Sometimes I just have to make myself put down work and sink myself into some down time. Not just studying for my next Sunday night, or rehearsing for the next worship set, but just time to listen. I talk too much. My life is too noisy at times. I can't hear the little things that God wants to teach me.
Last weekend was fun. My buddy Ray did a great job organizing the Super Bowl party and we had a great turnout. Good job Ray dog.
All I know is that the Cowboys beat the Colts. How 'bout them Cowboys?!!
I'm out...
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Friday, February 02, 2007
it's about time....
Super Bowl weekend.......I love it. Wish the Cowboys were there, but oh well......next year right?!
So we had our Focus Weekend last weekend. A weekend of discipleship, fellowship, and a lot of fun for our students. Wes Hamilton was our speaker and Branch was the band. It was great. We even had a roller disco on Saturday night. That was groovy.....know what I mean. I'll post some pictures as soon as I sort through them all.
Springcreek is buzzing with excitement. For 18 months or so we have been talking about creating a buzz, and working at the direction and focus of this church. The series we just finished, "On A Mission From God," just summed it all up. It truly was a culmination of all of the things we've been moving toward for the last year. I am so excited about the energy that has been created around here.
This is going to be a very busy year for SCC and I am pumped to see all that happens. I know that God has orchestrated things so that it all has led to this point, and I just pray that we continue to follow His lead in all of the things to come. The energy is amazing, the people I get to work with.....incredible, and the people I get to worship with every week......a blessing.
I'm out.......
So we had our Focus Weekend last weekend. A weekend of discipleship, fellowship, and a lot of fun for our students. Wes Hamilton was our speaker and Branch was the band. It was great. We even had a roller disco on Saturday night. That was groovy.....know what I mean. I'll post some pictures as soon as I sort through them all.
Springcreek is buzzing with excitement. For 18 months or so we have been talking about creating a buzz, and working at the direction and focus of this church. The series we just finished, "On A Mission From God," just summed it all up. It truly was a culmination of all of the things we've been moving toward for the last year. I am so excited about the energy that has been created around here.
This is going to be a very busy year for SCC and I am pumped to see all that happens. I know that God has orchestrated things so that it all has led to this point, and I just pray that we continue to follow His lead in all of the things to come. The energy is amazing, the people I get to work with.....incredible, and the people I get to worship with every week......a blessing.
I'm out.......
Friday, January 12, 2007
butterfingers
So after a week of mourning, I was feeling better, and ready to start thinking about the 2007 Cowboys. This morning was my weekly breakfast with my daughter Brooke..........Chick-fil-A was her choice today, so all was good.
We walk in and there are these two little boys (9-10 years old) with one of their dads. One has on a Seattle Seahawks, #37 Shaun Alexander jersey and one has on a #9 Tony Romo, Cowboys jersey. Immediately.....the pain, the disbelief, the shock of last weekend came flooding back. Brooke looked at me as if to say.....should we go somewhere else? But I pressed on......reminding myself that he is just a little kid......so forgiving, so positive. I sat down with my daughter and began enjoying our breakfast and conversation..................then it happened.
The mini Romo went to the counter to get a refill. I saw him. The #9 on his back caused me to lose all confidence in his ability to order for himself and return to his seat with what he went up there for in the first place. I saw the lady behind the counter reach for a new cup and fill it up with the beverage of his choice (probably fruit punch). Mini Romo took the cup and turned to go back to his table where his dad was sitting there beaming with pride. Then it happened.........it was a new cup, slippery and unworn. The grip was unfamiliar to his little hands and he just couldn't hold on. It hit the floor with a crash. He tried to catch it before it hit and just couldn't do it. The look on his face was one of utter disbelief. He buried his mini Romo face into his hands. Meanwhile....mini Shaun Alexander was busting into laughter. Dad new he couldn't do anything but wait till next time.
I don't know that I'll be able to return to Chick-fil-A for a few days. I've regressed in my sorrow thanks to mini Romo.
And who cares if David Beckham is coming to the U.S. to play soccer......as long as his wife and her Spice Girls keep their careers in hiding. Just a random rant......
I'm out.....
We walk in and there are these two little boys (9-10 years old) with one of their dads. One has on a Seattle Seahawks, #37 Shaun Alexander jersey and one has on a #9 Tony Romo, Cowboys jersey. Immediately.....the pain, the disbelief, the shock of last weekend came flooding back. Brooke looked at me as if to say.....should we go somewhere else? But I pressed on......reminding myself that he is just a little kid......so forgiving, so positive. I sat down with my daughter and began enjoying our breakfast and conversation..................then it happened.
The mini Romo went to the counter to get a refill. I saw him. The #9 on his back caused me to lose all confidence in his ability to order for himself and return to his seat with what he went up there for in the first place. I saw the lady behind the counter reach for a new cup and fill it up with the beverage of his choice (probably fruit punch). Mini Romo took the cup and turned to go back to his table where his dad was sitting there beaming with pride. Then it happened.........it was a new cup, slippery and unworn. The grip was unfamiliar to his little hands and he just couldn't hold on. It hit the floor with a crash. He tried to catch it before it hit and just couldn't do it. The look on his face was one of utter disbelief. He buried his mini Romo face into his hands. Meanwhile....mini Shaun Alexander was busting into laughter. Dad new he couldn't do anything but wait till next time.
I don't know that I'll be able to return to Chick-fil-A for a few days. I've regressed in my sorrow thanks to mini Romo.
And who cares if David Beckham is coming to the U.S. to play soccer......as long as his wife and her Spice Girls keep their careers in hiding. Just a random rant......
I'm out.....
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year....
Well.....Christmas is done, the New Year is underway.
Christmas at the Schmidt's was great. We were here for Christmas day, but drove down to Liberty, Texas to visit my mom for a couple of days after Christmas. Going down to Liberty was the first time I've driven through that much of East Texas in a long time. I was raised in that area, and had a good time back in the old stomping grounds. My kids had never been in that part of the state and they were enlightened. We fed cows, rode four-wheelers, shot squirrels, had squirrel dumplins.........and so on. My friend Bob says I'm country....he just does not know how much so.
I'm heart-broken by the Cowboys loss to the Lions.......the Lions. But, we are in the playoffs. How 'bout them Cowboys.
Speaking of football.......isn't New Year's Day great. I've been watching football since 10 o'clock this morning. We've had friends over, an awesome New Year's lunch with the fam......greatness.
Here are a couple of plugs on things I've learned over the break.....
1. Guitar Hero II is a stinkin' awesome game.
2. Go see "A Night at the Museum"
3. Go buy Chris Daughtry's cd.......he's the guy that should've won American Idol last year. It's
a great cd.
4. Don't move to Liberty, TX, but try squirrel dumplins the first chance you get....good eatin'
I'm out...
Christmas at the Schmidt's was great. We were here for Christmas day, but drove down to Liberty, Texas to visit my mom for a couple of days after Christmas. Going down to Liberty was the first time I've driven through that much of East Texas in a long time. I was raised in that area, and had a good time back in the old stomping grounds. My kids had never been in that part of the state and they were enlightened. We fed cows, rode four-wheelers, shot squirrels, had squirrel dumplins.........and so on. My friend Bob says I'm country....he just does not know how much so.
I'm heart-broken by the Cowboys loss to the Lions.......the Lions. But, we are in the playoffs. How 'bout them Cowboys.
Speaking of football.......isn't New Year's Day great. I've been watching football since 10 o'clock this morning. We've had friends over, an awesome New Year's lunch with the fam......greatness.
Here are a couple of plugs on things I've learned over the break.....
1. Guitar Hero II is a stinkin' awesome game.
2. Go see "A Night at the Museum"
3. Go buy Chris Daughtry's cd.......he's the guy that should've won American Idol last year. It's
a great cd.
4. Don't move to Liberty, TX, but try squirrel dumplins the first chance you get....good eatin'
I'm out...
Thursday, December 21, 2006
People Watching
I'm a people watcher. I love airports, malls, walmarts, and any other place you can just watch people.
That being said, this is a great time of year for people watching. They're everywhere. Not only that, but most are totally focused on getting stuff done and are really fun to watch. Not only that, but there are so many different styles and personalities. Here are a few I've noticed....
1. The Purpose Driven Shopper......it's all over their face. There is a reason I am here. Please
do not interrupt or try and talk to me until I am done. My face looks like this because
my butt really tight right now.
2. The Sad People........mainly teenage boys that wear girl pants. They wear their hair long
enough to cover half of their face, trying to hide their sadness. They walk around the mall
looking sad, listening to All-American Rejects, and pulling at their hair. They rarely eat
much because it would make them happy.
3. The Pre-People.........junior high kids....'nuff said
4. Hood Rats.........oversized hoodies, and pants that are way too big. When I see these guys I am
reminded why stores are always out of my size jeans. It's because these cats buy pants
10 sizes to big and hold them up while they limp along. Crazy....
5. Why Am I Here Guy......sits on the bench, legs crossed, shoot me now look on the face. I love
asking these guys "how you doin'?"
6. I'm Helping Him Buy Pants........The sad girls that walk around with the boys who wear girl
pants. Sometimes the only way to tell them apart is that this group sometimes smiles.
7. I Wish This Still Fit, But I'll Wear It Anyway...........no
8. The Blue Tooth Group..........not to be confused with The Blue Man Group. Wireless, mobile
communication.....what did we ever do without it? Just don't use it in the bathroom.
9. Sad Dad......Usually found near the "Why Am I Here Guy" trying to come to grips with the
fact that his son is wearing girl pants.
10. Mrs. Claus.......She wears everything Christmas. A very happy person. If spotted, try to
introduce them to one of the "Sad People." Fun to watch.
Happy people watching and Merry Christmas! I'm out.....
by the way...here are some pics from Krunkfest '06 at Springcreek with LeCrae. REPRESENT!
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Christmas at Ellen's
Christmas is in full swing at the Schmidt house. The Christmas tree is decorated, the lights outside are rockin', it's all good. I love this time of year. It's just a happy time.
Today was the annual staff Christmas lunch at Ellen's. Great food, even better company, a game or two involving pickles and such.....I just wish I could have gone back to the office and rolled out one of those little pre-school mats on my office floor and taken a nap. Why don't we do that as adults? We need the rest more than those little kids anyway. They can go all day and be worn down at night...when they need to be.
How 'bout those Cowboys!? 8-4 and in control of the NFC East. Look out...playoff time.
I'm out.....
Today was the annual staff Christmas lunch at Ellen's. Great food, even better company, a game or two involving pickles and such.....I just wish I could have gone back to the office and rolled out one of those little pre-school mats on my office floor and taken a nap. Why don't we do that as adults? We need the rest more than those little kids anyway. They can go all day and be worn down at night...when they need to be.
How 'bout those Cowboys!? 8-4 and in control of the NFC East. Look out...playoff time.
I'm out.....
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
in da hood...
Back from Houston....I was there talking about next summer's camp. We're going to be going to Lake Tomahawk with a few other churches so I was meeting with a couple of them to get some things planned.
As I was heading back to the airport today to come back home I drove through my old hood. So many memories.....It has changed so much. I saw the house I lived in when I was in junior high and drove by my old friend's houses. Some of their families still live there. I stopped and talked to Mr. Briscoe. He was old when I was there, so I can't imagine how old he is now. He still sits on his porch with a guitar and accordion. That's where I found him today. We used to have some fun playing George Jones, some Haggard, and some Hank Williams. Along with cajun songs, and songs that, to this day, I think ol' man Briscoe made up as we went along. Good times...
Then on the flight home I sat by Allie. She is a freshman in college at St. Thomas University in Houston. We had a great conversation about how God speaks to us, her struggles to lead in very tough environment, the state of the church, and stuff like that. She was not even supposed to be on the flight and felt that God had reminded her of just how he does speak by putting her there instead of her planned flight. I was also thankful because it wasn't the elderly lady that fell asleep on my arm on the flight to Houston. My arm smelled like moth balls and old lady perfume for hours. Thanks for the company and conversation Allie.
Glad to be back and glad to have some vacation this week. Oh yeah.....HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS?!!! 1st place baby.......
I'm out..
As I was heading back to the airport today to come back home I drove through my old hood. So many memories.....It has changed so much. I saw the house I lived in when I was in junior high and drove by my old friend's houses. Some of their families still live there. I stopped and talked to Mr. Briscoe. He was old when I was there, so I can't imagine how old he is now. He still sits on his porch with a guitar and accordion. That's where I found him today. We used to have some fun playing George Jones, some Haggard, and some Hank Williams. Along with cajun songs, and songs that, to this day, I think ol' man Briscoe made up as we went along. Good times...
Then on the flight home I sat by Allie. She is a freshman in college at St. Thomas University in Houston. We had a great conversation about how God speaks to us, her struggles to lead in very tough environment, the state of the church, and stuff like that. She was not even supposed to be on the flight and felt that God had reminded her of just how he does speak by putting her there instead of her planned flight. I was also thankful because it wasn't the elderly lady that fell asleep on my arm on the flight to Houston. My arm smelled like moth balls and old lady perfume for hours. Thanks for the company and conversation Allie.
Glad to be back and glad to have some vacation this week. Oh yeah.....HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS?!!! 1st place baby.......
I'm out..
Monday, November 06, 2006
rollin' dirty in the ATL....
Back in A-town.....
Flew into Atlanta today with Bob, Gerry, Ray, and Harp for the Northpoint Drive Conference. Bob and I are just hangin' out. The other guys went to eat, but I wasn't hungry. No, that is not a misprint and I am not sick....I'm just not hungry. Reason being.....a return trip to Daddy D'z Barbeque Joynt. Ribs, red beans and rice, fried okra, and cornbread. Not to mention their very unique appetizer, Que Wraps (barbequed pork, wrapped and deep fried).
Toured the CNN center this afternoon. Very cool. Saw a live newscast being sent right to your living room. No pictures allowed though....
Conference starts tonight....updates later. Here's a picture of me and Susanna, aka "the mean island woman" and Daddy D'z best waitress and inside CNN.
I'm out....
Friday, November 03, 2006
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
lo siento
That's I'm sorry for those of you who don't speak the language of our neighbors to the south. I was called out by a faithful reader for not including news of our incredible fall retreat and halloween party this past weekend.
We took our sr. high to Mt. Lebanon Baptist Camp Friday and Saturday. It was great. We had some good hang time and really concentrated on building relationships. Carlos Montoya was our retreat pastor and did a great job of putting our various relationships into perspective. He's right.....people have to trust you before they trust your God. Good stuff. Movie night Friday night was fun....hangin' out, watchin' "Nacho Libre." Es fantastic!
Sunday night was our visit to the Dallas Scaregrounds. Fun stuff. 57 kids, 3 haunted houses, various creatures and monsters roaming around outside and a big dance circle. Entertainment definitely worth the $12 ticket.
Well....I left my laptop at work tonight so that I wouldn't be tempted to work at home. I need to sleep. I say that because I have some good pictures of the retreat that I will post tomorrow.
Tonight was our 1st Wednesday communion service. I emceed the night while Pastors Bob and Ray answered various questions pertaining to God's will in our lives. It was great. Afterward I met with a few of the students that I'm getting the chance to mentor and we had some good discussion. They are some awesome kids! I love 'em.
Well.....I'm taking tomorrow off from working out in the morning. I'm up to 24 lbs. lost...feeling good. I'm out........
We took our sr. high to Mt. Lebanon Baptist Camp Friday and Saturday. It was great. We had some good hang time and really concentrated on building relationships. Carlos Montoya was our retreat pastor and did a great job of putting our various relationships into perspective. He's right.....people have to trust you before they trust your God. Good stuff. Movie night Friday night was fun....hangin' out, watchin' "Nacho Libre." Es fantastic!
Sunday night was our visit to the Dallas Scaregrounds. Fun stuff. 57 kids, 3 haunted houses, various creatures and monsters roaming around outside and a big dance circle. Entertainment definitely worth the $12 ticket.
Well....I left my laptop at work tonight so that I wouldn't be tempted to work at home. I need to sleep. I say that because I have some good pictures of the retreat that I will post tomorrow.
Tonight was our 1st Wednesday communion service. I emceed the night while Pastors Bob and Ray answered various questions pertaining to God's will in our lives. It was great. Afterward I met with a few of the students that I'm getting the chance to mentor and we had some good discussion. They are some awesome kids! I love 'em.
Well.....I'm taking tomorrow off from working out in the morning. I'm up to 24 lbs. lost...feeling good. I'm out........
Monday, October 30, 2006
Falling Back...
Things are slowing down finally. The Cryin' Eagles finished up 1-7. There was another 1-7 team, and one 0-8 team, so not a complete loss. I must say....having Tuesday and Thursday nights back will be nice, not to mention Saturdays.
Big Cowboys win last night over the Panthers. Still not convinced that Romo is the best man for the job, but he did well last night. How 'bout them Cowboys?!
Our GPS series is going well. Keith and Scott are deep in Africa right now and from what we've heard...it's pretty awesome! I can't wait to hear and see the work being accomplished there and how Springcreek can have a global impact on the kingdom of God. Exciting stuff!
I love it when we fall back an hour..........i think i'm going to set my clock back again tonight. I'm out....
Big Cowboys win last night over the Panthers. Still not convinced that Romo is the best man for the job, but he did well last night. How 'bout them Cowboys?!
Our GPS series is going well. Keith and Scott are deep in Africa right now and from what we've heard...it's pretty awesome! I can't wait to hear and see the work being accomplished there and how Springcreek can have a global impact on the kingdom of God. Exciting stuff!
I love it when we fall back an hour..........i think i'm going to set my clock back again tonight. I'm out....
Saturday, October 07, 2006
glad to be back...
Catalyst was pretty stinkin' awesome! Lots of great stuff on what it looks like to "be" the church in our community. I'm pretty pumped about the stuff I heard. I picked up a few books that I'm actually pretty excited about reading. They had a real good lineup of speakers. Leaders from many different cultures, backgrounds, etc....I was very impressed and would love to make this trip again next year.
I am glad to be home though...........there's just something about your own shower, bed, couch and everything when you've been gone for a little bit.
The Eagles' 1 game winning streak came to an end tonight at the hands of the Bison....19-0. Ugly! It was as if we had a team of swinging doors on the offensive line.
I'll upload some pictures from Atlanta tomorrow..........Cowboys v. Eagles tomorrow...I hate the Eagles (Philadelphia that is..). I'm out...
I am glad to be home though...........there's just something about your own shower, bed, couch and everything when you've been gone for a little bit.
The Eagles' 1 game winning streak came to an end tonight at the hands of the Bison....19-0. Ugly! It was as if we had a team of swinging doors on the offensive line.
I'll upload some pictures from Atlanta tomorrow..........Cowboys v. Eagles tomorrow...I hate the Eagles (Philadelphia that is..). I'm out...
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
"A-Town"
Just hangin' out in Atlanta for a few days. We're at the Catalyst Conference. It's going great. Heard some great stuff today from Mike Foster, Chris Seay, and Rick McKinley on what doing ministry, and showing the love Christ should look like in today's churches. McKinley had some great stuff to say about how to "be the church" as opposed to "building the church." It was awesome. I'm a big fan of Chris Seay, so it's always good to hangout with him. We've worked together several times over the years at various conferences and stuff, and he always has good stuff to say.
Jay and I went into downtown Atlanta tonight for dinner. We walked around Olympic Park, CNN Center, The Georgia Dome, Philips Arena, etc... It was very cool. My son was pumped that I was actually at the home of Cartoon Network and Boomerang.
We topped the night off by finding the best barbeque place I have ever been in my life. It was just a little shack on Martin Luther King Blvd. in Atlanta. Daddy D'z Barbeque Joint. Unbelievable pork ribs, red beans and rice, cornbread. Our waitress, Suzanne, was awesome! She sat down and talked with us and just hungout.
It kind of made me think about what the church would look like if we just slowed down our lives and schedules to sit down with people and just hangout and form relationships. It could be that we keep ourselves so busy that we miss out on some real opportunities to reach people and form some great relationships that lead to God moments. Just being the church instead of concentrating on building the church.
All that from a great waitress in a little shack of a barbeque place in Atlanta. I'm coming back to Atlanta soon and I'll be heading back to Daddy D'z......
More from the ATL tomorrow.....peace out, A-town down. I'm out...
Jay and I went into downtown Atlanta tonight for dinner. We walked around Olympic Park, CNN Center, The Georgia Dome, Philips Arena, etc... It was very cool. My son was pumped that I was actually at the home of Cartoon Network and Boomerang.
We topped the night off by finding the best barbeque place I have ever been in my life. It was just a little shack on Martin Luther King Blvd. in Atlanta. Daddy D'z Barbeque Joint. Unbelievable pork ribs, red beans and rice, cornbread. Our waitress, Suzanne, was awesome! She sat down and talked with us and just hungout.
It kind of made me think about what the church would look like if we just slowed down our lives and schedules to sit down with people and just hangout and form relationships. It could be that we keep ourselves so busy that we miss out on some real opportunities to reach people and form some great relationships that lead to God moments. Just being the church instead of concentrating on building the church.
All that from a great waitress in a little shack of a barbeque place in Atlanta. I'm coming back to Atlanta soon and I'll be heading back to Daddy D'z......
More from the ATL tomorrow.....peace out, A-town down. I'm out...
Sunday, October 01, 2006
V is for Victory
Well.....the nation's longest scoreless, pee-wee football streak is over. As is the 4 game losing streak of the mighty Garland Eagles. We are in the win column with a dominant 14-6 victory over the Falcons. There was no whining and crying in the Eagle camp Saturday........nothing but the sweet sound of victory. How 'bout them Eagles?!!
Huge Cowboys win today............45-14. It has been a long time since the 'boys have put those kind of numbers on somebody.
What a great weekend. I gave the kids permission to celebrate until tomorrow.......then it's back to the grind of preparing for next week's battle against the might Bison. I'm going to watch some game film with my son..............okay so we're watching Spongebob, but it's back to work tomorrow. We have a win streak to protect.
I'm out.....
Huge Cowboys win today............45-14. It has been a long time since the 'boys have put those kind of numbers on somebody.
What a great weekend. I gave the kids permission to celebrate until tomorrow.......then it's back to the grind of preparing for next week's battle against the might Bison. I'm going to watch some game film with my son..............okay so we're watching Spongebob, but it's back to work tomorrow. We have a win streak to protect.
I'm out.....
Friday, September 29, 2006
under the skin.....
There are some things that just bug me. You know.......why the Taco Bell by my house cannot get a drive thru order correct...that bugs me. Parents that can't get their kid to practice, but then want to know why I don't play them the whole game......bugs me. But I think the one thing that bugs me most is whining. Granted....kids are going to whine and that's is somewhat acceptable, but adult whining is the worst.
This morning I was reading through some blogs that I occasionally follow and I came across one that just really has a tendency to irk me sometimes. The self-professed "church planter" blogger continually whines about "hypocrisy in church leadership," sermons and series being preached at other churches, dismissal of staff members at other churches, etc......Comparing the ministry of his church and others he has emulated to what he deems to be failing, or not doing things the "right way."
Most of the time the opinions stated on this blog come across as the bitter, whinings of a small individual with an extreme case of tunnel vision and "me"itis.
I have a tendency sometimes.....okay a lot.....to open my mouth for no other reason but to switch feet, but I do try to have facts to substantiate what I am saying. Most of the time I try to keep the writings on this blog light, funny, somewhat encouraging, sometimes reflective...but I try to not run down the ministry someone else is doing.
Different churches approach things in different ways for many different reasons. Staff members change for many reasons. Philosophies are adjusted and teams work together for the good of the church. I'm not seminary educated (some would say I should be thankful for that), but I think there are some things that I can see without that clouding my vision.
I am a church plant. I was planted here to do what God called me to do in the ways that he provides and directs. As churches grow, changes of many kinds occur. But I believe that if you're not changing, you're falling behind. I would never preach that a church should throw biblical teaching to the wind for the sake of not offending, nor would I defend a friend, belittle former employers, cut other pastors, or do anything that may damage ministry being done somewhere that I am not. There is a difference in holding someone accountable for wrong doings, and calling someone out because their way of doing ministry does not match up to yours or your opinion of how things should be done.
I am so happy to be a part of this team at Springcreek. Sure we have disagreements or whatever, but at the end of the day we're honestly searching for what God wants done in the life of his people in our little corner of ministry. Work where God has placed you to reach the people he has put you in contact with, and be thankful that there are others reaching those you cannot.............
I'm out...
This morning I was reading through some blogs that I occasionally follow and I came across one that just really has a tendency to irk me sometimes. The self-professed "church planter" blogger continually whines about "hypocrisy in church leadership," sermons and series being preached at other churches, dismissal of staff members at other churches, etc......Comparing the ministry of his church and others he has emulated to what he deems to be failing, or not doing things the "right way."
Most of the time the opinions stated on this blog come across as the bitter, whinings of a small individual with an extreme case of tunnel vision and "me"itis.
I have a tendency sometimes.....okay a lot.....to open my mouth for no other reason but to switch feet, but I do try to have facts to substantiate what I am saying. Most of the time I try to keep the writings on this blog light, funny, somewhat encouraging, sometimes reflective...but I try to not run down the ministry someone else is doing.
Different churches approach things in different ways for many different reasons. Staff members change for many reasons. Philosophies are adjusted and teams work together for the good of the church. I'm not seminary educated (some would say I should be thankful for that), but I think there are some things that I can see without that clouding my vision.
I am a church plant. I was planted here to do what God called me to do in the ways that he provides and directs. As churches grow, changes of many kinds occur. But I believe that if you're not changing, you're falling behind. I would never preach that a church should throw biblical teaching to the wind for the sake of not offending, nor would I defend a friend, belittle former employers, cut other pastors, or do anything that may damage ministry being done somewhere that I am not. There is a difference in holding someone accountable for wrong doings, and calling someone out because their way of doing ministry does not match up to yours or your opinion of how things should be done.
I am so happy to be a part of this team at Springcreek. Sure we have disagreements or whatever, but at the end of the day we're honestly searching for what God wants done in the life of his people in our little corner of ministry. Work where God has placed you to reach the people he has put you in contact with, and be thankful that there are others reaching those you cannot.............
I'm out...
Thursday, September 28, 2006
New Things....
New restaurant.......J's Catfish....cajun catfish and huge shrimp. done right! plus the hushpuppies and fries. Yes!
Also.....Firewheel Mall added a dine-in Sonic complete with HDTV big screen with Sportcenter. On top of that...it's right next door to the Nestle's Toll-House place. WHAT?!! I hate malls, but this one is on it's way up. I may even go out there at Christmas.................maybe
New cd review......Chris Tomlin's "See The Morning." It's great! I've been a fan of Tomlin's for a long time. The songs are hooky, with simple, but great melodies. I just feel good after I listen to his stuff. This one is definitely worth the money. Get it.
New T.V. season......The Office is sheer GREATNESS! Hilarious. Grey's Anatomy....more greatness.
I love football..........just thought I'd throw that in. The Eagles, and yes I left out "cryin'" on purpose, had the best two practices we've had all year. I'm feeling real good about this weekend, and I can't even be there. High school game tomorrow night, college gameday saturday morning, and the Cowboys v. Titans Sunday.......how 'bout them Cowboys?!! T.O. is not even worth mentioning.
I'm out......
Also.....Firewheel Mall added a dine-in Sonic complete with HDTV big screen with Sportcenter. On top of that...it's right next door to the Nestle's Toll-House place. WHAT?!! I hate malls, but this one is on it's way up. I may even go out there at Christmas.................maybe
New cd review......Chris Tomlin's "See The Morning." It's great! I've been a fan of Tomlin's for a long time. The songs are hooky, with simple, but great melodies. I just feel good after I listen to his stuff. This one is definitely worth the money. Get it.
New T.V. season......The Office is sheer GREATNESS! Hilarious. Grey's Anatomy....more greatness.
I love football..........just thought I'd throw that in. The Eagles, and yes I left out "cryin'" on purpose, had the best two practices we've had all year. I'm feeling real good about this weekend, and I can't even be there. High school game tomorrow night, college gameday saturday morning, and the Cowboys v. Titans Sunday.......how 'bout them Cowboys?!! T.O. is not even worth mentioning.
I'm out......
Monday, September 25, 2006
A step ahead...
I love this weather. It's just great outside.
The Cryin' Eagles are now 0-4. It's been a tough season so far, but the boys are learning and getting better. I'm not gonna lie though.....it's tough to take a beating every week. I just keep telling myself.....they're 9. It's fun though.....they crack me up.
The ID series is off to a great start. We're working through the connection group material with our students and it started off great last night. There are a lot of things about identity that teenagers deal with, but one of the things that surprises me is the fact that many of them are oblivious to the other students around them. As we looked at the times we have simply tried to "survive," the times we were "striving," and the times we "thrived," many of our students obviously didn't have a lot to draw from over their brief 15 or so years. However, what surprised me was how many of them couldn't recognize the kids around them that are surviving and striving every day just to make it.
Much of Christ's ministry was spent reaching out to those who were striving to live, and/or just trying to survive. He came to "give life to it's fullest." Look for those around you that don't know what that looks like or how to get it. You only have to be one step ahead of someone to lead them..............look for those who are one step behind you. I'm out.....
The Cryin' Eagles are now 0-4. It's been a tough season so far, but the boys are learning and getting better. I'm not gonna lie though.....it's tough to take a beating every week. I just keep telling myself.....they're 9. It's fun though.....they crack me up.
The ID series is off to a great start. We're working through the connection group material with our students and it started off great last night. There are a lot of things about identity that teenagers deal with, but one of the things that surprises me is the fact that many of them are oblivious to the other students around them. As we looked at the times we have simply tried to "survive," the times we were "striving," and the times we "thrived," many of our students obviously didn't have a lot to draw from over their brief 15 or so years. However, what surprised me was how many of them couldn't recognize the kids around them that are surviving and striving every day just to make it.
Much of Christ's ministry was spent reaching out to those who were striving to live, and/or just trying to survive. He came to "give life to it's fullest." Look for those around you that don't know what that looks like or how to get it. You only have to be one step ahead of someone to lead them..............look for those who are one step behind you. I'm out.....
Thursday, September 14, 2006
"What Car Does He Drive?"
Every once in a while I find myself eating lunch by myself at some fast food place. Tuesday was one of those days. I was at Wendy's......
When I'm by myself at one of these places, I play a little game while I eat my lunch. I like to call it "What Car Does He/She Drive?" Make sure you sit by a window to play. The rules are simple:
1. When someone gets up to leave, you must guess which car they are in before they walk out
of the door.
2. The contestants must already be in the restaurant before you get there. You cannot use
people that pull up while you're sitting there.
I had a great game Tuesday. I batted .700! Yes 7 out of 10 I guessed correctly. .300 is about average, but .700 is unheard of in this growing sport. I had some guesses that were just unbelievable. There was the couple that came in separate cars and I got both of them. There was the young lady that drove a truck. They are sometimes easy to spot, but can fool you if you're not careful. And there was the teenager driving his mom's mini-van. Got that one too.
The three I missed were tough.
1. an older lady (60's).........driving a bug
2. a painter that was not in the work truck that was parked outside of my window, but in a
Kia Sportage
3. and the toughest one of all was the guy I thought was a pastor (had a bible reference book
and his bible with him at the table). I matched him with the rather large car next to my
truck that had the "My boss is a Jewish carpenter" bumper sticker and the "I'm watching
you......GOD" sticker on the other side. He was in the work truck........and another teenager
was in the big car.
Crazy.....but those things happen when you're playing "What Car Does He/She Drive?" Try it out......
I'm going to lunch.......I'm playing doubles today. I'm out....
When I'm by myself at one of these places, I play a little game while I eat my lunch. I like to call it "What Car Does He/She Drive?" Make sure you sit by a window to play. The rules are simple:
1. When someone gets up to leave, you must guess which car they are in before they walk out
of the door.
2. The contestants must already be in the restaurant before you get there. You cannot use
people that pull up while you're sitting there.
I had a great game Tuesday. I batted .700! Yes 7 out of 10 I guessed correctly. .300 is about average, but .700 is unheard of in this growing sport. I had some guesses that were just unbelievable. There was the couple that came in separate cars and I got both of them. There was the young lady that drove a truck. They are sometimes easy to spot, but can fool you if you're not careful. And there was the teenager driving his mom's mini-van. Got that one too.
The three I missed were tough.
1. an older lady (60's).........driving a bug
2. a painter that was not in the work truck that was parked outside of my window, but in a
Kia Sportage
3. and the toughest one of all was the guy I thought was a pastor (had a bible reference book
and his bible with him at the table). I matched him with the rather large car next to my
truck that had the "My boss is a Jewish carpenter" bumper sticker and the "I'm watching
you......GOD" sticker on the other side. He was in the work truck........and another teenager
was in the big car.
Crazy.....but those things happen when you're playing "What Car Does He/She Drive?" Try it out......
I'm going to lunch.......I'm playing doubles today. I'm out....
Monday, September 11, 2006
'86 Kicks......
The class of 1986 20-year reunion......yes, 20 years since high school graduation. The finest group of graduates that Ross S. Sterling High School of Baytown, TX has ever seen are creeping up on 40 years old and we got together last weekend to celebrate oldness.
It was fun. I had not seen most of those people at all over the last 20 years, and it was fun seeing the changes people had gone through........good and bad. Our name tags had our senior picture on it so we would recognize those that had changed the most. There are several that I live within 20 minutes of right now and did not even know it. I'm looking forward to the 25th.
I am so excited about our student ministry. We are seeing new kids every week. Our students are reaching out to their friends and God is proving his faithfulness as they learn to serve and minister to those they come in contact with daily. AWESOME!
Garland Pee-Wee Eagle update:
This week we snatched defeat out of the jaws of victory and lost 6-0 to the Owlets. We looked so much better than last week though........there is hope. If I can just get some of them to stop crying.
I am so pumped about football season. I love high school football and while I was at my reunion I went to a game at Baytown's Stallworth Stadium (The House that Doug built). I had not been in that stadium since I graduated, so that was kind of cool. College ball on Saturdays and all kinds of pro action Sunday.
Of course the Cowboys broke my heart as they too snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. But it is a long season. Tonight may be one of the greatest nights in recent memory..........2 Monday Night Football games. Hold on..........I had to wipe the tears out of my eyes so I could finish this.
Here's a few pics of the 4th Grade Eagles in action.....kind of.....
It was fun. I had not seen most of those people at all over the last 20 years, and it was fun seeing the changes people had gone through........good and bad. Our name tags had our senior picture on it so we would recognize those that had changed the most. There are several that I live within 20 minutes of right now and did not even know it. I'm looking forward to the 25th.
I am so excited about our student ministry. We are seeing new kids every week. Our students are reaching out to their friends and God is proving his faithfulness as they learn to serve and minister to those they come in contact with daily. AWESOME!
Garland Pee-Wee Eagle update:
This week we snatched defeat out of the jaws of victory and lost 6-0 to the Owlets. We looked so much better than last week though........there is hope. If I can just get some of them to stop crying.
I am so pumped about football season. I love high school football and while I was at my reunion I went to a game at Baytown's Stallworth Stadium (The House that Doug built). I had not been in that stadium since I graduated, so that was kind of cool. College ball on Saturdays and all kinds of pro action Sunday.
Of course the Cowboys broke my heart as they too snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. But it is a long season. Tonight may be one of the greatest nights in recent memory..........2 Monday Night Football games. Hold on..........I had to wipe the tears out of my eyes so I could finish this.
Here's a few pics of the 4th Grade Eagles in action.....kind of.....
Sunday, September 03, 2006
movin' and groovin'...
so much in so little time. it is crazy around this house. kelly and i said hi to each other yesterday as we passed each other in the hallway. she's doin' good she said.
ashli is busy with drill team.....brooke with cheerleading....and beaux and i with pee wee football.
yes...the pee wee Garland Eagles got off to a rough start saturday afternoon. we got on the wrong end of a 21-0 battle. two punt returns for touchdowns and we were done. we had a good time though...........i hate to lose.
tomorrow morning is the big garland labor day parade. labor day and we have to be in downtown garland at 7:30 a.m. WHAT?
man.......bob did a great job with a tough topic today. the second installment of our "dirty little secrets" series was on abortion and bob did a great job with it. great biblical perspective on dealing with the pain and shame of abortion.
so this coming weekend is my 20th high school reunion. wow....i'm looking foward to seeing some old friends and catching up over some dinner and Lionel Richie songs.
i'm tired and going to bed...........i've got to make a couple of posts this week to make up for the two week hiatus. i'm out.......
ashli is busy with drill team.....brooke with cheerleading....and beaux and i with pee wee football.
yes...the pee wee Garland Eagles got off to a rough start saturday afternoon. we got on the wrong end of a 21-0 battle. two punt returns for touchdowns and we were done. we had a good time though...........i hate to lose.
tomorrow morning is the big garland labor day parade. labor day and we have to be in downtown garland at 7:30 a.m. WHAT?
man.......bob did a great job with a tough topic today. the second installment of our "dirty little secrets" series was on abortion and bob did a great job with it. great biblical perspective on dealing with the pain and shame of abortion.
so this coming weekend is my 20th high school reunion. wow....i'm looking foward to seeing some old friends and catching up over some dinner and Lionel Richie songs.
i'm tired and going to bed...........i've got to make a couple of posts this week to make up for the two week hiatus. i'm out.......
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