Washington D. C. -Wrap Up

Above: ECA 6th graders with Principal Debbie Evans

The final day of the trip was filled with lots of learning. We started the day by going to the Peterson House across from Ford's Theater. This is where President Abraham Lincoln died. (Ford's Theater was actually closed for renovation).

Next, we walked a couple blocks to The Old Post Office . It is quite a building with a wonderful view of D. C. from its tower. The building was also used as the first F.B.I. headquarters, complete with a training facility and shooting range in the basement for new recruits.

After lunch, we toured two Smithsonian Museums. The first was the Air and Space Museum where the students actually got to simulate landing an F-3 fighter onto an aircraft carrier. And then off to the Museum of Natural History. We saw the Hope Diamond, the object of every woman's dream, along with ancient artifacts from around the world (think: Night at the Museum). By the way, the strawberry gelato is awesome there!

The trip was wonderful and I learned many new things myself. The greatest blessing was spending time with my son, Joseph, and getting to know the students better. I had a great time with them. This is truly a special class filled with many talented individuals. I also enjoyed spending time with the other sponsors. They are Godly, wise and each unique in their own way. Mr. and Mrs. Evans, of course, were fantastic. Their insight from years of experience and Phil being able to maneuver the city was an unbeatable combination. I hope that we created memories, learning, and character experiences for each student. I know that many of them taught me something throughout the week. May God continue to bless you all! Here's a few more pictures:

Meeting with Rep. Emmanuel Cleaver, II

Joe & I at the Jefferson Memorial

One of Joe's favorite stops was the Iwo Jima Memorial

Washington D.C.- Days 3 and 4

The last couple of days have been really busy. We started our day Wednesday by going to a House of Representatives hearing room. Senate Chaplain Barry S. Black gave a wonderful sermon and shared his secret for success (Read a chapter of Proverbs every single day). After a time of prayer, we took a tour of the Capitol Building and met with Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, II. My son, Joseph, ended our time by praying for him.

The National Children's Prayer Congress always concludes by having an incredible banquet. We had a wonderful steak meal followed by great testimonies of God's grace from student delegates. It was a sun up to sun down kind of day.

Thursday was another full and emotional day which started at the Holocaust Museum for Daniel's Story. This tells of the genocide of the Jewish people through the eyes of a child.

Later we headed to the World War II Memorial, Iwo Jima Memorial and observed the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. It sounds strange to say, but these places always stir something deep within me. It's not common in our culture to hear people described with terms such as valor and honor. The legacy of freedom that we enjoy everyday, and often take for granted, was forged on the battlefield by men and women who deserve our highest appreciation and admiration. I sincerely respect those who serve in our armed services.

We also saw the Washington Monument and the FDR Memorial. Since I love history, I really enjoy being in DC. I have also enjoyed being around all the students. It's been fun! As 6th graders, they may not fully appreciate this experience now, but I know without a doubt that this time spent in the nation's capital will be remembered the rest of their lives.

Freedom Is Not Free- D.C. part 2

Korean War Memorial

Today was a very full day. We started off by going to the Embassy of Kuwait for a reception and prayer service. While you are on the property of an international embassy, you are technically on that country's sovereign soil. So we behaved!

We then went to the White House for a one mile prayer walk around the outside of the property, and we ended up outside the Executive Office Building for an official White House briefing from the President's staff and other government officials. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to government officials talk about the importance of prayer in their lives. You could sense their personal faith and connection with Christ. Powerful!

After a quick dinner at Union Station, we toured the Vietnam, Korean and Lincoln Memorials. For me this is always a somber time of reflection and thankfulness. I reflect upon the great sacrifice and commitment of those who have served our country, and I'm extremely grateful for this country and our freedom. By the Pool of Remembrance in the Korean War Veteran's Memorial is the etching, "Freedom is not Free." This is not only true in our civil life, but also in our spiritual life. Think about the sacrifice of Christ that purchased our freedom.

Above: Kuwait Embassy

Executive Office Building prayer briefing

Washington D.C.

This week I'm in the nation's capital with my son's 6th grade class. I'll try to keep you updated on our activities throughout the week.

Sunday: Joe & I arrived early before the rest of the group and took in the Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs baseball game. Maybe the best baseball stadium I've ever been in! ESPN Zone in the evening.

Monday: Great day except for the rain. We started the day off by going to the Pentagon which is the headquarters for the Defense Department and houses all branches of the U. S. Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Marine Corp, Air Force and Coast Guard.

This is one of my favorite tours in DC. With 17.5 miles of corridors and enough wires to wrap around the planet 4 1/2 times, it's impressive. We got to see the new 911 Memorial Chapel that remembers all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

A quick stop at the Jefferson Memorial in a downpour and then off to the National Cathedral. This place is awesome! They started building it in 1907 and didn't finish it until 1990 and is taken from Gothic architecture. Built out of Bedford Limestone from Indiana (go Hoosiers) it was really a dream of President George Washington who wanted "a great church for national purposes in the capital city."

Pink Impact Night

All ladies here in the KC area are invited to Englewood Ministries on Wed., April 30 at 7pm for an evening with the girls at Pink Impact. There will be giveaways, desserts, pink punch, a short devotional, and...shopping!

Paco Designs of Lenexa, Ks will be displaying lots of great items including designer and knock-off purses, jewelry, etc. Special personalized jewelry items for Mother's Day too.

So if you need to get Mom a gift for Mother's Day, or just want to treat yourself...this is your night. Invite a friend and we'll see you on Wednesday night! You can email me if you have any questions at revross12@comcast.net.

Bodies Revealed at Union Station

This week, I had the opportunity to view the Bodies Revealed exhibit at Union Station. It was definitely a fascinating experience. Try to go if you can. Our Creator is incredible!

Psalm 139:13-16 Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb. I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, The days of my life all prepared before I'd even lived one day. (MSG)

KC Chiefs All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience

Coming up on Saturday, May 3rd @ 9:00 a.m. - noon is the KC Chiefs All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience at Arrowhead Stadium. Come and join Coach Herm Edwards for a fun filled, interactive time with your children. Cost is $15 for a father + up to 4 kids. Recommended for ages 5 & up.

Watch the promo video and then click on the All Pro Dad image in the upper left hand corner to register. I hope to see you at Arrowhead! I know my sons, Joseph and Braeden, can't wait.

**For all you monthly All Pro Dads and kids, this will take the place of our regularly scheduled May meeting.

The Door of Hope

We open all kinds of doors everyday: bedroom doors, car doors, office doors, glass doors, screen doors, refrigerator doors, etc. Heck, even our pets have doors. This very simple metaphor was probably chosen by Christ because of its commonality. He said, "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture... I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:9,10)

But life can be disappointing at times. And it seems we continue to walk through the wrong doors and can't find that abundant life God desires for us. Sickness, being layed-off, relationship problems, car trouble, loneliness, financial pressure, unfulfilled dreams, or loss of a loved one can send our lives into a freefall.

When things like this happen, we ask, "Why is this happening to me?" In troubled times, let's remember Hosea 2:15, “There I[God]... will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.”

The word Achor is translated, "trouble." God is saying to you today, when you find yourself in the valley of trouble, I will provide a door of hope! And the good news is, it's a door that no one can shut. “See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.”

If you find yourself in a valley of trouble, step through The Door of Hope right now by saying a prayer and asking God for help.

Formula For Creativity

In part 1, we talked about the 4 Conditions For Creativity. Anyone can incorporate these four conditions into their life or work. But as for pastors and ministry leaders, we can think of church idea planning and ministry creativity using the following formula:

Inspiration + Creativity + Anointing = Interest = Impact

Ideas are inspired by God; creativity adds relevance; the anointing brings significance. These 3 added together equal high interest which equals the greatest potential impact on the lives of the people you serve.

Like many churches, we must be creative within the realm of our resources. That's both people and money. We don't have a Media or Creative department just waiting to transform our Sunday services into a stunning visual arts production. Nor do we have unlimited finances. That's okay. But God doesn't want us to sit around being creatively lazy either.

Lack of creativity in whatever area you are involved = BORING. Do you teach a boring class (always the same format)? Do you have a boring small group (never anything different, not even the food)? Are you a boring ministry volunteer (that same disposition every Sunday)? Are you a boring parent (the same daily routine)? Are you a boring friend (never an encouraging word)? Are you a boring worshipper (never bringing anything fresh or costly to God)? I Chron. 21:24

Do something different.

Ask God to inspire your thoughts and then ask Him to anoint your plan for creating change.

Get involved in something.

Quit sitting around complaining and waiting for other people to change things.

Get creative!

4 Conditions For Creativity

Being creative is a big part of life and leadership. Ideas, strategies, & illustrations all start somewhere. To cultivate creativity, sometimes the right conditions must be in place. Where does it all start? As Christ followers, we serve the ultimate "Creative Planner", God Himself. So let's start there.

4 Conditions For Creativity:

1. Creativity requires PRAYER. The best kind of creativity is a "holy creativity". Ideas don't always have to be born out of a huge time of prayer & fasting, but they should be inspired by God. Brian & I pray that even the thoughts that drop into our heads as we're watching a movie or TV, sitting at a sporting event, listening to music, sipping a Starbucks, or traveling will all be God-thoughts. **The idea for iListen came from watching "Don't Forget the Lyrics". Once God drops the idea, then our responsibility is to pray over the details, timing, and direction of that idea.


2. Creativity requires TIME. Once in a while, ideas will come quick and easy. Most of the time, you need to carve out "creative time". Start with the calendar. What holidays or events are coming up that you can theme around? Whether you're planning for a church, a class, family vacation, athletic team, or your meals for the week--you need time to think. Old school it with a yellow pad & pen if you have to!


3. Creativity requires KNOWLEDGE. You won't be creative if your head is in the sand--spiritually or pop-culturally. Plugging into books, articles, blogs :-) and podcasts will increase your knowledge and inspire you. Guess what--whatever you're idea is...somebody's probably already done it! So find out what they did and how they did it and then make it your own. Also, being up on pop-culture broadens your creative opportunities and jump starts interest in your activity or topic.


4. Creativity requires TEAMWORK. You can increase your creative potential by involving others in the process. You need outside input. Brainstorm and bounce your idea off others. You may find out your idea....stinks! Don't get defensive; you were just saved from a big embarrassment! Or someone may add that missing element that moves your idea from good to great! Insecure people will rarely ask for the input of others. They may tell you about their idea, but never ask for your opinion or help. Use teamwork. You'll get there faster, smarter, and better than you would by yourself.

In part 2, we'll talk specifically about God's Creative Formula for ministry leaders.

Recommended reading: The Creative Leader by Ed Young, Jr.; Can We Do That? by Andy Stanley and Ed Young, Jr.; Reaching Your Dreams by Tommy Barnett

You're A Winner! 4 Keys To Being An Encourager

As a pastor, I perform a number of cermonies like weddings, baby dedications, and funerals. I generally put a lot of effort into these occasions, as they are very important events in peoples' lives.

In fact, for me, preparing a funeral message can sometimes take just as much time as preparing for a Sunday message. I try to make each funeral special and memorable for the family and friends who will gather.

As I was preparing for one such funeral recently, I was reminded of what it means to be an encourager. Throughout my years here in Kansas City, Sister Elizabeth Pascuzzi had been an encourager of mine. She would agree in prayer with me about anything. She would often call me to tell me how much she "loved me", and that I was going to have a "super fantastic day". And every single time she would end the conversation with "Pastor Brian, don't forget.....you're a winner!"

You know, everyone can be an encourager, lifting people up and adding value to their lives. Here are 4 Keys To Being An Encourager:

1. Encouragers commit themselves to giving others encouragement daily: Roman philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca observed, "Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness." If you want to lift people up, do it daily.

2. Encouragers know the little difference that separates hurting and helping: The little things you do every day have a greater impact on others than you might think. You hold the power to make another person's life better or worse by the things you do today. Those closest to you—your spouse, children, or parents—are most affected by what you say and do. So are the people you come into contact with every day at work. Use that power wisely.

3. Encouragers initiate the positive in a negative environment: It's one thing to be positive in a positive or neutral environment. It's another to be an instrument of change in a negative environment. Yet that's what encouragers try to do. Sometimes that requires a kind word, other times it takes action, and occasionally it calls for creativity.

4. Encouragers understand life is not a dress rehearsal: Here's a quote I've always loved: "I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again." People who lift others don't wait until tomorrow or some other better day to help people. They act now!


Remember, YOU'RE A WINNER!



*Adaptations from 12/26/07 article by John C. Maxwell on businessweek.com. Read the entire article here.

Idol Worship

Did you catch the Top 8 American Idols performing the worship song "Shout to the Lord"? They actually sang it twice: Wed. night and again Thurs. night. I couldn't believe my ears. I kept thinking, "what is Simon thinking right now?" Better yet, "what is Darlene Zschech thinking right now?"

I have to tell you that it was really good. I felt something. Couldn't tell for sure if it was the anointing I sensed, or if it was just a previously implanted reaction to a worship song that I love and has meaning to me. Make any sense?

Question: Does God actually anoint (i.e. reveal His presence) in situations like that? Jim Cymbala, pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle, had a recent quote in which he said, "God doesn't anoint songs. He anoints the people who sing the songs." The context of his remarks were surrounding the process by which they select their choir members, and the standards they hold them to. Okay, I agree with this. I mean, come on, if Madonna was singing Shout to the Lord....

But, I have read/heard that a few of the Idols (Brooke, David A., Kristy) have some Christian influences in their lives. Who knows how they really live, but if it's true they are Christians, then "when 2 or 3 are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them." That's the presence of God!

I'm no theologian by far, but I think the key here is "gather in my name" or "because of me". I'm pretty sure that soundstage full of Hollywood people weren't there in Jesus' name. On the other hand, don't we serve an awesome and fearless God bold enough to declare Himself among the unbelieving multitude?

Enough debate. I know one thing: one day, every knee will bow.

I was going to post the video for you, but I noticed our friend Jason Allen of LifeConnection Church already did. So click here to watch the performance. Enjoy and decide for yourself.

Top 5 List: Royals Opening Day '08

Our family got a chance to attend the Royals Opening Day game vs. the Yankees on Tuesday. The 4 of us had never been to an opening day together, so it was a family first.

Thanks to our good friend Mike Miller for getting the tickets. Mike, I don't know how you do it.....

Here's my Opening Day Top 5 List :

5. A-Rod struck out 4 times going 0-4. He may not do that again the entire season.

4. The smell of dogs on the grill. Really, what's better than the smell at the ol' ballpark.

3. Joe's amazing "Dad, I got another baseball!" streak is alive in '08. He somehow manages to get the players and/or coaches to throw him at least one ball every game. It's truly unbelievable. We think it started in '06. He got one on Opening Day from the Yankees' Melky Cabrera. Take him to a game; he'll get you a baseball and maybe an autograph!

2. The new Crown Vision (minus the crown) video board is gi-normous. You just keep staring at the High Def. screen. Lots of new stats too, like OPS. We had to come home and look that one up. Anybody know what it is without looking it up? Don't cheat.

1. Of course, spending time with family & friends watching a Royals victory!

KU-phoria!!!!

Rock Chalk, Baby!

Effort Is A Skill

During the week of endless media analysis leading up to the Final Four, I heard a commentator talking about Tyler Hansbrough from the University of North Carolina.

He was quoting several NBA scouts who said that Tyler had "zero" pro skills. The thought among some scouts is "great college player/limited potential as a pro".

Seriously, this is a 1st Team All-American & College Player of the Year they are talking about. No pro skills???

But then the commentator made a great point. He said, "the scouts are overlooking the most important skill: Effort. EFFORT IS A SKILL!"

It reminded me of when Brian and I were starting out in full time ministry. Trust me when I say, we had zero skills. We did not grow up in church, we weren't pastor's kids, we weren't even deacons' kids :) The first youth camp we ever attended was as youth pastors (not good).

But there is one thing that helped us succeed: EFFORT. We didn't know what we were doing, but we sure worked hard at it!

2 Corinthians 12:9 talks about how God makes up the difference when we lack "talent skills". The apostle Paul certainly didn't lack effort, but God decided to teach him humility anyway.

Do you feel like you're not talented enough to accomplish what you've been called to do? You're not. That's how God wants it.

OUR EFFORT + GOD'S GRACE = MAD SKILLZ

A Mom's Prayer Rhythm

I try to pray for my family every day. As a current stay-at-home Mom, my time with God takes place in the mornings, after everyone heads out the door. I'll catch up on articles, emails, books, devotionals, etc. And I'll pray over Brian and the kids. I am blessed to be able to have time to do these things, as I know many women work, which makes finding quiet time very challenging.

I'll be honest, I'm not a big, long prayer person. Even though I'm a pastor's wife, I don't want to come off as some major prayer warrior or something, because I'm not. I'm getting better, but I usually on average spend about 15-20 minutes total in just prayer. And I'm often guilty of being really burdened for the "hot topic" in our lives, and solely focusing on that.

My "prayer rhythm" can include praying in the shower, car (w/o kids!), as I'm doing housework, cruising the grocery store, or while I'm cooking. It's rarely the stereotypical sitting on the couch or bed with my Bible open and eyes shut :-)

I have found that if I am not "filled up" with God's Word and through prayer, then I will have little that my family or church can "drink" from. I can't afford to be a dry well. In fact, if I'm not filled up, I may actually drain them! God does speak truth to me, and when He does I try to really soak it up and/or write it down. If He gives me a word of encouragement for someone else, I try to call, email, or text them.

Here's my typical prayers over our family:

Braeden (5)- God's favor, protection, health, rest, patience, ability to learn, be *nice*, don't let him run away

Joe (12) - most of the above + desire for the things of God, the right friendships, the right attitude & actions, ability to focus, his future life, his future wife

Brian- wisdom, leadership, direction, courage, health, rest, creativity, kindness & patience, ability to focus & prioritize, God's favor & blessing. I pray every day for God to send & surround Brian with encouraging people that appreciate him. The ministry can be so negative and he needs people that raise him up, not drain the life out of him. I pray that his time to pray, read the Word, & study for messages be somehow multiplied. A church can only rise to the level of the leader; so the leader must be constantly growing.

Do you have a Prayer Rhythm in your life?

Above: The objects of most of my prayers on vacation in Orlando

7 Characteristics of Chronic Cancelers

Do you know people who cancel almost everything? They have the best of intentions, but something always gets in the way. Let me introduce you to...The Chronic Cancelers.

7 Characteristics of Chronic Cancelers:

1. Unreliable. Chronic cancelers are unreliable and undependable because they always find a reason not to show up. They are good people, but they frequently let you down and put you in a bind.


2. Unorganized. Chronic cancelers don't manage their schedule well. Do they even look at their schedule?? They overlook & overbook. They have to cancel on you because they overlooked a previous commitment. Or they've booked their week so full that now they're too tired to fulfill their next commitment.


3. Unprioritized. Chronic cancelers will cancel on you if something or someone better comes up.


4. Unhealthy. Is it me, or do chronic cancelers seem to be sick ALL THE TIME? I think they're really just tired from all the commitments they make and can't fulfill.


5. Undetectable. At first, chronic cancelers are difficult to identify. They appear to have it going on. They look put together and say all the right things, and so you are tempted to connect with them. It won't take long for you to find out the level of their integrity.


6. Unprepared. Chronic cancelers are forced to cancel certain obligations because they are just not ready. They have procrastinated themselves into a dilemma: Be embarrassed or cancel. It's easier for them to make up an excuse and cancel rather than expose their own unpreparedness.


7. Unmotivated. Chronic cancelers are usually LAZY. They don't want to have to arrive early or stay late. They don't want to have to prepare. They are not motivated towards achievement but rather are satisfied to just...be. "Ahhh...let's just cancel it."

Chronic Cancelers are mysterious and frustrating. They never realize the possibilities God has placed before them. Everyone else can see their potential but them.

Psalm 112 describes people who worship God and gladly obey His teachings as "dependable and not afraid, and they will live to see their enemies defeated."

Hey, everybody cancels once in a while. We've all done it. Things happen. It's ok to cancel and/or re-schedule! But we must guard ourselves against being known as Chronic Cancelers.

Closing The Door on Negativity

Do your negatives always seem to counteract your positives? Try hooking up jumper cables to the wrong positive/negative terminals (actually, don't try it--just trust me!). The result is not good. I used this illustration of jumper cables in today's message which was part 2 of "The Door" series.

In order to close the door on negativity and walk through the door of positive living, we must "hook up" to the right influences, relationships, and attitudes:

• Eliminate negative influences such as your environment, what you listen to or what you watch.
• Hang out with Joshua and Caleb types: "no fear/we can do it" type of people. Eliminate relationships that drain you dry. Minimize time spent in neutral relationships. Maximize relationships that replenish, encourage, and stretch you.
• Change your attitude by hooking up to God's word and being in His presence.

Girls Night Out- BD's

Hey! We had an awesome time at our recent Girls Night Out at BD's Mongolian BBQ. I really enjoyed hanging out with everyone. If you missed it, look for another Girls Night Out sometime this summer. Here's some pics:

Easter Services

We had great Easter services here at Englewood on Sunday. Here are some highlights:

• Many salvations in both services (thank you prayer partners, nursery volunteers, Kids Church team, greeters, etc.)


• The stage, lighting, sound, etc. looked awesome


• The worship team & band looked great and did a tremendous job


• Thank you to Debbie Wallen and everyone who helped with stage/sermon series props


• Fantastic job by Pastor Ryan Elrod, Jake Ganote, and everyone who helped with the mini-drama/video we did at the conclusion of the services. About a month ago, I asked Pastor Ryan to find us a song that talked about "the door" or "the open door". He couldn't find one....so he wrote one! It was perfect and exactly what I was looking for.


• Kicked off "The Door" sermon series and I felt like it went well.


• Both Eastpoint Family Church and Turning Point Church had great Easter services and Egg Hunts! God was moving all over KC.


• On Saturday, Braeden & I checked out a city-wide egg hunt called Easter in Independence put on by a new friend of mine, Jason Allen, with LifeConnection Church. They are a brand new church (less than 2 months) that meets at Bingham Middle School. Read here about how they did it with 20,000 eggs!

Pray for me this week as I speak Wednesday night at New Life Church in Oak Grove (Pastor Claude Cowan speaks at Englewood Wed. night), meet with our board of directors Thursday night, study for part 2 of "The Door" series, and go to my son Joe's first baseball tournament for his new team this weekend. I'm also looking forward to working at our Dream Center Sunday afternoon and speaking at Eastpoint Family Church Sunday evening. And I'll be rooting the 'Hawks on in the NCAA tournament.

UnChristian

I have been reading through a book for a while entitled UnChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons. They have done some incredible research about "what a new generation really thinks about Christianity."

This new generation views the church as hypocritical, too focused on converts, anti-homosexual, sheltered, too political and judgmental. They see us as unrelevent and unable to tackle the complex issues of life that they are dealing with each day.

They make another telling observation! There is hostility and tension that surrounds the Church today. The hostility comes from two sources: Outside & Inside.

Outside: To reach this current generation that sees 90% of those who graduate from our evangelical youth groups and go to college never go back to church, we will expereince tension in trying to give them the life changing message of the Gospel. Their perceptions are so strong, they are hard to overcome. The unchurched, de-churched, and unbelievers can even become "hostile" to Chrsitianity. However, we know that "where sin abounds, grace does that much more abound."

Inside: As church leaders attempt to reach the millions of Americans that do not have a vibrant on-going relationship with God in new and creative ways, current church attenders don't always embrace the method or programming required to successfully reach out to this new generation. They become "hostile" towards leadership, longing for church "the way it used to be". They resent the focus on new ways.

The book states: "You can deny the hostility, you can refute its causes, you can harass those Christians who are trying their best to represent Jesus in a completely new context, or you can deal with the increasing hostility of outsiders in ways that honor God. Jesus pioneered this approach. He listened to the Holy Spirit so He could point people to His Father. He engaged His culture and its people with respect and love. He was in but not of this world."

Amazing. Jesus dealt with hostility from both sides too! From the religious (Pharisees) and non-religious.

What do you think?

Hillary Believes In The Resurrection!

No, really.

As we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday, I found an interesting (and little publicized) New York Times article on the religious "outlook" of Hillary Clinton. Politics aside, this article is very interesting. You'll see that although she does in fact believe Jesus historically rose from the dead, she is not so sure He is the only way to salvation. You can read the entire article here if you want.

Here's the highlights from the July '07 interview by Michaeal Luo:

• Hillary said, “I believe in the father, son, and Holy Spirit, and I have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit on many occasions in my years on this earth.”


• Luo then asked, “Can I ask you theologically, do you believe that the resurrection of Jesus actually happened, that it actually historically did happen?”
  Clinton replied, “Yes, I do.”


• Luo: And, do you believe on the salvation issue – and this is controversial too – that belief in Christ is needed for going to heaven?
  Clinton: "That one I’m a little more open to. I think that it is, as we understand our relationship to God as Christians, it is how we see our way forward, and it is the way. But, ever since I was a little girl, I’ve asked every Sunday school teacher I’ve ever had, I asked every theologian I’ve ever talked with, whether that meant that there was no salvation, there was no heaven for people who did not accept Christ. And, you’re well aware that there are a lot of answers to that. There are people who are totally rooted in the fact that, no, that’s why there are missionaries, that’s why you have to try to convert. And, then there are a lot of other people who are deeply faithful and deeply Christ-centered who say, that’s how we understand it and who are we to read God’s mind about such a weighty decision as that. "


• Luo: And your attitude toward the Bible about how literally people should take it. ...
  Clinton: "I think the whole Bible is real. The whole Bible gives you a glimpse of God and God’s desire for a personal relationship, but we can’t possibly understand every way God is communicating with us. I’ve always felt that people who try to shoehorn in their cultural and social understandings of the time into the Bible might be actually missing the larger point that we’re supposed to take from the Bible. "


• Hillary on prayer: “I’ve always responded that I was fortunate enough to be raised to understand the power and purpose of prayer...But had I not been, probably one week in the White House would have turned me into one… It’s wonderful to know that the sustaining power of prayer is there for so many of us.”


• Clinton said in the November speech one of her favorite passages of the Bible is the book of James’ admonition that “faith without works is dead.”
  “But I have concluded that works without faith is just too hard,” she said. “It cannot be sustained over one’s life or the generations. And it’s important for us to recognize how, here in what you are doing, faith and works comes together.”

What do you think?? Are these just "political" answers or do you think she truly has a form of faith? How can she proclaim that the whole Bible is "real" and condone gay marriage and abortion? - JR

Runaway Bear

Well, our youngest- Braeden "Bear" Ross, checked himself out of his suite at the Ross Hotel early Tuesday morning. He got dressed (shorts, Pirates of Caribbean tee, Heely's) and left between 7:00 - 7:30am.

He did not think anyone was home (Dad & brother were home but crashed in the basement after a late night of Guitar Hero; Mom was downtown KC at an awards breakfast). So, he went door to door searching for someone to come babysit him.

Above: the perpetrator was seen at IHOP earlier in the week eating "Who Cakes" w/green eggs & ham

He came back safe and sound, but didn't tell us this story until about 9:00pm while he was taking his bath. My freak out: You did Whaaaaaattt??????!!!!!!!! BRIANNNNNN!!!!! I need some Tums.

We figured this might happen with him; but not until his teens. God help us.

Deal or No Deal Stewardship Video

Here's a simple little video Brian did during the Deal or No Deal series to help illustrate financial stewardship:



Click below for more info on this sermon series:

Deal or No Deal- part 1
Deal or No Deal 100% tithers- part 2
Deal or No Deal: The Real Deal- illustrated message

Deal or No Deal: The Real Deal

This past Sunday we had two great services that concluded our Deal or No Deal Series with an illustrated message entitled "Deal or No Deal: The Real Deal." Our participants did a great job along with the media team organizing the sound, lighting, and music. Many people accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior!

The message centered around Proverbs 14:12, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." We are all following a path. Most of us are following our own path and making our own decisions. The problem is that some of us do O.K. making our own decisions. However, the verse says, "in the END it leads to death."

We don't always know how things are going to play out, but trusting in the One who knows the end from the beginning is the only way to live life. That's what the familiar passage in Proverbs 3:5,6 tells us: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct you path."

God's path is the only walkway to travel that allows for satisfaction and fulfillment. That's the Real Deal!

Last week we challenged everyone in our church to become tithers, giving 10% of their income back to the Lord. Our giving totals were up again this week, so I am expecting to start hearing some awesome testimonies very soon!

You Give Love A Bad Name

They're out there people. Check out this rant by Pastor Steven Anderson of Faithful Word Baptist Church in Tempe, Arizona:

BTW, the church he refers to is NewSpring Church in Anderson, SC; pastor Perry Noble. Here is a link to their "Crank it Up" series.

New Idol Rankings

Here are my new rankings after this week's performances:

1. David Cook - "Eleanor Rigby/All The Lonely People"
2. David Archuleta- he forgot the words!

1. Brooke White- "Let It Be"
2. Carly Smithson- didn't like the outfit

Men's Conference with Fred Stoeker

As a guy, I love sports. And this weekend starts the NCAA March Madness Mayhem with the conference championships beginning. But what could be more important than learning how to be the champion God has intended you to be? Let me encourage you to be at the "every man's weekend" men's conference on Friday and Saturday at Evangel Temple here in Kansas City.

Guest speaker is Fred Stoeker, best-selling author of Every Man's Battle.

Nothing could be more important than learning to be the man God has intended you to be. Hope to see you there!

Download the information & registration forms here.

Contact me if you have any questions.

What The Church Can Learn From Brett Favre

Pastor Mark O. Wilson of Hayward, Wisconsin had these observations on The Church and Brett Favre:

1) He Showed up to Play Every Sunday
Regardless of what was happening in his life (i.e. his father's death and his wife's cancer), he still found a way to get to the game on time.

2) He Played Through the Hurts
I've watched just about every Packer game since Favre's debut. I've seen him clobbered, hammered, hamstrung, smashed, and boggled. Yet, Brett kept getting back on his feet again. Remember the year when he played half a season with a broken thumb? Somehow, the desire for victory was far greater than the physical pain.

3) He Took Risks and Made Plenty of Mistakes
Not only does he hold the career touchdown record, he holds the interception record as well. You can't win big by playing it safe. Consider the turtle, who makes no progress until he sticks his neck out. Brett stuck his neck out all the time. On countless occasions, I've seen him do something crazy, and yelled, "NO!! NO!! DON'T DO THAT!!" But then, it's the crazy passes, completed as touchdowns which will go down in history as the greatest and most memorable.

4) After He Blew It, He Shook it Off
Nothing could rattle his confidence. On the next set of downs after an interception, he'd throw deep (and crazy) again. Favre didn't allow failure to be final and always believed that setbacks are supposed to be followed by come-backs. He never blamed others for his mistakes, and always took responsibility for losses on the field.

5) He Inspired the Team
Brett always had a good word of encouragement for the younger guys around him. I remember when Ryan Longwell, as a rookie kicker, muffed an easy field goal against the Eagles, and lost the game. The crowd booed. Favre went over to his dejected teammate and said, "Hey, don't worry about it. It's not your fault. We lost this thing together."

6) He Kept Smiling
The thing I appreciated most about Brett Favre was his enthusiasm and love for football. Most of the time, he really enjoyed himself and was glad to be there (There were a few exceptions, such as the ice bowl in Chicago, but normally, he'd grin for at least three quarters, anyhow!) Brett's lighthearted spirit was contagious. Win or lose, it was still a good game.

7) He Didn't Quit Until the Clock Ran Out
Many players give up when the tide turns against them, but not Brett Favre! He played his heart out every second of every down in the game. Perhaps that's why he led his team to so many last second comeback victories.

Weekend Update

Here's an update on how things went this weekend, 3/7-3-9:

• Attended ECA Jr. High Sports Banquet on Friday night (above). It was good to be there as all the kids were honored with certificates and the coaches summarized their seasons. One thing I picked up on was how much the coaches really put a lot of time into their remarks about each student. We're trying to bank all these memories. I'm glad we went as a family, as these opportunities are quickly slipping away...


• Saturday morning was our third edition of All Pro Dad. I think we had 33 or so, which is great. I love seeing Dads with their kids having breakfast, interacting with others, and growing together. It's only 1 hour, but I enjoy it. We talked about being an A.C.E.-- Attitude, Character, Enthusiasm.


• KU rips A & M; Duke gets beat by UNC.


• Met the crew at Starbucks on Sunday morning; I've been enjoying these quick get togethers for over 2 years now!


• Deal or No Deal 100% tithing challenge was Sunday morning. I'm happy to report that we about doubled our average weekly giving. That's a start! Let's keep it going and see what God will do. I know many of you stepped out in faith, but many more need to get "All In". I'm praying God's blessing and guidance over both groups. I'm also praying God moves upon the hearts of those who give a little but don't tithe. Here's the committment card we used.


• Had lunch with Jason, Jenny, & Joslyn Cobb at Chuck E. Cheese. It was crowded--lots of birthday parties, but we had a great time. Braeden proudly claims Joslyn as one of his "girlfriends"! Jason is a fireman and we talked about a BACKDRAFT sermon illustration that we'd like to do soon.


• Oprah's Big Give: Why did that stupid guy give the car to the restaurant manager??? That is one of the dumbest moves I've ever seen. He deserved to be voted off.

Deal or No Deal- 100% Tithers

Last Sunday, as part of our series on stewardship, I announced a challenge to our church. That on Sunday, March 9, everyone would be a tither. I am asking that everyone tithe 10% of their income.

Research shows that only between 3-5% of American churchgoers tithe 10% as the Bible instructs us to. Read Malachi 3:8-12. No wonder many of our churches struggle and creep along embarrassingly slow and underfunded. This is not God's plan. We have so many dreams, goals, and needs both in our personal lives and in our church, that go unfulfilled due to lack of obedience in the area of finances.

So this Sunday, why don't you become a tither? Take God's Deal. Test Him and see. Bring yourself and your family under the blessing of God through obedience to His word.

Make it Stop

Snowing on March 7. I'm sick of winter.

5 Ways To Succeed At Being Busy

Yesterday I gave you a peek at our busy week, and so today I want to share with you some ways to get through your extra busy times. I want to say, first of all, that we don't have it all together as a family. Sometimes we want to kill each other! And we may run our family different than you run yours. Some families have a natural "meter" or "tempo" that is faster or slower than others. God has designed us all differently.

Truth is, most families are very active these days. And although the following concepts are nothing new, here are some ideas to help you succeed at being busy:

1. Be Organized. This not only includes coordinating schedules, but meals. Take a look at the week in advance and plan it out. Realize your steps are directed by the Lord. Also, when adding something else to your busy calendar, don't just look for an open date and fill it. Look at the week before and the week after. If it's the only open date then don't fill it. Leave it open for some down time. Use Peripheral Calendar Vision! We have learned this the hard way.


2. Communicate. This goes for spouses and older kids. The family schedule needs to be communicated to avoid overlaps & mishaps. When our 12-year old, Joe, is aware of our family schedule, he is less likely to nag us about going places or doing certain things. We try to be flexible, but he knows there are just certain commitments that are non-negotiables. And by the way, we are always emphasizing to him that he is not yet in charge of his own life---his Dad & Mom are!! Check out Kid CEO, by Ed Young.


3. Prioritize. Church and homework are priorities with us. We're far from perfect, but we do try to keep the main thing, the main thing. And the main thing is serving God; not your schedule- Matt. 6:33. On the flip side, don't get caught in the trap of legalism and think that your priorities will never be trumped. As pastors, sometimes our "priority" activities or family time gets trumped by other things that require attention such as an important phone call, hospital visit, or emergency meeting. As parents, we have to carefully balance priorities vs. activities, without making our kids feel constantly restricted. We try to be real and flexible. If you have truly emphasized your priorities, your regular schedule will always bounce back to them.


4. Take Time for God. When you have a stressful or busy week, it's good to spend extra time praying for your family's focus, strength, and unity. Also, listen to worship music when you're getting ready in the mornings or driving in the car. Even just 5 minutes in the presence of God can bring your spirit rest and peace. Read Matthew 11:29.


5. Be Peaceful. Did you know, you can still be really busy but carry a peaceful spirit? As spouses, if we are not at peace with each other, especially during the ultra-busy times, then it's going to be chaos for the family. Also, you must stay true to your "family meter" to preserve peace. What's right for some families may not be right for yours. If a full schedule is approached through an attitude of peace, then we are able to accomplish what we needed to accomplish...minus the ulcer! 2 Timothy 2:23-24 says, "...as servants of the Lord we must not be quarrelsome, but mild-tempered, preserving the bond of peace."

Remember, your "mega-busyness" should be relatively temporary or seasonal. If your schedule is running you, instead of you running your schedule, then it may be time to re-evaluate certain activities and priorities. I didn't list this but...learn to Enjoy Your Schedule. Embrace every meeting or activity as an opportunity and enjoy your life. God will help us with being busy as long as we seek Him first!

Quit complaining about being busy and start succeeding at being busy!

A Peek At Our Week

We had a cra-zazy busy stretch recently, how about you? Not to bore you, but I thought I would give you a peek at our family life the past week or so:

Monday, Feb. 25- dinner & homework after school; 8:30pm - Joe's Jr. High Boys Basketball Game at Pembroke Hill School down by the plaza. Brian and Kevin filled in as coaches, because our head coach had to work. Our guys played great and advanced to the semi-finals, winning 44-28.

Tues.- dinner & homework after school; 5:30-7:00pm- Joe's baseball practice in L.S.

Wed.- (no homework day a.k.a. "TGIW") Baseball practice after school. Met for quick family dinner at Red Robin; Church - Brian had an AWESOME message on "Dealing With Unforgiveness". Order it.

Thursday- Jr. High Boys BB practice after school; 5:30pm- Brian's bored, I mean board mtg. :) dinner & homework at home

Friday- 4:00-5pm -Hitting league. 7:00-8:30pm-Baseball team parents mtg & Joe's baseball practice. We had dinner with some friends in between. Joe had a baseball teammate spend the night.

Saturday - 7:00-8:30am - Joe's baseball team conditioning workout with former Royals player, Les Norman, in Lee's Summit. 10:00am-12:00pm Jr. High Boys BB practice. Joe went to the KC Brigade home opener. Brian studied at the church. Watched KU whup K-State.

Sun.- Church!

Monday, Mar. 3- dinner & homework after school; Jr. High Boys BB semi-final game at 8:00pm at Pembroke Hill. Skipped baseball practice. We lost :(

Okay. Now, this is REALLY busy, even for us. The overlapping sports really bog you down. But we know it's not permanent. Our weekly schedule will lighten up a bit soon.

Do you ever have weeks like this? I'm sure you do. All the non-sports people reading this are probably going, "just drop the sports-it's too much!" Every family has different interests and a different "family tempo". We like sports and believe in the positive impact.

I share this with you so you can see we are a normal family, with normal struggles & challenges. We are not perfect parents or perfect spouses. Our kids are not perfect. Our calendar is not perfect. But we enjoy life and navigate it by being Christ-centered. That is our strength, foundation, and motivation.

Tomorrow I'll talk about "5 Ways To Succeed At Being Busy".

American Idol...Who Ya Got?

Well, I admit it. I do enjoy watching American Idol. From the ratings, I guess I'm not alone. Our DVR is set to record it, so I ususally end up watching it around 11pm. It's still cheesy even that late. At least I can fast forward the commercials.

My favorites so far are Mr. All-American Happy Boy, David Archuleta (above) for the guys and rocker Carly Smithson (below) for the girls. What do you think?

Top 10 Leadership Mistakes- by Tony Morgan

Tony Morgan recently had this to say on leadership. :

1. Hiring Too Fast. Firing Too Slow. Every minute I delay in firing, I take away opportunity for God to work in that person's life.


2. Putting Projects before the People. Embrace the tension and find the balance between leadership and shepherding.


3. Trying to Fix the Problem Rather than the Process. Ninety percent of the time it isn't a people-problem. It is a process-problem.


4. Delegating Tasks Instead of Responsibility. It is hard to delegate, because many times I (wrongly) think I'm the only one who can do it right.


5. Assuming it is Always Black and White. Following rules is a lot easier than trying to deal with relationships.


6. Not Following my Gut. When we stop listening to God, he stops talking to us (consider the 13-year gap when God stopped talking to Abraham).


7. Dwelling on the Worst-Case Scenario. Worry might not be your issue, but everyone has an issue that can derail them.


8. Waiting Until There's a Problem to Provide Feedback. I have to discipline myself to encourage my team.


9. Staying Busy. It is a lie, but I tend to think if I'm staying busy, I'm adding value to my organization.


10. Spending Too Much Time on the Details Rather than the Dreams.

Great leadership food for thought!