Moving to Facebook

My blog update has been moved to Facebook.

We'll see if that helps me stay current...if not I'll come back

Andy

Fantasy Christian

Each week millions of people play Fantasy Football.

Fantasy football is a game in which participants (called "owners") are arranged into a league.

The person who creates the league is called the commissioner, and that person invites other owners into his/her league. Each team drafts or acquires a team of real-life players and then scores points based on those players' peformance on-the-field.

It's a fun way to compete with your friends to see who can predict who'll peform the best when it counts.

What's interesting is that each week a player is given a "projection," or a best guess of to how many points they'll score against their opponent. Some weeks the projection is right on and other weeks the player performs poorly.

The weekly projection got me thinking about my life (and other Christians) and I wonder what projection I'd be given.

Each week we are called to imitate Christ and do our best against our opponent.

I realize we can't do it on our own but our works are a measure of our committment to Christ.

The saddest reality for me is that my Fantasy Football league is just for fun but in real life there are no Fantasy Christians - this game counts.

Today's Walkaway: How are you playing the game? If I were to project how well you'd do next week in your walk with Christ would you score big or be a bust?

True Worship

Big thought for the day - intimacy = reproduction

I heard Ed Young Jr. say yesterday that "true intimacy in worship will result in spiritual reproduction."

That's an amazing line.

Too often we say we are worshipping God BUT our churches, our Christ-like influence is not growing.

There are no spiritual babies.

Paul (writer of much of the New Testament) says in Col. 2 - that they (devoted followers of Christ) be "spiritually mature in Christ."

I trust that when I'm spiritually mature in Christ, I'll be growing in my committment to Christ. And if my committment to Christ is growing I'll have true intimacy with Him. And I pray that as a result of my intimacy with Christ I'll see spiritual reproduction.

Today's Walkaway: How is your intimacy level?

Intimacy is both the ability and the choice to be close, loving, and vulnerable. Intimacy requires identity development.

Take some time today and choose to remember "Who you are," "Whose you are," and "What you're called to do."

That's intimacy!

Brooklyn's #10

My daughter, Brooklyn turned 10 over the weekend.

Wow - 10 years.

We invited 10 of her friends to go rock climbing and had an amazing birthday party for her. Beth and I wanted to make her day special.

Fast forward through the day to bedtime as we are saying our good-night's, Brooklyn told us she had an amazing day.

To hear her talk and see her grin caused me to feel such joy. I find it such an honor to be a parent.

One of the highlights of life is simply to spend time with my children. I think that often times LOVE is spelled TIME.

Happy Birthday Brooklyn

your decisions cost you...

I've always heard that your decisions determine your destiny. That is, what you do will ultimately determine the direction and outcome of your life.

I always thought it'd be interesting to see what a dumb decision would financially cost. I mean if we could quantify the value of a mistake what would it be.

Well, I came across this article that answers the question. Super Bowl star Plaxico Burresswas suspended for one game by the New York Giants. He made a mistake (we all have, I'm not picking on him) and it cost him. The exact details - Burress will lose two paychecks under the suspension. He will not be with the team during the bye week and won't be allowed to practice with the team next week. His base salary under the new contract is $2 million. His suspension will cost him $235,294.

Say that outloud - $235,294! Maybe one more time - $235,294.

Even if you are making $2 million a year that's still a lot of cheddar.

Today's Walkaway: This football players mistake cost him a lot of money. We are able to see exactly what it cost. He'll pay the fine and live to play another down. But what about you and me?

When we make a mistake/sin, we can't just write a check and restore a relationship or say "I'm sorry" and repair a reputation.

Our decisions really do cost us...how much...I'm not sure...but remember that our decisions really do determine our destiny.

Holding Pattern

Have you ever been in an airplane and you're ready for takeoff but you're stuck in on the ground. Most likely, you're experiencing what is known in the airplane world as a 'holding pattern.'

Holding Pattern: Def. A state of waiting or delay;

I currently find myself in that situation. I'm ready for a change, I'm not sure when or where that change will occur and I feel like in stuck in pause.

As I prepare for takeoff I'm realizing that the preparation to fly is just as important as the flight itself.


My ability to "fly" will be determined by the disciplines I develop while on the ground.

Disciplines are tough to stay dedicated to.

We all want to - get in shape, eat healthy, make good choices, etc. But the want to and the will to are in direct conflict.

So I'm challenging myself to make the most of the holding pattern and learn what I need to while I'm circling the runway.

Today's Walkaway: Life is full of delays. We don't always get what we want when we want it. I've seen people lose their cool in their holding pattern and forfeit what could (should) have been theirs. My prayer (for me) is that we'll learn all we need to learn in this process of patience.

No Power

During the Windstorm of 2008 (Hurricane Ike) we lost power BUT the Warren5 made the most of it.

With candles burning and a great attiude our family had a great experience of making the most of a difficult situation.

And estimated half million are out of power in the Dayton area.

During this experience it's been incredible to see God's favor.

Our neighbor sent her kids down and informed us she had breakfast ready for her family and invited us to join them. Bacon, Eggs, Pancakes on the grill! We had a great time of hanging out. Then my other neighbor let me borrow his lawnmower (my has an attitude) while I got my yard cleaned up.

We had to cancel our small groups and youth service for the week so I'm spending time at a local coffee shop that has free wi-fi.

Today's Walkaway: Psalms 118:24 This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice IN IT and be glad.

Andy Warren 2008

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facebook updated

My facebook page with pictures has been updated!

laugh

Last night at dinner the Warren5 sat down to dinner and had a great time of being together as a family.

School & soccer have started, our busy life at church, and my kids 'new social life,' all add to a schedule that can easily become overwhelming.

Beth and I really try to make sure that we eat dinner (at the table) as a family as often as we can during the week.

Last night we laugh (a lot)! It felt great.

Spending 30 minutes at a dinner table might seem like such a small thing right now but I know as the years move on the memories and conversations we have as a family will have huge benefits.

Today's Walkaway: Be intentional. Whatever you do, whatever you say, wherever you are, have a goal of what you what to accomplish and work at it with all your ability. My goal last night wasn't to laugh a lot and have this great memory. The goal was to spend time as a family and the byproduct of that goal was the laughter and memory. I know I can't make those things happen but I can be very intentional about making time with my family happen.

What's an area in your life you need to be more intentional about?

Two Goals

Soccer Update:

I have three children all in three different soccer leagues. It's going to be a fun season.

Well, I am helping coach Gabe's 8-9 year old league.

The other night he got hurt early in the game but shook it off and kept playing. I am so glad he did.

He played the best game of his life (OK - he's only been playing three years). But he scored TWO GOALS, had an assist and played some incredible defense. I was so proud as a dad (I have to admit I teared up a bit).

It was amazing experience for Gabe and I to share together and one that is now an incredible memory for us to have.

Today's Walkaway: Life Experiences (good & bad) give us a better understanding of who we are and what we are made of.

Reminding ourselves that we ARE created in the image of God shoots peace and confidence into our lives. We should be quick to remember that when we experience life.

Who are you?

I just got out of a meeting where we discussed who we are as church. It's such a great (and challenging question).

Who are we? As a church who are we?

What is our purpose? Now I know a lot of people will say well we exist to "love God and love others," or we are to fufill the 5 purposes of the church: We will have discipleship, worship, relationships, outreach and ministry.

But does that alone answer who we are?

So often the church (and followers of Christ) operate without really knowing who they are.

I like the illustration I once heard of a man who was bowling with a blindfold. When he asked how he was doing, the answer was "does it really matter, you can't see what you're aiming at anyway."

We left our meeting with a charge to really pray and discover who we are?

Today's Walkaway: It matters so much to discover who you are b/c it gets to the heart of how you'll function in life.

Whether it's on a team, in a church or in your business if you're not what you're contributing to the big picture you'll not have a vested interest in the results.

A few weeks ago I watched the Cincinnati Bengals practice and for what it's worth I can catch a football way better than Shayne Graham. But how he catches doesn't matter b/c he's the kicker. And Shayne Graham was one of the best kickers in the NFL last year. He doesn't get upset b/c he can't catch a pass b/c he know he's a kicker.

He knows what to aim for.

So who are you?

Firsts

I just got back into the office. I slipped out for a long lunch to hangout with my kids after their first day of school.

They were so excited about school. They had there new school clothes, back packs and lunch boxes. As I listened to their little voices talk about how cool school was it was a great shot of encouragement to me. They told some cool stories and we just laughed at a few first day things they encountered.

It reminded me that life is often best lived through the eyes of children. Everything is so brand new to them and they have this contagious spirit that can recharge you (even when you're having a rough week).

So to Brooklyn and Gabe I say "thank you" for reminding me of the important things.

Today's Walk-Away: Take a minute or more and re-evaluate what makes you smile. And if it's been a while since you've smiled think about your days of the school playground when all that mattered was who could jump higher and run faster.

mowing your grass (AT NIGHT)

I have heard of wearing your sunglasses at night (feel free to sing or hum the song while you read this) BUT I've never heard of mowing your grass at night.

A few weeks ago I heard my neighbor mowing their grass in the dark. Now, I know it's summer and I don't mean it's late in the evening b/c the days are longer, kind of dark. I mean it is after 10:00 PM and I hear the lawn-mower fire up. One more detail - this lawn-mower isn't the cool John Deere kind that has a head light on it. It's just an ordinary, run of mill, push lawn-mower.

So I thought maybe it was just a fluke and my neighbor had a really busy week and this was the only time he could do it - UNTIL a few days ago. He was mowing his yard again in the dark.

What's the deal?

It would be one thing if the result of him mowing in the dark made his yard look better but in my humble opinion it doesn't.

How about you and your life. Are you mowing (living your life) in the dark?

fishing

I'm not a fisherman! I pretend to be one for ONE weekend a year. It's not that I'm a girly guy who won't touch fish or can't bait a hook. It's just I don't normally find the time or really have the desire to do it. Now when I do go fishing I really enjoy it. It's relaxing and frustrating at the same time.

Well last weekend was my ONE weekend a year. I caught a fish BUT what I really wanted to brag on today was my son's fish.

Check this out:

That is Gabriel's almost 20 inch large mouth bass. He was so proud it. He invested his time (fishing), didn't get frustrated, and fished in the right location and it paid off.

Sounds like really good LIFE advice.

Our investments and our attitudes have a lot to do with what we catch in life.

My walkaway: What you sow you eventually reap. I had a converstation with someone who is doing something the right way it's paying off for him. He's had some difficult seasons in life but I'm excited about where God is leading him. It's neat to see what happens when you invest and have the right attitude along the way.

autograph

Thursday, my son, Gabe & I went to Georgetown, KY to watch the Cincinnati Bengals Training Camp. We had such a great time and I'm planning on making it an annual Father/Son tradition. The highlight of our day came at the very end of our day at the camp.

We had got several autographs but the ONE he wanted was none other than the starting QB and 2006 Pro Bowl MVP, Carson Palmer. I had heard through a few different guys that day that's Palmer's autograph was a tough one to get.

So I shared that with Gabe and we agreed we'd try. Well at the end of the day after waiting in the almost 100 degree heat - I got it!

He was thrilled.

It was the perfect cap to an incredible day with my son.

On the way home Gabe said he had such a great day and said, "thank you daddy for taking me."

I almost cried!

It was such a moment to able to spend quality time with him and talk about life and watch how God shaping him into such an incredible young man of God.

Wal Mart

Maybe the Church Should Become a Little More Like Wal-Mart…

What is the price or value of a soul?
$215,000.

That’s the price that Wal-mart has put on each of their customers. I got this email today that talked about a documentary on CNBC about the inner workings of Wal-mart. It was a very interesting program. One of the main things that stood out to me is that Wal-mart has done extensive research into their business.

If, for example, I go into my local Wal-mart store and get bad service; can’t find what I need; have to wait in the checkout line too long; or anything else that really makes me upset, Wal-mart knows that they have a lot to lose.

In fact, they’ve calculated the value of what I’m worth to them. If I get mad at Wal-mart and never return, I have just cost the company (on average) $215,000. That’s how much sales they have figured they will lose from the average customer over their lifetime if they don’t come back...

Wal-mart puts a high value on me and every other person and family in my community.
Many churches, on the other hand, seemingly couldn’t care less about the people in their community. Sure, we give them lip service, but when it really comes down to reaching our target, many of us are too busy arguing about carpet color, worship styles, and how much to ‘give’ to missions in Africa, all the while missing the main point of reaching our own community for Christ.

Wal-mart provides diapers and socks and hemorrhoid cream for a profit.
The church offers eternal life and salvation for free.
Shouldn’t our communities know we value them at least as much as Wal-mart?

FOR DISCUSSION: Here’s today’s questions for you:

Does your church value people more than Wal-mart? --If so, what does that look like in your community? --

Who is better at reaching their audience in your community? Your church or Wal-mart?

Does your church even have a specific target audience?

Does your church have a specific plan to reach that audience? --If your church shut down today, would your community notice? And if they noticed, would they care? --

What is your church offering your community that no one else can or does?

Facebook

Just updated my facebook page with a bunch of new pics!

Relationship Building

Sunday Night our High Schoolers met at a local park for a picnic! We had so much fun. Students were playing Ultimate Frisbee, Football, Volleyball, & Cornhole.

The best part of the night was the last hour were a lot of just sat around telling stories and or jokes and chillin. That was were the relationship building took place. It's awesome to see that dynamic happen when it's unplanned. The best moments in life are that way I think.

By the way, a cool dad moment happened too! When I was playing football, my son Gabe was watching and I caught a sweet pass for TD. It's always fun to play and it's cool to win but it's an indescribable feeling to see your son smile at you like you're the best dad in the world.

And our football team won the game and afterwards I jogged two miles home. Just bragging!

Philadelphia

I'm in Philly! Blogging from the roof of a five story home in Philadelphia.

A group of 10 of us left this morning for a week to work with Highway Tabernacle A/G in downtown Philly. There is such excitement among our group as we are working with about 130 kids from the neighborhood. My students will be trained in how to lead and organize different projects as well as take part in a few work projects.

Highway Tabernacle is such an incredible landmark. It was built in 1850 and is the 2nd oldest A/G church. Think about that...in was the 2nd A/G church started in America. It is so humbling to be walking around the church and just spending time with God.

I can only imagine the incredible services that have happened in this church over the past 150 years. I hope to have have a few this week!

Feedback

I got some great feedback from our youth service last night. A few highlights, a few insights - and thankfully no lowlights. The feedback was good and timely and allowed me to view our ministry to high school students from someone else's perspective.

There's a proverb that says, "as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." I love that verse! Feedback is a form of sharpening. It's allowing someone to invest into your life with information that can potentially help you in your life, career, or relationships.

I am a sponge when it comes to feedback. I like to get it so I'm able to process what the person said and apply it to what needs corrected.

Sadly, a lot of people hate feedback. They get defensive (I used to), judgemental (I used to), and in a bad mood (OK, sometimes I still do) when they get constructive or negative feedback.

I have learned to appreciate feedback b/c the person giving you the feedback has taken the time to evaluate your performance or attitude in a given situation and is willing to help you grow and get better at your job or in your relationships.

I have learned that I also need to ask for feedback. Asking for it implies I want to get better.

So have you recieved any feedback lately?

Bad Dreams

My youngest daughter, Emma, who is 5 has been having a 'really bad dreams,' the past few nights. She will wake up crying and it breaks my mine and my wife's heart to hear her talk about her 'really bad dreams.'

It's during these moments that we really depend on God's direction and wisdom.

We wanted to be proactive and introduce a few spirtual practices she can do herself. I don't believe you are ever too young to learn about God. With that being said, we have begun to teach her Psalm 4:8 I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
As well as setting up a CD player with Praise & Worship and praying WITH her before she goes to bed.

I want Emma to see her parents look to God for help in times of need instead of just trying to talk our ways out of a situation.

In life we often go to God as a last resort and wonder why things have gotten to out of control.

I know Emma may still have a bad dream here and there but she'll know that God is with her and her parents are trusting God for the quality and direction of her life.

Summer Camp

Heading to Heartland Campgrounds in Columbus, OH!

Off to a week a camp. I love summer camp. It's a great week to connect with other youth pastors as well as watch God do some pretty incredible things in the lives of students all across Ohio.

8

Gabe (my son turned 8 this week).

My dad & I went purchased him this for birthday...

It's so incredible to watch him grow. He is a passionate young man with a heart for God and football! Sometimes I like to just watch him play or read or sleep. It's amazing to see him do or say things that I do or say. It's both honoring and humbling.

I want to be the best Father I can be and I realize that only happens when I'm connecting with my heavenly Father.

I love John 5:19 Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

Not only a great verse but a life lesson.

As Gabe watches me he'll follow my example.

Today's Walk-away: You are an example. Whether you want to admit it or not people look up to you. It may your positive attitude at work or the way you're always bragging on your wife or the way you handle your finances. Don't run from being an example. Embrace and use it to bring God glory!

Adrenaline

This was a great week for our High School mininstry at CLC.

Tuesday we kicked off our Summer with a concert and cookout. Had our highest attendance of the year. It was an amazing night of building relationships and having a blast. Then we took a group of 15 to the Children's Medical Center to hand out Teddy Bears. And finally capped it off Saturday by taking a bus full of students to Cedar Point.

The highlight of the day was definately riding the Top Thrill Dragster. All that needs to be said is: 120 MPH in 3 seconds - 410 feet up then 410 feet down - all in 17 seconds.

It was quite an adrenline rush! I'm not sure what it is about adrenaline rushes but I love them.

Life is full of adrenaline rush opportunities but as fun as it is to get your blood going and experience that excitement that's NOT going to sustain you day-to-day.

The disciplines I form are what create health and sustainability.

I love thrills but I know they are always short lived.

Today's walk-away: Life's thrills can easily become a moving target. What thrills you today bores you tomorrow.

Junkless June - it's ON

It's ON baby. Junkless June started yesterday.

I'm really excited about this challenge. It's going to be tough but rewarding. A few of my friends are their friends are jumping in on junkless June.

Here's a quick rundown of Junk-less June.

The Goal:To break myself from things that I eat/drink that isn’t the best for me. They may not be awful, but if you think you can’t go without for 30 days – then maybe you need to. I am doing this to gain self-control and possibly shed a few pounds. The heart behind it is to not allow anything to have control over me. If I say “I can’t go without (blank)” then I need to just so it doesn’t have control over me. If you think you can but aren’t willing to try then you may want to pay attention to the truth – YOU CAN’T!!!

The rules: I have submitted 3 things that I think will be the hardest to go without for 30 days.

If I cheat I owe a $5.00 penalty. I think the penalty has to hurt. If it were only a quarter or dollar – it'd be too easy to cheat. The penalty has to be painful. There is a $20 “I am a loser without any self control, so I quit” fee.

In other words, if I quit I still owe all the penalty money AND a $20 fee.

The Rewards: I am sure it will benefit me physically and mentally and just being able to have the self-control is a huge battle I hope to win. (Galatians 5)

The winner: The person who wins (cheats the least amount of times) wins all the penalty money. If there is more than one person that “wins” – we will split the money.

If you want to jump into Junk-less June you need email Gary Fowler @ fowler163@yahoo.com

Good Luck!

lil'l toes

This is my wife's little toe!

She broke it yesterday (as if you coulnd't tell by the pic - you can't look away can you?)

She stubbed it into the corner of a wall and the wall won.

My beautiful wife (toe and all) is lying on the couch playing the 'it doesn't hurt that bad, I'll be fine' role. She can walk but painfully and with a limp.

It got me thinking about the 'lil toes' in our life. Your little toe makes up about 1% of your total body mass - I figured 1% b/c some of you have huge little toes - you know who you are!

Injuring 1% of your body can cause you to be unable to do the simplest of things like walking.

When it comes to our life what 'lil toe' issues do you have?

Maybe it's your thought life. That ONE thought keeps you from being all God has for you.

Maybe it's your mouth. Those STUPID things you say keep you from being taken seriously.

Maybe it's your wallet. The GOT TO HAVE items keep your from being free from debt.

Today's walkaway: 1% is a huge number when you think about it. I've heard it said that 99% obedience to God is 100% disobedience. I'd encourage you today to look at your life and check your little toe and see if there are any injuries that could cause your walk to be hindered.

intentional

Beth and I have been pretty good at creating a great (not a good) monthly activity for the Warren5 to do once a month. It stretched us to be creative, intentional and to plan ahead.

This past week, the Warren5 headed to see a Dayton Dragons game. The Dragons are the farm team for the Cincinnati Reds.

We showed up an hour early and each of the kids got a FREE hat, met a bunch of players and about 16 autographs.

Then we got to sit in the rain for an hour. Despite the rain we had so much fun. Our had a blast! It was so awesome as parents to listen to our kids thank us and tell us how much fun they had.

Today's Walk-away: Be intentional! Whether it's as a parent or as a ministry leader being intentional causes us to plan and take things to a level of excellence verses just settling for an average day. God didn't create us to be average.

process

Process is defined as a course of action to get an objective accomplished. This past weekend we had our graduation service at CLC. We had 52 graduates recognized. The process we had went flawless until...(insert oh crap! now) after service.

Unfortunately ONE Senior showed up who was not included in the presentation. Today we will meet to discuss the process and how to better include everyone.

Feedback is so important and being willing to try new things is imperative when it comes growth. So often we want to try to just assign blame to make ourself feel better but in reality it's all about making sure that the ONE doesn't get missed.

I realize that I (we) can only do what we can do but making sure that I've done all I can do is the goal.

Today's Walkaway: Good isn't good enough if better is possible. Sometimes I hate that statement but it works as such a great filter to life. Being a good dad isn't good enough if I can be a better dad. Being a good husband...being a good friend...you get the picture...

How are the processess in your life working...are they just good enough?

daddy day

A few months ago I began doing 'daddy days.' Every Saturday I take one (of three) of the kids out for donuts and something. We'll go to the Pet Store, the Airport, looking at cars, etc. but basically it's just spending 1 on 1 time with one of my incredible children.

Today, Brooklyn and I went to the pet store and purchased her first fish.

She is so excited to have him and to have the job of taking care of him.

I hope her excitment lasts and she'll have this cool looking fish for awhile.

Today's Walkaway: Getting something new is always so much fun but that emotion wears off and then the responsibility of care kicks in. Whether it's a fish or your faith emotion is fine but having the conviction to remain committed is key.

Just a thought about...

So I was eaves dropping (I hope that's spelled right) on someone's conversation yesterday...everyone's does it...and this person said, "Give me a number I can reach you at." As I thought about that statement I thought - that's so ridiculous. I mean unless this person got a lot of bogus numbers from girls in High School, what other kind of number is there. Can you imagine responding to him, "Hey, here's a number you CAN'T reach me at." I wanted to jump into the conversation and comment but I refrained myself.

Today's Walkaway: So often what you say reflects your thought process. You've heard it said, "Think before you speak." This saves me from looking dumb and God knows I need that as often as possible.

Today's Feedback: Send me some dumb statements...

Here's mine - (let me set the context) - it's Sunday Morning and the P&W leader says, "Everyone stand to your feet." Think about it...

Columbus, OH

I'm off to Columbus for a few days for our District's Annual Meeting. It's a great few days of reconnecting with friends.

This year is a BIG year as we are electing a new District Superintendent. I have been praying that God's will is done and our new superintendent will take Ohio to the next level. It's exciting to be a part of growth and I'm expecting our new leader to do that for us.

On the flip side it is equally as depressing when you're not growing. Whether it's my life, my church or my district remaining stagnant is draining.

Doug Clay (our current superintendent) has done an amazing job and his shoes will be hard to fill. From day one his mission was clear (that's a sign of a great leader): Resource Church Health. I know God has huge things in store for Him as well as Ohio.

We'll miss you Doug!

Today's Walk-Away: Vision is contagious. People will always follow a great vision. Vision draws, excites, connects and energizes people. If your life were to have a one-sentence vision, what would your vision say?

Snooze

Beth went to wake Emma (our five year) up and she responded by saying, "Just five more minutes." I guess she wasn't ready to wake up.

A lot of us are like that...we rarely like to wake up. There are so many factors to our 'just five more mintues.' It's raining, I went to bed late, it's been a long week, it's Sunday. So we snooze!

I think it's easy to snooze. It's almost effortless.

The painful admission is that a lot of times I can find myself 'snoozing in life.' Missing out on opportunties that God is providing all b/c I want to just snooze.

There's a saying, "You snooze - you lose."

I don't want to lose anything. Time with my wife. Memories with my kids. Experiences with God. They are all so valuable.

Today's Walk-Away: Ephesians 5:14 says, Wake Up... I want to live my life ready to experience all that God has and not snooze my way to losing what He has.

setting the bar low so you can succeed!

I watched the improbable game 7 Sunday between the Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks. The Celtics were supposed to crush the Hawks - that didn't happen. Boston won the seven games series and all is restored in the NBA world.

What I found so interesting is what happened AFTER the game. After Boston won they celebrated like they had just won the World Championship. I mean they were jumping in the air, chest bumping (I do that with my peeps too) and acting like beating the worst team in the playoffs was a big accomplishment.

They celebrated, to me, too much for a first round series win.

Now that leads to me (and you)

How often do we celebrate things that as fully devoted followers of Christ should be common by products of our lives.

I put my tithe in the offering today God. ("uhhh...thanks" - God)

I read my bible...

I didn't kick any cats!

I think sometimes we set the bar too low as followers of Christ and then feel way too good when we succeed at meeting our low expectations.

Maybe it's time raise the level of expectation?

encouragement

I made someone's day today! It took about 30 seconds to make a phone call and tell someone what a great job they're doing serving our church.

As a pastor I make a lot of phone calls asking people to help with this or to volunteer in an area but ONE THING I try to do more than the recruting stuff is to make phone calls to make people's day.

People love to hear they're doing a great job and I've noticed if you look you'll find something they're doing great. "Hey you're doing a great job doing nothing over there."

They'll get the point. But seriously, I once heard, "encouragment is like oxygen for the soul."

We all could use a little encouragement.

So sometime today - encourage someone!

ouch!

Yesterday I bit my tongue and WOW did it hurt. Now before I get too far into this I'm not comparing this to snapping your ACL or anything but two days later every word I say really hurts. I mean it hurts to swallow!

Got me thinking (I don't do that often) about what I say and now that it hurts to talk I'm much more intentional about what I say. Maybe it's a blessing in disguise. Too often we don't think enough about what we are going to say and just blurt something out.

I guess my application is - learn to think before you speak. We've all heard that before and we all know it but I've been chewing food for a lot of years and still bit my tongue.

the circus is in town

I took the kids to the circus Friday night. We had a blast! When we got to the UD arena they had lots of carnival-like rides and things you could spend your $$$ on. I tried to shield my kids eyes to protect my wallet. So we get in line to get our tickets and the guy behind the counter says, "Welcome the Circus!" He asked my kids if it was there first time at the circus - they said, "YES." So he says, "how does the front row sound?"

They were so excited. We came into the arena and I showed the kids how close to all the action we were.

Before the circus started I took them to the top of the arena. It was in the nose-bleed seats. The circus looked really small way up there. There wasn't as much energy and I felt really disconnected. The kids were anxious to get back to the front row.

I started thinking about where were sitting and how that relates to God.

The closer I am to God the more excited I am and the more I want to be a part of the action. When I drift in my relationship I feel disconnected and wish I was closer to Him.

Today's Point: Closeness to God is a choice. I choose today my level of engagement and involvement with him. I can be active and my attitude can be postive or I can choose to, as some football players do, sit this play out. But I need to remember that that where I sit is up to me.

popsicles & prayer

Today is my day off! The weather is beautiful and I don't have a lot to due BUT I'm staying indoors with my daughter Emma. Why? She is sick! Yes, sick includes several trips to the white throne! Who knew a five year could have that much inside of her. (Sorry about that visual)

I feel helpless. She has a fever and just wants to lay on the couch, watch TV and rest and eat popsicles!

I wish I could do something or switch places with her. It's difficult as a dad to sit back and watch your child be sick.

So, I pray for her and hold her and pray some more. There's somethig about praying for your child and the incredible bond it develops. I'm sure the prayer works but I'll keep feeding her popsicles too!

dream big

I sat down today with my associate youth pastor and began planning out our 2008-09 calendar year. We are planning events, services, outreaches and missions opportunities. After four cokes and a great meal we have a rough outline of our year looks like.

As we were planning we started to dream of what could be...I once heard that conviction is 'the belief that something could be fueled by the belief that it should be.'

As I dream big for our student ministry I have a conviction that the bigger I dream the more students we will reach and the more students we reach, the more students we will see become followers of Christ.

Dreaming big is exciting which leads me to the NEXT BIG THING...I'm going to go pray for God's blessing on these BIG ideas.

Sleeping Dogs

Ever once in a while something happens and you wonder why in the world you did "that" or said "it." You wish you could take "that" or "it" back but you can't. So you're left with a choice.

How do you make "it" better? Because let's be honest we've all done or said something that we know we should not have but the real test of wisdom is what do you do AFTER the sleeping dog is awake.

And how do you make "it" better in the long run?

I think the most important thing I've discovered is to learn how to pray about your next step.

From Moses to Nehemiah to Paul we see how when a circumstance has the potential to get ugly prayer is crucial.

When we pray, we get God's perspective on the situation and more importantly His desired outcome. ABW verse: We SHUT UP and let God work.

When we just react, we get our perspective on the situation and try to get our desired outcome, which is usually trying to prove how right I am and how wrong you are! ABW verse: We ignore God and make a the mess even worse.

So this week if you happen to do "that" or say "it" remember God can make "it" better or you can make it worse.

12 years!

Beth and I celebrated 12 years of marriage yesterday! (That's US in Hawaii 12 years ago - just kids!)

Wow...12 years.

It's been so much fun. My wife is my best friend and I can't imagine life without her.

It's incredible how ONE woman can make me feel so confident and provide clarity when I need it. How she can make a negative situation not seem so bad and she make me smile by just walking into a room!

We made a decision early on in our relationship to speak words of encouragment to each other and never use words to cause injury.

We've seen so many couples use negative words from their past, or from each others mistakes, or from life's hurt and take those words and damage their marriage.

I proud of our marriage and the example we've set in front of others and our children. It's been a lot of fun and at times had it's frustrations and through it all God has been so faithful.

It's been an amazing journey thus far and I'm looking forward to everything God has for our next dozen years.

So to my beautiful wife: I love you!

And oh...to my faithful readers - I didn't forget the roses...

plan A

This week I learned a great lesson. I had a meeting with my pastor and he asked me about a presentation I was giving. Our church is raising money to help bring much needed relief to the country of Swaziland. Swaziland's AIDS crisis is now making national news. 1 in 10 will live to the age of 35. Over 40% of the country of Swaziland has AIDS. So we are making an effort to help.

I shared with him my thoughts, my big idea and how I was going to pitch my idea to raise money. Then I leaned back in my chair and waited for him to say, "good job!" He responded with - "What's your plan B?"

To which I responded, "I don't need a Plan B - plan A is soooo good that it's all I need."

We talked about that for a few minutes and Pastor Stan helped me realize that yes plan needs to be a good one but in case it misses the mark...have a backup plan.

Well, Tuesday night I made the presentation and Plan A went over great BUT I am currently working on a Plan B.

You see, even though the response for Plan A was incredible (I told you it was a great plan) I am working to a Plan B just in case the response to the incredible Plan A isn't.

My Point: Being prepared is so important. I never want to be caught looking like I wasn't ready for something to happen when if I would have just thought through the situation I would have. That's called process. I'm learning that the more process (thinking, evaluating, Plan B's) I do the more success I'll have.

The Move

This week is the week! My family is moving to Dayton, OH. It's been about a six month journey but we are finally taking the leap of faith.

Our house hasn't sold but I trust God. The kids are ready to roll and I'm ready to live with my wife again.

We've got the biggest truck you can get (26 ft.) and the fun begins Thursday morning.

I look back on this experience and as tough as it's been I believe my committment to family is stronger than ever.

It's been a time where I have learned to appreciate family time and that's a lesson that you can't place a dollar on.

And oh...a quick shout out to my wife, Beth. You're amazing! I know you hate boxes right now but it's almost over!

TMI

We had a great road trip! I took a group of 11 to Springfield, MO to visit Evangel University and we had a great time.

Over 20 hours in a van. Now spending 20 hours in a van with the same group has the potential for a lot of things to happen. Fortunately, the 20 hours served as some really good bonding time.

On our trip we met someone who loves to talk. Who always seems to give TMI (too much information)

I find these people fascinating. As they are talking it's as if they are the only person alive and their stories are so amazing that Hollywood is wanting to use them for movies. TMI!

To all the TMI people I must say this: Keep it up! Your information sharing allows me to daydream and organize my thoughts and figure out what I'm going to wear for the next month. I appreciate it.

Road Trip

Heading to Springfield, MO in a few hours. I am taking a van full of students to Evangel University. The trip should include: a lot of Mt. Dew, barking spiders, a lot of laughing, little sleep, getting lost and some new memories.

The goal of the trip is to allow some students to experience college life. It's such an awesome time for them to see what the future holds. Do you remember when you were charting out the path for your life?

Sometimes it seems like so long ago.

I have found that the direction of our life is a daily choice to make. Today's choices will affect tomorrow's outcome. (Chew on that for a while)

I'm looking forward to viewing this trip through the wide eyes of a few 16 & 17 year olds and remember that my future too is charted out today.

Nose Hair

That is a nose hair! We all have them but HOPEFULLY we trim them. I had a short (Thank God) conversation today with a person whose nose hair was out of control.

It was really quite a sight. The nose hair moved as she (oh sorry I didn't mention that the culprit was a she) talked and besides it being quite a sight it became really distracting.

I wanted to say something but then again if she's taken this long to grow her nose hair who am I to destroy such growth!

My point: We all have things that are distracting to people? We all have annoying habits or weird mannerisms that can be an issue. The key though is allow yourself to be critiqued. The bible says in Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."

Now go look in the mirror and check your nose hair!

RYB for 60 hours!

I've been listening to Andy Stanley's teaching called TEXT and it's really challenging me. His main goal: RYB! (Read Your Bible)

Too often we get detail deep in answering voice mails, returning emails and the daily grind of work that reading our bibles becomes a woulda...shoulda...coulda...type thing.

So this past Sunday I taught on the importance of reading our bibles and taking 5-10 minutes per day to read our bibles. By the way, if you read your bible for 10 minutes a day over the course of a year you would have read your bible for 60 hours! That's 3 1/2 days!

I bet that would change your life.

Andy Stanley's main point: What if God doesn't want to do something but what if God wanted to say something! And what if His primary means of communicating was a txt message - aka: the bible.

Same State

Yesterday my wife texted me this picture from Conneaut, OH.

My kids and some friends built a snowman! Remember those days? Now the reason I'm highlighting my kids winter fun is b/c while they were building this snowman I was driving home from church in Dayton, OH (300 miles away) and it was 62 degrees!

Am I in the same state? Wow! Talk about an extreme change in environment.

That got me thinking about my job and how some people in the church are loving it and spiritually growing and others are well - not!

How does this happen? How can the same church have such wide gaps?

I don't have the answer!

My point though: the extreme change in weather environment is kind of cool and harmless and whether you're building a snowman or wearing a short-sleeve shirt is meaningless. BUT when it comes to church, choosing to avoid growing cold is just that - a choice!

Make it count

Pastor Stan spoke Tuesday night for our Senior High students. He did a great job. I liked how he was true to himself and didn't try to be 25! By the way...he shared that he graduated in 1974 (the year I was born!).

As Pastor Stan spoke I had a cool thought - it doesn't matter how old you are or who you are - what matters is who you know. He spoke on 'making your life count' and that happens when we get to know God's plan for our lives.

He shared a story about a man who was sucessful in life but as he got older had one major regret. His regret was that everyday he was told what to do by an 18 year old. The application was that when this man was 18 years old he decided the course of his life and like it or not that 18 year old's decision would impact the rest of this man's life.

I think so often we are busy deciding what we want to do or asking our friends what they think we should do but rarely ask what is God's plan for our lives.

At our student leadership meeting I challenged our students to memorize Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your plans to the Lord and they will succeed."

I think if we'll do that we'll look back and not regret the decisions we made but celebrate the wisdom God has given us.

basketball practice

Today I took Gabriel (my 7 year old) to a basketball skills practice at his school. When we got to the gym he took off...grabbed a ball and started shooting. I was so proud of how he just jumped in.

During the practice he was taught some basic drills: dribbling, passing, shooting, and defense.

Then came the game a 5 on 5 scrimmage. Gabriel was put on a team and given a jersey. One of the coolest things was whenever Gabriel would score or make a rebound or score he would look over to me to see if I was watching. Of course, I was giving him a handclap and the thumbs up and saying "good - job."

It was a cool father/son moment.

Stand or Sit

My only question to you stand or do you sit?

Let me know?

HERO

There's my little guy...he's got his new Carson Palmer jersey on. Gabriel is 7 and it's like a switch has been turned on when it comes to football. It's football all the time in his mind.

His favorite player - Carson Palmer of the Cincinnati Bengals. Gabriel really admires Carson Palmer b/c he's a great football player BUT (thanks Gary Fowler) Palmer isn't my son's hero.

I think we can easily make actors & athletes into heros when in reality we know very little about them.

What is a HERO? My definition - someone who knows the right thing to do in a given circumstance and always does it. Sounds too simple huh?

A lot of know what the right thing is...a lot of of us sometimes know what the right thing is...and a lot of sometimes even do the right thing...however...are you a person who knows the right thing to do in a given circumstance and always does it?

My prayer is that my son will see his dad model that behavior and become his HERO.

The ultimate HERO - Jesus Christ modeled that for me and we are to follow that example.

So are you a HERO?

wow - the middle finger

some people sigh really loud

some people swear under their breath

some people roll their eyes

and some people - throw up their middle finger

i'm not sure why this seems to help but i guess it does...

last night, i was driving home from buying my kids a valentine's gift. i'm in a great mood, feeling like a great dad, there's a cool song on the radio and traffic is heavy. so i ease into traffic like an old man into a bathtub. i put my blinker on, i wave to the car beside me like 'can i please cut in line' when all the sudden, the car behind the car i'm waving at...honks their horn and throws up the middle finger. wow - the middle finger...are you kidding me...are we in 8th grade or what?

i didn't know what to do...again, i'm in a great mood (good dad feeling, cool song playing) so i just look the other way and say outloud 'wow, the middle finger.'

my point: i can't control what other people do. too often we allow other people's sighing, swearing, and rolling of eyes to affect our great day when all we need to remember is no controls your attitude without your permission.

so go have a great day!

evaluate

I want to gain weight.

I want to get healthier.

I want to grow spiritually.

All things I've said and you probably have too - except you probably wanted to lose weight...

But these are all statements that can only LEAD TO FAILURE!

Why? Because they are not measurable.

I'm taking some time this week to evaluate where CLC's High School Ministry is heading in the next year.

Evaluation is tough but necessary. It's tough b/c you have to measure where you are and honestly evaluate what's working and what's not.

Too often we don't like to be HONEST with ourselves and that can only hurt our health.

So how are you doing? Evaluate some things and be honest.

My point: If you want to grow ADD clarity to your process. For example, this year, I'd like to gain 10 lbs. of MUSCLE, eat healthier by adding some more fruits & veggies and less sweets, and I'd like to grow spiritually by reading 12 great books and reading the bible daily.

I had a little pep in my voice...

The other day someone asked me if I've sold my house yet? We are selling our home and it's been quite a LONG process...

Well back to the question: "have you sold your house yet," I answered, "Nope, not yet but I'm one day closer today than I was yesterday." I had a little pep in my voice - trying not be discouraged BUT their response confused me.

They said, "Well you just need to pray harder!"

The reason I'm confused is I'm not sure how to pray harder. Someone told me last week to just have more faith and it will happen...

I really think it's not about praying harder or having more faith it's about simply trusting that God has my best interest in mind and would never let me go through something without a purpose.

My point: I'm not sure how to pray any harder or how to have any more faith but I do know how to just throw up my hands and say "God I trust you!"

How about you? Got any areas that you need to just throw your hands up and say, "God I trust you!"

Great read!

I just finished reading Andy Andrews book, The Lost Choice. It's one of those great reads. I think reading is one of the best uses of your time and the side effects are a plus!

Here's a brief overview...

Book Description
When a young boy finds a mysterious object in the creek near his home, his parents launch an investigation that will eventually link the ancient object to such remarkable figures as George Washington Carver, Oskar Shindler, Joan of Arc, and Alfred Vanderbilt. Separate pieces of the artifact--with different but similar inscriptions--shape the lives of those who possess the object.
With each new discovery come new questions: What is the connection between these objects? Is there is another piece? And, if so, how might this final piece complete the object and its message? Could it, indeed, change the very world with its power and wisdom?
The books ending reveals not only the origin and fulfillment of this amazing artifact, but also the guiding principles behind this story that can be applied directly to readers' lives. (Bio provided by Amazon.com)

Today's walkaway: I'm trying to read at least one book a month and apply what I read to my life. It's been a great discipline and the life applications and spiritual growth are amazing side effects!

YouTube - Official Video - Don't Blink by Kenny Chesney

YouTube - Official Video - Don't Blink by Kenny Chesney

Emma's 1st day of preschool

Our youngest (Emma) started preschool today! Wow - a whole lot of thoughts - my baby is getting growin' up! She's beautiful isn't she...

I try so hard to make sure that she (and my other two) know every day how much their mommy and daddy love them.

I've been told too many times that their 'this big' and you blink (have you heard the Kenny Chesney song)

So take some time and tell the ones you love how much they mean to you!

don't be stupid - (OK not smart)

We've all done it...something stupid!

An inappropriate comment

A bad purchase

A negative thought

This past weekend I went to the movies and we (my parents & aunt) were discussing what we should go see...you've been there right..."what do you want to see, I don't know what do you want to see"...we were choosing between two movies.

The first one was rated R for a few reasons and so I did something I always do with movies...I put a process between the opportunity and the decision to watch the movie. After this process the decision was an easy one. I chose a PG movie.

I think too often we fail to put a process in our decision making and we end up making stupid decisions.

My point: Life is full of decisions that have consequences and if we fail to plan then we plan to fail at making great choices.

I'm speaking this week on the BQE (Best Question Ever) - Thanks Konan Stephens - and my heart is that we'll be obedient to God's word of asking for wisdom when it comes to lifes choices.

Wow! I'm shocked...that's about all I can say - the past few days I've been hearing about how we (America) could be heading toward a recession. There is talk of tax rebates, presidental hopefuls try to encourage us and Starbucks is even offering a $1 cup of coffee to help boost sales.

Then I read about Shaquille O'Neal. Now before I jump into this, I'm a huge Shaq fan! I think he's a generous man, an amazing baller, and an overall nice guy...BUT...after reading this article of Shaq's spending I'm in shock.

I'm the first to want to have nice things and don't get me wrong I'm glad Shaq can have really, really nice things but...

$17,000 a month in suits

$22,000 a month in maid service

$23,000 a month in gas

Are these figures for real Shaq. You're monthly bill for suits, maid service, and gas are more than I make it a year.

I guess what I'm getting at is we can have all things we WANT in life but without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ your life is going to filled with lots of things but not be fulfilled.

So to my three loyal readers - maybe there's more and anyone else who wants to leave a comment what are the things in your life that give you fulfillment?

Facebook is so yesterday...???

For Christmas my beautiful daughter, Brooklyn, got a Webkinz!


















Here is the entire U.S. Top 10 list of fastest-rising search terms in 2007:
1. iPhone
2. Webkinz
3. TMZ
4. Transformers
5. YouTube
6. Club Penguin
7. MySpace
8. Heroes
9. Facebook
10. Anna Nicole Smith

Thanks to DC Curry for info (gccwired.com)

My Life Week Two

We continued our My Series last night with iPotle. iPotle is a night where we give every student a free Chipotle burito and one lucky students wins a iPod touch.

We had a great night and saw a lot of 1st time guests so now the important process of follow-up begins. I believe that how you follow-up with your 1st timers will greatly determine how many of those 1st timers will become followers of Christ.

Here's the highlights from last nights message:

Our decisions determine our destiny – Proverbs 3:4-5

Key verse: Phil 1:11

January 22nd, 2008 - decision made vs. decision felt…

Some decisions are made and felt immediately - other decisions are made and the consequence isn't felt (experienced) until months or years later.

Weight Lifting/Eating Right/Reading your bible/Prayer - one is not going to help...it's a great start but not going to make you stronger...healthier...or make better decisions.

WHY? Why do choose NOT to make smart decisions…
b/c we like to see how close to the edge (spiritual) edge…we can get before we go to far…

Romans 12:2

Graph #1 Wise Choices - Trusting Oursleves

Graph #2 Wise Choices - Trusting Friends

Graph #3 Wise Choices - Trusting God

Closing - Stop & Stare - One Republic

Congratulations!

This is for my best friend, Matt Oaks.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Matt and I have been on quite a journey the past several months since our resignations in Conneaut. I landed in Dayton, OH and now...drumroll Matt has landed in Hubbard, OH as a Youth Pastor. I am so excited for Matt & Liz.

He said something to me that just made my week. He said that they would continue to plan on visiting Beth and I often. That means so much to me b/c Matt & Liz are like family to us. In fact, our kids call them Aunt Liz & Uncle Matt.

Friends are so important and Great Friends are like icing on a cake. I value Matt's friendship & leadership so much and look forward to continuing our ministry journey together. Even though we are now in different churches now, choosing to remain close is just that - a choice.

How about you? What are some choices that need to be made in your life that will pay huge dividends?

Andy's Life Goals

OK - here it is - my life goals! It's a work in progress and I'm excited to be working on it. It is a lot tougher than I thought it would be. I'd like to have 100 things on my list. It's so important to have goals b/c they are a measuring stick of your life. Too many times I hear I'm 50 and I still have so many things I want to do. My prayer is that by writing down the vision and making it clear I'll stay focused on what really matters in life: my faith...my family...my future...

Today's Life Application: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding and in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight. Proverbs 3

Going to the Troy Christian Basketball game tonight. I'm looking forward to hanging out with some of the guys from U-Turn. Life (ministry) really is all about friendships and friendships are formed by spending time. Too often we lose opportunities to get to know people by not asking the right questions when we hang out. So tonight I'm praying that I'll get to ask some great questions and get to know some pretty cool guys.

Today's Life Application: Show me your friends and I'll show you your future. I believe with all my heart that your friends today will determine your direction tomorrow. So where are you heading...look at your friends.

Brett Farve

OK - so Brett Farve is 38 years old and playing like he's 28. I am rooting for him and the Packers to win it all this year. Farve is playing in his 17th year and his age is allowing him to do some pretty cool things.

#1 He's making much smarter decisions.

His decision making process is amazing. That makes me wonder about ME. My prayer is that as I get older I too will make smarter decisions.

#2 He's having FUN

I've always said, "If you're not having fun being a (christian, husband, dad, employee, etc) then you're doing it wrong."

Watch #4 on the field - he's throwing snowballs and touchdowns and having fun. Life is better when you're having fun.

#3 He's leading.

Brett Farve is leading by example. Last week with his team down 14-0 and his rookie running back fumbling for the 2nd time in as many carries, and his team (which is the youngest in the NFL) needing an example, Brett stepped up!

How about you? When others are watching your life will they see you leading or following. Leadership, simply stated is influence.

Today's Life Application: There is always a process between the opporunity and the decision to do something - have fun, make wise choices, and lead along the way.

connect

How do you connect with others?

Last week I made a phone call to one of my Adult Leaders and this simple phone call has had an impact on several people on staff at our church. The purpose of my phone: to simply connect.

I made the phone call, not to ask for anything, to recruit, or submit a need, I called simply to connect.

I think too often we fail to connect or we try to connect (real quick) before we ask for something and our connection opportunity comes across as less than genuine.

So often our excuse is we don't have enough time so blow that theory up my phone call lasted about 1 minute. 1 minute to encourage someone and make their day.

Today's Life Application: It's the little things that make a BIG difference. People wanted to be valued for WHO they are before their valued for WHAT they can do. Everyone realizes that we need people for what they can do but if we'll get into their world and value who they are we'll see much greater returns on our investment.

My Life Week ONE Talk notes

My Life - Week ONE

Our decisions determine our destiny.

Matthew 4:4 (NKJV): “But He answered and said, ‘It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”

Matthew 4:7 (NKJV): “Jesus said to him, ‘It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’”

Matthew 4:10 (NKJV): “Then Jesus said to him, ‘Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”

Big Point: We’ve got to ‘learn how to discern’

Philippians 1:10 ‘My prayer….is that you may be able to discern what is best…’

Video – Calling

Response: A good look at YOU in 2008

Today's Walk Away - my prayer is that you'll learn to discern what God's best is for your life so that you won't settle for just what's good.

Look at YOU!

Tuesday night at U-Turn we ended by having our students write down, in a word or two, what would define them in 2008. How we did this was really cool: I set up 8 mirrors in our room and had students walk up to the mirror, look at themselves and then write down that word. It was powerful.

Every morning when they look in the mirror I pray that word fuel their day.

Here are a few examples of the word (or two) that our students wrote down:

strength, purity, discipline, example, boldness, peace, trust, energy, evangelism, prayer, hope, love, forgive...

What word would define your 2008?

Today's walk away: God has big plans for you! Too often though we allow the fear of failure or the fear of trusting God to derail God's plan. Take a chance in 2008 - write down a word on your mirror at home that your pray will define your year. ***Note: use a dry erase one!

Willow Creek - Reveal

Took the Reveal Survey yesterday. At CLC we are in the process of having the whole church take the survey.

Willow has done us all a favor by being transparent in their learnings about their own ministry while also challenging all of us to consider whether or not we're really encouraging people to experience spiritual growth. (Tony Morgan)

Today's Walk - Away: How about you? Would you be willing to allow God to reveal where you are spiritually?

I think if all of us be open to hearing from God we would see our walk with God have much more IMPACT!