TK's Blog

Maybe Things Happen in Threes...

2008-08-12T15:15:00.003-05:00

Don't know if it is really true or not, but my wife Dana says that bad things happen in threes. I'm not sure there is a scientific study to prove her right or not, but she is a pretty smart lady. Today I am grateful to report that good things also happen in threes.

Got an e-mail today. In fact, I got two of them. The first was from a youth pastor friend talking about the way God is working in the youth group. Students are sharing their faith and deliberately looking for ways to do that. Students are ministering to the needy. 5 of the students were baptized as a step of obedience to God. It would be easy and prideful to say that all this happened as a result of the group going to the Momentum conference last month. But the truth of the matter is that, yes, it was at Momentum, but God decided to move in significant ways that were not orchestrated by human hands. Yes, there is the importance of good planning, but the result was God ordained in the evidence of changed hearts. It was awesome to read about the things the teens in this group are doing for God's glory.

I then was forwarded an e-mail from an OB parent. Probably the most encouraging e-mail I have ever received from a parent. Here is a young man who is applying things at home with an unsaved sibling, in his church, and in his school. This young man is ASB president and looking at how to serve God and love people through that responsibility. He and another Christian friend are making plans to start a Bible study on campus too. Awesome. He gets it.

I just found out that we went way over the fuel budget for the OB teams this summer--even after some serious adjustments and a large percent of the budget given to that. Some dear friends have graciously forwarded on to us some financial gifts, so the verdict at this time is that we are still over the OB fuel budget by an additional $780.85.

So where is the third piece of good news in this? God didn't bring us this far, with an incredible summer of ministry training and experiences, to leave us short. I'm excited to see how God is going to meet this need and bring more glory to Himself (Matt. 5:16).

That's three good things in one day.

WOW

2008-08-06T13:21:00.004-05:00

Wow is not a very academic word. Quite descriptive in nature though. As I think about the unfolding of this summer, WOW is probably the best word to use.

I can say that as I have seen what TNI students have done in their internships, the accomplishments of 99 teens and 16 adult leaders on the four Operation Barnabas teams, the results of the two Momentum conferences, and even our involvement at the FGBC conference in Florida this past week--the word of the month has to be WOW.

While there was a lot of human preparation and planning for these events, the way God moved in unique ways was amazing. Seeing youth group members get right with each other and confess to God and one another during a feet washing opportunity on Friday night was a sight to behold. When there is confession and a CHANGE--that's REVIVAL. While it didn't show up on the stage with everyone looking on --it was going on in individual youth groups.

At the two conferences, teens and adults gave over $125,000 to assist the poor and needy of this world. Wow. I have never seen that before. And lest someone think that all we are saying is that we can free our guilty consciences of the needy in the world by giving some money and moving on--well, they weren't a part of the Momentum conference and didn't pay attention.
Out West, all wre a part of a rally for the homeless at Skid row in LA. That changed a lot of peoples perspective. Over 1500 people left Cedarville University on the Friday to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the greater Dayton area. They learned throughout the week, gave (some gave everything they had with them), and then went and served. 300 stayed on campus to pray and prepare meals that are for Feed My Starving Children with the foods being distributed in either Nicaragua or Haiti. They were Jesus to a lot of people. I feel sorry for those who missed out on seeking
(Side note: God has done incredible things at these two Momentum conferences. Encouraging people to be a part of these is not self-serving--it is an invitation to all to join in and see God at work in hearts and lives. Don't miss out.)

Teens will understand all of this more than we adults do. II Corinthians 8:13-18 is a humbling passage. I am impressed with the teens who are now home (after OB, after Momentum) and are continuing to serve the needy in the name of Jesus. I have heard countless stories of teens praying with people after serving them. One group, the weekend they returned home, headed to Washington DC to feed the homeless on Sunday night. Our youth group at Community Grace today partnered with the Salvation Army and Combined Community Services to put on a carnival and supply school goods for the financially needy. Individuals from these groups will understand the statements from the Lord that are recorded at the end of Matthew 25 while others have to hear "go away into eternal punishment".

Wow.

Best Week of the Year

2008-07-16T12:38:00.002-05:00

Well, here it is. The week before the Momentum conference--the largest annual FGBC event each year and everyone has a million things to do in the CE National office. Big picture things, little details...all of them important. I'm glad we have a staff that is not too busy to pray. That was a fun staff meeting this week--praying very specifically for God to work in this huge conference and ministry.

But while we have bunches of details--from displays, to We Care Dayton, to OB debriefing to getting OBers home, to speaking preparations--this is the best week of the year. It is a fabulous week to watch Operation Barnabas teens display that they "get it". There has been a long orientation, four weeks plus of ministry and now is the time when the adult leaders get to sit back and watch the teens do it--just about all on their own. If we adults have done our jobs well, then the adult leaders' (they are not chaperons) biggest responsibility is getting the bus and the luggage trucks where they need to be and getting out of the way and letting the teens serve and minister to people.

Of course, there are the nay-sayers. I guess I have become accustomed to the negative, unhappy people of this world having belittling comments talking about the exceptions to the rule I have just mentioned. First off, what a lousy way to live. Secondly, in my next blog I'll share a story of an OB gal who didn't maybe show she "got it" when she was on her OB tour--but her life is showing that she certainly got it and she continues to live that way...

But before I write my next blog, I'm just going to sit back and enjoy this "best week of the year" While I pack boxes and prepare for the busiest week of the year.

PS- I have been asked how we are doing with fuel budget for OB. I don't have exact figures yet--and won't until after the tours are over July 30. I do know that with some of the gifts that have been given it is going to be close! Appreciate the prayers and the gifts!

Givers and Takers

2008-07-03T19:18:00.002-05:00

Simply enough, I believe that there are two kinds of people in the world: (If this were a joke, it would be that there are three kinds of people in the world--those who can count and those who can't... but I digress...;-)) The two kinds of people are givers and takers.

As I think back over the last few weeks of Operation Barnabas and the Mo West conference that CE National put on, I see people who give and invest of themselves and their resources for the benefit of others.

Ed Lewis probably leads the way as he thinks of himself last. He probably should think of himself first once in a while as he agrees to help just about anybody who needs it.

Tim and Janine Lansing make OB orientation a delight at Norwalk GBC. And they help get our family of four into Disneyland by their contacts and then meet us for dinner--and pay for it--the stinkers.

Nina and Stella--cooked for 110 people for over a week--during their vacation.

My grandmother Eve--hears that the OB fuel fund is hurting this summer as $4.99 a gallon for diesel has impacted the budget. She wasn't asked to give a financial gift. But she heard about the need and prayed what amount she should give. And then she did what the Spirit of God told her to do and wrote a check to help meet the need.

One particular church heard about this same need. I won't embarrass Western Reserve Grace Brethren Church in Ohio by telling you who it was--but they gave a generous financial gift to help too.

Our OB and OBI leaders are incredible. I wish more people would get to know these servants who are not chaperones. We don't need those as our OB teens are solid young men and women. But they do need good adult LEADERS and this set is unbelievable. They are GIVERS and could never be thanked enough by parents, teens, and churches.

Amy Kendrick is one of those OB leaders again this summer. Doing another great job. Her car is not being used when she is on tour--so she is allowing our family and CE National to use her car in So Cal at no cost while she is away.

Givers. Takers.

I have a statement I use all of the time: "The mark of a mature believer in Christ is that they have a thankful spirit." It is because it is about Jesus first, others second and then themselves last. I guess that is just another way of giving.

This Day has been Highlighted

2008-06-29T19:50:00.003-05:00

As coach of an athletic team, you know that there are dates and games that are more significant than others for your team. As the Director of Operation Barnabas, there are certain days that are also "fixed" on the calendar. Today had the potential to be a great day or the potential to be disastrous. PTL, it has been a great day!

The Midwest Team was in San Diego for the Sunday am service at the Grace Brethren Church. That went well from the reports I heard and then they headed into the desert over some big mountains and into 113 degree heat. The Mexican border patrol stopped the team from crossing for a while, but that was prayed through and they are now in Mexicali getting ready for their two day s of ministry there at the seminary. (Anyone following the MW team and looking for photos and e-mails: Don't panic when you don't see any posts from them. The last team had a hard time getting any computer connection. So just figure that no news is good news for the next few days :-))

The Continental team had a terrific time with the Native American Fellowship Church this morning in Gallup NM and have now traveled past Albuquerque and are already on their way to Colorado Springs. They have had good weather, no bus issues, and should be in by midnight.

The Mid America team had the "toughest" drive today. Up route 17 from Phoenix to Flagstaff. This could have killed this teams summer ministry. But they made it while only having to pull over one time to let the bus cool down! They are on their way to Albuquerque, NM where the temp this afternoon was just 83 degrees.

SO we could have had disaster on three fronts. But people are praying, students are "getting it" ,and they are also being stretched.

It has been a day that has been "marked" on my calendar for a long time--and it has been a wonderful day. Looking forward to seeing how God uses these three domestic teams in incredible ways.

OBI Safely in Cameroon

2008-06-28T20:24:00.002-05:00

Well it has been quite a day... All four Ob teams are now on the road. We have now heard the following news:

OBI made it all the way to Cameroon--relatively on time and with all of their luggage! Numbers of people praying about that. Let's pray that they have an incredible ministry there.

The real OBI excitement was a bit earlier in the week. Of the ten students and one leader, there were only 7 visas in hand. Not a good number. This was as of Thursday and the team was scheduled to leave on Friday night from Detroit. So lots of prayer went into that. And the team all had visas in hand by 11am for their 7pm flight. What may have been seen as a negative drove these students to their knees--and that is a positive. They didn't know who the four were who were "without" and that may have caused even more fervent prayer!

And now we have a domestic team in Gallup NM, one in Phoenix, and one in San Diego. Time to pray that much harder as these 89 teens and 15 adult leaders are set to travel some long miles in blazing Southwest heat. One to Colorado, one to Albequerque and one to Mexicali, Mexico. I may be between 110 and 120 tomorrow. Time to pray again.

Thanks for all prayers and they are appreciated! Pray that God would work in incredible ways in and through these teens!

Next post I'll share a couple incredible stories from when we were all at Skid Row in LA last Wednesday...

What a Great Week It Has Been

2008-06-18T19:52:00.003-05:00

It is really enjoyable to work with great team of people who love Jesus and are diligent with regard to their responsibilities as well as building relationships with you. I am so thankful for a tremendous group of adult leaders on OB 2008.

It has been an outstanding week of orientation on Operation Barnabas and it is evident that many parents, siblings, and friends have been praying for these 105 teens and adult leaders. Teams have formed well as they were announced on Monday. That is always a fun time--where teens figure out on which team they will be serving. They also settle in a little more and are able to start developing relationships.

The first days of orientation focus upon choir practice, evangelism training, and spiritually challenging the teens. It was a growing experience as these teens have been hearing and applying God's truth. Neat to see people respond to the truth of God's Word.

Now is crunch time. Each team is learning a dozen puppet songs, a dozen dramas, six pantomimes and six clowning skits to learn by Friday night. And we really started working on this on Tuesday. So the pressure is on and this group is responding well!

In my last blog I asked people to pray for our teens. And I have been called, e-mailed, and had messages posted on this blog that we are being remembered diligently in prayer--not just for safety and health, but for spiritual renewal and impact. And it is working. thanks for all those participating with this ministry team in that way.

I still need everybody to pray about those diesel prices coming down or for generous contributions to take care of sending six vehicles back across the country...

Day One

2008-06-14T00:07:00.002-05:00

What a fantastic start. Day one of Operation Barnabas each summer is always an exciting time as teens travel from all over the country and the world to be trained and practice ministry in hopes of going home and continuing this mind set.

We now have all of the teens (except for the four who are getting picked up in the next hour or so). Some of these teens have been up for over 24 hours and are now sound asleep--totally whooped. They have came with a great spirit and have been totally enjoyable to be around.

Operation Barnabas is the largest equipping ministry in the entire Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches, no holds barred. People outside of the FGBC are now interested in participating in OB and I couldn't be more pleased. Ministry training and equipping does not know the bounds of denominations and it is needed now more than ever.

This is the 35th year of training OB teens and the total of young people involved through the years is now over 3,000. You can trace a lot of pastors, missionaries, para-church and church leaders to involvement in OB.

I honestly believe this is the greatest summer opportunity any teen who is seeking God could participate in. I credit families for their courage in allowing their teen to participate and be away from them for 7 weeks. And I feel sorry for too many people who think this is just a "nice thing" for some teens to do when the entire program is focused on ministry, servant-leadership, and evangelism--three concepts that most churches I know need desperately.

100 teens sharing their faith all summer and learning to put others before self? That deserves some attention and needs more press from those who can write and publish anything about it!

Bathed

2008-06-12T10:08:00.002-05:00

Getting washed up every day on an OB tour is a big deal. 30 teens and the group of adult leaders are usually sweating like crazy most hours everyday they are on tour. So getting clean each day is a pretty high priority –even if it is more for the people with whom we coming in contact than for the team itself!

But the concept of “bathing” that runs through my mind today is of a completely different thought process. In the last week, I have received word that as we had seven adult leaders drive two school buses from Indiana to CA, we have been bathed in prayer—maybe more than at any time in the 35 year history of Operation Barnabas.

So what happened? Absolutely nothing. No breakdowns, no slow downs, no accidents, no illness. Nothing. Two buses and over 2200 miles each with six drivers. And they made it in 48 and a half hours. THAT is a HUGE answer to prayer. I should not be surprised with as many people praying for this as there were. But I always am!

So now I am starting another prayer campaign and I am asking for your help: we have three teams traveling from CA to Ohio the rest of this summer and we need all of the things to happen just like they did on the trip out.

Will you please join me and commit to praying for these teams, leaders, and their experiences? Post a comment, e-mail me, text me. Let me know you are praying and I will pass it on.

Many thanks! Next time I make a request for OB travel—it might be for a donation so that we can afford the diesel fuel to get to Ohio… ;-)

An Encouraging Trip

2008-05-30T10:06:00.002-05:00

A couple weekends ago, I went to the CE National spring board meetings in Washington DC. Good meetings where some really good things were discussed. My report, which did not need to be long, was over and done with and I fulfilled my role as official note-taker for the weekend. Some might remember the visit to the White House as the highlight of the trip (George and Laura said to say hi). That was very cool--especially for a history buff like me. But I'll remember seeing Hyla at a church we visited as a highlight.

National Community Church has a very cool concept--multiple locations and use of video-- and we wanted to check it out. As we met in the basement of the Ebenezer coffee shop the church owns we enjoyed a great service. That's when Hyla came up (okay--charged up) to say hello. How random to have people she knows from IN walk into her cutting-edge church in DC on a Saturday night? Hyla was on OB in 1995 and was on my So Cal team. Nice gal from Western PA with a great smile and a positive spirit.

It was an absolute refreshment to hear her story: been in DC for about three years now and very involved with the church. In fact, if I caught it right, she is one of the main teachers in the small groups/teaching program at the church. Faithfully serving God where she is at and making a difference.

After being involved with teens for a long period of time like I have, what is refreshing is when you see a teen with which you have worked following Jesus and then taking positive roles in ministry for the good of the kingdom.

So while seeing George and Laura's house, at least the downstairs, was something I have always wanted to do, that weekend will serve a great encouragement going into this summer of ministry.

Mother's Day

2008-05-09T14:42:00.002-05:00

This Sunday is Mother's Day so I should write about that. But my mom doesn't read my blog so, technically, I guess I don't need to.

The youth pastor at our church and I have been talking about developing a student leadership program. It has been fun talking through what things would be good outcomes, how to implement it, etc. The thing that always stands out to me in these discussions is that the Christ-like quality that I want students to walk away with is that Jesus, and good leaders, are first and foremost servants. A lot of teaching that I do in leadership development centers on this important concept.

The more I think about it, the more grateful I am for my wife, Dana, who does lots and lots of "behind the scenes" stuff --at home, at church, at Warsaw Christian School. I am grateful for my mom. She has modeled "putting others before self" my whole life--and probably a lot longer than that. While cards are nice and flowers and candy is a good idea, (not to mention the cold toast and soggy cereal Dana had to eat each Mother's day morning as part of the special things that happen that day...) I think heaven will reveal that there are a lot of mom's who get special crowns and gifts--and they will be people that the majority of us have never heard of before.

So, see, this blog did eventually get back around to mother's day... some of the best examples of servants I know.

Blast From the Past

2008-04-30T08:04:00.002-05:00

Wow. Just saw a post on the blog from a long time friend. We usually are in touch regularly--like clock-work: probably every 3-5 years... I am looking forward to talking on the phone with him.

Robert and I became friends in Kindergarten. Looking back on it, I'm not sure we had or have that much in common--not really sports, or music, or business, etc. but Robert will always be my friend.

It was Robert who gave me tickets back in 1988 to go see Manhattan Transfer, the vocalese group, because he knew I thought they were good. (Just shows how generous he is and maybe that is why we are friends: he is generous and I am willing to let him be :-) ) God used Robert to make me ask Dana out on our first date. I don't know if I would have asked her out if he hadn't given me two tickets to the concert. That was August 13, 1988.

Loyalty is an interesting concept. Been thinking about that quite a bit lately--from friends being dismissed from jobs and other friends just doing their own thing. I would like to think I am a loyal person. It is a different age and I understand that--but it doesn't mean I need to like it either.

So I got a post and a voice mail from Robert that was an encouragement to my heart and I guess the good Lord knew I needed that this week. Good thing He is always loyal and dependable...

Age Check

2008-04-22T13:20:00.003-05:00

Just thought about this after I talked with a TNI student and friend...
There are times in our lives when all of a sudden, we feel old. It is a matter of perspective.

Well, here is my announcement that may make you scratch your head just for a second and then you may need to take a while to get a grip on it:

Our daughter, Bekah, is now driving a car. She got her permit last week and is in driving school. Yes, that is little Bekah who most remember because of OB and youth conferences. She is now DRIVING.

The importance of investing in the next generation is really important and takes on new meaning when you realize how quickly that next generation comes about!

A Teen Showing More Maturity Than Adults

2008-03-31T10:29:00.005-05:00

Was intrigued with the Nickelodeon Kids Awards this past weekend. Specifically Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray's daughter. For anyone even remotely paying attention to what is popular in tween culture, Hannah Montana is as big as it gets. Thousands of dollars being forked over by parents this past year for tickets to her concerts. It was THE hot ticket of the year.

So in winning her award , she thanked the usual people--the ones giving out the award and her family and all her other folks. But very specifically, she thanked her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Hmmmm. Not the usual "I thank God" which I am sure He appreciates in a civil religion kind of way... But a very specific "my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." That can't be popular with some folks. It is my hope that Miley has a real hope and it goes far beyond having a wildly popular show on TV and top ten songs.

In her regular everyday life (which I can't imagine being very much like a regular every day life for anyone else I know) this young lady verbalizes her faith and uses "God talk. " It is evidently who she is and she isn't ashamed of it. And most adults I know are afraid to open their mouths with friends and co-workers who already like them. Sometimes it takes a tweenybopper to set a positive example.

Way to go Miley. I am a fan. And I don't even know any of the words to the songs you sing.

He is Risen!

2008-03-21T12:58:00.003-05:00

It is Good Friday. And that reminds me of one of our "family stories".

A few years ago, we were trying to teach our children about the tradition that when someone says, "He is risen", the response from those who know Jesus is "He is risen, indeed!"

We were employing a questioning style of teaching to help our children learn this concept, so we asked, "Do you know what to say when someone says, 'He is risen!' ?"
This was all brand new for 8 year old Nick, who knew that it was good news that Jesus died and rose again, but he had never heard of the traditional response.
So he came up with his own: "He is rise, yeah!"

That is still one of your family's favorite stories. And this Sunday , when someone at church says, "He is risen!" My response is going to be "Yeah!" because that really is the heart of the matter and even an 8 year old can understand it.

But I probably will only say "yeah"on the inside rather than out loud to avoid any confusion...

It Was a Very Good Day

2008-03-17T11:52:00.003-05:00

CE National has been sponsoring Operation Barnabas teams for the past 35 years with over 2400 alumni. And these groups will often have reunions after their summer ministry experience.

Over 30 Operation Barnabas alums gathered in Winona Lake over the weekend to reminisce and renew friendships that began last summer. And I was impressed. The impressive part was not that the group gathered. the impressive part was not that they have close friendships. The impressive part was not that they have matching shirts and sweatshirts.

What impressed me was their ministry focus on Sunday morning. I had not been with any of the teens previously over the weekend because of previous responsibilities and commitments. But I saw and heard them in action on Sunday morning in both youth Sunday School as well as in the morning worship service at Community Grace in Warsaw.

One of our adult leaders this summer, Stacie, led a study on Noah and 8-10 OBers shared difficult things that they have been going through and growing through. The hardest situations had been refining these young people to be more like Noah-- a person of faith. I can often think that if my life is going easily--then that is a good thing. It was a solid reminder to me by these teenagers that when there are difficult times (and there will be difficult times) that is when God is shaping, refining and growing us the most--if we let Him.

In the am service, they helped lead some worship songs in a choir formation. But they initiated conversation before the service, during the "meet and greet" part of the morning, and after the celebration as well. Well done. Leaders initiate and spiritual leaders initiate and bring the discussion to eternal things. Very well done.

So I could care less that the team didn't do the entire Sunday morning service. No puppets, no mimes. Not even matching outfits, even though they did get to ride the blue bus to church that morning... What was such an encouragement was seeing many of these young people actively following Jesus and initiating and impacting others.

As one OB alum stated: “OB tours have ended, but the ministry of Operation Barnabas continues on.”

It was a very good day.

My Attitude

2008-03-14T17:28:00.002-05:00

It still amazes me. I've lived now in Indiana for over 12 years, and I am still surprised at the difference in people's attitudes as soon as it starts to feel even just a little like spring! The warmth, the sun, the neighbors even come out of theri houses for the first time in 4 months...

I know that something so simple as the weather should not control my feelings and attitudes. I want to be the kind of person who rises above circumstances and experiences real joy that is talked about in the book of Philippians.

I guess I have some more maturing and growing up to do because the last two sunny, spring-like days here in northern Indiana have me feeling like I don't have a care in the world!

One Great Class Period

2008-02-29T11:51:00.002-05:00

I was privileged to lead Grace College’s Religious Studies Senior Seminar classes this week by virtue of overseeing the school’s youth ministry courses. Here's what we did in Tuesday’s class period:

I shared about the concept of “living the Word out” rather than just hearing the ideas. We looked at James 1:22 – and that real Biblical knowledge is not just the mental understanding of the truth. We talked about all three aspects of real knowledge—knowing, doing, and being. We read the story of the Good Samaritan and discussed the concept that we are to do good and love even our enemies. We then went to James 1:26-27 and talked over the issue that not only are we to love and do good to our enemies—but also to the forgotten and overlooked.

I then told them a story I had heard for my father when he was a student at Grace College and Seminary in the '50s. Dr. McClain was leading chapel that day and began by reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-5. He stopped after the phrase “a time to cast away stones and a time to gather stones.” He closed his Bible, and said, “Gentlemen, today is that day!” He then proceeded to cancel classes for the rest of the day, sent everyone home to change clothes, and then the student body cleared the area that is now the campus green/lawn in front of McClain Hall!

After reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-5, and telling the class that story, I said, “Well, Ladies and Gentleman, for us, ‘today is that day.’ Last night and this morning, Winona Lake has been hit with 8-12 inches of snow. I have a map of some widows and elderly people right here in Winona Lake and we are going to go and shovel their driveways and sidewalks. We are then going to pray either with or for them because really understanding the Bible only starts with knowledge but continues on to impact our character, as well as what we do with our actions.”

So that neat group of students, with wonderful attitudes, cleared eight homes in about 50 minutes. We gathered back together, talked about the ministry concept described at the end of Matthew 25 and closed in prayer.

While having Dr. McClain share his words with the class would be been the thrill of a lifetime, something tells me that all of us will remember Tuesday’s class because we discussed and then lived out a biblical truth.

Real understanding only starts with knowledge, but must lead to action and the development of our character to be more like Christ’s.

Random Thoughts

2008-02-25T15:05:00.003-05:00

A few random thoughts that have struck me over the past few days:

Shared experiences with teens on a weekend retreat are life changing--for the teens and for the adults.
God's timing--whether that is for the formation of an Operation Barnabas leadership team or something else--really is best.
Weather in Indiana does not compare to the weather in California.
God did an amazing job making our bodies with an ability to heal.
I'm grateful that I never had a serious injury playing soccer those many years ago.
I'm not so grateful for pictures of Arsenal's Eduardo breaking his leg on Saturday. That is probably the grossest thing I have ever seen...
The book of Romans is incredible. What an argument. What a reality.
After the guts of Indiana University and its show of integrity with its basketball program--I am now a fan. Go Hoosiers! (Until you play UCLA...)
I like being with my wife and kids.
I'm grateful for parents who provided for me and supported me.
The older I am becoming, the more I am getting excited about heaven and less about what's on this earth.
It sure is fun to laugh.
How much in this world really should be taken that seriously?
I worry around people who say they are Christians but don't take those few things VERY seriously.

Told you it was a random list.

Happy Birthday

2008-02-20T15:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday. To Bekah, not to me. Our daughter just turned 15 yesterday. Rather than feeling "old" by thinking about this milestone, it really provided me with two different emotions:

One emotion is gratitute.
I remember when she was born. They give children a rating on a scale--I think they call it an Apgard test, or something like that. She was top of the charts. But the day didn't start that way. Dana had a high fever and Bekah was under "stress" (who wasn't that day...) so they went and got her by C-section. I don't think I will ever forget being robed up and waiting to go into the surgical center. At that moment I remember thinking: The kind of car that I drive doesn't matter. The house I live in doesn't matter. The clothes I wear don't matter. Even my job really doesn't matter. At this moment, the only things that matter are Jesus and my wife and child. Simple. And then my dad came in and we prayed together and Bekah began her 15 year journey. Bekah is a good girl and is making good choices. I am grateful.

I am also excited. One year from now, Bekah will be able to drive a car. Not only do we know this will free up our time in driving Nick and Bekah everywhere under the sun, but it will be another step forward in her maturing and taking responsibility. As I look around, I get the idea that most parents dread seeing their children become more independent and not need them as much. Dana and I have always felt the opposite. Our job is to work our way to of a job.

It may be easy to misread that last section and not completely understand what I mean. We enjoy being together as a family--in fact, it is one of our favorite things. But there is a difference between wanting to spend time together and needing to. Our desire is to help equip Nick and Bekah to fear God and become wise in decision making without us--because we have taught them how. It was a long time ago that we came to the conclusion that we would probably not live near our children when they became adults or our grandchildren because of ministry they will be called to by God. And we are okay with that. We've been preparing for that since day one.

So grateful and excited. Not a bad combination. Talk to me next year and let's see if I still feel the same way...

Highlights from My Latest Trip West…

2008-02-06T09:25:00.000-05:00

Got in late to LA on Thursday night after too many delays at airports. But at least it wasn’t -7 degrees either…

Attended Fellowship Council meetings on Friday and enjoyed seeing pastors and representatives from the FGBC. It was good to hear the reports from Grace College, Tim Boal and church planting ministries, GBIM, as well as being able to share about the direction of CE National ministries.

Saturday was a day of enjoyable meetings with donors to the ministry of CE National. Always a blessing to be able to share how God is using their investments for eternal dividends. Also had a great morning with Tim and Janine and Baby Lansing (who is scheduled any day now to make his appearance) talking about Operation Barnabas orientation being hosted so graciously by the GBC in Norwalk this June.

Got to preach on Sunday morning at the church I grew up at. That’s always a thrill—to be able to share from God’s Word, as well as thank that body of believers for building into my life and giving me opportunities that not very many places would or should have given me!

Had lunch with some of the church fam at Po’ Folks in Buena Park (highly recommend a visit if you are in the area). It was a wonderful time of sharing and being encouraged.

Sunday night was the annual So Cal CE National Celebration. Had about 100 of us rejoicing through song, testimony, more stories, and video. Always a great time for everyone to see each other and celebrate God’s goodness and blessings. Specifics were shared about the impact of last year’s Momentum conference and share about this year’s plans. Same with OB, TNI and Urban Hope Training Center too. Also, prayed for Oscar, who was there that evening, and ask God to bless him as he participates on OB this summer.

Monday through Wednesday was Focus retreat. Best part: Going out with two elders from a local church and talking and building relationships with people in the community. We went to Dana Point and had two incredible conversations: one with a lady who has just begun attending a church where she will hear the gospel. Also, with a shop owner who just came to faith in Christ 8 weeks ago. Tremendous.

Remarked one of the guys I was with: “ I never talk to people I don’t know. But I should. And this was good today.” Awesome. It was like a light came on. And these gentlemen got to do for a day what we do on Operation Barnabas all summer long!

Returned home safely on Thursday—just as the weather got nice in So Cal and there was a winter advisory for Northern Indiana..

Praise God for great opportunities!

True Champions

2008-02-04T11:20:00.000-05:00

Grace and class are important attributes to a true champion. It was evident, once again, to me as I listened to the head coach of the now 18-1 New England Patriots answer questions after the team's first Super Bowl loss. With every answer given, it became more evident why it sounded like there were far more Giants fans in the University of Phoenix stadium last night than Pats fans.

Each answer was short and terse. I almost felt sorry for such a man who gives these kinds of replies. No wonder his wife and he would split up. I would think my wife would leave me if I answered questions in such a way. No words of congratulations to the other team. I'm trying to think of the last time a losing coach has not even mentioned congrats to the other team in a TV interview.

Maybe it is "everyone is against our team." Maybe we don't like to see perfect records (except the '72 Dolphins--and yes that was a shout-out to my good friend Stacie...). But my gut tells me that if the Colts were going for victory number 19, there would be a whole lot more people cheering for that to happen than I have heard about people siding with the Pats this year.

Maybe it is something about leadership. I can't imagine Tony Dungy acting with anything but class--even after a devastating loss. Nor Lovie Smith. And I am sure a number of other coaches. (I'm not too quick to put the former Atlanta Falcon's coach, Rick Majerius, or Rich Rodriguez in this list though...) Coach John Wooden of UCLA fame may head the list of gracious men...

I don't think this is about personality either. I don't care that Coach B is guarded and analytical and too much a part of the No Fun League. Some may not agree with me. That's okay. But surly is another thing.

I do feel sorry for the those on the Pats team who well may be men of character. But their leader hurt their credibility without them even getting to say a word.

I believe character won last night. Or maybe better put: a lack of character was displayed one more time by the losing team for all the world to see.

An Anniversary

2008-01-22T17:34:00.000-05:00

Well, from what I have gathered, today is an anniversary. I usually think of that word and associate it with a positive thing. But not this one.

I have been told that Roe v Wade was decided on this date back in the early 70's. What a tragic decision that has impacted so many--babies, certainly, but also women, men, and society at large. It is a dark day in the course of American history.

Not a long blog today. But just one final thought: as an adopted kid, born in 1962, I sure am glad that I am not twelve or so years younger. I'm glad to be alive. But there are millions after Roe v Wade that can't say the same thing today. In fact, they can't say anything at all.

A New and Stretching Experience

2008-01-15T15:09:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was a first. I've always gotten to do a lot of public speaking--from 6 periods a day for 180 days with 9th graders for ten years, to numerous camps, retreats, churches, youth groups, sports banquets, CE banquets, and more. But this past weekend was a new one.

There are about a dozen churches in Ohio who have a winter retreat at the Kalahari Resort water park--the largest in the world--for over 600 students. I have spoken to groups of over 2500, but not over the course of three sessions. It was a different dynamic--where I could build from one session to the next--and while exhausting and stretching--it was very enjoyable.

I am grateful that there were 7 first time decisions to follow Jesus from one youth group. I haven't heard the results from any other groups yet. But God is in charge of all of that anyway. It was very enjoyable to share the gospel in different ways.

I guess the thing I am pleased with is that I took a chance. It was the first time doing that many sessions within 24 hours with a large group. It was in the middle of a crazy busy January/February travel schedule, a week long youth ministry module, trips to CA, starting a new youth ministry class, helping to host a professional youth workers conference here at CE National, and new preps. I always am reminded of a point of a teaching time that I do every once in a while with students: "When was the last time I attempted the difficult just to stay in shape?" I am grateful that this time I pushed myself. The verses the Lord gave me were from Joshua--and I read them over and over in numerous chapters from the book: "Be bold and courageous." So I took a chance, knew He would give strength and energy, and He came through again. Just like He always does. Now I am ready for a nap...

Brio Girl 2008

2007-12-20T13:35:00.000-05:00

Brio magazine is produced by Focus on the Family for teenage girls. In the latest issue (January, 2008) that showed up in our mailbox yesterday (addressed to Bekah in case you were worried or wondering…) the front cover has a large photo of the 2008 Brio Girl.

The young lady selected is Becky Marras, a senior from Medina, OH, who was on Operation Barnabas in 2006 and has been a regular attender at CE National’s Momentum youth conference. It’s really neat so see a young lady whom we know picked for this award and that she continues to live for Jesus.

Another neat thing is the way the full-page article starts about Becky. On page 35 it says,
“Last summer, 17-year old Becky spent six weeks on a missions trip in Los Angeles and Washington state. ‘It was totally hard-core missions, and it really directed my focus of where I want to serve Christ,’ this Highland High School student says.” There are also three good size photos of Becky. Very special that the whole article starts by talking about her OB experience and the continued impact it has had on her life.

I don’t usually buy Brio magazine, but I’m going to get a copy of this issue ;-). I looked on line and they don’t have the info up yet. They do have info about the 8 finalists, but hopefully they will get this issue’s info up soon.

I appreciate Becky's Operation Barnabas leaders who definitely made an impact on her life. And many thanks to all the OB leaders who have poured themselves into students lives who may not be as celebrated, but continue to make a difference for the kingdom.