Lori and I got to go see a movie on Friday. Lori's folks offered to watch our boys, so we went to a $1.50 movie and dinner (Applebee's).
There are several movies I have been wanting to see, Ray being one of them.
I found the movie to be completely depressing. From his childhood tragedies to being abused and being taken advantage of and being lied to, to him abusing and taking advantage and lying to others. Add on top of that heroin addiction and not being there for his wife and kids.
It was depressing because such a musical genius has such a depressing life and caused pain and agony to others to get to where he ended up.
Some bright spots included him standing up to segregation in Georgia and him finally kicking his debilitating heroin addiction but his freedom from heroin didn't come till the end of the film (the film ends in the mid to late 1970s).
It would have been nice to see his life post-heroin. Did he become more dedicated to his family? Or did the extra-martial affairs continue? Did he ever spend quality time with his kids?
Jamie Foxx did a good job of portraying Charles. However, the Charles I remember seeing later in his life seemed to have more personality ... more life. But maybe that was the older post-heroin Charles. Or maybe the dark movie made me dislike the big screen Charles and want the cheery happy Ray Charles I recall seeing performing on the small screen.
Jan 30, 2005
Jan 27, 2005
God Forgives. VISA Does Not -Part 1 - By Drew Dyck
In the movies reckless addictions lead to spectacular, climactic explosions: a brutal accident, a fistfight, a dramatic confrontation. So I was a little surprised when my addiction ended quietly; just me holding a steaming chilidog and a super Big Gulp while a line of people behind me shuffled restlessly.
“I’m sorry,” whispered the teen-ager behind the counter, shaking her head, “this isn’t going through.” I squinted and feigned confusion. She raised her voice. “Your credit card isn’t working.” My faced flushed. I smiled weakly at the onlookers, surrendered my chilidog and slinked out the door.
Skulking across the parking lot, a scene flashed before my mind’s eye like a fuzzy dream bubble in a soap opera. The scene was from a year before. The location was the bank near my college. After opening a checking account the lady asked me nonchalantly, “Would you like a Visa with that?” It was like she was offering me fries with my burger or ice cream with my cake. It was so casual. I didn’t even think to decline.
It was my first day of college. I had just registered for the fall term classes, moved into a room on campus and waved goodbye to my parents. My world was changing so rapidly that I hardly noticed when the little plastic creature slipped into my wallet.
At first having the card was pure bliss: fully financed trips to the mall, late-night junk food runs. “Who wants pizza? I’ve got it covered,” I’d boast. I’d whip the card out of my pocket like a gunslinger drawing his weapon. Initially the minimum monthly payment was negligible so I kept trucking. And once I reached my first limit I was rewarded with a new goal!
I had met with a new breed of pleasure. I was experiencing the joy of buying without the pain of spending. I had always hated passing bright, crisp bills into the hand of a stranger. I would imagine the faces on the bills frowning up at me as they slid across the cashier’s counter. “Bye, bye, poorer master.”
But this was just plastic! Of course I wasn’t quite dumb enough to believe I wasn’t being charged. Alas it turns out that the mind is no match for the senses, because I kept going.
After my public humiliation at the convenience store, I received the fateful statement; the one telling me I’d gone several hundred dollars beyond my limit. Suddenly they were demanding the minimum payment plus the overage. The introductory 9% A.P.R. disappeared like a toupee in a windstorm. In its place was by a blistering 21%. The honeymoon was over.
It was a tough lesson for a freshman, one that stretched out for three years as I struggled to pay down the balance. But I learned from it. Now a hard-bitten grad student I know better. The financial perils of student life led me to take extreme measures to avoid unnecessary debt. My two credit cards (with low balances and interest rates) are suspended in a massive block of ice and buried deep in the freezer. The addiction is not dead. I still feel their pull. Occasionally I peak in on them. They seem to call to me from their icy graves, like cryogenically frozen bodies yearning for a second life. “I’m sorry,” I mouth tenderly through the frigid vapors. “It’s not you. It’s me.” I show new credit applications absolutely zero compassion. They are automatically consigned to the shredder.
My credit card addiction got the better of me. But I’m not alone. More than ever young people are burdened with debt. In it’s recent report, “Generation Broke: The Growth of Debt Among Young Americans,” Demos, a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization found that among 18-24 year olds:
the average credit card debt load rose 104 percent from 1992 to 2001; compared to only 55 percent among other age groups.
71 percent make only the minimum payment, carrying their balances over every month.
a quarter of every dollar earned is spent on debt payments.
(contined next blog...)
“I’m sorry,” whispered the teen-ager behind the counter, shaking her head, “this isn’t going through.” I squinted and feigned confusion. She raised her voice. “Your credit card isn’t working.” My faced flushed. I smiled weakly at the onlookers, surrendered my chilidog and slinked out the door.
Skulking across the parking lot, a scene flashed before my mind’s eye like a fuzzy dream bubble in a soap opera. The scene was from a year before. The location was the bank near my college. After opening a checking account the lady asked me nonchalantly, “Would you like a Visa with that?” It was like she was offering me fries with my burger or ice cream with my cake. It was so casual. I didn’t even think to decline.
It was my first day of college. I had just registered for the fall term classes, moved into a room on campus and waved goodbye to my parents. My world was changing so rapidly that I hardly noticed when the little plastic creature slipped into my wallet.
At first having the card was pure bliss: fully financed trips to the mall, late-night junk food runs. “Who wants pizza? I’ve got it covered,” I’d boast. I’d whip the card out of my pocket like a gunslinger drawing his weapon. Initially the minimum monthly payment was negligible so I kept trucking. And once I reached my first limit I was rewarded with a new goal!
I had met with a new breed of pleasure. I was experiencing the joy of buying without the pain of spending. I had always hated passing bright, crisp bills into the hand of a stranger. I would imagine the faces on the bills frowning up at me as they slid across the cashier’s counter. “Bye, bye, poorer master.”
But this was just plastic! Of course I wasn’t quite dumb enough to believe I wasn’t being charged. Alas it turns out that the mind is no match for the senses, because I kept going.
After my public humiliation at the convenience store, I received the fateful statement; the one telling me I’d gone several hundred dollars beyond my limit. Suddenly they were demanding the minimum payment plus the overage. The introductory 9% A.P.R. disappeared like a toupee in a windstorm. In its place was by a blistering 21%. The honeymoon was over.
It was a tough lesson for a freshman, one that stretched out for three years as I struggled to pay down the balance. But I learned from it. Now a hard-bitten grad student I know better. The financial perils of student life led me to take extreme measures to avoid unnecessary debt. My two credit cards (with low balances and interest rates) are suspended in a massive block of ice and buried deep in the freezer. The addiction is not dead. I still feel their pull. Occasionally I peak in on them. They seem to call to me from their icy graves, like cryogenically frozen bodies yearning for a second life. “I’m sorry,” I mouth tenderly through the frigid vapors. “It’s not you. It’s me.” I show new credit applications absolutely zero compassion. They are automatically consigned to the shredder.
My credit card addiction got the better of me. But I’m not alone. More than ever young people are burdened with debt. In it’s recent report, “Generation Broke: The Growth of Debt Among Young Americans,” Demos, a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization found that among 18-24 year olds:
the average credit card debt load rose 104 percent from 1992 to 2001; compared to only 55 percent among other age groups.
71 percent make only the minimum payment, carrying their balances over every month.
a quarter of every dollar earned is spent on debt payments.
(contined next blog...)
God Forgives. VISA Does Not -PART 2 By Drew Dyck
Why are 20-somethings — especially college students — so prone to debt? Tight budgets make credit cards tempting; they also make paying them off difficult. Add to that skyrocketing tuition costs, increased cost of living and corporations who aggressively peddle credit cards on campuses and you’ve got lots of stories like mine.
Thankfully, we’re not without help. There are lots of resources to help avoid or escape financial trouble. Here are just a few:
“Controlling the Credit Card Beast,” by Todd Temple.
“Self-control key to managing credit card debt in college,” by Sandra Block.
Credit and Debt Advice from youngmoney.com.
Advice for students from smartmoney.com.
Yet for many, runaway debt is about more than fiscal ineptitude; the problem often stems from an inability to curb excessive spending.
Of course popular culture only fuels the spending impulse. Flip through the channels, leaf through a magazine or glance at a billboard. The message is the same: Consuming products (often expensive and superfluous) will make you happy.
But like most messages the culture sends, this one turns out to be a lie. Any happiness from consumerism is fleeting at best. The result of rampant spending looks nothing like the blissful depictions offered by advertisers. The real story is considerably less cheery. It involves angry creditors, harassing phone calls, repossessions, eviction notices and long hours at work. That’s the true picture of undisciplined spending – the ugly enslavement of debt.
Fortunately the Bible provides a very different model of money management. And thankfully I tuned into it before debt ran away with me. It says our money doesn’t belong to us; it belongs to God. He merely entrusts us as stewards and expects us to conduct our financial affairs with that in mind. And (just a hunch) I don’t think that involves spending money we don’t have on things we don’t need. I guess God cares about small things – even if they’re only three inches long and a millimeter thick. He cares about how we use them because He loves us. He wants us to be free from consumerism and debt so we’re free to live for Him.
I wouldn’t recommend running up credit card debt to learn lessons (there are less painful ways to learn), but my experience did teach me a couple valuable things:
First, God forgives. Visa does not.
No matter what stupid things we do, God stands ready to forgive, to return our balance to zero — even when we’ve treated the things that are really His as though they are ours.
VISA has no such concept of mercy. I know they seem nice in the commercials, but they’re not. They didn’t care one iota about my deep contrition and sincere repentance. In fact their customer service reps found my confession and pleas for mercy “strange and inappropriate.” (Sigh) I guess some people just don’t understand grace.
Copyright © 2005 Drew Dyck. All rights reserved. International copyright secured.
Thankfully, we’re not without help. There are lots of resources to help avoid or escape financial trouble. Here are just a few:
“Controlling the Credit Card Beast,” by Todd Temple.
“Self-control key to managing credit card debt in college,” by Sandra Block.
Credit and Debt Advice from youngmoney.com.
Advice for students from smartmoney.com.
Yet for many, runaway debt is about more than fiscal ineptitude; the problem often stems from an inability to curb excessive spending.
Of course popular culture only fuels the spending impulse. Flip through the channels, leaf through a magazine or glance at a billboard. The message is the same: Consuming products (often expensive and superfluous) will make you happy.
But like most messages the culture sends, this one turns out to be a lie. Any happiness from consumerism is fleeting at best. The result of rampant spending looks nothing like the blissful depictions offered by advertisers. The real story is considerably less cheery. It involves angry creditors, harassing phone calls, repossessions, eviction notices and long hours at work. That’s the true picture of undisciplined spending – the ugly enslavement of debt.
Fortunately the Bible provides a very different model of money management. And thankfully I tuned into it before debt ran away with me. It says our money doesn’t belong to us; it belongs to God. He merely entrusts us as stewards and expects us to conduct our financial affairs with that in mind. And (just a hunch) I don’t think that involves spending money we don’t have on things we don’t need. I guess God cares about small things – even if they’re only three inches long and a millimeter thick. He cares about how we use them because He loves us. He wants us to be free from consumerism and debt so we’re free to live for Him.
I wouldn’t recommend running up credit card debt to learn lessons (there are less painful ways to learn), but my experience did teach me a couple valuable things:
First, God forgives. Visa does not.
No matter what stupid things we do, God stands ready to forgive, to return our balance to zero — even when we’ve treated the things that are really His as though they are ours.
VISA has no such concept of mercy. I know they seem nice in the commercials, but they’re not. They didn’t care one iota about my deep contrition and sincere repentance. In fact their customer service reps found my confession and pleas for mercy “strange and inappropriate.” (Sigh) I guess some people just don’t understand grace.
Copyright © 2005 Drew Dyck. All rights reserved. International copyright secured.
Jan 26, 2005
Jan 18, 2005
NYLC REPORT
The following blogs are my report from the National Youth Leaders Conference 2005. It is wordy and some of it is still in note form (incomplete sentances). If you want any clarification on any of the notes just let me know.
CIY's National Youth Leaders Convention - Joplin, MO Sunday-Monday night
I had a great time in Joplin this year, every year CIY does a great job of putting together a conference that is refreshing and rewarding and challenging. The speakers and seminar leaders did a great job of passing on information and encouraging the youth workers assembled. There were just over 300 workers this year, which makes one wonder why more don’t make the trip. CIY is certainly trying to figure that out, I heard that if they did not have more than 300 they would not be doing the conference in 2006.
For this report I am going to go day by day through the highlights of the convention.
On the weekends I stayed with Larry, Heather, and Klarissa Osborn and Joe Presler (and the first weekend Aaron Earlywine and Jeff Nichols) at Greg and Susan Murdock’s home. They have 6 kids who are all home schooled. Very nice family with a large house (4000 sq ft). Greg is CEO of College Press Publishing.
During the week I roomed with Aaron, Jeff, Ben Smith, and Bill Krause. I shared a car with Aaron and Jeff.
Sunday we went to College Heights Christian Church (CHCC) a church of about 1500. We attended the 8:00 AM contemporary service in the church gym. Their interim youth minister (Beau Hamlin) spoke at all 5 services this Sunday. At 9:30 Joe, Aaron, Jeff and I attended the "Espresso Class." This was a introduction to the church that met at the coffee cart in the “Hospitality Center in the Auditorium Foyer.” We heard a short history of the church, took a tour of the building, and learned about the core values of the church and how to get involved. I picked up a newsletter, bulletin, and missions newsletter if you are interested in learning more about this church. Also at http://www.chcchurch.org/.
Beau Hamilin's message (from John 4) was about being able to trust God, even after the Tsunami of the previous week. “The world will see a trustworthy God – when they see a trustworthy people”
IDEA: The preschool department had video monitoring in each of the classes, which was shown on a TV in the check-in counter (it was angled so that both attendant and parents could view the monitor). The check-in counter had locked doors so no one could enter without permission from the attendant.
IDEA 2: The whole church studies the same book of the Bible. They are on a 4-6 year plan of going through the Bible. I got a sample of their plan.
Monday night Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Ministries spoke (http://www.marshillchurch.org/). He leads (and he is definitely a leader) a ministry that reaches out to the post-christian culture in Seattle.
Highlights from his message: The Gospel- is Jesus, Jesus, Jesus…we need to teach Jesus. The Culture- We are to be involved in our culture as missionaries. The Church- Christ gave Himself up for the Church. He died for the Church. The Church is His bride. Do talk bad about His Church and don’t let others talk bad about His Church.
Goals for his students: Be Christian – Love God and Love the Church…Be Missionaries – Love your neighbor.
Three things to do: 1. Critique the media – don’t avoid it but evaluate it. Teach students to think. What does God think? Help teenagers to learn to critique. He reads teen magazines and discusses the false gospels and false heavens portrayed by the contemporary culture. 2. Teach them to love the church. 3. Train them to love the Jesus of the Bible. Its about Him! When He teaches He shows how the OT points to Him. Take them to Jesus. Not the Jesus the world sets up but the Jesus of the Bible who is victorious, king and lord!
After the main session there was a Q&A time with Mark Driscoll.
-He talked about Pastor Dads – in each home dad is to be pastor to the family.
-There method of study is that the whole church studies the same book of the Bible. Sermon, small groups, Children, Youth, and Pastor Dads all have lessons from the same book of the Bible.
-Their church meetings progress like the gospel message. 1. Preparation – 1-3 songs. 2. Presentation of the message 3. Decision time. 4. Communion. 5. Celebration – longer worship in song.
-Their intro to Christianity/church class is 10 weeks in length.
For this report I am going to go day by day through the highlights of the convention.
On the weekends I stayed with Larry, Heather, and Klarissa Osborn and Joe Presler (and the first weekend Aaron Earlywine and Jeff Nichols) at Greg and Susan Murdock’s home. They have 6 kids who are all home schooled. Very nice family with a large house (4000 sq ft). Greg is CEO of College Press Publishing.
During the week I roomed with Aaron, Jeff, Ben Smith, and Bill Krause. I shared a car with Aaron and Jeff.
Sunday we went to College Heights Christian Church (CHCC) a church of about 1500. We attended the 8:00 AM contemporary service in the church gym. Their interim youth minister (Beau Hamlin) spoke at all 5 services this Sunday. At 9:30 Joe, Aaron, Jeff and I attended the "Espresso Class." This was a introduction to the church that met at the coffee cart in the “Hospitality Center in the Auditorium Foyer.” We heard a short history of the church, took a tour of the building, and learned about the core values of the church and how to get involved. I picked up a newsletter, bulletin, and missions newsletter if you are interested in learning more about this church. Also at http://www.chcchurch.org/.
Beau Hamilin's message (from John 4) was about being able to trust God, even after the Tsunami of the previous week. “The world will see a trustworthy God – when they see a trustworthy people”
IDEA: The preschool department had video monitoring in each of the classes, which was shown on a TV in the check-in counter (it was angled so that both attendant and parents could view the monitor). The check-in counter had locked doors so no one could enter without permission from the attendant.
IDEA 2: The whole church studies the same book of the Bible. They are on a 4-6 year plan of going through the Bible. I got a sample of their plan.
Monday night Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Ministries spoke (http://www.marshillchurch.org/). He leads (and he is definitely a leader) a ministry that reaches out to the post-christian culture in Seattle.
Highlights from his message: The Gospel- is Jesus, Jesus, Jesus…we need to teach Jesus. The Culture- We are to be involved in our culture as missionaries. The Church- Christ gave Himself up for the Church. He died for the Church. The Church is His bride. Do talk bad about His Church and don’t let others talk bad about His Church.
Goals for his students: Be Christian – Love God and Love the Church…Be Missionaries – Love your neighbor.
Three things to do: 1. Critique the media – don’t avoid it but evaluate it. Teach students to think. What does God think? Help teenagers to learn to critique. He reads teen magazines and discusses the false gospels and false heavens portrayed by the contemporary culture. 2. Teach them to love the church. 3. Train them to love the Jesus of the Bible. Its about Him! When He teaches He shows how the OT points to Him. Take them to Jesus. Not the Jesus the world sets up but the Jesus of the Bible who is victorious, king and lord!
After the main session there was a Q&A time with Mark Driscoll.
-He talked about Pastor Dads – in each home dad is to be pastor to the family.
-There method of study is that the whole church studies the same book of the Bible. Sermon, small groups, Children, Youth, and Pastor Dads all have lessons from the same book of the Bible.
-Their church meetings progress like the gospel message. 1. Preparation – 1-3 songs. 2. Presentation of the message 3. Decision time. 4. Communion. 5. Celebration – longer worship in song.
-Their intro to Christianity/church class is 10 weeks in length.
CIY's National Youth Leaders Convention - Joplin, MO - Tuesday
Tuesday morning Matt Proctor gave the early Bible sermon from the book of Titus. “AquaChurch: How to Turn a Leaky Boat into a Tight Ship.”
Tuesday Morning main session Mark DeVries (Youth Ministry Architects and author of Family Friendly Youth Ministry). That was after the Robbie Seay band lead some good worship music and Tim Jones did some funny stuff. They were both at each main session.
He talked about being “stuck.” Not knowing what to do next. He had some good insights on Youth Ministry. Some highlights:
In their research they have found 4 Normals in Youth Ministry:
1. YM usually consists of 10% of church attendance
2. 1 full-time youth worker for every 50 kids.
3. 1 volunteer for every active kid.
4. $1000 budgeted for every active kid.
He recommended the book The E Myth.
He challenged us to every week spend some time not doing ministry but working on ministry. [i.e. vision casting, etc.]
1. Have a directory – know your kids
2. Have clear expectations on how many kids I am expected to engage in ministry on a regular basis.
3. Have a staff and budget that matches expectations.
4. Have a year calendar.
5. Have weekly volunteers recruited and trained.
6. Curriculum picked and designed for a year.
Pay attention to what’s below the water. Character, heart, soul – “am I rearranging deck chairs when the boat may be sinking?” Students want a YM with a true relationship with Jesus. What’s below the water is what counts!
Mentors are needed to get you unstuck.
Prov 14.4 – ministry will be messy!
Messiness is not the same as sloppiness!
Tuesday seminar #1 – Gil Gilchrist “How to Quit “Dealing” With Parents”
Become family friendly. Work together with church staff to make the church family friendly. Overlap events. Plan camps at the same time to not tie up families so much during the summer. “I am family friendly”, let it be known. [Move Youth Church to Sunday mornings to be family friendly].
Respect time and money of families.
Communicate: e-mail, phone, mail, call-in line, blog…
Local mission projects are always family service projects. No longer youth or adult but family opportunities.
Parent meetings once a quarter. Give out 3X5 cards for notes, questions, and to write down events they want to volunteer to help with. Ask for help. Share calendar and ministry vision. Do a follow up letter to all parents with three main things talked about. Utilize parents – subs, cooks, hosts, driver, pray’ers, sm. group leaders.
Parent Forums – Not lead but facilitated. Round circle discussions. Hot topics – media, dress code… give them the topics at least 2 weeks in advance-send out an article or short paper on the topic. Have an expert – bring statistics, quotes, and 5+questions to get the discussion going. Have a goal for the meeting – even set policies [or work on them].
Tuesday seminar #2 – Tim Gray “Growing and Caring for Adult Volunteers”
How not to recruit: Don’t make YM sound easy, don’t guilt trip people, don’t lie, don’t recruit anyone who will show up to teach MS, don’t settle.
How to recruit: Start with general recruitment (bulletin, NL, preacher announcement), then speak to people one-on-one, do basic training (101- about YM, what and why 201- helpful hints for YM 202- character qualities-requirements), be prepared, be professional – good presentation, respect them, respect their time.
People to look for: dream sponsor – plays guitar and does sports too, older youth, old people, parents- look good in their eyes-communicate.
Move them into ministry: Don’t dump them in- move them in slowly, allow them to sit in class for a few weeks, then quip them, recruit them to be mentors-sit with youth, get to know names, contact ministry, be gentle, check with kids-ask them often about everything-they will have good ideas, check with staff and elders first before recruiting for key positions.
After recruited: Treat them like gold!, train them-www.pikeplacefish.com video-make it fun, book Seven Check Points, by Standley, recruit for Ministry Leaders- Church- music, tech, speakers, Guest services-greeting, follow-up, Small Groups, Large Group Events.
Books for Volunteers:
Help…I’m a HS Sponsor
Help…I’m a Small Group Leader
Help…I’m a Volunteer Group Worker
Help…I’m a Sunday School Teacher
How Not to Lead a Small Group
How to Recruit and Train Youth Volunteers
Play together with you volunteers- game nights, etc.
In between sessions I talked with the College Press representative about their new full church curriculum. It is a 6-Year through the Bible study coming out in Fall of 2006. It will be on computer disk and very affordable.
Tuesday night Matt Proctor spoke – “A White Water Faith” from Matt 14.22-32. Peter is the first ordinary man to walk on water. Those still in the boat are of the “legions of unjazzed.” This, a quote from a famous surfer (Phil Edwards) who spoke about the challenge of catching the perfect wave. Those who stay on the beach are of the legions of the unjazzed, living boring lives without faith. He also said, “there is a need in all of us for controlled danger.”
1. There is always a call – God is calling us to take risks.
2. There is always a fear
3. There is always a promise – “fear not” is in the Scriptures 366x
4. There is always a decision
5. There is always a reward
Tuesday Morning main session Mark DeVries (Youth Ministry Architects and author of Family Friendly Youth Ministry). That was after the Robbie Seay band lead some good worship music and Tim Jones did some funny stuff. They were both at each main session.
He talked about being “stuck.” Not knowing what to do next. He had some good insights on Youth Ministry. Some highlights:
In their research they have found 4 Normals in Youth Ministry:
1. YM usually consists of 10% of church attendance
2. 1 full-time youth worker for every 50 kids.
3. 1 volunteer for every active kid.
4. $1000 budgeted for every active kid.
He recommended the book The E Myth.
He challenged us to every week spend some time not doing ministry but working on ministry. [i.e. vision casting, etc.]
1. Have a directory – know your kids
2. Have clear expectations on how many kids I am expected to engage in ministry on a regular basis.
3. Have a staff and budget that matches expectations.
4. Have a year calendar.
5. Have weekly volunteers recruited and trained.
6. Curriculum picked and designed for a year.
Pay attention to what’s below the water. Character, heart, soul – “am I rearranging deck chairs when the boat may be sinking?” Students want a YM with a true relationship with Jesus. What’s below the water is what counts!
Mentors are needed to get you unstuck.
Prov 14.4 – ministry will be messy!
Messiness is not the same as sloppiness!
Tuesday seminar #1 – Gil Gilchrist “How to Quit “Dealing” With Parents”
Become family friendly. Work together with church staff to make the church family friendly. Overlap events. Plan camps at the same time to not tie up families so much during the summer. “I am family friendly”, let it be known. [Move Youth Church to Sunday mornings to be family friendly].
Respect time and money of families.
Communicate: e-mail, phone, mail, call-in line, blog…
Local mission projects are always family service projects. No longer youth or adult but family opportunities.
Parent meetings once a quarter. Give out 3X5 cards for notes, questions, and to write down events they want to volunteer to help with. Ask for help. Share calendar and ministry vision. Do a follow up letter to all parents with three main things talked about. Utilize parents – subs, cooks, hosts, driver, pray’ers, sm. group leaders.
Parent Forums – Not lead but facilitated. Round circle discussions. Hot topics – media, dress code… give them the topics at least 2 weeks in advance-send out an article or short paper on the topic. Have an expert – bring statistics, quotes, and 5+questions to get the discussion going. Have a goal for the meeting – even set policies [or work on them].
Tuesday seminar #2 – Tim Gray “Growing and Caring for Adult Volunteers”
How not to recruit: Don’t make YM sound easy, don’t guilt trip people, don’t lie, don’t recruit anyone who will show up to teach MS, don’t settle.
How to recruit: Start with general recruitment (bulletin, NL, preacher announcement), then speak to people one-on-one, do basic training (101- about YM, what and why 201- helpful hints for YM 202- character qualities-requirements), be prepared, be professional – good presentation, respect them, respect their time.
People to look for: dream sponsor – plays guitar and does sports too, older youth, old people, parents- look good in their eyes-communicate.
Move them into ministry: Don’t dump them in- move them in slowly, allow them to sit in class for a few weeks, then quip them, recruit them to be mentors-sit with youth, get to know names, contact ministry, be gentle, check with kids-ask them often about everything-they will have good ideas, check with staff and elders first before recruiting for key positions.
After recruited: Treat them like gold!, train them-www.pikeplacefish.com video-make it fun, book Seven Check Points, by Standley, recruit for Ministry Leaders- Church- music, tech, speakers, Guest services-greeting, follow-up, Small Groups, Large Group Events.
Books for Volunteers:
Help…I’m a HS Sponsor
Help…I’m a Small Group Leader
Help…I’m a Volunteer Group Worker
Help…I’m a Sunday School Teacher
How Not to Lead a Small Group
How to Recruit and Train Youth Volunteers
Play together with you volunteers- game nights, etc.
In between sessions I talked with the College Press representative about their new full church curriculum. It is a 6-Year through the Bible study coming out in Fall of 2006. It will be on computer disk and very affordable.
Tuesday night Matt Proctor spoke – “A White Water Faith” from Matt 14.22-32. Peter is the first ordinary man to walk on water. Those still in the boat are of the “legions of unjazzed.” This, a quote from a famous surfer (Phil Edwards) who spoke about the challenge of catching the perfect wave. Those who stay on the beach are of the legions of the unjazzed, living boring lives without faith. He also said, “there is a need in all of us for controlled danger.”
1. There is always a call – God is calling us to take risks.
2. There is always a fear
3. There is always a promise – “fear not” is in the Scriptures 366x
4. There is always a decision
5. There is always a reward
CIY's National Youth Leaders Convention - Joplin, MO - Wednesday
Wednesday morning Dan Kimball spoke on “Waves of Change.”
[He is the author of the book Emerging Church which Scott Simons bought last summer, read and passed on to me and Tom. Then I bought two more copies for key leaders read.]
Culture effects people – people live in culture.
Matt 9.36-38 – Jesus had compassion for the people.
Why do so many 18-30 year olds leave the church after HS graduation?
Modern Era- Judeo-Christian society
-Church got stuck in the 1940s-1950s-1960s
-Para-church organizations sprung up to fill the gap.
-People left churches because they were not connecting
-1980s churches became “seeker-sensitive” and have successfully reached out to many of the disenfranchised former church goers.
Post Christian Era
-Under 30 year olds don’t align with the Judeo-Christian worldview and Christian values.
Observations:
Everyone is not in alignment with the Judeo-Christian God.
Judges 2.11
Book: A New Religious America, by Eck. “Most Christian leaders remain unaware.”
BOARD GAME: “Enlighten: For Seekers. Age 12 and Up.” It’s for all religious seekers and explores several religions.
The Christian Subculture. [Christian ghetto]
There is an openness to spiritual things.
Kabbalah – an ancient faith that is growing in popularity.
Christianity is an ancient mysterious faith.
On the street interview: “What comes to your mind when you hear the name Jesus?” “What comes to your mind when you hear the name Christian?”
While in the rental car we were listening to the Apologetix Greatest Hits double CD that was given to us FREE. Some impressive songs. They are talented musicians.
Question: Ask: What do we need to do/change to change our meeting time?
Ask = Aric, DJ, Scott, Tom, Patrick, et al
Wednesday seminar #1 Dan Kimball Emerging Worship
*see handout
Isn’t worship more than singing and preaching? Why do we get together? His outline:
1. Why things are changing – some history on modern seekers v. post-Christian seekers
2. How we see truth proclaimed with more than only words and music [in the Bible]
3. Some thoughts about learning in the Church – learning styles differ among adults, too.
4. Creative worship expression beyond preaching and singing.
A. Prayer
B. Scripture
C. Sacred space
What emotions, feelings, and connections does our architecture convey?
D. Music
It’s not a performance! Should the band be the focal point?
E. Spoken word
F. Fine arts
G. Interactive prayer stations.
H. Visuals
I. Video
5. Putting together a whole worship experience
6. A closing word
Wednesday seminar #2 Darrel Mansfield Depression
Bio: Gentle Faith Band – Calvary Chapel –moving to Salem – Elsenor Theater
1971 Depression – attempted suicide
Has 7 kids
2001 Attempted suicide - Mental hospital for 2 years
Determined a “Depressive Episode” 2x in his life – not chronic illness
Used hospital stay (2 yrs) as a divine appointment. Studied all he could about
mental illness. In group sessions and teaching videos. Classes. Going to write
about a book about experiences.
www.darrellmansfield.net
Spiritual Whimp? – Second class citizen of heaven? No, mental illness – the Brain is an organ
– it is an illness. It gets sick.
Church members in mental hospital what can church do?
-Show you care and are there for them. Phone calls, letters, visit.
Find out who Christian doctors, psychologist, counselors are in area to refer people.
Wednesday Night Dan Kimball spoke at the main session.
Illustration: the Ramones - Disco, glam-rock. They stayed true to their mission. They were extremely passionate to their mission = punk. They were extremely knowledgeable of other genres. Bono said, “With out the Romones there would be no U2.”
Look at what Jesus said and how it applies to us.
Matthew 9:36-38
Matthew 10:16 – sheep with wolves...be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Snakes- Wise - thinkers not just responders. Ask a lot of us. Which battles to take up.
Be observant – Watch what’s going on. Sit, watch and observe what’s going on in culture.
Why do thy get so excited on Mexico mission trips? Ask them.
“I get to serve God.” Why are missions always somewhere else?
Aralcatnas – Santa Clara
Psalms 78:72
Darrel Mansfield and Eric Turner concert Wednesday night rocked! They must be two of the best blues musicians alive. I purchased a CD. I also have two earlier cassettes of Mansfield’s.
On both Tuesday & Wednesday nights Aaron, Ben, Jeff and I went to the open-gym to play basketball at CHCC until after midnight.
[He is the author of the book Emerging Church which Scott Simons bought last summer, read and passed on to me and Tom. Then I bought two more copies for key leaders read.]
Culture effects people – people live in culture.
Matt 9.36-38 – Jesus had compassion for the people.
Why do so many 18-30 year olds leave the church after HS graduation?
Modern Era- Judeo-Christian society
-Church got stuck in the 1940s-1950s-1960s
-Para-church organizations sprung up to fill the gap.
-People left churches because they were not connecting
-1980s churches became “seeker-sensitive” and have successfully reached out to many of the disenfranchised former church goers.
Post Christian Era
-Under 30 year olds don’t align with the Judeo-Christian worldview and Christian values.
Observations:
Everyone is not in alignment with the Judeo-Christian God.
Judges 2.11
Book: A New Religious America, by Eck. “Most Christian leaders remain unaware.”
BOARD GAME: “Enlighten: For Seekers. Age 12 and Up.” It’s for all religious seekers and explores several religions.
The Christian Subculture. [Christian ghetto]
There is an openness to spiritual things.
Kabbalah – an ancient faith that is growing in popularity.
Christianity is an ancient mysterious faith.
On the street interview: “What comes to your mind when you hear the name Jesus?” “What comes to your mind when you hear the name Christian?”
While in the rental car we were listening to the Apologetix Greatest Hits double CD that was given to us FREE. Some impressive songs. They are talented musicians.
Question: Ask: What do we need to do/change to change our meeting time?
Ask = Aric, DJ, Scott, Tom, Patrick, et al
Wednesday seminar #1 Dan Kimball Emerging Worship
*see handout
Isn’t worship more than singing and preaching? Why do we get together? His outline:
1. Why things are changing – some history on modern seekers v. post-Christian seekers
2. How we see truth proclaimed with more than only words and music [in the Bible]
3. Some thoughts about learning in the Church – learning styles differ among adults, too.
4. Creative worship expression beyond preaching and singing.
A. Prayer
B. Scripture
C. Sacred space
What emotions, feelings, and connections does our architecture convey?
D. Music
It’s not a performance! Should the band be the focal point?
E. Spoken word
F. Fine arts
G. Interactive prayer stations.
H. Visuals
I. Video
5. Putting together a whole worship experience
6. A closing word
Wednesday seminar #2 Darrel Mansfield Depression
Bio: Gentle Faith Band – Calvary Chapel –moving to Salem – Elsenor Theater
1971 Depression – attempted suicide
Has 7 kids
2001 Attempted suicide - Mental hospital for 2 years
Determined a “Depressive Episode” 2x in his life – not chronic illness
Used hospital stay (2 yrs) as a divine appointment. Studied all he could about
mental illness. In group sessions and teaching videos. Classes. Going to write
about a book about experiences.
www.darrellmansfield.net
Spiritual Whimp? – Second class citizen of heaven? No, mental illness – the Brain is an organ
– it is an illness. It gets sick.
Church members in mental hospital what can church do?
-Show you care and are there for them. Phone calls, letters, visit.
Find out who Christian doctors, psychologist, counselors are in area to refer people.
Wednesday Night Dan Kimball spoke at the main session.
Illustration: the Ramones - Disco, glam-rock. They stayed true to their mission. They were extremely passionate to their mission = punk. They were extremely knowledgeable of other genres. Bono said, “With out the Romones there would be no U2.”
Look at what Jesus said and how it applies to us.
Matthew 9:36-38
Matthew 10:16 – sheep with wolves...be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Snakes- Wise - thinkers not just responders. Ask a lot of us. Which battles to take up.
Be observant – Watch what’s going on. Sit, watch and observe what’s going on in culture.
Why do thy get so excited on Mexico mission trips? Ask them.
“I get to serve God.” Why are missions always somewhere else?
Aralcatnas – Santa Clara
Psalms 78:72
Darrel Mansfield and Eric Turner concert Wednesday night rocked! They must be two of the best blues musicians alive. I purchased a CD. I also have two earlier cassettes of Mansfield’s.
On both Tuesday & Wednesday nights Aaron, Ben, Jeff and I went to the open-gym to play basketball at CHCC until after midnight.
CIY's National Youth Leaders Convention - Joplin, MO - Thursday
Thursday morning main session speaker was Brian McClaren.
Illustrations:
-Champion Wave Riders
-1998 Floods in Honduras, 100 in of rain in one week, river changed its course.
-Change in Europe and the church 300 -1500
-Picture of turtle with Gatorade ring around hits middle. She was fertile, laid eggs, figure 8, babe of all turtles, destructive image, freed to have a future.
1. Choose your wave wisely!
Changes worth going for – some waves too big others too small.
Which are right for jumping on to ride.
2. Know the Sweet Spot!
Each wave has right place and time to jump on.
Disciples of Jesus! What I want and what I want for my students.
Community of disciples.
3. Expect to fall sometimes!
Falling and getting up again.
Discipleship is along series of failures in the direction of obedience.
4. Watch out for sharks!
External sharks – some people are dangerous to be around.
Internal sharks – Stress, addiction, pride, greed, and fear.
5. Have some good mentors!
Hebrews 13,7,17
6. Never surf alone!
The value of lifelong friends
How to find friends… be friendly.
7. Keep your balance!
Love God!
Love your neighbor!
Befriend yourself – Don’t let your job eat up your life.
There is a lot of change out there.
But Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
He doesn’t change but rides the waves better than any.
CIY Missions Free Pizza lunch on Thursday
-Tsunami SE Asia 300,000+ may die. These countries are made up of the 3 most un-churched people groups – Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist.
If your mature committed/mature enough to be a Christian, your
you’re mature/committed enough to be a missionary. If you’re not
committed enough to be a missionary, you’re not ready(?) to be a
Christian because in the Bible they’re the same thing.
Thursday seminar #1 Gil Gilchist Vision Casting
* See Handout
Highlighted thoughts:
What are your dreams for your ministry?
How do you currently communicate your dreams?
How do others “fit” in your dreams?
Biblical Thoughts:
1. You can only lead where you’ve been
2. Servanthood with a vision
3. Help your team win with coaching
Set aside a Prayer and Planning day once a month. A full 8 hour day. Schedule it on the calendar. Make it a priority. [Possibly coordinate this with CORE?]
What should I have a vision for? Outreach, missions (4 year plan?), church, small groups, leader development, discipleship, classes, etc.
How do I get people to buy into my vision? Start with small, sure wins (Guiliani). Understand your skills – surround yourself with people with opposite skills.
Over communicate your vision. Keep it simple. Communicate it to parents, coaches, student leaders, [and to students].
What is our main thing (Ethos according to McManus). What is our hill to die on? What is the distinguishing character or disposition of our group?
How about being and making disciples – Loving God – Loving others.
For events know: What, why, & how – and know how to explain it clearly.
Thursday seminar #2 Steve Johnson Object Lessons-Illusions (magic tricks)
* See Handout that shows in detail how to do illusions for messages.
Illustrations:
-Champion Wave Riders
-1998 Floods in Honduras, 100 in of rain in one week, river changed its course.
-Change in Europe and the church 300 -1500
-Picture of turtle with Gatorade ring around hits middle. She was fertile, laid eggs, figure 8, babe of all turtles, destructive image, freed to have a future.
1. Choose your wave wisely!
Changes worth going for – some waves too big others too small.
Which are right for jumping on to ride.
2. Know the Sweet Spot!
Each wave has right place and time to jump on.
Disciples of Jesus! What I want and what I want for my students.
Community of disciples.
3. Expect to fall sometimes!
Falling and getting up again.
Discipleship is along series of failures in the direction of obedience.
4. Watch out for sharks!
External sharks – some people are dangerous to be around.
Internal sharks – Stress, addiction, pride, greed, and fear.
5. Have some good mentors!
Hebrews 13,7,17
6. Never surf alone!
The value of lifelong friends
How to find friends… be friendly.
7. Keep your balance!
Love God!
Love your neighbor!
Befriend yourself – Don’t let your job eat up your life.
There is a lot of change out there.
But Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
He doesn’t change but rides the waves better than any.
CIY Missions Free Pizza lunch on Thursday
-Tsunami SE Asia 300,000+ may die. These countries are made up of the 3 most un-churched people groups – Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist.
If your mature committed/mature enough to be a Christian, your
you’re mature/committed enough to be a missionary. If you’re not
committed enough to be a missionary, you’re not ready(?) to be a
Christian because in the Bible they’re the same thing.
Thursday seminar #1 Gil Gilchist Vision Casting
* See Handout
Highlighted thoughts:
What are your dreams for your ministry?
How do you currently communicate your dreams?
How do others “fit” in your dreams?
Biblical Thoughts:
1. You can only lead where you’ve been
2. Servanthood with a vision
3. Help your team win with coaching
Set aside a Prayer and Planning day once a month. A full 8 hour day. Schedule it on the calendar. Make it a priority. [Possibly coordinate this with CORE?]
What should I have a vision for? Outreach, missions (4 year plan?), church, small groups, leader development, discipleship, classes, etc.
How do I get people to buy into my vision? Start with small, sure wins (Guiliani). Understand your skills – surround yourself with people with opposite skills.
Over communicate your vision. Keep it simple. Communicate it to parents, coaches, student leaders, [and to students].
What is our main thing (Ethos according to McManus). What is our hill to die on? What is the distinguishing character or disposition of our group?
How about being and making disciples – Loving God – Loving others.
For events know: What, why, & how – and know how to explain it clearly.
Thursday seminar #2 Steve Johnson Object Lessons-Illusions (magic tricks)
* See Handout that shows in detail how to do illusions for messages.
CIY's National Youth Leaders Conference - Joplin, MO - Friday
Friday Larry, Heather, Klarissa, Joe and I had lunch with Jeff Snell and family. We had a great lunch and got to hear first hand that Jeff is leaving Ozark Christian College to start a Doctorate Program at Lincoln Christian College. That information is just today being made public (1.10.05).
Mrs. Snell (Francine) offers K-5 curriculum free on CD-ROM. Email @ JSNELL@OCC.edu
Mr. Snell (Jeff) is taking a position at Lincoln this summer 6/05 to begin a doctoral program and to be its Dean.
Friday afternoon we stopped by to CHCC (http://www.chcchurch.org/) to pick up information on their through the Bible curriculum and had a chance to talk to Randy Gariss. He let us know about his new marriage counseling DVD out this last week. He told us we could buy for $39.00 if we mention him at Good News Productions. We went to GNPI and bought copies for our churches.
IDEA: Use for premarital counseling – team up pre-marital couples with married couples to go through DVD.
IDEA: encourage SCCC to go with a whole church curriculum of going through the Bible. This came up four times during my week. Mark Driscoll (Mars Hill Ministries), CHCC – Rick Bushnell), Francine Snell, and College Press curriculum. Look into Mrs. Snell’s curriculum.
Mrs. Snell (Francine) offers K-5 curriculum free on CD-ROM. Email @ JSNELL@OCC.edu
Mr. Snell (Jeff) is taking a position at Lincoln this summer 6/05 to begin a doctoral program and to be its Dean.
Friday afternoon we stopped by to CHCC (http://www.chcchurch.org/) to pick up information on their through the Bible curriculum and had a chance to talk to Randy Gariss. He let us know about his new marriage counseling DVD out this last week. He told us we could buy for $39.00 if we mention him at Good News Productions. We went to GNPI and bought copies for our churches.
IDEA: Use for premarital counseling – team up pre-marital couples with married couples to go through DVD.
IDEA: encourage SCCC to go with a whole church curriculum of going through the Bible. This came up four times during my week. Mark Driscoll (Mars Hill Ministries), CHCC – Rick Bushnell), Francine Snell, and College Press curriculum. Look into Mrs. Snell’s curriculum.
Jan 14, 2005
Ford GR-1
From the 2005 North American International Car Show. Ford concept GR-1 by Shelby. The hand-polished body of the Shelby GR-1 concept car sparkled under the lights at the auto show in Detroit. The vehicle is based on Ford's GT supercar and is powered by 605-horsepower V10.
Jan 10, 2005
Marriage Break up - Brad & Jennifer
Brad and Jennifer have broke up ... sad isn't it. Hollywood's prince and princess.
With no foundation in Truth it must be hard to make it work.
It is probably hard with all the travel and long hours that Hollywood requires.
God hates divorce-Malachi 2.16. We are to be reminded that as Christians we are to carefully marry. Definitely not outside the faith. 2 Corinthians 6.14 - "Be not bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship light with darkness?"
Notice, even in context, this applies to more that just marriages, too. As Christians we are not to be bound to non-Christians. Business relationships, contractual relationships, etc.
With no foundation in Truth it must be hard to make it work.
It is probably hard with all the travel and long hours that Hollywood requires.
God hates divorce-Malachi 2.16. We are to be reminded that as Christians we are to carefully marry. Definitely not outside the faith. 2 Corinthians 6.14 - "Be not bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship light with darkness?"
Notice, even in context, this applies to more that just marriages, too. As Christians we are not to be bound to non-Christians. Business relationships, contractual relationships, etc.
Ford - Dodge - Chevy
As many of you know I am a hard-core FORD guy. My dream vehicle is the one I own (early Ford Bronco). Sure a Ford GT would be fun and all but its not something I would want to own.
As I think about the current American car manufactures I find something very interesting. Chrysler/Dodge has been leading the way for the last several years as far as developing new and inovative cars and trucks. They came up with the mini-van with the Caravan. They created an new sports car a few years ago that has become a classic - the viper. They created the big truck fenom with the larger sized Ram Truck about 10 years ago, Ford followed and finally Chevy has too. Dodge created a good looking SUV in the Durango and their new van the Sprinter in conjunction with Frieghtliner is redefining the full-sized van. Chrysler/ Dodge is the most innovative American car manufacturer.
All this said, Chrysler/Dodge is still not making money and Ford still sells many more full-sized trucks and SUVs. Ford sold over 950,000 p/u trucks last year. That is almost a million new trucks! Even if they have followed Dodge some of the the time with their truck design, they have improved the looks of the Dodge trucks in my opinion. The new F150 is cool looking (the Tonka Truck look).
Another plug for Ford is the new Ford GT. There is not a cooler looking (nor faster) sports car out there. It is a piece of art and a machine check out.
So where does this put Chevy? Some of you say, "well they have the corvette." Yeah, so what. Nothing new. Nothing to note. Their new trucks are ugly. Think Avalanche. There is the SSR, but it really only looks good from certain angles.
So to you who vandalized my office...Chevy sucks rotten carrots.
As I think about the current American car manufactures I find something very interesting. Chrysler/Dodge has been leading the way for the last several years as far as developing new and inovative cars and trucks. They came up with the mini-van with the Caravan. They created an new sports car a few years ago that has become a classic - the viper. They created the big truck fenom with the larger sized Ram Truck about 10 years ago, Ford followed and finally Chevy has too. Dodge created a good looking SUV in the Durango and their new van the Sprinter in conjunction with Frieghtliner is redefining the full-sized van. Chrysler/ Dodge is the most innovative American car manufacturer.
All this said, Chrysler/Dodge is still not making money and Ford still sells many more full-sized trucks and SUVs. Ford sold over 950,000 p/u trucks last year. That is almost a million new trucks! Even if they have followed Dodge some of the the time with their truck design, they have improved the looks of the Dodge trucks in my opinion. The new F150 is cool looking (the Tonka Truck look).
Another plug for Ford is the new Ford GT. There is not a cooler looking (nor faster) sports car out there. It is a piece of art and a machine check out.
So where does this put Chevy? Some of you say, "well they have the corvette." Yeah, so what. Nothing new. Nothing to note. Their new trucks are ugly. Think Avalanche. There is the SSR, but it really only looks good from certain angles.
So to you who vandalized my office...Chevy sucks rotten carrots.
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