coolchurch worship

Italy Mission Team Forming

It's so exciting to be a part of something brand new. Abundant Life Church is forming its first mission team to Italy. Check out www.coolchurchitaly.com and don't forget to leave a comment. Our first informational meeting was held Sunday the 15th and we got the opportunity to hear from Brian Heerwagen from DELTA Ministries, who has been taking teams to Naples, Italy for several years now. Your next opportunity to hear more about this exciting mission will be Sunday, March 8 at 7:00 P.M. at Abundant Life Church in the Community Room. This will be a very special evening for Abundant Life Church as we will have guests from Italy joining us for dessert as they share about the ministry opportunities in Italy. For those who need directions to Abundant Life Church go to www.coolchurch.com. RSVP to dennis@coolchurch.com.

Festival Casoria
Location: Naples, Italy
Date: Sep 2-16, 2009

Worst Album Covers

Well it's time for another round of “worst album covers.” To vote for the worst album cover simply make your selection and click on comment and place your vote. Feel free to leave a few thoughts about your selection. Enjoy!

First is the famous Cooper Family.

I'm a sucker for bands with an accordion and a saxophone. 

 

A flat top and a vibrant voice!

 

They definitely had that creepy cultish look.

 

I think this happened when he was cast out of heaven.

 

Guide me Lord to a new hair salon.

 

His first album after breaking up with the Crusaders.

 

The "rat pack" of Christian music.

 

Known for their wild antics and casual style.

   

Truely a miracle.

 

This album makes me want to lift my hands and spread'em.

Time for A New Year's Attempt

It’s the end of 2008 and it’s time for making New Year’s resolutions. I don’t know why I like the idea of New Year’s resolutions. Although I’m not very good at following through with every resolution I make, I still like the idea of a chance to start over again. Some might say, “Why try if you didn’t follow through last time.” I say, why not?  The beginning of a new year is a wonderful opportunity to take a look at my life and ask some important questions. “What have I been putting off that I know I should be doing?” “What have I been postponing for just the right time?” “What have I been procrastinating that I should just start doing?”

 

Even if you’ve failed to follow through in the past, the beginning of a new year is a great opportunity to stop, evaluate, dream, make plans and take steps in a direction that you know is right. Go ahead and give it a try. I know when people hear the words New Year’s Resolution it sounds like a declaration of radical change. If a New Year’s resolution sounds a little overwhelming, call it - a new year’s attempt. Remember your failure to follow through with past commitments is no excuse not to try again, especially if the changes could really make a difference in your life or in the lives of others. Proverbs 24:16 says, “A righteous man may fall seven times, but he gets back up again.” It’s time to get back up and try again.

The Power of a Story

I recently returned from a staff retreat. Our assignment was simple. We were to tell our life story up to that point. That’s it. There was no book to read, no DVD to listen to, no leadership principles discussed. It was the easiest and yet the most difficult retreat I had ever had to prepare for.

 

You see, my life is more than a consecutive series of dots on a timeline. It is a confusing jumbled combination of 50 years of experiences that have shaped, contributed, and influenced who I am today.  There may be a part of me that has always been and not simply a product of my environment or my upbringing; but I am neither intelligent nor eloquent enough to even begin to separate the two. I am a person that is fascinatingly unique, while at the same time, very, very common. I share along with all of you both the wonder and the revulsion of being fully human.

 

When telling someone your own personal history, you have the ability to recreate the events of the past to fit the audience you’re speaking to and, of course, put yourselves in the best light possible. Even if we don’t distort our history, we give ourselves the liberty to edit certain events of the past like deleted portions of a film that never make it to the theater.

 

When I am both author and editor of the story and I am the main character, I get to choose the image I want to present. That’s the beauty of editing. I get to tell the story that I want told. Now, in some cases, that’s not a bad thing - it just is. In many situations it’s just plain smart. Like the famous line from the movie A Few Good Men, many people can’t handle the truth.

 

In asking a recent worship team class if they had the challenge of writing their own personal life experiences, what version would you give. Would it be the “G” rated version, the “PG”, PG13, R or even NC17 version? I followed it up with another question. How would you determine what parts of your story you would omit and for what reasons? They came up with several conclusions. 1. What is the reason for telling the story? 2. Is it the right time and place? 3. And, most importantly, who is the audience?

 

How about you? Have you ever told the unedited version of your story to anyone; even the parts you would rather omit?

 

The take away from this retreat was nothing short of amazing. I will never forget it. We were all changed. It’s difficult to say who was affected more, the person telling their story or the audience who was privileged to hear it. Both experienced something that I cannot adequately begin to explain. It was a retreat I will never forget.

 

Worst Album Covers

I saw I similar list on another blog, so I thought I would
post some of my favorite "worst record album covers,"
and have you vote for the #1 Worst Album Cover.

What can I say? They had me at "Country Church."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just...Joyce. Similar to Prince or Madonna, but with an eerie Dustin Hoffman resemblance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Reverend In Rhythm. Nothing more needs to be said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

God's Power! This was before he started The Power Team... and rest is history.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm not sure which I like better; the guys name or the title of the album.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This one went platinum simply because of the title.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm not sure which one is Al, but I think he's the one with the sideburns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They later changed their name to the Simpson's. I think you'll recognize Jessica & Ashlee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Well, there you have it, my top picks for Worst Album Cover.
To vote for #1 Worst Album Cover simply click on comment and
place your vote and leave a few words as to what moved you to
vote for this album cover. Enjoy.

Japan

I recently returned from a trip to Japan. What an experience! OK, try to wrap your mind around this. I sent an email home at 10:00 A.M., April 8th to let people know that we would be departing Japan at 3:00 P.M. later that same day and would be arriving in PDX at 7:45 A.M. on… April 8th. Time travel !?! Although I’m a tourist whenever I’m in Europe, while in Japan I truly felt like a foreigner. The culture, the language and food (among many other things) were almost always a mystery as well as quite an adventure. Even my best pantomime skills couldn’t communicate much needed “baby diapers” at a convenience store. (I’m sure many of you would have liked to have been there to see that one.) There are probably still some employees laughing about the American who repeatedly pretended to be putting something on, crying like a baby and pointing at his bottom. Just doing my part to improve the American tourist reputation around the world. One of the experiences that intrigued me the most was visiting shrines. When entering a Shinto shrine, you usually see an area for water purification, where the hands and lips are cleansed. After cleansing, people would enter the main area of the shrine, coins are tossed in an offertory, hands are clapped together (or bells were rang) to summon the spirits and then prayers (or wishes) are made. Japan has embraced Shintoist and Buddhism. Although Shinto is native to Japan, Buddhism (originally from India) was introduced to Japan via China and Korea during the 6th century. Shintoism and Buddhism have co-existed for centuries in Japan and have even complemented each other to a certain degree. Although religion does not play a big role in the everyday life for most Japanese people today, most would consider themselves Buddhist, Shintoist or both. Most Japanese will have a Shinto wedding and a Buddhist funeral with many visits to various shrines thrown in for good luck. I have posted several pictures of this in a photo album entitled Japan in the left margin. Enjoy.

My Resignation

I thought that might get your attention. I have been working a lot on my resignation. Before you run and call somebody, keep reading. The word resignation is usually used in conjunction with employment, or for the impulsive, can mean unemployment. The word resignation actually has a broader meaning than just giving formal notification of quitting a job. It actually means compliance, submission and acceptance.

So much of the difficult and painful emotions I have experience are somehow tied to unmet expectations. I have expectations of myself and I have expectations of others. I don’t think having expectations is such a bad thing. The problem I’m beginning to discover is that I live with so many expectations of people, circumstances and situations of my life that are - unrealistic. The harsh reality is that so many of my life experiences rarely meet my expectations. It’s a perfect setup for a major letdown.

I expect that all things should go smooth. All new products should work. Traffic should move. I expect all people to be nice. I expect to be liked, listened to, and loved. I expect to be respected, revered, and at times, even coddled. People should anticipate my every need and above all, should never disappoint me.

I have no idea where all these unrealistic expectations come from? It seems that so much of my anger, frustration, and disappointments are somehow tied to unmet, unrealistic expectations.

What would life be like if we started each day by resigning?

I resign myself to the changes I don’t see coming. I resign myself to submitting to God’s agenda for my day. I resign myself to accepting the unforeseen and the unexpected. I resign myself that some things are going to go well today and others are not. I resign myself that others (including myself) are flawed, imperfect people and will, at times, disappoint me.

I am beginning to see that the pathway to peace is through resignation. Rather than holding my world hostage while shaking a list of demands in its face, I am trying something new; releasing my grip and resigning to the fact that this world (and the people in it) are imperfect and will never fully meet my every need – real or unrealistic. Accepting that things should go reasonably well today - but may not - allows margin for real life to unfold.

Shoulders are the Pits

I have discovered that shoulders are not just near the pits – they are the pits. I had no idea before going in for surgery how difficult it was going to be to find a comfortable position just to sleep. I have never been more aware of my shoulders. At times I wish I could just take my right arm off before going to bed. Or better yet, design a bed that has a hole large enough to insert my entire arm just so I could enjoy sleeping on my side.

My surgeon told me it would be six weeks in a sling and six weeks of physical therapy. I thought, OK, that’s a little exaggerated; especially since I can be out of my sling for quite a while before my arm starts to ache. But I’ve discovered that after the initial surgery pain, the acheness is only a part of the battle.  I have come to understand that arms get much more credit than do the shoulders they are attached to. Without a fully functioning right shoulder life can be a little weird.

I can carry a shopping bag full of clothing with my right arm but I have to use my left arm to push the elevator button. I can push a shopping cart for hours - as long as I only make right turns. (Left turns are a killer.) I can turn on the ignition and drive a car but I have to have a passenger to adjust the heat or turn on the stereo. I can make a pot of coffee but I can’t pore myself a cup. I can pop the cork off a champagne bottle (figuratively, of course) but I can’t twist the tiny little wire that holds the cork in place. I can carry a Duraflame log in from the garage with my right arm, but I have to light the fire with my left.

Now, you have to realize, I haven’t started physical therapy yet, so the tone of my blog entries may start to resemble the book of Lamentations or Job. The source of much of my frustration these days has been a prolonged sinus infection, of which I will spare you the details. For now, I promise to try to keep the whining to a minimum. I continue to gain great comfort from one of my favorite passages, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shoulder of death, I will fear no physical therapy; for thou art with me. Your sling and your Advil they do comfort me.” Or something like that.

Dennis's Shoulder Saga

Forgive me in advance for this post is a little wordy. My intent is to answer many of the frequently asked questions I am getting concerning my shoulder surgery last Monday.  I should probably let you know that this blog entry is being written by my wife while I dictate, as I am still unable to use a keyboard.

I think the original injury to my shoulder happened about 5 years ago while playing water volleyball in Puerto Vallarta. During the flight home my shoulder was really hurting me. Through the years with weight training and the like I have continued to tear my rotator cuff. Injuring this tendon is quite common. It eventually got so bad that I made an appointment to see a shoulder specialist. An MRI showed that I had a tear about the size of a dime and if left untreated would continue to tear away from the bone completely. Dr Ragsdale said he would recommend surgery to repair my rotator cuff and to reconnect my bicep. Because I knew my December schedule was going to be insane, I postponed the surgery until after the first of the year.

The weeks leading up to surgery I was also dealing with an abscessed molar. The Sunday before my surgery I was experiencing incredible pain and concerned that I was developing a sinus infection in addition to my bad tooth. The night previous to the surgery I slept very little because of my tooth pain. Early in the morning I called the emergency number for the Endodontist. I went in to see him at 7:30am, and after evaluating the tooth he was sure it was fractured and recommended that it be extracted. After the extraction I went to the hospital to be admitted for my shoulder surgery.

We arrived at the hospital at noon and didn’t go into surgery until 4:30. I had a difficult time while in the recovery room because my oxygen levels wouldn’t stay in a normal range. Although they shouldn’t have, I was discharged about 11:00 pm. After sleeping about four hours I woke up with shortness of breath and could not even take my asthma medicine. Dr Ragsdale sent me to the hospital where I stayed for the next 30 hours. While in the ER, they discovered that the block I had been given to completely numb my shoulder had also affected my diaphragm.

I had one lung (not the restaurant) but literally only had use of one lung as the other lung was compressed due to the block. The block wearing off is both a good and bad thing. The more it wears off the better my lungs work but without the block I feel the full pain of my surgery of which I have to tell you is one of the most painful things I have ever experienced.

Well that brings you up to date, at this point I am on pretty heavy medication every four hours and am having a difficult time finding a comfortable place to sleep. My family has been amazing for their care and patience with me. My wife especially can really empathize with me as she has had shoulder surgery twice, one on each side. I have no idea how long the recovery time will take; I will most likely be in a sling for six weeks and have physical therapy for six weeks.

Well, if you are still reading this mini-novel, thank you.  Feel free to drop me an e-mail.  My wife will be the person reading and writing my emails as I dictate

Thanks again for your continued prayers.  I hope to see you all soon.

Saturday/Sunday Service Schedule Change in February

Starting the weekend of February 16th & 17th we will switch to two Saturday services at 4:30 & 6:00 P.M. and three Sunday services at 8:30, 10 and 11:30 A.M. (There will be no Sunday evening service.)

What this means for Worship Team members: On a weekend that you are scheduled to serve in the LIVE venue, your commitment would be a Thursday evening rehearsal at 7:00 P.M., a 4:00 P.M. sound check on Saturday, two services Saturday evening and three on Sunday morning. Since the first Saturday evening service begins at 4:30 P.M. our sound check will only be 15 minutes. After the third Sunday A.M. service you would have the rest of the day off. (If you are scheduled to serve in the TRADITIONS venue you will have a Thursday evening rehearsal at 8:00 P.M. and the TRADITIONS service time remains the same as it is now - Sunday 8:30 A.M. in the Community Room.)

The main reason for a change to Saturday/Sunday service schedule is to allow us to film a Saturday evening service and have the time needed to prepare and transport the message to our other campuses, the first of which being Parkrose. All of this, ultimately, will help us to fulfill our purpose of reaching as many people as possible for Jesus Christ. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.

2007 Christmas Musical "Wondrous Gift"

This photo was taken by Paul Foster during one of our 6 performances.
You can watch the musical here. Watch "Wondrous Gift"

My Messy Christmas Story

Many years ago while admiring the size and beauty of the Quick Family Christmas tree; I noticed a very large present wedged behind the tree that wasn’t there the night before. Upon further inspection I discovered that this giant gift was for… me! My curiosity kicked into high gear. What heavy gift could possibly come in a box 2 X 2 X 4? Then it hit me. My wife had bought me a keyboard! I couldn’t contain my excitement. I was elated with the thought that my wife actually bought me a synthesizer. My head was swimming with excitement at the thought of such an extravagant (and perfect) gift. I had visions of spending countless hours playing music on my brand new keyboard. On Christmas Eve, I intentionally saved the best present for last. With nervous expectation I dragged the heavy box out from behind the tree. With everyone in the room watching, I paused and whispered a heart felt thank you to my wife and proceeded to unveil the best Christmas gift ever. I pulled a large section of the wrapping paper off and my mind was having a difficult time remembering the brand name or the unfamiliar logo of the musical instrument. I think I read the word Craftsman on the box. While my mind was still racing to catch up I continued to pull the remaining paper from the… garage door opener? The reality of the moment hit me like a sudden hammer to my cranium. I didn’t have the time (or the brains) to conceal my disappointment. My shock and sudden let-down was so obvious to everyone that I didn’t have a chance to recover. The only thing I could do was stare at the box in a trance-like state and say…”oh… a garage door opener.” My wife left the room crying. Needless to say, the recovery of that Christmas took several years of apologies and marriage counseling. After the return of the gift to Sears, the Quick family was sentenced to opening and closing their garage doors manually for the next ten years. With each slam of our large doors, I was reminded of the Christmas gift that closed a chapter of my childlike wonder of the holiday.

To read other peoples Messy Christmas stories go to
www.messychristmas.com

Prima che muoia

What do you want to experience before you die? Ever since our less than thrilling intimate rendezvous on an Oregon beach my wife has set her sights on less sandy goals. She wants to visit every state in the U.S. and she has informed me that a lay-over in an airport doesn’t count. You see, I’ve already experienced the joys of being terrified in Oklahoma while waiting for a tornado to touch down, repulsed in Kentucky by insects the size of small aircraft and nearly suffocated in Florida by oppressive humidity. An airport lay-over doesn’t sound too bad to me. A destination she is particularly excited about is the east coast. If I had my way I would skip over the east coast and keep going to a real destination. You see, I have a bit of an obsession. John Grisham wrote, “I love Italy and all things Italian.” Now there’s a man after my own heart. Even though my wife and I travel to Europe about once a year I never tire of Italy. Here are a few of my life dreams. I want to learn to speak Italian fluently. I want to live in Italy for a season of my life. I want to write at least one book… preferably… in Italy. Do you see a theme? The wine, pizza and pasta don’t even need to be mentioned. Now, before I commence my own passionate rendition of “O Sole Mio,” I want to give you a chance to think about your dreams. What would you like to do before you go home to be with the Lord? You know – heaven - where gondolas float effortlessly through the clouds and angels play mandolins while singing “Loda Dio, Anima Mia.” (Praise the Lord, Give Thanks to the Lord.) How about you? By the way, see if you can translate the title of this post?

Vocal Chords

I didn’t know that Mark Stuart of Audio Adrenaline has been having vocal chord problems. I received an email today that announced he is was one of the guests at Randy Elrod’s Re:create Conference. One of the things he is going to talk about is his vocal chord challenges and what that means for his future ministry. I got to meet Mark several years ago. We got to go to dinner, hang out and just talk music. Long before I was having reoccurring vocal chord issues, I remember asking him that night how it was possible to be on tour, sing every night and still have a voice. He told me he didn’t know why he has never had problems with his vocal chords and relayed that Dan Haseltine, the lead singer of Jars of Clay, (which Audio Adrenaline toured with a lot) continued to have vocal chord problems and in fact had to cancel several concerts because of his voice. I remember Mark telling me (speaking of his own voice) that the more he sings - the stronger his voice gets.

On January, 2006, Audio Adrenaline announced that they were retiring from active music ministry. The band cited Mark Stuart's "ongoing vocal challenges" stemming from vocal chord damage after years of performing as the primary factor. On July 27, 2006, the band played at the popular Christian music festival Creation West for the last time. Their last album was a live recording from Hawaii entitled “Farwell.”

Some may say - Audio Adrenaline – they’re so yesterday. But, for all who have a limited musical pallet or your coolness gauge is permanently stuck on narrow, you have to respect that they have been one of the most successful and longest running bands in Christian music. Audio Adrenaline has made tremendous impact in the lives of their loyal listeners," says Peter York, EMI CMG Label Group president. "They have also been a strong influence and positive role model for many of today's emerging bands.” Since 1991, Audio Adrenaline has taken a full throttled blast of musical passion, melded it with a compassionate desire to impact the world at large and added members' rock-solid grounding in reality with their vulnerable, no holds barred songwriting. Thanks to earnest performances and undying appreciation for its fans, the group has sold over three million records and racked up 18 No. 1 singles. The band's Bloom recording was certified Gold by the RIAA in 1999 and they were awarded the prestigious "Song of the Decade" crowning in the 90s for "Big House" by CCM Magazine. With a prestigious GRAMMY Award for its 2004 recording, Worldwide, and four Dove Awards, Audio Adrenaline has consistently proved its relevance, artistry and heart.

I hope my schedule permits for me to attend this years Re:create Conference. Among other speakers, It would be cool to hear what Mark has to say. I secretly believe that Randy Elrod chose this topic because of a conversation we had this last summer about my personal challenges with my vocal chords. Thanks Randy, even if you want others to think you already had him booked before we spoke - it will be our little secret.

Audio Adrenaline video -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_i2xsRiXDU&mode=related&search=

Recreate Conference –

http://www.seekersolutions.typepad.com/recreate/

Baby Pictures

Yes, there are pictures of Elijah. I will give you a link to Eric and Melea's blog rather than posting them here. Try not to be jealous.

  http://ericandmelea.blogspot.com/

Eli is Here!

Well it happened! My daughter Melea and her husband Eric had their first child.

8 lbs 6 oz Baby Boy

21 inches long

August 6th at 10:20 P.M. Central Time

Elijah (Eli) Tariq Bauer

Mother and baby are doing well.

The Good, the Bad & The Baby

Blogs – what an interesting thing. Do you know where the word blog comes from? It comes from the two words web log. Kind of like the Captains log from Star Trek, which really could have been called - a clog, when you think about it. You know the one… "Captains log. Stardate 08032007. Starfleet Command has directed the Enterprise to do a preliminary exploration of planet. Scanners report the atmosphere to be breathable, but are receiving confusing readings with regard to life forms. I am beaming down with a landing party composed of all our chief officers except for Mr Spock, who is staying behind to sharpen the points of his ears and have his brows waxed."

The word blog is a portmanteau. (Now there’s something you really wanted to know.) A portmanteau is the fusing of two words together to give a combined meaning. You actually know other portmanteaus - words like spork, animatronics, ginormous, and cyborg. So, in keeping with the spirit of blog lingo, I could actually name today’s blog entry Goodaby... ok, maybe not.

The Good.

While looking back on earlier blog entries this year I was really encouraged. (Check out Discouraged but Not Defeated and Ok, Ok I’ll Blog.) I have been working very hard at getting healthy and living a balanced life. The good news is that I am making progress with my panic/anxiety stuff and (so far) have lost over 30 lbs since March. These are two areas of my life that have really needed some attention. My mental health and my physical health. I have a ways to go, but the good news is that I am making progress in areas of my life that have been suffering from lack of attention. For those of you who really like to know the secret to success when it comes to weight loss, well, don’t tell anyone but it’s… exercise and eating healthy. I know you would rather have heard it was a program, a system, a diet or a pill – but alas it is the ancient and mysterious art of discipline. As for my anxiety stuff, relief has come from doing the work that it takes to conquering irrational fears through acceptance and not resistance. Reading and applying the things I am learning have helped me to take baby steps toward peace. A phrase I like to use is "feel the fear and do it anyway." If anyone would like more specific details about what I am doing just drop me an email. Your "You Too Can Be a Winner Like Me" program will be shipped within 7 to 10 days - all at a low, low price of just 3 easy payments 39.95 a month. Operators are standing by.

The Bad.

One of the more public roles of ministry for me at Abundant Life is the leading of our worship services on Sunday. Last week I got my vocal chords scoped and the results were less than exciting. Although there were no nodules, my vocal chords were inflamed and discolored. Years of multiple services and poor vocal technique is finally catching up with me. The Dr. said that if I continue down this path I am looking at developing nodules and possible surgery. I am on two weeks of vocal rest (no singing), a course of Prednisone and a referral to a vocal coach. So… in a growing church that is open to adding additional services, more venues and alternate locations - I have to take a serious look at what my role will look like in the future. The not-so-bad thing about this is that it does force me to look at mentoring and duplication. Which, if we are serious about growth and reaching as many people as possible for Christ – that has to happen anyway. I will keep you posted.

The Baby.

As I write this my wife is in Clarksville, Tennessee - near Nashville. She is with our daughter Melea and her husband Eric as they wait for the arrival of their first child... and yes... our first grandchild. (Now that is just down right freaky to say out loud.) Grandchild. That makes me a grandfather. My mind still can’t completely embrace the whole concept. Oh well, it will happen whether or not I'm ready for it. It will be very cool. It’s just a little weird being a grandfather at 30.

What are you and God talking about?

Or better yet, what is God telling you? For me, God is talking to me about the concept of surrender - in all aspects of my life. The part I'm wrestling with is how to practice total surrender of my life and yet make plans for the future. In other words, do I make plans and head in a perceived direction, and if I do, am I really living my life surrendered to God's plans or just creating my own future and asking God to bless it? I would love to discover the answer to that one. I thought I would start a conversation. Several of the members of the worship and creative arts team of Abundant Life Church just returned from a worship conference in southern California. I know that each of them have had their flames fanned and came home with ideas, concepts, perspectives and experiences that would be interesting to hear. But beyond those who attended the conference, I know that God is working among our church and more specifically, the worship and creative arts community within Abundant Life. So, feel free to share in the conversation. For that matter, feel free to respond to other peoples comments. God is at work. The topics are wide open. You’re invited to join in the conversation.

The Power and the Beauty of Music

There are times that I move to music. There are times that music moves me. I can’t imagine doing 30 to 45 minutes of cardio without my ipod. I use the music to deliver the tecno dance beat that, like caffeine, provides the cadence I need to keep moving. There are other times that I am completely caught off guard and moved emotionally by music. I can hear a phrase of a song or a cord progression and be immediately transported to places that only reside in my mind or my spirit. You know what a mean. It’s those headphone or earbud sessions that allow your mind to experience emotions and travel to places in your heart. It’s the difference between using music to enhance an environment or experience and losing yourself in the music itself. When the music becomes the experience it’s a powerful thing.

I was recently in Prague with Justin and Jen Powell. He was sharing with me about an experience he had while attending a U2 concert. With vivid detail he shared about a moment during the concert when Bono led the entire stadium in the song Amazing Grace, a capella. Justin said he would never forget singing that song with tears running down his face. He said it was one of the most powerful experiences he had ever had. During that same trip to Europe, Karen and I came upon a small concert during an evening walk in Verona, Italy. In the distance I heard the most beautiful music. I had to find out what was going on. We walked across this very large cobblestone Piazza to discover an outdoor concert during intermission. The music I heard playing was so beautiful that I had to ask the audio crew who it was. In broken English he told me it was Dominic Miller and that he was the guitarist for Sting. That was what a recognized. Although I had never heard the music that was being played, it sounded so familiar to me. I had never heard of Dominic Miller.

Upon arriving home I started researching his Cd’s. I sent an email to Brian Bradner about my new discovery. He, in turn, sent me several Utube links of Dominic in concert with a variety of other artists. I wasn’t prepared for the Sting video that was recorded on 9/11. I found myself overwhelmed with emotion. I wrote Brian back and just said… “The power and the beauty of music.”

Experience it yourself. Sting singing Fragil, recorded the night of 9/11 - http://youtube.com/watch?v=AWl45J8XI-E

We Need Each Other

I have been the recipient of much encouragement over the last two weeks. So many of you have gone out of your way to tell me that you have been reading this blog, thanked me for being so transparent and told me that you have been praying for me. I continue to be amazed at the power of transparency and honest disclosure. It releases people who struggle silently to realize they are not alone. Once released, they become encouragers to others. It's a beautiful thing to experience.

Speaking of encouragement, last week we had a couple over for dinner. Before they left they asked if they could pray for me. During that simple time of prayer with gentle hands touching my arms, I was reminded again how much we need each other. They may not know it, but their simple act of kindness left me feeling loved and lifted. Thank you Greg and Shawn.

I give praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in our troubles; so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the same comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Cor. 1:3-4

We were never meant to live as Lone Ranger Christians. Suffering alone only prolongs the misery. Living in community and sharing our challenges with one another is truly the pathway to restoration and healing. Bearing one another's burdens helps to lighten our load. Living in isolation only increases the pain. Isolation tends to only make a bad situation worse. It produces feelings of rejection, abandonment and discouragement. It is very easy to become overwhelmed and live with a feeling of futility.

I read somewhere that the Vietcong used isolation to break POWs during the Vietnam War. They would separate a soldier from the rest of the POWs, requiring him to carry the burdens of captivity alone. They knew that isolation would eventually cause many soldiers to become overwhelmed and give up all hope - resulting in mental and physical deterioration.

As painful as isolation can be from friends and family, feeling cut off from God is extremely devastating. Satan will do everything within his power to make us feel isolated from God. He will amplify our weaknesses and failures, then try to convince us that God is disappointed. Even if we don't feel God has outright deserted us, we begin to think He must be tired, impatient or just plain disgusted with us. We convince ourselves God must be viewing us with the same critical eye we view ourselves. Satan knows if we feel abandoned by God we may simply give up altogether.

Today I am thankful to be a part of such a wonderful church family. I have experienced comfort and encouragement from those who have received it themselves. Your support gives me hope and encourages me to rise above.

After you read this post, please feel free to leave a comment. Many people visit this blog but don’t participate in the conversation. I would love to hear your thoughts on this or any of the other posts on this blog.

OK, OK, I’ll Blog!

So many of you have been asking why I haven’t been blogging. While some have asked in a way that has felt very encouraging, others have felt more like a swift kick in the hind end. Either way, here it goes.

The truth is - Dennis has been in a funk. I told one person, “When I have something positive to say, I’ll start writing again.” I have been experiencing emotions that have really been very perplexing to me. It has been something that has been difficult for me to put into words. I went out to lunch recently with a good friend of mine, who shall remain nameless (his initials are TJ). He was so gracious to let me ramble on and on about my emotions and listen to me describe the fog I’m in right now.  I so appreciate Christian friends who allow me to be human. Pastors need friends who love them but aren’t too impressed with them. It is so healthy for a Pastor to have relationships that you don’t always have to be “on” for them. I know that may seem to be an odd statement. But as a Pastor, you are always on display. Your spirituality, which is deeply personal, is on display and open to critique at all times. On a given Sunday, any person I pass by and fail to smile and greet is potentially disappointed with me, or worse, offended. “I can’t believe he walked right by without so much as saying a word.” Motives are impugned. The rumor mill begins. Truth is, I had to use the bathroom and had 2 minutes before I needed to start the next service. There are so many expectations that the daily grind of being “on” wears you out. I read an article by Roberta Hestenes recently. She articulated so well some of the issues facing people in ministry.

“By occupation, we are expected to speak easily and naturally of spiritual realities. We are called to practice our faith in public. Under the never-ending demands of ministry, our holy calling to worship, love, and serve God can gradually become corroded until our ministry becomes a career like any other profession, except that public religious performance is part of the job requirements.”

“Sometimes the sheer busyness and unrelenting schedule of church life require us to perform public acts of devotion more often than our soul can fully engage. Other times conflict and stress in ministry hollow us out until we feel like empty shells, hiding the reality of our own poverty and need.”

Wow, can I relate to that! Jesus was fully human and fully God. I am not Jesus. I am acutely aware that I am not God. But please - can I at least be human? I am working through some tough things right now and trying to sort out some complicated emotions. Like you, I’m on a journey. My vision right now is a little blurry but I'm sure the fog will clear again. On top of all of this my panic/anxiety stuff has been getting worse rather than better since December. Life is hard – God is good.

Thanks for the encouraging words and the occasional kick in the hind end. I was always taught, “If you don’t have anything nice to say - don’t say anything at all.” Perhaps that was taught by people who are still wondering in their own deserts. I for one would rather put my energies into finding a way out.

Discouraged but Not Defeated

Monday, January 22nd was to be the day. I had made my decision. I put a plan in place and started what was to be a 20 week emphasis on eating healthy, excercise and weight loss.

6:00 A.M. My alarm clock goes off, one cup of coffee followed by my morning devotional. (Max Lucado - Facing Your Giants.) Seems like a pretty good fit. Next it’s a 300 calorie breakfast and I’m off to the club. Yes - the health club. Today I decided I would start out my 20 weeks of focused discipline with working out in the pool. You see, it’s been almost a year since I had a regular workout regiment.

I arrived at the office that morning for a 9 to 5 strategic planning meeting that would take place over the next two days. In the meeting room has a table with all kinds of snacks and goodies, but I made only good choices. It would be only fruit for me until lunch. Lunch was a slam dunk - soup and one healthy taco with lots of vegetables. I was feeling pretty good so far. After I got home my family decided to go out for dinner and a movie. Newport Bay restaurant. I had fish. Hold the potatoes, please, I’ll have double vegetables. Another good choice.

However, during the movie something insidious happened. I begin to get hungry and tired and I start nodding off during the movie (and it wasn’t even a “chick flick”). It was getting so bad I couldn’t keep my eyes open long enough to follow the story line. After dozing off for the third time I realized I had to do something. Although the movie was only half way over, I politely excused myself down the aisle and walked out to the lobby, went directly to the concessions counter and ordered a bag of red licorice and a large bag of Peanut M & M’s… and ate them. All of them! Two large bags of candy after a day of focused discipline.

As I arrived home that evening I felt like a complete failure. I started out the day so motivated, with such great discipline and good intentions and ended up burying my face in a bag of licorice and a large bag of Peanut M&M’s. To be honest, I have no idea how many calories I consumed during that movie. All I know is that I felt like a total failure.

It wasn’t until I was sharing my discouragement with my wife, before going to bed, that she gave me a perspective that I hadn’t even considered after my great fall. I had made good choices all day. Just because I made some poor choices that night didn’t mean I didn’t make progress throughout the day toward my goal.

I must get discouraged pretty easily, because her words were like a hand lifting this poor guy out of a depressing gutter. Why does a set back automatically mean throwing in the towel? Why does it always have to be “all or nothing?” It reminds me of the title of Charles Swindoll’s book, “Three Steps Forward - Two Steps Back.” My wife reminded me that I was still moving forward. I had still made progress - even after two steps back (which in my case were two large bags of candy) I had still made progress. Three steps forward and two steps back is still one step closer to the goal.

I wrote this the day after “the great fall.” Tuesday. 6:00 A.M. The alarm clock goes off again, one cup of coffee followed by my morning devotional. Next will be a 300 calorie breakfast and I’m off to the club. Yes - the health club. Discouraged but not defeated - I keep moving forward.

Taking the Plunge

Last Sunday we allowed for an opportunity for people to respond during our services spontaneously without pre-planning; baptism with little preparation, and for most, no option of a change of clothing. At last count we think 64 people responded. I’ve been doing some thinking about what happened Sunday. Although there were many dynamics at play, one of the things that I have been thinking about is what it meant for someone getting baptized in this way.

There is something very powerful, almost counter-culture, about getting wet and messy in front of others. There is something very freeing about going against the social pressures of always being put-together, in control, neat and tidy. For the participant, being baptized like this had to be a symbol of "letting go" of many things. Witnessing people who were willing to get wet in the very clothes they wore to church (with no change of clothes available) was a great example of surrender, abandon and a release from not only the fear of taking a public step of faith but also a liberation from some of our very own American social constraints.

I can’t think of another social gathering where someone would intentionally choose to get completely wet, realizing it meant staying wet in front of others, in the parking lot, in the car and all the way home.

I think there is something within all of us that feels enslaved to some degree by our appearance. To some, Sunday may have felt a little reckless, foolish, and a little out-of-control. I personally welcome it. It goes against the grain of our American preoccupation with appearance. Hair, clothing and make-up – all become distant secondary concerns to the decision of “taking the plunge.” What an incredible experience to witness! 

I've Been Tagged

Ok, so I've been tagged by George and now I'm supposed to write five things about myself that you may not know - so here it goes.

1. I was born in North Platte, Nebraska
2. I had a pet chicken whose name was Carolyn
3. I once wet my pants while ordering a Big Hunk candy bar at a Dairy Queen. (And ran all the way home with my jacket tied around my waist.)
4. I had a girl friend in grade school that convinced me she was an Indian Princess because she owned a pair of moccasins. (She also had red hair.)
5. I've been hit in the head by a rock, a large metal spoon and a logging chain - all at the hands of my own brothers and sisters. (They still claim each incident was an accident.)

Make sure you check out George's at  www.pastorgeorge.com

"We’ve Never Done it That Way Before."

This statement has been heard by church leadership for years. It’s the ultimate road block that keeps many churches from moving forward and trying something new or different. Whether it’s used by someone who truly fears an outcome or just wants to exert control - it has stopped many church leaders in their tracks. At the time it may sound like a voice of reason but just because “we’ve never done it that way before” doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do it. It’s a warning without merit. “Beware of the forbidden forest.” “Do not go beyond the great mountains.” “No one has ever entered the cave and lived to tell about it.” Sorting out warnings based on cautious wisdom or fear-based control is the real challenge. In the movie The Village, the elders of the community prohibited the villagers to venture into the surrounding woods, as there are "creatures of which we do not speak" living within. Of course, their reasons were to promote isolation from the outside world, thus controlling the village. Don’t get me wrong, there are legitimate warnings and prohibitions that are wise and even Biblical. Many scriptures are warnings designed to aid us in our spiritual journey, not to mention our own personal safety. But I’m so glad that Abundant Life is a church that is not afraid to go places we’ve never been before. If fact, the reason I started writing about this subject is because I have found it humorous how many times I’ve actually used this very statement myself – only in a very different way. It’s usually used in answering a question about some new thing we are working on as a church. I can’t tell you how many times my answer has been, “I don’t know - we’ve never done this before.” It is both freeing and exciting to be a part of a church that isn’t afraid to venture beyond known territory. So many of the things we try at Abundant Life – we’ve never done before. It will be exciting to see what new things are ahead for the Worship Ministries and Creative Arts teams of Abundant Life Church in 2007.

What Do You See?

I honestly don’t know if it’s self protection on my part or if God has blessed me with the ability to think that I’m thinner than I actually am. I have these shocking moments of clarity when I catch my reflection in a mirror or pass by a store window. I am amazed how the image that I see is so different than what I had in my mind. Whether it's a dressing room mirror or a candid photograph - why am I always caught off guard?

I’ve been thinking a lot recently about “personal blindness.” I really do believe that this personal and spiritual sight impairment is so prevalent it could easily be considered an epidemic. I continue to be surprised at how we can see other people’s short-comings and inconsistencies so easily and be completely blind to our own.

I am reminded of the story of King David and Bathsheba. Restless one night, David is pacing the roof of his palace from where he has a view of the homes and gardens in the city below. And there he spies a beautiful woman bathing. She is the wife of one of his generals, Uriah, who is way at war.

David sends for Bathsheba and spends the night with her. When she becomes pregnant, he commands that Uriah be placed on the front lines, where he dies in battle. David then marries Bathsheba.

At this point, the prophet Nathan pays a call on the king. (See 2 Samuel 12.) He says that he has come to inform the king of a great injustice in the land. A rich man with many sheep stole the one beloved sheep of a poor man, and had it slaughtered for a feast.

Furious at what he hears, King David declares, "As God lives, the one who has done this deserves death."

The prophet Nathan responds, "You are that man!"

David is humbled. He says, "I have sinned before God."

It isn’t that self-evaluation is always inaccurate; it just may not be the whole picture. It has been said that if you want to see an accurate picture of yourself ask your spouse or a family member. Many times our own personal self-assessment may not be as accurate as someone who sees us on a regular basis, or better yet, lives under the same roof. Our challenge is to allow others close enough to be a mirror so that we can see ourselves more accurately. This is a little tricky because it takes relationships that are based on humility, honesty and trust. When faced with the perspective reflected from someone we love and trust, we can accurately assess ourselves and make the needed changes that continue to move us ever closer to being more like Christ and more congruent in our beliefs and our behavior.

Common Ground

The American media has been feeding us a steady diet of stories of Christians being hateful, judgmental and intolerant. Sadly, there are plenty of folks out there who are just that. There are a lot of people who claim to be Christians, but do not represent us well. Are they a large group? As long as they get media coverage they could be a small minority of fanatical people haters - but the viewers would never know. All they see is the headline or the camera shot of shouting, picket waving Christians. I also know why they get on TV. It makes for a sensational story.

I have to admit, I get frustrated when I see people who say they speak for us - yet do not characterize the love of Christ. They dishonor Christ by their words and actions and bring dishonor to His church. Even more frustrating, what they represent is now being used by so many people as the reason why they would never become a Christian. “If that’s what a Christian is, I don’t want anything to do with it.” Do you know what I love to do when I hear someone say something like that to me? I agree with them. I agree with their view that there seems to be a lot of people out there who claim to be Christians and do not look much like Jesus. I agree with them that there have been horrible things done throughout history in the name of Christ. I love the look on their face when they discover that we have found common ground.

Finding common ground is a powerful way to begin a dialog and relationship with people who are not Christ-followers. We find common ground in our disdain for hypocrisy, injustice, intolerance and hatred.  I acknowledge and agree with their view that people shouldn’t be that way. That “Christians” shouldn’t be that way. We share common ground in our confusion that such behaviors don’t seem to fit with the life and teachings of Jesus. I love to watch as their preconceived ideas about me begin to shift.

The other area that we share common ground is our messy, mixed up lives. I have discovered that the more I share my own inconsistencies, frustrating habits, and stupid mistakes, the more people can identify with me. We share common ground. Building relationships like this requires humility, openness, honesty and transparency. Our job is to love people. A part of loving people is validating their view of Christianity, sharing your own mistakes and inconsistencies and living out an authentic relationship with God. The more common ground we share, the less people feel an “us vs. them” mentality, walls come down, dialog begins and relationships can be built. People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. I know it sounds a bit cliché, but it’s true.

Honesty

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the biblical concept of “telling the truth in love.” Just tell the truth - it seems like such a no-brainer. Always be honest. Always tell the truth. It sounds so simple it could easily be a topic for a Sunday school class for children. As one of those kids who were raised in the church - I have to be honest about the topic of honesty.

Some of you may remember the chorus from the 1978 song Honesty, by Billy Joel. “Honesty is such a lonely word. Everyone is so untrue. Honesty is hardly ever heard, but mostly what I need from you.” 

On one side, it’s rare to find people who consistently practice the principle of “telling the truth in love.” I agree with Billy Joel - it’s hardly ever heard. I can think of so many conflicts that could have been avoided if people would have actually “spoken the truth in love.” My hunch is that most of us want to avoid conflict. So, instead of being honest – we lie. By not being completely honest we dodge the potential relational conflicts that comes with honesty.

But this is where it starts to get murky. I wrestle with my own inconsistency with the concept of honesty. Is honesty always the best policy? Should there be times where kindness dictates a response that is actually more loving than honesty? We have all known someone that felt it was there God-given right to speak whatever opinion was on his or her mind - all under the noble motive that, “I’m just being honest.”

The Bible has a lot to say about lying. Satan is called “the father of lies.” Two of the six things listed in Proverbs 6 that God hates are, “lying lips” and “a false witness that speaks lies.” Proverbs 22:12 says, “The lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men who are truthful.”

OK, so I think I know how God feels about lying and I think all of us would agree that we believe that honesty is a virtue that we hold in high regard. I'm just not sure we know what it means to be honest. We all expect people to be honest with us... or do we? I know I want a salesman to tell me the truth. I know my wife wants me to tell the truth… or does she?

We have been married almost 30 years and there are some questions that I don’t have to think very hard about before answering. Questions like, “Did you like the dinner I cooked for you? Does this make me look fat? Do you still find me attractive? Am I as thicker around the middle than she is? Do you think she is prettier than me? Wow! Talk about landmines. It is the inexperienced husband or the man short on brain cells that finds out that being “brutally honest” can be brutal to a relationship and very quickly discovered that honesty is much more complex than first thought.

Although the waters of honesty are at times a little murky and difficult to navigate, there are a few principles that are starting to the surface for me.

Principle #1. There is a difference between choosing your words wisely and being kind in your response and intentionally deceiving someone for the purpose of personal gain or to avoid relational pain that many times accompanies honest disclosure. There have been many husbands who do not tell their wives the truth about indiscretions or unfaithfulness under the guise of “I just don’t want to hurt her.” I wonder how many are trying to avoid relational pain or just trying to save their own heinie.

Principle #2. You don’t always have to say what’s on your mind. Just because you have an opinion does not necessarily mean you must share it. Sometimes keeping your mouth shut is the most loving thing to do. Does anyone have the right to be “brutally honest,” especially when it’s just your opinion about a given subject.

Principle #3. That being said, I believe strong relationships are built on honesty. Our relationships depend on truth. Unless others speak truthfully to us and we speak truthfully to others, we will never experience the joy of being known and accepted for who we really are. Any friendship worth cultivating demands honesty. You are blessed if you have relationships with people who will speak the truth in love - even if it hurts.

Principle #4. Aristotle wrote this one, “Honesty is speaking the right truth to the right person at the right time in the right way for the right reason.”

Saint or Sinner?

I was recently asked after a service if a Christian is “still a sinner.” They had heard me say publicly (during a worship service) that “we are all sinners.” It was an interesting question. My curiosity launched me into a study of this subject. Even though the question was really whether or not it is Biblical accurate to call a saved person a sinner - my mind went down a different rabbit trail. How can we know if someone is saved or unsaved? At times they look very much alike. I know that what a person labels themselves is not nearly as important as how they actually live, but this is where the confusion comes in.

I have known unsaved people who are some of the most caring, loving, generous and unselfish people on earth. I have also known some Christians who rarely displayed any of these qualities. It does make you stop and wonder what’s wrong with this picture. During my study of this I read a statement that I have really wrestled with. “Just how much like a Christian can a sinner be?” Then I switched it around. “Just how much like a sinner can a Christian be?” In other words, is it possible to live like a sinner and still be a saint?

The Bible tells us that an unsaved person can be strictly moral in his outward life (Matt. 23:28) outwardly very prayerful (Mk. 12:40) very zealous in religion (Matt. 23:15) and very conscientious in doing what is expected of him (Matt. 23:23). I find this a little unnerving because, if that is so (and I believe the Bible is) none of these outward signs of Christianity are necessarily the signs of a true child of God.

The word Christian actually means “little-Christ” or “Christ-like.” It is interesting that the first time we see this term used to describe Christ-followers was in Acts 11:26

“The disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.”

Antioch is the first location where the label “Christian” was associated with early followers of Christ. What is interesting about this is that they didn’t call themselves Christians – they were called Christians.

There was obviously something about the way these early believers lived that they were called Christ-like. Today, we like to call ourselves Christians. I wonder if those around us would agree. Would they call us Christian even before we let them know that we are?

I purposefully left this post open-ended so that it left room for discussion. I would love to hear what you think.

Culturally Redemptive

There is a lot a talk today about being culturally relevant. Many books and conferences have been created to encourage churches to move forward and become pertinent to the culture in which we live. Which begs the question, “which culture,” which is another subject. For the most part, cultural relevance is a good thing. Especially for churches that have somehow become disconnected from their culture.

Culturally retarded:

Let face it - some churches are culturally retarded. They function disconnected from the society and times in which they live. Either intentionally or by accident they become an island. They exist to perpetuate their own traditions or heritage. They have their own language and their own micro-culture. They have become so inward focused that they have lost touch with the world around them. They have ceased to be able to view themselves through the eyes of the world. They view their traditions and practices as sacred and guard against anything or anyone who would threaten them. Worst of all, they have lost the ability to be salt and light in the world. Sadly, many exist unnoticed.

With the church relevance movement (or “seeker sensitive” movement) I have witnessed many churches making great strides toward breaking free from traditional forms, language and practices that have created barriers between them and their culture. Many are succeeding in introducing changes that have made them more relevant to their culture and have experienced numerical growth as a result.

I believe being culturally relevant is a move in the right direction. But, if becoming “relevant” is the ultimate, over arching goal some churches tend to drift into becoming “seeker-driven.” Seeker-driven churches become nothing more than a Performing Arts Center. It is all about what will attract a crowd. In practice they have lowered the bar so far that “anything that attracts people” becomes the end all and anything that would make an “unchurched” person feel uncomfortable is discarded.

In their minds “a crowd” is the same as “a church.” The worship service becomes nothing more than a themed event with practical “felt needs” driven messages. Don’t get me wrong, being able to be pertinent or applicable to the unchurched community around us is definitely needed. I know this first hand as I was raised in a church that in many ways was - culturally retarded. What I would have given for a little cultural relevance! But, just because you can attract, relate to, resonate with or speak the language of your culture – does not mean you are effecting change in people’s lives - even if you see an increase in church attendance.

Culturally redemptive:

We must push beyond the “seeker-driven” church model to become a culturally redemptive community of Christ followers. Relevance is essential, but only part of the equation. It gives the church the ability to use wisdom, discernment, sensitivity and language. We must know where people are in order to communicate the message of Christ effectively. We should watch social trends and study unbeliever’s lifestyles and be informed about what is going on in the world around us. But knowing where people are does not mean that we leave them there.

Sally Morgenthaler does such an excellent job of communicated this. The following excerpt is from her book, Worship Evengelism.

“In Acts 17:16-34, Paul witnesses to the Athenian philosophers. Now here is a man who is very informed about Greek culture, especially about how the Greeks perceive God. He immediately sees the need to connect with their worldview and to form his apologetic on the basis of their experience. Paul begins, "Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD" (Acts 17:22-23a). As perceptive as his analysis is, he does not stop there. He continues, "Now, what you worship’ as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you" (v. 23b), and he proceeds to give them a Creation-to-Resurrection picture of the works and character of God, all the while lovingly pointing out the deficits in their cultural understanding of God.

Was Paul culturally relevant? Absolutely. He built his witness on the basis of their experience, and he spoke in terms they could understand: straightforward Greek, phrased specifically for the philosophical mind. Yet Paul went beyond cultural relevance; he was culturally redemptive. Trusting God for the results, he took the gospel of Jesus Christ—a message that went totally counter to their culture—and applied it to their lives. Verses 32 through 34 show us what happened: "When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, ‘We want to hear you again on this subject.’... A few men became followers of Paul and believed."

Worship that witnesses dares to do what Paul did, only in the context of worship. It dares to be a bridge, to acknowledge the seekers’ culture by using their best stuff, not the trash. It incorporates their style of music, their turn of a phrase, and their distinctive pattern of celebration, and it does so excellently.

However, worship that witnesses also dares to be a bridge to something. If we want our worship to evangelize, let us never forget that we are taking people somewhere. Our job is to make "more and better" worshipers. Study the culture, yes. Acknowledge the culture, yes. Use the best the culture has to offer, yes. But transcend the culture, we must. Transcend it with the whole Truth of Scripture and the Gospel.”

A church that is striving to be culturally redemptive keeps “God” at the center of all its worship services and activities. If there is to be a target audience – it should be God. The culturally redemptive church balances the need to be connected to popular culture without making Jesus “my homeboy.” It embraces and receives the world without divorcing our First Love.

Regardless of liturgy or worship style, ultimately worship is not for us – it is for God. Evangelism is a natural byproduct of a worshipping community that understands what it means to be culturally redemptive. The result is that we become a church that is effecting change in our culture – one person at a time. We must be concerned with the life change that is taking place in the people who attend our services and not just how many people are attending. The church exists to be an agent of God’s redemptive plan - always has, always will.

If you are interested I have a link on this page to Amazon.com where you can get your own copy of Worship Evangelism by Sally Morgenthaler. I have found this book extremely insightful.

                                                       

The Big Three

I have been on a spiritual journey most of my life. As far back as I can remember there has been a longing in my heart for something more. Although I can trace a religious path created by my family and other social influences - the origin of my personal search has remained a bit of a mystery. I always knew there was something incomplete inside me but I didn’t know what it was. I have discovered that my restless yearning that I felt for so many years was actually the Holy Spirit drawing me to what I desperately needed and what I had searched for my whole life - an authentic, experiential relationship with God.

You would think after discovering that the God of the universe was calling me to an intimate relationship with Himself that my life would have been characterized from that point on by ever-increasing dedication and holiness. I really do wish that were true – but it’s not. I would like to have that testimony - but I don’t.

Although I have grown in my knowledge of God and the Bible - my life, for the most part – has been a paradox. Devotion and inconsistency have been my two closest traveling companions. They’re rivalry has made my journey about as smooth as having two drivers at the wheel at the same time - each one with his own agenda and destination. Don’t get me wrong, I have a genuine relationship with God and a desire to live for Him, but I also struggled with my own human frailty and my tendency to be drawn into darkness. I can honestly say that I have experienced both the deep sense of joy that comes from dwelling in God’s presence, as well as, the profound sense of frustration with my own weaknesses and the shame that comes from living in a pit of my own desires.

Through the years God has taught me many things, although I’m not one of His brightest students and have had to retake many exams. I have learned a few things about myself and am discovering what it means to live an authentic Christian life while wrestling with my own inconsistencies. Maybe it would be better said that I am still learning, for to claim that I have learned is to infer that I have already mastered these things and have them secured neatly under my belt. This would be pretentious, for as a follower of Jesus, I am in a daily process of discovery and application - listening for God’s voice and learning to obey.

One of the most profound things I’m learning is that, on my own, I do not have the ability or the strength to live a life worthy of being called Christian. In the language of recovery it’s the principle of being powerless to control my tendency to do wrong.

Through the years I have been a retail salesman, a landscaper, a grocery clerk, a church janitor, a manager, a youth minister, a graphic designer and a worship pastor, and it has made very little difference what title I had or what I was doing for a living – I am always faced with… me. Wherever I go - there I am!

My personal track record bears witness that, in my own strength, I have been powerless to control my tendency to wander. Although I have made progress spiritually and am learning to walk close with God, it would be less than honest to say that I have only experienced victories along the way. 

Now, as the worship pastor of a large, growing church, you would think that for all the Bible studies, Christian workshops, conference and classes I have attended (and taught), that I no longer have to contend with my sinful nature, after all - I am a Pastor.

The truth is, I am still very capable of being self-centered, self-motivated and self-serving - all under the guise of ministry. Even as a Pastor, I am not immune to the big three as described in 1 John 2:16 - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes or the pride of life. The Message paints this passage with an even broader brush - wanting my own way, wanting everything for myself and wanting to appear important. Wherever I go, there I am.

What you have read so far is an excerpt of a book I started about three years ago entitled Staying Close to the Fire. (Someday I hope to actually finish it.) Isn’t it ironic that I find myself three years later and my morning devotionals this past week have been centered on 1 John 2:15-17.

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of the eyes and the boasting of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and all of its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.”

Sometimes I am amazed at how fast I can switch, mid-conversation, from a desire to help someone to a desire to draw attention to myself through subtle bragging or boasting about who I am, where I’ve been or what I’ve done... me, me, me. I so easily slip into “look at me – look at me,” “hey, I’m someone special.”  Sometimes I feel just like a little boy jumping up and down, waving my arms in the air trying to get validation that I am someone special. “See me,” “validate me,” “be impressed by me.”

I believe I am beginning to understand that, for me, the “big three” all stem from a sense of lack or emptiness. I am discovering that at the center of my frustrating motivations and careless behaviors has been an empty heart. Whenever my relationship with God starts to drift or is not fresh and alive – my motives start to wander. My behavior then simply becomes a reckless attempt to meet my own needs - separate from God. Being self-centered, self-motivated and self-serving is a powerful indicator that I am running on empty. I am reminded again today – “be filled with the spirit.”

“For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.” Romans 8:13

Check your own heart today…

1. The lust of the flesh - sensual carnal desires.

2. The lust of the eyes – being greedy or envious of what others have or even desiring to be someone else.

3. The pride of life - boasting and bragging, wanting to appear important, wanting others to validate you or wanting others to believe you are someone special.