As many of you know, I can’t stand cold, snow, or ice. Growing up in San Diego spoiled me. Debbie and I often talk about when my Kansas educational working years (10 years to go) are over, moving to the south or southwest (sorry Evan not Texas) parts of the United States where it is warmer.
I am looking forward to those winters where a cold day is around 60 degrees, where I can wear shorts 10 months out of the year. When I don’t have to worry about buses in ditches; getting chewed out by parents for not calling school off; will the school buildings have heat, and if every teacher, staff member or high school student driving to school will get there safely. I won’t miss it at all.
But if God leads Debbie and I south (except for Texas) we won’t retire. There is so much we want to do. I would like to own a donut shop. I want to cook donuts each morning at 5:00 a.m. I get up early anyway. What better way to start a day than to cook donuts to happy hungry people? I would also like to teach part-time at the university level teaching future teachers what education is really all about. Debbie has many things she would like to do.
Fulltime rtirement, I don’t believe, will ever be an option for us. We have always been on the go and just can’t picture ourselves doing nothing.
But what really bothers me is when Christians retire from fulltime service to God. As a middle-ager getting closer to AARP, I now can speak on a subject that has bothered me for years. Why do so many Christians, when they reach those golden years when they should have more time than ever for church work, decide to retire permanently from the work of the church?
I want to commend so many of our Central members that have reached those years that are still involved in so many ministry programs. We have senior saints that are involved and leading in so many good works: personal evangelism, WBS, MOPS, VBS, Bible Class teachers, Monday for the Master, mission trips, and a variety of other great outreach programs. What better example can you ever be for those younger to see you actively taking a part in the daily work of the church.
Remember retirement is never an option in the Lord’s Church. I can’t even find it in scripture.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
We Can't Do MegaChurch Anymore
Growing up in the youth group at the "L Street Church" in San Diego was an awesome experience. Great youth group, activities galore, youth rallies, huge bus ministry, 400 in worship.
When we moved to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma we became members at the BA church that averaged 850 on Sunday morning. What a great family to be a part of.
But, just down the road in Tulsa was a church that was "on fire" with a huge bus ministry and a charismatic minister. The Garnett Road Church of Christ was busting at the seams. 2,000 in worship, hundreds of buses, hosting the Tulsa Workshop with 20,000 people at the Fair Grounds each spring break. It was an exciting time to be a member of the Church of Christ in Tulsa. The following article in Christianity Today talks about the decline of the Garnett Church. It’s an excellent article that should make all leaders rethink the importance of ministry and people….
http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2007/001/1.49.html
When we moved to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma we became members at the BA church that averaged 850 on Sunday morning. What a great family to be a part of.
But, just down the road in Tulsa was a church that was "on fire" with a huge bus ministry and a charismatic minister. The Garnett Road Church of Christ was busting at the seams. 2,000 in worship, hundreds of buses, hosting the Tulsa Workshop with 20,000 people at the Fair Grounds each spring break. It was an exciting time to be a member of the Church of Christ in Tulsa. The following article in Christianity Today talks about the decline of the Garnett Church. It’s an excellent article that should make all leaders rethink the importance of ministry and people….
http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2007/001/1.49.html
Monday, January 29, 2007
Great Weekend at Central
What a great weekend we had at Central. The Youth Rally was a great success. Yesterday our young men led us in worship as Evan encouraged us to rid our lives of those "secret sins".
So many I would like to thank for making our rally a success:
Scott and Angie
Kurt
Debbie
Ruthann
Josh
Evan
Steve
Heather
The Central Teens
All those bringing cookies and drinks
Our following speakers:
Mitch
Toby
Bruce
Allisson
Jenna
Others:
New Reign
Oklahoma Christian
York College
ACU
and the youth groups and sponsors from Northside in Wichita, Hutchinson, Emporia, and Salina.
We hope to make this an annual event.
So many I would like to thank for making our rally a success:
Scott and Angie
Kurt
Debbie
Ruthann
Josh
Evan
Steve
Heather
The Central Teens
All those bringing cookies and drinks
Our following speakers:
Mitch
Toby
Bruce
Allisson
Jenna
Others:
New Reign
Oklahoma Christian
York College
ACU
and the youth groups and sponsors from Northside in Wichita, Hutchinson, Emporia, and Salina.
We hope to make this an annual event.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Youth Rally Saturday
Please be praying for our winter rally tomorrow. Mitch Wilburn, New Reign and several others will challenge our kids to look at those secret thoughts and sins that often entangle our lives.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
State of the Union
Did you watch the State of the Union address last night? Thought both political parties showed a real genuine since of respect. About time. Hopefully they will work together to get something done to help the people of the United States and bring our troops home from the Middle East. Pray for our leaders today!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Dreams
Ever watch someone that is waiting for something?
Ever have to watch someone that is anticipating something that they think will never occur?
Ever watch someone that is anticipating something so much that the only thing they have on their mind is the big event that will occur any day?
Watching Craig over the past few months has been an up and down journey. Craig has had a dream that Debbie and I have supported and prayed about and watched him deal with for several months.
Craig is my dreamer. He is a lot like me. He loves to travel. He loves cultures. He loves new experiences. He loves new adventures. He doesn’t like the ordinary.
Craig has had a dream to major in fashion merchandising for a few years. He has always been intrigued with styles and what he felt he could contribute to the fashion industry.
With that dream, he began his journey to find a college where he could receive a degree and gain valuable internships and experience.
We, as a family, looked at hundreds of possibilities. Coast to coast. After much prayer, Craig decided to “go for it” and find the best possible place where the fashion industry is at its highest, New York City.
Last October, Craig decided to apply to the University of New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan.
The past four months we have seen Craig agonize, because of the wait and emotional rollercoaster, because it was so important to him.
Yesterday at 9:15 a.m., Craig burst into my office and gave me the biggest hug I have ever had as the words came out that, “Dad, I made it. I was accepted to FIT”. The tears began to fall very quickly as God blessed Craig with acceptance into this great institution of higher learning.
Waiting is difficult but it makes us stronger and more trusting in our Heavenly Father. During the past few months, we talked about trusting God and the plan God has for Craig’s life.
After Craig left my office to go tell Debbie, I thanked God for this special blessing.
Dreams are so important. God’s leading and direction is essential to becoming what He wants us to be.
Craig, may God lead you to New York City to become a vital part of His church and a positive light for the fashion industry in the years to come.
Remember, God will lead you if you trust in Him!
Ever have to watch someone that is anticipating something that they think will never occur?
Ever watch someone that is anticipating something so much that the only thing they have on their mind is the big event that will occur any day?
Watching Craig over the past few months has been an up and down journey. Craig has had a dream that Debbie and I have supported and prayed about and watched him deal with for several months.
Craig is my dreamer. He is a lot like me. He loves to travel. He loves cultures. He loves new experiences. He loves new adventures. He doesn’t like the ordinary.
Craig has had a dream to major in fashion merchandising for a few years. He has always been intrigued with styles and what he felt he could contribute to the fashion industry.
With that dream, he began his journey to find a college where he could receive a degree and gain valuable internships and experience.
We, as a family, looked at hundreds of possibilities. Coast to coast. After much prayer, Craig decided to “go for it” and find the best possible place where the fashion industry is at its highest, New York City.
Last October, Craig decided to apply to the University of New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan.
The past four months we have seen Craig agonize, because of the wait and emotional rollercoaster, because it was so important to him.
Yesterday at 9:15 a.m., Craig burst into my office and gave me the biggest hug I have ever had as the words came out that, “Dad, I made it. I was accepted to FIT”. The tears began to fall very quickly as God blessed Craig with acceptance into this great institution of higher learning.
Waiting is difficult but it makes us stronger and more trusting in our Heavenly Father. During the past few months, we talked about trusting God and the plan God has for Craig’s life.
After Craig left my office to go tell Debbie, I thanked God for this special blessing.
Dreams are so important. God’s leading and direction is essential to becoming what He wants us to be.
Craig, may God lead you to New York City to become a vital part of His church and a positive light for the fashion industry in the years to come.
Remember, God will lead you if you trust in Him!
Monday, January 22, 2007
Central Youth Rally
Central Church of Christ
Youth Ministries
Topeka, Kansas
Winter Rally 07
January 27, 2007
Noon-6:00 p.m.
“My Secret”
Who are you when no one’s looking? What secret are you holding in that nobody will ever know? What are the things you have tried to stuff way down deep….but it still seems to linger somewhere right under your skin? We all have them. Or do they have us?
The Central Church of Christ Youth Ministries would like to invite you and your youth group to our Winter Youth Rally on Saturday, January 27, from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Central Church of Christ in Topeka, Kansas.
The theme for the 2007 rally is “My Secret”. Looking at those secret sins in our daily lives that keep us from a true relationship with our Heavenly Father.
We are looking forward to a great day and outstanding classes, singing and fellowship.
Our keynote speaker is Mitch Wilburn from the Park Plaza Church of Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Several of us have heard Mitch at Youth in Action, Winterfest and Camp Zenith.
We have breakout sessions led by Bruce Dimmick (Salina), Evan Burdan (Central), Toby Levering (Wichita), Allison Carroll (Burelson, Texas) and Jenna Compton (Amarillo, Texas).
Singing will be led by Josh Yoho from Central.
A concert will be provided by New Reign from Oklahoma Christian University.
Lunch (pizza) will be provided at noon.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
We would appreciate an RSVP so we can get an accurate lunch count. Please RSVP at 785-233-6157 or e-mail at: centcofc@swbell.net
We look forward to a great day of fun and fellowship!
See you on the 27th.
Youth Ministries
Topeka, Kansas
Winter Rally 07
January 27, 2007
Noon-6:00 p.m.
“My Secret”
Who are you when no one’s looking? What secret are you holding in that nobody will ever know? What are the things you have tried to stuff way down deep….but it still seems to linger somewhere right under your skin? We all have them. Or do they have us?
The Central Church of Christ Youth Ministries would like to invite you and your youth group to our Winter Youth Rally on Saturday, January 27, from noon to 6:00 p.m. at the Central Church of Christ in Topeka, Kansas.
The theme for the 2007 rally is “My Secret”. Looking at those secret sins in our daily lives that keep us from a true relationship with our Heavenly Father.
We are looking forward to a great day and outstanding classes, singing and fellowship.
Our keynote speaker is Mitch Wilburn from the Park Plaza Church of Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Several of us have heard Mitch at Youth in Action, Winterfest and Camp Zenith.
We have breakout sessions led by Bruce Dimmick (Salina), Evan Burdan (Central), Toby Levering (Wichita), Allison Carroll (Burelson, Texas) and Jenna Compton (Amarillo, Texas).
Singing will be led by Josh Yoho from Central.
A concert will be provided by New Reign from Oklahoma Christian University.
Lunch (pizza) will be provided at noon.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
We would appreciate an RSVP so we can get an accurate lunch count. Please RSVP at 785-233-6157 or e-mail at: centcofc@swbell.net
We look forward to a great day of fun and fellowship!
See you on the 27th.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Small Groups
A few years ago Debbie and I were invited to join a group of young adults on Sunday mornings for Bible study and fellowship. The Young Professional/College Class invited us to begin teaching their class when Jeff and Santhi moved to New York City. It has been a blessing for us to be a part of this group as we have studied and fellowshipped with this great group of young adults.
The highlight of each month is our third Sunday small group fellowship and devotional. We have been invited to so many members’ homes for evenings of spiritual feasts as well as some great food and fellowship.
Jesus modeled to us something we all need ~ loving relationships with each other. He selected twelve men to whom He entrusted His vision, and scripture tells us those twelve men turned the known world upside down. This is our model of the church’s first SMALL Group.
SMALL Groups connect people most naturally with others who have similar interests and passions. SMALL Groups can often meet individual’s needs so we can grow and mature in Christ.
May God continue to bless this group as we pursue our personal relationship with Him and with others.
The highlight of each month is our third Sunday small group fellowship and devotional. We have been invited to so many members’ homes for evenings of spiritual feasts as well as some great food and fellowship.
Jesus modeled to us something we all need ~ loving relationships with each other. He selected twelve men to whom He entrusted His vision, and scripture tells us those twelve men turned the known world upside down. This is our model of the church’s first SMALL Group.
SMALL Groups connect people most naturally with others who have similar interests and passions. SMALL Groups can often meet individual’s needs so we can grow and mature in Christ.
May God continue to bless this group as we pursue our personal relationship with Him and with others.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Maintenance or Mission?
This was was written by Harold Percy. It should generate some great dialogue. The consensus is that it does a pretty good job of describing the transition (and the pain brought on by such a transition) that churches are experiencing at the moment:
MAINTENANCE OR MISSION?
1. In measuring the effectiveness, the maintenance congregation asks, “How many pastoral visits are being made? The mission congregation asks, “How many disciples are being made?”
2. When contemplating some form of change, the maintenance congregation says, “If this proves upsetting to any of our members, we won’t do it.” The mission congregation says, “If this will help us reach someone on the outside, we will take the risk and do it.”
3. When thinking about change, the majority of members in a maintenance congregation ask, “How will this affect me?” The majority of members in the mission congregation ask, “Will this increase our ability to reach those outside?”
4. When thinking of its vision for ministry, the maintenance congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our past.” The mission congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our future.”
5. The minister in the maintenance congregation says to the newcomer, “I’d like to introduce you to some of our members.” In the mission congregation the members say, “We’d like to introduce you to our minister.”
6. When confronted with a legitimate pastoral concern, the elder in the maintenance congregation asks, “How can I meet this need?” The elder in the mission congregation asks, “How can this need be met?”
7. The maintenance congregation seeks to avoid conflict at any cost (but rarely succeeds). The mission congregation understands that conflict is the price of progress, and is willing to pay the price. It understands that it cannot take everyone with it. This causes some grief, but it does not keep it from doing what needs to be done.
8. The leadership style in the maintenance congregation is primarily managerial, where leaders try to keep everything in order and running smoothly. The leadership style in a mission congregation is primarily transformational, casting a vision of what can be, and marching off the map in order to bring the vision into reality.
9. The maintenance congregation is concerned with their congregation, its organizations and structure, its constitutions and committees. The mission congregation is concerned with the culture, with understanding how secular people think and what makes them tick. It tries to determine their needs and their points of accessibility to the Gospel.
10. When thinking about growth, the maintenance congregations asks, “How many Lutherans live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?” The mission congregation asks, “How many unchurched people live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?”
11. The maintenance congregation looks at the community and asks, “How can we get these people to support our congregation?” The mission congregation asks, “How can the Church support these people?”
12. The maintenance congregation thinks about how to save their congregation. The mission congregation thinks about how to reach the world.
MAINTENANCE OR MISSION?
1. In measuring the effectiveness, the maintenance congregation asks, “How many pastoral visits are being made? The mission congregation asks, “How many disciples are being made?”
2. When contemplating some form of change, the maintenance congregation says, “If this proves upsetting to any of our members, we won’t do it.” The mission congregation says, “If this will help us reach someone on the outside, we will take the risk and do it.”
3. When thinking about change, the majority of members in a maintenance congregation ask, “How will this affect me?” The majority of members in the mission congregation ask, “Will this increase our ability to reach those outside?”
4. When thinking of its vision for ministry, the maintenance congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our past.” The mission congregation says, “We have to be faithful to our future.”
5. The minister in the maintenance congregation says to the newcomer, “I’d like to introduce you to some of our members.” In the mission congregation the members say, “We’d like to introduce you to our minister.”
6. When confronted with a legitimate pastoral concern, the elder in the maintenance congregation asks, “How can I meet this need?” The elder in the mission congregation asks, “How can this need be met?”
7. The maintenance congregation seeks to avoid conflict at any cost (but rarely succeeds). The mission congregation understands that conflict is the price of progress, and is willing to pay the price. It understands that it cannot take everyone with it. This causes some grief, but it does not keep it from doing what needs to be done.
8. The leadership style in the maintenance congregation is primarily managerial, where leaders try to keep everything in order and running smoothly. The leadership style in a mission congregation is primarily transformational, casting a vision of what can be, and marching off the map in order to bring the vision into reality.
9. The maintenance congregation is concerned with their congregation, its organizations and structure, its constitutions and committees. The mission congregation is concerned with the culture, with understanding how secular people think and what makes them tick. It tries to determine their needs and their points of accessibility to the Gospel.
10. When thinking about growth, the maintenance congregations asks, “How many Lutherans live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?” The mission congregation asks, “How many unchurched people live within a twenty-minute drive of this church?”
11. The maintenance congregation looks at the community and asks, “How can we get these people to support our congregation?” The mission congregation asks, “How can the Church support these people?”
12. The maintenance congregation thinks about how to save their congregation. The mission congregation thinks about how to reach the world.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
The Missional Church (Part 4)
The following came from Mike Cope's blog, Minister for the Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, Texas. Interesting thoughts......
I spoke with two men.
One is unhappy at church. Some changes have him feeling uncomfortable. He just doesn’t like it. He doesn’t want to be so uncomfortable. He doesn’t care for the way the church is heading. He’s exploring other options.
The other has never been happier. He was lost and is now found. He was unemployed and through a ministry of the church has just been hired. He is pouring himself into outreach. He, with his broken, difficult past, has become an informal leader of the church. The shade of his skin, the level of his education, the type of home he was raised in — all are quite different than many others at the church. But he smiles and laughs as he talks about his new family. He grins as he introduces me to others as “my pastor.”
Both men matter. Both deserve pastoral care.
But if we continue to find our neighborhood, if we continue to join God in what he’s already doing in our city, then our faith community will look less and less like a gated community where access codes are required.
I’m afraid it won’t be comfortable. But it should be exciting.
I spoke with two men.
One is unhappy at church. Some changes have him feeling uncomfortable. He just doesn’t like it. He doesn’t want to be so uncomfortable. He doesn’t care for the way the church is heading. He’s exploring other options.
The other has never been happier. He was lost and is now found. He was unemployed and through a ministry of the church has just been hired. He is pouring himself into outreach. He, with his broken, difficult past, has become an informal leader of the church. The shade of his skin, the level of his education, the type of home he was raised in — all are quite different than many others at the church. But he smiles and laughs as he talks about his new family. He grins as he introduces me to others as “my pastor.”
Both men matter. Both deserve pastoral care.
But if we continue to find our neighborhood, if we continue to join God in what he’s already doing in our city, then our faith community will look less and less like a gated community where access codes are required.
I’m afraid it won’t be comfortable. But it should be exciting.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
A Prayer Request
A prayer request for today.....
Be praying for so many that are still without power from the ice storm that hit the mid-west this past weekend.
Be praying for those traveling on the highways the next few days. Especially our bus drivers bringing our kids to and from school on the country (gravel) roads. They are icy this morning.
Be praying for so many that are still without power from the ice storm that hit the mid-west this past weekend.
Be praying for those traveling on the highways the next few days. Especially our bus drivers bringing our kids to and from school on the country (gravel) roads. They are icy this morning.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Elders-Deacons Meeting Minutes (January 11, 2006)
Minutes of Elders -Deacons MeetingJanuary 11, 2007
Coordinating Elder: Rex Allen
Minutes Recorder: Bill Carriger
Scripture Reading: Phil. 2: 1-11
Opening Prayer: Rex Allen
Present: Rex Allen, Bill Carriger, David Carriger, Roger Hamm, Jerry Myers,Gary Souder, Ed Mcoy, Kurt Johnston, Ed Mc Kinley, Bryan Phillips, ScottSmith, Joe Todd, & Steve Toillion.
Opening reading - Prayer - Remarks - The 100th Anniversary of the Central Congregation will be in February 2009. We need to start making plans for an Anniversary Celebration soon.
Treasurer's Report - Ed McCoy reported assets of $187,134.54, with anaverage contribution of $ 6,766.14 per Sunday during 2006. It was decided to establish aseparate New Building Account, with Bryan Phillips in charge. There is currently $87,920.07 plus January 7th additions in the building fund. An additional $50,000 CD had been purchased. Comments from
Budget Presentation - This presentation went well, and hasbeen well received.
Review of December Minutes -
Deacons meeting report - No meeting
Youth Report - Scott Smith: 76+ surveys returned and are being compiled. Two youth minister resumes have been received. Youth Rally titled "My Secret"coming here Jan. 27. Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa will be the keynote speaker.Scott & Angie are planning an ice Skating youth trip to Crown Center in Kansas City on Sat. eve. Feb. 3. Thinking about starting and area wide C of C roller skate in the future. Talking about a guys class on Sunday night once a month when the Tabitha class meets.a boys class on Sun. 5 went to KYF. 21 went to YIA.
Old Business -
Building Committee Report = Steve Toillion is to make ashort report to the congregation at the close of the Jan. 14 worship assembly, starting atlast Feb. and bringing us to the present. He reported at least $3,000 would be needed to bring the house on Burlingame to a more useful condition. (Replace bathtub, repair some drywall and painting). It could be fixed up and used by a youth Minister (rent free). It was decided to move forward with repairs. Dean Lonard has mowed the property, picked up some brush, & replaced thefront door lock.
Benevolence - No Report
Tall Grass Report - Bill Carriger: An exciting year. Doors & windows are in. The heating & cooling will be in soon, with 11 heat pumps. The fireplace is complete and functional. Car siding ceiling is 30% complete in meeting room, and ceiling sheet rock is 40% complete in kitchen area. Seven from Emporia came & hang sheet rock this past Saturday. Several from Overland Park installed car siding on Tue. Jan. 2.
Building & Grounds: Joe Todd reported that auditorium ceiling repairs weremade today. Kathy & helpers are asking what can be done to repair theWest wall in the nursery. It was decided to ask for volunteers to furr out for a new wall. There is a question about space utilization. With 40 children in the 2-K class on Sun. a.m., a wall removal might be needed.
Bill Carriger suggested that the deacons walk through the building andinspect it, as if they were going to buy it. We could make repairs as needed. Jerry will ask the deacon of the month (Ron) to put it on this months agenda.
New Business -
Worship Speakers - Evan will be gone on Feb.4th. Weare contacting Mark Barone to come & present a Home Improvement Series he has prepared on that Sunday and some following Sunday evenings. The Elders are presenting 5 more lessons on David.
Individual Items –
Ed: Look at a 5 yr. Plan for budget purposes.One plan if we stay here and one plan if we move.
Gary - Bricks & Mortar things the deacons can work on. We need to think ofa location for a 100th anniversary celebration for 200 plus.
Scott - Bob Couch of Quivera Heights. Passed away. There is a Memorial Servicefor him this Sat.
Joe - Who has credit cards for the vans? One is in the office & JimCoulter has one.It was decided to obtain a card lock account at CCO on Burlingame Rd.Gary will contact.There is a difficulty for drivers to obtain fuel, with no card readilyavailable
Rex - We need volunteers to take communion to shut-ins. David Shinn & Jerry are working on it.
Prayer Concerns were listed.
Closing Prayer - Jerry Myers
Adjourned at 9:20
Coordinating Elder: Rex Allen
Minutes Recorder: Bill Carriger
Scripture Reading: Phil. 2: 1-11
Opening Prayer: Rex Allen
Present: Rex Allen, Bill Carriger, David Carriger, Roger Hamm, Jerry Myers,Gary Souder, Ed Mcoy, Kurt Johnston, Ed Mc Kinley, Bryan Phillips, ScottSmith, Joe Todd, & Steve Toillion.
Opening reading - Prayer - Remarks - The 100th Anniversary of the Central Congregation will be in February 2009. We need to start making plans for an Anniversary Celebration soon.
Treasurer's Report - Ed McCoy reported assets of $187,134.54, with anaverage contribution of $ 6,766.14 per Sunday during 2006. It was decided to establish aseparate New Building Account, with Bryan Phillips in charge. There is currently $87,920.07 plus January 7th additions in the building fund. An additional $50,000 CD had been purchased. Comments from
Budget Presentation - This presentation went well, and hasbeen well received.
Review of December Minutes -
Deacons meeting report - No meeting
Youth Report - Scott Smith: 76+ surveys returned and are being compiled. Two youth minister resumes have been received. Youth Rally titled "My Secret"coming here Jan. 27. Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa will be the keynote speaker.Scott & Angie are planning an ice Skating youth trip to Crown Center in Kansas City on Sat. eve. Feb. 3. Thinking about starting and area wide C of C roller skate in the future. Talking about a guys class on Sunday night once a month when the Tabitha class meets.a boys class on Sun. 5 went to KYF. 21 went to YIA.
Old Business -
Building Committee Report = Steve Toillion is to make ashort report to the congregation at the close of the Jan. 14 worship assembly, starting atlast Feb. and bringing us to the present. He reported at least $3,000 would be needed to bring the house on Burlingame to a more useful condition. (Replace bathtub, repair some drywall and painting). It could be fixed up and used by a youth Minister (rent free). It was decided to move forward with repairs. Dean Lonard has mowed the property, picked up some brush, & replaced thefront door lock.
Benevolence - No Report
Tall Grass Report - Bill Carriger: An exciting year. Doors & windows are in. The heating & cooling will be in soon, with 11 heat pumps. The fireplace is complete and functional. Car siding ceiling is 30% complete in meeting room, and ceiling sheet rock is 40% complete in kitchen area. Seven from Emporia came & hang sheet rock this past Saturday. Several from Overland Park installed car siding on Tue. Jan. 2.
Building & Grounds: Joe Todd reported that auditorium ceiling repairs weremade today. Kathy & helpers are asking what can be done to repair theWest wall in the nursery. It was decided to ask for volunteers to furr out for a new wall. There is a question about space utilization. With 40 children in the 2-K class on Sun. a.m., a wall removal might be needed.
Bill Carriger suggested that the deacons walk through the building andinspect it, as if they were going to buy it. We could make repairs as needed. Jerry will ask the deacon of the month (Ron) to put it on this months agenda.
New Business -
Worship Speakers - Evan will be gone on Feb.4th. Weare contacting Mark Barone to come & present a Home Improvement Series he has prepared on that Sunday and some following Sunday evenings. The Elders are presenting 5 more lessons on David.
Individual Items –
Ed: Look at a 5 yr. Plan for budget purposes.One plan if we stay here and one plan if we move.
Gary - Bricks & Mortar things the deacons can work on. We need to think ofa location for a 100th anniversary celebration for 200 plus.
Scott - Bob Couch of Quivera Heights. Passed away. There is a Memorial Servicefor him this Sat.
Joe - Who has credit cards for the vans? One is in the office & JimCoulter has one.It was decided to obtain a card lock account at CCO on Burlingame Rd.Gary will contact.There is a difficulty for drivers to obtain fuel, with no card readilyavailable
Rex - We need volunteers to take communion to shut-ins. David Shinn & Jerry are working on it.
Prayer Concerns were listed.
Closing Prayer - Jerry Myers
Adjourned at 9:20
Friday, January 12, 2007
Do You Ever Just Quit?
Ever quit something?
As an educator, I have always encouraged our students, if they start an activity or sport, to complete the season. Every year we have a few students that decide three weeks into the activity season to quit because of playing time or they are just not having fun. We always visit with the kids, before they officially quit, to encourage them to stay and work through the difficulties or work harder to gain more playing time.
It’s so easy to quit. It doesn’t take much work or effort. I see kids quit all the time. I also see their parents quit. I see marriages end in divorce. I have seen kids decide to quit life. And I have seen parents quit on their kids.
It’s so easy to quit! Anything in life that is worthwhile takes work. It takes hard work. If you want good grades, it takes hours of study. If you want success on the basketball court, it takes hours of practice. If you want strong marriages, it takes understanding, forgiveness and communication.
It’s easy to quit. It’s easy to turn in the uniform. It’s easy to drop the class. It’s easy to file divorce papers. It’s easy to say no to God. When the job, task or situation gets tough, do you want to quit? Many do in our society of today. Many can't cope with the stress and demands of the job or task (or the attacks).
It takes hard work to be a Christian. It takes dedication, time, energy and a daily commitment that whatever happens, my God will help me through it. That means if I have an argument with my spouse, if the boss is upset with me, if I don’t make the traveling team, if a patron blasts me at a board meeting, whatever happens, God will help me through the situation.
Think what happens when we quit. When we say, “I’m done. I can’t do this any longer. I can’t make it through this situation again.” When we quit, we don't grow. We don't understand what it means to persevere and come out ahead because of the situation or stance we had to go through and we made it. The feeling is great when we can finally see through the clouds.
Never ever quit. It's too easy.
As an educator, I have always encouraged our students, if they start an activity or sport, to complete the season. Every year we have a few students that decide three weeks into the activity season to quit because of playing time or they are just not having fun. We always visit with the kids, before they officially quit, to encourage them to stay and work through the difficulties or work harder to gain more playing time.
It’s so easy to quit. It doesn’t take much work or effort. I see kids quit all the time. I also see their parents quit. I see marriages end in divorce. I have seen kids decide to quit life. And I have seen parents quit on their kids.
It’s so easy to quit! Anything in life that is worthwhile takes work. It takes hard work. If you want good grades, it takes hours of study. If you want success on the basketball court, it takes hours of practice. If you want strong marriages, it takes understanding, forgiveness and communication.
It’s easy to quit. It’s easy to turn in the uniform. It’s easy to drop the class. It’s easy to file divorce papers. It’s easy to say no to God. When the job, task or situation gets tough, do you want to quit? Many do in our society of today. Many can't cope with the stress and demands of the job or task (or the attacks).
It takes hard work to be a Christian. It takes dedication, time, energy and a daily commitment that whatever happens, my God will help me through it. That means if I have an argument with my spouse, if the boss is upset with me, if I don’t make the traveling team, if a patron blasts me at a board meeting, whatever happens, God will help me through the situation.
Think what happens when we quit. When we say, “I’m done. I can’t do this any longer. I can’t make it through this situation again.” When we quit, we don't grow. We don't understand what it means to persevere and come out ahead because of the situation or stance we had to go through and we made it. The feeling is great when we can finally see through the clouds.
Never ever quit. It's too easy.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Hymn Thirteen (Unsung)
“A Land of No Arrest”
for D. W.
We too often confuse the meaty, muscle heart for
who we really are—as if that pulsing pusher holds
all intellect and emotion.
Hearts break. Hearts burn. Hearts arrest and grow ever poor
in pumping. Hearts attack the arteries and veins, rolled
up in our cycling blood ocean
bodies, cresting year after year on waves of thump-thump.
The heart is our core of flesh, a simple center
set to beat in our natal hour.
It is not our infinite soul set to jump
this trifling world we love too much. We’ll enter
forever with a new power,
greater than any red twitching mass can churn.
The celestial shore and proverbial gates and streets
will welcome us, friend.
I think we’ll chuckle, knowing it is our turn
to leave back old hearts no longer keeping a beat,blood-washed, done with sin.
Michael P. Carriger
for D. W.
We too often confuse the meaty, muscle heart for
who we really are—as if that pulsing pusher holds
all intellect and emotion.
Hearts break. Hearts burn. Hearts arrest and grow ever poor
in pumping. Hearts attack the arteries and veins, rolled
up in our cycling blood ocean
bodies, cresting year after year on waves of thump-thump.
The heart is our core of flesh, a simple center
set to beat in our natal hour.
It is not our infinite soul set to jump
this trifling world we love too much. We’ll enter
forever with a new power,
greater than any red twitching mass can churn.
The celestial shore and proverbial gates and streets
will welcome us, friend.
I think we’ll chuckle, knowing it is our turn
to leave back old hearts no longer keeping a beat,blood-washed, done with sin.
Michael P. Carriger
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
More Heroes of Faith (Part 2)
I gave you my list of Elders that have influenced me throughout the years, how about ministers?
Ministry is a very lonely place at times. They serve Christians who, many times, take advantage of them in several different ways. They have to always look in control even when doubt and frustration enter in.
I have appreciated some great men that have challenged and shared God’s Word with me throughout the years.
Men like Kent Hall, Brian Anderson, Bob Lewis, Judge Morris, Lee Peters, Clifford Payne, Pat Peck, Curtis Manor and Bob Anderson who spoke the Truth Sunday after Sunday.
I pray that our Christian universities will produce some great Bible Teachers/Ministers for the Lord’s Body. I also pray that we might continue to lift them up in prayer.
Thank you Evan for serving and giving your time and energy as you deliver God’s words to us each Sunday. You challenge us and encourage us to be the servants that we need to be each day.
Ministry is a very lonely place at times. They serve Christians who, many times, take advantage of them in several different ways. They have to always look in control even when doubt and frustration enter in.
I have appreciated some great men that have challenged and shared God’s Word with me throughout the years.
Men like Kent Hall, Brian Anderson, Bob Lewis, Judge Morris, Lee Peters, Clifford Payne, Pat Peck, Curtis Manor and Bob Anderson who spoke the Truth Sunday after Sunday.
I pray that our Christian universities will produce some great Bible Teachers/Ministers for the Lord’s Body. I also pray that we might continue to lift them up in prayer.
Thank you Evan for serving and giving your time and energy as you deliver God’s words to us each Sunday. You challenge us and encourage us to be the servants that we need to be each day.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Elders Meeting Minutes (January 3, 2007)
Present - All Elders
Presiding - Rex Allen
Scripture Reading - Phil. 1: 1-11
Opening Prayer - David Carriger
Elders-Deacons meeting change - This meeting will be changed to Thursday , January 11, 2007 at 7:00 P.M.
Communion for shut-ins - Jerry reported that David Shinn was looking for someone
to help him at Hearthstone, and help is needed to provide communion for Ruth Price.
Budget presentation & new year information on Jan 7 - Ed McKinley will present the budget for 2007 after Evans lesson and Jerry will present the information from the Elders.
Sunday Evening Service speaker schedule- The Elders will present six lessons about David. Jan. 7 = Jerry Myers, Jan. 14 = Rex Allen, Jan. 21 = Bill> Carriger, Jan. 28 = 4th Sunday Praise. Feb. 4= Gary Souder, Feb. 11 = David Carriger, Feb. 18 = Roger Hamm. Feb. 25 = 4th Sunday Praise.
Youth Minister Survey Results - David reported about 100 survey sheets have been received so far, and will be tabulated soon. One youth minister applicant thus far.
Goal & Vision Plans - Our Commitment is to INVOLVEMENT. LOCAL EVANGELISM, and RECLAIMING THE STRAYING SHEEP!
Coming Youth Rally Jan. 27, "My Secret", speaker is Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa
hoping for 100 young people. Lunch will be provided. Invitations have been sent out.
Individual Items - Roger: We have a need for some new furniture & equipment needs for 3-4yr. & 5-K classrooms in our Bible School , totaling aproximately $1300. David suggested some possible vendors. Request approved.
Bill: reported on Tall Grass progress Heating & Air work nearly completed by Clouds, sheet rock work will start this Sat., & some more ceiling boards were installed on Tue. Electrical work is nearly completed.
Gary: reported that Kathy, Sherrill, & Sharon met Monday and discussed Bible School Attendance Problems. He suggested we use Mon. night for the Master as an elder visit time for this need. A list of students & parents will be prepared.
Rex: Mentioned that the Lubbock Christian College Chorus will perform at Southside in Lawrence on Tue. eve Jan. 9, at 7:00 P.M.
Prayer Concerns were discussed and Jerry Myers led a prayer for individuals and closing.
Adjourned at 10:20 p.m.
Presiding - Rex Allen
Scripture Reading - Phil. 1: 1-11
Opening Prayer - David Carriger
Elders-Deacons meeting change - This meeting will be changed to Thursday , January 11, 2007 at 7:00 P.M.
Communion for shut-ins - Jerry reported that David Shinn was looking for someone
to help him at Hearthstone, and help is needed to provide communion for Ruth Price.
Budget presentation & new year information on Jan 7 - Ed McKinley will present the budget for 2007 after Evans lesson and Jerry will present the information from the Elders.
Sunday Evening Service speaker schedule- The Elders will present six lessons about David. Jan. 7 = Jerry Myers, Jan. 14 = Rex Allen, Jan. 21 = Bill> Carriger, Jan. 28 = 4th Sunday Praise. Feb. 4= Gary Souder, Feb. 11 = David Carriger, Feb. 18 = Roger Hamm. Feb. 25 = 4th Sunday Praise.
Youth Minister Survey Results - David reported about 100 survey sheets have been received so far, and will be tabulated soon. One youth minister applicant thus far.
Goal & Vision Plans - Our Commitment is to INVOLVEMENT. LOCAL EVANGELISM, and RECLAIMING THE STRAYING SHEEP!
Coming Youth Rally Jan. 27, "My Secret", speaker is Mitch Wilburn from Tulsa
hoping for 100 young people. Lunch will be provided. Invitations have been sent out.
Individual Items - Roger: We have a need for some new furniture & equipment needs for 3-4yr. & 5-K classrooms in our Bible School , totaling aproximately $1300. David suggested some possible vendors. Request approved.
Bill: reported on Tall Grass progress Heating & Air work nearly completed by Clouds, sheet rock work will start this Sat., & some more ceiling boards were installed on Tue. Electrical work is nearly completed.
Gary: reported that Kathy, Sherrill, & Sharon met Monday and discussed Bible School Attendance Problems. He suggested we use Mon. night for the Master as an elder visit time for this need. A list of students & parents will be prepared.
Rex: Mentioned that the Lubbock Christian College Chorus will perform at Southside in Lawrence on Tue. eve Jan. 9, at 7:00 P.M.
Prayer Concerns were discussed and Jerry Myers led a prayer for individuals and closing.
Adjourned at 10:20 p.m.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Order of Worship (January 7, 2007)
Order of Worship
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Welcome
8 Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing
54 We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise
67 For the Beauty of the Earth
Prayer
287 There Is a Redeemer
Lords Supper
Contribution
Dismiss to Children’s Worship Time????
449 Thy Word
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 116 God Will Make A Way (twice)
Budget Presentation: Ed McKinley
Elder Challenge: Jerry Myers
Announcements
508 A Wonderful Savior (Verse 1 Only)
Closing Prayer
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Welcome
8 Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing
54 We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise
67 For the Beauty of the Earth
Prayer
287 There Is a Redeemer
Lords Supper
Contribution
Dismiss to Children’s Worship Time????
449 Thy Word
Message Evan Burdan
Invitation 116 God Will Make A Way (twice)
Budget Presentation: Ed McKinley
Elder Challenge: Jerry Myers
Announcements
508 A Wonderful Savior (Verse 1 Only)
Closing Prayer
Friday, January 05, 2007
Vision 2007
As a school leader vision is a serious ingredient in 21st Century education.
Have you ever experienced the power of vision…or lack thereof?
Have you dreamed about what the future might hold for you? How about for the Central Body?
T.E. Lawrence once said:"All men dream but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds awake to the day to find it was all vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for the many act out their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible..."
Lynn Anderson wrote:“About 350 years ago a shipload of travelers landed on the northeast coast of America. The first year they established a town site. The next year they elected a town government. The third year the town government planned to build a road five miles westward into the wilderness.”In the fourth year the people tried to impeach their town government because they thought it was a waste of public funds to build a road five miles westward into a wilderness. Who needed to go there anyway? Here were people who had the vision to see three thousand miles across an ocean and overcome great hardships to get there. But in just a few years they were not able to see even five miles out of town. They had lost their pioneering vision.
With a clear vision of what we can become in Christ, no ocean of difficulty is too great. Without it, we rarely move beyond our current boundaries and situations.
Bill Hybels tells this story about vision:“It started like so many evenings. Mom and Dad at home and Jimmy playing after dinner. Mom and Dad were absorbed with jobs and did not notice the time. It was a full moon and some of the light came through the windows. Then Mom glanced at the clock. "Jimmy, it's time to go to bed. Go up now and I'll come and tuck you in later." Unlike usual, Jimmy went straight upstairs to his room. An hour or so later his mother came up to check if all was well, and to her astonishment found that her son was staring quietly out of his window at the moonlit scenery. "What are you doing, Jimmy?" "I'm looking at the moon, Mommy." "Well, it's time to go to bed now." As one reluctant boy settled down, he said, "Mommy, you know one day I'm going to walk on the moon." Who could have known that the boy in whom the dream was planted that night would survive a near fatal motorbike crash which broke almost every bone in his body, and would bring to fruition this dream 32 later when James Irwin stepped on the moon's surface, just one of the 12 representatives of the human race to have done so?
Finally, Bob Logan includes these thoughts: “Vision: the capacity to create a compelling picture of the desired state of affairs that inspires people to respond; that which is desirable, which could be, should be; that which is attainable. A godly vision is right for the times, right for the church, and right for the people. A godly vision promotes faith rather than fear. A godly vision motivates people to action. A godly vision requires risk-taking. A godly vision glorifies God, not people.”
As we begin a new year Central is on the brink of greatness for the cause of Christ in northeast Kansas.The vision that the leadership has developed will be communicated to the congregation in the next few weeks. It is a bold vision, to be sure…not for the faint-hearted or short-sighted. Indeed, the changes we will make in the coming months will cast the vision for this church for the next 5-10 years. But be warned. Even though Central has eagerly pioneered throughout its history, it would be all too tempting to sit back on our laurels, and, as the great European explorers and settlers, decide that arriving at a destination meant the need for no further exploration. Instead, let us begin again, charting a path into the unknown for the Central Church!
In your worship and quiet time this week, think about the idea of vision, and what great things have been done throughout history, when groups of people have come together for a common cause. Imagine the great number of people that have been blessed here over the decades and the countless others who will be touched in the future because of the changes we will be making. Seek God’s will this week for this massive endeavor and what role(s) He will have you play in order to achieve it.
Have you ever experienced the power of vision…or lack thereof?
Have you dreamed about what the future might hold for you? How about for the Central Body?
T.E. Lawrence once said:"All men dream but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds awake to the day to find it was all vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for the many act out their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible..."
Lynn Anderson wrote:“About 350 years ago a shipload of travelers landed on the northeast coast of America. The first year they established a town site. The next year they elected a town government. The third year the town government planned to build a road five miles westward into the wilderness.”In the fourth year the people tried to impeach their town government because they thought it was a waste of public funds to build a road five miles westward into a wilderness. Who needed to go there anyway? Here were people who had the vision to see three thousand miles across an ocean and overcome great hardships to get there. But in just a few years they were not able to see even five miles out of town. They had lost their pioneering vision.
With a clear vision of what we can become in Christ, no ocean of difficulty is too great. Without it, we rarely move beyond our current boundaries and situations.
Bill Hybels tells this story about vision:“It started like so many evenings. Mom and Dad at home and Jimmy playing after dinner. Mom and Dad were absorbed with jobs and did not notice the time. It was a full moon and some of the light came through the windows. Then Mom glanced at the clock. "Jimmy, it's time to go to bed. Go up now and I'll come and tuck you in later." Unlike usual, Jimmy went straight upstairs to his room. An hour or so later his mother came up to check if all was well, and to her astonishment found that her son was staring quietly out of his window at the moonlit scenery. "What are you doing, Jimmy?" "I'm looking at the moon, Mommy." "Well, it's time to go to bed now." As one reluctant boy settled down, he said, "Mommy, you know one day I'm going to walk on the moon." Who could have known that the boy in whom the dream was planted that night would survive a near fatal motorbike crash which broke almost every bone in his body, and would bring to fruition this dream 32 later when James Irwin stepped on the moon's surface, just one of the 12 representatives of the human race to have done so?
Finally, Bob Logan includes these thoughts: “Vision: the capacity to create a compelling picture of the desired state of affairs that inspires people to respond; that which is desirable, which could be, should be; that which is attainable. A godly vision is right for the times, right for the church, and right for the people. A godly vision promotes faith rather than fear. A godly vision motivates people to action. A godly vision requires risk-taking. A godly vision glorifies God, not people.”
As we begin a new year Central is on the brink of greatness for the cause of Christ in northeast Kansas.The vision that the leadership has developed will be communicated to the congregation in the next few weeks. It is a bold vision, to be sure…not for the faint-hearted or short-sighted. Indeed, the changes we will make in the coming months will cast the vision for this church for the next 5-10 years. But be warned. Even though Central has eagerly pioneered throughout its history, it would be all too tempting to sit back on our laurels, and, as the great European explorers and settlers, decide that arriving at a destination meant the need for no further exploration. Instead, let us begin again, charting a path into the unknown for the Central Church!
In your worship and quiet time this week, think about the idea of vision, and what great things have been done throughout history, when groups of people have come together for a common cause. Imagine the great number of people that have been blessed here over the decades and the countless others who will be touched in the future because of the changes we will be making. Seek God’s will this week for this massive endeavor and what role(s) He will have you play in order to achieve it.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
The Church in America Becoming Missional (Part 3)
Go anywhere in the United States and you’ll see a universal format of singing and preaching as the fundamental cornerstones of the content of worship service. The church’s main premise is to conduct a service so it can attract visitors to their building and then assimilate them into the life of the church and its programs. Some large churches do this incredibly well and provide excellent services. From when a person enters the parking lot to when they leave they are treated to a host of volunteers who will greet them, show them to a chair, teach or baby-sit their children, sing to them and then provide a reasonable amount of entertainment from PowerPoint to skits, dramas and items. Some people can go from one large church to another enjoying world class preaching and music.
Unfortunately many of the smaller churches have the same aims and intentions, but they do not have the facilities, resources and volunteers to provide the same quality product. They most likely have attended the large church services and even a yearly conference hosted by the large church and yet they find such experiences unreproducible.
American church services are normally incredibly inward in their language and content. Only people familiar to the Christian culture would truly understand the majority of what is said and sung. There is usually a cultural issue where the songs and style is dated. The service only appeals to people whom like that style.
This results in most people feeling they could not bring the average unchurched friend or relative to these services. In fact most of the people who do attend are the members of that congregation or visiting Christians. There are enough visiting or disgruntled Christians, who shop around, that these churches continue on without asking "who is finding Jesus for the first time?" They try all sorts of ways to attract new people, from fairs to fates to coffee lounges to visitor corners; they attempt to bring "the worldly person" into the church. No matter how well they greet and guide people, the cultural gap between the average person and the church is enormous. The American Church simply believes the average unchurched person wants their message.
The missional church goes back to the life of Jesus. It submerges itself into the culture it is reaching. He did not construct a building or start a service. Rather he walked among the poor and hurt and lost. He incarnated himself. He became flesh; God came down from heaven and lived among us. He was born poor and grew up in a despised town called Nazareth. He had a questionable birth and in all likeliness lost his earthly father at an early age. He became close friends of sinners.
This was the only model the early church knew. Those that had been his disciples saw how he pulled away from the crowd and wanted no fame or fortune for his ability to lead and heal. His purpose was to build into the lives of a small group of people so that his mission to bring the kingdom would be carried on their shoulders.The missional church understands that it is primarily a missional community of people being trained and equipped to live among the world as missionaries. The same principle as oversees missions is applied in the first world. We speak the language, wear the clothes and submerge into the culture we want to reach.
Author Unknown
Unfortunately many of the smaller churches have the same aims and intentions, but they do not have the facilities, resources and volunteers to provide the same quality product. They most likely have attended the large church services and even a yearly conference hosted by the large church and yet they find such experiences unreproducible.
American church services are normally incredibly inward in their language and content. Only people familiar to the Christian culture would truly understand the majority of what is said and sung. There is usually a cultural issue where the songs and style is dated. The service only appeals to people whom like that style.
This results in most people feeling they could not bring the average unchurched friend or relative to these services. In fact most of the people who do attend are the members of that congregation or visiting Christians. There are enough visiting or disgruntled Christians, who shop around, that these churches continue on without asking "who is finding Jesus for the first time?" They try all sorts of ways to attract new people, from fairs to fates to coffee lounges to visitor corners; they attempt to bring "the worldly person" into the church. No matter how well they greet and guide people, the cultural gap between the average person and the church is enormous. The American Church simply believes the average unchurched person wants their message.
The missional church goes back to the life of Jesus. It submerges itself into the culture it is reaching. He did not construct a building or start a service. Rather he walked among the poor and hurt and lost. He incarnated himself. He became flesh; God came down from heaven and lived among us. He was born poor and grew up in a despised town called Nazareth. He had a questionable birth and in all likeliness lost his earthly father at an early age. He became close friends of sinners.
This was the only model the early church knew. Those that had been his disciples saw how he pulled away from the crowd and wanted no fame or fortune for his ability to lead and heal. His purpose was to build into the lives of a small group of people so that his mission to bring the kingdom would be carried on their shoulders.The missional church understands that it is primarily a missional community of people being trained and equipped to live among the world as missionaries. The same principle as oversees missions is applied in the first world. We speak the language, wear the clothes and submerge into the culture we want to reach.
Author Unknown
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
You are the Coffee
A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. The conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life. Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain-looking, some expensive and some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the coffee. After all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is but normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress." "Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases, it's just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups...and then began eyeing each other's cups."
"Now consider this: Life is the coffee, and the jobs, houses, cars, things, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not define nor change the quality of life we live.
Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews the coffee, not the cups . . . enjoy your coffee.
"Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections" Live in peace and peace will live in you.
(A Gift from my Favorite Professor Dr. Mabrey Miller)
"Now consider this: Life is the coffee, and the jobs, houses, cars, things, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life, and the type of cup we have does not define nor change the quality of life we live.
Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews the coffee, not the cups . . . enjoy your coffee.
"Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections" Live in peace and peace will live in you.
(A Gift from my Favorite Professor Dr. Mabrey Miller)
Monday, January 01, 2007
New Beginnings
January is a time for new beginnings.
January 1 is the day to make the commitments to achieve your vision for the new year and your future. How many of us have longed to be smarter, more attractive, wiser, compassionate or richer? Perhaps we want to spend more quality time with our family and/or friends. There are a variety of individualized needs and desires that go unfulfilled.
How do we become the fortunate few that actually meet a goal, live a vision, or embrace the many positive elements that is life? The first step is making the commitment to see your goal reached.
What is the true meaning of "commitment”? To be committed is to pledge one’s self to an issue or goal. It means that I will do my very best in whatever it takes to work to achieve the ultimate goal that I wish to accomplish. It might mean giving up bad habits, it might mean sacrifice, it might mean doing something that I know I need to do but never have done before in all my life.
The Central Family is in for a great 2007, but it will take commitment. It will take the entire family reaching outward, inward and upward to bring the Good News to those that need to hear about a Savior that can help them make a special new beginning in 2007.
May God bless all of us as we begin this exciting journey.
January 1 is the day to make the commitments to achieve your vision for the new year and your future. How many of us have longed to be smarter, more attractive, wiser, compassionate or richer? Perhaps we want to spend more quality time with our family and/or friends. There are a variety of individualized needs and desires that go unfulfilled.
How do we become the fortunate few that actually meet a goal, live a vision, or embrace the many positive elements that is life? The first step is making the commitment to see your goal reached.
What is the true meaning of "commitment”? To be committed is to pledge one’s self to an issue or goal. It means that I will do my very best in whatever it takes to work to achieve the ultimate goal that I wish to accomplish. It might mean giving up bad habits, it might mean sacrifice, it might mean doing something that I know I need to do but never have done before in all my life.
The Central Family is in for a great 2007, but it will take commitment. It will take the entire family reaching outward, inward and upward to bring the Good News to those that need to hear about a Savior that can help them make a special new beginning in 2007.
May God bless all of us as we begin this exciting journey.
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