This past week has been very different than I would have expected it to be. Both in the process of the week and the outcome of events. I house sat for a family which turned out to be a great relationship builder with them, I went out to lunch at least three times with students, got a plan together for an after school program and a few other things. It has been a great week I would say.
As I was saying, I house sat for a family in the youth group while their mom is in the hospital. I only had to drop them off at school and/or make sure they got on the bus. I didn't think it was going to be that much of a deal to them. I was hoping for a little more trust/relationship building time with them, but I only got breakfast and dropping them off at school. God took that little amount of time and used it though, at the end of three or four days they came up and asked if I would want to go to a theme park with them, and I am able to easily engage them at youth group too. As this happened I realized that God can use even the smallest interaction for something great. Also, if you really care about something or someone, people (whether young or old) notice. This can be good or bad. This case happened to be good, and now they are beginning to trust me.
I was talking with someone the other day when I thought of something. Kids learn life lessons and morals not by being told, but by being shown. As much as we would like to believe otherwise, I think students and kids prefer to have something practical set before them to learn from, not just an abstract idea. Though I could be wrong and I am the exception and not the norm. The thought that I had stills remains. The Old Testament in the Bible is written mostly in stories or morals and beliefs, not abstract ideas about beliefs. The Old Testament functioned as Israel's History book, their story book and their book of Law. There wasn't a whole lot of abstract ideas of following God or believing in Him, but stories about people who have. This is why I think that stories are a great way to teach people an idea or concept. But that is the opinion of a "know it all" college student. I am sure when I graduate and no longer know everything that will change.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, the first of November! What happened to the year? The after school program is tomorrow, needless to say, I am pretty excited about going. I took a more active role and gave the teacher a little bit of a break. I need to start using my Youth Ministry degree in something, and this is something that I really enjoy. Joe D and I met on Friday to talk about what Epic (the after school program) might look like. We landed on "Fellowship" and the "one another" commands of the New Testament. There is roughly 13-16 different "one another" commands, and I think 14-15 weeks left of epic for the school year. Since it is a Christian fellowship type thing that meets, I thought the subject is fitting. The topic is easy enough that if one of the students wanted to teach they could, too. Pray for Epic and the students involved
I got to talk with my Dad on Friday for a while. I really enjoyed that. We talked about some of the things that I have posted on my blog and different things going on at home. I am very glad we had that conversation and I look forward to more in the future. Everything at home is still pretty normal - or I should say, the same. Nothing new is happening. Mom is mom, dad is dad, my sisters are still my sisters, and the world is still a mess. God has been working in my family though, and it is very cool to watch in retrospect what he has done. To name one: Shanyne is considering taking a listening class to help other hurting students in her High school. This would provide a great inlet for her to build relationship to ultimately share the love of Christ with people. Dad said she was excited about it. I don't blame her. I am excited for her. Pray for Shanyne as she seeks opportunity to love people
One of the times I went out for lunch this week I met with a student who's life isn't exactly heavenly. I have spent the last couple of weeks getting to know him and building a level of trust. Then this week I asked him some hard questions about what he is going though. When going through this time of situation, talking is the last thing someone wants to do, but it is one of the most valuable things. I gained a since of freedom from my pain when I talked about them. It's as if I acknowledged them and then could move on. I said it hurt me and that I was hurting, and for there I could begin healing. Being asked the hard questions myself I also was able to get to the bottom of my pain and see all the areas that I have been affected. Now I have the responsibility to help others to to the bottom of their pain as well. Pray for Anthony and I as we process through life and seek God in the midst of out hurt
(This is my opinion, I do not have a degree in counseling or anything of that nature. This is just my experience)
People often refer to something like this as "being wounded" or "hurt" and those are correct. When something like separation or tragedy comes into our lives, it is a lot like a wound. But also like a wound, it needs to be thoroughly cleaned out before it can properly heal. It might scab over or stop bleeding, but that is not healed - It could still get an infection or something. If a wound does get an infection, the cleaning process must be that much more thorough. By asking questions and talking about it, we are able to flush out the wound and let healing start. Word of caution: cleaning out a wound, especially a deep one, never feels good when you are doing it, but it must be done.
I have been very encouraged by all that is going on. I get excited to see things start moving and God working. I am excited to see what God will do with the situations that I am a part of and the stories that will come of it. Continue to pray for my family. I believe that God can turn it into an incredible story of restoration and redemption. That is my story and I am sticking to it!
I talked with Rachel last night, she is doing okay. She is not excited about the snow they got out there. Nearly 10 inches. She is very excited that she only has 24 academic weeks left in her school year before she graduates. She has a lot to get done between here and May though, Pray that she keeps focused on the true goal and finishes well. Whatever that means.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
Simply a pilgrim, looking for that city whose builder and maker is God, who enjoys bringing others along on the journey.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Pumpkin Carving
Pumpkin carving with anna
The completed pumpkin. Two face!
I don't think I'll ever grow up enough to not enjoy carving pumpkins with my friends. What a great time!
Blessings
Later
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
The Boys Next Door
As you know by the last post, I took the weekend to go spend with Rachel for our two year anniversary as well as meet up with other friends while I was out there. What ended up happening was right close to insanity by normal standards.
I left after work on Thursday night around 6:30pm making my arrival at School around 1am. I slept in my friends room with little knowledge on his part, and left before he got up - making for a creepy story for his roommate that didn't know at all. Sleeping on the floor only allowed so much sleep and getting me up at 6am. I did my Bible reading and then I was on my way to the kitchen to meet some old friends. I found Chris and Jon the cooks, and talked with them a long time. They also made sure I got fed for the weekend free of charge. They are awesome as was the food that I ate.
The best part of the morning by far was the look on Rachel's face when she saw me. A mixture of surprise, comfort and excitement. She had some idea that I was coming, but did not change how she reacted when we met. She gave me a big hug and we had breakfast together. I missed her a ton, and missed being able to have a conversation across the table with her. So to see her and enjoy her company again. She is wonderful for a lot of reasons, but one of them is because she is so different from me. She brings things to my attention that I had no idea about or would not have thought of before. She has skills and abilities that compliment my own, and I always enjoy being around her. To say it plainly: I like her a lot.
Our relationship, although strong in some respects, really needed a personal touch were we could interact in person and spend some quality time with each other. This weekend provided that and more for us and the relationship. I received some great advice, valuable experiences, wonderful encouragement.
The next important person that I met that morning was Ross. One of my best friends, I nearly tackled him when I saw him. Just being with him and felt at home and a friendship that I missed dearly. Ross has this business of correcting me and keeping me in line - a full time job for a least two people (Him and Rachel). In his presence I know I can be myself and trust him. A relationship like that is worth the cost of tuition for sure, and I would pay double if I had to. Having Ross as a friend is worth it.
Next to walk into breakfast was Puffy, my roommate from the year before - a friend that I could not replace. He is by far one of the most understanding, accepting, and loving people I know. He is a man that has received much love from Christ in his life. And as Christ himself spoke: he who is forgiven much, loves much. The emphasis being more on the love aspect. Once again, I didn't know how much I missed that relationship until I had it again and experienced it. No that I am back in Ohio again, I know how valuable that relationship was to me.
I think a lot of people feel this way before they meet Christ. They think their lives are just fine, living okay lives without much complaint. They don't seem to be missing anything, but only because they never knew they lost anything. They say that everything is okay, but something is still missing. An aspect of satisfaction, love, forgiveness, friendship or something just isn't quite right. The reason they are okay with that is because they have never experience what it means to have a full tank, a complete life with Christ in the equation.
After breakfast I presented the internship in Career Chapel, I met more people, I said hello to my old dorm dad, met more people, set up for lunch with Ross, met more people, and ate lunch with the pretty girl on campus.
That night I met up with Zac, a student from the youth group out there. I was honestly blown away. Yeah he had a cool bike, he has grown a few inches it seemed, and he is a lot more talkative, but what got me was how he has grown spiritually. The Zac I knew last could answer some questions and had a concept of God, but when I met him that night I was the one being taught. He demonstrated such faith in the midst of his trails and trusted that God had a plan for them. It was like a spiritual growth spurt, and in areas it seemed like he was out growing me.
I finally crashed at Eric's house that night around 1am only to wake up again at 5:30am for breakfast with Chris. Best part of that breakfast - leaving a $25 tip on a $15 meal. I wish I could have seen the ladies face when she picked that up. Both Chris and I came expecting to pay for the meal, so we figured that we would both give what we had expected to pay. Made my morning for sure.
I had breakfast two more times before 11am with Eric and Rachel, and the "men's" breakfast group that meet on Saturdays. I had lunch only an hour later, and dinner a few hours past that. With Pizza that night, I ended up having 6 meals that day. So good.
Short of seeing Rachel, the most important aspect of my weekend was the play Saturday night. I was not prepared for what God was going to reveal in me that night, but I don't think He wanted me to be. I cried that night, and it felt great. I welcomed the tears, that is until the lights came on, but even then I didn't fight them to hard. The play revealed how much I feel pressured from the standards of this world and how much I long for acceptance and grace. I related to the character that said "its hard out there" meaning that the world has high expectations for people. I know what it feel like to have things asked of me that I have no ability to preform simply because I cannot. The pressure is so heavy, and it is so real. I hurt for those that feel that pressure and have no release. I say to you, come to Christ! For His pressure is light, and his expectations are few. For those that are tired of dealing with the worlds requirements, He promises rest (Matt 11:28).
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
2 years
Pictures are worth a thousand words I understand, but I would still need at least a thousand pictures. This weekend marks two years of dating Rachel, my best friend. Here are a few pictures that I took with my phone:
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| This is during the drive back. The picture doesn't do justice, the view was incredible. Color everywhere |
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| Sunday morning sunrise, getting ready to drive back to Ohio. Great way to start the morning |
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| Lunch at the Janowski's. I was so full, but I just couldn't help it. Great food |
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| Arts and crafts at the Hricko's house. Roses made from maple leaves for Rachel. |
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| Beautiful music, beautiful piano, beautiful Rachel. |
Rachel Playing piano, Oliver the dog listening in.
Friday, October 21, 2011
BBCity
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Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
God Showed Up
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. (John 3:16-21 NIV)
Once upon a time there was a boy named Jeremy. He loved to surprise people and to help in any way that he can, and if there was a way to surprise people by helping them it only made it better. But there was one thing that he loved more than both of those, and that was his Dad. He did not see his Dad much, but he looked forward to every moment that he had with his Dad. Jeremy got excited when he would run out and meet his Dad coming home from work in his blue sports car, or when his Dad would bring him home something from a business trip. Whatever it was it did not really matter, Jeremy looked forward to spending time with his Dad and would remember the time spent together more than anything else.
Some nights, he remembers them well, he and his Dad would watch TV together and it come time for bed for little Jeremy. Much like any 6 year old, he did not want to go to bed but his Dad insisted that he go to bed. Jeremy's Dad said that he would be down shortly to check on him and help him make his bed before he went to sleep. Jeremy took this as an opportunity to do what he loved to do, help and surprise people - he made his bed quickly and went and hid under his covers to try and scare his Dad. Although he knew nothing scared his Dad, and definitely not little Jeremy, he always liked to try. The first few times it back fired and his Dad scared Jeremy more then he scared his Dad, and eventually became like a late night game of hide and seek in his room before bed the night when Dad was home.
Then came a night that Jeremy remembers well. After he was told to go to bed by his Dad, Jeremy raced down stairs to make his bed and hide. He found the perfect hiding place even though it was the same one that he used only two nights before. He tried his best to slow his breathing to better hid from his Dad and increase the nearly impossible odds that he wouldn't be found. He lied there under his bed for what seemed like forever for a little kid waiting for his Dad. He waited and waited, but he didn't even hear foot steps. After a while he gave up the hope that he Dad would show up and just went to bed. He believed that he Dad either forgot or did not care. Either way this was one of the last times that Jeremy hid from his Dad.
Many years later, Jeremy now a young teenager, still loved to surprise people and work hard to help people, but he had an unknown fear of surprising his own Dad. He would hang out with him and want to be with him, but Jeremy was scared to trust him. He was not sure he would show up or like his surprises. Not trusting people or believing what people would say eventually became a characteristic of Jeremy's life to everyone, not just his Dad. Yet even in the midst of his distrust, Jeremy always wanted his Dad to show up and just be there.
There came another night, one that Jeremy also remembers but does not fully understand. His Dad drove him quietly to a place called Church. They hardly talked the whole way their, and the only thing Jeremy remembers is his Dad saying "I'll be back at 8 to pick you up." Jeremy liked Church because he could go his whole day there and not have people bother him or talk to him. It was like hiding for the world. Even though he liked being invisible and not being found out, yet deep down he wanted someone to find him and be with him. That night, Someone did. Jeremy heard a story of God, who no one could hide from, and would never leave leave anyone who believed that He is real. This sounded to good to be true for Jeremy, but he wanted to believe it. This God that they talked about forgave mistakes, healed distrust and would be like a perfect Father to those who would trust Him. Jeremy knew where this was going and began to break down over the story and more importantly over this God.
Crying, Jeremy went to find someone who would help him understand how to get this God and how to believe in Someone he could not see. Jeremy is told that he does not have to "do" anything, just believe that God is real and present, and trust His Son with everything. As likely you would guess, Jeremy did not like the idea of trusting Jesus in this way. He still have a lot of distrust when it came to relying on people, whether it was Jesus Christ or not, but he had to do something. Jeremy wanted to trust this Jesus and be known by this perfect Father, and so through tears, he said that he would - not even knowing what that means. Jeremy just knew that this God showed up and called him out of hiding into the light and wanted to be with him, and that was enough. Jeremy trusted in Jesus to bring him to the Father, and his life has never been the same.
Since that night Jeremy has had a roller coaster of a life, with good and bad times alike. At times he would try and hide from God, but it never worked - Jesus always found him and called him out. Another time a rough situation came, but Jesus is there and Jeremy can trust Him to be there. There is no place that he can go that Jesus is not present also. There is no mistake or evil so bad that Jesus would not forgive him, and there is no hiding place good enough that Jesus would not find him. At times Jeremy thought it impossible that Jesus could ever find him in the mistakes he made and forgive him for what he had done, and it was those times that Jesus showed up the brightest and forgave the most.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Making my bed
A dear friend of mine lost his buffalo yesterday - at least that is when I heard about it. He died, to my knowledge, of unknown causes. I have gone down there a few times now and have grown to love those buffalo, and it pains me to hear that even one has died. But truth is, now three have in the past months. That leaves only one of the baby buffalo.
God, I know it is a strange request, but I ask that you give comfort to my friends as they experience loss. This is of no comparison to the loss that you experience when you sent and watched you own son die, but the pain is still real. If anything, help me be lead by your spirit to understand what I can do to serve my friend as they experience this pain. Amen
I was house/baby sitting last night for a family in our youth group. I knew the family. Kind of. Even still, it is very strange to stay at someone's house and take on the role of a parent. Being put in this situation, it made me think of stories when I was a kid and when my parents had some interaction with me. Add to this a conversation that I had with my sister on the same subject (how her relationship with our parents has effected her life) and a lot of things that happened over the weekend. One story that I remember was when I was about 6 years old.
Every night or every few nights we had the change the sheets on our bed and make our beds before we go to sleep that night. I would normally remember to do this right before I went to bed and sometime my Dad would help me with it. At least that is what he said. We would be watching TV when it came time to go to bed. Dad sent me down stairs and said he would be down in a minute to help, and most times he would. A few times I was fast enough to get down there, make my bed, and hide before he showed up. I looked forward to him finding me and making me go to bed. It was like hide and seek, and it was one of the positive interaction that I remember having with my Dad. I'll be honest, it got to the point that I looked forward to changing my sheets and making my bed just so Dad would come and find me and put me to bed.
One night Dad sent me to bed and said that he would be down in a minute or so. I rushed down the stairs, made my bed and hid under my bed. I was so excited to see if my dad could come find me. I waited in excitement for the door to open and see my dad come in and look for me. And I waited. And waited. He never came down that night to find me, I nearly fell asleep under my bed hiding. I came out and went to bed thinking that he either forgot or didn't think it was important to come find me. I don't like this part of my memory.
The night my Dad didn't show up something happened to me. I felt forgotten and neglected. I don't think I realized it at the time, but this effected how I relate to my father and how I view people in general. I lost my ability to depend on people. At the end of the day, I just simply don't believe people really care - about me or anything. I was hurt, and still hurt over the fact that he didn't show up. This has even affected my view of God and his presence and faithfulness.
I want to be extremely clear now. I am not angry or mad at my dad at all. I love him more now than ever before. I simply wanted to share a story of how my life has been drastically changed by a single event in my life. Relationship between father and son are some of the most impacting situations that I know of. Though this one seems small, it has made much more of an impression than I thought it would. I share this story because I believe when we bring things to the light, God can allow healing to take place. Not only that, but others might be able to find healing through this as well.
To all the Dads out there, or anyone that might be a dad in the future. Do not forget your kid, it might seem silly to tuck him in at night or walk with him out to the bus, or even wish him a happy birthday now that he is long gone at college, but I tell you as a son. It means the world and more.
I have felt a great deal of pain in my life - mostly relational - and I would do it all again and more to hear my dad say that he loves me, or to see him show up when I need him. Those mean the world (I am crying writing this) to me, and I would imagine others as well. Please, as a Dad or parent or even just a friend, show up and be there. It won't be easy, but it is worth it
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
God, I know it is a strange request, but I ask that you give comfort to my friends as they experience loss. This is of no comparison to the loss that you experience when you sent and watched you own son die, but the pain is still real. If anything, help me be lead by your spirit to understand what I can do to serve my friend as they experience this pain. Amen
I was house/baby sitting last night for a family in our youth group. I knew the family. Kind of. Even still, it is very strange to stay at someone's house and take on the role of a parent. Being put in this situation, it made me think of stories when I was a kid and when my parents had some interaction with me. Add to this a conversation that I had with my sister on the same subject (how her relationship with our parents has effected her life) and a lot of things that happened over the weekend. One story that I remember was when I was about 6 years old.
Every night or every few nights we had the change the sheets on our bed and make our beds before we go to sleep that night. I would normally remember to do this right before I went to bed and sometime my Dad would help me with it. At least that is what he said. We would be watching TV when it came time to go to bed. Dad sent me down stairs and said he would be down in a minute to help, and most times he would. A few times I was fast enough to get down there, make my bed, and hide before he showed up. I looked forward to him finding me and making me go to bed. It was like hide and seek, and it was one of the positive interaction that I remember having with my Dad. I'll be honest, it got to the point that I looked forward to changing my sheets and making my bed just so Dad would come and find me and put me to bed.
One night Dad sent me to bed and said that he would be down in a minute or so. I rushed down the stairs, made my bed and hid under my bed. I was so excited to see if my dad could come find me. I waited in excitement for the door to open and see my dad come in and look for me. And I waited. And waited. He never came down that night to find me, I nearly fell asleep under my bed hiding. I came out and went to bed thinking that he either forgot or didn't think it was important to come find me. I don't like this part of my memory.
The night my Dad didn't show up something happened to me. I felt forgotten and neglected. I don't think I realized it at the time, but this effected how I relate to my father and how I view people in general. I lost my ability to depend on people. At the end of the day, I just simply don't believe people really care - about me or anything. I was hurt, and still hurt over the fact that he didn't show up. This has even affected my view of God and his presence and faithfulness.
I want to be extremely clear now. I am not angry or mad at my dad at all. I love him more now than ever before. I simply wanted to share a story of how my life has been drastically changed by a single event in my life. Relationship between father and son are some of the most impacting situations that I know of. Though this one seems small, it has made much more of an impression than I thought it would. I share this story because I believe when we bring things to the light, God can allow healing to take place. Not only that, but others might be able to find healing through this as well.
To all the Dads out there, or anyone that might be a dad in the future. Do not forget your kid, it might seem silly to tuck him in at night or walk with him out to the bus, or even wish him a happy birthday now that he is long gone at college, but I tell you as a son. It means the world and more.
I have felt a great deal of pain in my life - mostly relational - and I would do it all again and more to hear my dad say that he loves me, or to see him show up when I need him. Those mean the world (I am crying writing this) to me, and I would imagine others as well. Please, as a Dad or parent or even just a friend, show up and be there. It won't be easy, but it is worth it
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
Monday, October 17, 2011
Current Annoyance
My current annoyance with writing is, whenever something truly worth writing about happens, I don't have the time or the words to write about it. Lame!
I talked with my little sister yesterday, my grandpa turned 84 and was moving furniture with my Dad. I am glad my dad is hanging out with grandpa more.
My post may or not come this week. I have a whole lot to do this week. For a pilgrim, this would be the uphill climb. The only thing that I want to do is get through it, but I also know that this is the time when the most learning will take place. I am going to have to make time to write I guess. Pray for me, that is a whole ton coming my way
Blessings
Later
I talked with my little sister yesterday, my grandpa turned 84 and was moving furniture with my Dad. I am glad my dad is hanging out with grandpa more.
My post may or not come this week. I have a whole lot to do this week. For a pilgrim, this would be the uphill climb. The only thing that I want to do is get through it, but I also know that this is the time when the most learning will take place. I am going to have to make time to write I guess. Pray for me, that is a whole ton coming my way
Blessings
Later
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Leading in Active Learning Environments- Obj. One
The objective reads: Comprehends organizational leadership principles, employing them for the articulation of a vision, evaluation of existing realities, development of strategy, and the implementation of a plan of action.
There is a progression within this objective. First I need to understand the principles of leading an organization, all the people involved and the culture of it, and how to grow a group instead of just a person. The dynamics change drastically when going from an individual to a group. There are certain things that exist when more than one person is involved. There is a culture that exist in groups or even between friends, and definitely within an organization. Leading the organization would involve existing or speaking into that culture and moving it in a direction for change. How do I lead an organization, even just a small group, the first is to be able to understand where they are before trying to move them somewhere else. There needs to be some level of trust or authority before leading can really take place.
As it relates to my small group that meets on Wednesday nights. The first thing I need to do is get to know all the students in my group and build a level of trust. Yet at the same time I cannot slow down the program aspect of the group - I can't stop teaching or leading the group just to get to know the students. The relationships will have to build themselves or be built outside the context of the group in order for the group to continue to progress. Building the relationship in the group means experiencing things together, whether positive or negative experiences that everyone can relate to and can participate. The group could easily do the bible study without any of the things listed, but with common experiences and a relationship of trust I believe the group can begin to grow in ways that it couldn't before.
In the process of getting to know students in my small group I will find the personalities within the group and the strong dynamics that exist between the individuals. It might be a culture of hanging out, or playing video games, or heavy discussion. It is then the role of the leader to take those dynamics and position or deal with them for the best of the group. If the culture of the group is heavy on discussion, lead discussion. If the group is active and wants to get involved, find areas or opportunities for involvement. Every group is different and needs to be dealt with differently. Group will vary in how willing they are to get into deep issues of life, or how willing they are to take action, but whatever the group it is my role to help them grow where to would not normally.
In addition to knowing the group personality and culture, the next principle that comes up is the abilities and skills of the group. The natural leaders will rise to the surface, those that don't really want to be there will communicate their distaste, the disruptive ones will be notices and so forth. Take the natural leader and give him a chance to lead discussion or present a lesson. Have a conversation with the student that doesn't like to be there and figure out they dislike about group or would prefer about group. Give disruptive students either something to disable them or allow within the group a chance for them to get it out of their system. The result is put those with a positive influence in a higher place of influence, and remove or at least lower those with a negative affect on the group. My goal as a leader is to know the gifts and abilities of those in the group and build a "team" around those gifts for the benefit of the group. The group as a whole will have a "sweet spot", an area that is really good at, and that is another chance to position them to shine and use their gifts.
Once a group has been developed and a "team" has been built, a leader can begin to dream and create a vision for what that particular team can accomplish. Much like everything within a group or organization, everything changes with the individuals that make the group. Initially when casting a vision it is open ended with little concrete objectives, mostly because I don't believe a vision should be something that is obtainable, but also because as a group we need something to shoot for. A vision takes the passions of the group, what makes the group excited and pushes it to a new level for something to chase after, something beyond the immediate reach of those involved. A vision is both a challenge and exciting. A vision would be comparable to a distant or future goal that is currently improbable but not impossible."Think of all the possibilities...!"
Since I haven't got to know the students within my group, it is hard to cast an accurate vision of what could truly happen through them and what they could become. But regardless of the group, some aspects of a vision don't change regardless of persons involved. With a vision you want to envision each person involved living passionately for Christ and using their gifts and abilities to their fullest potential. The group working together seamlessly as an organic machine to accomplish something impossible apart from the group. I want to see the group as a place where student not only enjoy but thrive in and leave empowered.
Getting to knowing the group and developing a team would be considered point A, the vision would be thought of as point B, leaving the leader to create a plan to get from one point to the other. To do this there needs to be a strategy. Much like a road map taking turn by turn directions, a strategy has step by step objectives to reach to goal and chase after the greater vision of what the group can do. A strategy involves all the knowledge gained from beginning to end and working together with the team to create objectives or steps to best go after the vision that has been cast. Unlike a vision, a strategy is very concrete, measurable and totally achiveable at every step.
Implementing a plan of action is the last part of leadership that is done, but far from least important. Not taking action would be like making a cake and then not baking it. You do all the hard work without any results. Implementation can either be done causally or aggressively depending on the group dynamic and the culture the group exist in. Given what I know of my group so far, I would say that the more aggressively we go after the vision and objectives within our strategy, the more receptive they will be do being a part of it. They don't seem like a group that just wants to be causal about going after something, but wants to dive headlong with everything. This is still the beginning so it is hard to say what will truly take place when it comes to implementation.
Part of this project is to report back on how the objective was met or attempted. Given that I remember, I will report back after a few weeks and let you know how it is going.
Blessings
Later
There is a progression within this objective. First I need to understand the principles of leading an organization, all the people involved and the culture of it, and how to grow a group instead of just a person. The dynamics change drastically when going from an individual to a group. There are certain things that exist when more than one person is involved. There is a culture that exist in groups or even between friends, and definitely within an organization. Leading the organization would involve existing or speaking into that culture and moving it in a direction for change. How do I lead an organization, even just a small group, the first is to be able to understand where they are before trying to move them somewhere else. There needs to be some level of trust or authority before leading can really take place.
As it relates to my small group that meets on Wednesday nights. The first thing I need to do is get to know all the students in my group and build a level of trust. Yet at the same time I cannot slow down the program aspect of the group - I can't stop teaching or leading the group just to get to know the students. The relationships will have to build themselves or be built outside the context of the group in order for the group to continue to progress. Building the relationship in the group means experiencing things together, whether positive or negative experiences that everyone can relate to and can participate. The group could easily do the bible study without any of the things listed, but with common experiences and a relationship of trust I believe the group can begin to grow in ways that it couldn't before.
In the process of getting to know students in my small group I will find the personalities within the group and the strong dynamics that exist between the individuals. It might be a culture of hanging out, or playing video games, or heavy discussion. It is then the role of the leader to take those dynamics and position or deal with them for the best of the group. If the culture of the group is heavy on discussion, lead discussion. If the group is active and wants to get involved, find areas or opportunities for involvement. Every group is different and needs to be dealt with differently. Group will vary in how willing they are to get into deep issues of life, or how willing they are to take action, but whatever the group it is my role to help them grow where to would not normally.
In addition to knowing the group personality and culture, the next principle that comes up is the abilities and skills of the group. The natural leaders will rise to the surface, those that don't really want to be there will communicate their distaste, the disruptive ones will be notices and so forth. Take the natural leader and give him a chance to lead discussion or present a lesson. Have a conversation with the student that doesn't like to be there and figure out they dislike about group or would prefer about group. Give disruptive students either something to disable them or allow within the group a chance for them to get it out of their system. The result is put those with a positive influence in a higher place of influence, and remove or at least lower those with a negative affect on the group. My goal as a leader is to know the gifts and abilities of those in the group and build a "team" around those gifts for the benefit of the group. The group as a whole will have a "sweet spot", an area that is really good at, and that is another chance to position them to shine and use their gifts.
Once a group has been developed and a "team" has been built, a leader can begin to dream and create a vision for what that particular team can accomplish. Much like everything within a group or organization, everything changes with the individuals that make the group. Initially when casting a vision it is open ended with little concrete objectives, mostly because I don't believe a vision should be something that is obtainable, but also because as a group we need something to shoot for. A vision takes the passions of the group, what makes the group excited and pushes it to a new level for something to chase after, something beyond the immediate reach of those involved. A vision is both a challenge and exciting. A vision would be comparable to a distant or future goal that is currently improbable but not impossible."Think of all the possibilities...!"
Since I haven't got to know the students within my group, it is hard to cast an accurate vision of what could truly happen through them and what they could become. But regardless of the group, some aspects of a vision don't change regardless of persons involved. With a vision you want to envision each person involved living passionately for Christ and using their gifts and abilities to their fullest potential. The group working together seamlessly as an organic machine to accomplish something impossible apart from the group. I want to see the group as a place where student not only enjoy but thrive in and leave empowered.
Getting to knowing the group and developing a team would be considered point A, the vision would be thought of as point B, leaving the leader to create a plan to get from one point to the other. To do this there needs to be a strategy. Much like a road map taking turn by turn directions, a strategy has step by step objectives to reach to goal and chase after the greater vision of what the group can do. A strategy involves all the knowledge gained from beginning to end and working together with the team to create objectives or steps to best go after the vision that has been cast. Unlike a vision, a strategy is very concrete, measurable and totally achiveable at every step.
Implementing a plan of action is the last part of leadership that is done, but far from least important. Not taking action would be like making a cake and then not baking it. You do all the hard work without any results. Implementation can either be done causally or aggressively depending on the group dynamic and the culture the group exist in. Given what I know of my group so far, I would say that the more aggressively we go after the vision and objectives within our strategy, the more receptive they will be do being a part of it. They don't seem like a group that just wants to be causal about going after something, but wants to dive headlong with everything. This is still the beginning so it is hard to say what will truly take place when it comes to implementation.
Part of this project is to report back on how the objective was met or attempted. Given that I remember, I will report back after a few weeks and let you know how it is going.
Blessings
Later
Monday, October 10, 2011
On a Positive Note - full circle
Yesterday it was brought to my attention - whether intentionally or not - that most of my post on here have a slightly negative feel to them or are just my rants for the week. I would agree, but that would be something that I would like to change. I want to bring out the good, not just point out the bad. I think it would be easy for me just to keep breaking things down and be critical of things, but that is not my job at all. I am suppose to editify and build up.
11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. ~Eph 4:11-13.Christ gave different people to do different jobs, all of them with the purpose of building up the body of Christ to the end that we become more like Christ. This says nothing about being negative or critical, I think that is a very fleshly idea that I have believed to be a good idea. It is time that changed and I start building instead of breaking.
(Before I say anything in the next paragraph, remember this is a blog, not the bible. If in search for truth go to God and his word, not my blog. These words are just my thoughts and reactions to the world around me. They could very well be wrong. I am an intern at a church, I don't really know that much. My conclusions are worth about as much as any one's)
I was talking with someone, I forget who, that the goal of a Christian is not just to stop sinning. That is a result, but not the goal. It is something that we should try and do, but it shouldn't be the reason way we as Christian do something. Am I saying that Christians shouldn't worry about sin? Heck no! Sin is bad, Christians should avoid it, but that is something more important than just not sinning. That, I believe is to follow and pursue Christ in all areas of life. This is something that I need to work on for sure.
Sunday was super busy! From sun up to sun down was filled with activity and people with little room for much else. We had the Middle School Ministry in the morning starting our first small group session with them, then right after that we had a party for pastor and his wife. 35 years of marriage, that is something worth celebrating! My favorite party of the whole thing was watching the wife/mom watch the video of their years together and the kids growing up. She started to cry, and I watched in astonishment to see love. Her boys were the ones that made the video for them, and they loved doing it. Little things like that are what get me.
Rachel and I had a very important conversation Wednesday. At least I think it is important. The subject was about being emotional mature and being comfortable with our emotions. I know this is something that I have tried very hard to stay away from and protect myself from - being vulnerable and emotional. I have lived a good deal of my life protecting myself emotionally and keeping myself from showing emotions because I think that they show immaturity and weakness. After the conversation I think that is a lie and being emotionally mature involves being open and.... well, emotional. I think that being stubborn and emotionally cold is really the immature thing, which has been something I have taken pride in - to think objectively and disregard emotions as just a feeling. This might be good when dealing with problems or with certain situations, but it leaves my life empty and joyless. But Christians are to have joy, peaces, love (Emotions), as well as self-control and clear thinking. You see my tension?
I know a guy named Jake, a good friend of mine and someone that I enjoy being around immensely! He has the ability to break down all my emotional walls and gain my complete trust as soon as I start talking with him. He some how brings me out of my shell and I experience peace, comfort and joy. I laugh like I have never laughed, and experience joy. I only wish that I could experience more often and with other people. Yet I have this tension as I have said to perform and be this objective person and protect myself emotionally. Both Rachel and I feel this tension: to think clearly and objectively and at the same time we both so eagerly want to experience the joy and peace that God has for us. The question is how is that supposed to happen?
I don't believe that I am able to experience the fullness of joy and still be the emotionless objective person that I am. Something needs to give, or I need to give something. I don't believe that I am the first person to be asking this question. "How do I gain this quality of life that God is talking about? How can I gain life abundant?" The other guy that I know of that asked this question is found in the bible, Luke Chapter 10:
25And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” 27 And he answered, “YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” 28 And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29 But wishing to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?... 10:25-29Most people don't notice the slight change of topic, I know I didn't until someone pointed it out to me. The Lawyer ask, "what must I do to have ETERNAL life?" Then Jesus changes the subject by saying "Do this and you will live." He says nothing of eternal life, just merely life on earth and possibly fulfillment. Granted the lawyer is testing Jesus, but the answer is valid as well as the question. The answer is to a greater question, "How do I have life (of eternal quality)" To have life you must love God with your everything - heart, soul, strength, and mind - and love your neighbor as well as yourself. At first this seems simple enough, but as I thought about it in the context of my tension, I noticed something I had not before. It says to love God with all your HEART and SOUL - I read this as my emotional side. To have life of any good quality it involves loving God with everything, even my emotions. This I know I have not done. I have given God my time, my energy, my mind, my money, at my best even my life, but I don't believe I have ever given Him my Heart. I have not given my heart to God and I know that I have not loved Him with all my heart - I have kept it for myself to protect.
This needs to change if I ever want to experience the joy that God has for me. If I or anyone else ever want to fully experience all that God has, it involves loving God with everything by giving God everything. Including my heart and my emotions. I need to begin to start taking down the walls around my heart and give my heart over to God. The initial pain and discomfort will be there without a doubt, but the reward of joy will be worth it. God desires to give us life, and life abundantly. The next question is simple, what do you need to give to God?
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Life as an intern - MTD
So as most who read this blog know, I am currently doing an internship to finish off my undergrad degree in youth ministry. It is also a great place to get some great hands on experience for the ministry that I could be going into - whatever it ends up being. The internship has a vast array of different situation that our team has to think through and deal with. Regardless of what ministry or even job I end up going into, this internship is going to be a valuable experience on all account. But, this is not to say that I agree with everything, or that I enjoy everything. To be completely honest, as I was telling someone the other day, the parts that I dislike, disagree with, and find down right annoying are probably going to be the most valuable part of this whole internship deal. One of "those" things that I feel somewhat negatively towards would a paper that I get to write - I say "get to write" because I am trying to stay positive about the whole thing. I don't know how well that is going through.
This paper consist primarily with the records of how the course objectives were reached for or obtained. I basically take each course objective and write about how I went about trying to fulfill it, or how it was fulfilled given that I completed it. The writing should be done in a very objective fashion from the research perspective. If you know me at all, what has so far been outline as the guidelines for my paper is everything that I dislike about it. I have to laugh. I laugh because it will also be the thing that will challenge me to grow spiritually and will make this internship worth it. Even the bible says that suffering produces godliness. So I say, let the challenge begin. Bring it.
I will be writing this paper in sections, most likely as blog post because I want to share my experience with you as I go and maybe you could help me too. I always need it. What I am posting will be far from my final draft and will probably undergo much editing by my secretary (Rachel) given she is up for it.
First I would like to point out that this is a class on organization leadership - how to be a leader within the context of an organization. This class is offered at my different locations and institutions for a variety of different reason, but I am taking it for the purpose of becoming a pastor (in the biblical since, not merely as a leader of a church building) in the context of a church and bible college. The objectives, since the class is for both bible and non-bible base education, have been written in such a way that principle is written without relation to spiritual growth or dependency on God. Try harder and do better approach. Much like any other leadership development that I have seen - not saying that I have seen them all. "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism" (MTD) is a term used to describe people becoming a better and good moral person without relation to faith in Jesus through the holy spirit to the glory of God. We are actually doing a lesson this weekend on the subject in our church, and yet this is the context my objectives are written in for the internship. Irony perhaps?
All this to say, one of the first things I would like to do is find the principle given and connect it to the bible and faith in Christ. That is the goal at least. Some of the objectives, such as "Maintain familiarity with legal standards and precedents pertaining to issues of organizational liability" might be a little harder for me to lock down on, but I would like to give it a try. I know the professor who wrote the objective, and I know that he had the bible in mind when he wrote them, I just want to work backwards now and find what he was thinking. Especially and primarily with the leadership objectives because I believe those do not fully happen without connection to the Spirit of God through faith in Christ. The danger for me would be reading the objectives into the biblical text - Eisegesis. I think that would put me worse off then not dealing with the biblical principle at all.
On a more personal note: I started working at a new restaurant which lacks all organizational leadership and just organization in general. But hopefully the tips will be worth it. I pray that I would be salt and light while I am there, not arguing or complaining but acting as a servant to everyone. Being willing to be wronged or even cheated so as to follow Christ.
I hope to head home to Michigan by the end of the month, and given enough time and money, out to PA as well to see a special someone. There is a lot going on in both locations, but I don't know if I can get to both as soon as I would like. I pray where my feet can't take me, that God might work through someone else.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
This paper consist primarily with the records of how the course objectives were reached for or obtained. I basically take each course objective and write about how I went about trying to fulfill it, or how it was fulfilled given that I completed it. The writing should be done in a very objective fashion from the research perspective. If you know me at all, what has so far been outline as the guidelines for my paper is everything that I dislike about it. I have to laugh. I laugh because it will also be the thing that will challenge me to grow spiritually and will make this internship worth it. Even the bible says that suffering produces godliness. So I say, let the challenge begin. Bring it.
I will be writing this paper in sections, most likely as blog post because I want to share my experience with you as I go and maybe you could help me too. I always need it. What I am posting will be far from my final draft and will probably undergo much editing by my secretary (Rachel) given she is up for it.
First I would like to point out that this is a class on organization leadership - how to be a leader within the context of an organization. This class is offered at my different locations and institutions for a variety of different reason, but I am taking it for the purpose of becoming a pastor (in the biblical since, not merely as a leader of a church building) in the context of a church and bible college. The objectives, since the class is for both bible and non-bible base education, have been written in such a way that principle is written without relation to spiritual growth or dependency on God. Try harder and do better approach. Much like any other leadership development that I have seen - not saying that I have seen them all. "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism" (MTD) is a term used to describe people becoming a better and good moral person without relation to faith in Jesus through the holy spirit to the glory of God. We are actually doing a lesson this weekend on the subject in our church, and yet this is the context my objectives are written in for the internship. Irony perhaps?
All this to say, one of the first things I would like to do is find the principle given and connect it to the bible and faith in Christ. That is the goal at least. Some of the objectives, such as "Maintain familiarity with legal standards and precedents pertaining to issues of organizational liability" might be a little harder for me to lock down on, but I would like to give it a try. I know the professor who wrote the objective, and I know that he had the bible in mind when he wrote them, I just want to work backwards now and find what he was thinking. Especially and primarily with the leadership objectives because I believe those do not fully happen without connection to the Spirit of God through faith in Christ. The danger for me would be reading the objectives into the biblical text - Eisegesis. I think that would put me worse off then not dealing with the biblical principle at all.
On a more personal note: I started working at a new restaurant which lacks all organizational leadership and just organization in general. But hopefully the tips will be worth it. I pray that I would be salt and light while I am there, not arguing or complaining but acting as a servant to everyone. Being willing to be wronged or even cheated so as to follow Christ.
I hope to head home to Michigan by the end of the month, and given enough time and money, out to PA as well to see a special someone. There is a lot going on in both locations, but I don't know if I can get to both as soon as I would like. I pray where my feet can't take me, that God might work through someone else.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
We're sent into dangerous territory
We're sent into dangerous territory to connect with those who are open to the healing and hope found in Jesus Christ
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Snail mail
I think that I need to start posting more than once a week. So much happens during a week that it is hard to remember at the end of the week what all happened and when. But I also realize that if I posted more that I would get over whelm thinking that I need to report everything that happens, but I don't think that is true. If I just hit on the big things from the week, kind of like an overview, it is better for me. Helps me see what the big picture of the week is.
It was Sam's birthday on Thursday. It made her day that I would remember her birthday. It also provided a chance for me to make a connection since I haven't worked with her in a long time. I didn't work last weekend and I didn't work this weekend either. I wish there was a way that I could work with her and have conversations without having to work on the weekend. It just isn't practical to keep working up in the city - cost just as much as I make up there. So I am starting to work closer to home and be able to keep more of the money that I make.
At the new place that I am working there are mostly students. High school or just graduated in the last year or so. I am excited to see what will come of the relationships that I build there. I have already, as you know, been invited to another church and had conversations about what I believe and what he believes. I hope to build more relationships too. That would be one of the advantages of this new job - more relationships. Pray that I would be wise in my decision making about taking a new job and building new relationships. I don't want to forget relationships made in the past.
I got a message back from one of the moms about starting Epic back up, an after school Bible study for those that don't go to church or don't have time. I think that she said it is starting back up next Tuesday. Hopefully she means the 11th, because I have work this Tuesday and wouldn't be able to make it. Whatever the case, this week or next, I am very excited about getting into the high school (without the cops being called) and helping students in their spiritual walk. High school is such a dark place and such a hard place to be. I have never been, but I have seen what it does to people, and I have heard stories from my sister about it. Not exactly vacation. But God has called us to be lights, and where better than in the dark. Pray that I can lead that group well. I am excited, but nervous - I don't know what I am getting into.
In the last few days, maybe this whole week, I have felt a need to reach my family again. It has been a long time since I have talked with any of them, and I miss them all. I want to be able to give an answer when someone ask how my family is doing. Because, to be honest right now I have no idea. There are 9 people that are in 7 different places at any give time with who knows what going on in their lives. I need to talk with them more often. If anything for sake, to show that I still care. I haven't been a good brother or son the last couple of weeks, and I think that needs to change. The problems lies in the fact that it takes a large chuck of time to call 9 other people. Even if I can't get a hold of everyone, it still takes a while. and if everyone talks for even 10 Mins, there goes an hour and a half. I guess I just need to carve out some time each week to call someone. Maybe 5 one week and 4 the next. I need to figure out something. I can't neglect the sheep God has given me, nor the mission field.
I haven't talked with Rachel for a week - maybe more - and I am not a fan of that. I miss her enough from day to day, but when it goes passed a week it is very hard. We push through it because that is what needs to be done, but I don't enjoy it. I want to share what I have learned that week or what my plans are, and it is not easy when communication is limited. What am I saying though, being able to call someone twice a week plus snail mail is a lot more than some people had only 30 years ago. The other side says that we are crazy for only talking that much. Most people talk everyday, maybe even with video chat and here I am using snail mail. Oh well. I enjoy writing letters as well as getting them. It is pretty old school, but that is just who I am I guess.
I got a text from a close friend of mine early this morning (12:31am). I am very excited to have a skype date with her, or maybe just a phone call. Either way I am excited to see what she has been up to and what God has been teaching her. She is like my little sister and I miss looking after her. She said she wanted to talk, which tugs on my heart and makes me want to help in any way that I can. I hope all is well. If not, I hope Christ can work through me and be of some help.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
It was Sam's birthday on Thursday. It made her day that I would remember her birthday. It also provided a chance for me to make a connection since I haven't worked with her in a long time. I didn't work last weekend and I didn't work this weekend either. I wish there was a way that I could work with her and have conversations without having to work on the weekend. It just isn't practical to keep working up in the city - cost just as much as I make up there. So I am starting to work closer to home and be able to keep more of the money that I make.
At the new place that I am working there are mostly students. High school or just graduated in the last year or so. I am excited to see what will come of the relationships that I build there. I have already, as you know, been invited to another church and had conversations about what I believe and what he believes. I hope to build more relationships too. That would be one of the advantages of this new job - more relationships. Pray that I would be wise in my decision making about taking a new job and building new relationships. I don't want to forget relationships made in the past.
I got a message back from one of the moms about starting Epic back up, an after school Bible study for those that don't go to church or don't have time. I think that she said it is starting back up next Tuesday. Hopefully she means the 11th, because I have work this Tuesday and wouldn't be able to make it. Whatever the case, this week or next, I am very excited about getting into the high school (without the cops being called) and helping students in their spiritual walk. High school is such a dark place and such a hard place to be. I have never been, but I have seen what it does to people, and I have heard stories from my sister about it. Not exactly vacation. But God has called us to be lights, and where better than in the dark. Pray that I can lead that group well. I am excited, but nervous - I don't know what I am getting into.
In the last few days, maybe this whole week, I have felt a need to reach my family again. It has been a long time since I have talked with any of them, and I miss them all. I want to be able to give an answer when someone ask how my family is doing. Because, to be honest right now I have no idea. There are 9 people that are in 7 different places at any give time with who knows what going on in their lives. I need to talk with them more often. If anything for sake, to show that I still care. I haven't been a good brother or son the last couple of weeks, and I think that needs to change. The problems lies in the fact that it takes a large chuck of time to call 9 other people. Even if I can't get a hold of everyone, it still takes a while. and if everyone talks for even 10 Mins, there goes an hour and a half. I guess I just need to carve out some time each week to call someone. Maybe 5 one week and 4 the next. I need to figure out something. I can't neglect the sheep God has given me, nor the mission field.
I haven't talked with Rachel for a week - maybe more - and I am not a fan of that. I miss her enough from day to day, but when it goes passed a week it is very hard. We push through it because that is what needs to be done, but I don't enjoy it. I want to share what I have learned that week or what my plans are, and it is not easy when communication is limited. What am I saying though, being able to call someone twice a week plus snail mail is a lot more than some people had only 30 years ago. The other side says that we are crazy for only talking that much. Most people talk everyday, maybe even with video chat and here I am using snail mail. Oh well. I enjoy writing letters as well as getting them. It is pretty old school, but that is just who I am I guess.
I got a text from a close friend of mine early this morning (12:31am). I am very excited to have a skype date with her, or maybe just a phone call. Either way I am excited to see what she has been up to and what God has been teaching her. She is like my little sister and I miss looking after her. She said she wanted to talk, which tugs on my heart and makes me want to help in any way that I can. I hope all is well. If not, I hope Christ can work through me and be of some help.
Blessings from a pilgrim
Later
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