows to the Kissimmee River and the S-68 Canal that flows through a series of canals to both Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. A reduction of high lake levels has provided the catalyst for development around shores of the Lake, including agriculture (citrus and caldium farms), pasture land, residential and commercial establishments. Many areas adjacent to the Lake that once flooded seasonally or infrequently are now drained. The lake is treasured by local residents for its recreational and scenic qualities. It is also an important regional resource that is being studied as part of the Kissimmee River Restoration Project and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project (CERP).

It is 914.95 miles from my house and should take about 14.66 hours travel time to get there.

We will be leaving about 2:00 Sunday afternoon. We will drive all night, fish all day and then collapse!

See you when I get back - God bless.

NIT

2009-03-17T14:08:00.003-04:00

242 / 0 / -23 (I hit the treadmill - Andrew!)

OK - I'm a little bummed - UK will play tonight in the opening round of the NIT (National Invitational Tournament). I've heard the jokes (hey I've even told some of them). NIT = Not In Tournament. The other day I heard one - NIT = we need a new coach Not In Texas! Being in the NIT says volumes. It says there are 64 teams better than you (maybe more). It says you didn't make the grade. It's winning Miss Congeniality in the Miss America Pageant.

There are the usual suspects in the NIT - but Kentucky is not among that number. Many teams play all season just to get there, the Cats don't. They play for the big dance. They play for March Madness and the Final Four.

But I wonder how often the church is like the NIT. Many are satisfied to play for the consolation tournament. Many are too afraid to do things different so they too could go to the dance! Far too many are content to stay in the no-name conferences that do the same-old same-old never seeing lives changed. This is not just happening in churches - it is happening in entire denominations, and sadly in many individual lives. People and churches who want to play the game in a sub par way - hoping for their bid in the "also ran" tournament.

There is greatness in Kentucky - Patterson and Meeks are simply phenomenal - but they were surrounded by too many NIT level players. I hope they return next year. I hope Billy G gets it together next year. I hope we find a point guard next year. But all that's just a game. There's really nothing for me to lose in this...but some team pride.

Not so the game God has called us to play, the race we are supposed to win... listen to the words of Paul.

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
1 Cor 9:24-27 (NIV)

I'm just saying....

2009-03-14T15:17:00.002-04:00

242 / +2 / -23

"I'm just saying"... Have you caught yourself saying that? I have. It's one of those phrases that catches on and then gets used to death! And I will likely do it myself, but it got me thinking. What are we just saying?
WARNING RANT COMING!

So what are we saying? I get really ticked when I hear people say "Oh my God!", I even see people text it (OMG)." Excuse me - I can understand using the Lord's name in vain slipping out (not an excuse here) -but give me a break. When you are at the key board or keypad on your phone - you have to put in those letters! So I ask people once in a while if they are praying or just using the Lord's name in vain? Come on people!

The "F" bomb - you just gotta love it when that one is dropped. Of course in my line of work most people don't use it around me... but I see it in texts, on MySpace and Facebook. I have recently dropped two "friends" from my Facebook list for a proliferation of the "F"bomb. Again - this is something someone took the time to type in! My daughter even warned her friends not to cuss while texting her - because I would block thier numbers if I saw it.

But how does, "I'm just saying" line up with how I'm living? Are we saying we are Christ followers but all the while more like casual spectators? Are we saying that Jesus Christ is #1 in our lives - but the evidence proves he is way down the list? Are we saying that we trust him - but act like the sky is falling everytime one of life's little surprises shows up?

"I'm just saying" will run it's course, but what about what we are actually saying? Let me put it this way. If how we are living is not lining up with what we are saying we need to change how we are living. If we are not willing to change that - then we need to just SHUT IT! I'm just saying.....

Facebook

2009-03-05T09:40:00.003-05:00

240/ - 3.8 / 25 (today's weight / loss since last post/ total loss)

OK - I took the plunge and registered on Facebook - Wow! It has been amazing. I am up to 220 friends. I was previously on MySpace - but found it a total waste of time and pretty much a cesspool. I had only gotten on it to keep up with my son and his friends... that was down right disturbing (not my son - but some of his friends).

But Facebook has already been a great minstry tool for me. I have been able to finally put some more name to some faces. I have picked up little details about what is going on in folks lives (good and bad). And I have connected with some old friends (some from back in my high school days). I have been able to offer encouragement to folks that I would not have even known needed it.

Facebook is one of several sites in the whole "social networks"genre. It is designed to help people get and stay connected with others. I'm sure there are good and bad aspects to this... The good is that connections can be made.. the bad is that connections can be made... But as a venue it is in itself neutral.

But this whole "social networks" craze got me to thinking. What about God's "social network"? How does God want us to stay connected with him? The truth is God wants us to stay connected with him. And just like we have a variety of ways to stay connected with others (face to face, phone, text, Facebook, e-mail, etc) God has several "networks" we can plug into as well.

Here are some we need to really use. His word - it's like God's e-mail to us. Prayer - you could call it "spiritual texting" Fellowship with others in the body (much like facebook).

So how well are we connected in God's "social network"? And are we spending more time on Facebook than in Hisbook?

Weekend Update

2009-03-02T09:46:00.003-05:00

243.8 / +.2 / 21.2

Busy weekend - Melody out of town Fri - Sun scrapping thing at Gen. Butler State Park.... she had a good time with some "issues" - but what event does not have some glitches.

Saturday - went to Lebanon Junction (south of Louisville on I-65). I participated in the funeral for Norma Jackson. She was my secretary at North Bullitt Christian Church. I led a prayer and was a pall bearer. I've never been a pall bearer before - it is a sobering experience. It was really good to hook up with some old friends from our days in Louisville. Wow - some of those folks are getting old!

Sunday - went to the 9:00 service - worship was awesome and Andrew Gill rocked the house. Great message on forgiveness. Our youth are so blessed to have a guy like him leading... check out the sermon on our website.

Sunday afternoon - Tim King, Nina and I went to the Bass Pro Shop - we were there with like 10,000 of our closest friends... Man was it crowded.. but we had fun. Got to check out some new fishing stuff and saw them feed the fish in the big tank. Man I want to get a hold on that 12 pound large mouth they have in there!

Time with Nina - Nina has been going through a rough spot - but we had some great talks this weekend - she is such a wonderful young lady. I loved the time with just us.

Sunday afternoon - when we got home - Melody had just gotten there... sweet! My baby is back home. We had some great conversation about her trip, our life, our daughter and stuff in general.

OH - WE ALSO WENT OVER AND SAW HAYDEN! The new grandbaby is rocking our world! And Abigail never ceases to amaze us.

Is God good or what?

Hayden Elizabeth Sharp

2009-02-27T09:04:00.003-05:00

243.6 / -.4 / 21.4

This weeks highlights...

NEW GRAND DAUGHTER! Hayden Elizabeth Sharp - born 2/23/09 - 7'2" - 19" long - PTL!

Finished chapter 4 in Revelation in our Wednesday night Bible Study.

Finally joined Facebook - up to 107 friends already.

Avoided the treadmill - uggghhhh - I've got to get this together!

Did I mention I'm a new granddad again?

She's Here!

2009-02-24T12:36:00.007-05:00

244 / +2 / 21 - I was bad :-(

Wow - I can't believe it - she is finally here.... My new granddaughter arrived Monday afternoon at 12:02 PM - she weighed 7'2" and was 19 inches long - she still has no name... LOL Mom, Dad, sister, and baby are all doing well. If you want to whole story check out Beth's Blog.

Grandpa and Grandma are doing GREAT!

Did you know?

2009-02-19T10:01:00.004-05:00

242 / -1.3 / 23

So my wife sends me this e-mail about aluminum foil - and here's the deal. Did you know they have little tabs on the end of the box that you can push in to lock in the roll? That keeps the roll from coming out when you pull out X amount of foil. Guess what - they have the same thing on other types of stuff too. Like Saran Wrap, even the "cheapo stuff" - I checked!

Who hasn't tried to pull out some foil or plastic wrap only to have the roll come out of the box, hit the floor and roll away. And can you explain this to me - how it will easily unroll going across the floor - but when you need just so much to cover a dish it fights you tooth and nail? That's another post!

Anyway - I got to thinking. How often is my life like that? How many times have I tried to do something only to have something jump out of the box and take off on it's own? Attempt a new ministry only to see it unravel. Come up with a creative idea only to find out that while it was creative - it was also unfruitful. I wonder if I have the tabs pushed in to keep the roll in place?

So what tabs does God have in place to keep me centered? Keep the stuff in the box that needs to stay there, while letting out what needs to be let out? And what about you?

All you have to do to make the foil stay put is push in the little tabs - it's that simple. So where is God wanting to push in the tabs in your life? Are you letting Him do it? Or would you rather go free wheeling where ever you want to?

Vision or "Latest and Greatest"?

2009-02-17T12:17:00.003-05:00

243.2 / -1.9 / 21.8 (Today's weight / loss since last post / total loss)

I've been having an ongoing discussion with Dan and Justin about vision (with others chiming in occasionally). Here are some things that I've been thinking about.

1 - When it comes to vision, make sure it's God's not just the latest and greatest idea from another church or leader. You don't want to wind "up a Willow Creek without a Bill Hybils". Don't make the mistake of seeing how God's vision for a sister church is working and assume it will work for you.

2 - When it comes to Vision the biggest mistake we can make is putting it out there and then not following through with it. And this takes tenacity - you have to stay the course. God's vision will always call for change, change is hard and will always be resisted. But if it's God's vision you MUST STAY THE COURSE. If it's not God's vision why would we do it anyway? If it is God's vision why would we try anything else?

3 - Beware of distractions! I have made the mistake many times of saying yes to a good idea without considering the distractions to the true vision this new thing creates. Distractions can also come from well meaning, God loving people. "Did you hear what they are doing at "1st church"? Or "I read this guys blog - this is something we have to do". Wow, there's this great new book! While all of this can be good - it can also be distracting. When I find myself spending more time reading blogs than God's word something is wrong!

4 - Another temptation is to get caught up in the creative process and forget what the main thing is. I love being creative, I am surrounded by creative people, and I serve a creative God. God desires to be glorified in our creativity! But there is the temptation in trying to come up with something so cool that we loose sight of the message we are trying to get out or the vision we are following. While people may be attracted by the "wow factor" they will only be changed by God's vision being lived out in their lives.

5- The flip side of #4 is the danger of #5 - Not allowing God's inspiration of creativity to come out as we follow the vision. God deserves the very best we have to offer. God has brought certain people to our church - we need to utilize the gifts these people have for His Glory. And that means we must be creative! We just don't need to let the tail wag the dog.

6 - The last one (at least for now) is huge - it is the temptation to seek God's vision in the wrong places. God's vision will only come through time with God. Time in His word, on our knees, away from the table (fasting), etc. And while we hunger for God's vision - it is way to easy to just Google the topic and see what's going on in other churches and let that be our guide. What we must do is seek God first for the Vision and then, and only then, gain insight and help as needed from others.

OK - I've got to clean my reading glasses - I'm not sure my vision is as clear as it should be - how's yours?

Simply Kingdom

2009-02-16T09:27:00.002-05:00

OK - it's unusual the I post more than once a day (usually every few days). But Brett Oliver sent me this story... it is awesome so I wanted to share it with you all.

One Life to Love

2009-02-16T08:01:00.002-05:00

245.1 / +3.1 / 19.9

Here is the video I talked about this weekend.... check it out... it is awesome!

Magic Jack

2009-02-11T14:50:00.005-05:00

242/ -1.8 / 23

OK - I'm brain dead - nothing especially insightful or challenging to blog about. So I'm going to post about something cool.

Most of you have heard about the Magic Jack. It's a little box that plugs into a USB port on your computer. You then plug a phone line into the box and you have phone service over your computer. We decided to kill our land line and go with just cell phones. But there was still a benefit to having a land line too. So I decided to try out the Magic Jack. We've been using it for about six weeks and it is great!

Here are the benefits I have found so far.

Cost - The initial cost is 39.00 and additional years are only 19.00. That's it. You pay 39.00 and get unlimited local and long distance.

Clarity - the clarity is good as long as you don't have someone downloading or doing anything that takes significant bandwidth.

Options - It comes with call waiting, caller ID, forwarding, etc (all at no additional cost.)

So if you are thinking about doing away with your home phone you may want to try this out. You will need to get a new number (and KY does offer local numbers in the 502 area code).

Note - you do have to have a high speed connection - cable, DSL, etc.

If you, like me are wanting to save some money - try it out. I did check with some of my more tech savvy friends and they highly recommended it.

Turnovers - ugggghhhh

2009-02-03T13:01:00.002-05:00

243.8 / -3.2 / 21.2 (wt today / loss since last post / total loss) - Wooo Hooo a Superbowl rebound!

I hate turnovers - no not "apple turnovers" - I'm talking about turnovers in basketball. You know, that gut wrenching event that seems to happen 2 out of 3 times Kentucky's guards touch the ball. It is infuriating to watch. Seeing a team with several players in double figures losing games to teams they should beat. And not because they faced a superior opponent - but because they simply gave the ball away too many times!

I even thought of a remedy - Just throw the ball out of bounds and let the other team get it on the inbound. At least that way we would have a chance to steal it! UGGGGHHHHH!

But then how many turnovers do we have in life? How many times should we be winning the game but wind up losing because we simply give the "ball" away too many times. And how do we do that?

- We turn the ball over when we start trusting ourselves instead of the Holy Spirit.
- We turn the ball over when we give in to our habits instead of giving them over to God.
- We turn the ball over in our marriages when we neglect the most important people in the marriage, our partners.
- We turn the ball over when we let the TV, Computer, and Video games raise our kids.
- We turn the ball over when we are too afraid of being viewed as intolerant to tell a friend they are in eternal danger without Christ.

You see, in basketball, a turnover is usually caused by a player not paying attention. Not paying attention to a couple basic rules of the game - You can't win if you don't score, and you can't score if you don't have the ball.

God has put the ball in your court - what will you do with it? Will you score or simply turn it over?

You've got to be kidding!

2009-02-02T14:02:00.003-05:00

247 / +2 / 18 - I was bad - too many Superbowl snacks (especially hot wings!)

I read something called "Monday Morning Insight" almost every Monday - if not on Monday I read it later in the week. It is a collection of news and blog listings compiled weekly by Todd Rhodes. You may want to check it out and subscribe.

So I'm reading it and come across this article in Ethics Daily - it blew my mind! Here is a part of it... take the time to read the rest of it too.

The guy telling this story is a Pastor and his daughter is a server at a Chili's restaurant - You're not going to believe this.

"A group of six church-goers came in the other night after their evening services and sat down, not in her area but in another server's. When the girl came to greet them and take their drink order, one of them said, "We want to tell you up front that we will not be tipping you tonight because..... "

Are you ready?

"... we do not believe in people working on Sunday."

The rest of the story is amazing - but wow this got my dander up.

My wife and I both have worked in the food service industry. I know full well the reputation the "church crowd" has in restaurants. Most servers simply hate to wait on church people and here is why. And this is first hand experience.

- They are often rude (can you believe that?)
- They hog up a table forever in "fellowship"
- They have a reputation of being demanding.
- And the worst thing - they are notoriously cheap - often leaving no tip at all.
- And I've personally seen this one - leaving a gospel tract without a tip!

So here's the game plan. When you go on Sunday (or any other day) ask how Jesus would treat these people? He would love them right? How can we show them we love them? After all they are having to give up their weekend to work. And they have a predetermined negative view of the "church crowd".

- So be nice - I mean really nice, polite, patient, complimentary, encouraging, and grateful.
- Make them want you to be the one sitting in their station next time.
- Tip - and I mean tip generously. They are making a living serving you. Show them that not only do you care about the service they give - but more than that you care about them!
- Do the math! It is customary to tip at least 15% - anything less is considered cheap. Why not help lighten their load a bit by being a little extravagant here? Give them 20-30% and you can easily do this by simply drinking water that is free and pass on the Soda Pop.
- If you don't have enough money to tip - go to McDonald's or somewhere where tipping is not customary.

I know - there are some out there that think the extablishment should just pay them more - and maybe they should, but they don't and most likely won't. That's the system live with it or eat at home!

But if you just insist on being cheap - please for heaven's sake don't even give a hint that you know me if you see me there or have any association with Harmony. Enough people are going to hell because of hypocritical Christians who preach love but don't live it. We don't need the bad press!

Exxon Mobile Profits

2009-01-30T11:23:00.004-05:00

245 / 1.2 / 20 - Much Better!

OK - Now it's official - I'm ticked off!

I read Yahoo news pretty much every day (often several times a day). Well, today I read something that hit me wrong - I'm guessing it will you to.

Exxon-Mobil just posted their year end profits for 2008. Well there's good news and bad news. The bad news is that their 4th quarter profits were down 33% from the 4th quarter in 2007 (Not to worry - it wasn't a loss - just not as much profit). Now the "good news" - their annual profit was a record breaking 45.2 Billion. Poor souls broke their own record of 40.6 Billion in 2007!

It's just nice to know that while we are facing enormous lay offs, foreclosures, bankruptcies, and various other economy woes we call all pitch in and help out a "brother".

So every time you fill up and wonder why the price at the pump is going up while the price of sweet crude is going down just smile and feel good. You and I are doing our part to help Exxon Mobil maintain the standard of living they so deserve.

OK - I've vented - now I have to go fill up my truck and PUKE!

For the complete story on Yahoo go here.

Keep it going

2009-01-29T10:09:00.002-05:00

246.2 / +.5 / 18.8 - ugggghhhh

OK - I've been remiss. I have not posted for a couple of days and I really don't have much right now to blog about. I'm sure something will pop up later and I'll blog about it.

So for now - I'm still alive and well and as you can see by the numbers I have picked up a couple more ounces - uggghhh. Still not working on the treadmill - and it shows!

I've got to get off my butt!

Romantic Weekend!

2009-01-26T13:42:00.005-05:00

245.7 / + .7 / 19.3 - Not bad for a weekend in Pigeon Forge!

OK - I wanted to write about our weekend - I planned and executed a romantic weekend for my wife - and boy did she need it. Lot's going on in our world right now. So I'll just list some high points - OK - Not all the High Points - ;)

1 - The destination was a surprise (Pigeon Forge) - she knew we were going, just not where.

2 - The drive down was amazing - just spending a few un-interrupted hours with her was awesome!

3 - Shopping with her. When we got there I gave her a couple hundred bucks with clear instructions - she could not buy anything for anyone but her! And I was willing to go anywhere she wanted and and look at anything she wanted to see - THIS WAS HER WEEKEND and all I wanted was to share it with her. So that meant we went to a number of Christmas stores, a couple of pottery type places and we went shopping for a purse - she wound up getting two! And yes men I stayed with her all the way. Although she did wander off a couple of times - but I found her!

4 - We stayed at a Quality Inn with both a jacuzzi and fire place - can I get an ooo-la-la? It was awesome. We even took a break Saturday afternoon just long enough to see the 2nd half of the UK - Ala game - GO CATS!

5 - We ate at the Applewood Family Restaurant (light #0 in Pigeon Forge or is it Sevierville?) Whatever - that's where I gained the .7 pounds - could have been 7 pounds! It was phenomenal!

6 - Sunday afternoon we visited a number of shops and galleries in the Arts and Crafts community in Gatlinburg - Wow! About 2/3 of the places we went past were closed - not sure if it was because it was Sunday or winter hours or the economy. But we still had a blast!

7 - And one of the coolest things was we got to use our AARP card! Yep - Melody has been dodging getting hers for over a year but I insisted. Well they came in this past week and we got 10% at the hotel. SWEET! That's why I married an older woman! Some of you may not know this - but I'm not old enough to get the AARP card yet (at least not till April). But I'm all about getting that Sr discount wherever I can!

So guys - get off your butt and do something romantic for your wife - and ladies - feel free to share this blog with your man!

And baby - thanks for a great weekend and I love you most - "I'm just sayin'".

Weekend Away!

2009-01-23T14:35:00.004-05:00

245 / +.4 / 20

OK - not much to say - I'm getting ready to head out of town for the weekend with my wonderful wife! I can't wait. We're going to an undisclosed place (it's a surprise for her). We will be back Sunday afternoon - SO DON'T CALL!

Mad as _______ !

2009-01-21T17:36:00.004-05:00

244.6 / .9 / 20.4 - That's what I'm talking about!

OK - I'm mad - I mean really mad! I've had two conversations in less than an hour with guys who's marriages are in various stages of divorce. God says, "he hates divorce" and I know why. It just sucks big time!

Folks pray! Pray for you own families. Pray for your neighbors families. Pray for your co-workers families. Pray for my family. Pray for the staff's family. Just pray for every family you can think of. The Devil is alive and well and he's kicking butt and taking names!

Man, I'm telling you - I'm sitting here with tears rolling down my face after hearing the pain these guys are going through - and I'm sure their wives are too.

Please keep us in prayer as we prepare for our next series at church - it's about relationships (and that includes marriage)... and boy do we need it... But more than that we need to heed it!

OK - I've got some really bad words going through my head - so I better stop.

_______ - Christian???

2009-01-20T14:33:00.002-05:00

246.5 / + .5 / 18.5 - uggghhh

First, let me say how proud I am to be an American today. Seeing the first African-American become president brought tears to my eyes. And while I don't share all his political views (even disagreeing strongly with some) - I do celebrate the American system of democracy. I thought his speech was spectacular and I thought Rick Warren rocked! As to the other guy who prayed - not so much.... ???

But I do have a question - Why is Barack Obama referred to as an African-American? He is 1/2 black and 1/2 white? Why not a Caucasian-American? Or better yet - why not just an American? Why are some people labeled Asian-American, or Mexican-American? Now to be sure African-American is much better than some labels that have been used in the past - but it's still a label.

And what about our Christian labels? What benefit is there in being labeled a Baptist, Lutheran or Methodist? Don't these labels only show our differences instead of celebrating our common faith? Even in the Christian church where many pride themselves on "the name". Some say, "we don't claim to be the only Christians - just Christians only". And yet the differences quickly find a way to surface often overshadowing the commonality.

And what about us at HCC? Our uniqueness as individuals if unchecked has a way of helping pride to get in the way of true unity. Some might feel that their particular part of the ministry is better than someone elses? Folks that's a big pile of crap! God gave everyone one of us different gifts - but only one purpose. But when the tail (the gifts) wag the dog (the purpose)... we have a mighty wierd looking dog!

Consider this - Jesus' last prayer with his disciples was a prayer for unity. What a mess we have made of that one!

Now before you are tempted to throw something my way. I did not say, nor will I say, as some propose that we toss out doctrine for the cause of unity - but we would certainly do well to make clear distinctions between essential doctrine and preference.

I'm Dean Scott - I'm not a Baptist-Christian, not a Methodist-Christian, and I'm not even a Christian Church-Christian. I'm just a Christ follower (Christian) and that's more than enough to keep me quite busy.

Armour

2009-01-16T15:42:00.006-05:00

246.0 / 1.8 / 19

OK - I'm really letting you in on who I am and who I can be.

Preface - Nothing bad is happening, I'm not leaving HCC, and I don't have cancer. But for a about a week I've felt like the Devil had my number. Something was discussed with me last week and it was done in love and in the right tone - I really mean that. But it hit me wrong for some reason. In the discussion I mentioned concerns and thought that was that. But a couple of days later I hadn't let it go. As a matter of fact I was starting to be consumed by it.

So much so that I decided to fast concerning the issue. So for the last four days I have been fasting. I didn't tell anyone - not even Melody. Now I'm not writing about this to promote me in any way - I know what a "meathead" I can be. But I think I've learned some things.

I thought the discussion was the big issue. I think now the big issue was me. I don't see myself as a prideful person - but then who would - right? But as I was praying and seeking God and trying to fight off the "crap" going through my head it dawned on me. Is this a legitimate concern? I concluded that it was - but my emotional reaction was ridiculous and Satan was using it big time. I'm still not sure it was pride or ego or what - but I know full well it wasn't something from God.

I was reminded yet again of the truth of Ephesians 6:12-13 - For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

I am surrounded by people right now that are facing similar struggles, several on our staff are feeling the attacks daily. And to them and anyone reading this... don't forget - we need to put on the full armor - not just bits and pieces of it.

The Bible tells us some things will not be resolved without prayer and fasting - I highly recommend that we all take that advice.

Limitations? What limitations?

2009-01-15T10:34:00.004-05:00

248.2 / .8 / 16.8

Life Without Limbs organization is an organization founded in 2005 by Nick Vujicic. This man was born without arms or legs. He faced unbelievable struggles yet found grace in God and a call to turn his human limitations over to the power of our God who knows no limits. He speaks all around the world about faith and the impact that faith in God can have on the world.

Don't feel sorry for this guy - He gets it! So the next time you are tempted to give excuses why you can't do something God is leading you to do - maybe dig this out and watch it again. And then get off your butt and do it!

Are you hitting your free throws?

2009-01-14T08:29:00.007-05:00

249 / 1.6 / 16 - So far so good - thanks for your prayers and encouragement!

What a game! Last night I watched the Cats play the Vols. Or should I say I watched Jodi Meeks play the Vols. The dude was unconscious! The kid is phenomenal and even has his own web site! (But then who doesn't right?)

Anyway - last night the Cats beat the Vols 90-72 IN KNOXVILLE!!! You gotta love that. I even got to watch the game with Rodney Quinton (Pez) - He's a huge UT fan and for the first time in a long time he was speechless, probably because he didn't want to cuss in front of the preacher.

But the real show was Meeks. He hit 10 threes (setting a new team record) and ultimately scored 54 point breaking Dan Issel's mark of 53 set back in 1970. A record many thought might never be broken.

During the game Pez mentioned someone's shared opinion that UK only had 2 division 1 players (he credited Andrew Gill with this remark - I didn't check that out - but I'm sure if it's not the case he'll respond - LOL) Anyway at the end of the day UK beat the Vols with only one division 1 player. I guess that's all you need to win in Rocky Top. Nobody likes overkill right?

OK - enough gloating - what I think may be lost in this incredible feat is that Meeks hit every one of his 14 free throws. And in the game of life (including the spiritual life) you'll have days when you have a chance to hit the long range bombs and when you do it's awesome. But day to day, week after week, month after month - it's not the 3-point shots that make you a winner - it's hitting the free throws.

Here are some free throws we need to hit consistently. Time with God every day in prayer and the word. Acts of love and kindness to friends and starngers alike. Daily taking inventory of the junk in our lives that we need to deal with. Being faithful in the little things not just looking to make the miracle shots.

Amazing Weekend!

2009-01-12T09:24:00.003-05:00

250.6 / 4.2 / 14.4 - Woo Hoo !!!!

What an amazing weekend! PTL! WOW! AWESOME! AMAZING! etc, etc, etc......

Have I mentioned lately how much I love Harmony! It's no secret that I love my job - I really do... but sometimes it's just over the top! This weekend was like that.

First, we blew the doors off Saturday night with 319 in attendance! And I did something I've never done before - I did the Texas Two Step - ON STAGE - with someone who was not my wife! You'll just have to watch the video to see it and know why.

Sunday was even better - I danced with a man! Again, you'll just have to watch the video. But thanks Joey Jones for showing me how to do the two-step at the 9:00 service. And a big thanks to Susan Dummer for helping me out at 10:45 - she danced the two-step like only a Texan can do it.... and for her benefit - "Go Aggies" and thanks for Billy G!

Our overall attendance was 1268 and we had one transfer and after church we had a baptism! I love doing that! Then the greatest blessing of all. After church a friend of mine named Pat came up and said he wanted to get baptized too and wondered if I could find the time? Well DUH - Of course I could! So at 3:00 in the afternoon I met him and his son and two other friends and we got 'R done!

Now here's the best part - I have been working with Pat for a couple of years and he's been a joy to watch in the journey. He had tons of questions and was really honest about his doubts - but God is not afraid of our questions and our doubts don't bother Him either as long as we're serious about wanting to know. Pat was and now he's made the step. I was blessed to see it!

The Cafe continues to be a "hot spot"... Folks are coming earlier to hang out and don't know how to leave once church is over. Man, I love that! Saturday night I even told some how to turn out the lights when they leave. It's like every service is a family reunion and I really think that's what God had in mind when he started this whole thing we call the church. Maybe that's why it's so often called in the Bible a family.

God bless you all.

Fat Attack!

2009-01-08T08:29:00.003-05:00

OK - the good, the bad and the ugly. The good - I've been sticking to the diet, the bad I have not been hitting the treadmill, the ugly - well here it is... 254.8 / +1.1 / 10.2 (today's weight / loss since last post / total loss).

Now for the sermonette (sorry Jon) - so what's the deal?

I not only did not lose any weight in the last couple of days - I actually gained a pound. Well there are some obvious and maybe not so obvious reasons. The obvious - I have not been exercising and I have been eating a little too late in the evening - even though I'm eating within Adkins parameters.

The not so obvious - There are likely some uncounted carbs slipping in somewhere, simple body chemistry and metabolism can be a factor - I may wake up tomorrow having dropped 2-3 pounds. I also know that the first week on a low-carb diet gives you the greatest short term results - but they are slower after that.

So what are the spiritual applications here? Well the obvious - if you don't exercise spiritually (living you life under the direction of the Spirit) you will not be progressing in your walk with Christ (no matter how much you may be learning). If you are putting junk into your life - you will see junk coming out of it too.

The not so obvious - spiritual growth is not always visible (at least not day to day). While growth can and should be ongoing there are times when it really looks like you are making progress and other times when it seems you are not. But if you stay the course seeking God and His will every day there will be an overall growth.

So I'm encouraged - I know what I'm doing, and I know what I need to do... I also know that as irritated as I was to post these numbers today - I'm glad for the encouragement and accountability this gives me.

So thanks for the continued support.

2009-01-05T10:08:00.003-05:00

253.7 / 3.9 / 11.3 (weight today / loss since last post / total loss)

I read a number of blogs (not too many). One that I read pretty religiously is Perry Noble's. In this post from the weekend he made an interesting statement. He wrote, "If a churches goal is to keep the Christian happy ... then God probably isn't happy!" What a line!

I got to thinking - what does a church do to make Christians happy that may not be in line with God's plan?

They focus on a style that appeals to the "churched" not the lost, or even one that honors God. (This might be music, preaching, building use, staff selection, etc.)

They have an inward look instead of an outward viewpoint. They may not say it but - but they are driven by what "we need", not by what it takes to reach the lost, and be the hands and feet of Jesus to a suffering community and world.

They avoid the real tough "life issues" in preaching and teaching, so they can focus on theology (not that solid theology is not important). The result is overstuffed, inactive, Biblically literate spiritual couch potatoes.

They spend a lot of time and energy trying to make unhappy sheep comfortable. Their leaders and pastors must spend tons of time "putting out fires" and pampering members. Someone is going to have to explain to me someday why we need to invite people to their own church!

Churches that are trying to make Christians happy are driven by popular opinion so there is no need to rely on the Spirit. But Churches trying to please God are constantly praying and seeking God's direction because they know that "their ways are not God's ways" automatically.

OK - this is not an exhaustive list - but it's a start...

Oh, and one other thing - I AM SO GLAD TO BE A PART OF A CHURCH THAT IS NOT LIKE THIS! May the Lord keep us focusing on Him and not US!

Sponsor an Executive

2009-01-03T11:21:00.004-05:00

First things first - 257.4 / 7.4 / 7.4 (weight today/ loss since last post / total loss) - see previous post to understand this... :)

Of course this represents the first couple of days on low carb - and is mostly water loss - but hey it's going in the right direction!

Funny Youtube clip. I cashed in my 403B so I could help - why not join me and help make a difference too....

265

2009-01-01T12:22:00.002-05:00

OK - I'm putting it out there! I need to do something about my weight! I just jumped on the scale and tipped it at 265! Yes, you can officially call me "fat boy", "tubby", or "the great one". Now to be fair I did pig out A LOT over the last few days with Christmas and New Years festivities so the it might be more like 260 (that's so much better isn't it?)

I even went onto one of those sites that calculates your ideal body weight. When I put in the numbers the computer crashed! Just kidding - but here is what it told me - Ideal weight range 170-187 lbs (77.3-85 kg.). It even did the math for me telling me I was overweight by 73 lbs (33 kg.) And then it even suggested that I may wish to consult with my physician for medical help!

Add to this that recently my Doctor put me on some cholesterol meds and seemed concerned about my "sugar" levels - he was not amused when I just informed him that I'm a sweet kind of guy.

So here's the plan - I get on and stay on a low carb regimen. This will help lose the weight and have the added benefit of being in line with a diabetic diet. (I don't have diabetes yet - but am heading there fast). Should help lower the cholesterol too. It has in the past.

And I need accountability. That's where the blog comes in. I am going to post the numbers every time I post a blog. They will be in this format: weight / total loss / loss or gain since last post. It will look like this (265 / 0 / 0). If I had lost 2 pounds since the last post it would look like this (263 / 2 / 2).

I may even post some other related things - like how long I hit the treadmill, etc.

You don't need to reply to any of this, but you are welcome to. I just need to know there are folks out there I'm "reporting too".

You can pray with me about this too.

This is not just a health issue - it is also an issue of honoring God. I have clearly not been doing this when it comes to my own body.

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. (1 Cor 6:19-20 NIV)

10 Predictions for 2009

2008-12-29T15:27:00.003-05:00

Here are my top 10 predictions for 2009

#1 - Perry Ryan and Charles Penn will both get hair plugs but only one of them will be successful - you'll have to wait and see which one.

#2 - Nell Anne will dye her hair jet black and get an eye brow pierced so she can reach out to the "raver" crowd.

#3 - Dan Waits will only work 75 hours a week instead of his usual 86.

#4 - Melody Scott will finally have enough of my stories about her and I will preach one weekend with a black eye!

#5 - Valerie will take in more stray cats and be labeled the "cat lady" in her neighborhood.

#6 - Andrew Gill will find Jesus and abandon the Louisville Cardinals.

#7 - Robert Smith will publish his first book - The Power of the Pause.

#8 - Tina King will invent a new thing that will revolutionize the church cleaning world - the 8 day week and the 30 hour day!

#9 - Sandi Froelich will confess that she has been secretly using peachtree again instead of quick books.

#10 - Justin Boyd and Miranda will find out they are pregnant with triplets... doing their part for church growth... hey isn't that what a "grow pastor" is supposed to do?

Christmas Update

2008-12-29T15:03:00.004-05:00

Hey all - thanks to a neighbor of my in laws with unsecured wireless I can check my e-mail and post a blog. Thanks Jeffrey (whoever you are).... :)

This has been one awesome Christmas season for us. Busy as usual but great.

On Christmas eve I picked up my brother Mark and we headed to church for the Christmas Eve service. He was actually doing pretty well. Most of you know he has paranoid schizophrenia. So you never know what you're going to get. Thankfully we had a good time. He still suffers terribly but seemed to be a little bit more of "himself" than I have seen in a while. The service was awesome - lots of folks hung around afterward for coffee, hot chocolate and "goodies".

On Christmas Day I got up early and started cooking - YES I DID MOST OF THE COOKING! I fixed dressing with mushrooms, pecans, onions and of course I used broth from the giblets. I pealed and cooked potatoes and made home made mashed potatoes, I cooked the green beans and deep fried the turkey. Other folks brought some other goodies - but hey this is my blog so it's about me. Suffice it to say we had a feast.

Then we opened gifts... (actually we opened some before everyone got there) - I think everyone was pleased with what they received I know I was... the biggies for me were a new set of gouges for my lathe and a new drill press - Melody is the BOMB! Jon was pleased with his new guitar strap (a really nice hand made one that should last him for years, and a couple of gift cards to guitar center - he wants a new pedal). Nina was thrilled with her new Lee Middleton doll and an ipod. And everyone seemed to enjoy the new wii game system - it's a blast! And of course I did not get Melody anything with a cord... but I did get here some things that were shiney and smelly!

But after dinner the fun began! The princess (our grand daughter) was in the house! Man, a three year old can make things fun. She was saying things like, "I love it" and "I've always wanted one of these". And then she got on the wii. She was playing the bowling game - what a thrill to watch.

Well the next day we hit the road - we drove some nine hours to NW Illinois to visit with Melody's folks. In so many ways they are more than in-laws to me. Much more like parents. I have been so blessed with them for 30 years now. Not sure how many more years we will have them - but we know we will have them for eternity, if not here.

We did go see the movie Seven Pounds... A MUST SEE! But be warned - bring some tissues - lots of them.

We will be heading back home tomorrow and I can't wait. I love coming up here - but I love where I live. I can't wait to go pick up my drill press at Sears and try out my new "toys". I also can't wait to see Jon, Beth, Dale and Abigail. They all stayed in KY this year. It's hard to believe that the days are gone when all the kids make this trip with us. But Nina is a joy and someday she will not make the trip either - so we're just enjoying the time we have.

I hope you all had as great a Christmas as I have had. God bless you all.

What Child is This?

2008-12-24T15:34:00.003-05:00

I found this clip on Youtube - it is just awesome! Enjoy... Merry Christmas

Transparency

2008-12-22T11:42:00.002-05:00

I had a ton of people come up to me or e-mail me and tell me how much they appreciate my transparency. I thought I'd write about it. I have tried to be transparent for a long time and I think I generally am. I guess I have pretty much been a "here I am, take it or leave it" kind of guy most of my life", but then I got into "the ministry".

I was just amazed at how many people have tried to force me into some "preacher model". You know - the guy who stands up front and looks like he is closer to God than anyone else in the room. The guy who doesn't get real - he just gets religious! I could tell you horror stories of people trying to make me change. But I was blessed by some incredible models and some pivotal things in my earlier years.

#1 - I grew up poor. Not always, but there were times when we had it pretty rough. I can remember a local church bringing us "Christmas" one year. I guess we were somebody's "share the joy project". Although I was pretty young - I still remember the hot wheel track I played with for hours.

#2 - I remember having to use food stamps. Melody and I were the proud parents of a baby girl (Beth) and the economy of the early 80's was in the tank. We got food stamps for 3 months. I can remember going to the next town to shop so I would not run into anyone I knew.

#3 - I worked in the public sector at a Carpet Mill in Dalton Ga for about three years. I know 1st hand what most people have to face every day. I have not forgotten what it's like in the real world.

#4 - I have failed miserably a number of times. And while I was blessed to learn from them - I have also never tried to cover them up. I really am a huge monument to God's grace.

#5 - I literally get sick when I see men and women of God who I know good and well have "issues" just like me and everyone else, who publicly act like they have it all together.

#6 - I read God's word and see it filled with the stories of great men and women of God who had real struggles, real failures, real hurts, and real forgiveness.

I want to live my life helping people see God's grace - what better way can I do this than show them the grace I myself have found. And in my thinking this only happens when we are transparent.

So, thanks for the kudos - but I'm just doing what I was encouraged to do years ago. I'm just preaching what I know. I don't know much - but I do know this. Where sin abounds - God's grace abounds more.

Thank you Jesus for loving me. I'm still amazed every day that I get to share what you have done for me with others. Lord, help me not blow it!

I GOT SPAMMED!

2008-12-18T14:38:00.003-05:00

UGGGHHHH!

A big thanks to Andrew for giving me a quick "heads up". Evidently some meathead posted a comment that was a link to some porn site... (I took his word for it and just deleted it).

I also set it up so you have to do the "word verification" thing - sorry about that.

Oh well, such is life.

Have a great day and SPAMMERS - STAY OFF MY BLOG!!!!!

Random thoughts

2008-12-18T11:40:00.005-05:00

OK - I've been really, really busy so I've been remiss in blogging - sorry about that - :)

So here are just some random thoughts ....

1 - I'm pumped about this weeks sermon - we're talking about forgiving yourself - getting past the past.

2 - I'm working on a funeral sermon for a suicide victim - How do you make sense of something so senseless?

3 - I'm excited about some new woodworking projects... I love my lathe!

4 - Christmas is just 7 days away - The kids and the "princess" will be at the house - I love being a dad, a husband, and a grandpa!

5 - It's nice that my sewer is not plugged now - uggghhh - thanks Donnie and Dale!

6 - Only 83 more days till granddaughter #2 is born - at least that's what the Doctor is telling Beth.

7 - I'm thrilled that I get to help folks remember that Jesus is really what Christmas is about!

Good stuff from Perry Noble

2008-12-12T10:40:00.002-05:00

One of the blogs I try to read every day is Perry Noble's. Over the last few days he has posted a great four part article. "Four arguments you just can't win" I think anyone in church leadership would benefit from reading them - so here are the links....

#1

#2

#3

#4

Have a great weekend!

Why I don't like cats.

2008-12-10T10:02:00.002-05:00

Here is just one example of why I don't like cats.....

Who are you working for?

2008-12-09T10:13:00.004-05:00

My wife loves the movie Dave (OK - I like it too). It's about a guy who looks like the president and then when the president has a stroke he steps in to help the power brokers stay in power. It stars Kevin Klein and Sigourney Weaver (what a strange name). Anyway at one point in the movie he makes a speech and tells how "he had forgotten who he was hired to work for and that it was a temp job at that".

So how often do we forget the same thing? As a pastor there is a constant temptation to forget who you work for. I don't work for the one who praises everything I do or for the critic who constantly wants me to do things differently. I work for God.

I don't work for me either. When I slip into that mold I wind up seeking the praise of men instead of pleasing God. And believe me - those things are more often than not mutually exclusive.

So what about you? As a Christ follower - you work for God. More specifically we all are to work with God - but you know what I mean. Are you finding yourself working for others? Are you looking around to see who's watching? When you praise are you singing to the crowd or to an "audience of one"?

Dave got it right! He understood he worked for the people (as a president should). And he realized too that it was only temporary. You and I have a temp job too. It will only last a few years - let's all make sure we get the job done right!

Let's remember who we work for.

101 Class

2008-12-06T07:33:00.003-05:00

OK - it's 7:35 AM on a Saturday morning and I'm up and pumped! Today I get to teach my 101 class. That's the class I teach for folks who are new to HCC. It will go from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM (give or take - and depending on the Cat's schedule - LOL) It will be comprised of folks who are considering becoming members or have recently joined. I love this class. It's long, and I still have to preach tonight and tomorrow - but I love it. Here's some reasons why.

I get to know some folks that I would otherwise not get to given our size congregation.

I spend a few hours with people that are excted about being a part of something.

I get to share our vision - I love doing that!

I get to answer questions and this helps me make sure we're still on track.

I get to have donuts - MIKE'S DONUTS - and they are awesome!

I get to tell our story - how we got here in just 11 years.

I get to to tell folks about my family.

I get to tell folks about Jesus.

If you've never taken this class - why not sign up next time - I'd love to see you too.

This kicked my butt!

2008-12-05T09:43:00.003-05:00

There are many times when I read God's word that it really just hits me in the mouth! This is one such verse.

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Mat 6:14-15 (NIV)

Wow! Being the fallen being that I am this smacked me in the face. And I got to thinking about just how well do I forgive? And then I realize as a minister I have this professional level of forgiveness - but is it real? Here's what I mean. As a pastor I "have to be forgiving" - at least on the surface. I don't have the luxury of unloading on people who tick me off. I don't have the luxury of publicly holding grudges. I don't have the luxury of ignoring people who I might really want to.

But what about the "real me" - not the guy on the stage - but the guy in the mirror? How well am I doing there? To be honest I really do try to be forgiving. And most of the time I do pretty well. But there have been times when I hung on way too long. There have been people that have hurt me deeply and I have given in to the wicked side in me that wants them to suffer for what they have done. Of course I'm willing to let God handle the suffering all I ask is that I get a front row seat so I can see it. Yes, that's sick.

As I have been working on this new series - Christmas is Forgiving - it brought this thought again to me. Just how much like Jesus am I when it comes to forgiving others. While the easy answer is - I'm doing great. But then I wonder.

What about you?

Be careful who you hang up on!

2008-12-04T08:53:00.004-05:00

Most of you reading this have probably signed up on a "no call list" so people you don't know, selling stuff you don't want, can't call you at supper time. I did as soon as it came out.

But still I get a call once in a while - usually from political or non-profit organizations. And sometimes I'll give them a hearing and sometimes I just politely tell them I'm tapped out. But what happens when you get the really persistent ones? You know the ones who say, "I understand you can't afford $1,000.00 a week pledge - but what about $500.00 a week? No - how about $2.00? Can we count on you for anything? Etc. Etc. Etc.

Well - call me rude - but sometimes I actually hang up on them. Yes, I said it - I hang up.

Well this morning I'm reading Yahoo news and I read this really funny story about a US Representative (R) who hung up on our President Elect. And she did it twice because she thought it was a prank call. You can read the story here if you like... It is funny.

So here's something to think about.

How often do we hang up on God? How many times does he want to talk with us and we hang up? An issue comes up in life and we blow it off as just the normal junk of life and don't pray about it, while God is waiting to talk to us about it. How many times do we let other things "beep in" on our line when we should not take that call but stay connected with our Heavenly Father? Have we ever been guilty of putting Jesus on some "no call" list?

Be careful who you hang up on!

Weekend Update

2008-12-01T08:46:00.003-05:00

Wow what a great weekend - here's a recap.

Thursday - slept in, watched football - had dinner w/ the family (including Beth, Dale, and Abigail) - we were celebrating Beth's 27th birthday - seems like yesterday Melody and I were two clueless kids putting our new born in the car and thinking, "what do we do now?" Thursday was a great day!

Friday - slept in - headed to my brother's house in Flemingsburg (our annual Thanksgiving get together with his family). Pigged out - I MEAN PIGGED OUT! Headed home a little before midnight and heard what seemed like a UK pre-game on the radio. What's up with a Midnight tip-off? Anyway listened to the first half on the way back to G-town. Tried to get the 2nd half on TV - Yes it was on - but not on a channel I get - so I went up into my office and listened on the computer - pretty cool. And they found a way to win - GO CATS!

Saturday - slept in (I see a pattern here - sweeet!). Watched some football in the afternoon and grazed on left overs. About 6:30 Tim King came over to watch the UK - TN game - Rodney Quinton joined us about 7:00 (A huge Tennessee fan). It got ugly! Thought I'd have to kill him! At 10:30 watched the UK - WV game - I think they are making progress - I also think Michael Porter needs to hang it up as a point guard!

Sunday - slept in (till 9:00) - went to the 10:45 service, saw my birthday girl (Beth) singing in the praise team - cried a little - enjoyed a great message by Paul Curtis. Went to Golden Coral with the family. Came home intending to nap a little and wound up making a hospital call with my wife. And then went shopping.

All in all - a great weekend - hope yours was just as good.

The people's choice.

2008-11-26T08:38:00.003-05:00

There's a lot of talk about "the people's choice".

You have the People's choice awards for TV, movies, and music.

You have the people's choice in politics - that's why Barack Obama is our President Elect - he was the "people's choice"

And in many ways the "people's choice" is a great thing. But in some ways it can be a bad thing.

While I can't give all the details right now, we are nearing the end of our search for a "Grow Pastor" - and this whole "people's choice" idea came into the discussion.

We were blessed - I mean BIG TIME blessed with a number of incredible candidates. But one in particular may not have been the "people's choice" in some circles. His experience was not as much as some others. The size of church he minister's in was not as large as some. And in some ways he did not seem like the logical first choice. But that was all about the "people's choice".

But there was an even bigger factor playing in the process. For weeks some of us have been gathering for prayer at 6:15 on Tuesday mornings (uggghhhh). Many of you have joined us in praying for this yet unknown staff person - thanks so much!

And God really showed up. When all was said and done his Spirit was making it clear to all of us that one particular person was the right choice.

During the discussion I brought up David, the young shepherd boy. While the people's choice for king had been Saul - he was clearly not God's man. David was because he was a man after God's own heart. And that's what we were looking for. God's man, not Dean's man, or the elder's man". And barring some unforeseen issue we have found him!

IS GOD AWESOME OR WHAT!

103 to 111

2008-11-18T15:19:00.004-05:00

103 to 111

Some of you may not know what this means - but if you are a Ky Wildcat fan you do. That's the final score of the KY - VMI game last Friday. And Ky posted the lower number.

So how does a team like Kentucky score 103 points and lose? Simple, you let the other team score at will. Kentucky has long been known as a defensive team - but not on Friday night.

So what about the church? How can we score so many points and still lose? Here's what I mean. We can see a lot of folks come to Christ and yet not see life change. I've been talking about this in the Seek-Grow-Serve-Love series. If you have not been listening check it out.

This weekend I will be talking about love and it's interesting that Paul says some pretty strong things about this in 1 Corinthians 13. Sounds a whole lot like the Kentucky team - they scored big but still lost.

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
1 Cor 13:1-3 (NIV)

Let's make sure we get this "love" thing right - we don't want to score a ton and still lose the game!

Weekend Update

2008-11-17T12:05:00.002-05:00

Wow - what a great weekend! Busy but great!

The marriage retreat was just awesome. 37 couples took time from their busy schedules to work on their marriage. GREAT JOB GANG! Ed and Jera Laurel are amazing - they led the retreat and man they hit it out of the park. I think everyone had a great time - I know I did.

Saturday night and Sunday we had some awesome services. Damon and Jason (along with Brandon and Nell Anne) did a great acoustic set that really set the tone for people to hear God's word. I really felt like the sermon on Serving was spot on. I generally just aim at myself and man did I get beat up. Sometimes I don't do well with this serving thing. But studying again the servanthood of Jesus was awesome.

No - I did not get to go after Bambi's daddy - I did however get a nice nap and then watched some football.

Keep the church in prayer this week. We have two more "Grow Pastor" candidates coming in and hope to be able to make an offer after this weekend. I can't wait! God is just rocking this place right now!

Busy Weekend!

2008-11-14T14:36:00.005-05:00

Wow - I have a busy schedule this weekend - but it's all good!

Friday night and Sat (till early afternoon) - Melody and I will be joining a bunch of other couples from HCC for a Marriage Retreat. Why do they call it a retreat? I want my marriage to advance - oh well - I'll save that for another day.

The weekend's message is about Jesus being a Servant - We'll be looking at Jesus washing the feet of a bunch of MEAT HEADS! Take some time and read John 13:1-17. Chew on it, let it speak to you. And ask yourself the question - if Jesus did this for the disciples - how am I to apply that to my life?

Sunday afternoon I'll probably go try to shoot Bambi's daddy - OK - I'll admit I'm a bit of a caveman - but I love deer and it's time to put the meat on the table.

I hope to see you this weekend - if not have a great one!

Oh, Melody is excited that it might snow! I love her - but she's a little crazy!

I love my blackberry!

2008-11-13T16:23:00.004-05:00

I've been learning how to use my blackberry phone. Man it's cool. I've been texting folks, sending e-mails to let folks know my number will be changing. Getting e-mails while away from the computer is the bomb! And the best part - not one single dropped call yet. Even driving by the golf course or creek!

And yes, Randy and Jon (you know who you are!) I'm even thinking of the spiritual application in it.

Why is it that we as people of the 21st century want to be connected 24/7 to everybody - but don't have the same passion to be connected to God 24/7? And why is it that so many times we seem to have "dropped calls" when it comes to our connection with God... HINT: THE PROBLEM IS NOT ON GOD'S END!

There - chew on that for a while - I have been.

A new number - uggghhh

2008-11-12T15:34:00.003-05:00

Here's a pic of my new phone - it's a cool Blackberry Curve.

Now here's the deal - I bit the bullet and got a "family plan" for our cell phones. I've been dodging it for some time. Long story short - I wound up having to get a new number - DON'T ASK! Anyway - now I have to make contact with hundreds of people and tell them my old numbers will no longer work.

For those interested here is my new number - 502-316-1851 - and now I can read texts w/out having to pay 20 cents each time.

And then I got to thinking about this in spiritual terms. We are doing this series about discipleship and it dawned on me - when it comes to me being like Christ - what "numbers" in my life need to be changing as well?

Maybe there are some folks in my life that don't need to be "in my five" anymore. People that have too much negative influence on me.

Maybe there are some others that need to be added. Some people that God wants me to be an influence on.

And of course I need to have God on speed dial - I need to spend tons of time talking with Him - and the cool thing is that there are no "roaming charges"!

In the Christian life there are times when I need to be changing my number - what about you?

Guest Blog - Nell Anne Gossett

2008-11-10T15:43:00.003-05:00

Guest Blogger - Nell Anne Gossett

A few days ago I walked into Southside Elementary to pick up my granddaughter from school. Since it was a lovely fall day and I was early, I sat outside on one of the benches.

A group of young children walked out of the school toward the flagpole. They were discussing which one of them was going to get to lower the flag and who would fold it. It was obvious that the daily job of caring for the American Flag was a privilege they had earned.

As they began, a grandfather walked up with a preschooler perched on his shoulders. The little one said, "Hey Pa Pa, Look!" The grandfather took the little guy off his shoulders and began a simple explanation about taking care of the American Flag and it's importance.

While the children worked on their task, the grandfather stood at attention and placed his hand over his heart. After studying hi papa for a few moments, and trying to decide which hand to place over his chest, the little boy did too. As the school children finished, the grandfather said, "Boys, you did a fine job." Pointing to the top of the flagpole, he said, "You know, the top of the flag pole is called a truck. How about that?" He then picked up his grandchild, placed him on his shoulders and went on into the school.

For all the teacher, parents, and Papa's who teach and reinforce the importance of patriotism and respect ... thank you. For all the veterans who gave us those freedoms thank you! God bless America.

What now?

2008-11-05T08:50:00.005-05:00

Last night history was made in America and a lot of it was really good news.

As a country we have gone from the days where a black man had to sit in the back of the bus to a African American sitting at the most powerful desk in America (maybe the world).

We have elected our 44th president - and that alone is a blessing.

We have once again seen the democratic process work - whether we agree or disagree with the results we need to be grateful for the system.

We have reason to praise the Lord. I know some reading this will be "down in the dumps" today. But I have to ask why? Do we believe that our going into a private booth and writing down a name is really all this is about? Have we forgotten that it is God Himself who set's leaders in place?

(Rom 13:1 NIV) Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

This is not to say we don't challenge them if we feel they are wrong. And it may call for times of social injustice when the rule contradicts God's law. But it is clear in Scripture that God has a hand in such matters.

And make no mistake about this... Barack Obama is our President elect because God has ordained it.

So what do we need to do now?

Pray. Pray for him and his family. Pray for the newly elected officials that will join in him governing this great country. Pray for this country - we have some serious issues. Pray that God will use this new administration to bring this nation back to Himself. It may be through revival or tribulation. Pray that God be glorified.

A Proud Dad!

2008-11-04T14:13:00.004-05:00

Today is a great day in America. It is a day we get to exercise our right to freely choose who will serve for the next four years as our President.

But for me it's a great day for another reason. It is the first time my son Jon was old enough to participate in the Presidential election. He is 21 and while he has voted in the past - he was not old enough in 04 to vote for this office.

I'm proud of you son!

GO VOTE!

2008-11-03T23:18:00.002-05:00

Warning - PG 13.

2008-11-01T10:24:00.005-04:00

OK - the title may be a little bit scary - so here's the deal - I'm going to give some straight talk and use some straight language - also keep in mind I deal with a lot of men one on one ... so for the ladies reading this - please do not be offended. If you are squeamish - just don't read this one.

In our culture we have a lot of people who want to "live off the government tit". Hey - I warned you. But you understand exactly what that phrase means. It speaks to the "entitlement" attitude that is pervasive in our culture. If I get hurt in an accident - I deserve to be a millionaire. If there is some handout - I deserve to be at the head of the line. I deserve to own a home - even if I can't really afford it. The list goes on.

But sadly - this mentality carries over to the church. I'll come to your church if you meet my needs. I'll keep coming until a new church offers some new and exciting program - so you better treat me right. I'll give my money if I like the music. I'll serve if it's cool and does not make me uncomfortable.

In our men's breakfast this morning someone said, "Too many People are trying to live off Dean's tit." OK - that's not a picture you ever wanted to have! But do you understand what it means? Sure you do - there are many, many people that are satisfied to get their spiritual food from me and me alone.

But there are some problems with that.

#1 It's simply not enough - I could never give you enough "milk" to sustain your spiritual life.

#2 It's not balanced - the weekend services are hard. I have the responsibility of giving salty food to the seeker so they get a thirst for God. I give milk to the infant Christian so they can mature, and I want to give some meat to the more mature Christ followers to help them grow stronger. It is very seldom (if ever) that all three can be done in any one weekend.

#3 The biggest problem is that it's just not Biblical. As believers we are called to be self-feeders. We are all called to not only feed ourselves but feed others.

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Tim 2:15 (KJV)

All of us as taxpayers are tired of so many people wanting to "live off the government tit".... It's time we as believers get past "living off the preacher's tit" as well.

It's time to take off the bib and put on an apron!

The Start of Something Big!

2008-10-31T10:01:00.004-04:00

Hey all - keep the elders, me, and the church in special prayer this week and for the next few weeks. Dan and I have been conducting phone interviews this week with prospective "Grow Pastors". This is a new position that we will be filling very soon. This will be a part of the whole - "Seek-Grow-Serve-Love" system.

For those that may not know - Seek-Grow-Love-Serve is our new purpose statement. We feel strongly that it is our job to help every person we come in contact with to take one step closer in their walk with Jesus. I will be preaching for the next four weeks on this topic. So make sure you are there or catch it on our web site.

Anyway - we have interviewed nine and have the last three today. Our plan is to whittle this down to three or four and then have a second round of interviews. And man, I AM PUMPED! The candidates that we are talking with are outstanding. I MEAN AMAZINGLY OUTSTANDING. Our challenge will not be to pick a good one. It will be to pick the right one from among so many phenomenal choices.

Pray that God makes this clear. This is a huge turning point for our church.

At least somebody is making money!

2008-10-30T09:15:00.002-04:00

I read Yahoo news every day (several times on some days). I watch the morning and evening news. Sometimes in my office I have Fox news in the background. I'm not sure this is a good thing but it does help keep me current. It also is infuriating sometimes - LIKE TODAY!

In the news today Exxon-Mobile's profits were posted for the 3rd quarter. Poor souls are struggling right now. Their profits for the last quarter were a mere 14.83 Billion Dollars. This is what that looks like - $14,830,000,000.00.

It is also noted that not only is this yet another record for the oil company - but a record for any US Company ever! The article shared how the profit was driven by the higher crude prices and the fact they were given a pass on much of the fine they were supposed to pay for the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

So lets all say a big hooray for these folks... They hit the mother load. And I'm so glad I could help every time I filled my tank. And I sure hope they don't suffer too much with the falling price of crude.

CAN SOMEBODY SAY THERE'S SOME GOUGING GOING ON!

OK - I have to stop now... my fingers are wanting me to type some bad words and I have to bandage my hand - I hurt it when I punched the screen on my computer!

UUUUGGGGGHHHHH!

Challenge Flag

2008-10-29T08:02:00.002-04:00

Challenge Flag - Guest Blog from Brett Oliver

I love college football. For me a fall afternoon or evening tailgating with friends and family followed by cheering on the Wildcats is what a Saturday was made for.

I got to thinking about the challenge flag in football. You know, the flag a head coach can throw when he wants to challenge the call made on the field. The officials are still in charge of the game, but they aren't perfect and sometimes video replay shows a mistake. The officials recognize that part of the game and rules and allow the coaches to request this review (sometimes "requested" more aggressively and loudly than others!) and challenge their decision.

It got me thinking - who do I have that I allow to throw a challenge flag on me? Who in my life has permission to question a decision or behavior that might prove wrong or not Christ-like? Like the challenge flag, the opportunities for a brother or sister in Christ to challenge me need to be limited. We've all experienced the friend who tells us everything we're doing wrong and never encourages us - we turn a deaf ear to them - even if they sometimes speak the truth. We need those in our life that understand the balance between challenge / rebuke and encouragement.

the challenge flag reminds me that it needs to be done respectfully. The flag may be thrown toward the official in emotion. But the review process is orderly and respected. When we challenge someone is our response orderly and respectful? I need those in my life with the challenge flag and they need the permission to throw them on me.

I encourage each of you to allow those challenge flags to be thrown in your life.

Proverbs 27:17 - "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend."

We in the body of Christ need each other to keep us on track. Who in your life has the permission to throw the challenge flag? Be sure and let them know soon.

Brett Oliver

Just so you know - this is not me!

2008-10-28T12:43:00.002-04:00

This was just too funny....

What a weekend!

2008-10-27T17:39:00.004-04:00

Normally when I talk about the weekend I'm talking about what went on at Harmony Christian Church and I guess I am now in some fashion.

The weekend started on Friday night with a Volunteer Appreciation Banquet - wow - what a great time to celebrate with a bunch of folks that make HCC such a great place...

Then Saturday and Sunday 21 of us went on our first every men's golf trip. We went to Dale Hollow State Resort and had a ball. I can honestly say it was the most beautiful golf course I have ever seen. I can also say it kicked my butt! I did not know any one person could lose that many golf balls!

The highlight for me was hiking Sunday morning to a cave that Dave Parrish had found several years ago. We went up there before we played on Sunday and had church in the mouth of it with an incredible view of a ravine. It was breathtaking. Note to self -don't eat so many biscuits before hiking in the hills!

We're already talking about doing this again next year... I can't wait....

What I hate about E-mail.

2008-10-22T16:55:00.004-04:00

OK - here's the promised 2nd part... please feel free to add your comments as well.... This is what I hate about E-Mail.

I hate Spam - uggghhhh!

I hate Forwards - (you know the one's you have to open three pages or more to get the message - guess what - after one page I just hit delete... and for some people - I hit delete immediately.

I hate it when people I don't even know take shots at me or the church via an e-mail with an address that does not let me know who they are.... I don't mind people's remarks (good or bad) - but they need to at least sign their name!

Did I mention I hate SPAM!

I hate it when people don't look at the distribution list and send me stuff that I already have because I was on the same list!

I hate to change my e-mail address... what a pain!

I hate it when others change their e-mail address... not quite as bad - but still a pain.

OK - let's hear your comments too.

What I love about E-Mail

2008-10-21T10:24:00.002-04:00

This is going to be a two-part post. The first part is "What I love about E-Mail" - the next part will be "What I hate about E-mail". So here goes - and this is not an exhaustive list - but it would be great to hear your additions to the list....

I love how it as a very effective way of communication.

I love to get pics of new borns (even though they aren't as cute as my grand daugher)

I love to get sermon ideas.

I love to get pics of big fish and monster bucks (deer)

I love to not have to be on the phone with long winded people (at least some long winded people).

I love to send little notes to my wife and get them back too!

I love a good joke.

I love how it eliminates some meetings.

I love of how it can be used for evangelism and discipleship.

OK - add to the list!

40 resumes and counting!

2008-10-20T23:43:00.003-04:00

Wow - some of you know this and for some it's news - but we are in the process of hiring a "grow pastor" (minister of discipleship). And boy am I excited about it. Right now we have 40 resumes and expect more to come in the next couple of days.

So here's the deal - PRAY! And PRAY SOME MORE!

We have received some unbelievable resumes and I mean that in a really good way. Now the hard work begins. Dan and I will whittle the list down to 10 (give or take) and then do a bunch of phone interviews. At that time we'll hopefully be able to narrow it down to 2 or 3. Then more interviews with more folks being involved. And then we will be able to issue an invitation for someone to join our staff.

It is exciting, challenging, and a bit overwhelming. But it is amazing to see the caliber of individuals God is bringing to us. But we don't want a good one - we want the best one - and that's the one God has picked out already.

So like I said, PRAY, and then PRAY SOME MORE!

What will we trust?

2008-10-18T14:25:00.005-04:00

It's no secret that our economy is in a mess right now. With a 700 Billion dollar bail out, and the stock market riding a roller coaster of up and down swings. I checked into my retirement account the other day and found out I've lost over 35% of it.

And I've had a number of people tell me how worried they are. But should they be? I don't think so. Consider the following verses.

Did I set my heart on making big money or worship at the bank? Did I boast about my wealth, show off because I was well off? Was I ever so awed by the sun's brilliance and moved by the moon's beauty that I let myself be seduced by them and worship them on the sly? If so, I would have deserved the worst of punishments, for I would be betraying God Himself. (Job 31:24-28, Message)

Clearly we get it that worshiping the sun or moon is idolatry - but Job puts trusting in our bank accounts right there with it.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33, KJV)

The context of this passage is about worrying about what we will eat, what we will wear, and where we will live. And Jesus makes it clear - He's got us covered - no matter what happens on Wall Street!

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. (Psalm 20:7, NIV)

Money is power in today's world, as much as horses and chariots were in David's day... so what are we trusting in?

Some times your heart just aches.

2008-10-13T13:06:00.002-04:00

The picture I've posted is of Tim Schindler and his newly adopted daughter - as a matter of fact they are still in China getting her - if you want some interesting reading - check out his wife's blog - it's amazing as she chronicles their journey.

But that's not the prayer request. Actually I have a couple. We just got back from Chicago and while we were there we visited with my wife's parents who live a couple hours west of there. Their health is not good and every time we go we have the painful reminder that it could be our last visit with either one of them.

On top of that Melody's dearest friend had a heart attack a few weeks back and it doesn't look good. Her heart is only functioning about 20%. Her husband is not much better with his own health. They have two boys - one 16 and one 12. They have asked us to be their God Parents and take them as our own if something were to happen.

It is a HUGE responsibility to accept such a challenge and we are really praying about it. But as I have been reading Tim's blog - I feel a tug to step up on this request. But it's hard - very hard.

And I ache for the pain my wife is going through right now. Please keep her in your prayers - me too.

Heading to the Windy City

2008-10-08T16:02:00.004-04:00

It seems like yesterday I was 18 years old and driving into Chicago for the first time. I was an incoming Freshman at Moody Bible Institute (MBI). A lot happened in my life there. I met some life long friends on the 3rd floor of Culbertson Hall. I gained an incredible love of learning. I got to experience some of the great culture and cuisine of Chicago. And I met the most wonderful young woman in the world. And while I can't really call her young any more - for 30 years she has been by my side.

Well tomorrow (Thursday) we are making the trip again. We're taking Jon to check out MBI. He's considering attending there too. We will get there early enough to check out some of the cuisine - Gino's here we come! And I might even catch a late night #1. A #1 is a hamburger, fries and shake from this place called "Mr G's". It's right down the street from Moody and the reason I went from 175 to 210 pounds in just two years. My mouth is watering right now.

Please keep us in prayer as we travel and pray with Jon about his college selection. This is a big deal. Also because I will be away from my computer for a few days, I will not be blogging. I will give an update when I get back.

Guilty by association

2008-10-07T15:10:00.002-04:00

Guilty by association - just doesn't sound good does it. In our political process we hear about Obama's association with Bill Ayers, and we hear about McCain's past ties with the Charles Keating. And yes I think it matters. But what about our associations? Are we "guilty by association too"?

In the last two sermons I talked about how important our friends are. We asked the questions: Who are they? Who's are they? Where are they taking us? I have been guilty by association. I have hung around the wrong people at times. Listened to the wrong advice. Made the wrong choices - and many times it was because I was with the wrong people.

But I am glad to say I am "guilty by association" with a really great bunch of folks at Harmony. We are in the process of doing staff evaluations. And having looked at them initially I am just ecstatic. We are so blessed with a great staff. A REALLY GREAT STAFF!

And as we are taking resumes right now for yet another staff person it's easy to see that others want to be "guilty by association" with them too.

You and I are going to have associations - let's make sure that when we are "guilty by association" - that it's a good thing not a bad thing.

My friend David

2008-10-06T14:27:00.004-04:00

Many of you know my friend David Parrish - he really is a great guy. When we moved to G-town waiting for our house to be finished he let us live in his double-wide trailer out at Parrish Lakes. And over the years he has helped me with a lot of things.

When I finished John's room in the basement he checked my wiring job to make sure I didn't burn down the house. He's helped me tons with my woodworking skills and loaned me some really nice tools from time to time. He's been a consistent golf coach over the last 11 years and seen my game improve dramatically. He's helped me over the years develop the golf league into a wonderful outreach. I've even got to fish with him once or twice at Victoria Estates (although his wife is a lot better than he is).

Over the years I have grown to love Dave and Gloria a lot. We have a kindred spirit. And while we don't go out as couples as much as I'd like we have always enjoyed our time together.

Well today Dave showed me something else. Something I'd only seen on TV - Today Dave got a hole-in-one on the 10th hole at Ducker's Lake. It was amazing and I was so glad I got to share that moment with him - and now with you.

But as exciting as that is... I have seen Dave and Gloria pour their lives into those of hurting people. You see Dave and Gloria met in a divorce recovery class, they fell in love and married. Now together they are taking what they have learned and sharing it with others.

David may have gotten his first hole-in-one today - but he's using his life to help make broken people "whole" again. And that's a much better accomplishment.

God bless you my friend.

Let's try this again.

2008-10-04T23:28:00.002-04:00

If you have not read my previous post - read it now... What can the church learn from the political campaigns?

Now let me seed this discussion a bit...

In a political campaign - the candidate knows what they want to accomplish.... and while the church claims to... do they really? A clear vision is critical.

In a political campaign they continually share the vision - elect so-and-so. The church struggles because many don't really know what the vision really is.

In a political campaign - there may be differences in the primary - but once they get past the convention everyone is on the same page. Consider how Joe Biden relentlessly attacked Barack Obama before and now is his VP (and on the same page)... We in the church will have differences of opinion - but must pull together to get the "real job" done.

Now it's your turn. What can we learn from this process?

2008-10-03T12:03:00.003-04:00

So here's the deal - I borrowed this idea from the guys over at swerve - but it's good stuff...

Given the non stop coverage of the presidential race and to be honest the most interesting race between two VP candidates I can ever remember they posed a very interesting question. And I want to pose it here...

What can the church learn from the political campaigns?

And here's the ground rules. I'm not interested in who you are supporting, or about who you would really like to see win or lose. I'm interested in the process. Here's why. Each election dollars are spent, volunteers are mobilized, causes are promoted, decisions are made. So please step up and give your thoughts... again - NO PROMOTING ANYONE! Just toss around some ideas of how from this process we could learn some things that might work in the church.

Think about it... the politicians do all this because they feel it is effective in getting people to support their cause. We certainly have a greater cause so what could we be doing better or not at all?

I can't wait to read your comments.

What's inside?

2008-10-02T14:38:00.003-04:00

Did you know that I'm going to be a grandpa again? OK - I know you did - but I just love saying it! And here is the latest pic... Isn't she adorable? Clearly SHE has her grandpa's good looks!

An ultrasound is an incredible thing.... an ultrasound uses sound waves to paint a picture. It can show stuff on the inside without having to actually go inside to see it. Pretty technical explanation right?

With an ultrasound (or sonogram) the sex of baby can be determined and even some birth defects can be found in early stages... it's truly an amazing thing.

But what if we could have a spiritual ultrasound? What would it show about us? Oh sure we all look a certain way on the outside - but what are we really like on the inside? Well God's word tells us that while other people can only see the outside (the part we let them see)... God Himself looks at the heart (the inside).

Now I can portray a certain image to you - but is that really the truth? You can act a certain way around church folks - but what are you really like at work or home? We could all benefit from a "spiritual ultrasound". And God has given us one. When we read His word and listen to His spirit - it reveals the truth about each of us. And while it will not determine the sex of a fetus - it will show some defects within each of us. And yes we all have them.

But it is only then that we can deal with them. It's when we really know the "guts" of the issue that we can be honest and let God help us work on them.

So let me challenge each of you to let God give you a sonogram. I'll do the same.

Are we making the wrong people rich?

2008-09-30T12:19:00.003-04:00

No doubt you have been watching to see what will happen on Capital Hill and on Wall Street. The thought that a bunch of Wall Street rich dudes will get bailed out is really ticking a lot of folks off - including me. But of course this got me thinking...

Who are we making rich? Who are you making rich? Who in my life am I making rich? And I'm not talking about money.

We each have something to offer. You could call it the currency of life. It might be money, it might be time, it might be talents. And every day we spend some of those commodities somewhere. So in a sense we are taking what is ours to invest and putting it somewhere... So where are we putting it. Who is getting our best and becoming richer for it? Who are we making rich?

Am I investing time with my kids or someone else?

Am I spending more on my wife than on me?

Am I using my talents to bring people to Jesus or just to make me look good?

Am I giving any time to God?

Am I faithful in being generous?

Am I using my God given talents for God's glory?

Who are you making rich?

And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 2 Cor 8:1-2 (NIV)

Weekend Update

2008-09-28T20:27:00.006-04:00

What a great weekend!

Great weekend at church - three baptisms and a couple of folks made HCC their home church... It was awesome seeing folks come forward for prayer. And my neighbor visited - she just recently lost her husband and it was awesome seeing folks rally around her.

And what about Blaine - man he did an awesome job sharing the work being done in Uganda. I am so proud of our folks for the love they have for others.... Great job guys and Great job God!

Tim and Amy Schindler visited on Sat night - Tim is the youth minister at G-town baptist - keep them in prayer - they leave a week from Thursday for China. They are adoping a beautiful little girl.

Also Frank and Brenda Howell were with us at the 10:45. They are former members who moved away about 7 years ago. They live in Jeffersonville IN - it was great showing them the building and catching up.

Oh yea, another cool thing happened. A young man stopped by about 8:00 from Crossroads - it seems their drummer forgot his sticks and they needed to borrow some. Keep crossroads in your prayers - this is a great work and lives in G-town will be touched for eternity. Glad we could help.

On another front - Vols lose again! USC gets spanked! Cards tank again! And what about those Gators! Oh yea, UK goes 4-0 - still not in the top 25 but getting closer (both polls have them ranked at 28).

Let me say it again - GO SEE FIREPROOF!

Fireproof - AWESOME!

2008-09-27T12:10:00.003-04:00

Wow! And that doesn't even touch it. My wife and I went to see Fireproof last night. This is an absolute must see for every couple. I mean a MUST SEE!

The story is about a fireman (Kirk Cameron) who is a hero at work - but losing his marriage. When his wife tells him she's through he finally get's it. He goes through a 40 day exercise to win her back. At the beginning he just goes through the motions, but eventually he realizes that he cannot do this alone. He needs to let God do it.

There are so many scenes I have seen played out. She is surrounded by friends who encourage her to bail. She is courted by a nice guy who "gets her". He let's his anger almost derail the process.

I cried. I cried a lot. Some of the tears were caused by the painful memories of seeing friends marriages crash and burn before my eyes. But most of them were tears of sadness for the times the story was about me. I was that guy at one time. I was the guy "saving the world" but neglecting my wife. I am in tears now as I think of how my wife stayed the course when I gave her every reason to bail.

The key line is "You never leave your partner behind, especially in a fire".

So many times I've seen it... and it's heart breaking.

See the movie, and don't see it alone. Take people with you. This will be the catalyst for saving marriages. Maybe yours.

Here's the link again to the movie.

Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is useless. Prov 127:1 (NLT)