Eastpoint 1st Sunday

The first Sunday services were held at Eastpoint Family Church on Sept. 23. There were 41 in attendance in the AM and 76 in the PM! The next few weeks are sort of a "soft opening" with the "Grand Opening" service to be held on Sunday, Oct. 7. Click here for the Eastpoint story.

Pastor Claude Cowan said that everything went great; the sick and needy were prayed for and many responded. Here is a picture of those in attendance: Keep Pastor Claude & Bonnie and Eastpoint in prayer as 1000 door hangers go out Sat. Sept. 29 inviting the community to the Grand Opening. If you would like to help, contact Pastor Claude: claude_cowan@sbcglobal.net

Why, God?

READ TIME: 60 SECONDS (it just looks long!)

Confession: I ask that question a lot! I like to have things figured out, but that's just not the way life unfolds most of the time.

As a pastor's wife, I get to rejoice in all the great things that go on at Englewood. I also hear the negative and feel the burden and pressures of my husband and our staff as they handle problems and issues. It's clear that we're not in control of the good or bad.

As I was thinking and praying today, I read about King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel chapter 4. Daniel had just interpreted some dreams for King Neb which basically said God was going to send the King to live outdoors with the wild animals for 7 years. Sounds like a Brad Oyler dream vacation :)

God was sending him away "...until you learn that the God that rules from heaven is in control."

After the 7 years, Scripture tells us that King Neb prayed to God and his mind was healed. You know, we can let our mind take our spirit into a scary place by constantly questioning God. We all do it, but we must be very careful. King Neb offered this praise to God after his time away, "...God controls the stars in the sky and everyone on this earth. When God does something, we cannot change it or even ask why." (Dan. 4:35b/CEV)

Seems like King Neb got humbled a little. Is it our arrogance that causes us to question? Maybe humility is the key to handling questionable things. Interestingly, God returned King Neb's kingdom to him and the Bible says he "had greater power than ever before."

The Tortoise and The Hare

You know the story. Hare brags. Tortoise challenges. Crowds gather. Hare becomes bored and distracted. Tortoise wins!

We had our annual business meeting last night and I shared a few thoughts about getting where we want to go and being what we want to be as a church. We have a great church, with a lot of great people, and we do a lot of things right. That's the easy part. The hard part is examining what's not so great about Englewood.

Exams (educational, spiritual, and esp. physical!) are no fun. Read this: This Church Is Not Perfect. Most pastors do not like admitting shortcomings about themselves or their churches. But, in order to be what God has called us to be, we have to re-examine the way we do ministry both inside and outside our walls. This is necessary to moving forward.

Ahhh...moving forward. Is it me, or does it seem like some things just take a long time at Englewood? It's easy for me to get frustrated with myself, God, finances, people, facilities, etc. All of these things faced day after day can bog me down. I want things to happen yesterday. I encouraged those at the meeting to stick with us, keep pressing on, get in the game and make a difference in areas that need enhancing.

Remember a few weeks ago I preached a series of messages around finding your call and place. In that series, I said that many times the very thing God is calling us to starts when we become frustrated or burdened for an area or a group of people. Maybe what we are needing as a church to enable us to move forward is found in your area of "Holy Discontent."

A good friend sent me a great encouraging and wise e-mail relating to my frustrations. In summary, they said, "Pastor don't get frustrated. Direction is more important than speed." Whoa. That spoke to me. If we can just keep moving in the right direction, then we'll be in the right place when God's timing kicks in. We've got to reign in our frustrations from getting ahead of God.

It's the Tortoise and The Hare principle: "Don't brag about your lightning pace, for Slow and Steady won the race."

Pink Impact Video

As a church, we're just starting to get our feet wet with videos, etc. and our use of technology to enhance our ministries. We're not where we want to be (See: no website), but with the help of several talented individuals, we've come a long way! This is The Age of Technology. We will embrace it and use it for God's glory.

Click on the graphic above to see a little video we did for our upcoming "Pink Impact" Ladies Retreat. It got a lot of laughs on Sunday. By the way, there's still time to sign up--it's going to be great!

Crunch Time

Well, the new chairs are in. This is only good news if you are 5' tall or less. Or you sit in the balcony. If you were here Wednesday night for the Cowan appreciation service, then you know what I'm talking about.

But it's OK! It was a mistake and the installers will be back on Monday, Oct. 1 to re-install the chairs. We will, however, have to go through 2 Sundays with the short seats. By the way, they look and feel FANTASTIC. Sharp observers will notice that there are a few random rows and an entire section (far right, closest to the nurseries) that were installed at the proper measurements. Tall people are advised to arrive early the next 2 Sundays! :) Does anything ever turn out the way you planned? "Be anxious for nothing..."

Overhaulin

Today was an exciting day! I simply couldn't help myself. All day long I kept sticking my head in and out of the sanctuary to watch the progress. The installers arrived very early and got to work. They first lined the floor, and then placed the screws into the concrete to help anchor the chairs.

A few hours later, the arm rests were almost completely installed with a promise that the seat backs and bottoms will be done on Wednesday. I know this has been a long process, and maybe that 's helping add to the excitement. The sanctuary already looks great! I can't wait to see it finished.

Movie Review: Disney's "The Game Plan"

Earlier this week, the kids and I attended a free preview screening of the upcoming movie, Disney's The Game Plan. It's no secret---ever since 2004's The Passion of The Christ, Hollywood has made efforts to produce more PG family films.

Ironically, Passion was anything but a traditional family film. But film studios recognized a demand for movies that would appeal to conservative values, yet still entertain.

They want our money. We want a selection of movies without cursing, sex, murder, violence, etc. The Game Plan, starring The Rock, Kyra Sedgwick, and Madison Pettis from Disney Channel's "Cory In The House" is good! Squeaky clean, well-known stars, good family fun. It opens on 9/28. Here's the trailer:

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

Monday night Pastor Claude and I met with 32 people who wanted to know more about our new satellite church, Eastpoint Family Church (video). I couldn't help think of what a significant moment it was for all of us. Sometimes you don't always recognize a God-sized opportunity until later. But I sense God is up to something special at Eastpoint.

One of the really awesome things about a multi-site church is the strength it provides. Click here for an article on the strengths of multi-site. When a church grows, sometimes people don't feel needed or that their spiritual gifts aren't required. That's usually not the case, but that's their perception many times.

When we unselfishly encourage a part of our church to go contribute at an alternate location, it allows those people whose gifts have laid dormant to become re-activated in building God's kingdom. They begin to sense a new satisfaction and fulfillment through serving. Their vacancy also opens up similar doors at the "parent church."

Some wondered about allowing people, some who are leaders in ministry, to leave and serve at the new site. Although it's hard for my flesh to let go sometimes, it was never an issue with my spirit. It is as simple as the Law of Sowing and Reaping. Scripture is clear, "a man (church) reaps what he (they) sow." As we sow into another part of our community for the winning of souls, God promises to bless us abundantly. We become a Reproducing Church.

What are you sowing into the Kingdom? How are you using your gift, talents and strengths for building the people of God and for the saving of souls? Should you stay or should you go? Only God can answer that. Maybe you should take a moment now and ask Him how you can make a difference wherever he places you!

Want to learn more about the multi-site philosophy? Read a great article here on "5 Things Every Pastor Should Know About The Multi-Site Church".

Guy's Night at the "K"

Awesome time last night. 50 or so guys from Englewood and Turning Point invaded the Kauffman Stadium parking lot for a first ever "Tailgating with the Pastors" pre-game cookout followed by Royals vs. Yankees. Great turnout, great food, great weather, great community!

The 'dogs, brats and burgers were good, but seeing the guys connecting was the best. Loved seeing the multi-generations represented too! It's cool to do the "guy thing" with your sons & grandsons once in a while.

I enjoyed being able to get better aquainted with those I see regularly, but don't get to talk to at length. The only bummer of the night, Royals lost. What's new? At least we had fireworks!

Taking Time To Honor

Last night we took time to honor a group of young people for their achievements in Mpact Girls Clubs (formerly Missionettes) and Royal Rangers. I couldn't have been more proud of everyone involved!

The service began by recognizing six new Honor Stars: Hanna Jo Kimble, Angela Nigro, Ainsley Rice, Catherine Rose, Katherine Van Drie, and Caitlyn Wicks. Requirements were: complete 27 badges, complete 9 Honor Steps in the "The World of Truth," earn the 4-step badges of a STAR, read the New Testament, and pass a comprehensive exam.

Royal Rangers recognized three Silver Medal of Achievements: Drew Coletti, Michael Jones, and Matt Pace; and one Gold Medal of Achievement: Christian Prince. Christian completed 30 total merits, service activity within the local church, service in a leadership position within the outpost, Silver Medal of Achievement, and a 500 word essay among many other activities. There are more requirements for earning a GMA than an Eagle Scout Award!

The ceremony included Jerry Millhouser, District Commander; Don Bixler, NW Divisional Commander and Fred Lipowicz, FCF President. The Mayor of Independence, Don Reimal, was also in attendance.

Hats off to those who serve these ministries. All of you did a great job. Last night's service was a testimony of your involvement and influence. Thank You!

New Satellite Church

This past Sunday was Part 2 of our Chase The Lion series. We talked about Facing Fear. One of the points was "Courage is Required".

To illustrate that point, I had the great privilege to announce a new satellite church for Englewood Ministries. It will be pastored by Claude and Bonnie Cowan. Through some miraculous circumstances and a major amount of courage, God has united us with a local church that was no longer having services. And in the process, called Pastor Claude and Bonnie to be in leadership there. Click the above graphic for the video story.

We are asking our Englewood church family to do three things:
1. Pray for the church (formerly Eastside A/G church) and the surrounding community.
2. Pray for Englewood's leadership as we launch this new site and for Pastor Claude and Bonnie as they move into another area of ministry.
3. Pray about your involvement. I am believing God for 40 individuals to go and help serve in ministry along side Pastor Claude and Bonnie.
4. If interested, come to a meeting @ Eastside (directions) on Mon., Sept. 10 at 7:00 p.m.

This is undoubtedly a God thing and we thank Him for the opportunity to serve our community in a new way. Pastor Claude and Bonnie are two Courageous Lion Chasers who are living life in a way that is worth telling stories about.

The Way You Make Me Feel

I was recently accused of being a Child of the 80's. Guilty, I guess. I listened to a lot of music from that era and, unfortunately, Michael Jackson was one of them! Come on and admit it, you listened to Wacko-Jacko too :) "Hee, hee, hee" (MJ voice).

So, you know, that music often creeps (no pun intended) back up into my brain, like MJ's "The Way You Make Me Feel." Here's what I read today that triggerred the song:

People will forget what you said

People will forget what you did

But people will never forget how you made them feel

That really gets me. I'm thinking about all the dumb times I made people feel less than great about themselves, either intentionally or unintentionally (I'm sure I've done plenty of both). I'm going to try to work on that. Here's my prayer over it:

I Thessalonians 5:9-11 "God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we're awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we're alive with him! So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it." Message Bible

"His Image"

What an amazing reality, we are made in the image of God. It's almost beyond description to think that we are formed and fashioned in a similar mold of the Creator of the Universe. Since God is Spirit and transcends time and space, how do we measure up?

The word image means: representation, reflection, illustration and likeness. Maybe God was communicating to us that we should be His representative and be His reflection. And some of His incredible attributes include: love, respect, grace, laughter, truth, sensitivity, trust, forgiver, excitement, fun, wonder, unique, and light.

So I was challenged today to represent Him better and reflect his attributes in a more transparent and natural way. It's possible that we were created to allow God's light to shine down upon us, then bounce off of us to illuminate the truth for others.

And by the way, reflections happen best when you are standing closest to the image you want to reflect. You were made to be a "mirror image" of God. Let's represent Him the best we possibly can.

Powerful Phrases of Positive People

Read an interview this morning with Rich Devos , 73rd wealthiest American, founder of Amway, and owner of the NBA's Orlando Magic. The whole interview is great but one thing really caught me. Rich is 80 years old, a devoted Christian, and working on a new book, Powerful Phrases of Positive People. Here are a few phrases:

I'm wrong.

I'm sorry.

I trust you.

I'm proud of you!

I luv ya!

Don't you just love learning about the life approach of successful people? I do. Good stuff!

Relationships

Yesterday was one of the greatest days for me in recent memory. Monday is our weekly pastoral staff meeting, and we decided to do something a little different than assemble around a table in my office.

Since the remaining hot days are numbered, we had a pool party! That's right, a working pool party. I grilled hamburgers, brats, and hot dogs. Combine that with potato salad, baked beans, watermelon, a little Ricardo music and... come on! We ate together, and then went through our staff meeting--poolside.

Later, our families joined us for fun in the sun and more food. Smith, Ethan, & Joe had water wars. Braeden practiced his underwater somersault. Brock & Brody had fun on the slide. None of us can figure out why Pastor Ryan didn't get in water. We shared, laughed, teased one another, prayed and ate... lots. In short, we made memories. Later on that day, I sat back and watched the team God has assembled. And I was thankful for their devotion to Christ and to the people of our church. I thought about their faithfulness and hard work, and was reminded how important relationships are in life and ministry.

Nothing of value is created by a team of one. The Bible places high value on relationships. Moses had Aaron. David had Jonathan. Jesus had an inner-circle of Peter, James and John. And Paul may have developed the most meaningful and lasting relationships of all (see Ro. 16:1-16).

Ministry best happens in the arena of close and personal relationships. Developing people and sharing life together are more important than simply "doing church" together. I love our staff and thank God for allowing me to serve with them.

Selfless

This weekend, August 24th & 25th, we were privileged to have David & Gina Hanley speak to the worship team. They are the Executive Associate & Music Pastors at the LA Dream Center with a gigantic heart for people! The Hanleys shared from David's book Worship 23.5 Hours about what it really means to worship and to be on a worship team. It can be summed up in three ideas:

1. Worship is Selfless

2. Worship is Selfless

3. Worship is Selfless

Whether we are singing, playing an instrument, controlling the sound, or setting the mood with lights, everything we do is all about someone....and it's not us! Our commitment, service, energy, and hard work is all about connecting to and reaching the lost. Thanks for the inspiration and motivation David & Gina! You're awesome!

If you are interested in joining the worship team or in getting a copy of David Hanley's book, please contact Pastor Ryan Elrod.

Mark Batterson at Englewood

Well, I've had 2 days to process Mark's "Chase The Lion" message from Wed. night. Maybe somebody smarter than us can get it available for audio download here in a few days so check back (we're baby bloggers w/limited abilities!). I guess you could say we're Chasing The Technology Lion. :)

Having already read "In A Pit, With A Lion, On A Snowy Day," I found myself equally intrigued by the content and conviction. Content was awesome, conviction was palpable. Palpable is defined as "capable of being touched or felt." Mark has done "Chase The Lion" all over the country, but he puts it out there in such a way you feel you can touch your dream.

It was so great to hear Mark in person. He even flew in early Wed. to spend time with our pastoral staff and some key leaders on "The Big Idea". Brian can blog about that soon. By the way, I think we must have set a record for number of books sold at Englewood in one night. We went through almost 4 cases of books at 24 per case!

That probably speaks for itself, but tell us what you thought of Mark's message, give us a testimony, or let us know how you were challenged. You can post a comment by registering here (it's painless, really) or shoot us an e-mail at revross12@comcast.net.

Looking forward to this Sunday's kickoff of our "Chase The Lion" series!

Backsack Sighting

Just got a call from my son who spent the night with a friend. They were on their way to school down Truman Road in Independence when they spotted................3 RED BACKSACKS! They were 3 of 200+ Englewood Back to School Outreach backsacks given away Aug. 5.

The kids were being walked to school by their Mom. What a blessed phone call! Joe was so excited and so was I. I didn't really even have time to think, but the words just came out of me "See Joe, God blessed that family through us. What our church did that day made a difference!"

Acts 20:35 says, "...by working diligently in this manner, we ought to assist the weak, being mindful of the word of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive." Has anybody else out there seen an Englewood backsacks?

22 First Days

Today was the first day of school for Joe (6th grade) & Braeden (Pre-K) at Englewood Christian Academy. Joe is bummed; Braeden had a short cry. Our summer was busy with little league, t-ball, swimming, Royals games, staying up late, mini-golf, trips to Tropical Sno, kids camp and more Royals games! We had a great summer. Sad to see it end!

I was thinking this morning as the kids left for school with Brian, I hate to see the kids go. I actually enjoy having them home in the summer (of course, there are days.....).

I guess I was getting a bit sentimental (mark that) and I remembered a Broadway play by Billy Crystal called "700 Sundays". It's about the time he spent with his father before his father died when Billy was just 15. So, I sat down and calculated how many "First Days of School" Brian and I would actually get to savor with the kids (pre-school thru 12th). It was kind of cool. Here's my findings:

• As parents, we will have 22 First Days with one or both boys.
  
• The boys are 7 years apart, so that's 7 years of each individually, and 8 overlapping years.
  
  So thankful for our school and teachers. Here's to First Day # 9.

Staff Meeting with David Crowder

To start, David Crowder wasn't in our staff meeting! For the past several weeks, we as a pastoral staff have been learning from a Catalyst workbook. Today's lesson was from an article by David entitled "Praise Habit: Becoming Who We Are." I thought I'd share highlights with you. (Click on the graphic to check out David's book).

David insists that praise is something we all do. In fact, we are wired for it. We instinctively praise something, a favorite toy, certain food, an athlete, or a celebrity. He writes, "Remember how effortlessly we sang the praises of things we enjoyed? It was so easy and fluid and natural. What if this kind of praise freely leaked from us in delightful response to God?" Good question!

Our life should be filled with the presence of God upon us, which causes people to take notice. Because our Great God promises to "in-habit our praise(s)," the core of our existence should be to priase Him naturally and habitually. "A habit is an act aquired by experience and performed regularly and automatically...and involve no conscious choice among alternatives," Crowder says. Meaning, we as Christ followers have no other choice but to develop our "praise habit", and allow no distractions to interfere with our meeting time with God!

Even so, "praise habits" can become stale and require constant monitoring. Therefore, "we must continually seek ways to place ourselves in this (His) embrace."

Our personal praise habit is to literally put on Christ every day, so that the culture we live takes notice of Christ in us and reacts with unbelievable awe and holy reverence. David describes it this way, "To wear the rescue of Christ into every moment is for every moment to become alive with the possibility of revelation... our habit is the Christ. He covers us. He is what identifies us. We wear Him into every moment, and when we live with this awareness, we praise Christ."

Did you put on the "garment of praise?" (Is. 61:3) today? Is it showing in your actions and attitude? Why not take time right now to get fully dressed.