So there I was, watching the Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards, along with my almost 18 year old daughter. Okay, I think she was actually reading a book on the other end of the couch, but I’m sure she at least glanced up periodically to find out what all the screaming was about.
Like all things related to kids and kid culture, I found myself asking, “what can I learn here that will help in the all time goal of ministering to children?” Well, there were no surprises on most of the winners. When I-Carly was announced as best television show, I dutifully asked, “what can we learn from this in our ministry?” My daughter, not looking up from her book, replied, “Start a webcast for kids.”
Not bad.
There were a lot of lessons, applications, and even a production value or two I gleaned from this slime filled excess. But the moment that stuck with me wasn’t about flash and bang and wild cheering. The moment that defined it for me was when Miley Cyrus cried.
I realize the parental jury is still out on Miley Cyrus. But when this pop culture icon, this cornerstone of children’s programming, was named best female singer, her jaw dropped and the tears fell. It was a sharp contrast to the upbeat acceptance from everyone else. What caused this display? Her voice choking, her gaze down, she said, “I thought I was going to lose.”
Amazing.
In spite of her phenomenal success, this actress/performer thought that the kids of America would not vote for her as their favorite singer. She seemed genuinely touched that she won. And I had to wonder what would cause a kid like that to feel insecure about her popularity?
For that matter, what would cause any kid to feel insecure? Or fearful? Or full of doubt?
Suddenly, the Kids’ Choice Awards intersected with the real life world of Children’s Ministries. Children with far fewer privileges and connections have a hard time believing that people like them, love them, and value them.
And that’s where those of us in Children’s Ministries can do something that Nickolodeon with its tri-level stage, flashing monitors, zip-lines, and slime cannons cannot do: build relationships with these children and let them know they are loved and cared for by others and ultimately by the Creator of the universe.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Monday, March 23, 2009
LIFE AND MINISTRY BPC (before personal computing)
It may seem hard to believe, but there was an era BPC—“before personal computing.” I grew up in that era and I conducted my early ministries in that era. No, I’m not that old (really, honestly), it’s just that the information superhighway is actually a fairly recent innovation. I cannot imagine doing what I do today without a laptop, yet there was a day when I did.
What would I have done with computing technology in the early days of my ministry? How would it have been different?
1. Study. I was (and still am) a book guy. I have lots of books. And when I study and prep, there’s no substitute for having open tomes in front of me that I can flip back and forth, shuffle around, carry with me when I need to stretch, and (as needed) use to dispatch a spider or two to the afterlife.
Yet, there is no denying that some of my study and prep took a leap forward when someone gave me a copy of QuickVerse. Suddenly, I could compare Bible versions side by side, bring up a map of the region, and access a commentary. And with the internet, I could find illustrations, cultural connections, and a virtual deluge of info that could help me in getting ready for a sermon. These tools and more have not replaced books, but they have made finding and organizing the data a little faster.
2. Productivity. When I was younger, I remember the Sunday School lady coming into each classroom, count the kids, write something in her little book, and leave. I found some of those records when I later became the pastor of that same church. I admired the loving care and dedication of that dear saint, but I also wondered if there was a better, more efficient way of doing it, that at least would allow this woman to get to her own Sunday School class on time. Preparing bulletins, writing reports, and managing the sheer amount of basic paperwork was a task that took time and patience.
We have tools available now that would have helped, from simple and very basic spreadsheets to sophisticated attendance/security systems. Bulletins could be prepared, edited, and stored in advance. I could actually type a report, stop, save, and come back to it later, rather than have to invest a long period of time in typing it in one sitting.
3. Networking. The first church I pastored full time was a small church in Colorado, affiliated with a major denomination. Once or twice a year, we’d get together in our region and swap stories and get motivated about the latest denominational trend. But phone calls were not always practical and snail mail was, well, slow. And aside from the local ministerial alliance in our city, I had very little contact with anybody outside.
With the rise of the internet, that has changed. I can communicate in real or near real time with ministry colleagues across the country. I’ve met some in person, and some I haven’t, but I count them as friends and partners in ministry. This is tremendous, because it combats the feeling of loneliness that often swamps those in ministry.
4. Wider presence. Evangelism and discipleship are primarily “individual contact” activities. That will not change. But there are also other avenues that churches often use to spread the word that they are there. If your church had a big enough budget, you could take out advertising in the local newspaper or phone directory. You could invest in a bigger sign. And if you really wanted to be noticed, you could get a drive time spot on the Christian radio station or produce your own church broadcast. But if you didn’t have money, you did what our church did: try to get as many events mentioned in the paper as possible. And for a small church, that wasn’t very many. Our evangelism and discipleship were one-on-one, but we had no wider presence beyond that.
But with the rise of the internet, a church can create a website, have a podcast, and spread their message far and wide for little or no extra cost. It’s like having an instantly updated church flyer available to anyone 24-7! Many are the times I’ve thought about my early churches and what a website for these churches would have looked like.
5. Fun. Okay, I was not exactly cut off from civilization in these early ministries. We had cable. I listened to the radio. But there were few instant distractions available.
Since then, I have come to appreciate the internet as a place to read an interesting article from a newspaper in another part of the country, listen to inspiring music, or even watch an entire episode of a television show from my youth.
What would I have done with computing technology in the early days of my ministry? How would it have been different?
1. Study. I was (and still am) a book guy. I have lots of books. And when I study and prep, there’s no substitute for having open tomes in front of me that I can flip back and forth, shuffle around, carry with me when I need to stretch, and (as needed) use to dispatch a spider or two to the afterlife.
Yet, there is no denying that some of my study and prep took a leap forward when someone gave me a copy of QuickVerse. Suddenly, I could compare Bible versions side by side, bring up a map of the region, and access a commentary. And with the internet, I could find illustrations, cultural connections, and a virtual deluge of info that could help me in getting ready for a sermon. These tools and more have not replaced books, but they have made finding and organizing the data a little faster.
2. Productivity. When I was younger, I remember the Sunday School lady coming into each classroom, count the kids, write something in her little book, and leave. I found some of those records when I later became the pastor of that same church. I admired the loving care and dedication of that dear saint, but I also wondered if there was a better, more efficient way of doing it, that at least would allow this woman to get to her own Sunday School class on time. Preparing bulletins, writing reports, and managing the sheer amount of basic paperwork was a task that took time and patience.
We have tools available now that would have helped, from simple and very basic spreadsheets to sophisticated attendance/security systems. Bulletins could be prepared, edited, and stored in advance. I could actually type a report, stop, save, and come back to it later, rather than have to invest a long period of time in typing it in one sitting.
3. Networking. The first church I pastored full time was a small church in Colorado, affiliated with a major denomination. Once or twice a year, we’d get together in our region and swap stories and get motivated about the latest denominational trend. But phone calls were not always practical and snail mail was, well, slow. And aside from the local ministerial alliance in our city, I had very little contact with anybody outside.
With the rise of the internet, that has changed. I can communicate in real or near real time with ministry colleagues across the country. I’ve met some in person, and some I haven’t, but I count them as friends and partners in ministry. This is tremendous, because it combats the feeling of loneliness that often swamps those in ministry.
4. Wider presence. Evangelism and discipleship are primarily “individual contact” activities. That will not change. But there are also other avenues that churches often use to spread the word that they are there. If your church had a big enough budget, you could take out advertising in the local newspaper or phone directory. You could invest in a bigger sign. And if you really wanted to be noticed, you could get a drive time spot on the Christian radio station or produce your own church broadcast. But if you didn’t have money, you did what our church did: try to get as many events mentioned in the paper as possible. And for a small church, that wasn’t very many. Our evangelism and discipleship were one-on-one, but we had no wider presence beyond that.
But with the rise of the internet, a church can create a website, have a podcast, and spread their message far and wide for little or no extra cost. It’s like having an instantly updated church flyer available to anyone 24-7! Many are the times I’ve thought about my early churches and what a website for these churches would have looked like.
5. Fun. Okay, I was not exactly cut off from civilization in these early ministries. We had cable. I listened to the radio. But there were few instant distractions available.
Since then, I have come to appreciate the internet as a place to read an interesting article from a newspaper in another part of the country, listen to inspiring music, or even watch an entire episode of a television show from my youth.
No, I did not have a personal computer or internet in those days. The ministries presented their own challenges and opportunities for growth and development. While I wish I knew then what I know now, I have no real regrets. But there is no doubt that the rise of computer technology has altered the way we do this thing called “ministry.” And another twenty years from now, I may once again be wondering what this era would have been like with the new technology.
image: www.freeimages.co.uk
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
SPECIAL FEATURE: BIBLE STORY TIME
What is over half a century old, sounds illegal, and is one of the largest groups in the church?
The answer is Bible Story Time, the Friday afternoon "release time" ministry of the Eagle Point Community Bible Church (in Oregon). It is the second oldest children's ministry in our church, having started sometime in the early 50's. There are older members of our congregation who remember attending it when they were kids. Even though some of the methodology behind it has changed, the basic premise is the same: elementary school children are escorted from the school to the church building, where they spend time singing songs and hearing Bible stories, after which they are returned to school.
The answer is Bible Story Time, the Friday afternoon "release time" ministry of the Eagle Point Community Bible Church (in Oregon). It is the second oldest children's ministry in our church, having started sometime in the early 50's. There are older members of our congregation who remember attending it when they were kids. Even though some of the methodology behind it has changed, the basic premise is the same: elementary school children are escorted from the school to the church building, where they spend time singing songs and hearing Bible stories, after which they are returned to school.
Yes, it happens during school hours. The public school teachers actually dismiss children from class to go to church!
"But how is that possible?" one may ask, while casting a nervous glance for the "separation of church and state" lawyers hovering in the bushes.
The first answer has to do with Oregon state law, which allows students (with parental permission) to be released from class for the purpose of "religious instruction." I am not a lawyer or the son of a lawyer, but I know that there are equal access laws that cannot discriminate on the basis of faith. The Oregon law is actually a recognition that parents can arrange for religious teaching time for their children, even if that religious teaching time is during school hours. It's been on the books for decades. Other organizations, such as Child Evangelism Fellowship, have successfully conducted Good New Clubs during school hours for years. Bible Story Time is part of the legacy of release time ministries.
The second answer has to do with the nature and makeup of our community. Even though Eagle Point is one of the fastest growing cities in the region, it still retains a "small town" charm and feel. Since the church has been around since just after the turn of the century (the last one, not this one!), it has grown and developed with the city. In short, we have a "presence." School officials come and go, but Bible Story Time keeps going.
Public school students gather to hear the Word!
Because our church is nearly across the street from one of the two elementary schools we serve, the mechanics of Bible Story Time are fairly simple. A group of "walkers" go to the different classrooms with their lists of kids whose parents have given signed permission for them to attend Bible Story Time. The kids are walked over to the church for the session (which lasts approximately 20-30 minutes) and then returned to their classes. To serve the other elementary school, a bus is driven to and parked by the school. The kids are retrieved from class and escorted to the bus for the session.Of course, there have been challenges along the way. As administrators have come and gone, the amount of "recruiting" the church has been allowed to do has changed. At one time, the schools would automatically include a Bible Story Time flyer in the parent packets sent home with the kids. Nowadays, the church is allowed to set up a small table in the corner of the gymnasium during registration/orientation, where parents are free to pick up a registration slip. While most teachers have supported the release time, there have been a few that have left no doubt as to their loathing for having to disrupt the kids' academic day. One teacher even complained about having to “de-program” her students after they attended. Thankfully, those teachers are by far in the minority.
Another challenge occurred a short time ago, when one of the two elementary schools within walking distance of the church was closed down in order for a new elementary school to be built about a mile and a half away. The Bible Story Time team prayed about and evaluated whether or not to continue the ministry with just the one school or try to find a way to include the second school. The solution came with the purchase of a full size school bus. The bus parks near the new school and the kids are walked from class to their portable "chapel."
Kids listening to the Gospel as one of the story tellers shares
The surprising thing about the Bible Story Time ministry is that it is decidedly "old school" in its approach, yet attracts nearly 150 children each week. The songs are a mix of vintage Child Evangelism Fellowship and 70's Maranatha. The Bible stories vary by the teacher and range from flannel graph illustrations and puppets to object lessons and full blown mini-dramas. For many children, it is the only “church” they get.
Obviously, the most wonderful aspect of Bible Story Time is the dozens of children over the years who have professed faith in Jesus Christ through this work. But also significant is the individual ministry that happens with a child who asks a profound question, requests prayer for a sick relative, or mentions a deep need. In the short amount of time in which Bible Story Time takes place, there is a tremendous and profound connection.
For 50 plus years, dozens of walkers and story tellers have helped children hear the Good News during the week. And as the Lord directs, there are no plans to let up.
Teacher Tim and Dyzzee take a turn at telling the Bible Story
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
INAGURATION THOUGHTS
I have a confession to make: I did not vote for Barack Obama.
I have fundamental disagreements with some of our new President's expressed philosophies. And that's okay, because I have that freedom as an American.
And that's okay, because others have that freedom as well. And they exercised that freedom by electing Mr. Obama as the 44th President of the United States. And my heart is soaring as I write this because....Mr. Obama is my president too!
He did not get there because of a violent coup. He was not installed by a government dictatorship. No matter what our political leanings are, it's worth noting that Barack Obama was elected by a process that has endured for over 230 years. Very few places in the world can claim the peaceful transfer of power like our country.
The news mentioned some critics of all the inaguration day pomp. But this is a party...a party to celebrate one of the things that make this country great. I don't care for campaigns, but I love the fact that we can hand off the presidency with warmth, with excitement, and with a sense of newness. Presidents Bush and Obama embraced...the sharp divides set aside for this grand celebration. It is a day unlike any other.
And so I will pray for my new president. I will pray for Mr. Obama's health and safety and for great wisdom. I will support him and honor him. And yes, I will express my disagreements with him and avail myself of the system that allows me to disagree. And that's okay, because I have that freedom as an American.
God bless Barack Obama. And God bless the United States of America.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
WHADJA GET? 2008 EDITION
Another Christmas Day has come and gone. The remnants of brightly colored wrapping paper dot the floor after missing their intended trash bag target. The good byes to relatives have been said. And the soft, quiet glow of the Christmas tree, now void of the packages that once fortified its base, silently remembers every squeal of delight and gasp of joyous amazement that was expressed .
As adults, we get very sophisticated in our attitude toward gifts. I no longer get up at 5:00 a.m. to beg my parents to open presents. Christmas Day means I can sleep in a little longer! And we maybe more clearly appreciate the fact that it's the thought that counts, that the only real gift is Jesus, and that the spirit of Christmas extends beyond December 25. I can honestly say that if I didn't get any presents on Christmas morning, it would not change my feelings one iota!
So with my priorities and attitudes firmly in place, I have to say that the kid in me loves to tear the wrapping off a package and see what's there! I like presents...I like presents at Christmas time...I like getting excited about my gifts and I like seeing my family and friends get excited about their gifts. It's fun (and sometimes emotional and moving).
So every year, we take a moment to pretend we're kids again and ask "Whadja get?" And since you asked, here's my list (not everything is on there):
As adults, we get very sophisticated in our attitude toward gifts. I no longer get up at 5:00 a.m. to beg my parents to open presents. Christmas Day means I can sleep in a little longer! And we maybe more clearly appreciate the fact that it's the thought that counts, that the only real gift is Jesus, and that the spirit of Christmas extends beyond December 25. I can honestly say that if I didn't get any presents on Christmas morning, it would not change my feelings one iota!
So with my priorities and attitudes firmly in place, I have to say that the kid in me loves to tear the wrapping off a package and see what's there! I like presents...I like presents at Christmas time...I like getting excited about my gifts and I like seeing my family and friends get excited about their gifts. It's fun (and sometimes emotional and moving).
So every year, we take a moment to pretend we're kids again and ask "Whadja get?" And since you asked, here's my list (not everything is on there):
- Two Biblical commentaries
- Purpose of Christmas by Rick Warren
- The Darwin Awards by Wendy Northcutt
- A dictionary of Hawaiin slang (from my sister-in-law, who lives in Hawaii)
- Incredible Hulk dvd
- Iron Man dvd
- Indiana Jones IV dvd
- West Wing dvd's
- Playstation game: Star Trek: Conquest
- Camera (I've had two cameras stolen in the past, so this one better have barbed wire on it!)
- a comic book collection on dvd-rom (the coolest thing if you don't neccesarily need perfectly preserved plastic wrapped collector editions).
- SD cards
- 80's song compilation
- Assorted goodies from my kids at the daycare
- Macadamia Nut brittle (from the aforementioned sister-in-law)
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
A Brief Review of The Shack
The following is a brief review of William P. Young's The Shack. There are longer reviews that give a lot more details (Google away!), but I just wanted to sum up my thoughts in a concise fashion because I've been stopped in the hallway and asked, "Have you read this book yet?" "Whadja think of it?" and so on. The opinions are my own and may not necesarily reflect the views of my church, my friends, or the Christian community in general. And as always, if you disagree, please do it nicely. :-)
"Look for the main points and don't get too theologically nit-picky!"
With that admonition echoing in my mind, I began to read The Shack by William P. Young, about a man named Mackenzie Allen Philips, whose young daughter is brutally murdered in the woods of Oregon. In the midst of his grief ("the Great Sadness", as it is referred to), Mack receives a mysterious note inviting him to the shack where the murder took place to spend the weekend with "Papa", which is the family's term of endearment for God. What follows is a colorful and eye-popping dialogue as to the nature and ways of God in a mixed up world.
Since I seem to have a reputation for being "theologically nit-picky," it may be surprising to know that I found several things to like about the book. So I want to start this brief review with the positives.
The Shack is an intensely interesting and well-written book. I found myself drawn into the disorientation of Mack, as well as his questions, to the point of wanting to keep reading in hopes of finding the answers. The author is to be commended for writing such a compelling book.
The novel challenged me to look at God "outside the box." Too many times, we tend to lock God into a denominational or traditional mold, while forgetting that He is infinitely greater than what we can conceive with our minds. It's good to have a reminder that His ways are not our ways.
I have prayed many times to see a problem or circumstance from God's perspective. The Shack attempts to do just that. If only we could see children and their parents and the world with God's eyes (as in the Brandon Heath song "Give Me Your Eyes"), it would surely change the way we do ministry. Also heavy in the book is the theme of forgiveness…poignantly showing the importance of forgiving others, even those who have done the unspeakable. After all, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. God's forgiveness humbles Mack…and it humbles me as well.
For a mature believer strong and knowledgeable in the faith, The Shack reads like a modern day parable. But the novel is not without some areas of concern and caution. While creatively portraying God's love, mercy, and grace, The Shack is silent regarding His perfect justice and wrath. It speaks glowingly of the need for and benefits of being in a right relationship with God (true!), but neglects to detail the alternative. Indeed, it is hard to picture "Papa" as being "angry with the wicked every day" (Psalm 7:11).
The First Person of the Trinity is portrayed as a woman, because Mack has struggles with a father figure. While it is true that God at times is spoken of with "motherly" characteristics, the overwhelming revelation of God in the Bible is as "Father." I would be hard pressed to find Scriptural examples of God casually assuming a manifestation in order to accommodate a human's perception. Indeed, given that "no man has seen God at any time", the very physical appearance of God the Father and God the Holy Spirit is problematic.
I'm reminded of a quote I heard long ago: "Christians are so worked up about what the Bible says, they don't know what God thinks." Perhaps my biggest concern with The Shack is the deafening lack of the Bible as the source of authority. There are several occasions in the book where Mack's seminary training and Biblical knowledge are discounted in favor of the current experience. Absolutes are set aside in order to explore the mind of "Papa". In short, The Shack comes across as a book for some sectors of the emergent generation, a theological approach that relies on exploration and conversation rather than theological absolutes.
The Shack is a good read, especially for those who struggle with grief and forgiveness. But as in anything, discernment is always a must.
"Look for the main points and don't get too theologically nit-picky!"
With that admonition echoing in my mind, I began to read The Shack by William P. Young, about a man named Mackenzie Allen Philips, whose young daughter is brutally murdered in the woods of Oregon. In the midst of his grief ("the Great Sadness", as it is referred to), Mack receives a mysterious note inviting him to the shack where the murder took place to spend the weekend with "Papa", which is the family's term of endearment for God. What follows is a colorful and eye-popping dialogue as to the nature and ways of God in a mixed up world.
Since I seem to have a reputation for being "theologically nit-picky," it may be surprising to know that I found several things to like about the book. So I want to start this brief review with the positives.
The Shack is an intensely interesting and well-written book. I found myself drawn into the disorientation of Mack, as well as his questions, to the point of wanting to keep reading in hopes of finding the answers. The author is to be commended for writing such a compelling book.
The novel challenged me to look at God "outside the box." Too many times, we tend to lock God into a denominational or traditional mold, while forgetting that He is infinitely greater than what we can conceive with our minds. It's good to have a reminder that His ways are not our ways.
I have prayed many times to see a problem or circumstance from God's perspective. The Shack attempts to do just that. If only we could see children and their parents and the world with God's eyes (as in the Brandon Heath song "Give Me Your Eyes"), it would surely change the way we do ministry. Also heavy in the book is the theme of forgiveness…poignantly showing the importance of forgiving others, even those who have done the unspeakable. After all, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. God's forgiveness humbles Mack…and it humbles me as well.
For a mature believer strong and knowledgeable in the faith, The Shack reads like a modern day parable. But the novel is not without some areas of concern and caution. While creatively portraying God's love, mercy, and grace, The Shack is silent regarding His perfect justice and wrath. It speaks glowingly of the need for and benefits of being in a right relationship with God (true!), but neglects to detail the alternative. Indeed, it is hard to picture "Papa" as being "angry with the wicked every day" (Psalm 7:11).
The First Person of the Trinity is portrayed as a woman, because Mack has struggles with a father figure. While it is true that God at times is spoken of with "motherly" characteristics, the overwhelming revelation of God in the Bible is as "Father." I would be hard pressed to find Scriptural examples of God casually assuming a manifestation in order to accommodate a human's perception. Indeed, given that "no man has seen God at any time", the very physical appearance of God the Father and God the Holy Spirit is problematic.
I'm reminded of a quote I heard long ago: "Christians are so worked up about what the Bible says, they don't know what God thinks." Perhaps my biggest concern with The Shack is the deafening lack of the Bible as the source of authority. There are several occasions in the book where Mack's seminary training and Biblical knowledge are discounted in favor of the current experience. Absolutes are set aside in order to explore the mind of "Papa". In short, The Shack comes across as a book for some sectors of the emergent generation, a theological approach that relies on exploration and conversation rather than theological absolutes.
The Shack is a good read, especially for those who struggle with grief and forgiveness. But as in anything, discernment is always a must.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
TEN OF MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY SHOWS
Ever so often, someone will ask me what my favorite Christmas show is. There is no easy way to answer that, since I enjoy so many. So about two years ago, I made a list (and checked it twice) of specials and movies that I enjoy over the month of December. I dug it out, made a couple of changes, and will now post it for your viewing enjoyment.
A few notes before you start reading:
1. The list is no particular order. There is no significance to listing one above the other. They are totally random and non-alphabetized.
2. I limited the list to ten (plus one special bonus), but that doesn't mean there aren't more that I enjoy.
3. You can agree or disagree on my choices or my brief summations, but be nice about it. After all, you wouldn't want a lump of coal in your stocking.
4. As in all pop-culture offerings, I urge folks to use caution. Parents, watch and discuss these with your children. In some cases (most notably Christmas Vacation), you may want to watch the "edited for tv" version instead, as it removes some of the more unsavory elements.
And away we go.....
Charlie Brown Christmas
"And that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." Poor Charlie Brown can't catch a break, even at Christmas time. What is so memorable about this holiday favorite is the clear, unapologetic declaration from the gospel of Luke about the true significance of the season. I don't know of too many secular shows today that could get away with that.
Jingle All the Way
"It's Turbo time!" The governor of California on the hunt for a Turbo Man action figure on Christmas Eve. Yup, it's a commentary on the insanity of marketing and merchandising. Of course, it casts a nod and a wink at the madness of Christmas Eve shopping. No, the characters don't behave very nicely. But at its heart is a touching parable of being a father and keeping promises.
A Christmas Story
"You'll shoot your eye out, kid." A slice of nostalgia featuring young Ralphie and his quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. Although set at a time before I was born, I still recognize a lot of elements from Christmas' past.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
"Later, dudes." The idealism of Gus Griswold verses a cynical universe. I can relate to Gus' desire to have a picture perfect Christmas, as well as the frustration of nothing going the way I pictured it.
Miracle on 34th Street
"I believe." Okay, it's not rocket-science, but the "trial of Santa" is still one of the most enduring images of the holiday season, with just enough element of "is he or isn't he?" to keep me on the edge of my seat. Wow...what would John Grisham have done with this plot? (side note: much maligned and not as gripping, the modern remake is still worth a look...a remarkably innocent and faithful treatment).
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
"I'm cued, she said I'm cued!" I struggle with this tale every year...it seems that everyone is a little hard on Rudolph. But the songs are classic and the Bumble steals the show (trivia point: why does the head elf's voice suddenly change? 1000 Teacher Tim points to the first person who has a good answer).
Frosty the Snowman
"Happy Birthday!" Another classic with a memorable story line (for the record, I cannot stand the sequels).
The Santa Clause
"Did you just growl at me?" Tim Allen in a fun story of a sales rep who becomes the big guy. It is hilarious watching his gradual transformation and attempts to explain them to this family and co-workers. The sequels were good, but I did not like them as well.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
"Hey! Unto you a child is born!" This is mandatory viewing for all children's ministers and others involved in putting on Christmas programs. The horrible Herdmans take over the church Christmas pageant and it's up to Loretta Swit (from MASH) to ride herd. Very touching and emotional ending.
Home Alone
"Ahhhhhhggghhhh!" The highly improbable story of a kid who defends his home against a pair of burglars after being left behind by his family. This is a live action cartoon, with very creative injuries being inflicted upon the bad guys that would hospitalize a real person. But the touching reunion at the end is good, with the importance of family being reaffirmed.
In a category by itself: It's A Wonderful Life
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." Some movies rise above lists. This is one of them.
A few notes before you start reading:
1. The list is no particular order. There is no significance to listing one above the other. They are totally random and non-alphabetized.
2. I limited the list to ten (plus one special bonus), but that doesn't mean there aren't more that I enjoy.
3. You can agree or disagree on my choices or my brief summations, but be nice about it. After all, you wouldn't want a lump of coal in your stocking.
4. As in all pop-culture offerings, I urge folks to use caution. Parents, watch and discuss these with your children. In some cases (most notably Christmas Vacation), you may want to watch the "edited for tv" version instead, as it removes some of the more unsavory elements.
And away we go.....
Charlie Brown Christmas
"And that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." Poor Charlie Brown can't catch a break, even at Christmas time. What is so memorable about this holiday favorite is the clear, unapologetic declaration from the gospel of Luke about the true significance of the season. I don't know of too many secular shows today that could get away with that.
Jingle All the Way
"It's Turbo time!" The governor of California on the hunt for a Turbo Man action figure on Christmas Eve. Yup, it's a commentary on the insanity of marketing and merchandising. Of course, it casts a nod and a wink at the madness of Christmas Eve shopping. No, the characters don't behave very nicely. But at its heart is a touching parable of being a father and keeping promises.
A Christmas Story
"You'll shoot your eye out, kid." A slice of nostalgia featuring young Ralphie and his quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. Although set at a time before I was born, I still recognize a lot of elements from Christmas' past.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
"Later, dudes." The idealism of Gus Griswold verses a cynical universe. I can relate to Gus' desire to have a picture perfect Christmas, as well as the frustration of nothing going the way I pictured it.
Miracle on 34th Street
"I believe." Okay, it's not rocket-science, but the "trial of Santa" is still one of the most enduring images of the holiday season, with just enough element of "is he or isn't he?" to keep me on the edge of my seat. Wow...what would John Grisham have done with this plot? (side note: much maligned and not as gripping, the modern remake is still worth a look...a remarkably innocent and faithful treatment).
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
"I'm cued, she said I'm cued!" I struggle with this tale every year...it seems that everyone is a little hard on Rudolph. But the songs are classic and the Bumble steals the show (trivia point: why does the head elf's voice suddenly change? 1000 Teacher Tim points to the first person who has a good answer).
Frosty the Snowman
"Happy Birthday!" Another classic with a memorable story line (for the record, I cannot stand the sequels).
The Santa Clause
"Did you just growl at me?" Tim Allen in a fun story of a sales rep who becomes the big guy. It is hilarious watching his gradual transformation and attempts to explain them to this family and co-workers. The sequels were good, but I did not like them as well.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
"Hey! Unto you a child is born!" This is mandatory viewing for all children's ministers and others involved in putting on Christmas programs. The horrible Herdmans take over the church Christmas pageant and it's up to Loretta Swit (from MASH) to ride herd. Very touching and emotional ending.
Home Alone
"Ahhhhhhggghhhh!" The highly improbable story of a kid who defends his home against a pair of burglars after being left behind by his family. This is a live action cartoon, with very creative injuries being inflicted upon the bad guys that would hospitalize a real person. But the touching reunion at the end is good, with the importance of family being reaffirmed.
In a category by itself: It's A Wonderful Life
"Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." Some movies rise above lists. This is one of them.
Friday, November 21, 2008
EASY TO FORGIVE?
A speaker once remarked, "We are never closer to imitating God then when we forgive someone."
That is a profound statement, but I have had people challenge it. "After all, God is love," they say, "and so it is when we love others that we are most like our Creator."
Well,yes. Overall, grandly, love is or should be the defining characteristic of the Christian. Jesus said it is the key identifying sign that we are His disciples. All other virtues flow from that. So yes, let us agree that "the greatest of these is love."
Having established that, I am forced to ask the question, "what's easier to say: 'I love you' or 'I forgive you'?" I'm reminded of the time Jesus saw the paralyzed man in Matthew 9. He said to him, "Be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven." I can imagine the paralyzed man thinking, "uhhh..thank you for the sentiment." The religious leaders had a different reaction: "Blasphemy!" Their logic was sound: only God can forgive sins, so for Jesus to claim to forgive sins, He must be claiming to be God!
Jesus then asked, "What's easier to say, 'Your sins are forgiven' or 'rise up and walk'?" Technically speaking, neither is easy, because a mere mortal can not do either one. But has far as just saying it, obviously, "your sins are forgiven you" is much easier to say, because no one can see that happening. Unless we can devise a way to peer into the spiritual heart of a human being, we just don't know.
But in order to demonstrate His authority, Jesus then went on to heal the paralyzed man! Again, using simple reasoning, if Jesus could do something that was obvious and observable (healing), then he must also possess the power to do the hidden work of the heart (forgiving sins).
"Okay, Teacher Tim, I know this story and the theological implications therein. What's your point?" I'm glad you asked.
I contend that it is far easier to say, "I love you" than to say "I forgive you." When I say I love someone, nobody can really see it. Besides, I can qualify my statement in such a way as it gets me "off the hook." For example, I can say, "I love her, but I don't really like her." Or that great Christian pious cop out: "I love you in the Lord" (translation: "there is no way I'll spend Thanksgiving with you because I think you're despicable, but (deep breath) I love you in the Lord."). It's just so easy to let the words roll off our tongue.
But "I forgive you"---that's a different story. You see, when you say you forgive someone, everyone is watching you. And if you slip up and bring up the past offense, or display indignation about the trespass, or (perish the thought) continue to hold a grudge, the witnesses to your "forgiveness" will shake their heads and say, "I knew he didn't/couldn't/wouldn't forgive." Never mind that we are all fallible human beings with weaknesses and faults. Never mind that even the most godly of Christians stumble at times. As far as the eyewitnesses are concerned, unforgiveness is just another sign of hypocrisy. That's why forgiveness is so hard.
But if we can forgive as Christ forgave us, if we can demonstrate the God-kind of forgiveness (the obvious work), then it bolsters our claim to love (the hidden work). It becomes a manifestation of love.
Easy? No. Needed? Yes. Impossible without God? Absolutely.
That is a profound statement, but I have had people challenge it. "After all, God is love," they say, "and so it is when we love others that we are most like our Creator."
Well,yes. Overall, grandly, love is or should be the defining characteristic of the Christian. Jesus said it is the key identifying sign that we are His disciples. All other virtues flow from that. So yes, let us agree that "the greatest of these is love."
Having established that, I am forced to ask the question, "what's easier to say: 'I love you' or 'I forgive you'?" I'm reminded of the time Jesus saw the paralyzed man in Matthew 9. He said to him, "Be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven." I can imagine the paralyzed man thinking, "uhhh..thank you for the sentiment." The religious leaders had a different reaction: "Blasphemy!" Their logic was sound: only God can forgive sins, so for Jesus to claim to forgive sins, He must be claiming to be God!
Jesus then asked, "What's easier to say, 'Your sins are forgiven' or 'rise up and walk'?" Technically speaking, neither is easy, because a mere mortal can not do either one. But has far as just saying it, obviously, "your sins are forgiven you" is much easier to say, because no one can see that happening. Unless we can devise a way to peer into the spiritual heart of a human being, we just don't know.
But in order to demonstrate His authority, Jesus then went on to heal the paralyzed man! Again, using simple reasoning, if Jesus could do something that was obvious and observable (healing), then he must also possess the power to do the hidden work of the heart (forgiving sins).
"Okay, Teacher Tim, I know this story and the theological implications therein. What's your point?" I'm glad you asked.
I contend that it is far easier to say, "I love you" than to say "I forgive you." When I say I love someone, nobody can really see it. Besides, I can qualify my statement in such a way as it gets me "off the hook." For example, I can say, "I love her, but I don't really like her." Or that great Christian pious cop out: "I love you in the Lord" (translation: "there is no way I'll spend Thanksgiving with you because I think you're despicable, but (deep breath) I love you in the Lord."). It's just so easy to let the words roll off our tongue.
But "I forgive you"---that's a different story. You see, when you say you forgive someone, everyone is watching you. And if you slip up and bring up the past offense, or display indignation about the trespass, or (perish the thought) continue to hold a grudge, the witnesses to your "forgiveness" will shake their heads and say, "I knew he didn't/couldn't/wouldn't forgive." Never mind that we are all fallible human beings with weaknesses and faults. Never mind that even the most godly of Christians stumble at times. As far as the eyewitnesses are concerned, unforgiveness is just another sign of hypocrisy. That's why forgiveness is so hard.
But if we can forgive as Christ forgave us, if we can demonstrate the God-kind of forgiveness (the obvious work), then it bolsters our claim to love (the hidden work). It becomes a manifestation of love.
Easy? No. Needed? Yes. Impossible without God? Absolutely.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
THOUGHTS ON THE ELECTION
A brother and colleague from the Chicago area wrote a blog entry about the recently completed presidential election. It sums up many of my thoughts so well, that I wanted to point everyone to it.
Praise the Lord for the freedom we have as American citizens. I would hope and pray that the Christian community, the conservative community, the Republican community, etc. will treat our new President with more respect and honor than the other side did President Bush. As another one of my online friends said: "it's time to pray for our President, not against him."
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
SHEER ARTISTRY
It's a big green tree. It sits in our front yard. It is badly in need of pruning. But as autumn arrives, a startling metamorphisis occurs. 
We open the door as the sun bathes the front yard. We are greeted by a brilliant yellow/orange glow as the rays strike and reflect our tree.
Just as rapidly as the green leaves transform to an incredible portrait of brilliant color, they will plummet to the ground, covering my lawn with reminders of how God never changes, even though the seasons might.
We open the door as the sun bathes the front yard. We are greeted by a brilliant yellow/orange glow as the rays strike and reflect our tree.
Just as rapidly as the green leaves transform to an incredible portrait of brilliant color, they will plummet to the ground, covering my lawn with reminders of how God never changes, even though the seasons might.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
RVCMN CONFERENCE 08 REPORT
I just returned from the Rogue Valley Children's Ministries Conference, put on by (who else) the Rogue Valley Children's Ministries Network. While I have been blessed to attend the BIG conference (CPC in sunny San Diego), I always make it a priority to attend our local annual conference. This year, it was a little further from home (approximately 30-40 minute drive), but the highway gave us a chance to admire God's creation.
The event was held at Parkway Christian Center in Grants Pass with the host children's pastor Bryan Reeder.
We had a small group (my oldest daughter snapped the picture. My younger daughter had to stay home with a nasty bug!). But there were smiles all around throughout the conference.
The keynote speaker was Jason Noble, director of CMA (Children's Ministries Agency) in the Assemblies of God. In the course of our conversation between sessions, I found out that he and his wife have family in Eagle Point (our home town)! The theme for the conferecne was INVEST, INCLUDE, IMAGINE. Mr. Noble developed the theme in three general "gatherings". During the second gathering, he invited us (ordered us?) to move to another table and answer some questions with people we've never met before (Hi there, Jan and Heidi!). One of the most provocative statements Jason made was that burnout is not the result of too much work, but rather the result of "dream deficit." He ended the day by challenging us to regain and refresh the dream and vision God had for our children's ministries.There were workshops covering a variety of subjects. Since our children's ministry is starting to explore how best to meet the challenge of special needs kids, the first workshop I attended was on special needs. It was encouraging and thought-provoking. I also attended workshops on teaching the Bible and tips and techniques for teaching using powerpoint.
Before we knew it, the conference was over and we got loaded in the van to start the trip back. We shared some of our insights, compared notes on workshops, and thought of ways to implement what we learned.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
CELEBRATION CONFESSIONS AND BLESSINGS
I love Sunday Morning Celebration. If I have a failing, it's in the fact that ideas and inovations come to me sometimes at the last moment. The KidServants who minister with me are some of the most loving, most flexible, most adaptable people in the world...and they have to be, since I often end up coming up with something totally off the proverbial wall the night before or sometimes the morning of! I'm sure more than one of them has shaken their head and wondered when I'm going to have a typed up master plan for Sunday morning submitted in triplicate the week before (and if you are reading this and you used to be in our department and I've driven you away by my "seat of the pants" approach, please forgive me).
I actually am really organized and yes, there is a plan. It's just that, well, sometimes I find another way of doing things or I come across an idea for a game or skit or object lesson that might work out better. You're right...I do need to nail down the plans a little better, if for no other reason than to keep our gaggle waddling in the same direction!
Case in point: the tabernacle. That's a tough one for kids (even adult eyes start glazing over at how much gold, silver, bronze, badger skins, and fasteners were needed). Then it hit me: let's build a tabernacle! My mind raced with images of yards of fabric held up with duct tape on pvc pipe, cardboard boxes shaped like incense altars, and a wooden altar, complete with the electric fire effect.
Sadly, my ambition was offset by a lack of time and resources. So I had to settle for a tabernacle layout.
With Awana game lines crisscrossing on the "desert" floor, we laid out our 1/10 scale tabernacle on the floor (okay, the perimeter was 1/10, the rest was a guess). We had an altar, a basin, the holy place and the holy of holies in more or less the correct positions. Then we gathered the kids and had them stand by classes around the "tabernacle", where we talked about one way to God and accessing God's holiness. One of the kids raised her hand and asked, "why did an animal have to die?" Wow...either she was looking at my outline, or the Holy Spirit prompted her! So even though it wasn't the spectacular, interactive scale model, the kids understood.
With Awana game lines crisscrossing on the "desert" floor, we laid out our 1/10 scale tabernacle on the floor (okay, the perimeter was 1/10, the rest was a guess). We had an altar, a basin, the holy place and the holy of holies in more or less the correct positions. Then we gathered the kids and had them stand by classes around the "tabernacle", where we talked about one way to God and accessing God's holiness. One of the kids raised her hand and asked, "why did an animal have to die?" Wow...either she was looking at my outline, or the Holy Spirit prompted her! So even though it wasn't the spectacular, interactive scale model, the kids understood.An idea I received from Children's Ministries in the 21st Century had to do with prayer. We set up prayer stations along the wall, each one with an activity that corresponded to the Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication elements of prayer. The Supplication station invited kids to think of the name of a person they are praying for and write it on a bandaid. It was somewhat emotional, as I know the situations for some of the kids and who they put on that bandaid. Others I did not know, but I knew the kids had someone on their heart to intercede for.
Today, a little girl wanted to show me her "Thank you" card. It listed the items one would expect from a child..."mommy" and "daddy" and "puppies" and "toys". But one item that really blessed me was "Church music." She was thankful for church music...specifically the music we do at Sunday Morning Celebration. And then, underneath, she wrote: "LOUD church music!"
Today, a little girl wanted to show me her "Thank you" card. It listed the items one would expect from a child..."mommy" and "daddy" and "puppies" and "toys". But one item that really blessed me was "Church music." She was thankful for church music...specifically the music we do at Sunday Morning Celebration. And then, underneath, she wrote: "LOUD church music!"I love it!
There's a bumper sticker that say, "Lord, help me be the kind of man my dog thinks I am." I'd like to change that to: "Lord, help me be the kind of KidServant the children and their parents and my volunteers think I am.....to the praise of Your glory!"
(and yes, I'll try to write this stuff down ahead of time!)
Sunday, September 07, 2008
CELEBRATION ROUNDUP 08: GREAT DAY, GREAT GOD!
Hello?
What's loud and fun and full of smiles and laughter and, oh yes, loud? And what instills Bible principles and encourages kids to be a part of the best morning of the week at the same time?Give up? It's Celebration Roundup. Part pep rally, part family reunion, this is our annual fall kick off event. The "normal" routine goes out the window as we spend both the Sunday School hour ("small group time") and the main hour ("large group time") in a big party. Along the way, we learned about how special we are because God created us and how His love helps us in times of sorrow and need. With kids going back to school, this is a neat reminder.
We had a good turnout for Roundup. Since families travel and sometimes get out of the habit of coming on Sunday morning, Roundup is a great way to get back into the swing of things. Plus it is an easy portal for kids to get other kids to join the fun.
On a personal note, I am overwhelmed with the heart of the men and women and teens in our children's ministries. As always, they stepped up and stepped in and stepped out to make the Roundup so amazing (in spite of last minute adjustments "on the fly"). If you are on our team and you are reading this, I want everyone to know how much I appreciate you.
Now...on to a few pics...
Jumping
Eating
Puppets
Praising
EnjoyingTuesday, August 19, 2008
INTERESTING: THE FINAL CHAPTER (and a new beginning)
If you've read my blogs over the last couple of years, you recall a couple of reports on an interesting development in our church. (I'll summarize in a moment, or you can just go to Interesting 1 and Interesting 2 for the skinny!). I know many of you have been praying and have been curious as to what's happened.
Back in January of 2007, our leadership decided to transfer all the duties and responsibilities of the "Children's Ministries Director" over to our Christian Education Elder. I was allowed to lead the kids' program on Sunday morning (and also direct VBS), but I had no authority to really run with anything (not to mention having absolutely no input or involvement in the rest of the children's programs). The sudden move left me feeling a little bewildered and befuddled.
Since that time, I've tried to be faithful to the ministry that I have been given on Sunday mornings. It's been good. But as 2007 drew to a close, I wondered if it was time for our church to take a good, solid look at children's ministries in general and the part I would (by God's leading) play in it. But delays and cancellations caused the issue to be postponed. January turned into February and spring rolled into summer, but the board still had not had an opportunity to even hear the proposals.
Until Tuesday. At the monthly board meeting, the C.E. Elder and the former C.E. Elder teamed up to make the proposal that I be appointed as "Children's Pastor" of our church.
The leadership agreed.
So now I'm officially the CP of our church. Since I already do a lot of the things that are done, the change will not be a major dramatic one. What it does primarily is give me the freedom to once again tie our ministry programs together and "kick it up a notch" or two.
Thank you to all of you who have prayed and offered encouragement during my time of "wonderings." Let the new chapter begin....
Back in January of 2007, our leadership decided to transfer all the duties and responsibilities of the "Children's Ministries Director" over to our Christian Education Elder. I was allowed to lead the kids' program on Sunday morning (and also direct VBS), but I had no authority to really run with anything (not to mention having absolutely no input or involvement in the rest of the children's programs). The sudden move left me feeling a little bewildered and befuddled.
Since that time, I've tried to be faithful to the ministry that I have been given on Sunday mornings. It's been good. But as 2007 drew to a close, I wondered if it was time for our church to take a good, solid look at children's ministries in general and the part I would (by God's leading) play in it. But delays and cancellations caused the issue to be postponed. January turned into February and spring rolled into summer, but the board still had not had an opportunity to even hear the proposals.
Until Tuesday. At the monthly board meeting, the C.E. Elder and the former C.E. Elder teamed up to make the proposal that I be appointed as "Children's Pastor" of our church.
The leadership agreed.
So now I'm officially the CP of our church. Since I already do a lot of the things that are done, the change will not be a major dramatic one. What it does primarily is give me the freedom to once again tie our ministry programs together and "kick it up a notch" or two.
Thank you to all of you who have prayed and offered encouragement during my time of "wonderings." Let the new chapter begin....
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
CHECK OUT JELLY TELLY
Not much to add to this link (and I'm really late mentioning it!), but here's the next big thing in children's online entertainment: Jelly Telly. Going to this link will take you to a video that is about 30 minutes long, but well worth it. Jelly Telly comes to us from the heart of Phil Vischer, the creator of Veggie Tales. This promo video introduces the viewer to a new platform for reaching kids on their level.
I had the privilege of listening to Phil Vischer at the 2007 Children's Pastor's Conference in San Diego. He's a man with a heart for the Lord and for children. In this day and age of Nickolodeon and Disney Channel, Jelly Telly looks to be an exciting alternative that, in my humble opinion, we should all get behind. So check out the video and get ready to see the birth of a fresh wave of quality programming for kids.
I had the privilege of listening to Phil Vischer at the 2007 Children's Pastor's Conference in San Diego. He's a man with a heart for the Lord and for children. In this day and age of Nickolodeon and Disney Channel, Jelly Telly looks to be an exciting alternative that, in my humble opinion, we should all get behind. So check out the video and get ready to see the birth of a fresh wave of quality programming for kids.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
RANDOM THOUGHTS ON MY BRAIN
The following are just some short notes about what's on my mind, in no particular order....
- Another memorable VBS moment from one of our leaders: One of our stations allowed the kids to "walk on water" like Peter (it was a recipe with cornstarch and stuff...gross to mix up, but the effect is cool!). One of the girls was on crutches from a sprained ankle. When it was her turn to "walk across the water," two other girls--without any prompting, directing, or encouragement--got up and helped her get across! I get a lump in my throat every time I think about it.
- A young lady in our church is getting ready to leave our community to tour with the Siver Ring Thing, a major abstinence education production that goes around the nation and other countries. It is so cool to see kids that used to be in the ministry start to go out and do the ministry!
- There are 49 tiny squares produced by the weave pattern in the generic store version of a Triscuit cracker (yes, I counted).
- New website in my link section: Hollywood Jesus. The webmaster, David Bruce, is from our area, but the ministry is nationwide. The site is full of reviews and analyses of movies, tv shows, comics, and pop culture from a spiritual perspective. Agree, disagree, or think futher--this is a good resource to add.
- I calcuate that I get seven phone directories every year. I am notoriously bad at not throwing out my phone directories. Being as it is starting to look like a tower, I think it's time to make a trip to the recycling center.
- To my ministry friend in Illinois who is playing "Mr. Mom" for an extended period while his wife is away: what an opportunity to invest in your son! And how much sweeter will be the reunion when your wife returns. God bless you!
Monday, July 28, 2008
HOW I SPENT MY WEEKEND
Funny story...
Well, not funny really, more like a tale born out of deep tragedy and personal pain that may possibly have good results in the end.
Whatever.
There is a room in our church that has been set aside as the "C.E. Office" It is an office in name only. No one uses it as an office. It probably resembles more of a storage center. When our talented painter created the fantastic bucolic mural that adorns our breezeway, she used the C.E. office door as the horse barn door (complete with horse). "Barn" is a good description. Over the years, I have cleaned and straightened and organized, with limited results. Either some stuff gets out of place, or I don't finish the task, or more stuff gets stuffed in there. For example, when I was told that the tape library archives had to be moved or disposed of, I put them in the C.E. office. A rather large storage cabinent was slated for removal, so all the items in it were moved to the C.E. office. And on it goes. The result is no place to walk or move.
Fast forward: Vacation Bible School is fast approaching. We needed some sturdy, industrail looking shelves to put on the stage for our set. Hey, let's get the ones out of the C.E. office! No problem, except for the fact that the shelves are packed full and there are two or three solid layers of boxes, items, and debris. So I set up two long tables in the hallway and engaged in the task of clearing the area in front and around the two shelves and then clearing the shelves themselves. After an hour or two of work, the shelves were free. I navigated them out of the still overwhelmingly cluttered office/barn/storage closet and we used them for our stage set for VBS. And since all the stuff couldn't sit in the hallway all week, I shoved it all back in the "office."
That's when I had a brain storm. After VBS was over, I had to get the shelves back in the C.E. office. That meant I had to clear out the stuff I had just put back in. Soooo...why not just empty everything out and do a massive sorting and cleaning project, putting things back bit by bit? So on Friday, I told our Craft Director (who was using the sizeable youth room that sits next to the C.E. Office) to leave her craft tables up. My plan was to whip through all this stuff on Saturday, leaving a lean, mean children's ministry office machine!
Whatever.
Understand, that VBS is a physically demanding week. Since it was in the evening, it made for a week of very long days. I slept in on Saturday, but I knew I had to get started. So Saturday morning, I headed to the church and began unloading items onto the tables in the youth room. It took all morning and part of the afternoon just to get the stuff out of the office. I dusted and vacuumed (so that's what the floor looks like!) and marvelled at just how big the C.E. office actually was. I put the shelves back in the room, took a late lunch break, and began the task of purging the "stuff." My criteria was simple: unless it had clear historic value, was irreplaceable, or would likely be used in the future, out it would go. This wasn't easy, as I subscribe to the "this might come in handy one day" school of hoardng. But I determined to be brutal and reduce years of accumluation to a manageable size.
But as daylight turned to darkness, the piles had not shrunk that much. I headed home at about 11 p.m., in order to finish my final prep for Sunday morning.
The Sunday Morning activities went well. The youth group was very understanding and forgiving of the mess in their room, especially when I mentioned I could get them donuts. I took my wife to lunch, came home, changed clothes, and returned to the church. My gaze was weary, but steady. My determination was strained, but still strong. My organizational skills were peaked. I threw things away that some people, if they knew about it, would hang me in effigy. I faltered a couple of times, the bone crushing weariness and fatigue catching up with me. But finally, about 9:30 p.m., I put the last thing away, cleaned up the youth room, and went home.
Now to be honest, the project is not done yet. I have two boxes labeled "to be sorted." I have not touched the filing cabinent, nor the files full of older curriculum. But compared to how it was, it is much, much, much better.
So why did I spend so much time on this project when I should have been at home resting and recouperating frm VBS? Three reasons:
Yeah, whatever!
Well, not funny really, more like a tale born out of deep tragedy and personal pain that may possibly have good results in the end.
Whatever.
There is a room in our church that has been set aside as the "C.E. Office" It is an office in name only. No one uses it as an office. It probably resembles more of a storage center. When our talented painter created the fantastic bucolic mural that adorns our breezeway, she used the C.E. office door as the horse barn door (complete with horse). "Barn" is a good description. Over the years, I have cleaned and straightened and organized, with limited results. Either some stuff gets out of place, or I don't finish the task, or more stuff gets stuffed in there. For example, when I was told that the tape library archives had to be moved or disposed of, I put them in the C.E. office. A rather large storage cabinent was slated for removal, so all the items in it were moved to the C.E. office. And on it goes. The result is no place to walk or move.
Fast forward: Vacation Bible School is fast approaching. We needed some sturdy, industrail looking shelves to put on the stage for our set. Hey, let's get the ones out of the C.E. office! No problem, except for the fact that the shelves are packed full and there are two or three solid layers of boxes, items, and debris. So I set up two long tables in the hallway and engaged in the task of clearing the area in front and around the two shelves and then clearing the shelves themselves. After an hour or two of work, the shelves were free. I navigated them out of the still overwhelmingly cluttered office/barn/storage closet and we used them for our stage set for VBS. And since all the stuff couldn't sit in the hallway all week, I shoved it all back in the "office."
That's when I had a brain storm. After VBS was over, I had to get the shelves back in the C.E. office. That meant I had to clear out the stuff I had just put back in. Soooo...why not just empty everything out and do a massive sorting and cleaning project, putting things back bit by bit? So on Friday, I told our Craft Director (who was using the sizeable youth room that sits next to the C.E. Office) to leave her craft tables up. My plan was to whip through all this stuff on Saturday, leaving a lean, mean children's ministry office machine!
Whatever.
Understand, that VBS is a physically demanding week. Since it was in the evening, it made for a week of very long days. I slept in on Saturday, but I knew I had to get started. So Saturday morning, I headed to the church and began unloading items onto the tables in the youth room. It took all morning and part of the afternoon just to get the stuff out of the office. I dusted and vacuumed (so that's what the floor looks like!) and marvelled at just how big the C.E. office actually was. I put the shelves back in the room, took a late lunch break, and began the task of purging the "stuff." My criteria was simple: unless it had clear historic value, was irreplaceable, or would likely be used in the future, out it would go. This wasn't easy, as I subscribe to the "this might come in handy one day" school of hoardng. But I determined to be brutal and reduce years of accumluation to a manageable size.
But as daylight turned to darkness, the piles had not shrunk that much. I headed home at about 11 p.m., in order to finish my final prep for Sunday morning.
The Sunday Morning activities went well. The youth group was very understanding and forgiving of the mess in their room, especially when I mentioned I could get them donuts. I took my wife to lunch, came home, changed clothes, and returned to the church. My gaze was weary, but steady. My determination was strained, but still strong. My organizational skills were peaked. I threw things away that some people, if they knew about it, would hang me in effigy. I faltered a couple of times, the bone crushing weariness and fatigue catching up with me. But finally, about 9:30 p.m., I put the last thing away, cleaned up the youth room, and went home.
Now to be honest, the project is not done yet. I have two boxes labeled "to be sorted." I have not touched the filing cabinent, nor the files full of older curriculum. But compared to how it was, it is much, much, much better.
So why did I spend so much time on this project when I should have been at home resting and recouperating frm VBS? Three reasons:
- It will help me get better organized.
- There is more to me than a messy, cluttered office.
- Should I be definitely removed from children's ministries, I want my successor to have better.
Yeah, whatever!
VBS LOG 2: The Week is Over
Another Vacation Bible School is in the books. All the months of planning, preparation, thought, and constant prayer come down to one week of insanity! But what an incredible week it was! 124 kids walked through the door during the week, with an average nightly attendance of 97. Our missions project (as in years' past) was Kidzana Ministries, with the kids raising approximately $75.Were there bumps in the road? Absolutely. I already posted an entry about what has become known as the "hashbrown incident." There were technical difficulties along the way. And, of course, there were the inevitable challenges that arise from dozens of personalities being brought together in one place for the week. As a friend of mine likes to say, "I heard so much whining, crying, complaining, and temper tantrums...and the kids had behavior issues too!"
But all the statistics available, all the challenges along the way, and all the physical (and yes, to be honest, emotional) weariness incurred throughout the week were offset by three very important things:
1. I shared this in a previous post, but it bears repeating: The Word of God was proclaimed and the kids had fun! Oh yeah!
2. So many adults and teens came together just to focus on children. Wow...that just warms my heart every time I think about it.
3. At one of the stations, a girl stayed afterward and asked about how to make Jesus her forever friend. The station leader, holding back tears, shared the gospel and led her into a profession of faith. All the statistics, compliments, and fun are nothing compared to the rejoicing in heaven.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
VBS LOG: KIDS LOVE ME, FROZEN POTATOES FEAR ME!
Our first night of Vacation Bible School went off without a hitch.
Except for everything that went wrong.
Actually, after several years of directing this summer phenomenon known as VBS, I have learned to not only expect the unexpected, but to keep everything in its proper perspective. That proper perspective is as follows: the kids had fun and the Word of God was proclaimed. Score! It was a good night!
But I feel a special burden tonight to unload a deep secret from my first night at VBS. You see, during our closing program, we were to do a special object lesson in which dry ice is placed in the water, it churns and bubbles, and then the leader (that's me!) creates a film of soap over the top of the bowl. The fog from the bowl expands the film bubble, until it bursts over, symbolizing our thankfulness (okay, you Power Lab directors, you're with me on this!). The instructions made it look cool. The video clips made it look cool. It looked cool. I couldn't wait.
Unfortunately, due to various and assorted challenges, I was unable to get the dry ice until the afternoon before VBS. I determined I was going to practice this experiment, so that I would get the feel for it before doing it in front of assorted kids and volunteers. But the Monday of VBS is always a bit like running a Nascar race with a tricycle...you're pedaling as hard and as fast as you can, but your little bell just won't tell the other drivers to get out of the way (VBS directors, can I get a witness...?) Anyway, my rehearsal time got eaten away with a myriad of unforeseen (or foreseen, but not addressed) challenges.
Finally, with approximatley 40 minutes to go, I found my practice window. But there were still challenges. The glass bowl had disappeared. I hunted, asked around, and eventually located it. I knew I would have to fill the bowls with pitchers from the nearest sink. Hey...the pitchers were too big to fit under the faucet of the nearest sink (ding..ding..move out of my way, Gordon!).
I finally had all my ingredients. My wife had put the dry ice in the church freezer. The dry ice was in brown wrappers. I took the ice chest to the kitchen, put on the safety gloves, and took the four very cold, brown-wrapped packages out of the freezer, and returned to practice the experiment. Only 20 minutes to go.
I cut the bags open and emptied the shaved dry ice into the freezer. I then carefully picked up a big hunk of the shaved dry ice (which had fused together in a lump) and I dumped it in the water, waiting for the bubbling, churning effect to start.
At this point, I should let everyone know that, while I have seen the foggy, churning effect from dry ice, I have never actually handled dry ice. I knew what it was supposed to do, but I did not really know how long it was supposed to take to do it. I also did not know that dry ice could come in shaved form, but since regular ice could be shaved, I didn't give it a second thought.
So why was this taking so long?
The shaved dry ice sat there in the water. I saw a tiny bubble or two make its way to the surface, but nothing like the cascading white fog I was expecting. Yup, the shaved dry ice sat in the bowl looking a lot like......
Hashbrowns.
Shredded, frozen (but thawing), hash browns. White, soggy hash browns. I poked at them with my finger, half hoping it was indeed shaved dry ice (in which case the flesh on my finger would rip apart from the intense cold of the carbon dioxide). But no...alas. It was, in no way, shape, or form dry ice. It was hashbrowns (ding..ding..splat!).
I quickly dumped the bowl, cleaned up my mess, and got ready for when the kids arrived. I found the other brown package in the church freezer and it contained the chunks of dry ice. I did the experment live with no rehearsal. The kids ooohed and aaahed as the water bubbled, churned, and fogged over. But try as I might, I could not get the film to stick over the bowl. Sorry, Group Publishing, I know it said to be patient and keep trying, but the kids and volunteers were threatening a boycott, so I just tied in the bubbling and churning and how our lives should be marked by overflowing gratitude (yes, Teacher Tim, even when experiments go wrong).
As kids were leaving, I almost thought I heard some of the children saying how much they liked VBS so far. One of them said, "I know Teacher Tim tried his best on the experiment. I think he's just way too hard on himself. There's no way I could get angry with him over this."
"Yeah" said the other. "Hey, by the way, are you going to Kid's Camp in a couple of weeks? There's lots of fun and good food. I'm especially looking forward to the breakfast: eggs, bacon, and lots of yummy hash browns!"
Except for everything that went wrong.
Actually, after several years of directing this summer phenomenon known as VBS, I have learned to not only expect the unexpected, but to keep everything in its proper perspective. That proper perspective is as follows: the kids had fun and the Word of God was proclaimed. Score! It was a good night!
But I feel a special burden tonight to unload a deep secret from my first night at VBS. You see, during our closing program, we were to do a special object lesson in which dry ice is placed in the water, it churns and bubbles, and then the leader (that's me!) creates a film of soap over the top of the bowl. The fog from the bowl expands the film bubble, until it bursts over, symbolizing our thankfulness (okay, you Power Lab directors, you're with me on this!). The instructions made it look cool. The video clips made it look cool. It looked cool. I couldn't wait.
Unfortunately, due to various and assorted challenges, I was unable to get the dry ice until the afternoon before VBS. I determined I was going to practice this experiment, so that I would get the feel for it before doing it in front of assorted kids and volunteers. But the Monday of VBS is always a bit like running a Nascar race with a tricycle...you're pedaling as hard and as fast as you can, but your little bell just won't tell the other drivers to get out of the way (VBS directors, can I get a witness...?) Anyway, my rehearsal time got eaten away with a myriad of unforeseen (or foreseen, but not addressed) challenges.
Finally, with approximatley 40 minutes to go, I found my practice window. But there were still challenges. The glass bowl had disappeared. I hunted, asked around, and eventually located it. I knew I would have to fill the bowls with pitchers from the nearest sink. Hey...the pitchers were too big to fit under the faucet of the nearest sink (ding..ding..move out of my way, Gordon!).
I finally had all my ingredients. My wife had put the dry ice in the church freezer. The dry ice was in brown wrappers. I took the ice chest to the kitchen, put on the safety gloves, and took the four very cold, brown-wrapped packages out of the freezer, and returned to practice the experiment. Only 20 minutes to go.
I cut the bags open and emptied the shaved dry ice into the freezer. I then carefully picked up a big hunk of the shaved dry ice (which had fused together in a lump) and I dumped it in the water, waiting for the bubbling, churning effect to start.
At this point, I should let everyone know that, while I have seen the foggy, churning effect from dry ice, I have never actually handled dry ice. I knew what it was supposed to do, but I did not really know how long it was supposed to take to do it. I also did not know that dry ice could come in shaved form, but since regular ice could be shaved, I didn't give it a second thought.
So why was this taking so long?
The shaved dry ice sat there in the water. I saw a tiny bubble or two make its way to the surface, but nothing like the cascading white fog I was expecting. Yup, the shaved dry ice sat in the bowl looking a lot like......
Hashbrowns.
Shredded, frozen (but thawing), hash browns. White, soggy hash browns. I poked at them with my finger, half hoping it was indeed shaved dry ice (in which case the flesh on my finger would rip apart from the intense cold of the carbon dioxide). But no...alas. It was, in no way, shape, or form dry ice. It was hashbrowns (ding..ding..splat!).
I quickly dumped the bowl, cleaned up my mess, and got ready for when the kids arrived. I found the other brown package in the church freezer and it contained the chunks of dry ice. I did the experment live with no rehearsal. The kids ooohed and aaahed as the water bubbled, churned, and fogged over. But try as I might, I could not get the film to stick over the bowl. Sorry, Group Publishing, I know it said to be patient and keep trying, but the kids and volunteers were threatening a boycott, so I just tied in the bubbling and churning and how our lives should be marked by overflowing gratitude (yes, Teacher Tim, even when experiments go wrong).
As kids were leaving, I almost thought I heard some of the children saying how much they liked VBS so far. One of them said, "I know Teacher Tim tried his best on the experiment. I think he's just way too hard on himself. There's no way I could get angry with him over this."
"Yeah" said the other. "Hey, by the way, are you going to Kid's Camp in a couple of weeks? There's lots of fun and good food. I'm especially looking forward to the breakfast: eggs, bacon, and lots of yummy hash browns!"
Sunday, July 20, 2008
LAST MINUTE THOUGHTS BEFORE VBS
Today was set-up day for Vacation Bible School at our church. All the weeks and months of preparation and planning come down to this. A lot of us returned to the church after lunch and stayed until the evening hours transforming our building into the Power Lab, dealing with last minute questions and orientations, and enjoying pizza! So, needless to say, I'm tired and ready for bed. But I wanted to share some random thoughts before going to sleep.
- Every year, I marvel at how hard it is to get volunteers, but then how the Lord brings a whole herd of them at the last minute.
- I continue to be impressed by the creativity and ingenuity of our team members in decorating and problem solving.
- We have some 14 year olds serving. We also have some 70's and 80's serving. What a neat mix!
- My daughter may very well have a black eye from a stack of folding tables falling on her this evening. She says she's going to wear an eye patch and warn people to wear protective eye gear before doing scientific experiments.
- I needed a couple of bookshelves from the C.E. office/storage room/catch-all. I never realized just how much stuff lay in front and upon those shelves. The upside is, I will finally be in a position to clean the room.
- After years of service, my VBS assistant was unable to serve this year. If my VBS assistant is reading this: you are loved and appreciated....and I don't think everyone has fully comprehended just how important you have been. I have missed you...and you are in my prayers.
- My wife correctly guessed the number of pizzas we would need for dinner tonight. How does she do that?
- EquippingKids.com is, in my humble opinion, one of the best children's ministry distributors on the planet.
- The Dollar Store is the children's worker's friend.
- I'm tired, I'm sore, I'm worn out. And after much thought, I have decided that I still love VBS
Saturday, July 19, 2008
CAMPING AT WHISKEY SPRINGS
Last weekend, we finally got to take the first camping trip of the summer. Our destination was Whiskey Springs, a few miles past the charming town of Butte Falls. We had a few adventures during the trip, like a family emergency that required us to rush back home the second night. When we returned the next day, we had the privilege of helping a couple whose ride out of the campsite had "stood them up." We learned that he was a Desert Storm vet who got injured jumping out of a plane. We knew some of the same people...and we got to find out some of their church background as well.
I enjoy camping. Not only are there tall trees, fresh air, and gorgeous scenery, but it's an opportunity for me to do absolutely nothing! There are no demands on my time, no big decisions to be made, and no phones (nope, I still do not own a cell phone...and the signal is poor anyway!) I bring my laptop for writing, but there's no internet. I read, I walk, I read, I study, I walk, I attempt to grill burgers, and, oh yes, I read. And study. And think. And sleep. And plan. And dream.
The road to Whiskey Springs 
I enjoy camping. Not only are there tall trees, fresh air, and gorgeous scenery, but it's an opportunity for me to do absolutely nothing! There are no demands on my time, no big decisions to be made, and no phones (nope, I still do not own a cell phone...and the signal is poor anyway!) I bring my laptop for writing, but there's no internet. I read, I walk, I read, I study, I walk, I attempt to grill burgers, and, oh yes, I read. And study. And think. And sleep. And plan. And dream.
The road to Whiskey SpringsBridges cross little water streams along the hiking trail
Looking down at the creek
What secrets lurk below the pond? The beavers know! If you walk out here at early dawn or dusk, you may see a beaver or two busy in the pond.
A less than welcome tent guest (for the record, I strongly dislike spiders. However, they also fascinate me...at a distance. This is as close as I will get without a shoe or heavy, blunt object).
Our family dog contemplates the nature of...well, nature.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
GO POWER
I was watching part of documentary one afternoon about the space program. Archival footage showed the classic mission control room of countless space missions. Shortly before the final countdown, the head honcho begins checking with each and every station with one simple question: "go or no go?" One by one, the station leaders call out "go," signifying that their area is functioning and ready for the launch. But should a leader say "no go," then the final countdown is halted. Fascinating stuff.
In approximately one and a half weeks, our church will be launching its annual Vacation Bible School. And tonight, at our weekly VBS meeting, I shared that we are nearing the final countdown and I needed a "go or no go" from everyone involved.
Of course, I'm not saying that we will scrub VBS if someone says "no go." But I did take the liberty of applying this dramatic scenario two ways:
1. It is time for each individual to say "go" or "no go" regarding their respective missions. Like hundreds of VBS directors through history and across the country, I find a lot of commitment takes the form of, "uhhh...I dunno", "maybe," or "let me think about it." But it is now time for each station leader, each volunteer, each support person to sign on the dotted line and say, "yes...I'm a GO." And I need to reaffirm myself as well. As I shared in a previous post, I've struggled somewhat with VBS this year. But now is time for me to step up, to go the distance, to shoot for the net, to hit the ball outta the park, to go for the middle of the uprights, to....well, you get the picture. I've always been on board for Vacation Bible School. But now is the time to loudly shout, "GO"
2. It is time to act as though we were in the final countdown. As I was reading some forum boards related to our VBS, I came across one discouraged poster whose whole organizational system caused dely after delay in their planning. They lamented that they only had a month left to order supplies, recruit, and get the program going. The responses varied, but many of them had the same basic message: "you have a month left? PRAISE THE LORD!" The church with 30 days until VBS has to do the same thing as the church with 30 weeks. They just have to focus and stick to the basics. God brings the harvest, God controls the results.
We've got a week and a half! PRAISE THE LORD! Our original target date would have placed us in the middle of VBS this week...and then what? Hey...we've got another week and a half! Time to set aside distractions and make every day count. I'm talking back at myself at this point, but also to anyone else who is struggling with similar situations.
Vacation Bible School is going to be great. Kids will hear the gospel and experience a fun-filled Christian environment. Songs, games, snacks, stories, and surprises! I can hardly wait.
GO FOR LAUNCH.
FINAL COUNDOWN HAS BEGUN.........
Friday, July 04, 2008
MUSINGS ABOUT THE 4TH OF JULY
Happy Independence Day!
If you haven't been to a "small town" 4th of July celebration, you don't know what you're missing. Even though our city is one of the fastest growing cities in the state, it has always maintained its charm and friendliness when it comes to things like the 4th. I started the day early with the community breakfast: eggs, ham, and pancakes. But it's not about the food, it's the faces: familiar and not-so-familiar folks coming in to share a meal, joke around, and get started on the day's events.
The day began overcast (it rained last night). It provided some cooler weather as we sat and waited for the parade. And then, right before the parade was to begin, the sun broke through. It was especially nice to have the clear skies, after spending the week choking on smoke from the wildfires in northern California. The parade was good, with all the elements a "small town" parade should have: fire trucks, vintage cars, horses, floats, and the corny jokes from the MC's. As the parade begins (officially, it starts at the review stand, but in actuality, it begins further up the street), the honor gaurd stops and everyone rises for the National Anthem. It is an incredibly moving thing to see hundreds of people on both sides of the streets stand in absolute silence as the flag is presented.
We wandered the many booths and shook hands with people for awhile. Then it was off to home, to relax a bit, and then grill some burgers for dinner.
About dinner time, I was starting to feel a headache coming on, so I bowed out of the fireworks show at the stadium. But it's a show that can be seen and heard throughout the city. One of the highlights is at "halftime" with "Skydiver Bingo." Throughout the day, people buy paper plates and put their names on them. At halftime, the plates are scattered all over the football field. A local skydiving club then sends skydivers over the stadium. It is an awesome thing to be staring up into the dark night sky and suddenly see a figure gliding in almost as if on one giant wing. He lands and scoops up a paper plate. The three winners get various cash prizes. And in one of the most exciting developments of the evening, my oldest daughter won a prize! Whoo hoo...dinner's on her!
For whatever reason, the pictures I thought I took today were non-existent. So, you'll have to settle for a thousand words instead of pictures. But believe me, the 4th of July in "small town" America is worth it.
Random thoughts from one tired puppy dog!
PS One more addition: One of the local newspapers took some parade pictures and posted it on their gallery. You can see them here. (let me know if this worked...I wasn't quite sure)
ADDITIONAL NOTE: I have fixed the link to show the 2008 pictures. Thanks to my anonymous commentator who noticed and brought it to my attention!
If you haven't been to a "small town" 4th of July celebration, you don't know what you're missing. Even though our city is one of the fastest growing cities in the state, it has always maintained its charm and friendliness when it comes to things like the 4th. I started the day early with the community breakfast: eggs, ham, and pancakes. But it's not about the food, it's the faces: familiar and not-so-familiar folks coming in to share a meal, joke around, and get started on the day's events.
The day began overcast (it rained last night). It provided some cooler weather as we sat and waited for the parade. And then, right before the parade was to begin, the sun broke through. It was especially nice to have the clear skies, after spending the week choking on smoke from the wildfires in northern California. The parade was good, with all the elements a "small town" parade should have: fire trucks, vintage cars, horses, floats, and the corny jokes from the MC's. As the parade begins (officially, it starts at the review stand, but in actuality, it begins further up the street), the honor gaurd stops and everyone rises for the National Anthem. It is an incredibly moving thing to see hundreds of people on both sides of the streets stand in absolute silence as the flag is presented.
We wandered the many booths and shook hands with people for awhile. Then it was off to home, to relax a bit, and then grill some burgers for dinner.
About dinner time, I was starting to feel a headache coming on, so I bowed out of the fireworks show at the stadium. But it's a show that can be seen and heard throughout the city. One of the highlights is at "halftime" with "Skydiver Bingo." Throughout the day, people buy paper plates and put their names on them. At halftime, the plates are scattered all over the football field. A local skydiving club then sends skydivers over the stadium. It is an awesome thing to be staring up into the dark night sky and suddenly see a figure gliding in almost as if on one giant wing. He lands and scoops up a paper plate. The three winners get various cash prizes. And in one of the most exciting developments of the evening, my oldest daughter won a prize! Whoo hoo...dinner's on her!
For whatever reason, the pictures I thought I took today were non-existent. So, you'll have to settle for a thousand words instead of pictures. But believe me, the 4th of July in "small town" America is worth it.
Random thoughts from one tired puppy dog!
PS One more addition: One of the local newspapers took some parade pictures and posted it on their gallery. You can see them here. (let me know if this worked...I wasn't quite sure)
ADDITIONAL NOTE: I have fixed the link to show the 2008 pictures. Thanks to my anonymous commentator who noticed and brought it to my attention!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
TIME TO CHANGE: A Brief Introduction
Okay, time to get serious. I intended to write a blog about changes, choices, and getting what I want. As I stand at some heavy duty crossroads in my life, I am deciding to make some changes. Some will be gradual, some will be immediate, but all will have one thing in common: they will start with the simple decision to do it.
One day soon I will write more about these changes, but at this moment, I'm bumping up against a deadline. Why not just post when I have more time? I guess by introducing the subject now, it not only leaves the readers in suspense, but it also reminds me to finish writing it!
So stay tuned and keep reading.
One day soon I will write more about these changes, but at this moment, I'm bumping up against a deadline. Why not just post when I have more time? I guess by introducing the subject now, it not only leaves the readers in suspense, but it also reminds me to finish writing it!
So stay tuned and keep reading.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
MY PICK FOR THE BEST LOW-TECH PERSONAL ORGANIZATIONAL DEVICE
One of the greatest inventions of our modern age is the yellow note pad. Don't get me wrong...I have a Palm Pilot, which has delivered me from some of my random sticky notes that hang everywhere and which helps me keep track of stuff I would otherwise forget. It took a while for me to get to the Palm Pilot stage, but now I can't picture not having it.
But there's something about writing on a yellow pad that is somewhat cleansing to the mind. It's like thoughts and ideas flow from my overcrowded cranium, down my arm, and out the tip of my pen. It's not like holding a stylus and rapidly tap-tap-taping on a miniature keyboard. Nor is it like working on a PC. I can stop and deftly toss the pad on the table to collect my next wave of thoughts or grab a cup of joe or whatever--you can't do that with a laptop! I can pick the pad up and carry it around, whack a spider on the wall, jot a note while standing, and even wave it in my face to cool off. And when I'm done, the yellow pad is covered with an intricate pattern of heiroglyphics, code words, and internal communiques (aka doodles, abbreviations, and notes to self!) that make me feel like I've actually accomplished something.
I was feeling a little overwhelmed by this year's VBS. I won't lay out all the reasons, just that I didn't accomplish some things that were under my control and couldn't control some things that weren't. We are in "crunch time" with less than a month to go...and I was feeling like a dishwasher on the Titanic: plates up to here, water up to there, and wondering which "sink" should be my focus: the noun or the verb!
But by God's grace, I had the morning off from daycare. So I got up at my usual time, went to the church at my usual time, and went into the church library. I pulled out a yellow pad, prayed for wisdom, and started jotting down notes. Wow...what a morning! Sure, I could have plotted everything on my Palm Pilot (and much of what I did will be added to my P.P. calendar and task lists). But I wanted to write as quickly or as slowly as I wanted. I scribbled a reminder on the side and underlined it with heavy, bold strokes, followed by emphatic exclamation points (three, because this was really important!). I drew a line from one point to another clear across the page, because they had an element in common (which I wrote along the line). I drew diagrams and circled items. No, there was no logical consistency to any of it...a circled item probably carries the same weight as an underlined item.
When it was done, I had clarity about VBS. I spent some more time in prayer, asking the Lord to help me and my team through "crunch time."
So if you're feeling overwhelmed, or you have a big decision to make, or you're still wondering, "She loves me, she loves me not, she loves me.....", I highly recommend finding a quiet spot, pulling out a fresh yellow note pad, and starting to write. :-)
But there's something about writing on a yellow pad that is somewhat cleansing to the mind. It's like thoughts and ideas flow from my overcrowded cranium, down my arm, and out the tip of my pen. It's not like holding a stylus and rapidly tap-tap-taping on a miniature keyboard. Nor is it like working on a PC. I can stop and deftly toss the pad on the table to collect my next wave of thoughts or grab a cup of joe or whatever--you can't do that with a laptop! I can pick the pad up and carry it around, whack a spider on the wall, jot a note while standing, and even wave it in my face to cool off. And when I'm done, the yellow pad is covered with an intricate pattern of heiroglyphics, code words, and internal communiques (aka doodles, abbreviations, and notes to self!) that make me feel like I've actually accomplished something.
I was feeling a little overwhelmed by this year's VBS. I won't lay out all the reasons, just that I didn't accomplish some things that were under my control and couldn't control some things that weren't. We are in "crunch time" with less than a month to go...and I was feeling like a dishwasher on the Titanic: plates up to here, water up to there, and wondering which "sink" should be my focus: the noun or the verb!
But by God's grace, I had the morning off from daycare. So I got up at my usual time, went to the church at my usual time, and went into the church library. I pulled out a yellow pad, prayed for wisdom, and started jotting down notes. Wow...what a morning! Sure, I could have plotted everything on my Palm Pilot (and much of what I did will be added to my P.P. calendar and task lists). But I wanted to write as quickly or as slowly as I wanted. I scribbled a reminder on the side and underlined it with heavy, bold strokes, followed by emphatic exclamation points (three, because this was really important!). I drew a line from one point to another clear across the page, because they had an element in common (which I wrote along the line). I drew diagrams and circled items. No, there was no logical consistency to any of it...a circled item probably carries the same weight as an underlined item.
When it was done, I had clarity about VBS. I spent some more time in prayer, asking the Lord to help me and my team through "crunch time."
So if you're feeling overwhelmed, or you have a big decision to make, or you're still wondering, "She loves me, she loves me not, she loves me.....", I highly recommend finding a quiet spot, pulling out a fresh yellow note pad, and starting to write. :-)
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
A PERSONAL MILESTONE (random musings)
Today is the 25th anniversary of my ordination to the ministry.
Granted, it's not the stuff of ticker-tape parades or silver anniversary cakes. Indeed, this thing called "ordination" is extremely humbling and very personal. There was a council consisting of pastors and church leaders. There was a ceremony a couple of weeks later. And as my pastor told me at the time, they did not ordain me; rather, God had already ordained me and they were just agreeing with His decision. Any ministry success is all His doing. And when I've blown it...oh boy.... Why someone came up with the description "reverend" is beyond me. Waaayyy beyond me. So why commemorate the date at all?
I guess because it is so personal, so significant, and has been responsible for a lot the directions I've bounced over the last quarter century, it's only natural to look back. When I pulled out some old pictures of the ordination service and subsequent churches, I can't believe I used to be that young. And that skinny. And with that much hair. I had dreams and plans and a solid sense of what I wanted to do and be as this newly ordained servant of God. And in tiny print at the bottom of the screen of my imagination were the words, "The dreams and plans of Tim may not neccesarily be those of the Creator of the universe."
So where have I been the last 25 years? I've been an associate minister in southern California. I've been a senior pastor in two churches in Colorado. I was promoted to children's ministry in Oregon (but not as staff, which you'll see as you keep reading). I still teach regularly, preach occaisionally, do a wedding or funeral or two. And there have also been the half-dozen "tent making" jobs I've had either between or during ministries ("tent making" referring to the Apostle Paul, who supported himself in the ministry by making tents).
I honestly can say that I know less than I did 25 years ago. Oh, I'm probably even more dogmatic on a lot of matters of faith and practice, but I'm more picky about the hills I climb and the battles I fight. I realize that I don't have all the answers to every single theological, sociological, political issue facing the church today. Most of my opinions are well researched and carefully thought out, but they are still my opinions. After all these years, I found I could be (gulp) mistaken on some things.
As to the future...I honestly don't know. Of the two paid positions I have at the church, neither is what is called "vocational ministry." The thing I consider my main ministry...children's ministry (not counting the daycare center where I work)...is strictly an appointed volunteer work. Don't get me wrong...I love everything I do (especially children's ministry) and I'm grateful to "minister" in that way. But I have to be totally honest: what I dreamed and envisioned as the elders laid hands on me back in 1983 bears little resemblance to what I am experiencing now.
So am I depressed? No. Maybe a tad melencholy, but any kind of retrospect will produce that. I know what I know what I know, and that is I have an awesome and amazing God Who loves me with an everlasting love and has an intricate plan for my life that transcends anything I could ever imagine. I can wish the road had been different, but I am so incredibly grateful about Who I traveled it with.
Here's to the next 25 years of "ordained" ministry, whatever form it takes.
Granted, it's not the stuff of ticker-tape parades or silver anniversary cakes. Indeed, this thing called "ordination" is extremely humbling and very personal. There was a council consisting of pastors and church leaders. There was a ceremony a couple of weeks later. And as my pastor told me at the time, they did not ordain me; rather, God had already ordained me and they were just agreeing with His decision. Any ministry success is all His doing. And when I've blown it...oh boy.... Why someone came up with the description "reverend" is beyond me. Waaayyy beyond me. So why commemorate the date at all?
I guess because it is so personal, so significant, and has been responsible for a lot the directions I've bounced over the last quarter century, it's only natural to look back. When I pulled out some old pictures of the ordination service and subsequent churches, I can't believe I used to be that young. And that skinny. And with that much hair. I had dreams and plans and a solid sense of what I wanted to do and be as this newly ordained servant of God. And in tiny print at the bottom of the screen of my imagination were the words, "The dreams and plans of Tim may not neccesarily be those of the Creator of the universe."
So where have I been the last 25 years? I've been an associate minister in southern California. I've been a senior pastor in two churches in Colorado. I was promoted to children's ministry in Oregon (but not as staff, which you'll see as you keep reading). I still teach regularly, preach occaisionally, do a wedding or funeral or two. And there have also been the half-dozen "tent making" jobs I've had either between or during ministries ("tent making" referring to the Apostle Paul, who supported himself in the ministry by making tents).
I honestly can say that I know less than I did 25 years ago. Oh, I'm probably even more dogmatic on a lot of matters of faith and practice, but I'm more picky about the hills I climb and the battles I fight. I realize that I don't have all the answers to every single theological, sociological, political issue facing the church today. Most of my opinions are well researched and carefully thought out, but they are still my opinions. After all these years, I found I could be (gulp) mistaken on some things.
As to the future...I honestly don't know. Of the two paid positions I have at the church, neither is what is called "vocational ministry." The thing I consider my main ministry...children's ministry (not counting the daycare center where I work)...is strictly an appointed volunteer work. Don't get me wrong...I love everything I do (especially children's ministry) and I'm grateful to "minister" in that way. But I have to be totally honest: what I dreamed and envisioned as the elders laid hands on me back in 1983 bears little resemblance to what I am experiencing now.
So am I depressed? No. Maybe a tad melencholy, but any kind of retrospect will produce that. I know what I know what I know, and that is I have an awesome and amazing God Who loves me with an everlasting love and has an intricate plan for my life that transcends anything I could ever imagine. I can wish the road had been different, but I am so incredibly grateful about Who I traveled it with.
Here's to the next 25 years of "ordained" ministry, whatever form it takes.
Monday, June 16, 2008
POP AND SIZZLE
I love worshipping with kids. I love worshipping with kids, even when it appears that worship is the furthest thing from their minds. I love worshipping with kids, even when they verbally confirm that worship is the furthest things from their minds with such time-honored phrases as "I'm bored," "When is this over?" and "Can we play with the basketball set again?" I love worshipping with kids, even when they sit with crossed arms and sour expressions that say, "Engage me...I dare you. Go ahead, make my millennium!"
Okay, I love worshipping with kids and all of the above is true. HOWEVER...honest reality check here: I do not always do the dance of joy when some of my kids are clearly not "into it." Sometimes I internally react with a heavy sigh. Other times, I go home and weep, praying for and wanting these young children to have the same sense of wonder and excitement as they sing to and about the Lord. And sometimes, I just throw my arms up and wonder how come the parents didn't teach their kids how to behave better in church (followed by the mandatory kicking of myself for having such thoughts).
And I'm reasonably sure I'm not alone in these feelings.
That's why God gave us Sundays where everything pops! This last Sunday (which happened to be Father's Day), the singing and worship were incredible. The majority of kids were singing loudly, with an unbridled, uninhibited enthusiasm. And when one of the kids asked if we could pray for his toe, we had an unscheduled time of prayer requests, with different kids praying for each request. It was so incredibly awesome. One of our KidServants and I kept exchanging grins during the whole thing.
Kids are kids....and yes, the aimless chatter, and distractions, and arm-crossing will be there to some extent. But on this Sunday, it's like God was unveiling the real heart of the children...the heart that wants to have fun and enjoy God. Yeah, I love worshipping with kids, whether they look engaged or not. But ever' now and again, it's nice to see things pop and sizzle.
Okay, I love worshipping with kids and all of the above is true. HOWEVER...honest reality check here: I do not always do the dance of joy when some of my kids are clearly not "into it." Sometimes I internally react with a heavy sigh. Other times, I go home and weep, praying for and wanting these young children to have the same sense of wonder and excitement as they sing to and about the Lord. And sometimes, I just throw my arms up and wonder how come the parents didn't teach their kids how to behave better in church (followed by the mandatory kicking of myself for having such thoughts).
And I'm reasonably sure I'm not alone in these feelings.
That's why God gave us Sundays where everything pops! This last Sunday (which happened to be Father's Day), the singing and worship were incredible. The majority of kids were singing loudly, with an unbridled, uninhibited enthusiasm. And when one of the kids asked if we could pray for his toe, we had an unscheduled time of prayer requests, with different kids praying for each request. It was so incredibly awesome. One of our KidServants and I kept exchanging grins during the whole thing.
Kids are kids....and yes, the aimless chatter, and distractions, and arm-crossing will be there to some extent. But on this Sunday, it's like God was unveiling the real heart of the children...the heart that wants to have fun and enjoy God. Yeah, I love worshipping with kids, whether they look engaged or not. But ever' now and again, it's nice to see things pop and sizzle.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
PROMOTION DAY
Promotion Sunday 2008 is in the books.
Attendance was low for various reasons...but the kids and KidServants were ready for action. 
The teenagers got into the action, forming a conga line to the song "Wild Ride." 
One of our promoted kids demonstrates her dance moves!
Every June, we promote certain children in our Sunday Morning Celebration to their new classes. It's a fairly simple ceremony: in one corner is one class, across from them is another class. The teacher of the first class introduces his/her kids, then sends the kids who are to be promoted across to the new class, where they are welcomed by the kids in that class. Then another class takes their place and the process repeats. Our middle school and high school groups also join in, with our 5th graders sliding up to the middle school, and the middle school grads moving up to the high school, and the graduating seniors being informally recognized.
Like I said, it's simple. Incredibly simple and short and sweet. So why do I always get a lump in my throat as I see child after child walk across the lawn to be greeted by their new peers? Is it because each promotion represents a validation of that all-important ministry in which we are engaged? Or maybe it's because I'm a sucker for ceremonies. I don't know. Maybe it's because of how the high school group welcomed the newcomers from the middle school group by surrounding them in a tight circle and praying over them. As I watched this, I knew that I wanted each of the young children that we minister to today to turn out like that when they get to be teens and beyond.
So, Promotion Day 2008 is now over....
.....now let the adventure continue.
Attendance was low for various reasons...but the kids and KidServants were ready for action.The teenagers got into the action, forming a conga line to the song "Wild Ride." One of our promoted kids demonstrates her dance moves!Tuesday, May 13, 2008
BRINGING UP THE NEXT GENERATION OF KIDSERVANTS
I love it when a thought, vision, or idea is shared by someone else.
Even when I can't find the someone else who shared it.
For the last couple of weeks, I've been thinking about our church and its children's program. I am currently serving only in the Sunday morning activities, but my dreams and passion are still in the broader umbrella of all our kids' programs (just waiting for some organizational changes that will enable me to function in that capacity). My thoughts turned toward our phenomenal volunteers, men and women who devote their Sunday mornings to helping kids know the Savior. Two of our KidServants (as we call them here) are physically challenged. And then there's a big bear of a grandpa who teaches a 3rd-5th grade class. There's a 20 year old young lady in college who leads an infant-toddler group. And a mix of mechanics, truck drivers, and administrators who tackle the awesome task of helping kids grow in their faith. It warms my heart to see these folks every week.
But one day, I asked the question: "what is the average age of all our KidServants on Sunday morning?" Aside from the 20 year old and another lady who is in her 30's, most of our group is 40+. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Physical appearance aside, these saints have energy to spare. In no way, shape, or form do I want to downplay the contribution of these men and women.
But I remember I first taught a 5th grade Sunday School class when I was in high school. My wife taught when she was in junior high. Even my oldest daughter led a group when she was still in school. In my adventures at Children's Pastors Conferences, I've met children's pastors, directors, and coordinators that look like they just graduated. And I found myself wondering: "where is the next generation in our children's program?"
And then I read a blog. One of many blogs I regularly read. And the writer talked about his dream and plan to start recruiting the next generation. His words clicked and resounded within my spirit. The only trouble is, in my haste, I failed to note which blog I was reading. Soooooo....if you recently wrote about recruiting the next generation, please know that your spirit bore witness with my spirit!
Meanwhile, I shared my thoughts with the elder who is over me. He got very excited about the possibilities. The thought of a younger team being implanted in ministry is thrilling. Again, we don't want to replace our current workers (unless they want to be replaced), but we do want to begin actively seeking responsible older teens and 20's to step up and begin assuming these rolls. Several of our ministries have already begun doing this (two kids who grew up in our Sunday School are now elders in the church!). It's time for children's ministries to do the same.
Even when I can't find the someone else who shared it.
For the last couple of weeks, I've been thinking about our church and its children's program. I am currently serving only in the Sunday morning activities, but my dreams and passion are still in the broader umbrella of all our kids' programs (just waiting for some organizational changes that will enable me to function in that capacity). My thoughts turned toward our phenomenal volunteers, men and women who devote their Sunday mornings to helping kids know the Savior. Two of our KidServants (as we call them here) are physically challenged. And then there's a big bear of a grandpa who teaches a 3rd-5th grade class. There's a 20 year old young lady in college who leads an infant-toddler group. And a mix of mechanics, truck drivers, and administrators who tackle the awesome task of helping kids grow in their faith. It warms my heart to see these folks every week.
But one day, I asked the question: "what is the average age of all our KidServants on Sunday morning?" Aside from the 20 year old and another lady who is in her 30's, most of our group is 40+. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Physical appearance aside, these saints have energy to spare. In no way, shape, or form do I want to downplay the contribution of these men and women.
But I remember I first taught a 5th grade Sunday School class when I was in high school. My wife taught when she was in junior high. Even my oldest daughter led a group when she was still in school. In my adventures at Children's Pastors Conferences, I've met children's pastors, directors, and coordinators that look like they just graduated. And I found myself wondering: "where is the next generation in our children's program?"
And then I read a blog. One of many blogs I regularly read. And the writer talked about his dream and plan to start recruiting the next generation. His words clicked and resounded within my spirit. The only trouble is, in my haste, I failed to note which blog I was reading. Soooooo....if you recently wrote about recruiting the next generation, please know that your spirit bore witness with my spirit!
Meanwhile, I shared my thoughts with the elder who is over me. He got very excited about the possibilities. The thought of a younger team being implanted in ministry is thrilling. Again, we don't want to replace our current workers (unless they want to be replaced), but we do want to begin actively seeking responsible older teens and 20's to step up and begin assuming these rolls. Several of our ministries have already begun doing this (two kids who grew up in our Sunday School are now elders in the church!). It's time for children's ministries to do the same.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
THE STORM (a very personal blog)
Someone once observed that blogging can be very cathartic. I've never tried to test that idea, but ever so often, I have things on my mind and my heart that need to be expressed. This picture was taken following a Celebration KREW meeting one Saturday night. The approaching storm clouds were interesting to watch, but we did not suspect what they packed. Less than ten minutes later, we were driving home in a surprising spring blizzard!
Sometimes, when the proverbial "storm clouds of life" arrive, we stand amazed from a safe distance. But before we know it, we are in the middle of the storm.
I have been wrestling with my feelings for some precious folks who are very dear to me. One of them is a relative, one a friend. Both are making unwise and spiritually disasterous choices in their lives. And I am absolutely powerless to do anything about it. Their issues are being dealt with at various levels. But that doesn't change the storm of emotions I'm facing.
I'm angry. I want to take them by the shoulders and give them a good shaking (especially the relative). Like Cher's character in Moonstruck, I want to slap them and shout, "Snap out of it!"
I'm depressed. Their actions and choices deeply sadden me. This part is actually surprising, because in the course of pastoral ministry, I have dealt with others with similar issues, but I've never been so down over it.
I'm taking it personally. "What could I have done? How could I have been a better friend? How could I have missed the warning signs?"
I'm resting in God's love and grace. This is the only stable part of this whole situation. My emotions may come and go, my reactions may at times be totally out of whack, but my Father is still there and still cares.
So please pray for my friend and for my relative, that they would wake up before it's too late. And pray for me that I may model what Jesus would have me model in the face of this storm.
Thank you.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF OUR CHURCH
I was going through some files the other day, when I ran across some stunning pictures of our church building, taken from up high...way up high. It looks like an early fall day in southern Oregon, and with the bright sunshine and tree-lined streets, it looks like a page from a travel guide to smaller American cities (and I would be lax in my duties as a citizen of said city if I didn't point out that we are one of the fastest growing cities in the state).
Notice the steeple. That and the part of the building to which it is attached, were originally built in the early 1900's. The rest has been added on through the years.
A little higher now.
And way high. The church building is just a little left of center. The big building behind it belongs to the school district and includes a gymnasium and classrooms. It used to be part of the middle school, but an early morning fire wiped out much of the property (which is why it looks like vacant fields to the right...that all used to be buildings!) One of the miracles of that morning was that our church building, located just across a narrow alley, was totally untouched.
Notice the steeple. That and the part of the building to which it is attached, were originally built in the early 1900's. The rest has been added on through the years.A little higher now.And way high. The church building is just a little left of center. The big building behind it belongs to the school district and includes a gymnasium and classrooms. It used to be part of the middle school, but an early morning fire wiped out much of the property (which is why it looks like vacant fields to the right...that all used to be buildings!) One of the miracles of that morning was that our church building, located just across a narrow alley, was totally untouched.
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