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Jerrod Blogged.

2010-02-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

Being I have allowed myself to get to busy to write, Jerrod is picking up the slack for me. Here is the link to his post:

http://jerrodturner.blogspot.com/2010/02/just-stay-in-tower-please.html

Elevate Guys - Time to man up

2010-02-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Alright Guys, time to jump in a group and be a man of integrity and second chances.

Choose a time that fits for you. See you soon.

Monday 7pm- Jordan Dudley 936-2039

Sunday Afternoon 4pm- Phillip Barnes 334-7786

Sunday Afternoon in Tulare- Andy Tiner 805-7913 (in Tulare)

Monday- 7pm Jordan Dudley 936-2039

Tuesday Nights- 8:30 PM- Glenn Larson 730-3442 (After Elevate)

Wednesday Nights 6:30 Joel Hedlund 731-2975

Thursday 1:00 PM Michael Burnias 309-2930

Friday 10 AM- Andrew Short 679-3046

Elevate Reading Challenge

2010-01-29T11:03:00.000-08:00

Hope the reading is going well for those who are taking the challenge. Here is an Blog Entry form Jerrod. Feel free to send in your writings. Elevate 30 day challenge blog will be up shortly.

Day One - John 1

John the Baptist got IT. A crazy wild man of the desert, who may have looked a lot like a televangelist does to us these days. Big hair, loud booming voice, and making some monstrous claims to anyone who would listen and offending a lot of people. John chapter 1 verse 20 captures John’s heart, “He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Christ.” He didn’t have a savior complex. He wasn’t trying to be something he wasn’t. He was aware of who he was because he was aware of who Christ was.
21 They asked him, “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?”
He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?”
He answered, “No.”

22 Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’ ”

People wanted to know who this wild man was not because he was a joke or not a big deal, but because he was making waves in the pool and people were listening…and starting to believe.

When was the last time someone mistook you for a prophet or a reincarnated man or woman from the ancient days? When we live with an awareness of the true identity of Christ then we will live in an awareness of our true identity. We aren’t the star of the show, this epic story of life isn’t about us, it started long before we did and it will last longer then our minds can even imagine. Our job then becomes to be “the voice of one calling” and “making straight the way for the Lord”. The world is not rolling out the red carpet for our return…all creation will roll it our for Him. We’ve been called to get an early jump start on this. Start calling and start making straight paths. Don’t stand in the spotlight but turn it towards the one who deserves it.

The Word of God- Elevate Leadership Team

2010-01-27T15:15:00.002-08:00

the Bible from Joel Hedlund on Vimeo.

Join us for the 30 day Challenge- Click Here
The gospels in 30 days.

2010-01-27T15:15:00.001-08:00

the Bible from Joel Hedlund on Vimeo.

2010-01-23T08:23:00.000-08:00

Great Article from John Acuff at Stuff Christians like

http://tinyurl.com/yzxynor

My thoughts on this article:

Right on the Money. I also think sometimes as Christians we are so results based we don't care about the Journey- we just want to get to where we think we should be spiritually, relationally, occupationally, etc.
I truly think that God values the journey every bit as much if not more than the result- we should too.

The Devestation in Haiti and The Glory of God.

2010-01-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

Its been interesting to see the response to the tragedy in Haiti. From the pouring out of compassion and kindness of people to the controversy surrounding comments made by Pat Robertson. I will admit I spent a some time worrying about distancing myself from Pat Robertson's and clenching my teeth in anger because because I don't believe his views truly represent God's views on this tragedy. Donald Miller wrote an article that really helped and encouraged my thoughts on this particular subject.

Thinking through this and wondering why such devastation seems to happen in area's that are already ravaged by poverty, got me asking the every familiar question "Why, God?" I know God is sovereign and that nothing happens without his knowledge and permission, but it often becomes difficult to manage that with the God who would sacrifice his own Son on our behalf. We can do what Pat did and quickly blame it on a vengeful God who is punishing people for the sins of their ancestors or we can look to the Bible.

John Chapter 9 helps bring some resolution to my heart.

1. As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth.2 "Rabbi," his disciples asked him, "why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents' sins?"
3 "It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins," Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.5 But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world."

The disciples response was like Robertson's, basically- who should we blame? Jesus' response was that this happened so that the Glory of God would be revealed.

I believe in a God who is bigger than tragedy, who is so big in fact that he can receive glory out of every situation regardless the magnitude. We are here on this earth for one reason alone, for the glory of God. I look forward to Christ receiving incredible amounts of glory by the response of his people. A window has been opened for the followers of Christ to proclaim who he is, not by how smart we are or how we explain things, but rather by acting as he would act.

Matthew 25:35-36 (New International Version)³⁵For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

Dance Machine

2010-01-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

This is my 3 year old Jackson dancing at Church. He is constantly teaching me about what being a genuine follower of Jesus looks like. I am working on slowing down and enjoying life more and caring less about what people think about me and gaining their praise. This is one of those moments. I think this is part of what Jesus was talking about when he said having a faith like a child. Jackson didn't care that there were 1200 people around, he just wanted to dance. I think there are a lot of expectations (most of them false) placed on people on what being a "Christian Includes." These expectations often lead us into a mundane relationship with Jesus based on obligation rather than a free relationship that makes us want to dance. Last night my family were all in the living room and a graet song came on TV, my response was to scream out "family dance party" we danced and laughed and made a memory I will have for the rest of my life. Do yourself a favor and take some time to dance today.

Things I learned while taking a Social Networking Sabbatical

2010-01-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

In early December, I decided to take a challenge and take a break from social networking (i.e. Twitter, facebook and blogging) I don’t think I was necessarily an addict (first sign is denial…) but I felt I needed to take a break and focus on some other areas of my life that needed attention, specifically in the relational area. Here are a few things I learned during this break.

1. The importance of replacement.
-If you intentional stop doing something, if you don’t replace it with something better, that void will be filled. If it is not intentionally replaced with something worthwhile, things of not so great value slide in very quickly. Early on I was amazed at how quickly the social networking time was replaced with Sportcenter, mindless channel surfing, and funny youtube video’s. Not bad stuff, but not exactly character shaping either.
2. The power of Social Networking.
-Although I realize the World Wide Web survived just fine without my presence I was surprised and encouraged by how many people commented on missing me. Other than just feeling stroked by a pat on the back (we’re all above that… right?), I am challenged to use this powerful tool to make an impact for the kingdom of God. Blogging is a powerful opportunity to put what you are learning into writing. This often makes it more real, practical, and best of all applicable.
3. The importance of intentional relationships.
-I am excited about using the www tool, but it was refreshing to seek people out to sit down and have some solid face to face time to connect, rather than the facebook “drive by’s.” Don’t let technological networking take the place of meaningful relationships. There’s nothing like looking in the eyes of a person when you tell them how valuable they are to you- when’s the last time you did that?
4. Power of God’s Word
-That should be a “Duh” statement for a pastor right? The truth is a lot of times pastors and people in leadership can begin to think that it is about themselves (OK, sometimes I think its about me! I won’t deflect!) Honestly, I have nothing to offer except that which Jesus chooses to release in me and through me. We find out who he is through his word, and we get more to share the more we are around him. One of my main purposes for taking this break was to get deeper in his word. Wish I could say I did better, but the extra time I did devote was extremely valuable. I am going to make sure and begin setting aside a daily time that cannot be used on preparing stuff for other people, but rather allowing Gods word to seep deep in my life.
5. My impact on my Family
-Once again not earth shattering news here, but taking a little extra time to be intentional creates huge life change, especially in my young boys. Taking the great and tough moments in life and using them to teach is something I am beginning to get a new perspective on. My Family is and will always be my primary ministry, I am looking forward to what God has in store through them, and that is not going to come by posting something nice about them on facebook.

Taking a break from Technology

2009-12-08T11:19:00.000-08:00

I am officially taking a break from technology for the rest of 2009. I have become a little to dependent (possibly addicted) to technology and social networking so I am gonna take a break. Gonna spend more time in the word, more time with family, and hopefully more time in prayer.

Technology is a great tool in sharing the goodness of God and message of a transformed life, however, it can become one of the greatest time robbers and I am guilty.

Looking forward to a great Christmas season and seeing what God has in store as I draw close to him.

Merry Christmas everyone and happy new year!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T09:41:00.001-08:00

I Love Honesty

2009-11-21T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm Trying to learn to tell it like it is. (in love of course) I think I am gonna go to this guy for lessons.

Information and Technology Explosion

2009-11-19T07:06:00.000-08:00

Amazing facts!!! Makes me wonder how the followers of Christ are doing with Advancing the greatest information ever: the message of Hope and Forgiveness found in Christ.

Great time to be alive, great time to be bold with what we are empowered to share.

Uniqueness of your Voice

2009-11-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

Jesus says in John 10:10 "my sheep hear my voice." His voice is what guides us in to all truth. Last week in Elevate we talked about the importance of the Word of Truth and the Word of the Gospel.

Jesus also told his disciples that everything they saw him do they would do even greater things, because the Word that spoke the Universe into being is being instilled in all of us.

Challenge to think about: What are your words saying to others about the good news: the Gospel?

Just read a great blog entry from Mark Batterson, one of my favorite authors and speakers:

Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Unique Voiceprint

There never has been and never will be anyone like you. But that isn't a testament to you. It's a testament to the God who created you absolutely unique.

All of creation is singing a worship chorus to God. And it's not just the meadow lark with its 300 notes or the nightingale finch with its 24 songs. According to the German physicist and pianist, Arnold Summerfield, a hydrogen atom emits 100 frequencies which makes it more complex musically than a grand piano which emits 88 frequencies.

For what its worth, Pythagoras said: "A stone is frozen music." Very interesting in light of what Jesus said: "If you remain silent the stones will cry out."

My point? All of creation is singing a unique song to the Creator. And you are part of that universal chorus. No one can worship God FOR you or LIKE you. God has given you a unique voiceprint. There are millions of people praying and worshiping God in every language all the time. But your voiceprint is unique. Like a parent who knows His child's unique cry or scream or laugh, God knows your voice. He hears your voice. The Heavenly Father loves your voice.

Man Cold

2009-11-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

Sad thing is this is how a lot of Men are in the Church. We have abandoned our posts and have left the ladies lead alone. Studies show that Women make up 60% of the church despite men having over 95% staff positions in them, and the 40% are mostly sideline observers when it comes to cultivating the younger generation.
This is not a gender equality issue, God created us both equal in his site, however he did instruct the men to lead and to care for the women the same we he did the church (he gave his life!) Time to start manning up fella's. Thanks to all the great women women who continue so faithful and have are still carrying most of the weight, help is on the way!

Religion and Dating

2009-11-16T10:19:00.000-08:00

being a leader of a primarily single group I found this article on religion, attraction and sexuality to be extremely interesting:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20091116/sc_livescience/romanticrivalriesstirreligiousfeelings

I am not so naive to think that young people come to Elevate merely because of the great music or the teaching. In fact I know and have heard of many who are coming because they have hopes of connecting with a significant other. I personally don't think that that is necessarily a bad thing. There are lots of meat market venues around mostly centered around alcohol consumption to lower inhibitions and heighten confidence but these mostly lead to meaningless (unless you throw in guilt and shame) hookups. I love the fact that we have an opportunity that provides an opportunity to for people to develop community with people of the same age and that there might possibly be some romantic connections that come to fruition.

The danger is when there is no standards and accountability, and people allow their natural inclinations to guide them rather than God's leading in their life. That is why it is so important for us to address the area of integrity. My favorite definition of integrity is: who you are when no one is looking. If we are seeking to build and train up Godly young men and women who value integrity, then I think this can be a great place for people to find dating relationships- as long as that becomes secondary to living a life above reproach.

I am looking forward to this new season we are in of challenging people to embrace real relationships and accountability that promote integrity. These test can say whatever they want about why or why not people are religious or why they attend church, but each and every person has a decision to make: am I gonna do thing my way or Gods way. Am I going to pursue instant gratification or grow in character and see what kind of person that attracts and let God bring that perfect person into our lives.

The place I dream of Elevate becoming, is a place where the Men walk in integrity and look to protect the girls before they think of their attractiveness or date-ability.
A place where women know who they are in Christ and don't need a man to validate them or a dating relationship to feel loved. A place where guys and girls can buidl friendships without thinking of "what is their real intentions" this is the kind of place where real dynamic relationship can flourish and where some of the best marriages for the new generation can begin.

Deadly Viper- Who's up for integrity???

2009-11-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

Deadly Viper Character Assassins Promo Video from organic visual on Vimeo.

Handling Tough Situations (With Confidence and Trust)

2009-11-10T10:21:00.001-08:00

It seems the theme of the last year and more specifically at this very time- the theme seems to be being stuck in sticky situations where clear wisdom is absolute necessary. I have found that I am am good at diagnosing problems but when it actually comes to the steps of a solution I am not so great. So I diagnosed my problem: 1. I live a lot of life based on fear ("what bad thing will happen if a no or don't do this") and 2. I really don't trust God.

Just recently I encountered a few of these sticky situations, and tried to look at them from a new angle. Instead of worrying about the circumstances and how I will come off looking after the dust settles- I am beginning to just say "What is the right thing to do. Period." and then to begin there will all decisions and conversation. The second thing I am doing is starting to generally trust God, when I pray, instead of praying out a anxiety and pleading to be removed from the situation, I am beginning to thank God for this opportunity to grow, and trust that regardless of the outcome- his will will prevail and realizing any outcome that I contrive cannot even compare with his amzing plan.

The Crazy thing is that it is working. I am less stressed, I have clearer vision, and the outcomes are blowing me away. This "God is in control" stuff really works when I listen, trust, and act out of confidence in who he is and what he wants to do.

The Swine Flu

2009-11-09T06:56:00.000-08:00

Every feel like the Pig, or go along with a group of Animals.
Lord keep us healthy and let us love the sick!!!

Francis Chans New Book

2009-10-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Francis Chan has a new book out, it is third on my "to read" list after I finish A million Miles in a Thousand years by Donald Miller and Deadly Viper: Kung Fu guide to survival by Mike Foster and Jud Wilhite. Going to start focusing on Character development in my own life and the community life of Elevate. Its gonna be awesome, painful but awesome.

2009-10-17T08:02:00.001-07:00

Wow!!! Good stuff from Donald Miller

2009-10-02T12:44:00.000-07:00

Donald Miller is one of my favorite authors, (getting his new book today "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years.")
This video excerpt of one of his messages reminds me I am on a long journey when it comes to my spiritual life. I beat myself up a lot because I don't get as far as I would like in my Journey with Christ. The content of the video sends that sentiment back to where it came from...

Abandonement of Self

2009-09-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Lately in my spiritual journey I have had the challenge of abandonment of self pop up quit a bit, to the point (as dumb as I may be) that I think God is trying to tell me something. I really do have a desire to follow Christ and see Him very evident in my life and around me, but it is so easy to get caught up in other things such as business, laziness, entertainment, work, family, struggles, discouragements... the list goes on. What it comes down to for me most of the time is my unwillingness to let go of control, or to let go of myself completely.

Today I read Oswald Chambers' my utmost for his highest. There it was again:

THE "GO" OF UNCONDITIONAL IDENTIFICATION

"One thing thou lackest: . . come, take up the cross, and follow Me." Mark 10:21

The rich young ruler had the master passion to be perfect. When he saw Jesus Christ, he wanted to be like Him. Our Lord never puts personal holiness to the fore when He calls a disciple; He puts absolute annihilation of my right to myself and identification with Himself - a relationship with Himself in which there is no other relationship. Luke 14:26 has nothing to do with salvation or sanctification, but with unconditional identification with Jesus Christ. Very few of us know the absolute "go" of abandonment to Jesus.

"Then Jesus beholding him loved him." The look of Jesus will mean a heart broken for ever from allegiance to any other person or thing. Has Jesus ever looked at you? The look of Jesus transforms and transfixes. Where you are "soft" with God is where the Lord has looked at you. If you are hard and vindictive, insistent on your own way, certain that the other person is more likely to be in the wrong than you are, it is an indication that there are whole tracts of your nature that have never been transformed by His gaze.

"One thing thou lackest . . ." The only "good thing" from Jesus Christ's point of view is union with Himself and nothing in between.

"Sell whatsoever thou hast . ." I must reduce myself until I am a mere conscious man, I must fundamentally renounce possessions of all kinds, not to save my soul (only one thing saves a man - absolute reliance upon Jesus Christ) - but in order to follow Jesus. "Come, and follow Me." And the road is the way He went.

I want to experience that look from Jesus to the point that nothing else matters. His gaze says I love you enough to demand from you that all these things that keep you from me are completely obliterated and gone. That's not legalism! That is love!!! I do know that God is calling me to reckless and complete abandonment of self, my hopes and prayers that my mind, will and strength will remember his look of love and transformation rather than looking for areas of comfort and apathy.

Inspired by LosWit today

2009-09-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

Was inspired by Carlos Whittaker today (ragamuffinsoul.com)

People Will Never Respect You Because Of What You’re ABOUT To Do

“My wife and I have thought about adopting for a while.”
“I’ve always wanted to write a book.”
“I think I might ask her out.”
“Yea, next time I go to a show I’ll sponsor a Compassion child.”
“You know, I’m gonna finally tell my boss to chill out and treat us with respect.”
“Dude! The church I’m planting is going to feed the homeless every Saturday morning.”
“That’s it. I’m seriously going to drop everything and become a photographer.”

These are just a few of the lines I remember from conversations I have been part of or overheard (yes, I’m a stalker) the past few weeks.
Dreams are fuel.
They fuel us to victory.
But most of the time they stay just that.
Dreams.
I lived most of my life “about” to do something.
Then one day Heather and I decided to stop living almost and start living all out.
Since that decision we have adopted our son Losiah, climbed the highest peak in North America, Jumped out of airplanes, been on a reality show, moved across the country, quit my job, signed a record deal, traveled to Uganda, co lived with 3 families, and so much more.
I honestly don’t share that to brag.
It might sound miserable to most of you.
We have had our share of suck.
If you read our blogs you know.
But we also realized that the American dream of white picket fences and a 9-5 isn’t our shtick.
And here is the harder truth.
It isn’t a lot of yours either.
You are living in the myth that stability = simply and safely existing.

Those statements up top usually end a few months later with financial, lack of time, fear, and man power excuses.
Here’s the truth.
There will NEVER be enough money, time, or help.
Heather and I spend at least one night a week looking at the checking account and crying then laughing then crying.
I could get a job at a church and play it safe.
That would not be a bad decision.
It would be a great decision.
It just would not be the RIGHT decision, right now.
Because right now God has called me to pour into the global church and when that season is over, it would be a blessing to work in the local church again.
Just not now.
And so we pray, fast, hustle, laugh, and cry.
And inside all of that, we live.

I’m willing to bet a lot of you are ready for an adventure.
So what is it?
What are you going to do this week to take that one step away from safety and towards calling?
Los

Jesus loves Me- A reminder we all need!!!

2009-09-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

Jesus Loves You from ProlifikFilms on Vimeo.