Eric's Blog

Only the Church!

2012-03-05T09:25:00.002-06:00

I am in Arizona this morning with my brother and cousin. We are finishing up taking care of all the things that have to be done when a loved one passes. My 90 year old aunt passed away after a long difficult year. Physically she suffered like any 90 year old person. This past year she suffered from loss. The loss of her husband, the loss of her luxurious living in a senior center, the loss of control of making decisions. She was so angry with my brother and I a year ago when we decided it was best for her not to be in independent living. She eventually accepted it and started telling us that she made the decision and that she loves us. I've been coming almost yearly to see her since I was 13 years old. It was strange to land in this familiar city knowing she was gone.

My day yesterday started in Carrier Mills. This church was torn apart by a tornado last Wednesday morning at 5:30am. We met in a large living room in the parsonage. They started the service with a song of thanksgiving and praise. I thought to myself 'only the church'! The whole service was moving and I was humbled to speak to them yesterday. They were sad and have no idea what they are going to do but I'm confident their faith has not been shaken. They were safe. A few tears during the service but mostly smiles and confidence. Only the Church!

Since Carrier Mills begins at 9:00am I was able to get to Harrisburg to be in their service. The community looks like a war zone. I passed a restaurant called Wok and Roll - No roof and missing a wall or two but a sign in the window said, "open". Of course they weren't - but they will be again. That's the spirit of southern Illinois - Nothing will keep us down. I was impressed by the help and professional organizations like Samaritan's Purse that was set up and doing strategic ministry. Then I arrived at the church. The tornado passed over our church in Harrisburg. The building is filled with thousands of bags of potato chips, a warehouse full of water and they were expecting hams to arrive that afternoon and wondered where they would put all the ham. It was impressive.

It was once again the people that I cannot say enough about. Both pastors of the these churches (John Neace and Dan Masters) are under tremendous stress but are on top of it and doing great. They are moved by the support of the Church of God in IL and others that have called. Pastor Dan allowed everyone that wanted to share their story to speak in the service. This was a masterful thought - allowing people to tell their story was so healing.

I was humbled to be with this 'family' yesterday as they shared. Several had lost their homes. One elderly couple shared their story with their teenage/young adult grand kids sitting closer to them than ever before I imagine. Another 80 year old couple had lost their home, car, clothes, heirloom... yet they praised God. Really? Losing it all and four days later they are in church praising God. One of the grandchildren told a story of walking the golf course behind his grandparents "previous" home. He looked down on the green he was standing on and picked up a necklace from his grandpa's heirlooms. He was so overcome with joy. He put the necklace (it was masculine) around his neck and hasn't taken it off.

I thought of the joy that came over him when he found this heirloom that he thought was gone forever. It made me think of the joy that God finds when one lost person comes home. This young man in his 20's wept as he professed his faith in Christ.

I went to these two churches to encourage them - to brings words of hope - to share with them that we care... I was the one encouraged, cared for, ministered to, and hopeful. Only the Church! The day started early for me. 4:30am to be exact because I woke up sick - it ended with dinner in Pheonix with my brother and cousin - laughing around the table as we shared in our loss.

It was a spirit filled day full of emotion. I'm so thankful to have lived yesterday. To see the church, to be in a family, to have friends --- all deeply in love with Jesus... it doesn't get any better than that.

Why Visitors Don't Return

2012-02-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have been working with several churches on the same subject and it has caused me to do some evaluating of guest services when it comes to the church. Why do some churches have a high return of guests that eventually make the church their home church? Why do other churches struggle to get one return visit? Here are some thoughts:

1) The smell test - my "one time" associate and "still" best friend and I would joke about the smell test but it's true. Sometimes churches smell like an old musty building that has sat empty for years and someone opened the door for the first time an hour before worship. An easy fix: light 'warm vanilla' candles. Keep the scent vanilla because many people are allergic to flowery smells. Remember, if you are in the church every Sunday you won't smell it so ask a friend to be honest with you. Buy a neighbor a cup of coffee if they will stop by the church and smell it with you. Best idea, bake cookies on Sunday Morning in the church!

2) Don't ask - don't tell. Have a serious plan to get guest information. I suggest having them drop by the guest information center and receive a gift (and one for the children) when they give you their information. Have information that a newcomer would desire - a coffee cup is nice but it doesn't tell you anything about the church. If you don't ask for information they will not tell you! Have a serious plan and do it every Sunday.

3) Inside Information. This will make someone unhappy. There are words and phrases spoken on a Sunday Morning that I have know idea what people are saying. Think about what you are saying. Prayer Request (that can go on and on) about people that newcomers don't know is a zoning out time. It is reminding them that they are guests and it will be overwhelming to ever break through the "family feel" of this church. Phrases like "You know how it is around here" "regular time" "monthly offering" "narthex". They don't know your favorite songs, favorite traditions, or that good ole Church of God people have to eat when they get together. By the way, do you know Baptist, Lutherans, and Assembly of God folk say the same thing? Be aware of inside information and phrases that newcomers are clueless about.

4) The closing of the service. Have a Benediction or a sending off phrase. Wrap up the worship experience with a kind word. "thanks for coming and have a great week" is better than walking off the stage or having the band play a closing song and then people just start moving out. I used to close every service with the same Benediction. I would ask the congregation to stand and then I would say, "Go forth into the streets of this world. Go with the memory of this hour when you have refreshed your souls in the presence of God and with His people. God with the intention to be faithful to Jesus. Carry His love and extend it to everyone you meet. Go with courage - with a resolve not to sin and Go with the exciting reminder that at any moment, Jesus may came again! In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Walk with God!" Over the course of time, people would say it with me, the teenagers could recite it, even the children would smile. Recently I spoke at this same church and they said, "do your ending".

5) Culture of generosity. I didn't realize this while I was pastoring but I sure notice it now. A church that is generous touches me deeply. A stingy spirit when things are all about them sticks out to a newcomer worse than a smelly building. A congregation that is demonstrating love to a mission, the poor, helping the youth go to a convention, blessing a college student with an offering, celebrating an accomplishment of a teacher, whatever... it is deeply moving to a guest.

6) Where's Waldo? Pastor Waldo that is. I think a pastor should say something like this: "If you are a guest this morning I would really like to meet you so I am going to be (in the front, at the guest services table, under the clock in the lobby) and I would love to have a chance to thank you for being with us today and get to connect with you." I don't understand why it's so hard to find pastors after the service. Also, if you are standing and talking to all the regulars - guest will not wait in line. Greet the regulars before the service or earlier in the day and save the after service for newcomers. Tell your congregation the plan and they will get onboard as well. I am thinking of John Maxwell's Law of the Picture. People do what people see!

I'm sure you have some ideas. What are they? I would love to hear from some that have been a guest at a church and what drew you in or away?

The Day of the Lord

2012-02-18T08:46:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow is Sunday. For over 25 years it has been a 'work' day for me. If I wasn't preaching I was leading worship or leading a congregational prayer or offering a chance for the people of God to respond to the call of God. I love Sundays. I love worship. I love being with the people of God and joining in praise of song. It doesn't matter to me if it is a song written in 2011 or a song written in 1940. Recently I have enjoyed listening to gifted preachers in the Church of God in IL, men and women alike craft messages that deserve to be heard by the world. Typically on a Sunday Morning I am thinking of the scripture "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go to the house of the Lord."

This morning I read in Amos 5:21-23 that God hates our worship; our songs sound like noise to Him, and he refuses our offerings (even though we give them) if we don't treat people with love. If we oppress people, abandon morality, throw out godly values, and deprive people of justice we might as well sleep in on Sundays - put the instruments away - let the Bible gather dust if we are not going to live by the teaching... because that thing we do on Sunday morning and hopefully throughout the week is ticking God off. He even calls the women of Israel, "cows". Can you imagine?

But of course the other option is to Love God with all your heart, soul and mind - love others - even love yourself. Let your worship be pure, your lives be holy, and your songs be sweet to the Master's ears.

How do you prepare your hearts for worship? How do you enter his courts with thanksgiving without carrying junk like unforgiveness, bitterness? If we haven't treated others with love, does it matter in your worship?

Deep Thinking Questions

2011-12-22T11:47:00.000-06:00

This morning I am being interviewed by Lynn Masters, a student at MACU in the Masters of Leadership Degree. I have the opportunity to assist Lynn in her process as a mentor. However, as often is the case the student is challenging the mentor. I am excited about the soon to be announced project that Lynn will be doing on behalf of IL Ministries as well as fulfillment of the degree.

Lynn sent me the interview questions before our Skype meeting. I wanted to share the questions because they were excellent questions for leadership teams or pastoral staffs to use as they talk about mission and vision. I hope they spur some challenge in your ministry. The questions helped me to do some deep thinking. I was reminded that without God in the equation of successful ministry I would be found so lacking.

Enjoy - and thanks Lynn!

Explain how your personal spiritualjourney prepared you for the leadership position you hold today. (e.g. when youbecame a Christian, educational background, etc.)

What leadership qualities in thosewho mentored stands out in your mind as having influenced your own personalleadership style?

Explain how you endeavor to model theway by clarifying values and affirming shared values in your present positionas State Minister (not sure what your official title is )

How are you are endeavoring toinspire a shared vision among leaders in our state?

Explain this vision and how youenlist others by appealing to share aspirations.

What has been the most challengingchange you have encountered since assuming your position?

What risks did you take when youbegan implementing needed changes in the way things had been done previously?

How are you enabling others to act onthe shared vision through fostering collaborations within our state?

Can you explain how you plan to strengthenother leaders to be self determined and to build competence within the pastorsof our state?

Do you have a plan in place torecognize and celebrate the contributions of those who excel in modeling theshared vision for our state? In otherwords, how do you encourage the heart of those whom you lead?

Why some churches never give in

2011-11-17T08:43:00.000-06:00

I’m reading “How The Mighty Fall” by Jim Collins. He talks about stages of decline in great companies. As I am reading this historical study of great companies that are no longer around. I am struck by the comparison of when churches lose their greatness. Allow me to use Jim Collin’s idea and simplify his wording.

Stage One: Pride. Great churches begin their fall by thinking, “we are more holy” or “we have a greater vision” or “nothing is gonna change about the way we do things”. I have heard every one of these comments and worse. It appears that many churches that are in decline have a sense of pride about it. Thinking that they will bounce back. Almost thankful they have fewer people because they don't have as many problems. Some even think that if they had a different pastor (silver bullet) that would solve their problems. While it is possible that pastors can bottleneck a church it is very seldom the pastor’s sole fault that the church is in decline.

I have talked to pastors and they are looking for a silver bullet too. A new program, a new worship leader, a new facility AND THEN we would turn around. I stand in awe of how a new church can begin in a city and people get saved, baptized and discipled when three blocks away sits a dead declining church. What is more amazing to me is that the dead church has a sense of pride about being in decline.

Pride that they have not ‘watered the gospel’ down to nothing. Pride that they are not about to build Six Flags Over Jesus. Pride that they have uncomfortable pews while those young kids want chairs and drums and coffee in the sanctuary.

I am not saying that pews and the ‘no coffee’ rule will put your church in decline! But that type of pride will send you into a spiral and you may never recover. But hey, at least the carpet won't be stained. I have sat with five groups of leaders in different churches as they voted to close their church. It is sad and disheartening no matter how you try and spin it. They all have similar things they say and they all have similar things they have done. That’s another article!

Questions to think about:

1) Are we growing, plateaued, or declining?
2) What keeps you from being a great church?
3) What are the excuses you have heard that keeps your church from reaching the lost?
4) What are signs of humility in your church?
5) What are signs of pride in your church?

Take yourself less seriously

2011-11-03T09:09:00.000-05:00

I live in a world that is performance driven. Most of the pressure I have in my life would ease up if I would allow them. I know the pressure is not coming from God. I don’t think pressure is the tool of choice to mold and shape us that God prefers. I’m confident that God will use pressurized situations. God will use busy schedules or God will use seasons of absent Sabbaths to reach us. However, God also could just as easy use a rainy day like today or a crisp fall day like yesterday to speak to us.

God wants to work ‘in’ you more than He wants to work ‘through’ you. What does that say to performance driven people? At the end of the day it means the question I need to ask is “God, what are you doing in my life – what are you wanting to chip at, bless or talk about?” Honestly, it’s often, “God, I sure worked hard today for you, I earned the check today, Father! I sure honored you by the encouragement I shared with that pastor."

Then I remember – God is interested in what He’s doing in me not through me. Could it be that the most productive time I spend with God is early in the morning with a cup of coffee and my Bible? Maybe it’s not the conference call or counseling time? Perhaps it’s not a meeting that I led well but the time in the car following the meeting while I’m alone with God praying or listening to “great things He has taught us, great things He has done and great our rejoicing through Jesus, God’s Son. Praise the Lord!”

I need to take myself less seriously and take God more seriously.

Spiritual Abuse

2011-10-28T09:03:00.000-05:00

Abuse angers me. Abuse of finances. Abuse of children. Abuse of driving. It's easy to spot abuse in others. I can tend to flip my nose up and say something like, "I'm glad I don't spend my money like that." "I would never drive that ridiculously." Who hasn't shed a tear when the advertisement about pet abuse hits our tv screen? Abuse of children pulls on all of our hearts.

Spiritual abuse - we don't hear too much on that subject. I have observed it and have been guilty of heaping a dose of spiritual abuse on people from time to time - with good intentions of course - but it's still spiritual abuse. Whether is exaggerating stories, shaming people into submission, using a text from scripture to slap people around, guilting people into showing up, or manipulating a situation to get results - I've done it. I'm not proud of it and the results are empty. I guard against it. Actually, one of the reasons I can spot it is because I am conscious of the evil behind spiritual abuse. I guard against behaving like a pharisee - extreme righteousness. Extreme righteousness is when holiness and righteousness is done in your strength. Holiness in our strength drives the desire to make people like you; not Jesus. I remind myself often that I am clay - talking to other clay about what the potter wants to do with us. I am clay.

I read a blog this morning on 10 Ways to Spot Spiritual Abuse. www.marydemuth.com. Check the article out but here's two that I see all too often:

Create a culture of fear and shame. Often, there is no grace for someone who fails to live up to the church’s or ministry’s expectation. And if someone steps outside of the often-unspoken rules, leaders shame them into compliance. Can’t admit failure but often searches out failure in others and uses that knowledge to hold others in fear and captivity. They often quote Scriptures about not touching God’s anointed or bringing accusations against an elder. Yet they often confront sin in others, particularly ones who bring up legitimate biblical issues. Or they have their circle of influence take on this task, silencing critics

Hold to outward performance but rejects authentic spirituality. Places burdens on followers to act a certain way, dress an acceptable way, and have an acceptable lifestyle.

What do you think? Do you think this is an issue? Struggle with this? How do you guard against it? Is discipleship or mentoring possible without a little spiritual abuse?

7 Lessons About Fundraising

2011-09-21T11:39:00.000-05:00

"7 Lessons My Father Taught Me About Fundraising" by Dr. Barry Corey

This was a great article for Church Boards and Pastors. Here are the main points.

1) Write letters.
2) Model the gift of caring.
3) Recognize people's spirit over their status.
4) Pray for the miraculous.
5) Keep an eternal perspective.
6) Have an abiding zeal - your zeal for your vision is like an enticing aroma that does not fade.
7) Pray for favor, not favors!

It's Church Budget Time

2011-09-20T21:53:00.000-05:00

George Bullard recently blogged about church budgets and it got me thinking about addressing this issue specifically for churches in Illinois. I get this question quite often; "how much should be budgeted for salaries? how much for facilities? what about mission?

Here are a few bench marks that I think are pretty fair to keep the church engaged in the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment.

70% - Facilities and Personnel

30% - Mission and Ministry

There are times that this will be out of balance. There were several years that I would plan on being out of balance in order to build momentum, create outreach, and specific movements toward vision. However, my goal was to always be within that realm.

I would begin with Mission and Ministry when doing budget. To me they were non negotiable. Personnel was not left to the last. Please don't leave personnel 'to give them what's left over'. If you have to make up for a tight budget start with the facilities. Why would a group of loving followers of Christ in a church family budget for new carpet and air conditioners while leaving staff in the dust for a raise? The Bible calls us to show pastors double honor. I have seen churches put facilities over personnel too many times. Let's start a movement to stop this.

What about cutting staff, salary, benefits? There are times that it happens and it's necessary. Most of the time it's just the easiest thing to do. Here is the only reason I can think of cutting staff or benefits.... when the mission and vision is impeded and people are giving until it hurts.

How much should pastors be making? Check out www.cogpension.org / There are many great resources on this web site.

One Mind - One Purpose

2011-09-20T07:33:00.000-05:00

“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another and working together with one mind and purpose.” – Philippians 2:2

Does this mean that will think and act alike? It wouldn’t be consistent with the rest of scripture. We certainly must agree on the main issues of the Christian faith. We might disagree on what those main issues are. There are many minor matters that will bring a great deal of difference of opinion. I dare not begin to list them - that would go against this text.

Uniformity and unity are not the same things. I believe you can have unity and we can have different opinions. Uniformity comes from the word uniform. It’s the action to get everyone looking alike so that nobody steps out line. It’s a way to control behavior. Uniformity is intimidating. It can be awe inspiring.

Unity is to be like-minded or to have the mind of Christ. Unity is to see things as Christ would see them and respond as He would respond. To agree wholeheartedly and love one another means to have a love that did not count the cost. Have you ever had a friend that didn’t count the cost of being your friend? If yes, you’ve been blessed!

NLT says, “working together with one mind and purpose”. I love to use this text when talking to leaders and churches about vision. Working together with one mind and purpose is to move in harmony toward the vision of where God is leading. It is to be in unity as to show the mind of Christ is directing our every move.

In terms of mission, vision, and values this text speaks to having an understanding of where Christ is leading and we pull together to get there; and we are having a great time doing it!

Reflections On Pastor Appreciation Month!

2011-09-12T15:36:00.000-05:00

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. If I could accomplish one thing this month it would be to help churches see the value of this celebration. I pastored a church for over 20 years that honored my wife and me every October. There were years that it was embarrassing how gracious they were. The words that were expressed in cards or even spoken to us that month would make us want to be better servants! Gifts... (and yes I reported the income to the IRS) I was blessed.

I have had pastors ask me, “how did you get Shorewood to do that?” I didn't get them to do it but I can think of two responses.

I have learned a few things being out of the Pastoral Ministry these last two years. One of the things is this; I get the impression that a lot of shepherds don’t like their sheep. The sheep have bitten them, the sheep stink, and they are messy. Much of the time, the sheep are not treated kindly. It seems to me that appreciation received happens because you give it first.

Anyone angry yet? Let me push it a little further. When was the last time you told the congregation that you loved them and you appreciated them? When was the last time you celebrated the volunteers or gave appreciation to the worship team? Churches that respond to Pastor Appreciation Month are usually led by pastors that are strong lovers of people! Pastors, lead the church in honoring one another. This is a line we stole from Willow Creek when we honored teachers, volunteers, youth workers, children…. “we hold you in high regard.” Then the church would bust out in applause.

You might say (if you are a pastor) I do that all the time – and we don’t even get a card! I am sorry. Truly I am. The Bible says in Hebrews 13:7 that we are to honor those who preach and lead. I am truly sorry that the congregation doesn’t do that. They are standing in the way of God hugely blessing them. I mean that – Shorewood would receive a huge blessing out of blessing me. That is totally biblical by the way. They would laugh, scheme, plan, and sneak around for weeks. All the time, I would know exactly what they were doing. The first thing is this: Create a culture of Appreciation.

Now to the sheep. Read Hebrews 13:7, “Appreciate your leaders who give you the Word!” Do it and do it well. Honoring your pastor will encourage them and bless them. It will make sleepless nights and long weeks seem less disturbing. You will help them realize that what they do matters.

I had a person approach me in Shorewood and say, “I don’t get appreciated at my job, after all you get a paycheck.” Actually he is correct. The church doesn’t owe the pastor appreciation unless of course they want to obey the Word.

Anyone reading this that is not a pastor: lead this in your church. Do it. You will be blessed and it will bless your pastor.

I now serve in a different role. There isn’t a month to “hug the State Guy!” I’m perfectly fine with that and don’t expect it. Pastors are doing the heavy lifting and I have the privilege of loving and supporting them. Last week, Lisa and I were talking about this very subject and I was remembering gifts during the month of October. Shorewood was really awesome at this folks! One year, dinner was brought to our house every night – 30 days of supper at home. That had never happened and it hasn't since them. We actually got tired of cleaning dishes and couldn’t wait to go to Chili’s.

As we talked about those days – it still blessed us.

Let me wrap this up in a simple package…

Pastors, lead the revolution by creating an atmosphere of appreciation. Not for the sake of getting blessed but for the sake of obedience to scripture.

Everybody else, lead the revolution of honoring your pastor every October. Get it in the Culture and DNA of your church. Talk to someone today. Think big and then back down if you have to. Don’t start small and hope it grows into an all expense paid vacation to Florida.

One more thing, Shorewood always honored our two daughters as well. The girls would receive gift cards and money too and the church would always give them a note that said something like this, “thank you for sharing your mom and dad with us. We appreciate your sacrifice too.”

That was better than what Lisa and I received. I would love to hear comments but be nice.

Molder of Dreams

2011-09-10T15:26:00.000-05:00

Thirty years ago, I wanted to be a teacher! I had great teachers in High School that influenced my life greatly. Two things still make me wonder what it would have been like.

First, this time of year when all the kids are returning to school. I love new beginnings.

Secondly, this poem entitled: Molder of Dreams.

Incidentally - it was a favorite of Ronald Reagan's.

You are the molders of their dreams

You who build or crush

Their young beliefs of right or wrong.

You are the spark that sets aflame

The poet's hand or lights the flame

Of some great singer's song.

You are the leaders of the young, the very young

You are the guardian of a million dreams

Your every smile or frown

Can heal or pierce the heart.

Your patient work, your touch

Make you the leaders of hope

Who fill their souls with dreams

To make those dreams come true.

You molder of dreams

My Focus Today: Leading Me! Tough Day....

2011-09-09T09:57:00.000-05:00

The most important person you will ever lead is not your staff, your family, your church… The most important person you will ever lead is yourself.

I don’t know about you but leading self can be difficult. Leading yourself to make wise decisions. Leading yourself to eat right. Leading yourself to exercise. Leading yourself to Love God first.

It’s much easier to point fingers and ‘mutter’ (see Luke 15) about what everyone else needs to do to change. How many times have I thought, “Life would be easy to fix if I were them. Here’s what they should do.” Yep, I can fix your life but it’s mine that’s tough and the reason mine is tough is, “ME!”

It’s easy to forget that I must be growing and changing in order to effectively lead other people. The best gift I give to my family, to pastors and church leaders, to my staff is my growth and development plan. Then, when I as the leader, start to grow and change, guess what I begin to see happen? People around me start to grow and change.

Everything rises and falls on leadership.

1) How are you leading yourself?

2) What is your personal growth and development plan?

3) What are your personal growth areas?

4) What specific steps could you begin to take to grow in these areas?

The Truth About Leadership

2011-09-06T10:33:00.000-05:00

In the Truth About Leadership, Kouzes and Posner describe what research has revealed about leadership and how certain aspects of leadership endure over time. Here are a couple of things that I gleaned from reading the text. I think these 10 lessons are essential for pastors and church leaders to review often.

1. Individuals make a difference not programs. Inspirational leadership is accompanied by a positive attitude.
2. Credibility is the foundation of leadership.
3. Values drive commitment. For a humbling exercise, write down desired values, actual values and stated values. This is one of the most desired values (and stated) "Lost people matter to God". Actually many times it is not the actual value. The actual value is; "we matter to God and lost people would to if they came to our church and acted like us."
4. Focusing on the vision of the church sets leaders apart. Good vision casting connects the hopes and aspirations with the congregation.
5. Pastors cannot do it alone.
6. Trust rules! Honest leaders not only tell the truth, they also lives according to their own guiding principles.
7. Difficult times (cross bearing) is the nuts and bolts of greatness.
8. Leaders either lead by example or they do not lead at all. Words are cheap - Action is powerful.
9. The best leaders (and pastors) are the best learners.
10. Leadership comes from the heart.

I stand ready to protect and fight for the truth of this statement: Jesus is and will always be the Model of Leadership - across the board and in any situation.

Why do people go to your church?

2011-08-27T08:10:00.000-05:00

i recently started revisiting "Church Unique" by Will Mancini. That books has helped me teach mission and vision more than any other book I've read. I love his style.

http://www.amazon.com/Church-Unique-Missional-Jossey-Bass-Leadership/dp/0787996831

After another Church Coaching Weekend and with several under my belt now, I can honestly say these statements that are listed below are really true. The real reason people call your church home ---- Get your kleenex out, it's a little sad.

1. Place – We make our buildings and then our buildings make us. People get addicted to space unless the space serves a bigger vision.

2. Personality – 15-35% of your people are most deeply connected to your church because of a pastor or staff member.

3. Programs – Just try to shut one down. It's hard to change when our people get their identity from how we do things instead of why we do things.

4. People – Many call your church home because they know a handful of people who sit near them or attend a class together. It's easy to rely entirely on the comfort food of community without cause.

Question: What is your unique calling as a church, that transcends place, personality, programs and people?

I remember Dr. Massey saying it like this? What is your niche?

Is God Punishing Me?

2011-08-19T07:43:00.001-05:00

“I hope God isn’t punishing me but it sure feels like it.” I heard these words from a good friend last night. It broke my heart and I wanted to do something. It didn’t shock me that it was happening because suffering is a part of life. But, I wanted to change the situation, solve the problem or even get involved to try and help ease the suffering. Suffering is a part of life. If you want God to use you greatly, then you must allow God to wound you deeply. Its the story of the Bible.

We need to learn to suffer well. You are, you have, you will...suffer. Sometimes suffering happens because you do the right thing. I think of Joseph and Potiphar’s wife… Suffering is not punishment from the Father that is angry with you or despises you. God adores you!

Paul said in Eph. 3.1 – I Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus… but Paul wasn’t in prison by Jesus. Paul saw that because he was in prison by Nero he was identifying with Christ therefore, a prisoner. He saw his time of suffering all for the sake of the cause; Gentiles have access to the Father and Paul was willing to suffer for that cause. In all likely hood Paul suffered so that you and I could know the Good News of Christ's salvation!

Paul’s suffering had benefits and so can yours. John Calvin said that everything that happens to us passes through the hands of God. Once again the Apostle Pual, “above all this, there something glorious and good to be had through this suffering.” I wonder as Paul suffered if he thought of Isaiah, the suffering servant?

So why is the first question that comes to most of our minds when faced with suffering, “is God punishing me?” Please know this, I am not casting stones. I am the finest whiner when it comes to problems that has ever walked this earth. But why are we shocked?

Hebrews 2:10 says that Jesus was made perfect through his… suffering. God became a sympathetic High Priest. We will never be able to lead or help others if we haven’t suffered. Suffering releases you to serve. Suffering, if allowed, can birth in us a love for Jesus as we get to know our suffering High Priest.

I wish I would think more deeply in my suffering instead of feel more deeply. Until I think through it I cannot seem to move through it. I think sanctification (becoming holy or more like Christ) is turbo charged in our life through suffering.

Jesus didn’t suffer so we don’t have to, He suffered so that when we suffer we might become like Him.

What do you think?

5 Reasons Churches Remain Small

2011-08-18T05:30:00.005-05:00

I originally read this article on a blog found at www.smallchurchcoaching.com. I was intrigued by the title and thoughts. I rewrote the article based upon my experience in the Church of God and coaching smaller churches. The ultimate vision that God has given me for ministry is to create healthy churches through two vantage points; leadership development and pastoral health. I believe in the local church and as I've heard Bill Hybels say so many times, 'she's the hope of the world!". Here is a rewrite of Five Reasons that churches remain small.

Unresolved Conflict. Churches and pastors that ignore conflict or run from conflict don’t grow. Conflict in churches is as messy as marriage counseling. Small churches cannot afford to ignore conflict. The loss of a family or a whole family system in a medium sized church is unpleasant. In a small church, though, that same loss may mean half or more of the worshipping participants walking out. And so, rather than dealing with conflict effectively, the leaders and the congregation as a whole will choose to ignore the conflict. Dealing with conflict as it happens still might damage the small church but ignoring will kill it for sure! It just takes longer.

Lack of Hospitality. First-time visitors decide whether or not they’ll return to your congregation within the first 10 minutes of their visit – and some experts suggest the decision is made within the first three minutes. Either way, you will never get another chance to make a first-impression, so make sure your guests are well received. Remember that Hospitality begins in the parking lot, not once a guest finds their way into your worship center. They generally come with pretty low expectations and an even lower opinion of churches and their members, so when they show up on your doorstep you’re already starting from a deficit. Thus, if there’s no safe, sanitary, and secure nursery for their little ones they are unlikely to be back. If they have to try and keep their older children and youth “entertained” during your worship service, they won’t be back … mostly because they were totally unable to worship or even hear the message, since they were continually distracted by their kids. And if you break any of the Platinum Rules of Guest Relations – Don’t Embarrass Me, Don’t Ignore Me, Don’t Overwhelm Me, and Don’t Confuse Me – they won’t be back. For the record, everything you do … from your choice of hymns to the content of your sermon … is related to hospitality. This is the number one reason first-time guests don’t return. I have never coached a church yet that has not said proudly, “we are a friendly church.” Really they are just friendly to each other – not to guest.

Inward Focused. Although it’s true of non-growing churches of every size, it’s especially hard to miss when a small church is more concerned with answering the question “What about us?” rather than “How can we be the tangible touch of Jesus for our neighbors?” When maintaining status quo outweighs faithful effectiveness, church growth is impossible. Don’t believe for one moment that this is strictly a “style of worship”. Inward focus generally pervades every decision a non-growing small church makes from where the pastor spends her/his time to what events get on the calendar. I hear in almost any consultation, “we take care of each other.” Precisely, that’s why you are the only one’s here. I mentioned in one church that I personally don’t like “turn and greet your neighbor” time. I don’t like it because I am always a guest and I don’t know anyone. So while everybody is hugging and catching up, I’m standing there… introducing myself or looking around. When I tell church leaders that, often the response is ‘well we like it!’ But what if it makes a guest uncomfortable? Churches have to be intentional about being outward focus. It will not happen if you are not intentional!

Leaders (and sometimes pastors) Don’t Really Want Growth. I write from personal experience. My wife and I worked like crazy to get the church in Shorewood turned around. We had 35 people that loved us and became grandparents to our kids… but when the church started growing, some of the kind people became pretty ornery. I heard things like, “they’re not Church of God” or “they haven’t invested in this church like we have.” At first, everybody’s smiling during greeting time because that’s the ‘favorite’ part! But when the new people outnumber the old people (written with sarcasm) all sorts of things start happening. I had never heard the phrase “the bylaws say” so much. What I’m saying is not true in every church and it does not match every experience but the same people that said, “pastor make this church grow” were not really on board with the growth. They abandoned ship for the most part using the parting words, "we're going somewhere that cares about people!" I have worked with churches that a church leader intentionally sabotaged an idea or started a fight just to get control back. Unless the church leadership is really on board, sustained growth isn’t going to happen.

The Church has Become the Walking Dead. If history has shown us anything, it’s that nothing we build lasts forever. The reality is, churches have a life cycle. Churches are birthed, they live, and they die. As wonderful as St. Paul was, not a single church he started exists today. Sure, some churches are born, get old, but find a way to be re birthed. But in the end, even these churches will one day be history. In reality, there are many, many small churches that have died … they’ve reached the end of their productive life cycle and at best, they are on life support. But the few, the proud, the tenacious will continue to show up because it’s what they’ve always done and to do any differently is unthinkable. These churches need one of two things. In some cases, the remaining membership can be helped to see the congregation needs to be disbanded before they deplete whatever resources are left … and to leave those resources to support a new church start. This is the most faithful legacy a church can leave. Convincing a church of that is tough! On the other hand, some congregations are so steeped in denial and grief that the legacy option seems more like suicide than faithfulness. These churches need a pastor who can serve as their hospice chaplain – someone who’s greatest gift is simply to be there and prepare the dying for death while making $75.00 a week.

Please feel free to respond to this article. I recommend the blog at www.smallchurchcoaching.com. I long to coach and partner with churches and pastors that desire to change the small church culture that has dominated the Church of God in Illinois for too long.

Disturb us, Lord!

2011-08-17T10:37:00.001-05:00

Several months ago I posted the 1st stanza to the prayer of Sir Francis Drake. A few days ago a friend sent me the rest of the prayer. It's a powerful prayer written in 1577.

Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves, when our dreams have come true
because we have dreamed too little, when we arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when with the abundance of things we possess we have lost our thirst for the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life, we have ceased to dream of eternity and in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, to venture on wider seas where storms will show your mastery;
Where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars.

We ask You to push back the horizons of our hopes; and to push into the future in strength, courage, hope, and love.

In The Meantime

2011-08-12T11:33:00.000-05:00

I’ve thought a little bit more about ‘stuck times’ or ‘in the meantime’ seasons of life. We all have them. They can seem so long. Recently I've had several ‘in the meantime’ experiences. Having an office 2 hours away from my family… working through difficult financial times in State Ministries… building a million dollar building with $600,000 and no approval to borrow money… knowing that staff cuts were coming which I knew would lead to not working next to a dear friend in ministry.

Oh how we need the grace of God in those times. I can think of no fancy term to describe it – only it scared me into fear and depression which led to embarrassment. Although days are brighter and I am enjoying life and ministry, I have a confession.

In the meantime experiences caused me to wonder if I would ever get out of it. Would I ever enjoy ministry again? The continual thought of "Eric, you are so out of your league." Only the spiritually elite could accomplish this task.

I remembering learning about the Peter Principle in Business 101 – Elevating someone beyond their skills and then getting rid of them because they can’t perform the task. I was now living the Peter Principle. Nice!

Okay, enough whining. Here’s the secret. Don’t give up and stay where God puts you. Stay strong through the clouds, waves, winds and rain. Proverbs 13:12 – Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life!

‘Stuck Times’ can feel like years. Delay does not mean denied. Galatians 6:9, Don’t become weary in doing good, for at the proper time… or in due season… we will reap a harvest IF we don’t give up.”

When I was in college I remember a sermon that my pastor (Dave Shultz; still a favorite preacher) preached and it rings in my ears often – it was scripture but it was the way he said these words;

“In this world you will have trouble. Cheer up! I have overcome the world.”

You have Jesus – Cheer up because He has overcome the world!

When Will We Know

2011-08-10T09:15:00.000-05:00

I am tempted to start out writing about how busy I’ve been or how heavy the travel has been – how ‘bout all the camp meetings and preparation. Everybody is busy. The truth is, I got out of the habit of posting on the blog once a week. My goal at the beginning of the summer was to increase the writing and decrease other things. So, knowing that we are all busy and nobody enjoys excuses allow me to say, I’m back and I have lots of ideas planted in my BLOG file.

Here’s what I am thinking today. I am thinking about the Parable of the Sower in Mark 4. He spreads the seed on many types of soil. When does he know if it will matter?

I have invested in hundreds of lives. I have preached to thousands of individuals. I have prayed with countless people. When do I know if it mattered? Sometimes you know right away, but most of the time... not so much.

I heard my friend Gerald Rudd preach last night. He shared that he was presented the gospel three direct (in your face) times before he finally got it.

Mark 4 reminds me of being on vacation with my family when the girls were young. The question every dad loves, “are we there yet?” I would respond with something like, “does it look like we are there yet?” Erica, my oldest that loved to have the last word would say, “I don't know we are in the back seat and can't see?”

Here’s the truth. You may never know if your preaching is falling on fertile soil. You may never know if your hours of exegesis, late night prayers and the power of the Holy Spirit will turn the soil into producing fully devoted followers of Christ.

I guess the more important question is this, “are you okay not knowing? Are you at peace knowing that the calling is to be fishers of men.”

I think the reason I love ministry so much are relationships not results. I love results but it's the relationships that keep me going. It was never about a knew program or 6 principles to church health, it was the joy of doing life with the people of God.

When I hear great stories of radical conversion or awesome stories about God moving in a church, notice that you hear the beginning (how bad it was) and you hear the present (how God is blessing). You never hear about the waiting period.

In the meantime’s, are not recorded in scripture. Those times where we know we are not where we were but we are not where we are suppose to be…

Jesus’ silent years – 12 to 30 years of age. What happened?

Paul – saved on the Damascus road and the put in silence. What happened?

I need Jesus in the meantime’s. When the disciples were in the storm in Mark 6 the Bible says in verse 48, they were straining because the wind was against them. They were in the middle of the lake, it appears that they had been at it all night. That’s in the meantime! And Jesus appears in verse 50, “take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

What a welcome voice for those of us in the meantime. My prayer for every person that reads this is that you hear the welcome voice of Jesus today, “take courage, it is I. Don’t be afraid.”

Holiness

2011-06-14T02:18:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago I was at Herrin First Church of God and Pastor Dan Smith preached a great message on Holiness. Here are my notes (with Dan's permission) from that Sunday. Great preaching Dan!

Lack of service in ministry is a discipleship issue. Not a 12 step discipleship issue. Since holiness is a discipleship issue then service and ministry is a holiness issue.

Kierkegaard - tells a story of a minister dressed in a beautiful robe and beautiful stained glass. He preached from Luke 9:23, whoever wants to follow me must deny himself and take up his cross... Kierkegaard looked around and no one was laughing.

But most of Christianity today believes that Jesus wasn't serious.

We have made it simple - but deny thyself, take up a cross, daily, to follow Him.

We fight over surrendering a tithe, daily worship, a life of integrity, committed marriage, controlled spending. What does it mean for a Christian in 2011 to deny, take up, follow?

Owen Strachan - sanctification is not an antiseptic affair. We reach out and kill the sin that threatens us. It is not an option. The Word commands us, not suggests to us, it does not meekly consider itself for mankind to consider it. The Word stands as truth no matter what.

What is holiness?

Eph. 4:11-ff

Becoming like Christ. Carrying the fullness of Christ...

Vs.16 says if we don't do our part the body drags down... We are joined together... A Healthy Body Grows!

Vs.22-24- we put on the new man and take off...that's the process of holiness.

If this is done we will be making a difference. We have to take off and put on, we have to be willing to invest our lives.

Whatever we take off, the Holy Spirit replaces. Don't try to control it. You won't be empty, your life will be filled with the Spirits things.

Clay doesn't speak to the potter, the potter is the master. Sanctification is getting on the wheel of the potter and surrendering.

Creating A Healthy Board

2011-06-14T02:03:00.000-05:00

As I reflect over 20 plus years in ministry, most completed in one church, I wish I could redo some things. Here's one: I wish I would have spent more time creating healthy teams. We did yearly retreats, read books together, attended conferences, prayed together, and were challenged many times in leadership development lessons. But I would say I wasn't relentless.

Author Larry Osborne wrote the book, The Unity Factor, a book about creating a healthy board. I jotted down a few key thoughts.

What do you teach them?

I expose them to things I learned in seminary and in conferences and journals for pastors. I teach them everything from church growth principles to group dynamics. We talk philosophy of ministry.

As pastors, we often hold that information close to the vest until we’re in the midst of a decision and then pop it out as proof that everybody should do what we want to do. That makes you feel like a lobbyist.

I trained our elder board in the material before we needed it. My goal was to help them to think like pastors think, with the focus on what it means to lead a volunteer organization. Most people tend to lead the church like a business. The church is not a trucking company. The church is completely different.

What to look for in an Elder Board

First, we make sure potential elders don’t have glaring weaknesses as described in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. We look for the biblical qualifications first.

Second, we look for a fit with our philosophy of ministry. Just because someone is spiritually mature and attends our church doesn’t mean he has a right to completely change the direction of our church. A lot of churches fail to consider that when selecting church leaders.

Third, we look for team fit. We ask, What does our leadership team need right now? That changes. It’s like a sports team. You can’t win a championship with five Shaqs. Somebody’s got to bring the ball up the court.

How does a Leadership Team work as a team?

First, make sure your group is the right size—I suggest somewhere between five and twelve. If you have too many people, there is no way to keep the lines of communication flowing. Frankly, it’s the slightly-too-large board that often gets the time-bomb member—because the board is trying to fill that last slot or two.

Second, spend time together. The more time we spend together, the more we like and understand one another. Too many boards gather, quickly pray, do business, go home. I look for ways to have some play, socialization, time together.

Third, create shared experiences. That’s what training does. We get a common lingo, a common background that helps us—not necessarily to agree, but to understand our disagreements better.

What is the purpose of a board? What should members see as their function?

That changes as the church changes. In a smaller church, the purpose is usually helping a pastor get the job done. In a larger church it is helping a pastor make and communicate good decisions. In the largest churches, a board’s primary function is to be the brakes of the organization, the accountability, people who can stop anything. The board is also wise counsel, because a larger church is staff-led, so the board is more wise counsel than hands-on leaders. They also serve as a crisis team in waiting.

What do you do when your team isn’t functioning like one?

Pray. All the leadership understanding and insight in the world can’t make up for making sure the Lord’s hand is guiding you in what to do.

The second thing, if the relationships are really a struggle, is to bring in an outside consultant—one that both parties feel comfortable with. When people are not communicating well, just talking more doesn’t usually get anywhere.

How can you keep a board healthy?

Remember that you are a unit—whether you’re the pastor or a board member. I am a strong leader, but when my board says no, it’s no, and when my board makes a decision that’s not exactly the one I want, it’s our decision, not their decision. There have been times where a decision has been ten to one. At that point, that one has to walk out saying, “This is what the Lord has led us to do.”

Recall a time when your board was forced to face a difficult situation. What happened?

Three years ago serious allegations were made against me as a leader. The board did not jump to my defense immediately. It took those allegations seriously. I would have liked them to have immediately said, “Those charges are bogus.” But a healthy board is not “yes men”—they didn’t immediately say I was right. They worked to get to the bottom of the allegations and to move us on. As a result, we came through the kind of situation that can really shake a pastor and a ministry, and we came through it with stronger relationships.

Discuss

1. What statement in this interview stood out for you? What made it catch your attention?

2. What factors contributed to the Israelites’ failure to enter the Promised Land in Numbers 13–14? What do we need to do to guard against faulty judgment as a group?

3. Which of Osborne’s principles should we apply to our board?

Jesus Defined Discipleship

2011-06-12T07:40:00.000-05:00

I've been reading quite a bit in the subject of discipleship. The topic seems to be discussed more and more in meetings and dialogues. Whenever that happens it's easy to predict that the train is headed down the track. I'm thankful for the arrival. This time I hope that it's more than six week sessions and memorizing scripture. This time I am praying that it's a dangerous discipleship.

By the way, that happens to be the theme of camp meeting this year, "Dangerous Church"

Luke 14 records an encounter Jesus had with a crowd of people who were following Him. Perhaps this passage is the most definitive and clearest of Jesus' teachings about discipleship.

Now great crowds were traveling with Him. So He turned and said to them: “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, and even his own life—he cannot be My disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. “For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn't first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, after he has laid the foundation and cannot finish it, all the onlookers will begin to make fun of him, saying, ‘This man started to build and wasn't able to finish.' “Or what king, going to war against another king, will not first sit down and decide if he is able with 10,000 to oppose the one who comes against him with 20,000? If not, while the other is still far off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. In the same way, therefore, every one of you who does not say good-bye to all his possessions cannot be My disciple. “Now, salt is good, but if salt should lose its taste, how will it be made salty? It isn't fit for the soil or for the manure pile; they throw it out. Anyone who has ears to hear should listen!” (Luke 14:25-35).

Jesus stated at least four conditions for becoming His disciple:

1. Jesus talked about the priority of a relationship with Him.

2. Jesus discussed having the right purpose.

3. Jesus told prospective disciples that their commitment must be long-term.

4. Jesus stated that disciples must be willing to give up material possessions.

Do you see anymore in the text?

An Interrupting God

2011-05-29T08:01:00.000-05:00

Driving down the road this morning I was rehearsing in mind my thank you talk. "thank you for your faithful support to IL Ministries... It's making a difference in the lives of pastors and people across this state..." then I would share two or three things that are happening. Connect with the people in a closing statement.

The routine that I used to sweat over has become fun and comfortable. I love the discussions in the church lobbies that follow.

This morning is different because of the Word of the Lord. The word spoke to me and is causing me to rethink.

The Word of the Lord:

This is what the lord says: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the lord.

If there is anything to report, anything to share, anything to celebrate, any reason to give it's this... I want to know God more, I want to delight in His ways more, Jesus loves me and He loves you!

What else is there? When we speak to God, He listens.

There is a passage of Scripture that amazes me, it's in James: Elijah was a man, just like us! So, if Elijah, the man who called down fire. Elijah, the man who ran faster than any man ever before, Elijah, the man who never died... Just like me?

Oh to know God more and to boast not of works nor tell of my good deeds but to boast in this, God knows me!

10 Simple Things Good Pastors Say

2011-05-28T16:33:00.001-05:00

1. Please forgive me.

Better than "I'm sorry," which can often be followed with an "if" or a "but," these words indicate a humble heart. Bad pastors hide their faults behind the cloak of their authority, practice self-defense against all charges, and basically pretend. Good pastors know they mess up and admit it.

2. You're right.

Good pastors know they're not always (not usually?) the smartest, most "spiritual" person in the room. They are zealous to give credit and acknowledge achievement and intelligence, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it encourages and empowers others.

3. You're wrong.

Bad pastors chicken out when it comes to calling people on sin or biblical ignorance. Good pastors brave potential conflict and hurt feelings and say "You're wrong" in gentle but firm ways when necessary.

4. Jesus loves you.

Why did we stop saying this? I think because it became cliche. I'd love to see a recovery of the art of "Jesus loves you." Strategically said at times of others' admissions of failure, sin, or trouble, "Jesus loves you" is a fantastic way to speak the gospel into people's lives.

5. I love you.

I think one reason we stopped saying "Jesus loves you" to people is because we don't really love them ourselves. Might as well save the hypocrisy, eh? But good pastors lay their lives down for the sheep. Telling people you love them is a reminder to them and to you that sacrificial love is your calling.

6. Me too.

Next to "Grace is true" (see below), these might be the most important words in pastoral counseling. Bad pastors trade regularly in "Not me." In the pulpit and in the office, bad pastors set themselves apart from their congregations with tales of adventure, spirituality, and personal holiness. In the pulpit and in the office, good pastors talk of their own struggle and say, "Me too." I have seen entire countenances change when I've said some variation of "Me too."

7. Any time.

Of course you don't mean it literally. But you kinda do. Good pastors are available.

8. Thank you.

Bad pastors think they're owed. Good pastors know everything is a gift.

9. Grace is true.

Good pastors take the opportunity to glorify God by "talking up" his amazing grace every chance they get. We received a letter at the State Office just yesterday from a newly credentialed minister who God miraculously rescued from sin. I was reminded several times in the meeting "grace is amazing!" Bad pastors may say grace is true but the context of their teaching and the expectations in their leadership say "Your works must be this high to ride this ride."

10. You're approved.

Everyone wants to believe they have what it takes, which is why it's such a bummer to hear the first half of the gospel and learn we really don't. Don't leave your people hanging. Be a good news pastor. Bad pastors beat their people up with their failures. Bad pastors are always disappointed. Good pastors know grace is true and Jesus is Lord, so they are ready to challenge every self-despairing soul with the wonderful truth that in Christ we are approved by God. Good pastors tell people they do have what it takes when they have Jesus' righteousness. Do you trust Jesus? You're all set, then.

Be a Gospel Preacher!

Thoughts from Gospel Driven Church

A Good Sign

2011-05-19T09:47:00.000-05:00

I am sitting at a McDonalds in Southern IL with a great cup of coffee and a fruit and yogurt parfait. Great breakfast for weight watchers! I was finishing some reading and a family started filing out of the play area. At least 10 family members and one two year old. The two year old was screaming, "I don't want to leave!" She was crying and throwing a fit like I haven't seen in a while. I smiled as the mom and dad looked embarrassed. I refused to give them the look, "my kids never did that". Oh how I remember that look when our kids were throwing fits. Not me, I sympathetically smiled.

It made me think of a time several years ago on a Sunday Morning. I was sitting in the lobby of the church while 30 or so folks were finishing visiting for the day. I had already been at the church for six hours, two services, an impromptu meeting with the elders and I was tired. I wanted to go home and head for my Sunday Sabbath Nap.

Gene sat down next to me and said, "Someone would have forced me into this place four years ago and now they have to force me out." I have noticed that when the church is experiencing a healthy season, people aren't anxious to leave on Sundays. They enjoy one another. I remember seeing people praying for one another, laughing together, and crying together. I often talked about how to stand in the lobby of the church so that the circle remains open and inviting.

I know it's not the most vital sign of health in a church but it was an easy one to read. Do people enjoy sticking around? Are circles open to others? I am reminded that 90% of the people who are not in a church on a Sunday Morning don't feel the message is relevant and don't think 'we' care! So when people are sticking around 'caring' that's good, right?

A thought for Mother's Day

2011-05-06T22:26:00.000-05:00

I read this blog and thought that I would share it. I hope it gives pastors some fresh thoughts for Sunday. A friend of mine told me that Mothers Day was one of the toughest Sundays of they year.

Mother’s Day is a painful day for many in the church. Russell Moore offers a good suggestion [1] for pastors.

(Dr. Moore was recently on FamilyLife with Dennis Rainey and Bob Lepine, and you can read or listen [2] to their discussion on infertility, adoption, and the rearing of children who were adopted.)

I was also reminded of a section from a Mother’s Day sermon by John Piper [3] where he addressed some various issues of pain that can be associated with this day:

There are millions of single women, and many will stay single.

There is a grace from God for that—a very special grace and for some even a calling.

There are women who are single mothers and the marriage element in the calling I just described is painfully missing.

Jesus Christ has a grace for that.

There are women who are married and cannot, or, with their husbands, choose not, to have children.

Jesus has a grace for that.

Update: I thought this comment below from a wise brother was worth highlighting:

Pastors, if there are two things I would add they would be as follows.

First, please avoid making a distinction between mothers and non-mothers in a physical way (e.g. having all the moms stand up or giving flowers to all the moms). I well remember sitting in a Father’s Day service where all the dads were asked to stand. I felt like there was a huge neon sign over me that kept flashing “not able to have kids, not able to have kids.” My wife felt it keenly as well: she began to weep. The most pastorally sensitive leaders I know avoid this like the plague. Instead, they acknowledge the day and proceed to pray earnestly for the full range of emotions that are being experienced on that day (since it is often quite painful, not just for those unable to have kids, but for those estranged from their moms, those moms who are estranged from their kids, those who have recently lost a mother, etc.).

This leads to the second thing. As Moore indicates, it is important to recognize that there are many conflicting emotions going on during a Mother’s Day service. It is crucially important to pastor all the people through that time. Here is the prayer I would offer on Mother’s Day:

Heavenly Father, on a day like Mother’s Day there are so many different emotions that we bring to you.

Some of us bring emotions of deep gratitude and joy for the mothers you have blessed us with, mothers who have

loved us,

cared for us,

walked with us

and taught us how to live well.

We praise you for such love shown to us through our moms and we pray for all those who are moms, that you would give them:

strength where they are weak,

wisdom where they are unsure,

patience with the many demands placed upon them,

faith in your care for them and their families,

and love—deep love—for those whom you have given them to nurture.

Others of us bring emotions of sadness and pain. Some of us are saddened because our relationship with our mom is not easy, or was not easy, or perhaps never existed at all.

Please

meet us in our pain,

heal our hearts where they are wounded,

soften our hearts where they are hardened,

and enable us to forgive and to love even those who have hurt us.

Others of us are saddened because we long to be moms, long to have children, and yet are not able to do so.

Father of mercies,

give us comfort in our sadness,

trust in you despite unfulfilled longings,

and joy in knowing that you never stop loving us or having our best in mind.

We pray these things to you as our Father, who loved us before the world began, and will love us forevermore.

In Jesus’ name, amen!

Disturb Us Lord

2011-05-01T08:27:00.002-05:00

Disturb us, Lord when
We are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we have dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore!

Christianity Explored

2011-04-21T20:12:00.001-05:00

Hey friends,
This is a brand new website that I think could be very helpful to ministry.

www.christianityexplored.org

The idea is for this site to be a welcoming, unpressured and jargon-free place for people to explore the Christian faith. It is packed with answers to tough questions as well as some wonderfully engaging real-life stories of people who have come to faith in Christ Jesus.

Hope it helps.

Why the Insomnia of Jesus Matters to Us

2011-04-21T18:26:00.000-05:00

Why the Insomnia of Jesus Matters to Us

Ministry Boundaries

2011-04-09T11:29:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago my heart was broken. I had discovered a new young leader and was following his blog. I had spoken with people on his staff about some of the resources. I had thought about how I might use him to coach pastors in IL.

He wrote incredible blogs, great thoughts, sharp thinker. I opened his blog and the title was 'I have sinned and I am resigning as pastor.'

Why is it so difficult to set boundaries? Please know I am not throwing stones at this brother - but for the grace of God, there go I. But here are a few ideas that I have built into ministry over the years.

Lisa and I sat down many years ago and discussed boundaries that she would like for me to have as a pastor.
I don't meet with women alone with my door closed or alone in the building;
I don't counsel women without my wife;
She has access to my computer's history;
We communicate regularly about sexual needs and feelings;
She has full access to my facebook account;
We pray for each other so that we are partners in purity.

Lisa knows that regular intimacy with her is important to me. Many of you know that our lives are spent apart for days at a time because of travel. Selling a house in this economy, weighing all the options of where we should live, allowing our youngest daughter to figure out where she wants to live - has been the best decision for my family. Nonetheless, it has had challenges. The situation has presented us with times of growth and times of challenges for each of us.

Without the boundaries we had established years ago I don't know what these last two years would have been like. They might have been the same. But what if?

How are you and your spouse guarding against the attack of the enemy on your marriage? I implore you, err on the side of caution! Don't get paranoid about it but establish the boundaries that work for you.

Perhaps your spouse will need tight boundaries because of hurts in her life. Maybe there is a wide circle of trust. If you want to be a person of purity and integrity allow your spouse to speak into the boundaries.

I read this the other day: "Never forget that we are in a spiritual battle with real winners and losers. Though we may try to ignore it, we have three very real enemies (the world, the flesh and the devil) who are all more than happy to play their part in helping us flame out of ministry. In my experience, it also seems that the kingdom of darkness is particularly benefited when a pastor goes down because of moral failure because, like a grenade, it does damage on so many levels at once. To help me in my own struggle for purity, I reflect on this painful truth often. I picture what would happen to my wife, children, and church if I chose pride and pleasure over Jesus in a moment of weakness. It drives me to the Scriptures, my wife, and my ministry team to help me stay the course."

For the sake of all of us, please don’t become a statistic. Please pray for me and those those closest to you that we don’t become statistics. Please take the steps necessary to walk in integrity, and let’s cross the finish line strong together for the glory of God and the good of our families, churches, and the world around us.

Simple Church Conference - 8 more days!

2011-04-08T08:22:00.000-05:00

Are you running in many directions but going nowhere, doing good things but not being as effective as you could be, or does everything just seem too complicated?

Then do not miss this seminar! Illinois Ministries has booked author and speaker Thom Rainer for an up close and personal training session with the Churches of God in Illinois. Register your entire leadership team for this April 16th event (10 a.m.– 4 p.m.).

Rainer, president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, will talk about church leadership using principles from his book, Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples. A time will be given for questions and resources will be available. A respected pastor and researcher, Rainer has authored over 20 books including Simple Church, Transformational Churches, and his newest book, Simple Life.

All church leaders are invited to take advantage of this opportunity. Cost is $15 per person which includes lunch and materials. Register at www.ilcog.org

Seek First...

2011-04-07T05:30:00.002-05:00

Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, saw double-mindedness as the primary affliction of modern man. His book Purity of Heart Is to Will One Thing is a meditation on the biblical statement: “Purify your hearts, you double-minded” (James 4:8). The sickness, according to Kierkegaard, is really a failure to achieve an integrated life, a life that is focused on one thing. It is the failure to make an ultimate commitment to “the Good,” to “seeking first the kingdom of God.”

How do you get vision?

2011-04-06T22:14:00.003-05:00

Last week I asked the question, "how do you get vision?" I had several responses and a few of them were serious - well actually one was serious - the only person to respond that wasn't a pastor!

I realize that vision cannot be given to you in a book or program. The shelf life of that type of vision will be about as long as the next book or program. Just about the time you buy into a program and start to communicate it as the gospel - Bill Hybels comes out and says, "I was wrong!" Not that it ever happened to me (more than 3 times)

Thom Rainer, author of Simple Church and President of LifeWay Resources will be at Camp Warren on April 16th from 10-4 leading "Simple Church" Conference. I hope you will register for the event. More than anyone else, Thom helped me learn how to shape mission and vision and discipleship. Register here

Vision is a revelation that comes through study, prayer, dialogue, knowing your community, observing what God is doing...among other things. Here are a few questions that I have been using to help churches work through visioning discussions.

Pre-Vision Process Questions
What vision has preceded us in this church’s history?
What are our five-year trends?
What is our current state?
What is happening around us including other churches?
From what do our current members base their identity?

Vision Questions
What can we do better than 100 other churches?
What are we ultimately supposed to be doing? (mission)
Why do we do what we do? (values)
How do we do what we do? (strategy)
When are we successful? (measures milestones)
Where is God taking us? (vision + milestones)

Vision Rollout Questions
How will be build internal awareness of the new vision?
How do we create understanding and appreciation of the new vision at every level?
What common questions will need to be answered when the new vision is communicated?
What tools and resources need to be in place when the new vision is communicated?
How do we create urgency when rolling out the new vision?
How will we remind people that this is God’s vision?

Vision Integration Questions
Who is ultimately responsible for aligning and advancing the vision?
How will the vision be integrated into developing leadership?
How will the vision be integrated into intentional communication?
How will the vision be integrated into duplicatable processes?
How will the vision be integrated into compelling environments?
How will the vision be integrated into conscious culture?

Let me know if you add to these questions or if you have other ideas. These questions came from Will Mancini (Church Unique)

Simple Church Seminar

2011-04-05T12:33:00.000-05:00

Stay the Course

2011-03-31T10:58:00.000-05:00

Supposedly a 18 year old is suppose to make it through college in four years. It was my goal to graduate in four years when I attended Anderson College (now University) because of the debt that both my wife and I were receiving upon graduation. My question is, how can a 18 year old possibly know how to launch a major and stay the course? I suppose it is possible. I started in music, switched to education and ended in ministry, and I knew what I wanted! That change came because I sensed a calling to ministry. That one calling allowed be to set my course and by the grace of God and not great academics, I graduated in four years.

As I consult with churches and talk with leaders I am convinced that one of the main reasons churches are wandering in the desert is that they haven't heard the call. Or as my friend John called it today at lunch 'revelation received'. How can you stay the course when you don't know the direction or when you haven't heard the call?

Once you are convinced of the direction, ministry is not about spinning plates or new programs. It's about living each day on mission. It's not about being driven but showing up where your body is and recognizing the moments for what they are... it is what it is!

I had a pastor ask last night, "how do you get a vision?" I am going to write about that next but would love to hear your comments before I write...

5 Reasons a Church Stops Growing

2011-03-26T11:26:00.000-05:00

The original thought of this blog came from Ron Edminson's blog. Google Reader allows me to follow several bloggers including a few of our own pastors in IL. My favorite bloggers are people that I didn't know existed 6 months ago. It's fast, easy and gives you more ideas on anything you want than you can imagine.

Most books that I am reading now have come from recommendations from blogs.

Now before you read the 5 Reasons a Church Stops Growing ... I know that God is ultimately in charge of a church's growth. There are times where God is giving a season of rest and preparation for a church for something to come. In some situations, God may have even taken His hand from the church like blowing out a candle...

The book of Acts models for us that God is into church growth! It’s our mission as believers to produce disciples, and our model example of the first century church was a growing church, so outside the God factor, there are usually reasons for stagnation in a church. Because the church is an organization made up of people, these reasons are often similar to those you may find true as to why growth stalls in the life of an organization also.
Here are few possible reasons:
You get comfortable…It’s okay to be comfortable, but when you hang out there too long, it can be dangerous, because you stop trying new things to spur growth and excitement.
You quit dreaming…Dreams inspire, challenge, and grow people and organizations. You’ll never dream bigger than the dreams God has for you or your church.
You stop taking risks…You can’t succeed at anything without a measure of risk. Playing it safe never grows anything. The call of God always involves risk-taking.
You start maintaining…When you fall into the mode of protecting what you have, you’ll be less likely to encourage growth for fear of losing ground.
You fail to walk by faith...Especially for the church…we are a faith-based organization. If you aren’t walking by faith in what you are doing…it’s impossible to please God. (That’s Biblical…look it up!)

Friends, I am working every day to create healthy growing churches in the Church of God in IL. It is an honor to serve you and my Savior this way. I am praying for you.

Urgency - family matters

2011-03-11T06:49:00.000-06:00

I woke up yesterday in Decatur, IL ready for my two final days in the office before heading home and working from Shorewood next week. I was looking forward to breakfast with my wife, and lunch, and dinner.... But then then the phone rang.

My uncle who lives in AZ had a few hours to live and I needed to go be with my aunt. My brother and cousins have been changing turns during the illness. However, by this time we were literally handing off assignments so my aunt would not be alone. They are 94 and have never had children. We have been their kids!

My point- it's amazing how urgency can change plans to a busy and well ordered life. That's the life of every pastor... The day is planned for sermon writing and someone calls for counseling. You plan to run to the hospital and take the afternoon off but you end up visiting with the family for the afternoon. You are crunching for a meeting and your youth pastor needs coaching at Starbucks.

Here is what I love about pastors - you see these interruptions as holy interruptions and trust that God will take our well developed plans and make it okay!

God bless you and may your holy interruptions this day be blessed.

I have to go board the plane with my holy interruption.

Love ya!

Oh What A Ride

2011-02-23T09:55:00.000-06:00

*taken from newsletter article from Rock Springs Church of God in Decatur, IL

Don't know if you like amusement parks? If you do maybe you have said something like, "Oh what a ride!" I know I have said that many times I had a thrill on a rollercaoster. I have that same feeling pastoring Rock Springs Church of God. Let me just say it after serving the last 7 months as your pastor, "Oh what a ride"

It has been the thrill of my life to preach, teach, visit, evangelize, disciple and love the people. Thanks so much for getting on the ride with me and experiencing the thrill together.

The theme of our church is, "Becoming all things to all people". It is a challenge to serve. It is a challenge to get beyond our prejudices. It excites me so much to see you catch the vision. We witnessed this by you serving Enterprise Elementary through your giving of food baskets, warm clothes and volunteering each week. I get positive reports on how we have been affecting student's lifes. The eighty Christmas Shoe Boxes that were donated show your love for children abroad and I just want to thank you for your commitment to missions. So proud to see you serve, in whatever capacity that you serve.

We have seen our children's ministry and youth ministry grow. What amazing leaders that have been sent to invest in our most prized possession, our children. For without them both the leaders and the students, we would not see the vision of Rock Springs carried through generation after generation. Im so excited to see what God has in store for them.

Rock Springs continues to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For without Him, none of what I wrote about would be possible. It is only by His strength, spirit and power that we exist. I am glad to just be on His team.

*taken from Pastor Tim Lusitana's article

THE FEW MORE DETAILS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Before I tell you the rest of the story I want you to notice how many times Pastor Tim encourages the volunteers with great words like, "Im proud of you." As I reflect back over 25 years I wish I would have said that more... Just a thought now for the rest of the story.

Rock Springs had less than 20 people in July 2010. They didn't know what to do until someone connected them with Pastor Tim. Pastor Tim was just starting the search for a pastoral position and went to talk with Rock Springs. He had been a youth pastor at Rock Springs several years earlier. He agreed to candidate if they would agree to change... to embrace his vision for a missional church... to let go of a few sacred cows... to be open to new things...

Desperate people do desperate things and they said "Yes!"

Now let me say to them - Im proud of you!

He and his dear wife Adrian started the ministry at Rock Springs on all cylinders. God has sent experienced youth leaders, a dynamic children's pastor, a great worship team to lead with them. It's hard to count the new conversions and baptisms. For the last three weeks the church has had over 135 people in attendance. They are out of parking and are praying about starting their first capital fund campaign for future ministry projects.

I believe we have only seen the beginning of what God is going to do with Rock Springs and the leadership team over the next 10 years.

Oh what a ride! And Tim - Im proud of you too!

The Power of Two Words

2011-02-23T09:32:00.000-06:00

Lincoln Avenue Church of God
Dixon, IL

On February 20, 2011, Lincoln Avenue Church of God installed Mike and Carrie Worrell as their new pastor. Prior to the Worrell's coming the congregation had suffered tremendous losses and were questioning if they would survive a few more years. The energy level was about a 5%. They were concerned over survival, paying their bills, boring worship, no vision.

Mike, who grew up in the church was home for a visit and was asked to preach. The few members called everyone they knew to announce that Mike was home and he agreed to preach and his wife was going to sing and lead worship. They started calling the service a homecoming.

The place was full. For one Sunday, the few members of Lincoln Ave Church of God thought, what if this could happen every Sunday. They asked Mike if he and Carried would be interested in coming home to Dixon to pastor. Mike said "no". He was pastoring a growing church in Southeast MO and his wife Carrie was full time worship leader on staff as well. The church in MO had grown significantly under their ministry and they were excited. The people at Lincoln Ave. kept praying.

When the Worrells returned to MO, they couldn't leave the experience in Dixon behind. They started praying and felt like God was telling them to go to Dixon. They called the few people in Dixon and said they felt like God was telling them to come home. The people in Dixon said, "we knew He would!"

The Worrells left a nice home, two full time jobs, and uprooted their three beautiful daughters and moved to Dixon after Christmas. They moved into a parsonage that needed significant upgrades. Both he and Carried have found full time jobs. The kids are in a new school.

As if you are not moved yet - the story gets better.

The last time I was in Dixon with 12 people I could see no hope! A few days ago I preached the installation service for Mike and Carrie. I am telling you the place is full of energy. Young people are singing in a worship team, they had an ensemble sing that was spectacular, the laughter and excitement is contagious, a children and youth ministry has been started. There were a minimum of 90 people in attendance maybe even 100. The fellowship hall was so full after the service people had to walk sideways through the aisle. I cannot express in words what I felt as I spoke with people on Sunday - brand new christians, people that have returned to home, seekers... it was thrilling.

The church is meeting next week to already revisit Pastor Mike's salary. Much needed work on the facility is being done. When you plan a budget with 12 people giving and in 8 weeks grow to 80 people you have a few extra dollars to do ministry.

I lift up Christ! I write this to remind you - Jesus did this! Jesus gave the hope to Lincoln Ave Church of God. Jesus spoke to Mike and Carrie. Jesus touched their daughters to make them okay with the move. Jesus is moving in the hearts of new people at Lincoln Ave. And Jesus will continue to move in the city of Dixon for his glory. All Jesus needs is for you to believe and stay open to His movement.

Oh the power of two words, "Yes Jesus!"

State Prayer Retreat

2011-02-16T13:52:00.000-06:00

The Quest of Serving in Your Sweet Spot

2011-02-02T16:48:00.000-06:00

I believe that God created each of us with a perfect place to fit. I just finished writing an article for Illinois’ LINK and I mention the ‘sweet spot’. I think the sweet spot exists within every person. I think God shaped us to have a perfect spot to serve. I’m not getting all Joel Olsteen on you. We still go through tough times. We still work hard. We still seek God’s will.

Yesterday I finished an Assessment on me as a pastor/leader. The findings were painful to hear but certainly were a direct hit. Ben Franklin said, “there are three things extremely hard: steel, a diamond, and to know one’s self.” Getting to know yourself better allows you to understand where the sweet spot is. What are the things in your life that you can become so involved with that nothing else matters and you would do it for free? You are getting close to your sweet spot?

When I am not in my sweet spot, I work harder that I should and get less results. I begin to worry about things that I can’t control. I am easily distracted by all the things that I could be doing. I try to convince myself that watching television is “being in the world but not of the world.”

When I am in my sweet spot, results flow from my work. I have a dramatic sense that what I did mattered today. I have a real joy in my service.

Where is your sweet spot? Is it study, helping someone, giving to a need, writing an article, preaching, teaching, leading others...?

Will Macini says that if you aren’t serving in your sweet spot, you will work in your sweat spot. He uses words like Lack of vision, exhaustion, monotony, distractions, and jealousy. I’ve been there and don’t want to go back. The more I can discover who I am, the better I can find my sweet spot. I’m on the quest. You wanna join me?

Dry Bones

2011-01-09T20:13:00.000-06:00

Tiredness grounds me into a quiet stupor of the spirit.

I yearn to be inspired, to be lifted up, set free beyond the place of deadness.

The struggle goes on, however, and you and I, God, we exist together with seemingly little communion.

Yet in the deepest part of me, I believe in you, perhaps more strongly than ever.

I am learning you as a God of silence, of darkness, deep and strong.

I do not wrestle anymore only wait, only wait for you to bring my dry bones into dancing once again.

Joyce Rupp

May I Have This Dance?

All I Hear Is Silence

2011-01-05T09:01:00.001-06:00

I have a favorite spot for my quiet time. When I’m in Decatur it’s a chair next to a window that overlooks a huge oak tree and the corner of Camp Warren’s Lake. I can also see my office but I try to position the chair so that the office is not in view. Otherwise I end up thinking about the long list of people to call, articles to write, books to read, preparation for an upcoming weekend with a church and… you guessed it, my quiet time of prayer becomes a “thanks for this day Lord, I’m off to serve you!”

This morning, the chair was positioned just right. The stack of work on the desk was not on my mind. It was a sweet time. A time of the refreshing presence of the Lord. But it was cold. I was sitting in my shorts and a t-shirt with a quilt over my legs but I couldn’t get warm. The draft from the mobile home window was like a fan blowing cold air directly on me.

My spirit was warm. Thoughts in my mind were rich. My body was cold. As easy as you think it would have been to get up from that chair, I just couldn’t. You see, for me, moments of God’s presence don’t hit me every morning. I know it does for some and I’m confident that it’s my issue and not God. I can blame it on ministry issues, family stuff, or preoccupation with something but the truth is, I don’t always take the time to press into the presence of God. Life is too loud that sometimes all I hear is silence.

Even in the silence I know that God loves, guides and cares for me. What usually emerges on the other side of silence is a day like today when I press into the presence and stand more whole and complete. I’m not advocating for silence. I’m just saying, it happens. I don’t fear the silence for I’ve been in this long enough to know that I will pass through the strong, competent hands of the Savior when the silence is gone. It’s sweet. Once I stand on the other side of the experience, I say with the author of Romans, that ‘nothing in all creation will be able to separate me (or freeze me) from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Do #'s really matter?

2010-11-21T14:24:00.000-06:00

You can’t measure anything unless you count. How do you know if a diet is working – count the pounds. How do you know if your car is getting optimum gas mileage – count the miles per gallon. How do you know if you baptized 10 people this year – count!

Numbers are important. They are not the definition to everything. There are times that growth is occurring in the life of a congregation and the numbers might not show it. Unless of course you count the increased number of people praying – studying – meeting together. Ahh, you see even when some numbers don’t show growth other numbers do. You can’t get around it – numbers are important.

Numbers are important in the Bible – we shouldn’t be scared of them… 10 Bridesmaids, Forgive 70 times 7, Peter denied Jesus 3 times, Jesus spent 3 days in the tomb. There are 10 commandments and the shepherd left 99 sheep to search for 1.

How do you know if God is moving? I’ve heard, “we feel that God is moving.” That’s weak because some will say, they don’t feel a thing. Feelings are too subjective when determining if things are moving forward. You have to know numbers. It’s a strong method of determining if things are working.

In India – 30,000 people a day are being added to the church. That number is doubled for China. In Pakistan one church planted 6 more churches in one week! While in America – 16% of people far from God are saying – no thank you! But think about that before you shake your head in disgust. 84% are thinking about it.

Reggie McNeal recently said, the church should be like an airport – it helps get people to the right destination. The airport is never the destination. Growing the church is not the mission. The church doesn’t have a mission – this mission has the church.

How can we count if the mission has us?

Consumerism

2010-11-01T09:22:00.000-05:00

I attended the SLAMA 5^th Sunday Unity Service last night. Jeanette Flynn gave an awesome talk. There was too much to relate in a blog but I do want to touch on one side subject she talked about, “consumerism”. I’ve been thinking about this - in a good way and a bad way.

The bad way is – followers of Christ being consumers. We are called to follow Christ through the way of the cross. We need to grow up on things like whether the music speaks to you or the preaching is as good as whoever you happen to listen to on radio, podcast, or livechurch.tv – followers of Christ need to get up, engage in ministry and stop acting like ‘everybody else has a better show than your church.’

We also need to stop acting like the world shouldn’t be consumers of the church. That’s out culture. In many churches I’ve seen noses snarl at the thought of people in the community viewing them like consumers. I’ve heard this type of saying, “The church is not called to be catering to every whim granting newcomers that comes through our doors. If they don’t like it, they can find another church. “

I’m staying at a Holiday Inn waiting for a meeting in the St. Louis area in a few hours. I like Holiday Inn; I like the breakfast, I like their point systems, I like that they call me “Eric” when I check in. I like their soap.” I could stay somewhere cheaper but I choose to drive early in the morning and late at night to skip staying in too many hotels because when it’s absolutely necessary – I like Holiday Inn.

I could stay at adequate places. There’s Hampton Inn, Fairfield and even a good looking Motel 6 (although I have to use 4 towels to dry off! Where do they find those tiny towels?) but I choose Holiday Inn because it’s better than good and better than adequate.

When a newcomer attends your church – like it or not – they are looking for affirmation and value. They are looking for a place to say, “you matter!” I know we are called to lift up Jesus and leave the results to him. I submit to you, however, the fish and the bread – I am confident it was the best fish sandwich that those 5,000 + ever tasted. And the wine; it had to be the best tasting wine, would Jesus dare serve wine before it was time?

If lost people matter to God and we know they do… Our assignment is to make sure people can see Jesus. This is the very reason we must meet them where they are – consumers. We must greet them and wow them with unconditional acceptance and respect. Our goal should be to do anything and everything to help people see Christ.

John 6.26 – You’ve come looking for me not because you saw God in my actions but because I fed you, filled your stomachs and for free (The Message)

They were certainly consumers and Jesus knew it but the amazing thing is Jesus didn’t’ stop healing or performing miracles. He continued to play into the people’s consumer’s mind set. He did this because He wanted them to see the Father. He didn’t seem too worried about motives even thought they were self serving.

Here’s what the pastor from Granger said - The people who come through your doors on the weekend are initially making decisions as consumers. Whether they return rests on their entire experiences. They leave asking the same questions they ask of business throughout the week. “Was this worth my time? Do the people care about me? Am I valued here? How will guest answer these questions?

I have to go check out of my room – wait – no I don’t, I have a late check-out because I am a Priority Club Member! Ahh… the Holiday Inn experience.

Engaging God in Worship

2010-10-21T10:08:00.000-05:00

I have not been a member of a church community on a regular basis for 16 months. I miss the idea of belonging to an every week worshipping community. But how blessed I feel to be able to have worshiped with so many new friends and to experience some awesome times of worship.

I started ministry in 1984 leading worship, directing choirs and trying to craft fresh worship experiences. I still have a deep passion to see people experience God in worship. Every Sunday, whether I’m in a Spanish church, black church, a small church singing out of a hymnal or a blended worship with words on a screen; I still want fellow worshipers to engage God in worship and experience true fellowship with one another.

Here are a few questions that I wish pastors and worship leaders could honestly reflect on every Sunday afternoon (or at least by Monday Evening). Try it for a few weeks and see what happens. By the way, I think most people are answering these questions each week in some way or another so we might as well be honest with ourselves regarding the highest act of adoration to God.

1. Did the worship service have a clear and unified flow?

2. Were all the transitions smooth? Did the service flow well?

3. Was the worship God-centered and bible based?

4. Did the worship call for a response? Was there clear application?

5. Was the environment positive and conducive to worship?

6. Was there a good balance between celebration and reflection?

7. Would guests be able to follow the worship service meaningfully?

8. Would newcomers feel like “visitors” or “guests”?

9. Did the service relate well to the needs of the worshipers?

10. Was the congregation fully engaged in what was happening?

11. Were the worship leaders prepared for their roles?

12. Evaluate the pace of worship – fast-paced / drag /

Pastor's and Leadership Conference

2010-10-14T15:23:00.001-05:00

If you had one thing that changed your life - you would do anything to let others know about. A few years ago someone gave me a copy of Simple Church by Thom Rainer. I practically highlighted the entire book. So many of the things he said I had thought but didn't have the guts to say it! I ordered copies for my leaders and it wasn't long before they started saying to me "Let's do this!"

It transformed the way we 'did church'! Our structure, our staffing, our schedules, our programs... everything was changed for the sake of the mission.

April 16, 2011 - Thom Rainer, author of "Simple Church" will be leading a Pastor and Leadership Conference at Camp Warren for the entire day!

How sweet is this? The guy who wrote the book that changed my ministry is spending an entire day with the pastors and leaders of Illinois.

Make sure you have the date saved on your schedule. Don't let anything get in the way of this event!