Fire Chaser

Church Plant

2011-06-16T20:07:00.001-04:00

We are planting a church! My new blog will be on that site: www.elementnj.org

Go check it out!

Moving Day

2010-06-15T23:50:00.003-04:00

Just moved today. I am grateful for all of the friends that helped. It made it a lot easier and went really fast and well. Kelly and I like our new place. It is about the same size but the design makes it a lot more open. We feel like we have more room. The worst part of moving is all the last odds and ends that need to be moved. Tomorrow we will finish that up and hopefully get the place cleaned and ready for check out.

Our goal is that in 2 years our next move is into a place that we own. We shall see and hopefully we can get there.

Refuge

2010-06-14T23:06:00.001-04:00

Core workout today. Great workout. Started week 7 and I'm back on track. Tomorrow is the halfway point. Crazy. I can feel my body getting tired. I hope I can continue to muster the energy to do the workouts.

One word in the Psalms that David uses a lot is Refuge. David understood something very valuable so when we are going through life we need to seek out God as our Refuge not other things. For many your refuge might be your job or money or something else but it is God with whom we need to put our refuge in. If anyone in scripture had plenty of other things other than God to put his refuge in it was David.

Seek Refuge from God.

Junk

2010-06-14T08:23:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I said goodbye to a lot of junk. It is amazing how much piles up over time. It was neat going through memories as well. Some stuff I held onto but the majority of it is gone. It is amazing how my perspective on what to save and throw out changed once I had 2 kids.

I am still on target with P90X. This past week was tough keeping up with it. I missed one day and I'm debating about redoing the week since I did miss one day. We will see how this week goes:)

Complacency

2010-06-11T21:20:00.001-04:00

I got a little complacent in week 6 of P90X. I am still on track but I fell behind for the first time. I am one day behind but will make it up on my scheduled rest day.

It is interesting how complacency set in once I was feeling really good about what I was doing. I think that happens in all areas of life. In the work out I look for ways to jump start it to get beyond complacency and I think in other areas of life I need to find that jump start. Hopefully I can discern well enough in advance to not let complacency really set in. When that happens things start to suffer.

The truly great ones in life never not have complacency set in. The great ones know how to defeat it before it hinders them.

Preparation

2010-06-08T22:33:00.000-04:00

Not preparing is preparing to fail. I am reading through Nehemiah and he was someone who prepared extremely well. He made specific preparations to accomplish his goals. How are you preparing yourself for what God has for you?

Preparing ourselves for worship on a weekly basis involves spending time with Him on our own. It is neat to see a group of believers worshipping God who have been with the father beforehand.

I think if we want to improve our worship experiences it isn't about better muscians, speakers, or getting it better than last time. It is about being with God before we meet. That is the kind of preparation that will powerfully change your worship experience. We all play a part in preparing to worship together.

My 90 day challenge is still on track. I have eaten better this week but that is definitely the biggest challenge right now.

It's about people

2010-06-07T23:12:00.001-04:00

It's about the people not the program. In ministry and life I am learning that we really need to put people first and not just focus on accomplishing the task at hand.

It's tough when we are in such a bottom line driven world. I believe if you put people first and invest in them that the bottom line will take care of itself. I mean just look at how Jesus lived His life. He invested in welve and He changed the world like no other.

Sundays

2010-06-06T21:47:00.001-04:00

Sundays are great days where I get a lot accomplished at church. Today was a very productive day. God taught me a lot about being obedient. Just remain faithful to what God has called you to.

John Wooden died this week and one of the things he taught wa to improve a little everyday. Don't expect dramatic change overnight. That is something that I need to be reminded of. I think with our walk it is obey God everyday and as we do over time we will se dramatic changes.

Can't wait to see what God has In store by us remaining obedient.

Brutal

2010-06-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

It's brutal out there. Just ran 2.5 miles in 30 mins very slow moving with the sub beating down on me. Worked up a good sweat but it was smart for me to stop when I did.

Had a good prayer time with our elders this morning praying for the coming future of our church. Love going before the King in prayer. We also all talked about what God was teaching us and everyone had similar experiences of learning to be obedient. I believe that God is teaching the leaders of the church obedience. I'm definitely learning it.

Love Fridays

2010-06-04T22:22:00.001-04:00

Fridays are my day off and i love them as I get to do things like take Joshua to the pool. Great day of spending time with family and friends. I always enjoy my day off and got to spend some time with friends from school. Hopefully we can stay connected more frequently.

Workout was solid. This week has been harder overall. I'm feeling like the workouts are catching up to me a little bit but I have to keep bringing it and pressing play.

Obey

2010-06-03T18:44:00.001-04:00

If my people...will humble themselves...and seek my face and pray...I will heal their land

It is immediately followed by a declaration for obedience or else...the great thing is now that we have Jesus and if we trust in Him as our Savior there is no or else Jesus loves and forgives no matter what, in the old testament God punished disobedience in our time Jesus was punished for us BUT obedience is still required

When we fall into disobedience we are killing our Savior. This fact alone should drive us to obedience.

I finished 1 Chronicles and started 2 Chronicles still on track to finish in 90 days. Did Yoga X and I am currently a sweaty mess. I have to be honest that I haven't ate healthy much this week. I need to improve that.

Do you hunger for God?

2010-06-02T23:24:00.001-04:00

I love the Apostle Paul. He describes how we are to live the Christian life very well. He is passionate about telling us that God loves us no matter what. God's love for you is not dependent on anything you can do. So when we fall short we can rest assured that God still loves us.

But Paul is also clear that it isn't about not doing the right thing or giving up because we know God will still love us. In fact he talks about pressing on and forgetting our past. Each day is a new day to be like Christ. We are also told that we have the power of Christ in us as Christians who is there to help us do the right thing.

You cannot have faith without works they are always linked. But as Paul is clear about faith comes before works and works are a result of our faith. In fact the closer we get to Christ the more we are in His presence receiving His love the more we hunger for the things of Him.

One thing I'm learning in this 90 day challenge is that the more time I spend with God the more I am hungering for the things of Him.

P90X Works

2010-06-01T21:14:00.001-04:00

Today was cardio and I decided to run for 30 mins instead of the 30 minute cardio DVD and it felt good. I kept my heart rate at the right level and made it farther in 30 mins than I have in a long time. Not sure of the exact distance but it was my normal path when I run and it was longest yet. Awesome to see my training work.

God is teaching me a lot about perseverance and sticking to a plan. In the scriptures many of the ones who did great things you only hear about a handful of their exploits. You don't hear about the hard work and preparation they put in to succeed. Like anyone else I want to do great things for God. To get to those moments it starts with the days that no one will remember and putting in the hard work.

Love God Well

2010-05-31T15:27:00.001-04:00

Loving God means that we should not take advantage of God Grace.

I learned from today's reading that God is very patient. There was generation after generation of the Israelites serving other gods and it took God a long time before they were put into captivity in Babylon. Israel failed to take advantage of Gods patience. I don't want to be one who takes advantage.

A good parallel to this is when Paul talks about taking advantage of Gods Grace in Romans 6. We are not to take advantage of Gods Grace. It eventually caught up with the Israelites and it will eventually catch up with you. I would argue that if you take advantage of Gods Grace for too long you may not be a Jesus follower because if we love Him why would we keep taking advantage of someone we love?

Loving God well is obeying Him and following Him wholeheartedly. Not worshipping other gods and we all have them and if we are honest with ourselves we know what our idols are that we have to stop worshipping over God.

Love God well and destroy your idols.(anything that takes precidence over God)

Pressing On

2010-05-31T10:09:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I took a much needed day off from the 90 day challenge. The workout rest was already built in, I have a scripture day off on Tuesday so I took it yesterday as well as the journaling to spend some quality time with the family. My parents were in town and we spent most of the day after I preached at sesame place. It was awesome to play with Joshua there and see his reaction to the fireworks. He loved them.

Today I begin phase 2 with a good core workout. Looking forward to pressing on in my training.

Now what to do on memorial day looks to be a great day.

Phase 1 Done

2010-05-29T09:20:00.001-04:00

Just completed week 4 of P90X. Monday I head into phase 2. I feel a lot stronger and in much better shape. Now it is time to do some serious burning of calories and lose a bunch of weight. Monday morning before I start phase 2 I will do my one month measurements. I still haven't missed a day.

Day Off

2010-05-28T10:04:00.000-04:00

Today is my day off from work. Don't hate as I work most of the weekend. Busy weekend ahead with preaching, family in town, and Immerse.

Today I'm thinking of going with the family to Sesame Place as well as tomorrow with my parents. Should be good times. We were generously helped out with season passes for our family. Good times.

Today is cardio day in P90X. Looking forward to it actually. I will also finish 1 Kings today. Hopefully I will get oil changed well in our cars, been a while since that's been done.

Training Others

2010-05-27T22:18:00.000-04:00

Today was stretching for an hour and it isn't your old high school stretching before gym class. It really makes you work and sweat. Although not a normal P90X sweat.

I learned about many of the Kings in Israel. I'm again reminded that when leading true success is handing off well. David did not do this well and we see Solomon slowly fall away from God and Israel as well. Slowly they deteriorated to the point where they were serving other gods. Good leadership is leaving well. Leaving well is training your successor well and setting them up for success. David set Solomon up for success but probably didn't train well.

This weekend I am preaching and will be looking at the life of Paul and how he trained well.

Finale week

2010-05-26T21:05:00.001-04:00

One of the things Kelly and I love doing together is watching stories on TV. And this week is a fun week with most of our favorite shows having their finale's exciting stuff. We love a good story.

I'm in a good place mentally with the working out. I feel like it is becoming a habit. I'm feeling more in shape and stronger everyday.

I love reading scripture in order and in large chunks you really get good perspective on what is going on. On to 1 Kings.

Crazy Kids

2010-05-25T19:51:00.001-04:00

David had some crazy kids. One of his sons raped one of his daughters and another killed the son who raped the daughter and that son, Absalom plotted to take the kingdom from his father David and did for a time. Eventually Absalom was killed and David got his kingdom back but David wept and mourned for days for his son. His love extended beyond the betrayal and wrongdoings Absalom had. I believe this is another reason David is a man after Gods own heart because God is much the same. No matter the sin or how bad we think we messed up God still loves us deeply.

I know I love my sons deeply and right now I can't fathom them doing things like Absalom did but I know I would love them just the same. No matter how crazy they get I will love them.

Becoming a warrior=obedience to Jesus

2010-05-24T20:34:00.001-04:00

Braveheart, Gladiator, and 300 have nothing on David from the Bible.

I've been reading a lot about David in my Bible reading and his stories are all about action, adventure, soap opera drama(Bathsheba), and most of all submission to the Father. But no one can say that the Bible is boring. If you do then your saying all your favorite tv shows or movies are boring.

David conquered nations, overthrew governments, enacted justice, was a righteous outlaw, and hardly ever lost but most of all he submitted to and obeyed God.

This is something I think that we can all learn from. David let things happen in Gods timing. He followed and obeyed the Lord wholeheartedly. In today's world, the world of have it your way we push our own will into Gods will for our lives. Not. Good.

The cool thing though is David was called a man after Gods own heart. I think that is why men are drawn to the action movies. We want to be David the warrior but without the obedience. I believe if we would step up and risk out goals to follow God in obedience each of us will live the warriors life like David and truly be men after Gods own heart.

Obedience to God requires sacrifice(you might be asked to give up your plush job), taking risks(new circle of friends or doing things you don't think you can do), possibly losing security($ is not required when following Jesus), but when we obey Jesus it will all be worth it and I can guarantee you that you won't regret it.

Will you be a warrior? Obey Jesus and you will be.

Speaking of warrior i did lots of warrior poses in my workout. Today was yoga and I did the best I've done yet and I'm actually enjoying it.

Learning from my 2 year old

2010-05-23T19:30:00.001-04:00

Part of Saul's downfall was his pride. He lost David as a leader because he was jealous of him. Saul wanted to kill David because he was a better leader. There is a lot to learn from this. Saul became so consumed with getting David that his Kingdom started to suffer. Sometimes we get jealous of those around us. It is not right as it distracts from the purpose God has for us.

Joshua is doing great with Caleb and hasn't really showed any jealousy. One way Joshua showed his love for his little brother is by offering him his blanket. Joshua treasures his blanket so he was really giving Caleb what was most valuable to Him. Saul could have learned something from my 2 year old. I can definitely learn from my 2 year old. Great example Joshua!

Rest day was a much needed break from P90X. I feel good about where I'm at as I head into week 4.

Silence

2010-05-22T10:05:00.000-04:00

We need to all learn to shut our yappers. I am tired of all the complaining. I took our Mexico team to the airport this morning and had a good conversation on the way down in the van about complaining and being negative. There is too much of it going on in the church. But silence I think is on both sides so i will be silent.

I read about Saul becoming king in 1 Samuel. When he became king there were troublemakers
(10:26) who despised him and talked about him behind his back. But it says he remained silent. A lot can be said about Saul and how he fell away from God but there was a time when he was a good man. I know as a leaders in the church we will get despised and people will talk about us behind our backs. I know that happens. I know that I need to be silent as that happens and not just silence for silence's sake but I believe Grace is very present in that Silence. Saul extended Grace by not lashing out. I need to do the same. On the flip side I have got to not be that troublemaker. I need to be the guy that doesn't despise my leaders and this isn't just my direct circle of leaders but in my denomination and government as well.

The work out felt good for the first time this week. Maybe I'm catching my second wind as I head into recovery week. I am done with the intense part of phase 1. Now it's lots of cardio in "recovery" and onto phase 2. 3 weeks are completed and I still haven't missed a day.

Chick Flick

2010-05-21T18:58:00.000-04:00

Hollywood should look to the Bible next time try want to make a best selling chick flick. The book of Ruth has all of the elements of a good one. Girl loses love, is poor, meets rich handsome man, they get married.

The beginning of 1 Samuel Hannah is barren and begs God for a child and she gets Samuel. How awesome and hopeful is that for a woman in the same situation.

I think that the take away is God is in control over all the 'drama' of our life. That's probably why Hollywood wouldn't use those stories because God moved in the drama not just someone 'heart' or 'feelings'.

God cares about whatever situation we are in and wants to make the drama of our lives have a happily ever after but we have to be prepared that itay not exactly look like Hollywood.

The 90 day challenge is one day away from being 1/4 of the way done. I did chest, back, and abs today. Tough but I feel good. I'm taking the Mexico team to the airport tomorrow morning at 4am not looking forward to that. But I am looking forward to seeing what God does in the lives of people on this trip.

Longest yard

2010-05-20T21:56:00.001-04:00

It's ironic that I'm watching the longest yard on TNT and I feel like this week has been the longest yard. I'm praying next week I catch my second wind. Yoga was today and I did better than I have in 3 weeks.

I read judges 3-15 and it was all about following God. If Israel followed God they were blessed. It was a time of leadership unrest with hold over leadership from the system of Judges that Moses had set up. The Judge Jephthath learned that you have to be careful what you promise God. Because he promised God he would sacrifice the first thing that came out of his house when he came home after a war victory he lost his only daughter.

I am learning that God was really setting the tone for His Kingdom and rule in the Old Testament. I think we take advantage of the free Grace we have through Jesus' redeeming love when He went to the cross. Many of us would be dead as well as our whole families because of our sin if we lived in the Old Testament. A humbling fact.

I pray that I might be a man who obeys the Lord.

After effect

2010-05-19T18:35:00.001-04:00

Effective training leads to effective execution. What happens after?

I couple of people ask me today what I will do after the 90 days. My plan is to spend a couple of weeks in maintanence mode which will include running. I will then do another 90 days of P90X with my wife Kelly in the fall.

As far as Bible reading I will pick another reading plan as for my personal time I love reading straight through as it gives me great perspective.

Today I was reading about Joshuas after effect. He had great execution but the one mistake he made was not developing leaders well enough to hand off to. He served the Lord well and when he died Israel fell away from God. It is my prayer that I leave an after effect in any position I hold and especially when it comes to my physical and spiritual health as well as my family.

Don't be a slacker!

Ahhhhhhhhhh

2010-05-18T20:19:00.001-04:00

Ahhhhhhhhhh. This was insanity today. I really want to throw in the towel just one day. It is tough but I don't want to be that guy who quits when the going gets tough.

I read Joshua 1-14 and it was tough for him in conquering Canaan but he had spent years training under Moses and was ready to serve God and lead well. Joshua was in touch with Spirit so he could ask God for things like making the sun stand still. I want to have the character of Joshua so when my time comes I can lead and follow God well. But now I am in training and building the character that will allow me to lead well and I can't quit.

No excuses

2010-05-17T21:02:00.000-04:00

Excuses are for the weak. I will no longer be weak. Wow. Beginning of week 3 and I am battling my mind big time. I willed myself to workout and read today. I honestly felt no desire to do so. In the past i would have came up with a great excuse as to why i shouldnt read or workout.

But I'm glad I pushed myself. I'm going to call this intense week. This is the week we seperate the men from the boys. Who will fall off track and who will stick with it. I for one will stick with it.

No excuses

Anniversary

2010-05-16T18:03:00.001-04:00

I had an awesome anniversary date with my hot wife Kelly last night. We had UNOs pizza and saw Robin Hood. It was awesome to go out as we hadn't been out in probably a month. It was a good time reflecting and just hanging out together.

We have been married 6 years and I can't wait for at least 60 more.

Get off your couch

2010-05-16T17:57:00.000-04:00

and do something. You and I both know that most of us just lay on our spiritual couch or literal couch.

No matter what we say our theology is our actions show us our theology a lot more. I'm reading Deuteronomy and mostly we find love and obedience as interchangeable. In fact Jesus repeats most of these commands in the Gospels. It says that if we love Jesus we will obey what he commands.

Some of us want to do great things for God and yet we can't even get up and open the Bible. What makes us think God will use us for great things when we can't even do the little things.

I am taking this 90 day challenge not just to get in shape spiritually, physically, and emotionally but to change my lifestyle in all 3 areas.

Today was rest day although I did take a mile walk and read Deut. 8-23. I'm praying God does a work in me and all who are doing this challenge with me.

Don't be a slacker.

City of Refuge

2010-05-15T08:45:00.001-04:00

Are you someone people run from when they are in trouble or run to? At the end of Numbers God commands Israel to set up cities of refuge so people who screwed up can have a safe place to live. Are the environments you set up safe? I think too many "Christians" aren't safe and it's clear as we unpack scripture further we are to be places of Refuge.

The early part of Deuteronomy is also great as it talks a lot about obedience and love to God no matter what you are going through. Love and Obedience are always linked here. I am learning that to love God is to obey Him. It isn't just about verbally saying that I love Him. But to be able to love God without it becoming legalistic we have to learn to experience His love because when we do you will not want to do anything but obey Him.

I believe this 90 day challenge and beyond is showing Jesus my love. This morning I finished my last day of week 2 workouts and I am still going strong. Love it.

Today's scripture was numbers 33- deut. 7. It was full of great stuff.

One Word P90X

2010-05-14T16:55:00.001-04:00

It pushes me to my limit everyday. I am almost halfway through phase 1 or 1/6 through the program and I'm already getting great results. Although to this point I've only lost 2.5 pounds I've lost about 2 inches off of my waist which is awesome. I have also not felt better in a long time.

The scripture reading is going great. God is teaching me great things as I'm in Numbers. Today the main part of the passage was when the donkey talked to Balaam. It took an animal to recognize God and communicate that to Balaam. I wonder how often I am so focused on my plan and strategy that I forget or ignore what God is saying like Balaam. It was definitely a great reminder for me.

Happy Birthday Joshua

2010-05-13T23:22:00.001-04:00

Today was Joshuas second birthday and it was a lot of fun playing with him and his new tee ball set. He is a natural. Can't wait to see how he develops as a man. Looking forward to doing life with him.

Today was yoga day which is really hard and works you hard as well.

Scripture was the story in Numbers of the spies with Joshua and Caleb bring back a good report. Hopefully God empowers my 2 sons with their names to make the same kind of stands for Jesus. Love those 2 so much. My prayer for them every night is that they grow up to love Jesus and help others find Jesus' love as well.

Let the Next Generation Lead

2010-05-12T09:42:00.003-04:00

If you are over 50 step aside. ²⁴ "This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years old or more shall come to take part in the work at the Tent of Meeting, ²⁵ but at the age of fifty, they must retire from their regular service and work no longer. ²⁶ They may assist their brothers in performing their duties at the Tent of Meeting, but they themselves must not do the work. This, then, is how you are to assign the responsibilities of the Levites." Numbers 8:24-26

I didn't say it the Bible did. This isn't saying if you are over 50 you have no say or input but to assist. To me assisting goes beyond doing what some young guys says but mentoring them. Make sure that they are being trained well. Provide the insight of the years of service. That is so valuable to the church and we young bucks need that. I like the word assist as it isn't lording over but it is coming alongside. I find it interesting that scripture talks about this. What does that mean for our church today?

I think it is a principle that holds true. I have heard Rick Warren, Andy Stanley, and others well over 50 talk about this idea of the older letting the younger lead. I'm not that old but I know that the way the young teenager expresses themselves in their youth group is the coming way to do church and I should let them do it if I want to reach as many people for Christ as possible.

This was a great reminder from Numbers of all places. Sorry if you are mad but it is just what the Bible said. :)

Today's workout was shoulder, arms, and abs...tough...but I am now on the downslope of week 2.

Frustrating

2010-05-11T23:14:00.000-04:00

Today was a frustrating day. I weighed myself after one week and have lost 1lb. Most of what I'm reading says that's ok as my muscles aren't dormate anymore and they weigh more than fat. But still frustrating. I feel great though and can't wait to see what happens.

Discipline

2010-05-10T10:15:00.002-04:00

Leviticus 1-14 takes a lot of discipline to stick with. I think that Leviticus gets a bad wrap. It can be boring yes. But to me Leviticus is rich with showing us how to worship God. Leviticus lists many ways to sacrifice to God because of our sin. The great thing is the ultimate sacrifice was made by Jesus Christ and we no longer have to abide by Leviticus but what can we learn today. For one we can learn the reverence of worshipping God. Leviticus is very particular about what to do when worshipping God. In some instances when worshipping the presence of God was so great the Israelites fell on their faces. When was the last time the presence of God was so great that we did that? There is particular emphasis on taking care of yourself especially when in God's presence. I think if we all treated coming before God as holy and reverent as it is spelled out in Leviticus we can provide an environment where God can move.

We need to contextualize what reverence today looks like. Here are some of my thoughts:

1. Being with God during your week

2. Taking care of your health (eating right, exercising, etc.... which is why I am doing this 90 day plan)

3. Loving well. Why is it that pagan's love others better than Christians? Ask any waiter or waitress what they feel when they see someone praying before their meal. I will tell you they feel they might get treated poorly and definitely short changed on their tip. This isn't right. There are other examples. I think we don't love well because we don't know how deal with our issues.

4. Deal with your issues. Pagan's love better than us because they can deal with their issues easier because they aren't as afraid of what others think than we are in the church. We have to create an environment in the church where people can talk about their issues and not looked down upon. It is natural for people in the church not to tell others their issues because you lose status in the church if you have issues. In the world typically nothing is gained nor lost based on issues. Because pagans know everyone has them. To find people who deal with their issues is easy. Take a risk and open up to someone and deal with them.

5. Passionately pursue the lost. Lost people matter to God and he wants them in His church. This is how we are reverent to God. We provide environments where lost people find Him.

End of Week 1

2010-05-09T09:48:00.003-04:00

Today is a day of rest for the workout program. It is much needed. My body is sore and needs to recoup. Today I will still be reading the scriptures.

I will be finishing the Book of Exodus today. Exodus God lays out many details of how he wants Israel to be established. The one that stuck out is the day of rest or Sabbath. God even went so far as to tell Israel that if they worked on the Sabbath they would be put to death. That is serious attention to detail. Not only is a Sabbath biblical but it is scientific that our bodies are healthier and in turn produce better work because of it.

I am really wrestling with the idea of Grace vs Works. In the Old Testament God lays out very detailed plans into how they were to live their lives. No one can succeed at the law God put forth which is why God sent Jesus to pay the penalty of failure for us so we don't have to die if we break the Sabbath because Christ died for us. But I think we take advantage of Christ's death by just saying oh well or I will work on it. I feel like we water down His Grace. Maybe I'm wrong but throughout scripture it says if we love Him we will obey Him. I have to ask myself am I obeying the Father or am I just relying on Grace? To me if we have received His Grace and Love our live will show that by our actions. It seems it is dangerous these days to talk about works. I truly believe that you cannot be saved by works but after salvation there is no room for us to not act. Grace and works are inseparable after salvation. God still wants us to live a life that is like Jesus but the beauty is we don't die when we fail if we are in Christ Jesus. Which understanding that should motivate us to live more like Christ. Because if we didn't have Him we would die. Every time we sin that deserves death but Jesus died for us. That is a humbling fact. If we are acting like Jesus then we should wonder whether or not we are saved...just saying...

I wonder how Rob Larsen and Josh Conn are doing with this challenge after the first week.

Grass is greener

2010-05-08T14:52:00.001-04:00

When we are frustrated the grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence. But most of the time when we get there we are just as frustrated.

I read Exodus 16-28 today and that is exactly what I found the Israelites doing. They were grumbling on the other side of the fence. In fact they said it would be better if we were back where we were and had died there. Crazy that they thought where they came from was better. I believe God wants contentment. I think that is one of the reasons the Israelites wandered for 40 years, they were not content. God promised them a land but wanted their hearts and was determined to get it.

This is something I need to remember. God wants my heart and I know when I fully give it to Him contentment will happen.

Today I finished my first week of P90X workouts. I feel great and I am still pumped about this workout program. Excited to see how God uses this.

God is Sovereign

2010-05-07T16:06:00.000-04:00

Exodus 1-15 is all about God's Sovereignty. Do you believe God is control? If not read Exodus 1-15. Some people try to explain it away which is dangerous theologically. Why would God harden someone's heart? God has a plan and who am I to question it? If he wants to harden a heart why can't he to accomplish his purposes? He wanted to bring Egypt to their knees as well as build trust and faithfulness in the Israelites. Who are we to question that? It may seem difficult whatever situation we find ourselves but we have to trust that God is in control and His plan is greater than ours. We must be faithful to that.

I loved how God spoke to Moses when he was at his weakest and God moved through a burning bush in a powerful way. So many times God speaks clearly to me and I question it. This story is confirmation to never question God as He is in control.

The workout today was good for the soul. Feel like I'm in a good rythmn.

Day 4 of 90

2010-05-06T11:10:00.003-04:00

I'm excited to do this 90 day challenge. Today I will be doing some yoga. Looking forward to seeing how that goes. I have been doing a lot of reflecting lately. Today I read the last 10 chapters of Genesis.

It was about how God spared Jacob and his family from the famine through his son Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery and his family thought him to be dead but he rose up as the #2 leader in all of Egypt the most powerful nation of that time because he was faithful with where God had him.

I am going to be a little vulnerable and honest with where I am at. I love my job and where God has me but there are things I do that I know aren't my "sweet spot." Joseph's sweet spot was obviously in leading people in an organized way. He was wise and discerning and God used all his strengths and he seemed to love all that he did. But he did not start that way. I coach young people all the time on reaching their dreams or "sweet spot" in life. I always tell them be faithful with where God has you now and you will arrive to that place one day. It is a good reminder for me that I must be faithful with where God has me and do it to the best of my ability. So when the day comes for me to be in that "sweet spot" God is preparing me for I am ready to take it and accomplish it. It is my goal to be faithful to be fruitful as Joseph was.

Hump day

2010-05-05T20:50:00.001-04:00

Today is hump day of my first week in the 90 day challenge. It is normally the toughest day but today actually was my easiest day.

Genesis is teaching me a lot about patience and submission. It is all over the book. Today I read about Joseph and the promises God gave him. I identify a lot with Joseph as he is a man with a vision and a word from God who doesn't get it right away in fact he takes many steps back. I feel the same. I know God has given me a clear vision for my family and ministry. Neither have arrived but I know in Gods timing they will happen and I don't want to rush that.

The workout was fun today. It felt like an old basketball workout which brought back lots of great memories. I feel great. Heading towards the end of the first week I feel great!

Day 2

2010-05-04T21:31:00.001-04:00

Made it through the burn. Today was cardio and I did well. Feel good but today's entry will be short as it's getting late.

I read Genesis 17-28:19. Learned a lot about the blessings of God. We need to be greatful for what God has given us. Boy am I grateful. He has provided me with a beautiful wife and 2 awesome kids. I am so blessed and I can't complain about some of the short comings my life brings.

Day 1

2010-05-03T21:23:00.001-04:00

One word: Brutal.

I read Genesis 1-16 from youversion's 90 day plan. It was very revealing to how God works. The theme throughout was submission. That is something I must do to succeed not only during these 90 days but in life. This 90 journey is called no slackers allowed. To rebel is to slack. If I rebel against the plan I fail. If I rebel against Gods plan then it is worse as I miss out on his perfect plan for me and I tell him I know better. I do not want to tell God I know better. I learned throughout the story of Abraham that when he didn't submit to God it did not go very well. God still worked but Abraham suffered. God even told Hagar who was being mistreated to submit. Not. Good. To be honest though I think it's less about submission and more about trust. Do you trust God enough to submit to him?

...Brutal

Food was tough today as I cut way back and felt hungry most of the day but I pushed through and did well but it was

...Brutal

As I was journaling today I had the overwhelming sense of Gods love and I thought my love for others is very inadequate for how much God loves me. But when I was given the opportunity to show love and Grace to someone at a store I reacted the opposite...not good

Finally P90X. It was tough not gonna lie. But I made it through. Core synergetics. It was one of the toughest workouts with no weights I have ever had but I made it through day one. Good thing I only do that particular workout once a week...but it was

....Brutal

Now to shower and wind down and get ready for Day 2...

90 Days

2010-04-28T09:48:00.002-04:00

I will soon be going through a 90 day program to get healthy physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

I am going to do 90 days of workout and diet program (P90X), I will read through the Bible in 90 days (youversion.com) and I will be journaling for 90 straight days. I will also blog my experiences everyday as well.

I felt convicted that I am a slacker in many areas. Although I exercise and spend time with God neither is what I want it to be. I want to push myself and grow. I want to create habits in my life that help me grow. I know that Jesus came to abolish the law so we have freedom but He also doesn't want us to abuse that freedom. I feel like too many times I abuse that freedom so I am going into a no slacker program.

Right now my boys Robert Larsen and Joshua Conn are joining me in this journey because I need accountability.

one on one discipleship coaching

2010-02-15T11:18:00.000-05:00

Probably my favorite part of coaching basketball was practice. Practice is where it all happened. We loved the saying, "Perfect practice makes perfect." So practice was intense. We put players through the ringer when it came to skill, fitness, and their mental toughness. We summed this up as Character. We had a distinct plan for players when it came to drills that we would put players through day after day. We wanted to push them to their limit and then push more. We would run them until they were tired and then run them some more. Then as coaches we would play with their minds by making them think that they had completed a drill successfully and then throw them off by changing the rules or something. We would push and push and push as we knew that those drills decided games that hadn't been played. We wanted our team to be prepared for tough situations in games and have the character to push through and win.

I think that God sees life in the same way. He knows that tough times are going to come and the question is do we have the character it takes to push through? This is why I believe James tell us this:

James 1:2-4 says, "²Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. ⁴Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

As coaches we are developing the character of those we are coaching. So as a coach I encourage you to push the person you are coaching. Push them beyond where they think that they can go. I can guarantee you that at some point in your coaching relationship you, the person you are coaching, or both of you will go through a significant life trial. It is what you do with that situation that will mark you as a coach and mark that person. Are they prepared? Have you prepared them? The coaching relationships are designed to help develop a person's character so that when they go through a tough time they can persevere and be mature and complete.

Calling

2010-01-28T15:10:00.001-05:00

Pursuit of calling is never easy. God did not give us a task and tell us it would be easy. My experience in pursuing the calling of God has taught me that sometimes the road gets long, hard, and tough. But it is because we know our calling is from God that we push through.

Luke 9:23 says, Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

Taking up a cross is a tough thing to do. The significance is huge. But one thing I know is it isn't easy. Never said it would be easy. But we are called to follow Him. If God is calling you somewhere don't shy away from that calling because it is too hard. Don't shy away because you need more schooling or you won't get a full time job or you won't get health benefits. Know your calling and pursue it. Take up your cross to follow Him. You don't want to compromise that or your life will be bleak and lifeless. God WILL take care of you. The calling of God is too important to compromise for some short term worldly gain.

Brett Favre, Colts, and Monday Morning Prayer

2010-01-25T10:28:00.003-05:00

Everything is right with the world. Brett Favre threw an unnecessary interception to cost his team a Super Bowl birth. The Colts dominated the miracle Jets like they were supposed to do and I was back at my Monday morning pastor's prayer time. It feels good to be back home and in my normal routine and sports back to normal.

But things won't be the same for me. My task is clear: help people understand the people acrossed the world need our help. They need our resources and things we can give them but more than that they need Jesus. Watch out Jesus is on the move.

Home Stretch

2010-01-17T10:40:00.002-05:00

Today we decided on the area for the exact location of the ministry in Siam Square. It will be from Starbucks to MBK to the Train Stop. It is about 10 square blocks. Really cool. Today in the square there were bands set up playing. Really a nice atmosphere to meet and hang out with people. We then took Steve Strong and Jim Sappia out to get some Outback.

We are pumped about what God might do. Tomorrow we meet with the Field Leadership Team to discuss the ministry and hear some possible decisions.

Tomorrow at 11:30 we fly back to Taipei to begin our journey home. We are in Taipei for one day and then fly to LA. We will red eye it back to Detroit then on to EWR for a 8:47am arrival.

Short trip but great and I am ready to see my family. Miss them a lot.

Slumdog Bangkok

2010-01-16T18:20:00.005-05:00

Today we saw some of the worst living conditions and how a lot of people live in across the world which makes you appreciate all that we have in America. Even the worst of living conditions in America don't compare to the slums of Bangkok. Things we have they don't: sewage system, trash pickup system, more than one 20x10 foot room, and much much more. We saw kids without pants or shirts. We saw feces everywhere and all we smelled was urine. Parents just put clothes on the children with whatever they had and it wasn't much. This slum will break anyone's heart upon visiting. The children wanted to be with you. They wanted to hang out and check out your technology just like any other child. Many children there probably don't experience much love and just wanted us to hug them. We saw people living in broken down shacks and living in an area that none of us would settle for. We saw trash everywhere, saw slums built on dirty water filled with sewage, children who didn't have a lot of food, and a slum lottery where the most they could win was 40 baht which is equivalent to about 1 dollar. Let me tell you it was bad and we have to do something. To know about this and not do something is just wrong. American's are a culture of being in the know. We know about Haiti and want to do something. We should do something but the people in the slums of Bangkok are living in a condition that many die every month just for where they live. I can tell you most of us would not live one month in those conditions.

I'm sure if they just had proper sewage and drainage more people would live. I'm sure if someone would bring them food they could not be hungry. If someone would clothe them their body could be protected. If someone would love and play with their children they would feel love. If someone would take the time to know them you could see their real need is a Savior and you could share the Gospel. The Gospel of Jesus is what these people need. We can share the Gospel in real and tangible ways by meeting basic needs that none of us could comprehend.

It is my hope that through our ministry in Bangkok we can provide the hope of Jesus to the people of Siam Square as well as the people of the slums. It will look different in each location. One Rich and the other poor. One is our normal and one is nothing we have ever experienced nor will we. One has Starbucks at every corner and one lives on Starbucks' trash. There are so many differences but there is one thing in common: the people need Jesus.

It is time to do something.

Now that I know....

.....I have to do something......

To do NOTHING....

.....is to disobey God....

I will be obedient and I will not ignore.

What will you do now that you know?

I know we will do something...

Some images of our experience in the slum Klong Toey, Bangkok's largest...

Swaticup

2010-01-15T10:29:00.004-05:00

Hello. Today we had a great day exploring Thailand for the first time. Bangkok is a big city that will wear you down. We hung out with our missionary Jim Sappia for the first half of the day and he gave us a tour of the area we are looking to do ministry, Siam Square. I think it will be a great place to do ministry. We had our first Thai contact Vrandy and found that many Thai in this area know some English. Enough to hold a conversation. The university closest to Siam Square has many of their classes in English. So knowing and being able to use English is a big in to this area of the city we are trying to reach.

I will let some of the images of today speak.

Siam Square where we are looking to do the ministry....lot's of people...

Our first Thai contact Vrandy
Marcos getting a fish foot massage
Yeah. yeah. we ate at Hard Rock Cafe
Us with the Sappia Family and Michelle Olsen

Land of the Thai

2010-01-14T10:56:00.000-05:00

We have made it to our destination: Thailand. It is exciting to finally be able to explore the ministry in Bangkok. We have tons of meetings set up with local pastors and ministries. Pray connections go well and God moves in us as we come up with a strategy for ministry here.

One thing I have noticed while being around missionaries is that they have a huge vision for their countries. HUGE! Every missionary I have talked to has had the attitude of let's reach our whole country. How am I going to do it? I think this should translate back to us in Plainsboro. How can we think outside of our city box and have a bigger view of reaching people for Jesus. How can we have a state view and a world view? I am so grateful to be a part of a church that is about reaching the world for Jesus and investing in a ministry like one we are going to. But individually I think many of us miss the point of the mission God gave us. What are you doing to make disciples in the whole world? It starts with praying leads to giving and ends up at going. I believe if you aren't going you are disobeying God's Great Commission found in Matthew 28. "Go into all the world and make disciples..." Where are you going?

Our prayer is that through this ministry in Bangkok the masses find Jesus and many churches are planted in Bangkok as a result. It is so cool to be a pioneer of this new ministry. Please join us in praying over these next four days that we lay appropriate ground work for this pioneering. May God go before us and ordain connections and give us supernatural blessings. May we say God moved in a powerful way.

Wiped Out

2010-01-13T07:19:00.004-05:00

Today we hit our jet lag wall of tiredness. We visited some cool places: Cheng Kai Shek Memorial, Taipei 101 which is the tallest building in the world, and a Buddhist temple. We also saw where they plan on planting a church in Taipei. It is interesting that the section of town that this ministry is happening no Buddhist temple is. But the church is penetrating this community. It is neat to see God move in that way.

The Buddhist temple was sad. We visited the temple and just watched the feeble attempts of people crying out to an idol. They were praying to something that wasn't there. These people were hopeless because they were missing the truth. They need God and need someone to bring them God. The really sad part is they don't know God and have missed it. All of our hearts were broke for these people. We will pray for what God is doing here and pray that he moves in us as we go to Bangkok tomorrow.

We had a lot of great conversations with some missionaries. We got to hang out with Rick and Tammie Romano our missionaries in Mexico that we support. We got to talk to Pete Brokkopp and hear his heart for Africa. We met Dennis who is a 50 plus year old church planter in Denver reaching out to young adults. It was a great day full of connections and conversations. The day had a lot of great conversations with our team about the future that God has for us and where he is moving. I think it is awesome that sometimes God has to rip us out of our current context for Him to speak to our hearts. If you are looking for God to speak I would encourage you to find a different context and listen for God because he will speak in those situations.

Thanks for your prayers. Please continue to pray.

Some pics from the day:

Matt, Kyle, Rick, and I on top of Taipei 101

People without hope in need of a Savior...they don't know...who will bring the Gospel to them?

First Day

2010-01-12T18:02:00.004-05:00

Today is our first day in Taiwan. After our arrival we went straight to our hotel in Ximending. It was about midnight local time but getting close to lunch time according to our bodies so we went to a local restaurant and had food. Since we are in Taiwan it is better known as Chinese food and it was really good. We finally got to bed about 2:30am local time and I am up and at em at about 7am local time. Pray for us that we get adjusted well.

The Christian and Missionary Alliance is holding its annual short term missions leadership meetings so far we have met the coordinators for short term missions in Cambodia and Philadelphia. We will see Rick and Tammie Romano today who are the missionaries we support in Mexico. We have already had a great initial conversation with Matt Peace about the possible ministry in Thailand. Things are already exciting for us as a church and our involvement in Thailand. There are many decisions to be made as well figuring out how to connect Thailand's needs with our service to young adults.

It is time to go explore this city of Taipei. Today we will explore the ministry of Taipei and a few cultural stops as well.

Here are a couple of images of our trip so far:

This is the restaurant we ate at:

Here is us after about 30 hours of travel

We landed

2010-01-12T07:10:00.000-05:00

After 28 hours of travel we have reached our destination. It is about 10pm here in Taiwan Tuesday evening so we have lost a day during travel.

We start our trip with a day in Taipei, Taiwan. We will be looking at the ministry here to see how we might do it in Bangkok.

We(Kyle, Matt, Marcos, and myself) are exicited and tired. We also smell pretty bad:) our flight from Detroit to Tokyo was delayed and the people of Japan were kind enough to hold the flight from Tokyo to Taiwan. Without that help we may have been trying to book a flight in englenese.

Thank you for those that are praying for us it has helped and given us a smooth trip so far. Continue to pray for travel safety, health(this is key), and great connections.

Here is a great pic of our action so far:)

Thailand Subscription

2010-01-10T08:40:00.002-05:00

If you would like to follow our trip to Thailand this next week go to my blog matthewleemurphy.blogspot.com and subscribe to it. When you do that you will get updates in your inbox.

Pray for us as we travel and that we make good connections for the start of this new ministry in Bangkok, Thailand.

Discouraged?

2010-01-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

It seems many I know have been discouraged recently including myself. I believe that we are in a spiritual war. Because we are in a spiritual war we need to be aware that the enemy will be attacking. Satan does not want you to succeed and he has been around the block a few times. Because of this we must pursue God so that we are resting completely in Him.

As we pursue God's calling in our lives let's make sure we are aware the enemy wants us to be discouraged. So be encouraged that you are heading in the right direction and use the discouragment you feel as motivation to pursue Jesus who will help you to defeat that discouragement.

Discouragement also sets in when we are identifying ourselves in something other than Jesus Christ. The more our identity is in Jesus the less the difficulties of life bother us. When we completely trust in Jesus we know he will take care of us.

Jesus' comments sum it up below:

Matthew 11:28-30

28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Family Goals

2010-01-04T11:21:00.003-05:00

When setting goals make sure you set some clear family goals. In fact I would argue that your family goals should fall right after your drawing closer to Jesus goals. I didn't say spiritual goals because sometimes people will put ministry goals in there as well and I in no way support sacrificing your family on the altar of ministry. It says in scripture that those who minister should be good managers of their family. I believe all of us should focus on our families first but so many times our families come behind career, ministry, and hobbies.

Where is your family in your new year's resolutions?

Here are some of my family goals:

Pray with them every night

Do something to help around the house before I go into 'relax' mode

Play with my son every night

Have 2 focused family weekend or week (depending on funds:) vacations a year (non-extended family related)

Have 1-2 family outings a month (day trip type things)

I want to connect with my family spiritually, serve them, and do stuff with them.

Happy New Year and I hope that everyone is enjoying being back at work full swing...

Goal Setting

2009-12-31T10:24:00.001-05:00

Today I am setting goals for 2010. I believe God has an awesome year in store for us as a family. I set goals in 3 areas every year for the last 13 years since I was in high school. They used to be Sports, Girls, School:) I still have 3 but now they are Family, Ministry, and Personal. I have always set goals and I believe it gives us focus and great ability to achieve.

My spiritual goals are included in personal and here is a key scripture for me as I evaluate my spiritual goals as well as three questions I am asking myself as I set my spiritual goals.

Luke 2:49b "Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?"

Is this our attitude towards being with Jesus?

3 questions

1. What do I need to learn spiritually this year?

2. What big risk do I need to take as I pursue my calling?

3. Who do I need to submit to spiritually?

Happy New Year Everyone!

May God Bless you with a heart that is desperate for Him!

Decade Reflection

2009-12-30T12:25:00.001-05:00

Wow it has been 10 years since I graduated high school. This decade came with A LOT of changes.

2000 graduated high school
2001 met Kelly, started coaching basketball
2002 got engaged to Kelly,
2003 graduated college and started in paid ministry
2004 married Kelly
2005 started in the ministry in Nutley, NJ first job in C&MA
2006 graduated seminary with MDIV started first full time ministry job at Princeton Alliance last year of coaching basketball 5 seasons total
2007 Started Immerse and found out first child on the way
2008 Joshua born
2009 helped start 217 church, got ordained, found out #2 child on the way, Spiritual Development Pastor at PAC

Crazy decade. I met my wife Kelly and son Joshua. I was a basketball coach who became a pastor. I got an MDIV, ordained, and became a spiritual development pastor. It sounds like I'm spiritual but I realize more everyday how much I am in need of a Saviour and how dirty my heart really is. It is amazing to look back and see that God took a messed up human like me and is using me. I am in awe of all the blessings of God that are in my life. Wow. I am blessed. Thank you God.

Year End Reflection

2009-12-30T12:10:00.001-05:00

2009 was a good year.

Family- found out we were having number 2, got to visit Paris,

Ministry- got ordained, gained more responsibility,

Goals- I met reading and ministry goals but didn't meet writing and weight goals. I'm push on my exercise goals.

2009 was definitely a year of growth for me and I am looking forward to 2010. I really feel that I have to live my life more on purpose than ever before.

I will post my goals later this week for 2010.

Health Care and Christmas

2009-12-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

Where is the unity? I'm glad congress is doing something to help those without healthcare but where is congressional unity? It seems the democrats are just bulldozing past the republicans without ever including them in discussions. Where are the back room meetings to at least get a couple of republicans support. It seems the democrats just say to republicans we'll do whatever we want and don't need you but by doing that you alienate half of the country.

Republicans, the democrats conceded a lot but no one supports it? It really seems republicans are saying no just to say no so Obama fails on his attempt at bipartisanship. I have a hard time believing no republican could vote for this. They took out public option, early buy in to Medicare, and proved over the long haul this bill pays for itself. In my opinion Lieberman was the republican rep on this bill. He was working for republicans and did a good job. I believe the majority of senators were content with this bill but republicans voted no to save their political hides.

Our government has lost site of what their job is all about. Their voting is soley based on winning their next election not on doing what is right. I'm getting annoyed with it. I'm getting tired of talk show hosts who just want strike fear into the hearts of Americans. All to just get their way politically. That is just wrong. People wake up, talk show hosts on both sides slant the truth to make you hate the other party. No matter what side you are on, think for yourself not what some talk show host tells you to think. Remember, they are out to make $ not be right.

I personally think we as believers in Christ need to be careful on what political party we side with. Both parties do good and both do bad. I for one do not think Christ should be lumped in with the bad. I hate it when I see people lumping Christianity and Christ in with something bad that is going on in politics. Ultimately Jesus was about bringing reform to peoples lives and hearts. He came to see hearts changed. If we as Christians would rise up and model our lives after Jesus rather than relying on some politician to do it then much of the wrong we see in our society would be changed.

Can you imagine what would happen if a generation of believers would rise up and live a life of sacrifice, obedience, humility, reconciliation, and for the least of these? We see what happened in Jesus' generation the Jewish political climate was turned upside down. If we want a revolution to happen politically it has to start in our own lives. What are you doing to live like Jesus? What are you doing to see your neighbor live like Jesus? Your family? Your co-workers? Your community? Your state? This country? The world?

To do this it takes giving of our life. Are you willing to give your life for the cause of Jesus Christ? We celebrate Jesus' birth in 1 day when He came to this earth with the purpose to sacrifice himself for you. Are you willing to sacrifice for him? May your gift this Christmas be one that takes a huge risk for Him! When we all do that then we can turn our society upside down!

I paint houses

2009-12-17T07:08:00.001-05:00

Yesterday our staff painted someones house in Trenton that in all honesty needed to be gutted out and started over. Now, because of lanlord issues we did what we could and what we could do was mostly cosmetic.

But it got me thinking. How many times do we do this with our lives? Our lives need some real gutting and renovating yet we just address cosmetics and make ourselves look good.

This home was dirty and had cochroaches running through it. There were a couple of times that I painted right over the coachroaches and they became permanent fixtures. How often do we just paint over the cochroaches of our lives? We see an issue and just address the symptom but we never to get to the root.

What are you doing with your life? Are you just painting over issues? I believe the majority of us just paint over and don't deal with the real issues. Deal with your real issues. Don't call yourself a good Christian when you know you have an army of cochroaches running around your heart. And besides you aren't really fooling anyone.

Primal

2009-12-16T14:21:00.002-05:00

Primal-

Mark Batterson's new book was a challenege to us to live a life of sacrifice and love. He challenged us to think about the things that break the heart of God and what are we going to do about it. If you are looking for that next step with Christ, a step to take you deeper, and live a full life get this book. Mark gives some great examples from his own life and the life of others who sacrificed for the sake of Jesus Christ. What are you doing to sacrifice for Jesus? This book will help you figure that out. This book challenged me to look at my life in a 'Primal' way, the way God intended.

You can pick up a copy here: http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9781601421319

Jesus' view on the American Dream

2009-12-10T15:06:00.003-05:00

I don't know what your career goals are. I'm sure many of them are admirable. In many ways our American culture tells us to get rich, own property, grow your property, and retire well and early. In my devotions this morning I was reading in Luke 12:13-21 Jesus talks directly to us and our American culture. I honestly don't know what you do with the following verses. I am not going to make any comment but let scripture speak for itself. Read it. Apply it.

The Parable of the Rich Fool

¹³Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."

¹⁴Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" ¹⁵Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

¹⁶And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. ¹⁷He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'

¹⁸"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. ¹⁹And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '

²⁰"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'

²¹"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."

Confront it. Don't ignore this. How many of us set out to make enough money to retire on? Jesus calls us a fool. Not cool. I am wrestling with this. Can you follow Jesus in this way?

I was talking about this with my friend Josh Conn and he blogged in greater detail about what this means for our culture: http://www.joshconn.com/2009/12/10/titans-3-get-old-get-rich-retire/

Leader Development

2009-12-09T14:24:00.000-05:00

The number one thing we look for in the church when developing leaders is teachability. Let me tell you that this issue disqualifies many great leaders from leading and having God use them to their fullest potential. The number one reason people aren't teachable is arrogance. I believe that you can learn something from anyone and there is never a time that you can't be teachable. So if you want God to use you to your fullest potential in the marketplace or in ministry. Be teachable and you can go a long way.

Tiger

2009-12-07T10:49:00.004-05:00

There is a lot going on in the news about Tiger Woods and his 'transgressions'. I think we can all figure out what happened as I won't use this blog to explain. There are some things to be learned from the events that happened with Tiger.

1. Everyone is vulnerable to moral failure. This whole thing has been real disappointing to see as it seemed he had a great image.

2. We are just as bad as Tiger even if our transgressions happen in our mind or somewhere else. To me we should show the same grace to Tiger that we have from God. We are all sinners in need of a savior. The only difference for some of us is that we know that. I pray that Tiger figures that out.

3. We can't play God and think we won't lose control. Our sins will come to the surface because we are human. It is a lot better for you to confess your sins than letting the world do it for you.

4. We all have sinned or transgressed.

5. We all need a Savior.

6. We as Christians need to show love and grace to Tiger. We need to embody Jesus Christ. In years gone by I could see Christian groups standing up and protesting Tiger, never watching Tiger ever again, or stoning him if you will. What did Jesus do in John 8? Don't protest Tiger. Jesus isn't.

¹But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. ²At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. ³The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group ⁴and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. ⁵In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" ⁶They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. ⁷When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." ⁸Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.⁹At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. ¹⁰Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?¹¹"No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

Discipleship

2009-12-03T11:55:00.003-05:00

What is a disciple? That is the central question of our day in the church. I believe that the waves are shifting as to what a true disciple of Jesus Christ is. I think that when we answer this question it has impact on the way we see the rest of the world as Christians. It affects the way we spend money, our marriages, friendships, family relationships, politics, leadership, the way we work, etc. I think to define discipleship we have to explore The Gospel. What is the Gospel and how do we live it? If we answer that question then we will begin to see what it means to be a disciple. What are your thoughts? What do you think a disciple is? What is the Gospel? Obviously, make sure that your answers are found in scripture.

I am thinking of doing a class in the winter on this and would love your input/attendance at the class. Let me know what you think.

Just One...Discipleship from The Book of Acts

2009-10-02T15:21:00.005-04:00

As pastors most of us set out to save the world for Jesus. It is our desire to see the multitudes come to know Him. Yet so few of us see that happen. We ask questions how did the early church do it? The early church is something that the current church always strives to be like. As we look multitudes were added. How did that happen? This is a great question to ask for a passionate pastor who wants to save the world for Jesus. The early church did it so how can we. I believe it is because they started with just one. It starts with yourself. If those individuals did not gather to meet with God in the upper room then who knows? If Barnabas didn't go spend time with Paul then who knows? If Paul didn't spend time with Timothy then who knows? If the early church didn't start with just one then maybe things would be different. So if you are setting out to change the world and have the numbers of those being saved added daily be in the multitudes you have to start with Just One. Who are you investing in? Are you taking yourself to the upper room to connect with the Father? Maybe the one you need to save is yourself? If you can't save yourself what makes you think you will change the world? If you can't save just one what makes you think you can save the world? Start with Just One.

College

2009-04-02T10:17:00.002-04:00

Last night I attended our Immerse Worship group in Nyack, NY. It was an awesome time of worship and reflection. It was a very relaxed and come as you are environment. A couple of instances reminded me of my College days.

1. The evening didn't start until 9pm. (I am normally winding down for bed at this time)
2. We finished the night at 11:30pm. (I am normally dead asleep at this hour)
3. We then went out to BW3's, an amazing chicken wing place. (brought back lots of memories of college as wings from BW's was a staple in the ole' diet)
4. got back to house at 1am. (last 9 months or so this was a time Joshua would wake us from our sleep) This house is shared by 5-6 college guys. I was originally supposed to crash on the couch.
5. College pranks. Let's just say I was in a house full of college guys on April fools day.
6. Disgusting bathrooms. We are getting close to the end of the school year, probably no one has ever cleaned them.
7. Decide at 2am that there is no way I am sleeping on the couch and head to one of my friends college dorm rooms to crash at my old seminary housing building, Jaffray.
8. Spend some time talking with the guys in the room I was crashing in. (very reminiscent of late night talks in the dorm room)
9. 3am, other roomate slams door probably to send a message that we were talking too loud:)
10. Finally go to sleep at 3:30am, my body let me sleep until 8:30am.

College life has its place but I am definitely living the good life with Kelly and Joshua.

Pursuit

2009-03-12T08:59:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I came home from work and Joshua, my son, saw me immediately squealed, smile, started waiving his arms over his head and then started crawling as fast as he could towards me. While he was crawling toward me his head was looking up at me smiling and he had no regard for whatever lay in his path. He just bulldozed over toys, clothes, and our dog. It was an awesome feeling to have Joshua do that just to be with me. I immediately dropped everything to pick him up, hug him, and just hang out with him.

My son always gets me thinking about how God is. I really think that God is standing there much in the same way waiting for us to come running to him. And once we start running towards him he will drop everything to run towards you. Do you pursue God with reckless abandoned? Do you pursue him joyfully? Do you let things distract you from God? I often wonder what our worship services would be like if we pursued God with the kind of abandoned that my son pursued me with.

Rescue Mission

2009-03-08T08:04:00.003-04:00

I think many of us have forgotten what the mission is all about. In today's Lent reading in John 3 Jesus started his conversation with Nicodemus. As I was reading the story it reminded me of the fact that we should be having those kinds of conversations everyday. I was under conviction as I read because it has been a little while since I shared with someone.

The last person I had a conversation like this with was about a month ago. I was in the San Diego area and my car broke down. We had to get the car towed back to the rental place and get a new rental car. After I found a ride for Kelly and Joshua back to our hotel I got in the tow truck for the hour drive back to the rental place. The driver was Michael. He was from Iran. He was open to the Gospel. I shared with him the story of Jesus, Jesus' story in my life, and how Jesus could change his life. Michael shared stories of his life of alcohol and drug abuse. To me it was evident God had a hand in his life. To me I feel like God used me to help Michael take a step closer to Jesus. By the end of our conversation he said he believed in Jesus but he also said he still believed in Islam. I believe he was genuine based on stories he told and other people God had in his life. It is my prayer that those Christians in his life God uses to help him realize that Jesus is THE WAY.

How many of us have a story like Michael in the past month? I am convicted that I have not had one. I have heard people say that isn't my gifting or I am not called to that. That is redonkulous because we all have the same mission in Matthew 28 of Going and making disciples. We as Christians are called to be like Christ and Christ shared the Gospel all the time. It is our job to rescue as many as we can from eternal destruction. Yesterday we took a group of young adults down to the homeless shelter Rescue Mission. We sorted clothes and helped in their thrift store. All of this is to help the homeless and less fortunate. This was an opportunity to live the mission of God in a practical way. You never know what might happen in a setting like that. We had a good turnout relative to previous weeks but the number of people showing up was poor. It made me ask the question are many of us even on a Rescue Mission or are we on the coast mission?

When we get to the throne of God we are going to be asked to give an account.

What will your story be?

Church Leadership

2009-03-05T08:25:00.002-05:00

In my opinion leading people in the church is a lot harder than leading in the corporate world or coaching world. I came from an environment where I was leading a group of players and I could lead like a dictator or kick them off the team and they lose their scholarship. In my opinion same with corporate America. In many ways as a leader in the secular world you can lead with extrinsic motivation and get the job done. I do think that if you want to go above and beyond where anyone thought possible you have to lead your people intrinsically as well. But in the church world there really isn't anything extrinsic you have to motivate people. So, if you are leader in the secular world join a church and lead a ministry full of volunteers. You will have to learn real fast how to lead intrinsically.

5 Reasons the church fosters intrinsic leadership:

1. In the church you are leading all volunteers.
2. There is no paycheck coming for most of them.
3. They don't need your ministry because they could just go down the street.
4. You are fighting to get your volunteers time.
5. Most of ministry is a praiseless job. (you might get praise from a few but most people in ministry are not famous)

Here are some lessons I have learned on leading intrinsically.

1. Find out what inspires those you are leading.
2. Give the people you are leading a clear and compelling vision that inspires them.
3. Be transparent with those you are leading. People don't want to follow someone who is fake.
4. Have Moral Authority. Do what you say you are going to do and be willing to do what you ask those you are leading to do.
5. Spend time with the people you are leading. Laugh with them, Cry with them, and be there friend. If they know that you are there for them they will be there for you.
6. Empower them in their gifting. Find out what their gifts, talents, and dreams are and help them utilize those things.
7. Give those you are leading ownership. You do this by letting your vision come from them. Sit down with them over coffee, food, in their home, and anywhere outside your office. This doesn't mean they set the vision. You influence them and let your vision come from them. This will only happen when you share your heart and spend time with the ones you are leading.
8. Give those you are leading your time. Those that directly work for you should be your priority.
9. Communicate stories of success relating to your vision.
10. Empower those you lead to find someone who they can multiply themselves into.

Basketball

2009-02-28T14:47:00.002-05:00

To me this is the week where March Madness starts. The last week of the regular season, then the conference tourneys, and then the national tournament. I am going to be watching all the basketball I possibly can so that I can make the best selections I can in my bracket. I am hoping Michigan makes it in after a decade long absence. They are on the bubble which is exciting because I haven't rooted for them to get in like this in a long time.

BTW Joshua, my 9 month old, will be making picks. I will make the obvious picks like 1 over 16 and 2 over 15 but the rest he will pick. I will have two toys with team names on them. Which ever one he picks will be the team. The scary part is he will probably win.

GO BLUE!

Jesus is not a Republican...or a Democrat...

2009-02-27T15:19:00.000-05:00

The Church is the reason that the Democratic fiscal policies are the way to go in our current time. It is funny to me that 85% of ‘Christians’ are Republicans when the Republicans have been the ones who have ignored the oppressed, the poor, and the less fortunate. They think that wealth will trickle down to those that don’t have money from the wealthy. How is that possible with them pursuing the American Dream? If the American Dream is about individual prosperity then how does wealth trickle when we are being selfish? Acts 2:45 says, “They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” If this was an example set for us by the early church are we doing it? 50% of our population in America is Protestant. 35% of the population in America is Evangelical. More than 100 million Americans are in the evangelical church. What would America look like if the church lived like the church? Would we ever go into recession?

God does not have a political party. God is about the oppressed. God is about justice. God is love. God pursues us. God wants the church to be like Him. God is about sacrifice. God is about giving.

I really dislike the fact that it seems God has been tagged as in full support for the Republican party. Every year the ‘Christians’ are manipulated to think that the Republican party is the Christian party. This is simply not true. It is unfortunate that the Republican party manipulates us into thinking that if you vote for them you are voting for life. So, obviously as a Christian I do not want to see abortion. Abortion is not of God. So, we get on the very righteous horse to save lives and in so doing we think we need to fall in line with every Republican practice. So, essentially you become non-Christian in your thinking if you disagree with any Republican policy. What the heck is that? I am tired of this. I am tired of being manipulated. I want to be seen as an independent thinker. I want to be true to Christ. Here is what politicians have really manipulated us into believing as Christians: That the American Dream is righteous. They take an obvious moral stand in abortion and manipulate us into buying into the idea that the American Dream is of God or something. WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? It is time to stop buying into the immorality of the American Dream. The most dangerous part is it is so subtle. This is the one issue that both political parties want us to buy into and it is one issue that everyone in America wants. Why don’t the Christ followers make a stand against this? To me abortion and same sex marriage are only moral symptoms of a larger problem that we Christians have helped to fuel.

The American Dream is defined as a “dream of social order in which each man and woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are regardless of birth” by James Truslow Adams in his book Epic of America. The American Dream began as an opportunity to achieve great material prosperity. The context that the American Dream is referred to is always material wealth. Even in Adams’ definition which does not directly address material wealth but later he says that material wealth has counted plenty for those in pursuit of the American Dream. Material wealth is the end goal for those in pursuit of the American Dream. We hear all the time let’s return to prosperity, let’s improve our prosperity, and let me see how I can help myself and see myself attain the fullest stature. Is this the dream God has for us?

John 10:10 says, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” This passage would lead one to think that Jesus wants us to have a full life in how we define it. But, Jesus addresses the American Dream as defined above in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” In fact, the story of the Rich Young Ruler says it all when Jesus asks him to sell everything and come follow him. Have you sacrificed anything lately? We just want Jesus so we can get to heaven and have him when times are tough but we also want all the immorality that this world offers in a full life. We want the best of both worlds. If we haven’t sacrificed to follow Jesus are we even a follower of Him? By our fruits they will know that we are a follower of Jesus. Does your fruit prove you to be a follower of Jesus? Or does your life look just like those of this world?

Hope. That is what people want. Hope for a better future. Hope for life to the full. Jesus is the one that truly gives life to the fullest. The church has not done its job of showing people the hope that is found in Jesus Christ. So, now the government is trying to provide that hope. All Barack Obama shows is that the church is not being the church. It is sobering. I voted for Barack because I feel his policies are more closely in line with the ways of Jesus. It is sad because we should not be forced by the government to give to the poor and oppressed. I used to vote Republican because I thought less taxes meant more money in the pocket and more opportunity for the Church to be the Church. But that is failed because the church is not the church. My heart is to see the broken, the oppressed, and the poor find hope. As the government implements solid policies to help them we as the church should be the church. If the church becomes what God intended then many of the political debates go away because the issues begin to diminish.

Acts 2:42-47 has many things to say about politics. What if 100 million people lived this way? What if we had everything in common and sold possessions so that everyone was without need? What would this mean for healthcare? for Abortion? for same sex marriage? Financially?

I think that the financial benefits for people are obvious. But what about healthcare, if we were living like Acts 2 then healthcare for everyone would be provided for by each other. If we lived in a community like this we would have the best healthcare ever and everyone would have it. This would happen because we would be living selflessly not selfishly. If everyone felt loved and accepted there would not be as high a need for abortion. Abortions happen just as frequently in the church as outside. This is because people feel shame, guilty, and don’t feel they can be honest with the church because they will be looked down upon. If we had a Church of love, grace, and forgiveness the need for Abortion would greatly diminish. The same thing goes for same sex marriage. Many of the people who are drawn to homosexuality are drawn to it because of the lack of love in their life. A community like Acts 2 would greatly diminish the need for same sex marriage. I understand that because of ‘The Fall’ and the sinful world we have from Adam that some people might be born a homosexual. I also understand that this is a controversial stance to take but even if you are born gay and the Church is being the Church then it will be a lot easier to deal with that as well as any other addiction that isn’t as overt.

It is our job as one who is in the church to be in the world but not of the world, we are to create culture not succumb to the culture, and we are to lead a revolutionary movement. The early church was a revolutionary movement. It was a lot harder to be a Christian then than it is now and yet how come it seems we have a lot harder time actually being what God called us to?

Greed has set in on the Church. It is obvious with this recession. Because the Church has not been the Church for so long the government is stepping up. It is my hope that the steps taken by the government will help the church to see their flaws and step up to the plate and change this culture. Jesus is definitely not a Republican because I think that over the last 20 years Republican policies have just shown greed and selfishness. Jesus is definitely not a Democrat either as hope is ultimately found in Jesus not the almighty dollar. But right now the Democrats seem to be the party that most addresses issues Jesus addresses. Some may not like that last statement and if you didn’t then ask yourself this question: What are you doing to address the issues Jesus addresses?

It is my desire that this be said of me, “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me…” (Matthew 25:34-36)

…Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:40)

What are you doing for the least of these?

Let’s become the revolutionary movement Jesus intended.

Let’s change the world.

Let’s be the Church.

The Anointing

2009-01-27T09:17:00.002-05:00

What is the anointing and how can we receive it? Why should we receive it?

There are so many times when 2 different bands play the same worship song and in pretty much the same way yet one gets a much better response. Why is that? I believe it is because of anointing. Yes, there is talent involved but anointing overrides talent every single time. If we are a leader we can choke out the anointing. If we want our people working for us to have an anointing we have to pursue the same anointing. The anointing is simply where God is.

Exodus 30:25-29 says, "25 Make these into a sacred anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer. It will be the sacred anointing oil. 26 Then use it to anoint the Tent of Meeting, the ark of the Testimony, 27 the table and all its articles, the lampstand and its accessories, the altar of incense, 28 the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand. 29 You shall consecrate them so they will be most holy, and whatever touches them will be holy."

The purpose of the anointing oil in the old testament was to purify or anoint where God was or what was most holy. Now, because Jesus died and the holy of holies no longer exists like it did then it now exists in us as believers. The word "Christ" literally translated means "Anointed". According to scripture in Romans 8:11 we have the same power that raised Christ from the dead. In John 14:12 Jesus talks about how because he is going to the father we will do even greater things than him.

All of this study and more would lead you to believe and I believe that we all have the same anointing. But we are still stuck with the question of why does it seem that the Spirit's anointing is more on one person or ministry than another. I believe it is because one has learned to walk and live in that anointing and one has not. 1 John 2:20 says, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One." John is speaking to the church here and reminding them that they know the truth because of their anointing. He is encouraging them to walk in that anointing and put off the anti-christ. The language he uses seems to be that he is reminding them of what they have which you could say that they weren't walking in it at that time.

What would our church or ministry look like if the leaders walked in the anointing of God everyday? What would our church look like if we all, as believers, walked in the anointing of God everyday?

I think that if we all did this the presence of God would be so powerful when we got together as believers that the fire would come. The fire of God. The passion of God. The revolution of God would come to our city and it would never ever be the same.

Father, may I walk in your anointing today. May you guide my steps. May your Spirit's presence be upon me. Use me father to start a revolution.

Amen!

Inauguration

2009-01-20T09:11:00.002-05:00

What an exciting day! Barack Obama will be installed as the next president of the United States today and that is very exciting. It is for many reasons that it is exciting. Obama represents the hope that Americans have for a better America, he represents unity that we so desperately crave, he represents the african american community that has been discriminated against and there are people who thought they would never see a black president. No matter where you stand on the political side of things you have to be excited about today's historic events. In my opinion no matter where you are at on this issues today is a day to put those aside and celebrate this historic event.

Immerse Update

2008-12-23T10:53:00.002-05:00

Immerse is going strong. I am really excited about what God is doing in Immerse and I can't wait to see what he does in the future. We have been steadily growing as a ministry and we are looking to expand even more. This past week we had 140 people in attendance, we built an interactive Jewish home to signify where Jesus was born and the sacrifice that it represented, the Holy Spirit really showed up in Worship, and we had some awesome videos. God really moved in a powerful way. Praise Him!

Last night we had another Community Outreach event and we reached out to some folks that aren't in our target group but are definitely on our hearts, the elderly. We Caroled in an elderly community and touched many different people thru carols. It was awesome.

We have over 60 people in 8 community groups that consider themselves Immerse. We are anticipating multiplying at least two of those groups over the next year. God is definitely moving.

Socially we are playing some football tomorrow morning in North Brunswick if you would like to join us. We are planning a dinner in February and something fun in January. People are getting connected and it is neat to see.

God is moving in people. The ministry is all about reaching and connecting people to Christ. Pray for us. Encourage us. Support us in any way you can.

Merry Christmas!

Gifts

2008-12-16T11:43:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that this Christmas our Community group is Conspiring against our culture. We want to build a well in Africa for those that need fresh water. I personally am doing this by taking my Christmas gift budget, cutting it in half, and giving that half to this organization that builds wells. I was inspired by this video called Advent conspiracy.

Or click on this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVqqj1v-ZBU

The goal is to raise 5,000 dollars which will provide a well for a whole village. We figured this was an attainable goal if our friends and family joined us in the effort. We also thought it was cool that when we meet our goal and the well is built, we would be given the exact GPS coordinates and an actual photograph of the well. Rob Larsen our Immerse Community Group Coach is running point on this. He set up a page on charity water's website: http://www.charitywater.org/pages/roblarsen/

This is the season for giving so why don't we all conspire to give a gift that we all take for granted to a group of people who's lives will be changed forever.

Please join us in this effort!

Goals

2008-12-15T15:04:00.003-05:00

Today Josh asked each of the strategy team members to report the goals we accomplished over the last year and what we hope to accomplish in the coming year. It is tough to find a good measurement of success in ministry. Ultimately growing numbers of people coming to your ministry and coming to Christ show success but it may take years before you see any fruit of your labor. I feel like at Princeton Alliance we have developed some good barometers to measure if you are doing your job. It isn't perfect but a good test.

Here is what I reported for the Immerse Ministry. Praise God for all that he accomplished this year in our ministry. I have to ask myself am I setting goals that stretch me and that are beyond my limits. To me if I am reaching my goals, coming close, or going beyond my goals then maybe my goals aren't big enough. I want 2009 to be a year of goals that only can be reached if God is involved. Stretch us!

In 2008 we started the ministry known as Immerse. This Sunday will be our 12th month and God has brought us so far!

Here is what I wrote in my report:

1. Monthly worship service

GOAL: Average 100

Reality: Averaging 118 this fall

2. Community Groups

GOAL: 8 Viable Groups

Reality: 7 and 1/2 Viable groups (we sent 4-5 people to a non-Immerse group)

3. Community Service/Outreach

GOAL: Monthly Outreach Project

Reality: 1-2 Outreach projects per month

4. Campus Partnerships

GOAL: 5 partnerships at 2 of the 4 major campus'

Reality: 8 Partnerships at 3 of the 4 major campus'

5. Internships

GOAL: 5 Interns

Reality: 9 Interns

Praise God!

Missions

2008-12-10T11:54:00.002-05:00

Should ours lives as Christians be dedicated to Missions? If we are committed to Completing Christ's Mission he left us in Matthew 28 then we should be. God is teaching me that completing the mission is holistic. Acts 1:8 says, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Notice it doesn't say: some of you will go to Jerusalem some of you to Judea and some of you to Samaria. I do think as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 12 some of us are called to different things specifically. This can be translated in our context as specific calls to different areas but we are all called to Acts 1:8.

Do we make excuses for not going to the ends of the earth because our specific call is to Jerusalem?

God disturb us, break us, shatter us, destroy us, mess up our current thinking to complete your mission.

Tis' the Season

2008-12-08T11:45:00.002-05:00

This Holiday season is filled with lots of activities. There are many things to keep us busy like decorating, Christmas films, baking, football, basketball, concerts, church, serving, etc. This past week has been filled with all of the above. I had fun: seeing Rutgers dominate Louisville and Dominating Manhattan Madness. I did some good: Our Immerse ministry went to The Rescue Mission in Trenton and sorted clothes, blankets, and coats to be handed out to the homeless. I heard Trace Bundy place some amazing music and bought some of his CDs for a Christmas gifts. All in all a great week. But you know what, my wife and I missed on quality time. A lot of us this time of year commit to DOing. We have long lists of to dos and miss out on just being. Just be with your family and most of all this holiday season be with God.

In all of your to do lists this holiday season ask yourself Is what I am about to do taking away from being with immediate Family and God? If so, then don't do it.

Have a great christmas season!

Where do we go?

2008-12-02T10:11:00.002-05:00

In our culture we do many things that are good and right. For example many business' are cutting back on production among other things in anticipation of a season of low spending etc. To me that is very smart so that companies don't go bankrupt. It is a good plan to do less as a business. It is counter cultural to think that you should actually do more. In the Kingdom of God it is my belief that we should do more.

As churches we should expand rather than cut. There is no greater time than now to reap the harvest of those who are lost. People's hearts are going to be at their most vulnerable to except the love of Jesus and we would do well to find ways to produce more rather than less in the kingdom of God.

DO NOT let these trying financial times hinder what you are dreaming to do for God. In 2 Corinthians 8 we find the Macedonians in a lot worse off situation than we currently are and they did more and more for the kingdom. In verses 3 and 4 it talks about how the Macedonians pleaded for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people despite extreme poverty. I also don't read in scripture about Jesus having tons of money or Paul having tons of money yet of anyone in scripture they expanded the Kingdom more than anyone.

Does it take money to plant a church? Open a Community Center? Expand Advertising of relief aid the church has? Yes. It costs money to do ministry but who oversees it all? That is right GOD DOES!

Proverbs 16:3 "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."

Culture

2008-11-24T10:10:00.002-05:00

Where we live in New Jersey there are many different cultures around. We have people represented in New Jersey from practically every nation. With culture comes many different forms of religious backgrounds. What is your knowledge of the religious backgrounds of those around you? It could go a long way to developing a solid relationship with them. Our church is offering a 4 week class in January on different religions. This could be an incredible opportunity for you to start your journey on learning about different cultures. If you would like more info on the classes email me at: mmurphy@princetonalliance.org. If we look at scripture we see Peter in Acts 3 knowing exactly where the Jewish people were coming from. When you look at Paul on Mars Hill in Acts 17 he knew exactly where the Greeks were coming from. Do you know where your next door neighbor is coming from religiously?

Barriers to Team

2008-11-20T10:59:00.002-05:00

Before I became a full-time pastor I was a college basketball coach for 5 years. During that time I learned a lot about building a team. I feel like building a team is one of my strengths and I have built many teams in ministry successfully based on principles I learned coaching. Here are 5 barriers I think that hinder growth as a team.

1. Unclear Expectations- If everyone on the team does not know their role then it will hinder growth as a team.

2. Selfishness- If there are people on the team who are out on their own agenda then it will hinder the whole team. If people want to be in a different role than what is beneficial for the team, want to take all the credit, or become egotistical that the team is there to serve them then the team will not grow.

3. Harboring Conflict- If someone has a problem with someone else on the team then they should deal with it and not hold it in. If there is unresolved conflict then it will hinder the growth of the team. Healthy conflict is good for the team.

4. Mentally Weak- A team needs to be mentally tough. If every time there is a setback people fall apart emotionally or if every time there is a success people get too excited then there is a problem. Being mentally tough is not letting yourself get too high or too low. Many times when a team is mentally weak they take small things and make them big and it affects your outcome as a team.

5. Bad Apples- Many times you can have someone extremely talented but they become a cancer that infects the whole team. When that happens the bad apple needs to be cut out. To me building the right team is having the right people on the team. It all starts with the right person. In basketball there were many times that the right decision was to bench our best player because he was a cancer for the rest of the team. In ministry dealing with this person is even harder because many times they are a volunteer or getting paid to do ministry which many times isn't very much. It is hard to do that because they are so talented but in the end the team is better because the cancer is gone. You know if there is a bad apple in the team. If there is they need to be dealt with. No matter how talented they are. NO ONE is bigger than your team. As soon as someone thinks that they are then the cancer has set in and needs to be dealt with. This barrier to building an effective team is the hardest one to overcome.

If you have an effective team, a cohesive unit, you can accomplish anything you dream about. In basketball I saw many times a better team go farther and accomplish more than the more talented one. Same with ministry. I have seen a cohesive team of middle schoolers accomplish more than a disfunctional team of adults. I have seen a cohesive team of adult ministry volunteers accomplish more than a disfunctional team of paid ministry leaders. It is all about team.

Serving

2008-11-17T10:26:00.003-05:00

This week at Immerse we talked about missions. We asked people to sign up to serve in different areas that our church is doing over the next month or so. We asked people to pray for many of the missionaries that our church supports. It is good to always be reminded that we are to love and impact those around us.

On Wednesday I was made aware that someone hurt themself and could not rake their yard so that night at our community group I asked our guys to step up. They stepped up. We served the Plainsboro community by raking someone's yard that needed it. At 9am on a wet Saturday morning when you could have been watching College Gameday or sleeping people got up to serve. It was a cool thing to see and experience. It felt good to know we were helping someone out. For our community group it wasn't about being recognized as the lady wasn't even home to see who did it. It was all about impacting our community with love. I know 6 people who have caught that love. What would it be like if everyone in our ministry caught the love?

Last Day

2008-11-05T11:11:00.003-05:00

Today was our last day in Taiwan. We exchanged phone number and email addresses with some of the close contacts in Taiwan that we made. We said good-bye which was sad but we will be back soon. Today we did a lot of hanging out in Ximen. We shot a vision video with Jason that he is going to edit for us to use when we get back to the states to show people about what is going on here in Ximen. We hung out for a while playing trick card games in front of the store here in Ximen and we started to attract a crowd which was cool. Then the president of Taiwan attended a movie right next door to the store we were at and we were able to see him. But right before that we got to walk the red carpet for the first time. We saw a really tall looking guy get out of a limo type car and dressed in a suit so we decided to follow him and act like we belonged. While doing this all the asian security guys kept waving us to keep going and we walked the red carpet, had our pictures taken by the media, and we will probably be on the Taiwanese news:) A lot of fun. We closed out the night by going to an arcade with Apow and Chris then we played pool with Kenji and his friends. After playing pool we took Kenji and his friends to Friday's where we got them American food. It was a lot of fun. Now it is time to get ready to leave at 6am in the morning. America here I come!

Agent

2008-11-04T12:12:00.008-05:00

Cool Shots in Taiwan:

Today we hung out with Patricia for lunch and she helped us do some souvenir shopping. Patricia is a Taiwanese pastor working in the suburbs of Taipei. She was very excited to meet us. We then went to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial. He was the guy who came to Taiwan and turned it into a Democratic nation when China was going to communism. It was very interesting to see what he did. We then went to meet up with Kenji again and we went to his college class. During class it was very odd. The whole time the teacher was talking the students were just conversing among themselves. The class was English so at the break a lot of the students were eager to try their English on us. One guy came up to us and said he was an agent, Jason then commented "Secret"? Then he replied, "No. Chemical." We met a Chemical Agent. Funny. We then met many students and hung out during their break. Then the teacher asked us to share why we were in Taipei. Jason told the class we were here to see how we could minister to students in Ximen and asked them to help translate in the Summer. Then Kenji got up in front of the class and told them that we were there to help people find Jesus. It was cool. We then went back to the Loft and talked to the college students and prayed for them. That was a cool experience to be able to minister to them in a real way. We moved into the Rainbow Hotel for the last two nights which will be good to get into a bed and air conditioning. We then headed to Mcdonalds for a late night snack. Taiwan has been an awesome experience. There is only one day left. Looking forward to coming home and seeing Joshua and Kelly. I love them so much. Can't wait to see them.

Here are some pics:

Patricia

Memorial
Rainbow Hotel

Me with Kenji and his classmates

Balls

2008-11-03T10:22:00.009-05:00

Above is Erik, Me, Ryan, and Jason (the crew visiting from America and the people I have been hanging with most of the week)

Today we hung out with Kenji who is one of the first people at this mission that has come to Christ. He is a 21 year old college student who is really awesome. He came with us to a large Temple in Taipei called the Longshui temple. He explained a lot of what goes on with the temple. They have so many gods. It is interesting as it seems like they take Jesus and they take his aspects and break him down into hundreds of little gods. They have a god of love, loyalty, money, that sees all, hears all, etc. Very intersting that the god of love was the one most worshiped in the temple we visited. We then took the High Speed Train down to the southern end of Taiwan to meet up with a couple of CMA missionaries. It was cool meeting with them. While meeting with them I tried a testicle from some unknown animal. It didn't taste too bad. Tonight we hung out with Kenji again and went to McDonalds for some ice cream and then we capped the night by riding Kenji's scooter down the street. It was a lot of fun.

Here are some pics from the day:

Testicle

Me on scooter sideways

High Speed Rail

Kenji

Me in Front of the Temple

Touring Day

2008-11-02T08:34:00.005-05:00

Today we toured some of the country regions. We went to a couple of markets. Saw a Taiwanese traditional parade. It was really hot and humid today. I am pretty sure I got dehydration as I felt sick later in the afternoon but I got a ton of water in me and felt a lot better. Last night I had a lot of trouble sleeping so hopefully when I go to bed tonight I can sleep better. When we got back in the evening we toured a couple of spots where they are dreaming about putting their future church. A couple of the buildings were outside of this park where a missions team hosted an outreach party. Inside the park there were a bunch of teenagers tripping on drugs. It was really sad to see them that way but gave me a passion to see this church planted and these people redeemed.

Here are some pictures from today:

Me walking a parade at one of the markets we visited:

Beggar laying in the middle of a market
One of the buildings they would put the church in:

The 101

2008-11-01T13:24:00.007-04:00

Today we walked the Ximen Ding district in Taipei. It was an awesome experience seeing all the different things. We visited to Dao temples and they were very depressing. Basically people offer up prayers to the "gods" that their dead ancestors will have a good day. If they don't then they think they will have a bad day. Kind of simplified but the basic concept is it is a religion run on fear and sadness. There really is no hope. It is great that there is a group of people that are living here looking to bring hope to these people. The primary "in" to people's lives here is teaching them English. I met a few different people here who were learning English and their text was the Bible. Cool Stuff. In fact we hung out with about 5-6 different people today just because they wanted to try and speak English to us. What a great opportunity of influence that American's can have in this culture. There is immediate respect and honor given to those who speak English.

The Ximen Ding district is actually built over an ancient burial ground so by the older generation the district is looked down upon. But there are thousands and thousands of young people who hang out there. Everyone is friendly and willing to carry on a conversation with you. This will be a great place to take a team to help them start a church here. It is very relational ministry here and very powerful.

We visited the 101 which was the tallest building in the world until Dubai built one taller in September. We walked out on the observatory deck which was awesome. We had great food at the base of the building and even took home the chop sticks:)

Here are some pics:

Some people who are on the trip: Chris (live in missionary), Erik (colorado), ryan (portland), Me, Jason (National Office), Epong (works the store)

The 101 Building
Some people we hung out with in the Ximen Ding(Eric, Ryan, Dave, girl, Jason, Eric, Me)

Ximen Ding at Night(Somewhat similar to Times Square though not as big)

Me In Front of the Ximen Ding

Taiwan

2008-10-31T15:25:00.002-04:00

I traveled to Taiwan today and it was amazing. The traveling was long and tiring but we are here. We haven't even started and what they are doing here is awesome. They are creating marketplace venues to connect with people and start a church. Right now they own a clothing store and are looking to open a burger joint with the intent of starting a church. That is awesome. As soon as we got here we took a bunch of college students out for ice cream at like 1am. It was cool to meet some Taiwanese young adults. I learned my chinese name is Mashow. Cool stuff.

I will be here for 5 more days learning about the missions work God is doing in Taiwan and how we can be a part.

Today

2008-10-24T12:20:00.002-04:00

I feel like I am wasting it somewhat. Spending a lot of time on the computer just looking through facebook and twitter. Joshua is sleeping. I am thinking that I will go out and take him on a walk. It is tough taking your day off when Kelly is working. It would be really nice to spend one day just hanging with her all day and doing nothing church related. Pretty much everyday is a day where church is involved in our relationship. Friday is the only day I am doing nothing with the church and she is at work. Someday that will change. Hopefully there will come a day where we can afford for her to stay at home on Friday's. I have a plan.

I am going to write a book someday. Maybe I should start that today.

Leadership

2008-09-30T10:13:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about leadership and what that looks like in the church. Partly because I am teaching on it this Sunday. I am looking for simple ways to communicate to people what we want. I thought let me look at how Jesus developed leaders. Then I decided to study the life of Peter and how Jesus developed him.

1. Jesus Called Him (Luke 5:1-11)
2. Jesus Dealt with Character (Mark 1:35:example;All of Jesus' teachings)
3. Jesus Healed Him (John 21)
4. Jesus Released Him to Go (John 21:15-17; Matthew 28:19-20)

As we train up our leaders we are going to look at three aspects.

1. Character
2. Healing
3. Practical

All three relate directly with how Jesus built leaders. As we look at how to build the Church what better way is there to learn how to develop leaders?

Serving at Princeton Junction Train Station

2008-09-18T10:18:00.001-04:00

Yesterday our community group went to the Princeton Junction Train Station at 6pm. We had 128 bottles of water that we handed out. It was an awesome time just to sit back and serve. Yeah people in the Princeton area aren't in need of water but just the act of giving someone something to brighten their day WAS an act of service. So many people (128 in fact) accepted the bottles of water with a smile. There were many people who asked us why we were doing it. We simply said something to the nature of "we just want to bless you after a long day at work." People loved what we were doing it was awesome. One guy was sitting off by himself and I asked him if he wanted water and he thanked me and said, "I really needed this today, Thanks." I don't know what was going on with him on that day but I couldn't help but think about what could be going on in his life. Maybe he lost his job, money, a relationship, got yelled at, in trouble, or whatever. But the simply act of giving away something, showing God's love in a practical way, lifted the spirits of someone who needed it.

How can I take that concept and practice it everyday?

We are going to continue handing out water bottles every Wednesday at 6pm at Princeton Junction Train Station on the South side of the tracks. Feel free to join us.

Immerse

2008-09-16T11:51:00.002-04:00

I haven't been on for while. In blogger world that is bad but I have been extremely busy with life. Since I last wrote my son Joshua was born and for those of you who have young children that is all I need to say. We have had missions trips, vacations, VBS, and many other fun summer things.

It is amazing as we head toward the fall. Immerse has a lot of momentum. We had over 50 people sign up this past weekend look for information about Immerse at our tables and another 50 people sign the connection cards in the sanctuary about being involved. It is safe to say that people who are young adults are excited about Immerse. We are looking forward to launching a new season this Sunday. If anyone is actually still reading this. I hope you can make it. This Sunday starting at 5pm in the Sanctuary.

See you there!

Discipleship

2008-04-28T14:03:00.003-04:00

God has been hitting me hard the last month about discipleship. I think as a church, on a whole, we have not done a good job at discipling people. It seems more and more people just repeat one year of discipleship how many ever years they have been a Christian. So in Spiritual years they are only one or two years old. How can we help people grow in maturity? That is the question on my mind a lot lately.

Vision

2008-04-23T06:57:00.003-04:00

I heard Andy Stanley Speak yesterday on making vision stick. He had 5 points that were good and easy to remember.

1. Make it Simple

2. Cast it Convincingly

3. Repeat it Regularly

4. Celebrate it Systematically

5. Embrace it Personally

There were questions he gave to clarify your vision. This would be a good exercise for us all to do with whatever it is we are doing.

What does you vision boil down to everyday? What should you be always striving towards?

How does our vision address a problem?

What is the problem that our vision addresses?

What must be done in the environment you are in?

What would go undone if you church/organization ceased to exist?

Explain Why Now?

Power

2008-04-21T13:52:00.002-04:00

Last night at Immerse was awesome. We had about 100 people in attendance and God really showed up. We had a time where God just wouldn't let us stop. We had people praying over an hour after our official end. It was absolutely amazing. I am still riding a high after seeing God move in such a remarkable way.

This week I am in Orlando at a church planters conference. I am in a session with Mark Batterson. It is awesome. What a start to my week. God is really moving.

Kansas

2008-04-08T09:35:00.003-04:00

Wow what a game last night. I am a little tired this morning after that game but wow, that has to be the best championship game that I can remember. Kansas showed great heart after being down 9 points with 2:12 to go, hitting a three at the buzzer to push the game to overtime, and then pulling away in overtime. The nice thing is I picked Kansas at the beginning of the tourney to win it all!

We as young adults played ultimate frisbee on Sunday. It seems we will keep doing stuff like this just to hang out and connect. Low Commitment Events are great ways to connect people to the church. People are looking for community and we want to give that to them. Our next Immerse Worship event is April 20th. Look for ways to connect people to Jesus and other people. As ideas come let me know.

Meeting Day

2008-04-03T09:33:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was meeting day. It was long and tiring but I felt like I accomplished something. Spent some time talking about personal vision, planned weekend worship service, strategized community groups, and planned our next immerse event.

I am learning that accomplishing your vision comes with a price. It is something that in its ideal is beautiful but getting there is messy. This is true of life vision, family vision, work vision, and ministry vision. I am a guy who dreams big dreams and I hate it when I get mickey mouse instead of big dreams. But God has called us to pursue the dreams he has given us. I am going to pursue those dreams that he has given me.

Random Thought: I read a blog by Craig Groeschel entitled: Reverend Steve Jobs
You should read it. It is funny. What would it be like if we all worshipped to our iPods rather than a band?