ECA Lasting Legacy

School ribbon cutting ceremony: August, 1975

Englewood Christian School K-12 (now Academy) was started by Englewood Assembly of God Church in 1975 to meet a community need for private Christian education. Over the past 33 years, thousands of students, families, teachers & employees have been blessed by the unique family environment that is Englewood.

Like many other private schools in the KC metro area, as well as across the country, ECA always struggled to make ends meet financially. It is truly a miracle when you stop to think that most private schools are backed up by foundations, associations, denominations, dioceses, etc. The only backup for ECA was Englewood Assembly church via the Lord! God provided year after year. But as economics of western Independence began to shift, ECA began experiencing a steady decline in enrollment. The financial losses that were once manageable, were becoming insurmountable.

We do, however, serve a God of the impossible, and so we prayed and waited for Him to provide. It did not come. Was this a lack of faith? I don't think so. Then was it God's will for ECA? Honestly, we really didn't want to hear the answer to that question for a long time. You see, our God is a God of the impossible, but He will never contradict His own will and plan for our lives just to do the impossible. This is a miserable "spot" we find ourselves in: caught between the faith factor and God simply steering things in another direction.

Through many agonizing months, many prayers for direction, many times of questioning "why us? why now?", the decision was made that ECA could no longer continue. Our faith focus switched from "give us faith for provision" to "give us enough faith to swallow your will, God."

You see, unless you've been a part of ECA, you will never truly understand the extreme difficulty of closing this school. Corporate business types would have no trouble looking at a balance sheet and pulling the plug. It was a financial dog. But you have to look at the kids. Rich kids, poor kids, good kids, kids that needed positive influences and love, smart kids, normal kids, hurting kids, happy kids, Christian kids, kids that have never heard about Jesus, and so on. They all went through our doors. The stories are endless. They are the Lasting Legacy.

l/r: Pastor Brian Ross, Kendra Moreland (7-12 Principal), Debbie Evans (Elem. Principal)

And that is where we stand today. Having wrapped up this 33rd and final school year, we pray that everyone will have faith to walk in God's will for their lives. Not looking back, but moving forward, thanking God we had a part in a lasting legacy.

**We held a Tribute Service on Wed., May 21, 2008 to honor 33 years of Englewood Christian School/Academy (1975-2008). Read the Independence Examiner's article here. Order the DVD here.

Watch the tribute videos and slideshows here.

ECA Faculty/Staff Picnic

2007-08 ECA Faculty and Staff

As kind of a going away party, we held a big picnic for all of our school faculty/staff and their families. The weather was perfect. Everybody had a great time eating, talking the past, talking the future, getting fake tattoos--this is what us old people do when we are feeling rebellious :-), and watching the kids play. Brian grilled hot dogs, brats, & burgers and then handed out final paychecks and a special gift. Awesome group of people. True Heroes.

We concluded with a really nice time of prayer over those still seeking a job and/or direction for the future. I'm kinda thinking this would be great staff "reunion" sort of thing we should try to do again sometime.

Click here for the faculty/staff slide show we showed at the ECA Tribute Service on 5/21/08.

Read more about the ECA Lasting Legacy here.

"You're Gonna Miss This" - ECA Tribute Videos

Here's 4 media pieces we ran at the 5/21/08 Tribute Service to Englewood Christian School/Academy. Read more about ECA's Lasting Legacy here.

The final two ran back to back and our band did the final song live to the 2nd video, re-writing/customizing the bridge. The live version of "You're Gonna Miss This", as well as all 4 media pieces, is available on the ECA Tribute DVD.

"Best Memories" Alumni video :



ECA 2007-08 Faculty/Staff Slideshow. "Hero" by Mariah Carey:



Student Spotlight-"What Will You Miss The Most?" :



ECA Tribute Slideshow- "You're Gonna Miss This" by Trace Adkins:

Memorial Day Catch-up

After an extremely busy week last week, filled with graduations, goodbyes, special services, awards night, etc., we spent Memorial Day weekend catching up. We fired up the grill, did a little swimming, hung out with friends, went to a movie (Indiana Jones), did a little cleaning, and had a great Sunday morning at church. Friday was also the last day of school and we continued a tradition we started several years ago of taking the kids to Cool Crest. They played the "Knights" course, appropriately.

Jennifer and I hope that all of you had a great Memorial Day, and enjoyed your weekend. Don't forget to remember all of the freedoms and privileges we have in this country. Also remember to pray for those who preserve those liberties, our armed service men and women. No matter where you stand on the war, everyone can agree to support those whom we will probably never meet, but protect us. It's a humbling thought.

5/22/08 Ross family at ECA Awards Night

3 Ways To Maintain a Godly Attitude

On Sunday we took a look at the life of Esther. She possessed many characteristics we must develop in our lives, including honor and attitude.

Honor is a great quality from Esther's life. The biblical definition of honor is to glorify, magnify or exalt. When I think of those terms, my mind immediately thinks about worship. It should be the heart of every believer to glorify, magnify and exalt Jesus Christ our Lord. In order to do this "in spirit and in truth," we have to approach Him with the right attitude.

To maintain a Godly attitude you must...

1. Learn how to handle your feelings

2. Learn how to handle your thinking-

3. Learn how to handle yourself-

If you present yourself with the right attitude to others, you will gain friends, favor and influence. Practice the characteristic of honoring others in your life today.

ECA Graduation

The final graduating class of Englewood Christian Academy walked the line Monday night. Everything ran very smoothly. There was a KSHB-41 camera crew there that shot some nice footage for the news. I thought it was great combination of a "normal" graduation ceremony for our seniors with just the right amount of "school closing/final year, etc." comments.

Yes, it's impossible to ignore that this is the final graduating class, but we still wanted to celebrate the seniors appropriately. Job well done to our Jr/Sr High School Principal, Kendra Moreland, and everyone else who made it happen.

Click here to see a great news piece that KMBC-9 aired today also.

Joyce Meyer in Kansas City

Well we had a busload from our attend the Joyce Meyer Conference at the Sprint Center this weekend. She made her first appearance in Kansas City in 15 years. Why no love for KC?? Is it the close proximity to her annual Women's Convention in St. Louis? I don't know, but with the price of gas, I'm just thankful it was local. I hope it was successful for them and they come back.

Joyce spoke on personal integrity both Thursday and Friday evenings. Worship was led by Delirious?. This conference came at a busy time for most of us. But I really enjoyed the "break" from normal busy-ness. The weather was fantastic and I just liked hanging out with friends. Refreshing and pressure free.

Here are some of my take-aways:

• Joyce: "We have the music loud to attract the young people."
• Joyce: "No matter what you've done wrong, it's not too much for God to fix it."
• I'm still hummin' "Rain Down" and "Majesty" by Delirious?
• Joyce: "Excellence is not about being perfect...excellence is doing the best with what you have."
• I love the padded seats at Sprint Center. And QuikTrip Freezonis.
• 240 people gave their hearts to Christ on Thursday night alone!
• I sometimes open my eyes during worship just to watch the ladies from our church worship God. This makes me happy :-)
• It's good to get out of your normal church setting and routine once in a while. I think it can give you a fresh perspective and clarity to hear from God.

The Long Goodbye

It's been a long, difficult, challenging, period of time since we announced that our school, Englewood Christian Academy, would be closing at the end of the school year. For many, it is the only school they have ever known, including my own children. My heart breaks for all of our families that are affected by this closure, but for the Junior Class it has been especially hard. They must now transfer for their senior year.

For me, I have become very emotional, mostly in private (in fact, crying right now....everybody say "awwww"). If you know me, this is very uncharacteristic. I have a lot of trouble sleeping. My spirit is in a state of unrest. My husband is not a very popular person in some circles due to this decision. Some who were once close supporters and encouragers have gone curiously.... silent. It hurts. It definitely hasn't been a perfect process, but I know he's tried to do it the right way (why would he try to do it the wrong way?).

The bottom line is everyone is frustrated and disappointed in their own way. And everyone deals with that frustration and disappointment in their own way. I would only encourage everybody to PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER. Don't go silent. Galatians 6:2 says to "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Philippians 2:1-2 says it best... "If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends."

For months we have known what is coming. The end of a ministry that touched thousands of lives for 33 years. The end of jobs. The end of daily relationships. The end of chapels. The end of excited lunchroom voices. The end of playground fun. The end of class trips, and so much more. It has indeed been The Long Goodbye.

Please join us for the ECA Tribute Service on Wednesday, May 21 @ 7pm at Englewood Ministries. We will be honoring 33 years of ministry with stories, testimonies, video presentations and more. A reception will follow in the gym. All current & former students and faculty in attendance will receive a special free gift. You won't want to miss it.

Diversity

At the conclusion of a recent leadership meeting I shared something that I feel God has placed in my heart concerning our church. The thought isn't fully developed within me, but it's diversity.

Diversity defined is:
1. the state or fact of being diverse; difference; unlikeness.
2. variety; multi-formity.
3. a point of difference.

There is more diversity in the church today than ever before. And this diversity must be acknowledged and openly talked about to keep unity within the body of Christ. The diversity is cultural, ethnic, political, spiritual, generational, economical, philosophical, educational, musical. I could go on.

We must determine if this diversity will be our strength, allowing us to touch the many different faces of our society. Or will we cower to our own preferences and make those who are different feel unwelcome in our places of worship. It's a great challenge to look beyond ourselves and comfort level and follow God into new places. It will take courage and selflessness.

How this turns out, only God knows. But one thing is sure, our diversity will either strengthen our efforts or divide us.

Love Your Mother

My Mother's Day message was pretty basic...Love Your Mother! We had great services and there seemed to be a little extra energy in the house. Dozens and dozens of roses in the foyer doesn't hurt.

We did video announcements for the first time and they were awesome. This is something we've been wanting to do forever and it really added to the worship service.

We spent the rest of Mother's Day at the Royals game. It was a little cold and windy, but at least the Royals won. I hope all of you had a great day too.

Wicked

Brian got away from the office, I got a sitter, and we went to see "Wicked The Musical" Thursday. Even had lunch at one of our favorite spots: Los Corrals (downtown 9th & Baltimore). Great afternoon! If you've never heard of Wicked, it's awesome. Here's a glimpse:

Swing Builder Saints

Since the first of the year, our family has been blessed to be a part of the Swing Builder Saints 12U AAA/AA baseball team. When our team from last year disbanded we weren't sure where our son, Joe, would end up. We prayed that God would open the right door for us. A couple of recommendations and tryouts later, and Joe became a Swing Builder Saint.

Being the baseball junkie family that we are, we are loving every practice, game, tournament, etc. We have great coaches who are wonderful teachers of the game and Joe has made a lot of new friends.

A former KC Royals player, Les Norman, owns and operates the Swing Builder Baseball Academy in Lee's Summit. Les is a great man with a great testimony and love for God.

Do you pray for your kids' coaches, activities, sponsors, etc.? We do. Yes, God even cares about who coaches your child! Pray over your children that the right opportunities and the right people would enter their lives. "Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track." (Msg. Psalm 3:6)

Down On The Farm

I spent yesterday morning with Braeden on his Pre-K field trip to Deanna Rose Children's Farm. His favorite thing was the playground (of course). His favorite animals were the chickens and the American bald eagle. The weather was mild and we had a great time. Our boys have brought us a lot of extra joy this year. Brian and I enjoy being very involved in their activities. It's been a rough year in ministry, to put it mildly. But our sons never knew it. Emotional protection is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.

Braeden's quotes of the day:

"It smells like poop here."

"When can we go to the playground?"

"That tickles!" (feeding the goats)

"Ooooh, Mom, there's a bobcat. Hey, that's my new school the Blackburn Bobcats."

"Mom, can we go to the playground?"

Here are some more pictures:

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.