I am currently reading 15 Characteristics of Effective Pastors by Kevin Mannoia and Larry Walkemeyer. Here is one the best lines so far and really so true.
"A person is not old until their memories are more important than their dreams." Unknown
I think it is easy to fall into a "living in yesterday" mindset. Life is so filled with challenges and opportunities that sometimes just reliving the past seems good enough because dreaming and diving into a new future is just so much work.
But I guess that is where you have to commit to a life that moves forward. A commitment to grow in spite of difficulties, letdowns, and heartache. You can face life in three ways.
1. Escape - which is the most tempting and often our first choice. We would rather run from the problem lest the pain increase. This may seem like the safest path but unaddressed issues in your life leave you wounded and filled with despair.
2. Management - Holding the problem at distance while trying to avoid getting too close to the mess. This method keeps your heart from engaging with pain, disappointment or betrayal.
3. Growth - This method embraces the trail with the help of God's grace. You begin asking questions like "How can I bring glory to the Lord through this?" "How is God going to shape me and prepare me to survive this?" How will I use this to help others who may be walking a similar road?"
When you try to escape, the dream in you dies. When you try the management method you are so busy resisting and avoiding that you cannot dream. When you choose growth, you commit to believing that all things are possible regardless of what you see or feel.
Those are tough questions to ask but they lead us to the Word and there we find the words to help us in whatever season we may find ourselves in.
By choosing "growth", we move forward. And that is the only way to live.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Pastor's Prayer Partners
I am blessed to serve as pastor at a church where almost every day of the month someone from my congregation takes time to call me, check on me, and pray for me. They are called PPP – Pastor’s Prayer Partners.
This morning, I was especially encouraged when one of my partners called from the road (truck driver). He has been very busy as of late but almost every month without fail remembers to call and check on me and my family. Today he called and WOW what an impact it has had on my day. I think it is worth sharing.
1. He told me how much he loved his pastor and his family. Now I believe I am truly loved by all of my church family (okay, maybe not all) but I deeply sensed in his voice his sincerity. I told my wife “we have plenty of people that love us and that we love, but too often we all get too busy to share love from the heart.”
2. He prayed for me and my family. As a pastor, as a partner, and as a friend. I know my mom and dad pray for me. I know my wife prays for me. I know there are a few others that take the time to pray for me. But how great it is to know that people are covering my life and my family with prayer.
My prayer partners will never know the impact they are having on my life. I am grateful for them and honored to serve them.
This morning, I was especially encouraged when one of my partners called from the road (truck driver). He has been very busy as of late but almost every month without fail remembers to call and check on me and my family. Today he called and WOW what an impact it has had on my day. I think it is worth sharing.
1. He told me how much he loved his pastor and his family. Now I believe I am truly loved by all of my church family (okay, maybe not all) but I deeply sensed in his voice his sincerity. I told my wife “we have plenty of people that love us and that we love, but too often we all get too busy to share love from the heart.”
2. He prayed for me and my family. As a pastor, as a partner, and as a friend. I know my mom and dad pray for me. I know my wife prays for me. I know there are a few others that take the time to pray for me. But how great it is to know that people are covering my life and my family with prayer.
My prayer partners will never know the impact they are having on my life. I am grateful for them and honored to serve them.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Sheffield's 50th Anniversary
It has been awhile since my last post. But this weekend has given me something to write about.
I have privilege of pastoring the Sheffield Church of God in Sheffield, OH and this weekend the church celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Quite a tribute to some great people persevering through some hard times and committed to making a difference in the lives of people in Lorain County.
We were blessed to have our Administrative Bishop particpate in the weekend along with former pastor Byron and Frankie Powers and Lee Kincaid, the first first lady of this great church. We were also blessed to have our only charter member Bennie Sherrill in attendance.
In order for our church to survive the next 50 years there are some things we must embrace.
1. A person will never be satisfied until they embrace the simplicity and comprehensiveness of the great commission and the great Commissioner.
2. The search for "something more" begins and ends with a passionate love for Jesus Christ
3 The Church is the hope of the world. We must continue to make a difference in the lives of people.
Today, three attenders accepted Christ as their Savior. How incredible and cool! Fifty years have past and heading into the next fifty years people are still finding Jesus @ Sheffield.
We contine to move forward!
I have privilege of pastoring the Sheffield Church of God in Sheffield, OH and this weekend the church celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Quite a tribute to some great people persevering through some hard times and committed to making a difference in the lives of people in Lorain County.
We were blessed to have our Administrative Bishop particpate in the weekend along with former pastor Byron and Frankie Powers and Lee Kincaid, the first first lady of this great church. We were also blessed to have our only charter member Bennie Sherrill in attendance.
In order for our church to survive the next 50 years there are some things we must embrace.
1. A person will never be satisfied until they embrace the simplicity and comprehensiveness of the great commission and the great Commissioner.
2. The search for "something more" begins and ends with a passionate love for Jesus Christ
3 The Church is the hope of the world. We must continue to make a difference in the lives of people.
Today, three attenders accepted Christ as their Savior. How incredible and cool! Fifty years have past and heading into the next fifty years people are still finding Jesus @ Sheffield.
We contine to move forward!
Monday, September 15, 2008
It is up to me
This has been a great day here in Fort Mill @ the Pastor's Conference that I am attending, hosted by Fort Mill Church of God, with special guest, Bryan Cutshall. I have learned so very much. Here is a recap.
1. I must continue to grow myself. - My life, my relationships, my church and the growth of all three are dependent on my commitment to growing myself. Reading, seminars, taking classes, and sitting under other leaders has to be a lifelong commitment. Learning must never cease.
2. I must commit to growing others. - I must make time to invest in the lives of the people God has entrusted me to lead. While I am growing, I must not house all that is shared with me. I must pour it into others.
3. I must maintain a healthy balance in my life. - I have to work as well as rest. I have to take time to be me. I will become unhealthy if I do otherwise.
I commit again today to moving forward! I have been reminded again today, "it's the only way to live!"
1. I must continue to grow myself. - My life, my relationships, my church and the growth of all three are dependent on my commitment to growing myself. Reading, seminars, taking classes, and sitting under other leaders has to be a lifelong commitment. Learning must never cease.
2. I must commit to growing others. - I must make time to invest in the lives of the people God has entrusted me to lead. While I am growing, I must not house all that is shared with me. I must pour it into others.
3. I must maintain a healthy balance in my life. - I have to work as well as rest. I have to take time to be me. I will become unhealthy if I do otherwise.
I commit again today to moving forward! I have been reminded again today, "it's the only way to live!"
Going Home
I am currently visiting Fort Mill, SC where I had the privilege to work for three years. I have enjoyed the opportunity to visit friends and be around my good friend and mentor, David Kemp.
I have been reminded of a couple of things concerning home and friends.
1. Everyone needs a home - I grew up in Simpsonville, SC but so much of me is still in Fort Mill. I was fortunate to build relationships in Fort Mill that are still in place today.
2. Everyone needs friends - Men especially are not very good at building lasting relationships. It was great to see friends that I haven't seen in a long time but feel as though we were together last week. I know if I called on them, they would be there. That is a comforting thought.
3. Everyone needs a home - Okay that is point number one. But let me talk about it some more. I have a wonderful place in Greer SC where my parents live and it always great to spend some time with them. It is certainly home.
I also have a home in Sheffield, OH, where I currently live and it is more than a house, it is home. The town of Sheffield has become a great place for me and my family. My church family is my family and the families of the community of very much a part of my life.
I am blessed today with many homes and many friends. I have been pleasantly reminded of God's goodnes in my life. I celebrate His blessings. I continue to move forward.
I have been reminded of a couple of things concerning home and friends.
1. Everyone needs a home - I grew up in Simpsonville, SC but so much of me is still in Fort Mill. I was fortunate to build relationships in Fort Mill that are still in place today.
2. Everyone needs friends - Men especially are not very good at building lasting relationships. It was great to see friends that I haven't seen in a long time but feel as though we were together last week. I know if I called on them, they would be there. That is a comforting thought.
3. Everyone needs a home - Okay that is point number one. But let me talk about it some more. I have a wonderful place in Greer SC where my parents live and it always great to spend some time with them. It is certainly home.
I also have a home in Sheffield, OH, where I currently live and it is more than a house, it is home. The town of Sheffield has become a great place for me and my family. My church family is my family and the families of the community of very much a part of my life.
I am blessed today with many homes and many friends. I have been pleasantly reminded of God's goodnes in my life. I celebrate His blessings. I continue to move forward.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Backup Quarterbacks
I love the developing story of backup quarterback Matt Cassel. The New England Patriots suffered a great loss Sunday when quarterback phenom, Tom Brady was injured during the game.
In comes Matt Cassel. Matt will be the starter for this Sunday's game against the Jets. Matt played his college football for the Southern California (USC) behind former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinhart. In college he only attempted 33 passes and you have to go all the way back to high school for his last start.
What can we learn from Matt Cassel?
1. Patience - What if Matt had given up on his dream to be starting NFL quarterback? We would be talking about someone else obviously. Sometimes it takes time for things to happen in life and the key to our success is patience.
2. Hard work - Matt kept himself in a position to be called upon for such a time as this. Hard work kept him on the team and the number two man. Proverbs tells us that a man who works hard will always have a job. Certainly proven to be true in this case.
3. Team player - All week he has tried to keep the emphasis off of himself on his team. He realizes his success will only happen when he works with the team. Lou Holtz (former South Carolina, Nortre Dame coach) says "There is only one letter difference in champ and chump. And that is the letter u." Matt is smart in focusing on team and not on self.
4. Readiness - Leaders have to be ready because they never know when they are going to be called upon. Backup quarterbacks are key positions and can often motivate a team through crisis. If you disagree, ask Tom Brady. He stepped in for an injured Drew Bledsoe and has led the Patriots to numerous playoff victories and several Super Bowl Championships.
These four concepts are vital to moving forward. I think many would agree that without them backwards seems to be more likely.
In comes Matt Cassel. Matt will be the starter for this Sunday's game against the Jets. Matt played his college football for the Southern California (USC) behind former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinhart. In college he only attempted 33 passes and you have to go all the way back to high school for his last start.
What can we learn from Matt Cassel?
1. Patience - What if Matt had given up on his dream to be starting NFL quarterback? We would be talking about someone else obviously. Sometimes it takes time for things to happen in life and the key to our success is patience.
2. Hard work - Matt kept himself in a position to be called upon for such a time as this. Hard work kept him on the team and the number two man. Proverbs tells us that a man who works hard will always have a job. Certainly proven to be true in this case.
3. Team player - All week he has tried to keep the emphasis off of himself on his team. He realizes his success will only happen when he works with the team. Lou Holtz (former South Carolina, Nortre Dame coach) says "There is only one letter difference in champ and chump. And that is the letter u." Matt is smart in focusing on team and not on self.
4. Readiness - Leaders have to be ready because they never know when they are going to be called upon. Backup quarterbacks are key positions and can often motivate a team through crisis. If you disagree, ask Tom Brady. He stepped in for an injured Drew Bledsoe and has led the Patriots to numerous playoff victories and several Super Bowl Championships.
These four concepts are vital to moving forward. I think many would agree that without them backwards seems to be more likely.
Monday, September 8, 2008
A look back at Sunday
Sheffield had a great day yesterday.
We are on day seven of our forty days of prayer and fasting and we are "Connecting" with God.
Here is a look back at my message, taken from 2 Chronicles 20
We are on day seven of our forty days of prayer and fasting and we are "Connecting" with God.
Here is a look back at my message, taken from 2 Chronicles 20
- Don't go with what you see - Some times our lives are filled with troubling evidence that it is over for us. That life will never be normal again. But don't go with what you see. God is at work and He is working for your good.
- Don't surrender to that which is bigger - Bigger doesn't mean better. It may feel your are surrounded and there is no way to victory, but whatever is surrounding you, remember, nothing can surround God. His omnipresence prevents that. So that means your enemy is the one that is surrounded.
- Don't be afraid to praise your way through the battle - Instead of talking about your dilemma, talk about God. It will change your attitude and it very well may change the outcome.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
8th Grade Football
It has started. My son, Christopher plays for the 8th grade team here in Sheffield and last night they kicked off their season. Unfortunately they lost 24-20 to Brooklyn. They played hard but ran out of gas late in the game. We only have 18 players. And it was 85 degrees. A lot of the kids play both sides of the ball.
As for Chris, time for a little bragging. He passed for three touchdowns (35 yards, 50 yards, 25 yards). He also had three carries for 16 yards. It was fun to watch.
I did learn that you can't work the yardage chains on the sideline while your son is playing. I was cheering loudly in the middle of enemy territory. It was tough and dangerous. I won't do that again.
As for Chris, time for a little bragging. He passed for three touchdowns (35 yards, 50 yards, 25 yards). He also had three carries for 16 yards. It was fun to watch.
I did learn that you can't work the yardage chains on the sideline while your son is playing. I was cheering loudly in the middle of enemy territory. It was tough and dangerous. I won't do that again.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
40 Days to Connect
Today begins our forty days of prayer and fasting @ Sheffield. It is an annual journey for us to draw close to God through prayer and the Word.
I anticipate a great season of prayer. As I look forward, I am convinced Sheffield is on the brink of so many wonderful things. No doubt the harvest is in front of us. And we are embracing it. We are preparing ourselves for God's plan and purpose in our lives.
We are asking questions like:
I anticipate a great season of prayer. As I look forward, I am convinced Sheffield is on the brink of so many wonderful things. No doubt the harvest is in front of us. And we are embracing it. We are preparing ourselves for God's plan and purpose in our lives.
We are asking questions like:
- What does God want from my life?
- What can I do to serve the Kingdom of God?
- Have I made myself available for Him to use?
Monday, September 1, 2008
Labor Day
Today has been very relaxing. I am still in my PJ's. Al'Lora and the kids went to Cedar Point and I did nothing. Okay, maybe nothing is stretching it a little. I mean, I did eat watermelon and watch College Football.
Speaking of College Football, maybe today felt so good because after week one, South Carolina is 1-0 and Clemson is 0-1. I will enjoy it while it lasts. I know as we go deep into the season that will change. Especially since the ACC is really weak this year. And there are four SEC teams in the top 10. Without a doubt the SEC is the best conference in college football.
Any way, back to Labor Day. My feet have been propped up in my recliner most of the day. I think that is what this day is for. I think I should be the poster boy for Labor Day. I have enjoyed it very much.
I hope you did.
Speaking of College Football, maybe today felt so good because after week one, South Carolina is 1-0 and Clemson is 0-1. I will enjoy it while it lasts. I know as we go deep into the season that will change. Especially since the ACC is really weak this year. And there are four SEC teams in the top 10. Without a doubt the SEC is the best conference in college football.
Any way, back to Labor Day. My feet have been propped up in my recliner most of the day. I think that is what this day is for. I think I should be the poster boy for Labor Day. I have enjoyed it very much.
I hope you did.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Last Saturday of August
As summer appears to be heading to an end, I look back to think of the fun things I have enjoyed.
The summer started off with both kids playing baseball/softball. I love watching them play. I remember my parents telling me "these are the best years of life" and I am starting to believe it. They bring Al'Lora and I so much joy.
We then headed south for my brother's wedding and my 20 year high school reunion. The wedding was beautiful and the reunion was more fun than I anticipated. I shocked a lot of old friends when they discovered my life as a minister and that I live near Cleveland, OH. Not what they expected. Not really what I expected if the truth is known. But just another proof that God has other plans that are often different from ours.
And then a couple of days in Alabama with Al'Lora's family. It was great. We spent a few days with her aging (but graceful) grandparents and landed on the shores of Lake Guntersville with her brother and the rest of the gang. A little fishing, a little swimming, and a little of doing nothing. It was just what I needed.
Finally, Al'Lora and I went to San Antonio, TX for our bi-annual church (COG International) assembly. We were able to catch up with some old friends and enjoy a couple of days to ourselves. If you have never been to San Antonio, it is truly a city you will want to visit.
It has been a great summer!
With fall staring us in the face, I stare back with optimism and confidence in what God has done so far this year and what He plans on doing next. Life is good. God is good.
I am sure challenges await me. Tough decisions are inevitable. And possibly a storm or two. But I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us (Phil 3:14).
So it is time to move forward!
The summer started off with both kids playing baseball/softball. I love watching them play. I remember my parents telling me "these are the best years of life" and I am starting to believe it. They bring Al'Lora and I so much joy.
We then headed south for my brother's wedding and my 20 year high school reunion. The wedding was beautiful and the reunion was more fun than I anticipated. I shocked a lot of old friends when they discovered my life as a minister and that I live near Cleveland, OH. Not what they expected. Not really what I expected if the truth is known. But just another proof that God has other plans that are often different from ours.
And then a couple of days in Alabama with Al'Lora's family. It was great. We spent a few days with her aging (but graceful) grandparents and landed on the shores of Lake Guntersville with her brother and the rest of the gang. A little fishing, a little swimming, and a little of doing nothing. It was just what I needed.
Finally, Al'Lora and I went to San Antonio, TX for our bi-annual church (COG International) assembly. We were able to catch up with some old friends and enjoy a couple of days to ourselves. If you have never been to San Antonio, it is truly a city you will want to visit.
It has been a great summer!
With fall staring us in the face, I stare back with optimism and confidence in what God has done so far this year and what He plans on doing next. Life is good. God is good.
I am sure challenges await me. Tough decisions are inevitable. And possibly a storm or two. But I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us (Phil 3:14).
So it is time to move forward!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
College Football
If you know me at all, you know where I am right now. I am in front of the plasma TV watching the University of South Carolina play football. It is that time of the year and I am loving it.
I am not sure how they will do in the toughest conference in America (that ought to get some comments) but I am predicting 9-3. I have to be realistic.
They aren't off to a good start in this opening quarter but I have faith. It is going to be a great season. Go Gamecocks!
I am not sure how they will do in the toughest conference in America (that ought to get some comments) but I am predicting 9-3. I have to be realistic.
They aren't off to a good start in this opening quarter but I have faith. It is going to be a great season. Go Gamecocks!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Trying to Connect
Connect. It is the word of the new millennium. Think about it. There are more cell phones than ever (even in the hands of even the youngest of kids). There is Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. Then of course you have blogspots.
Everyone is working hard to connect with others. We will spend hours of our time tracking one another down just to say hello. We even close our letters with "stay in touch." Verizon has the world's largest network to help you stay "connected." We simply want to connect.
Our annual forty days of prayer and fasting is coming up and I want to CONNECT with God. It has been a great summer and so much is going on @ Sheffield. I genuinely believe God is sending us the harvest and giving us the option as to what we will do with those He sends.
It is imperative that we connect with Him during this time. But even beyond that, we must stay connected. He is our only hope. I want to hear what He has to say. I am ready to move forward!
Everyone is working hard to connect with others. We will spend hours of our time tracking one another down just to say hello. We even close our letters with "stay in touch." Verizon has the world's largest network to help you stay "connected." We simply want to connect.
Our annual forty days of prayer and fasting is coming up and I want to CONNECT with God. It has been a great summer and so much is going on @ Sheffield. I genuinely believe God is sending us the harvest and giving us the option as to what we will do with those He sends.
It is imperative that we connect with Him during this time. But even beyond that, we must stay connected. He is our only hope. I want to hear what He has to say. I am ready to move forward!
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Here we snow again
Back in October, I made a terrible mistake. I publicly confessed that I loved snow. It is now time to commit to never saying that again. At least until this October.
And I must admit, even snow lovers probably would confess, "this is ridiculus." How about you?
And I must admit, even snow lovers probably would confess, "this is ridiculus." How about you?
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