Mid. Mon. Wrap

Had a busy day yesterday and no internet access last night, hence the mid.mon. post.

  • I have a whole lot of random thoughts banging around in the brain closet after taking a liitle sabbatical from the blog world.
  • We had a wonderful time away with Denise's family.  I always enjoy our time in TX and usually get in some good reading over Christmas break. I will blog about the books I read in the coming days.
  • It was great to be back home at Parkview!
  • Tremendous weekend!!
  • It was way out of the box for us to do a video sermon this past weekend.
  • I was absolutely thrilled at the response of our people!! Had many comments and some great emails about the sermon!
  • I would rank it in the top ten messages I ever heard. I would say that based on its practical application and its potential for life change.
  • If you missed it or would like to view it again here is a link to view the message - http://www.oneprayer.com/church/new-hope-christian-fellowship/en
  • I really consider it an incredible blessing that I saw the sermon while at a church on vacation this summer. God orchestrated all of that!
  • I can't say enough good about our whole weekend experience.
  • It was the first time we ever did a video sermon. I am sure we will do it again - when God leads.
  • I love the fact that one of our core values is - Expect the Unexpected!
  • I would personally like to thank our 55+ age group - you gave me some of the best feedback!
  • We had phenomenal guest numbers this weekend. Several who returned from Christmas Eve having been their first visit.  Alot of young couples.  Made up for the couples all out having babies :-).
  • We announced Darren's acceptance of a worship pastor position in Charolette, NC.  We hate to see Darren go but are thrilled at God's leading in his life.  I would like to thank everyone in our church who has invested in Darren to help prepare him for this new ministry opportunity.
  • Really looking forward to getting back in the groove after the holidays.
  • This weekend everyone will be back and we start our new series, Souvenir Christianity.
  • The guys have a great video element planned for the entire series
  • IF YOU HAVE NOT SIGNED UP FOR A SMALL GROUP PLEASE DO SO RIGHT NOW - http://parkviewlife.com/form_liveform.asp?FormID=6
  • If you are not involved in a small group you are missing out on the life blood of our church!!!!!!  The best way to do life is in relationship with others!!!
  • I heard that our students had a phenomenal trip to Tampa. I will get you more information as printed word on the trip appears.
  • Lord, THANKS FOR THE WEEKEND YOU JUST BLESSED US WITH AT PARKVIEW!
  • If you go to the 10:30 service PLEASE consider attending one of our 3 other services!!!! This past weekend was a holiday weekend and 10:30 was full. Please be a modern day missionary and give up your 10:30 seat - I promise we will fill it with a guest.
  • Have a very blessed week - my stomach is growling and I need to go get some lunch.
  • It is New Years resolution week so I think I will get a salad!

A Distant Wrap-Up

  • We are still in Texas enjoying time with family
  • We have enjoyed the Rodeo, Joe T. Garcias mexican food and Sonny Bryants brisket. I feel like all I need now is a large belt buckle.
  • Texas has the worst conditioned roads. I favor a Texas tax increase, the roads here are terrible.  If we had these pot ridden, slope dipping roads the people in Palm Coast would be in an uproar.
  • My in-laws Suburban has a red-neck muffler on it - sad thing is I am beginning to like the sound of it - Denise continues to rub off on me in more ways than one. Maybe the reason I keep making fun of my redneck relatives is because I am jealous - can't believe I just said that!!!
  • I spoke this morning to a single's group and this evening I preached at Denise's home church.  In a way, I was hoping to not speak this weekend and have some time off. I have a hard time saying no to preaching opportunities! Enjoyed both opportunities and had a young man in his 20's trust Christ this evening - ptl!
  • Going to do some studying over the next couple of days - looking forward to getting a jump start on some upcoming sermons.
  • We will be back in town on Friday.
  • Really looking forward to this weekend! Doing a first and have been looking forward to it for months.
  • It still involves Hawaii.
  • It is going to be a great kickoff to the New Year!
  • I love Parkview and am pumped about 2009!!!!
  • When I am away I really try to unplug - a former boss taught me the importance of that. As a result, I have not phoned in to see how the services went this weekend at Parkview, but I am sure all went well.  We have a most capable staff and they always do a super job.  I read Barry's message the other day and loved some of the thoughts that he was going to be sharing!
  • If you would, please pray some for me this week as I study and think strongly on some things for 2009.

Christ's Day

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

  • The alarm sounded at 4 am - I felt like a child again, waking at that hour on Christmas
  • Left at 4:30
  • Got $20 in gas, an OJ and Boston Cream
  • Arrived at the O Town park and fly just after 6 am
  • Jet took off at 7:30
  • One layover later arrived in Dallas just before noon central time
  • Great to be with Denise and Seth after being apart for a couple days!!
  • Not sure if Seth was happy to see me or happy he could now open gifts?!?!?!
  • First my father in law read the Christmas story - Seth acted out part of the drama.
  • The story of Christ's birth never gets old!!!!!
  • I got a new running watch - evidently the old one was water resistent but not sweat resistent.
  • Got some new running socks and a couple other nice gifts!
  • My mother in law made an incredible lunch!
  • Shot Seth's new air gun - we killed the inflatable deer about 100 times.
  • Played a game of washers.
  • Watched I slept through most of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
  • Tomorrow the McCormack family, former Parkview members, are driving up from Houston and we are going to spend the day together.
  • Going to the rodeo tomorrow night with them.
  • Started reading a great book today - Back to Bethel, written by F.B. Meyer in 1901 - EXCELLENT READ!
  • Not far out of bed - I definitely have some catching up to do!!!!
  • The Chocolate Pie just shouted from the kitchen and would like to donate another slice to me.
  • Enjoyed a number of Christmas text messages from friends today - thanks!
  • I am again reminded how awesome God is!
  • I thank the Lord for the phenomenal Christmas season we have enjoyed at Parkview!

Misc@Midnight

  • It is just a few minutes before I turn into a pumpkin.
  • Crazy/awesome weekend in one.
  • I personally couldn't fit another thing in the weekend
  • Sat @ 2 I did a wedding and today @ 3 I did a funeral - in between we squeezed in 4 weekend services.
  • The volunteers of Parkview are phenomenal!!!!!!!!!
  • I thank God for volunteers who have become genuine leaders!
  • Hard work with a sweet spirit and servants heart is common place at Parkview.
  • I love it when ministry happens and I am unaware and uninvolved!
  • Love people who are not afraid to pull the trigger
  • Yes, you will fail at times but don't worry so do I!
  • Don't forget that one of our core values is Always Push the Enveloppe
  • Man have we seen that value fleshed out this month!!!!
  • Palm Coast Living Nativity
  • Wise Men Gift Exchange
  • Children's Christmas program
  • All in the last 72 hours
  • Nativity - over 850 cars - 4 people per car average = 3,400 people
  • Wise Men Gift Exchange - 1,500+ gifts, 90 families, over 200 children - countless tears!
  • Best part about everything - a dozen or more people trusted Christ in our weekend services!!!!!!
  • Can't wait for our 3 Christmas Eve services
  • Looking forward to the down time that follows!
  • Wouldn't trade my job for anything except the sleep that I am about to experience!
  • Next post probably Christmas day.
  • Love You - Merry Christmas!!!

Second Night

My family and I were not at the nativity tonight - Seth had his school Christmas program. I got a phone call just before 6 pm and was told that 25 cars were in line and waiting for the nativity to open.  We had 310 cars go through tonight - that is a 50% increase from last night and our largest night in the 3 years. I can't wait to see what happens tomorrow night!!!!

I don't think it is an exaggeration to say that we have received over 1,000 gifts for our wise men gift exchange. Our auditorium is full of gifts. The gifts are great and they keep coming. If you know anyone who is having a challenging time, PLEASE have them at our church this Sat at 8am.  All gifts are free and we will give each child 3 gifts of their choice.

Just a quick thought - Parkview Church, BEWARE - this kind of stuff ticks the devil off. He will fight! Let us pray, walk in humility, love people and take turf for the kingdom!

First Night

Our opening evening went great!

  • Had 201 cars go through - almost all cars had entire families.
  • One lady was just weeping as she left.
  • I asked one little boy in the back seat of his car what he wanted for Christmas, he was 9 years old and he said, "I want my other mom to get off drugs". I think he was with his foster mom.
  • Couple people asked me about our service times.
  • Our volunteers did a phenomenal job!!!!!
  • Several cars that went through said that we do a better job each year. I was kind of surprised that people noticed the improvements seen as how it had been a year since their last trip through.
  • I love 70 degree weather in Florida during the Christmas season!
  • Thanks again to all our volunteers.
  • We have HUNDREDS of toys already turned in for our Wise Men Gift Exchange - it satarts at 8am right here at our church this Saturday. PLEASE tell everyone in need to come. We want to give all the toys away!
  • Invite everyone you know and everyone you don't know to come the next two nights!!!!!!

Busy Week

This week at Parkview there are all kinds of events and happenings.  Tomorrow night, Wednesday, kicks of the 3rd annual Palm Coast Living Nativity, right here on our campus from 6-8:30 pm.  Please be sure to invite everybody that has a pulse!!! I just finished inviting someone a little while ago and their response was that they heard so many people talk last year about how great it was that they wanted to come this year.  There are several improvements to make this the best year yet!

The nativity runs Wed - Fri nights. On Saturday morningfrom 8 - 11 am is the Wise Men Gift Exchange.  All of the gifts that have already been turned in and those that will be donated during the nativity will be given away on Saturday morning.  If you know anyone who is having a hard time this Christmas financially than please let them know about this opportunity to get free gifts for their children.

To our volunteers, let me just say - YOU ARE DOING A PHENOMENAL JOB!!!!!   We have a ton more help this year and the load has been lightened on those who were having to do so much the last two years.  I am so proud of our church family.  The more people who get involved, the easier it is to make a larger impact for Christ. One of the reasons for our improvements this year is simply because we have the manpower to do it.  Some of you who are regular readers are not specifically involved in the nativity but you serve so faithfully elsewhere - THANKS!

Parkview Gives Back has simply accomplished so much more than we could have ever imagined!  It frustrates me not to be able to share in detail all that God is doing.  The stories continue to come in and the best part is the love that is being shared during these most difficult days.  What this is doing for our church is almost the same of what this is doing for our community!  Our church is loving what God is accomplishing.

This weekend our children will be singing in all of the weekend services.

Sorry to cut it short but I need to run. Merry Christmas!

 

Party, Party, Party

Tonight concluded our string of Christmas parties - we have hosted three in the last two weeks. This evening was our staff party and we had a very nice time together. Denise cooked another phenomenal spread of food!  We played a couple games and had alot of laughs. I am very tired and am calling it a night. Don't forget about the living nativity Wed - Fri night from 6-8:30!

Quick Download

Just a few quick thoughts from the weekend

  • Love this season because of the opportunity to make Christ known!
  • Love the spirit of the season that is being embraced at Parkview.
  • We enjoy, gifts, parties, light and trees, but it seems that the manger scene is NOT getting buried under all the stuff this year.
  • I love doing Christmas with temperatures in the mid-70's
  • I miss the snow, but not bad enough to want any.
  • Had great weekend services!!!!
  • Channing last weekend and Hanna Bruce this weekend - their incredible talent and heart for the Lord were refreshing.
  • Channing called me agian this week and just let me know again how much he enjoyed his time at Parkview.
  • The Christmas Coffee House was absolutely terrific tonight.  I love Jazz music and Christmas music and the two together make for a wonderful evening.
  • I thank the Lord for the wonderful guests that He continues to send our way.
  • Our attendance for the last couple months has been awesome.
  • During these economically challenging times, the Lord continues to provide for our church. God's people are faithful and I know the Lord will honor our commitent!!
  • I believe the Lord blesses as we continue to reach out and make a difference in this community.
  • Heard several fantastic Parkview Gives Back stories this week. I told them all to email givesback@parkviewlife,com - if you have a story be sure to share!
  • The nativity crew began their setup this afternoon. Thomas, who is in charge, said the help was phenomenal - way to go volunteers!!!!
  • Be sure to invite someone to come this Wed - Fri from 6- 8:30
  • This year we are adding a Roman Soldier on horse back.
  • I took a 45 minute power nap today and it was really good - hope I can sleep tonight.
  • Our coffee house santa was Irish - never have I seen so much laughter at a santa sitting.
  • Be sure to re-gift hope this week to all you come in contact with.
  • I love what I do - thanks to so many who allow me to be your pastor. I can't over state what a privilege it is!
  • Merry Christmas!

Leader Up

Leadership is influence.
Everything rises and falls on leadership.
Leaders lead that is what leaders do.
...and the list could go on.

Few things stoke me up like leadership. Tonight I met with our elders, finance team and building team - it was phenomenal! I told them at the end of the meeting that many men live their whole life and never have the privilege of being a part of a leadership team like we have. It seems like every time we meet we walk away excited about our team.  Here are a few things that I think make our team so great.
  • The men love God
  • They understand the vision of our church
  • They have a heart for people
  • They respect each others experience
  • We are open and transparent
  • I love the fact that we have yet to draft a yellow, spineless, yes man
  • They love me and have my back and I don't question that!
  • They are men of integrity and if that ever changes so would their position!
  • They are men of FAITH
  • They are excited about the work of God at Parkview!
  • They are thinkers
  • They speak truth in respect and love
Thanks John Williams, Rick Siboni, Jay Goolsby, Chris Dawson, Randy Poyner, Thomas Staffaucher, John Skripko, Al Jones and Rod Kimberly!
I will be sharing some very exciting news in the weeks ahead as a result of our meeting!

Prayer Anyone?

This morning in staff meeting we had an honest conversation about prayer.  It was a "how are we doing" kind of conversation.  For me the talk was very challenging, encouraging and transparent.  These are some of the thoughts I walked away with:
  • It is what encourages us
  • It is what empowers us
  • It is fun to pray with our kids
  • For some it was easier to pray consistently when in the market place as opposed to now being in ministry (that may surprise you)
  • The devil doesn't want us to pray (that may not surprise you)
  • Praying one minute every hour during the day is fun
  • Our methods were as varied as us
  • Sometimes it is hard to stay focused
  • The morning works best
  • The evening works best
  • We love it when we pray
  • We hate it when we don't pray
  • Different seasons of life present different opportunities
  • Different seasons of life present different obstacles
  • We can all tell when we are ministering out of an overdrawn prayer account
  • God is worthy of our prayer
  • We are not as effective in ministry without prayer
  • It would be great to be known as a praying church
  • We can't be a praying church without praying people
  • Our men's prayer group and women's prayer group are special
Alot of other thoughts were shared but these are the ones that stuck with me.
What would you add to the list?

P.S. BE AT CHURCH ON TIME YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THE OPENER THIS WEEKEND!

Late but on time

Just a quick thought or two. I normally post in the evening for the following day, but last night that didn't work out. Somehow I fell asleep:-)!
I also just posted a closing comment on last Friday's post. We had some great dialogue in the comment section and it caused us to think and look at our own faith. Thanks to the participants!

I had a really nice day yesterday in the St. Cloud area at a pastors fellowship. I heard 3 encouraging and challenging messages yesterday, made a new friend, saw many old ones, had a good lunch provided by the host church and got home by dinner time.  Most of what challenged me was in the area of missions - which just happens to be an area the Lord has been challenging me.  One of the speakers was a man who has done a good deal of ministry in Cambodia. I look forward to following up with him in the near future.  Cambodia has always had a special place in my heart.  In fact, lately I have been thinking about how it seems like so long since I have been there - about a year and a half ago. I hope to go back in the next 6 to 12 months.  I appreciate the ongoing work that our missionary Tim Stephens is doing in the training of nationals for us out in the province of Kampong Thom. By the way, the Lord has also been blessing our Cambodian congregation here at Parkview. Chem Rouen does a very good job as a bi-vocational pastor.  A couple weeks ago they had a special Sunday and had 113 in attendance.  Also, the weekend we did Parkview Gives Back, we included the Cambodian congregation - they were so thrilled to participate.

I need to get ready and go to the office - Have a blessed day. Don't forget to re-gift the Christmas spirit of celebration that we talked about this past weekend.

Sunday Night Life

  • Alot to share - not sure where to start
  • Feeling very tired and love these good tireds (new word)
  • Wonderful weekend at Parkview!
  • A dose of Sunday night honesty - Saturday night had a misfire and I am not really sure why. Attendance was good and we pretty much did the exact same thing on Sunday morning but Saturday was just different. Never seen us hit a single on Saturday night and home runs on Sunday.  In the past, we have homered on Saturday night only to foul it off on Sunday. If you attend Sat night - come this weekend ready to worship with all your heart - we are going to have a make-up game.  A disclaimer - our staff didn't necessarily feel the same way.
  • Channing and his band did a phenomenal job!!
  • The auditorium looks tremendous - it creates a real Christmas spirit.
  • Next week with Hanna and the choir is going to be off the chain! If you have not purchased you tickets for the evening coffee house, call the church today!
  • The 10:30 service is staying packed - we REALLY need our church regulars to come to any service but 10:30 - let's do our best to save that one service for our guests!
  • I need a haircut
  • The Ravens game is on - their quarterback is from the University of Delaware - go Blue Hens!
  • We had a great Christmas party this evening with our elders and those in our Timothy Program.
  • Denise is the greatest cook and hostess in US history. She really is very gifted in this way.
  • One of her homemade pies had one slice left and when no one was looking, I took it and hid it on top of the fridge.
  • I was also the first one to fix my plate at the party - I so do not have the gift of host!
  • My Sunday afternoon spiritual hangover really causes me to do strange things! (that sounds like a decent excuse)
  • Our love offering for Channing and his group was generous - thanks Parkview!
  • Tomorrow I am going to a Pastor's fellowship.
  • I am very thankful for what God is doing at Parkview.  These have been a few amazing months - all the credit belongs to God. I am concerned about what the devil is planning.  We must stay humble, walk with God, love people and fight the enemy.
  • Received another amazing Parkview gives back story. The ripples continue.
  • As I mentioned in church I will be interviewed on The Reach Fm Morning Drive this Friday at 7:30am. In Palm Coast you can tune in on 102.5 or online at www.reachfm.org.
  • Be blessed - that slice of pie is calling my name!

Bonus Post

Normally don't put anything up for Friday but I liked a post by Tony Morgan from New Spring Community Church, where he serves on the executive staff.  I will paste it below. Also, be sure you catch yesterday's video if you haven't already seen it.  By the way I love it when people step out on a limb and say things that are a little risky or uncomfortable, that is why I am sharing Tony's post -

10 Reasons I Don’t Like Most Christians

  1. They consistently seem angry and bitter and worried. I thought Christians were supposed to reflect joy and kindness and peace.
  2. They don’t dream big dreams. That seems odd given the fact that we’re supposedly worshiping a God who is “able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare ask or hope.”
  3. They seem to worship their theology more than Jesus. For whatever reason, this appears to be especially true for folks that come from a reformed theology.
  4. They don’t like it when other people or ministries experience success. Think about it. There are Christians who would be overwhelmed with joy if NewSpring experienced fewer salvations, fewer baptisms and our attendance dropped.
  5. They use prayer as an excuse for inaction. They’re waiting for God to do his thing, but they aren’t willing to step out in faith and obedience.
  6. They’re more concerned with the BMW next door than the lost person who drives it. Christians hate people with money. They’re willing to sacrifice time and money for those without it, but they’re satisfied to let “rich” people go to Hell.
  7. They would rather people live life without Jesus than give up their personal preferences. What happens when your preferred teacher doesn’t teach? What happens when your preferred worship leader doesn’t lead? What happens when you don’t like the music?
  8. They are fake. They dress up a certain way on Sunday and they live as completely different people the rest of the week.
  9. They think they’re better than other people. That’s why they create rules to follow. It helps differentiate why they are holy while others are not.
  10. They’re comfortable with mediocrity. Doesn’t matter where. Think Christian music and movies. Think how we invest our time and money. You don’t seriously think God deserves our best do you?

Technology Conquered

This weekend is going to be incredible!!!! A small part of the weekend will involve regifting and in honor of that I filmed a little video as some of our staff gathered the other day - click on the link below and enjoy -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIBC6Xp0qE0

 

Mentally, I mean Technology Challenged

I am trying to upload the video blog I promised and am having challenges. On God Tube I was getting a java script error so I am trying to open a You Tube account and am now waiting for my confirmation email so I can access my account and upload the video. Then I will be able to post the link on my blog.  By the way I am still trying to switch my blog to Word Press and I won't go into the ridiculous story but that should take place within the next week - hopefully.

Forgotten Phone Call

I was riding down the road today when all of the sudden it hit me - the phone call I received Thanksgiving Day. I was returning home from the race I had run and Denise was driving, I was just kind of vegging in the passenger seat. Because I was whipped and because it was Thanksgiving, when my cell rang and I did not recognize the number, I was tempted to let it go to voicemail - instead I answered - glad I did. It was one of our ministry leaders apologizing profusely for calling me on Thanksgiving Day.  They shared the quick story - somebody who had visited our church periodically over the last year needed help - what kind of help you ask? They needed me to bail them out of Jail on Thanksgiving day - yes you just read that line correctly. The story - they are a single parent with one child. They were ticketed in another county for an illegal turn, etc.. and never appeared for the hearing.  They were then pulled over Thanksgiving-eve for running a red light, no insurance and not appearing for the previous hearing - hence a brand new pair of sterling silver bracelets and a night in the luxurious sherrif's office five star bar hotel.  With absolutely noone else to call and a child at home with the landlord, I am now being asked via a ministry leader for help. My thoughts at the time - it is a no-brainer, absolutely give them the $252.00 and get them out of the slammer on Thanksgiving so they can get home with their child. Oh, by the way, there is one stipulation - they must first agree to meet with me in the next week. I didn't think they would have a problem agreeing to that considering the circumstances.  Why do I share this story? Couple reasons: I want you to know that our church desires to walk in when maybe everybody else has walked out - that is WWJD. Also, we are all ex-cons, most of us just weren't caught, so erase that smug, holier than thou, puke stenching attitude out of your heart. Another reason, it may just open the door that enables us to live out our church's mission in another person's life -"guiding people to life change in Christ".  And by the way in case you are thinking that is wishful thinking - you just need to know one thing - some of our best church members are ex-cons. No I am not kidding. In fact, a guy who I talked with today, who I love like my brother and who took my son, Seth out recently by himself for a night out on the town, that guy spent almost 20 years behind bars. Guess where he came the first Sunday after being released - Parkview. Been coming for about three years, met a woman in our church, I married them and I wish I had 20 guys like him in our church!!!! Satan, put that testimony in your pipe and smoke it!
Sharing stories like this brings tears to my eyes. I love what God is doing at Parkview and I feel so blessed to be a part of it!!
By the way, this weekend is going to be off the chain! I have spoken with Channing a couple times this week and He is really looking forward to being with us.
Plus tomorrow night, I will be posting a video blog that will tie in with the coming weekend!
Man, do I ever love what I do!!

Misc. Inside Stuff

I am going to do a different kind of post. My purpose for this is to help us to continue to live with a spirit of thankfulness and secondly, I desire to just give you a little behind the scenes look at pastoring.  The last few days have made me very thankful and you will see what I mean in just a minute. In regards to the behind the scenes part, it just reminds me that pastors are never really off.  I still smile large when I think of how people used to ask me where I work during the week.

I honestly can't remember what all has happened over the last few days but let me share a few things that I do remember.  On Thanksgiving day I had a couple of conversations with a family and I was trying to console them. The story - A woman and her 2 children attended Parkview for a few years before moving to GA.  The woman's husband and I were friends.  He came to church for special occasions and we also got together outside of church on a number of occasions over the years.  Although I really enjoyed our time together, I was always burdened that he didn't really make any room for God.  His wife and kids attended regularly and family said that the husband accepted Christ as Savior as a 9 year old boy - only the Lord knows.  The reason that I was consoling the family on Thanksgiving was because the doctors said the husband would probably not live through the day. He lived through Thanksgiving but did die Sunday morning. In short, he drank himself to death. He leaves behind his wife, 6 & 9 year old sons, his parents and siblings. The family is devestated and I will be doing the funeral in the days ahead. My heart breaks and at the same time this makes me even more thankful for my health and family

Black Friday, while my wife was out shopping, I swung by the office and checked my email. There was an email from a young lady in our church. She had sent it in the early morning hour of Thanksgiving and she gave me her cell number and asked me to call as soon as possible.  This young lady, her husband and beautiful children have been attending our church for several months and have been so faithful.  The story - her husband was coming home from work Wed, the night before Thanksgiving and it was just before midnight. He had 2 coworkers in the car and they were taveling south on I-95 and were nearing the Palm Coast exit. Another car lost control, hit them, they then lost control and began flipping and ended up well off the interstate with the vehicle upside down.  The husband/father was hanging upside down suspended by his seat belt and the passenger in the backseat was strapped in her seat belt.  The passenger in the front passanger seat was not wearing his seat belt - he was ejected during the crash and tragically died at the scene. The man from our church spent a couple days in the hospital and is now home recovering.  In many ways we are ministering to this dear family. This makes me very thankful for the safety God has given to me and my family.

I think I have shared enough for now. Just posting about only these two incidents that happened during the holiday pains me deeply. My heart as a friend and pastor breaks for both of these families.  Yet, I do know that God has a purpose and plan in both situations.  I am thankful that our Lord is the God of all comfort.

Sunday Night Download

  • Thankful for the wonderful Thanksgiving week.
  • Disappointed that Seth has to start school tomorrow - not as disappointed as he is.
  • Only a few leftovers still available and they keep getting better with age
  • Yesterday Denise, Seth and I drove to Tampa
  • Today we went to Life Point Church - www.lifepoint.tv
  • Life Point was started by a college friend of mine.
  • Brad went to Tampa about 8 years ago and the Lord has greatly blessed his ministry
  • The church purchased and renovated a Winn Dixie almost two years ago and now have about 2,500 in attendance. They also merged with another church and have grown from about 800 to 2,500 in the last two years. Can't wait to see how God will use our future worship center as a tool to help us better reach our community.
  • Life Point also does 4 services just like we do, except they have about 30,000 sq.ft. more.
  • I enjoyed my visit and the opportunity to learn, observe, ask questions, be stretched, dream, envision, etc..
  • I enjoyed being out of the pulpit for the weekend, not even sure when I was out of the pulpit last, may have been my summer sabbatical.  Ideally I should speak 45 weekends or less a year - think that will be where I end up this year.  I know it is off subject, but it is the end of November and I can still feel the benefits from taking off 3 weekends in a row this past summer.
  • Heard Parkview had great services this weekend.
  • I read Barry's message and teamed up with him in some prep work and really would have loved preaching the message myself - loved the topic and content.
  • Attendance was tremendous for the Thanksgiving weekend. I am so grateful for the faithfulness of our church family!
  • Really looking forward to the stretch between now and Christmas!
  • Then looking forward to the freshness of the new year.
  • God has so many phenomenal things in store for Parkview in the weeks and months ahead!!!!!!!!!
  • Our family has not decided about what we are doing with our Give Back funds.
  • I can't wait for where God is going to lead us.
  • I have been hearing some great stories and thoughts.
  • Be sure to email your story once it all unfolds.
  • When we got home tonight we put up the pre-lit tree we bought after Christmas last year.
  • 9' and Denise only paid $45 - it really does look nice. Anybody want to come finish it off with ornaments.
  • Denise wants outdoor lights up this year. If you want to come help Chevy Chase let me know:-)!
  • Wish we weren't out of milk
  • Need to make a phone call
  • Have a great week!!

Thanksgiving

Thought we would do a couple family Thanksgiving thoughts. I'll go first since I am in current possession of the laptop.
  • Denise, a loving, godly, patient, very talented wife, who always encourages me in ministry and life.
  • Seth, an energized, intelligent, sensitive, loving, athletic, beautiful, future leader
  • My family - a privilege to live in the same town as my grandmother, parents, brother - Barry, sister-in-law  Laura, soon born nephew - Davis. I also think my sister - Lisa and her husband - Chris are great, even though they don't live here.
  • My weaknesses - these are the things that God uses to keep me humble and dependent on Him.
  • My strengths - these are the things that fuel my life and ministry for God's glory.
  • Parkview staff!
  • Parkview volunteers!
  • PARKVIEW! Couple quick thoughts - This week 3 CARS WERE DONATED FROM PEOPLE IN OUR CHURCH TO THE SINGLE MOM'S MINISTRY!(Incredible) generosity is contagious. I have a few really cool emailed stories I need to post to Parkview Gives Back! So grateful for what GOD IS DOING! Love seeing people experience life change.
  • My health - ran my second half-marathon this morning. Finished in 2:08:09 - 4 minutes better than my first race. Ran the first half of today's race in 56:31 - HIT THE WALL HARD at mile 10. Wanted to finish in less than 2 hours but at least I did break the 10 minute mile average.
  • Most importantly, I am thankful for the shed blood of Christ which has forgiven me of my sins, given me eternal life and hope in this life.  I am most thankful for my best friend, JESUS CHRIST!
Seth's list of things he is thankful for:
  • That we got to go to Grammy and Pop-Pop's today
  • That we have food
  • Our house
  • Candy
  • That I am playing football next year
  • Our family - I like it when we tickle each other
  • Lucy our dog and our dog that died, Spurgeon

Bullets III

  • Tonight I read a few chapters of "First Born Advantage", interesting read.
  • Waxed the truck today - Turtle Wax, the old fashion way. It runs better now!!
  • Seth and I got to spend alot of time together.
  • He picked out what he wants for Christmas at Walmart. It would be easiest for us to buy every toy and he could return what he doesn't want!
  • I went to Bealls and put my Christmas presents on hold so my mom could go buy them tomorrow - pretty pathetic aye!? And to think I was the one who used to insist on the surprise factor.
  • Denise has been working hard on getting our closets cleaned - having a big yard sale next Friday with the neighbors.
  • Have had a couple wonderful responses to help the local boys home.
  • Not feeling 100% and am running a half-marathon in 36 hours. Hope the nasal drain quits during my sleep tonight.
  • Hoping to break 2 hours in my run. I haven't trained as hard and have not been feeling too well - give it 50/50.
  • Supposed to be very cold on Thursday morning - probably 25/75 now that I think about it.
  • The church looks great! Christmas is just around the corner.
  • The next month at Parkview is going to be awesome.
  • I keep hearing some of the ideas people are considering for Parkview Gives Back
  • Be sure to email your story to giveback@parkviewlife.com - your shared story will be an encouragement to others.
  • I am so glad the Lord led us to do Parkview Gives Back. I really believe that He is going to be glorified in a big way.
  • Tomorrow I will share why I am thankful.
  • Hope you are planning to have an incredible Thanksgiving!

Monday Misc.

  • Too tired to write in complete thoughts - will just bullet again tonight
  • I got in the rack at 7pm and am not even embarrassed to admit it
  • Getting old
  • Still recovering my voice, now if my nasal faucet would shut off
  • Today was a great day
  • Had a couple of really good appointments. I wish everybody could have experienced them
  • We gave food to a few more families today.
  • We gave food to a "modern day orphanage" that is in the R section of our community
  • There are actually 3 homes with 7 kids each
  • We are partnering with at least one of them
  • We gave alot of groceries to the home today and are going to try and help 7 boys have some presents for Christmas.
  • Two people in our church already have a relationship with the home.
  • Already have a couple stories posted from Parkview Gives Back
  • Before we announced Parkview Gives Back we took up our offering earlier in the services. Just like God - our offering was one of the highest all year long. That is so stinkin' just like God!!!! (red neckese)
  • God is up to some Big things at Parkview
  • Love the MOMENTUM
  • Talked to Channing today - he is going to be a huge blessing when he comes in 2 weeks
  • Very nice twist to communion this coming weekend!
  • My wife and son are the best!!!
  • The rest of this week will involve alot of time with them!
  • Glad some of our staff are away on vacation with family.
  • Glad some staff are picking up the slack
  • Pray that God will enable us to be effective pipelines of His provision

Sunday Night Write

  • Alot going on and I am still trying to process!
  • Denise is out with a friend
  • Seth has a friend over
  • I am pretending they are behaving in the other room while I am watching 24
  • I have no voice so I am whistling when they seem to be getting a little loud.
  • Jack is one bad dude - reminds me of myself before ministry!
  • Let me try to share my thoughts from today.
  • The energy was high!
  • The music was TREMENDOUS!
  • I lipped every song - my voice was so shot I couldn't sing but I sounded better lipping it anyway!
  • I thank the Lord for giving me the strength for all four services!
  • I stand amazed at the work God is doing at Parkview.
  • Attendance was over 800 this weekend - ptl!!!
  • For some reason He has seemed to open the floodgates.
  • The work that is most important is the one that is in us and it empowers the one through us.
  • All the hype leading into this weekend was about Parkview Gives Back
  • Amazingly we were able to keep it a surprise! Nobody outside of our leaders knew what was coming.
  • Parkview Gives Back was all about us being God's pipeline of His provision
  • Loved preaching 6 pipeline principles - if you missed the service you can listen online for free - www.parkviewlife.com/sermons
  • At the close of the sermon the ushers came forward with offering plates.
  • After a brief explanation the ushers passed the plates for people to take money OUT of the plate.
  • We announced that we were prepared to give away up to $13,000
  • Every adult took an envelope and enclosed in the envelope was anything between a $10 and a $100 bill.
  • Included in the envelope was an idea generator card to help get the creative juices flowing.
  • We are asking people to do their best to add to or multiply the funds.
  • Hearts were touched and tears were shed!
  • Our church is very excited about what we know God is preparing to do!
  • This is not about us this is all about GOD
  • He is Jehovah-Jireh we are simply the pipeline of His provision. He has given it to us so that He can give it through us.
  • Be sure to email your stories to giveback@parkviewlife.com
  • Let each of us be praying that God does the supernatural.

God is Moving

Lately I have thrown in a couple extra posts for Friday reading and just couldn't pass up the opportunity to do so today.
Last night we had our Parkview Celebrate service - if you missed it, we had an awesome time worshiping God!!! Pastor Derek, band and choir did a phenomenal job ushering us into God's presence!  Best part about the evening was 20 people going public with their faith through baptism!  The testimonies were real sweet and it is always great to see families dedicate their little ones back to the Lord.

If you have not read the comments from yesterday's post they are worth the read.  Things are buzzing about this weekend. A couple more thoughts about what is coming:
  • I can't believe we are doing it!
  • The few leaders who know, they can hardly sleep!
  • It is news worthy
  • Final preparations are being made today
  • It is a massive step of faith!
  • The whole city will be saying,"I can't believe Parkview ....................."
  • We will also ask those who come to earlier services NOT to tell those who are coming to the later services. We want everyone to find out in the service.

Be There!

Normally I have some decent excuses for why I can't go to church, but this weekend the only reason I won't be there is  if I am in the hospital.

On a more serious note - I believe that the Lord is in the process of doing some very wonderful things in and through His people.  I have not been pastoring for 25+ years or anything like that, but I have been pastoring long enough to be able to recognize The Big Mo. The Big Mo is momentum. You just know when you have it in your marriage, at work, in your hobby, in your money, etc... You also know when you don't have it!!  I thank the Lord for the momentum that He is raining down on Parkview!  I sense it in conversations, in staff connections, in guest responses, in elder meetings, in worship services, etc...

This weekend I believe that God is going to throw gas on the momentum that we are already experiencing. We are about to go to a whole new place, orbit, level, position, etc.. 

I don't mean to be unkind but if you don't feel it this weekend, now might be a time to look for another church. Seriously, everyone needs to be in a church where God is working in them and through them. Life is too short to "live" flatlined.

Be blessed and I can't wait to see you this weekend!

 

Green Light!

IT IS A GO!
Do whatever you must to get to church.
Cancel your vacation, Bum a ride from Pam in her new car. Let Seth give you a ride on his stick horse. Get your gludious maximus out of the rack. Fish some other day. Shorten 18 to 9. Pretend Jesus is preaching.
This is going to be off the chain. I promise you will remember this weekend for years to come and yes I just said years.
Our leaders are sworn to secrecy so don't ask them.
EVERYBODY will be blessed!
This will change our church and our city.
This is personal.
God will be glorified.

Excited!

Every once in a great while I will have trouble sleeping. All other nights under a strobe light on an active runway would be a fine place to get a sound nights sleep.  Last night was one of those not so good sleeping nights.  At 1:32 am, tired of not being tired, I got up, took a christian narcotic (tylenol pm for those who would freak out if I didn't explain), got the laptop, went into the family room, grabbed a blanket, turned on the tv and fell asleep on the floor somewhere around 2:30. Seth made sure I was up promptly at 7am!  Here is the deal - I know why I couldn't sleep - my mind was travelling at the speed of light!  Over what you ask? A BHAG - BHAG is a big hairy audacious goal. Today, I had several more conversations around this BHAG and unless God throws it in reverse we are about to majorly embrace one of our core values - Always Push the Envelope (FAITH). I love doing things that are destined for failure without divine intervention!!

Last week I ran 3.5 miles and thought I was going to die. Today I ran 9 miles, the time flew by and ten minutes after the run I felt like a milllion dollars. Why you ask? Today while I was running I spent the 1hour 25minutes mostly thinking about the BHAG! BHAG's will keep you up at night and simultaneously cause you to feel like an Olympic Runner.

I will perhaps give a little insight into the BHAG throughout the week. Tomorrow our staff will drill down on the specifics. ALL I CAN TELL YOU IS IT LOOKS LIKE YOU REALLY DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS WEEKEND!!!

I really appreciate the faith, service and leadership of our Elders and Finance Team!

First Day Mind Dump

  • Seeing people get saved never gets old!
  • A number of people trusted Christ this weekend - some great stories attached to each of those lives!
  • I have LOVED this series on the names of God!
  • Sensing tremendous momentum - God is clearly at work.
  • Attendance was tremendous!
  • Had 62 kids in 1st thru 6th at the 10:30 service alone!
  • If you go to 10:30 PLEASE consider the noon service!!!
  • Our volunteers are amazing - tremendous to see so many people serving!
  • This coming weekend is going to be off the chain!!!!
  • I will go ahead and tell you now what we are going to do.  I will be speaking on God our Healer and two men in our church who are surgeons will be joining me in a dialogue on stage. Steve and Darren both love the Lord and are very involved in our church.  We have been preparing for this weekend for a couple weeks - YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT!!!
  • If you ever wanted to bring a friend this coming weekend is the time to do it.
  • This afternoon I had the opportunity to teach our Timothy Program.
  • Denise and I then went to eat with the Kidder's.
  • Rick and Robin are phenomenal leaders in our children's ministry. I appreciate what they do for our children and especially what they have done for Seth. 
  • If you have a child(ren) in our children's ministry you are very fortunate! All of our workers are phenomenal and they really love our kids!
  • Our Elder Team is talking about doing something unprecedented in the history of our church and it would involve everybody. What we are talking about is so mammoth that I don't even know what to really say. I am praying and we will see what happens.
  • Cowboys won, I'm tired, have a good week!

Good Quote

I read a blog post by Steven Furtick, pastor of Elevation Church in North Carolina, thought it was very good so here it is:

You can measure the value that you place on a relationship by the level of discomfort you are willing to engage to make that relationship the best it can possibly be.

The absence of tension and conflict is not the mark of a healthy relationship any more than the absence of heavy breathing and muscle fatigue is the mark of an effective exercise program.
The most fulfilling and productive relationships in my life all have one thing in common:
I have initiated or endured very difficult conversations and adjustments along the way to make the relationship what it is.
And the relationship is what it is-not in spite of the hard things-but because of the hard things.

Jesus modeled this when he asked Peter-not once…not twice-three times:
“Do you love me?”
If Peter was going to be the starting pitcher on opening day (Pentecost), he had to be weighed and measured first.  Jesus valued Peter enough to speak acutely to his pain and disappointment.  Peter leaned into the discomfort.  As a result, he was able to lead the charge to change the world.  Well worth the pain, I bet.

Do you value the key relationships in your life enough to engage extreme discomfort to keep correct alignment?

Sunday is Coming

Looking forward to another weekend.  We will be looking at another passage where God revealed a little more about Himself to Abraham. If you want to get ahead and try to figure out a little bit about what I might share then read Genesis 22. We will also be communicating the names of God in a way yet to be seen at Parkview.  Our children's ministry kicks off a brand new series and the set design is awesome!  This will be a great weekend to bring a friend.

Today's Agenda:

  • Meet with my assistant, Pam
  • Clean off my desk
  • Meeting with those in benevolence and food pantry
  • Eat leftover chineese dish my wife made
  • LIFE group leader meeting tonight
  • Some sermon planning for January
  • My weekly long run - had my bannana and oatmeal to prepare
  • Return a couple phone calls
  • A little administrative work

Have a God-filled day!