I know I talked a little about this last week before service, but I want to take a look at perspective. I wrote in a previous post about milk and honey and a little about 2009. I truly wish for each of you it will be a year that you enter into the promised land personally and relationally. But sometimes our outlook or perspective can keep us from what God has for us. Take a look at Numbers 14:1-4:
Num 14:1-4
Then all the people began weeping aloud, and they cried all night. 2 Their voices rose in a great chorus of complaint against Moses and Aaron. "We wish we had died in Egypt, or even here in the wilderness!" they wailed. 3 "Why is the LORD taking us to this country only to have us die in battle? Our wives and little ones will be carried off as slaves! Let's get out of here and return to Egypt!" 4 Then they plotted among themselves, "Let's choose a leader and go back to Egypt!" NLT
First, Death is something we fear. We always keep it ahead of us, sometimes it seems we look to it as our future more than we look for life. Maybe we feel that death is the only thing we can be sure of. Notice in this passage they either a) would have died in Egypt, or b) will die in battle. Life and that more abundant does not seem to be an option that they choose to believe, even though the Lord told them He wants to take them to someplace great and bless them and give them long life in the land He is giving them.
Then they decide, that if they are gonna die anyway, they would rather die comfortable instead of fighting for what has been promised to them. Think about this, they have already chosen to give up and not even go for what is theirs, they are defeated before they begin and they want to take what seems like the easy way out! Do we do that? Do we opt for the more comfortable way, even if we feel like it will end in failure? kind of a "you're doomed if you do and you're doomed if you don't" approach?
Let me encourage you, beleive what He said He will do, and go out fighting for it. It's worth it in the end. Sometimes, you just need to have the right perspective.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Milk and Honey
I don't know about you, but my days right now are spent looking back at 2008 and preparing for 2009. I have had many experiences during 2008, many learning experiences. Now I know that I will be learning as long as I'm alive, we never get to the point that we know everything; this year has been no exception. Anyway, As I look ahead to 2009, I am reminded of Caleb in Numbers chapter 14 verse 8 as he explains to the people of Israel what he saw in the land God was to give them:
8 And if the LORD is pleased with us, he will bring us safely into that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey, and he will give it to us! 9 Do not rebel against the LORD, and don't be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the LORD is with us! Don't be afraid of them!" NLT
One phrase I want to look at especially; It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. I have heard this reference since I was a child and I don't think anyone has ever explained it to me. I felt like I had an idea, but never fully explored the meaning. Let me give you some background on the story where this is mentioned. The people of Israel were slaves in Egypt for many years, and finally god had sent Moses to lead them out. There were many miracles that happened on their exodus (play on words) out of Egypt; there was no doubt god was with them. Before going all the way to the land God was giving them (Exodus 3:8), Moses sent a comittee of 12 men to take a look at the land and see what they were in for, or how big the job was for them to take over this land that God told them would be their new home. When the men returned to Moses, they seemed overwhelmed. Ten of these men said that the job was not possible. they warned Moses that they would not have success if they proceeded as planned. Then two men, Joshua and Caleb, spoke up and said they could do it. Caleb described the "promised" land as a rich land flowing with Milk and Honey.
To me, these words describe what we are looking at when we peer into the year 2009. As I write this I feel like Caleb as I have looked into 2009 and the possibilities and opportunities that lay ahead of us. I see the coming year as a land of Milk and Honey. The Milk represents growth and prosperity. It describes a time when our creativity is going to be raised and the influence of students will increase. It indicates healthy growth in our leadership. Honey describes a sweetness that can be likened to dessert after a meal. Not only will we have favor of growth and health, but we will be able to enjoy it. It will be a time filled with joyful experiences, like the frosting on the cake.
I want to explore this thought with you all over the next few weeks as the new year approaches. We have many responsibilities with what we do, but with that come many opportunities for growth and with growth comes a fullness that cannot fully be described. Be encouraged for what's in store for us as we move in to what God has for us!
8 And if the LORD is pleased with us, he will bring us safely into that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey, and he will give it to us! 9 Do not rebel against the LORD, and don't be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the LORD is with us! Don't be afraid of them!" NLT
One phrase I want to look at especially; It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. I have heard this reference since I was a child and I don't think anyone has ever explained it to me. I felt like I had an idea, but never fully explored the meaning. Let me give you some background on the story where this is mentioned. The people of Israel were slaves in Egypt for many years, and finally god had sent Moses to lead them out. There were many miracles that happened on their exodus (play on words) out of Egypt; there was no doubt god was with them. Before going all the way to the land God was giving them (Exodus 3:8), Moses sent a comittee of 12 men to take a look at the land and see what they were in for, or how big the job was for them to take over this land that God told them would be their new home. When the men returned to Moses, they seemed overwhelmed. Ten of these men said that the job was not possible. they warned Moses that they would not have success if they proceeded as planned. Then two men, Joshua and Caleb, spoke up and said they could do it. Caleb described the "promised" land as a rich land flowing with Milk and Honey.
To me, these words describe what we are looking at when we peer into the year 2009. As I write this I feel like Caleb as I have looked into 2009 and the possibilities and opportunities that lay ahead of us. I see the coming year as a land of Milk and Honey. The Milk represents growth and prosperity. It describes a time when our creativity is going to be raised and the influence of students will increase. It indicates healthy growth in our leadership. Honey describes a sweetness that can be likened to dessert after a meal. Not only will we have favor of growth and health, but we will be able to enjoy it. It will be a time filled with joyful experiences, like the frosting on the cake.
I want to explore this thought with you all over the next few weeks as the new year approaches. We have many responsibilities with what we do, but with that come many opportunities for growth and with growth comes a fullness that cannot fully be described. Be encouraged for what's in store for us as we move in to what God has for us!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Gimme
Hey small group leaders! Send me your creative ideas that you have done in your small groups. I'm looking for simple and difficult. Creative and the routine. All of the above. I just want to share with the group some things that you have implemented in your group and had some measure of success. I also want the good, the bad, and the ugly. We learn best from mistakes and maybe you can help someone else make a mistake and also maybe we can brainstorm to help tweak and idea. I just want to make sure we never get stale. Go ahead and leave a comment here.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Book
You may have noticed on the right side of the screen that I am now going to put up some book recommendations. In an effort not to overwhelm you, I only put up one to start with. There will be a maximum of 5 and I will put up a new one every week, usually with a short blog entry to intro and review it.
About the first recommendation; To Own a Dragon, Donald Miller has a writing style that I find relaxing and easy to read. I love his approach to things spiritual as he does not claim to have all the answers. the first chapter is a must for anyone who works with Jr High Students; we need to see the impact a man or woman can have on a teenager. the book mostly deals with the issues he faces as he struggles with the fact that he grew up without a dad. I know it helps me in getting better understanding that I would not otherwise have had. If you know much about Donald Miller, the author, you may or may not agree with all of his views (most recently political), but he is an honest writer who can really make you think. I own all of his books and enjoy the reads, I also recommend all of them.
About the first recommendation; To Own a Dragon, Donald Miller has a writing style that I find relaxing and easy to read. I love his approach to things spiritual as he does not claim to have all the answers. the first chapter is a must for anyone who works with Jr High Students; we need to see the impact a man or woman can have on a teenager. the book mostly deals with the issues he faces as he struggles with the fact that he grew up without a dad. I know it helps me in getting better understanding that I would not otherwise have had. If you know much about Donald Miller, the author, you may or may not agree with all of his views (most recently political), but he is an honest writer who can really make you think. I own all of his books and enjoy the reads, I also recommend all of them.
Friday, October 10, 2008
who likes video?
I'm not sure if anybody reads this, but I am curious if anyone can edit short video stuff for announcements and sermon intros. Get at me if you are interested.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
distracted
It's that time again, time to get distracted. No, not really. It's time for the Distracted series. This year we are focusing on three areas: Tunes, Screen, Fear and Friends. This Sunday we will have Rawd B. Jones speaking on being Distracted by Tunes. The next week Keith is speaking on Distracted by the Screen and then the week after Kam is speaking on Distracted by Fear.
Now, to add an element of fun to these weeks, October 19th, we will also have a contest for the best costume. what kind of costume you ask? Everyone is encouraged to dress up as their favorite movie character. October 26 will be the night to dress up as your favorite sports team mascot. Then, November 2 is 70's night, so come dressed up in your best polyester and butterfly collars!
Now, to add an element of fun to these weeks, October 19th, we will also have a contest for the best costume. what kind of costume you ask? Everyone is encouraged to dress up as their favorite movie character. October 26 will be the night to dress up as your favorite sports team mascot. Then, November 2 is 70's night, so come dressed up in your best polyester and butterfly collars!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Soooooo..........
I moved this week. Whew, I'm still not unpacked.
Also, this is the last week of our Freedom series; Life in the Kingdom. Last week, as I was preaching about The Kingdom of God, I remember as I was right in the middle of the sermon thinking to myself, "you know, this is waaaayyy out there." It really is. My prayer is that I planted a seed and that it was watered with understanding afterwards in the small groups. Remember, this is way out there for the adults, granted that is because they have years upon years of incorrect teaching and lies from the enemy, but naturally it can be a little difficult to understand. But I also know this, as long as we (AMPED) are true to God's Word, it will always produce fruit
I like hot tea, but not the fruity kinds.
Get involved in Follow Up, it's good for your heart! Tell Kris Meier you wanna volunteer.
Also, this is the last week of our Freedom series; Life in the Kingdom. Last week, as I was preaching about The Kingdom of God, I remember as I was right in the middle of the sermon thinking to myself, "you know, this is waaaayyy out there." It really is. My prayer is that I planted a seed and that it was watered with understanding afterwards in the small groups. Remember, this is way out there for the adults, granted that is because they have years upon years of incorrect teaching and lies from the enemy, but naturally it can be a little difficult to understand. But I also know this, as long as we (AMPED) are true to God's Word, it will always produce fruit
Isa 55:11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. NLT
I like hot tea, but not the fruity kinds.
Get involved in Follow Up, it's good for your heart! Tell Kris Meier you wanna volunteer.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Responsible
Hello my fellow Jr. High immersed peeps! a new note of interest:
Over the past few weeks, we have seen very large numbers of first time guests; 44 this last week and 52 the week before. Surprisingly, we have not seemed to grow in overall numbers. Granted, we are averaging more in attendance than we ever have, but the trend I am seeing is that we are not retaining these students. we are having some come back the second and third time, but we don't seem to keep them long term.
One of the things I have seen as our greatest weakness is our lack of follow up. I think we are great at spending time with the kids and even making them feel a part of what we are doing (especially with access groups), but there is another easy step we can take to let them know that we know they were there and we want them to come back.
We are exploring a few options, but the ones that seem to rise to the top are emails AND phone calls. One way we would do the phone calls is to split up the number of first time guests per week between all of our service team captains and access group leaders. This would mean that you have 4 or 5 kids to call and follow up with during the week. A little verbiage and convo to let them know we were glad they came and we wanna see them again, even give them a little info if they need.
Don't let this be intimidating, let it be exciting! We are being responsible with the Students God is sending us!
Over the past few weeks, we have seen very large numbers of first time guests; 44 this last week and 52 the week before. Surprisingly, we have not seemed to grow in overall numbers. Granted, we are averaging more in attendance than we ever have, but the trend I am seeing is that we are not retaining these students. we are having some come back the second and third time, but we don't seem to keep them long term.
One of the things I have seen as our greatest weakness is our lack of follow up. I think we are great at spending time with the kids and even making them feel a part of what we are doing (especially with access groups), but there is another easy step we can take to let them know that we know they were there and we want them to come back.
We are exploring a few options, but the ones that seem to rise to the top are emails AND phone calls. One way we would do the phone calls is to split up the number of first time guests per week between all of our service team captains and access group leaders. This would mean that you have 4 or 5 kids to call and follow up with during the week. A little verbiage and convo to let them know we were glad they came and we wanna see them again, even give them a little info if they need.
Don't let this be intimidating, let it be exciting! We are being responsible with the Students God is sending us!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
switcharoo
Okay, so this last Sunday was our first time to have access groups in a while. It was also our first time to do the VIP room at the beginning. While there were a lot of students in the VIP room, we would like to try and move it to the great room that is right next to where we sign kids in after they walk in the door. I know, I know, it's strategic. That way when the kids sign in as they walk in the door we can usher them right into the VIP room.
Speaking of the great room, because of the time change of service (now 6:15 instead of 6:45), the worship team will be practicing and doing their sound check at 4:15, which means we will move our prayer and info times to the great room. So at 4:30 we will meet in the great room for 15 minutes of prayer and 15 minutes of instructional time. Then at 5 we will split off into our service teams as usual.
Well thanks for tuning in and as usual if you have any questions don't hesitate to ask. have a great day!
Speaking of the great room, because of the time change of service (now 6:15 instead of 6:45), the worship team will be practicing and doing their sound check at 4:15, which means we will move our prayer and info times to the great room. So at 4:30 we will meet in the great room for 15 minutes of prayer and 15 minutes of instructional time. Then at 5 we will split off into our service teams as usual.
Well thanks for tuning in and as usual if you have any questions don't hesitate to ask. have a great day!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Okee Dokee
I know I sent out an email this afternoon to most of you, but I also wanted to add the info here.
4:30 PM All staff (including volunteer) prayer in the auditorium
4:45 PM Volunteer Meeting – to discuss the evening and a word from our sponsor
5:00 Break into service teams to get your area ready and discuss any team specifics
5:30 Open Doors / All Skate
Now, because of the new format with Access Groups, we are also changing when and how we do VIP room. It will not be after service, but instead we will do it from 5:30-6:15. We will still punch the cards and have them go to the hospitality room. They will still get pizza and a coke. But we will not give the bags ‘til the end of the evening. At the end of the service, they can check in near the front doors at the information booth and give their VIP card that has 3 punches and get a goody bag.
6:15 PM Service starts with Worship
7:15 Service ends (worship time, announcements and preaching) this is when we will do the regular altar ministry time by the altar ministry team for anyone who needs prayer
7:20 Access Groups (notice we allowed for a 5 minute gap to get the kids into their group)
7:45 Ending of access groups
8:00 AMPED is over, parents pick up the students
4:30 PM All staff (including volunteer) prayer in the auditorium
4:45 PM Volunteer Meeting – to discuss the evening and a word from our sponsor
5:00 Break into service teams to get your area ready and discuss any team specifics
5:30 Open Doors / All Skate
Now, because of the new format with Access Groups, we are also changing when and how we do VIP room. It will not be after service, but instead we will do it from 5:30-6:15. We will still punch the cards and have them go to the hospitality room. They will still get pizza and a coke. But we will not give the bags ‘til the end of the evening. At the end of the service, they can check in near the front doors at the information booth and give their VIP card that has 3 punches and get a goody bag.
6:15 PM Service starts with Worship
7:15 Service ends (worship time, announcements and preaching) this is when we will do the regular altar ministry time by the altar ministry team for anyone who needs prayer
7:20 Access Groups (notice we allowed for a 5 minute gap to get the kids into their group)
7:45 Ending of access groups
8:00 AMPED is over, parents pick up the students
Saturday, September 6, 2008
I'm hungry...
...for a lot of things.
At home or during the day, when I get hungry, I try not to ignore it. You know that if you don't feed it you will remain hungry and you know that even if you do, you will be hungry again. The object is not to keep from getting hungry, but to anticipate the hunger and then to temporarily alleviate that hunger by feeding.
Now that I've stated the obvious, as I was in church tonight, I realized that I was hungry, but not physically. I was thinking about the Freedom series and how I'd like to see everybody respond. I was thinking about pre-service prayer and how that will affect our passion. I was thinking about a renewed passion to study the Word. I was thinking about spending time in prayer personally. I was thinking about the next several months at AMPED and what we hope to accomplish.
What are you hungry for? What will it cause you to do?
At home or during the day, when I get hungry, I try not to ignore it. You know that if you don't feed it you will remain hungry and you know that even if you do, you will be hungry again. The object is not to keep from getting hungry, but to anticipate the hunger and then to temporarily alleviate that hunger by feeding.
Now that I've stated the obvious, as I was in church tonight, I realized that I was hungry, but not physically. I was thinking about the Freedom series and how I'd like to see everybody respond. I was thinking about pre-service prayer and how that will affect our passion. I was thinking about a renewed passion to study the Word. I was thinking about spending time in prayer personally. I was thinking about the next several months at AMPED and what we hope to accomplish.
What are you hungry for? What will it cause you to do?
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Great Expectancy
Can you feel it?
It's in the air.
It's a great expectancy for the Lord to begin something new and great and refreshing and revelatory starting September 14. This is when we start our Freedom series and access groups and service teams with captains. My anticipation is overwhelming.
Allow me to challenge you as I am challenged. I have a tendency to live and feed upon my past. In this case I am not talking about the bad parts of my past, but the good. The great. The wonderful seasons in which I had a great time with the Lord. I hear the Lord telling us it is a new season and the season is now! Please please please ask and be hungry for something brand new, so much better than it has been before. I ask you to be very prayerful and bring it up often in your conversations with the Lord. I ask that you would even consider and ask the Lord about fasting for this new season.
Of course I am excited and expect great things with this upcoming series on Freedom. I anticipate spiritual eyes and ears to be open, for the students and the adults. Ask the Lord to show you specific students and begin praying for them now. Even ask him to show you the faces of some students you don't even know or haven't met yet and pray for them. Ask for Salvations, healings, and for the chains of the enemy to be broken. I can't describe to you how strongly I feel about this. ask for the Lord to give me and Kam the words and annointing to preach this series. Pray for the students to open up in the small groups.
Have I told you I'm excited?
It's in the air.
It's a great expectancy for the Lord to begin something new and great and refreshing and revelatory starting September 14. This is when we start our Freedom series and access groups and service teams with captains. My anticipation is overwhelming.
Allow me to challenge you as I am challenged. I have a tendency to live and feed upon my past. In this case I am not talking about the bad parts of my past, but the good. The great. The wonderful seasons in which I had a great time with the Lord. I hear the Lord telling us it is a new season and the season is now! Please please please ask and be hungry for something brand new, so much better than it has been before. I ask you to be very prayerful and bring it up often in your conversations with the Lord. I ask that you would even consider and ask the Lord about fasting for this new season.
Of course I am excited and expect great things with this upcoming series on Freedom. I anticipate spiritual eyes and ears to be open, for the students and the adults. Ask the Lord to show you specific students and begin praying for them now. Even ask him to show you the faces of some students you don't even know or haven't met yet and pray for them. Ask for Salvations, healings, and for the chains of the enemy to be broken. I can't describe to you how strongly I feel about this. ask for the Lord to give me and Kam the words and annointing to preach this series. Pray for the students to open up in the small groups.
Have I told you I'm excited?
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Freedom from ...
Fear.
I think this is something that plagues us as a society today but we don't talk about it, especially in the church. I know that as Pastor Robert has been speaking in this series about the blessed life, some of these issues have been raised in my own heart. Even the last few days I have been tempted to fear. When it does happen I pray that the Lord would help my unbelief. I ask that He would take what I beleive in my heart and make it override my head.
So this morning as I was studying and doing a little devotional, He kept encouraging me. I read Psalm 34.
Ps 34:4-6
4 I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me,
freeing me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy;
no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
6 I cried out to the LORD in my suffering, and he heard me.
He set me free from all my fears.
NLT
Ps 34:8-10
8 Taste and see that the LORD is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him!
9 Let the LORD's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
10 Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the LORD will never lack any good thing.
NLT
Ps 34:17-20
17 The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
19 The righteous face many troubles,
but the LORD rescues them from each and every one.
20 For the LORD protects them from harm —
not one of their bones will be broken!
NLT
Very powerful scripture. Then I was reading in a journal that I wrote years ago and came upon a page that simply had one thing written in it; a quote by Matthew Henry: "Faith in God will set us above the ensnaring fear of man."
Oh yeah, on the way to work I was listening to the new Hillsong album and the song "Healer" came on. There's some inspiration that'll help cure what ails ya.
As I opened the journal from years ago, a bookmark fell out that had a scripture on it:
Ps 28:7
7 The LORD is my strength, my shield from every danger.
I trust in him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.
I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
NLT
then I opened my prayer journal and was able to write down several answers to prayer!
Let me tell you, whatever it is, He is able! If you need encouraging today, just spend a little time with the Lord; He's good for it.
I think this is something that plagues us as a society today but we don't talk about it, especially in the church. I know that as Pastor Robert has been speaking in this series about the blessed life, some of these issues have been raised in my own heart. Even the last few days I have been tempted to fear. When it does happen I pray that the Lord would help my unbelief. I ask that He would take what I beleive in my heart and make it override my head.
So this morning as I was studying and doing a little devotional, He kept encouraging me. I read Psalm 34.
Ps 34:4-6
4 I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me,
freeing me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy;
no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
6 I cried out to the LORD in my suffering, and he heard me.
He set me free from all my fears.
NLT
Ps 34:8-10
8 Taste and see that the LORD is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him!
9 Let the LORD's people show him reverence,
for those who honor him will have all they need.
10 Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry,
but those who trust in the LORD will never lack any good thing.
NLT
Ps 34:17-20
17 The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help.
He rescues them from all their troubles.
18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.
19 The righteous face many troubles,
but the LORD rescues them from each and every one.
20 For the LORD protects them from harm —
not one of their bones will be broken!
NLT
Very powerful scripture. Then I was reading in a journal that I wrote years ago and came upon a page that simply had one thing written in it; a quote by Matthew Henry: "Faith in God will set us above the ensnaring fear of man."
Oh yeah, on the way to work I was listening to the new Hillsong album and the song "Healer" came on. There's some inspiration that'll help cure what ails ya.
As I opened the journal from years ago, a bookmark fell out that had a scripture on it:
Ps 28:7
7 The LORD is my strength, my shield from every danger.
I trust in him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.
I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
NLT
then I opened my prayer journal and was able to write down several answers to prayer!
Let me tell you, whatever it is, He is able! If you need encouraging today, just spend a little time with the Lord; He's good for it.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Friday mornings
Okay, who likes Cracker Barrel? If you are raising your hand then let me invite you to our Friday morning breakfast at Cracker Barrel in Grapevine. We usually meet at 8 am and just hang out and have breakfast. No Agenda. Just good times with friends. So, with that said, we are having breakfast tomorrow and you are more than welcome to come, in fact, consider this a formal invitation.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Oh the places you'll go!
Howdy everybody!
Here we are on the cusp of another great school year. Can't you just smell walking into the hallway of your school as it has been freshly painted and cleaned all summer? Maybe that's just me. Anyhoo, Summer has been crazy busy and we are now settling down into the final preparation for the fall and spring. We've got several things going on this fall that I am really excited about and I want you to know about.
Parents meet and greet for new 6th graders - August 17th.
Pastor Zach Neese will be preaching at this AMPED for the last service in the Turn Up the Heat series. Kam and I will be hosting parents of the new 6th graders that night and we will have Pastors Ken Jackson and Jelani Lewis with us. Moving up to Jr High is a really big deal for these new 6th graders and their parents and we want to really make them feel welcome.
AMPED Olympics - August 24.
Our own version of the olympics, AMPED style! I am an Olympic nerd. I love to watch the Olympics on tv and online. This will be a crazy fun night where the kids are split into teams and compete in fun games against each other. We really need all of you there to lead and facilitate the games with the students.
Back to School Bash with Skit Guys - August 31.
For those of you that were here last year when we had the Skit Guys, they are hilarious. You won't want to miss this night. We will also give away a free Nintendo Wii to the student that brings the most first time guests. The students will have been in school for a week at this time and we really hope they connect with friends they haven's seen all summer and invite them to come.
There are more events to come but these are the immediate ones that I really want you to be aware of.
I know this becomes a very busy time of year for everyone, but please do your best to make sure you are here at AMPED. If we didn't need you we would tell you. Know that all of you are valued and needed at AMPED. If you are anticipating not making it to AMPED, please let me know at least a week in advance so we can make preparations in your absence.
Have a great week!
Here we are on the cusp of another great school year. Can't you just smell walking into the hallway of your school as it has been freshly painted and cleaned all summer? Maybe that's just me. Anyhoo, Summer has been crazy busy and we are now settling down into the final preparation for the fall and spring. We've got several things going on this fall that I am really excited about and I want you to know about.
Parents meet and greet for new 6th graders - August 17th.
Pastor Zach Neese will be preaching at this AMPED for the last service in the Turn Up the Heat series. Kam and I will be hosting parents of the new 6th graders that night and we will have Pastors Ken Jackson and Jelani Lewis with us. Moving up to Jr High is a really big deal for these new 6th graders and their parents and we want to really make them feel welcome.
AMPED Olympics - August 24.
Our own version of the olympics, AMPED style! I am an Olympic nerd. I love to watch the Olympics on tv and online. This will be a crazy fun night where the kids are split into teams and compete in fun games against each other. We really need all of you there to lead and facilitate the games with the students.
Back to School Bash with Skit Guys - August 31.
For those of you that were here last year when we had the Skit Guys, they are hilarious. You won't want to miss this night. We will also give away a free Nintendo Wii to the student that brings the most first time guests. The students will have been in school for a week at this time and we really hope they connect with friends they haven's seen all summer and invite them to come.
There are more events to come but these are the immediate ones that I really want you to be aware of.
I know this becomes a very busy time of year for everyone, but please do your best to make sure you are here at AMPED. If we didn't need you we would tell you. Know that all of you are valued and needed at AMPED. If you are anticipating not making it to AMPED, please let me know at least a week in advance so we can make preparations in your absence.
Have a great week!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Here we come!
Okay peeps, Fall is almost here. In a few days we will have the Group 1 crew concert and then a few weeks after that we will have the back to school bash. The week after that we will begin our series on Freedom as well as our access groups. I am totally stoked about that.
We are also officially done with our trips for the summer. Whew!
Camp was amazing. No doubt about it. But it left me drained. I wish I would have had more energy than I did. I don't exactly know why it was so tiring for me, but the night services were all out for me. There was a lot invested. I feel that the services may have been what drained me, but that has never been the case before. I guess its a whole new ballgame now.
New Orleans was a good trip and it was good to see that the city is getting back on its feet. There will always be needs there, but it feels good that it is not so desolate. It was so stinkin hot there, but these kids we have in AMPED worked so hard, without one complaint.
I'm ready for the Fall and all that it will bring. I am sad about the 8th graders we are losing and feel good about how we have worked to let the incoming 6th graders feel about coming in. Please be aware of how nervous they will be and go the extra mile to welcome them and love on them as they start out at AMPED. Also be praying and try to coach our older students on makin them part of the family.
We are also planning out '09 and if you have any suggestions, please let us know.
We are also officially done with our trips for the summer. Whew!
Camp was amazing. No doubt about it. But it left me drained. I wish I would have had more energy than I did. I don't exactly know why it was so tiring for me, but the night services were all out for me. There was a lot invested. I feel that the services may have been what drained me, but that has never been the case before. I guess its a whole new ballgame now.
New Orleans was a good trip and it was good to see that the city is getting back on its feet. There will always be needs there, but it feels good that it is not so desolate. It was so stinkin hot there, but these kids we have in AMPED worked so hard, without one complaint.
I'm ready for the Fall and all that it will bring. I am sad about the 8th graders we are losing and feel good about how we have worked to let the incoming 6th graders feel about coming in. Please be aware of how nervous they will be and go the extra mile to welcome them and love on them as they start out at AMPED. Also be praying and try to coach our older students on makin them part of the family.
We are also planning out '09 and if you have any suggestions, please let us know.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
No Monthly Leadership meeting July 3rd
Happy 4th of July weekend to all!
Just a note, there will be no monthly leaders meeting tonight, Thursday July 3rd. Enjoy your holiday weekend and we will see you all Sunday night at AMPED!
James Reid
Just a note, there will be no monthly leaders meeting tonight, Thursday July 3rd. Enjoy your holiday weekend and we will see you all Sunday night at AMPED!
James Reid
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Ummmm
Okay, so, wow. Camp pretty much just blew me away. Overwhelmed is the word I keep coming back to. For those of you that went, you know what I'm talking about. For those that did not, we missed you a lot. I must say, Jr. High students never cease to amaze me. Never, I say it again, never underestimate the passion and drive and spiritual hunger of a Jr. High student.
Also never underestimate the hurt of a Jr. High student. One of the things that I heard back, from students and adults alike, was that they loved the family time. This was a time where we had no agenda. Secretly I thought it would bomb, but the campers loved that we actually asked them about what they thought and then listened to them. Isn't that what we all want, for someone to listen to us?
The evening services were crazy good. I mean crazy good. Here is a break down:
Thursday night - Let God re-write your story.
Friday night - Lose your fear and get out of the boat. Let God heal you from thoughts of suicide. Let God heal that place in your heart where you have been wounded by your father.
Saturday night - Forgive those that have offended or hurt you and let go of the unforgiveness. Come and get filled with the power of the Holy Spirit - he's not weird.
Sunday night - Live your life loud for God and be unashamed.
Now go take on the world!
Also never underestimate the hurt of a Jr. High student. One of the things that I heard back, from students and adults alike, was that they loved the family time. This was a time where we had no agenda. Secretly I thought it would bomb, but the campers loved that we actually asked them about what they thought and then listened to them. Isn't that what we all want, for someone to listen to us?
The evening services were crazy good. I mean crazy good. Here is a break down:
Thursday night - Let God re-write your story.
Friday night - Lose your fear and get out of the boat. Let God heal you from thoughts of suicide. Let God heal that place in your heart where you have been wounded by your father.
Saturday night - Forgive those that have offended or hurt you and let go of the unforgiveness. Come and get filled with the power of the Holy Spirit - he's not weird.
Sunday night - Live your life loud for God and be unashamed.
Now go take on the world!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
back up
well, I am so glad for back up plans. Our nurse is moving to Arkansas tomorrow so PTL we have a backup nurse (Yay Lauren!) and it's supposed to rain tomorrow so our inclement weather plan is to do check in inside the hospitality room. Whoever thought of the concept of the backup plan, I salute you!
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Fun!
Okay, so I see that some are coming around to take a look periodically, especially since I sent out an email last week saying I posted a new one. So I'm trying to keep this thang on the regular. You are also more than welcome to leave a comment; it sends me an email each time someone does. I encourage you to do so.
BTW, our next fun night is July 13. Come on and hang out with kids because you never know what we have in store! It is definitely not a night off. It is a time to purposely build relationships. It will be a great time to follow up on the relationships you will create at CAMPED!
One more thing, Chris K. will be helping with the CAMPED blog and updating it nightly with updates for the parents and videos from the day. I think we will even have pics up on flickr. I won't give out the addy's for those yet because there is nothing to see yet, but as soon as we have it up I will give you a sneak peek.
Shoot me some ideas for pulling late night pranks at camp, or some stories of stuff you have done in the past...
BTW, our next fun night is July 13. Come on and hang out with kids because you never know what we have in store! It is definitely not a night off. It is a time to purposely build relationships. It will be a great time to follow up on the relationships you will create at CAMPED!
One more thing, Chris K. will be helping with the CAMPED blog and updating it nightly with updates for the parents and videos from the day. I think we will even have pics up on flickr. I won't give out the addy's for those yet because there is nothing to see yet, but as soon as we have it up I will give you a sneak peek.
Shoot me some ideas for pulling late night pranks at camp, or some stories of stuff you have done in the past...
Saturday, June 14, 2008
no amped :(
Okay kids, here's the scoop. AMPED is cancelled this Sunday (June 15) for Father's day, so go call your dad or someone else's dad! Also, no AMPED next week (June 22) because most of us will be at CAMPED! I know, I hear you whimpering if you can't go. The hardest part this year was pulling the trigger and telling kids and or parents we did not have any room left. Honestly, I did not anticipate this problem. We are taking 235 kids. That's a lot more than last year. So next year we will try to plan a little better, but I'm so stoked!
Sr High just got back from their camp last night and boy am I hearing some great things! Sounds like everyone had a blast. Pics are all over Facebook and even some videos. I can't wait to see the videos of the services.
Anyway, I am enjoying the time off this weekend; yesterday was my birthday and today is my 11th wedding anniversary, so I took some time off. Right now I'm chillin in the back yard with my two little girls. Here's some pics. Enjoy!
Sr High just got back from their camp last night and boy am I hearing some great things! Sounds like everyone had a blast. Pics are all over Facebook and even some videos. I can't wait to see the videos of the services.
Anyway, I am enjoying the time off this weekend; yesterday was my birthday and today is my 11th wedding anniversary, so I took some time off. Right now I'm chillin in the back yard with my two little girls. Here's some pics. Enjoy!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Wassup?
Well, sorry to say I haven't kept us with this lately. I always feel the need to connect with you guys so I am making an effort to type down some of the things that are happening and we are planning.
Last night was great. I love the fact that we can let our hair down and have some fun every once in a while. The kids had a blast, I had a good response to the message, and there was a great overall feeling in the VIP room. Thanks to all of you that made last night possible. I also had a great set up and tear down crew that made it possible for us to have the inflatables up and running. These guys cam in early and stayed late. You know who you are, and I thank you for it.
Camp is upon us! I will have a separate blog entry on that later...
My previous post was about our summer intern program. I know this hasn't gotten a lot of attention, and since this is our first time doing this, I haven't promoted the heck out of it. Mainly, I know the summer is busy for families, but I want to make sure we stay connected. I also want to give some ownership of the ministry to students. Hopefully we can make this fun and exciting and also give the students something to look forward to each week. If your one of our adult volunteers, feel free to join us antime when we start in July. I know we would love to have you.
Alas, There will be no AMPED for the next two weeks. Next week is Father's day and the week after that we will be at CAMPED. Rest assured, we will resume June 29. Kam will be continuing our series on "God R U There?"
Oh yeah, this makes me laugh, out, loud.
Last night was great. I love the fact that we can let our hair down and have some fun every once in a while. The kids had a blast, I had a good response to the message, and there was a great overall feeling in the VIP room. Thanks to all of you that made last night possible. I also had a great set up and tear down crew that made it possible for us to have the inflatables up and running. These guys cam in early and stayed late. You know who you are, and I thank you for it.
Camp is upon us! I will have a separate blog entry on that later...
My previous post was about our summer intern program. I know this hasn't gotten a lot of attention, and since this is our first time doing this, I haven't promoted the heck out of it. Mainly, I know the summer is busy for families, but I want to make sure we stay connected. I also want to give some ownership of the ministry to students. Hopefully we can make this fun and exciting and also give the students something to look forward to each week. If your one of our adult volunteers, feel free to join us antime when we start in July. I know we would love to have you.
Alas, There will be no AMPED for the next two weeks. Next week is Father's day and the week after that we will be at CAMPED. Rest assured, we will resume June 29. Kam will be continuing our series on "God R U There?"
Oh yeah, this makes me laugh, out, loud.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Summer Intern Program
We are now announcing our first ever Summer Intern Program for Jr High Students! We are first offering this to our students in leadership and then opening up to all of our students as space allows; we only have enough space for 30 students. This is an opportunity for Jr High Students to connect with AMPED in a way never before possible. We will have times with other pastors here at Gateway, students will have valuable input for the services and our programs in the fall, and get hands on training in areas like media and creative arts. Kam, Brittney and I will be leading it on Wednesdays and Thursdays for 6 weeks this summer starting in July. The students will gather here at the Gateway Church offices starting at 10 am and go until 3 pm. They will need to bring a sack lunch unless we have a special day that we will announce beforehand. Each day will be different because of the different ministries the students will be exposed to. If you are interested in coming to help or be involved without having to commit weekly, or have any other questions, please email us.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
No AMPED Services on Sunday May 11
Just a reminder that there will be no AMPED service on Sunday May 11, 2008 for Mother's Day.
Use this day to honor the special ladies in your life that have impacted both our lives as mothers and grandmothers.
We will resume our services on Sunday May 18, 2008.
Blessings,
James Reid
Use this day to honor the special ladies in your life that have impacted both our lives as mothers and grandmothers.
We will resume our services on Sunday May 18, 2008.
Blessings,
James Reid
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Monthly Leaders Meeting Thurs. May 8
Hello AMPED Leaders,We normally have our monthly leadership meeting on the first Thursday of each month but due to the National Day of Prayer we are moving the meeting to Thursday May 8, 2008 at 7pm.
This meeting is required for all current AMPED Leaders.
The meeting will be held at the Gateway Church Administrative offices.
Please come to the main entrance at the offices at 500 S. Nolen in Southlake, TX.
The meeting will be in conference room 300.
Our featured speaker will be Pastor Brad Stahl. We look forward to seeing you there!
Email with any questions to ampedleaders@gatewaypeople.com
Blessings,
James Reid
This meeting is required for all current AMPED Leaders.
The meeting will be held at the Gateway Church Administrative offices.
Please come to the main entrance at the offices at 500 S. Nolen in Southlake, TX.
The meeting will be in conference room 300.
Our featured speaker will be Pastor Brad Stahl. We look forward to seeing you there!
Email with any questions to ampedleaders@gatewaypeople.com
Blessings,
James Reid
Sunday, April 20, 2008
birth
you get what you ask for. just talk to Mike Melenka. tonight in the pre service meeting, I asked him what he wanted at AMPED, and he said he wanted kids to get saved tonight. so I then asked him to lead us in that prayer.
guess what, three guys got saved in his small group! you get what you ask for, especially when you ask fo what the Father wants. He wants his sons to come for salvation. congrats guys, welcome to eternity with the Father.
which also reminds me that 7 guys got saved in the 8th grade guys small group last week. God truly blesses us. i'm pretty stoked about what god is doing at AMPED, and you should be too. you are a part of this thing.
so i'm asking you, what do you wanna see happen at AMPED? I know what I wanna see and i'm gonna ask for it specifically.
guess what, three guys got saved in his small group! you get what you ask for, especially when you ask fo what the Father wants. He wants his sons to come for salvation. congrats guys, welcome to eternity with the Father.
which also reminds me that 7 guys got saved in the 8th grade guys small group last week. God truly blesses us. i'm pretty stoked about what god is doing at AMPED, and you should be too. you are a part of this thing.
so i'm asking you, what do you wanna see happen at AMPED? I know what I wanna see and i'm gonna ask for it specifically.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Train!
What's up kids? Well just in case you check this blog with intense vigilence, I want to let you know that tonight we are having our leadership training for those of you who haven't gone thru it yet. We're gonna cover all kinds of stuff like small groups and stuff. So be at the Gateway offices tonight at 7 pm if you haven't been thru the training yet.
So remember the youtube post? So yeah I was on youtube just a sec ago and it had a small vid from Madonna about her new music video. Apparently we are told by the media that she is so great and of course Justin Timberlake is supposed to be great, so the obvious conclusion is that any music they do together is great. I don't buy it. I didn't buy it. Have you heard it? Don't beleive the hype. Anyway, Madonna looks super scary these days. I guess age has not been kind to her so the plastic surgery is very obvious. {{shivers}}
So remember the youtube post? So yeah I was on youtube just a sec ago and it had a small vid from Madonna about her new music video. Apparently we are told by the media that she is so great and of course Justin Timberlake is supposed to be great, so the obvious conclusion is that any music they do together is great. I don't buy it. I didn't buy it. Have you heard it? Don't beleive the hype. Anyway, Madonna looks super scary these days. I guess age has not been kind to her so the plastic surgery is very obvious. {{shivers}}
Sunday, April 13, 2008
camp
holy cow I am looking forward to camp this year. We will have it at Sky Ranch Cave Springs in Oklahoma and it is going to be great. Last year was our first summer to have a Jr High only camp and it was a success. Now our second summer will be at a second location and we have more stuff to do. The campsite is better and we also have a new relationship with Sky Ranch.
This camp will be a little different in the fact that we are going to have more opportunities for spiritual encounters and teachable moments with the campers and we will also have a night event every night.
Please start praying now daily for camp if you haven't started yet that the kids that need to go will be able to and that the Holy Spirit will begin the jprocess in their hearts and in our own for us to get exactly what we need to at camp. Pray for fun, saftety, opportunities, our speaker (Jon Pritikin), and also the staff at Sky Ranch. I am praying that YOU get to go because we need all the quality people that we can to go. If you talk to a parent that wants to go but they are on the fence, talk them into it.
Trust me, you wanna be there.
This camp will be a little different in the fact that we are going to have more opportunities for spiritual encounters and teachable moments with the campers and we will also have a night event every night.
Please start praying now daily for camp if you haven't started yet that the kids that need to go will be able to and that the Holy Spirit will begin the jprocess in their hearts and in our own for us to get exactly what we need to at camp. Pray for fun, saftety, opportunities, our speaker (Jon Pritikin), and also the staff at Sky Ranch. I am praying that YOU get to go because we need all the quality people that we can to go. If you talk to a parent that wants to go but they are on the fence, talk them into it.
Trust me, you wanna be there.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Youtube
You guessed it, we now have some of our videos uploaded on Youtube. just search for ampedjrhigh and you can see what we have up there. Also, if you have any videos of your own that we can use, let me know.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
busy
Well, here we are at a time when I have been way too busy but I am excited about what is in the near future. I'm sorry I haven't posted in a while but I assure you it's not because there isn't anything to talk about.
We are heading into camp season and all the prep work is in full force. I am totally stoked about camp this year and I know it's gonna be a blast!
We are also in the planning stages for our New Orleans trip. It looks to be a great one also.
Man, we sure are getting some hail at my house right now; I hope it doesn't wake the babies.
I have more to write about but I will save it for next time...
We are heading into camp season and all the prep work is in full force. I am totally stoked about camp this year and I know it's gonna be a blast!
We are also in the planning stages for our New Orleans trip. It looks to be a great one also.
Man, we sure are getting some hail at my house right now; I hope it doesn't wake the babies.
I have more to write about but I will save it for next time...
Thursday, February 28, 2008
AMPED Jr. High Leadership Training Sat. 3/1/08
For those of you who missed the first training on Feb 9 at the church offices here is your next opportunity to attend the required training for all AMPED leaders. This is also for any new leaders joining AMPED. See the details below and email your confirmation of attendance to AMPEDLeaders@gatewaypeople.com. See you Saturday!
Monday, February 25, 2008
Excellent
If you're like me, when you read that word you think of Mr Burns stretching out the sounds as he wrings his bony hands. The meaning of excellent or excellence is something easily forgotten.
I am very excited and more passionate about ministry right now than I have been for a good while. I believe we have been given a huge responsibility with Jr High students and parents trusting us every week when they show up to AMPED. But there have been things that have plagued AMPED ever since I have been a part of it, even as a volunteer.
Have you ever heard the saying that 20% of the people do 80% of the work? Usually the 20% get bitter and burned out and the 80% never think that there is anything to be worried about because they do not operate out of a spirit of excellence; usually because they have never been challenged to have that spirit of excellence.
Let me ask you, Is God excellent? Look at this:
Phil 4:8 Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.NLT
Excellence
Work ethic
Passion
Commitment
Discipline
If you notice, I put some buzzwords in there. Words that are tossed around so much that they almost lose meaning when they enter our head. Really think about them. Really think about how they affect you and if they have a hold on you. If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right.
I want your life to reflect this, no matter what you do because in all you do, you represent the Almighty. As a pastor, I concern myself with your life and all that it entails. I feel like you have given me that right because you have enlisted yourself and your work in an area of ministry that God has entrusted me with. I want to see you personally live, work, love, minister, everything as if you are doing it directly for the God of the universe. I want to see you soar with eagles and have the blessing of God touch every area of your life. I care about you that much. I really do.
Because I care for you and I also care for Every Jr High student that we have the ability to influence, all of us need to have the same spirit of excellence at AMPED. That means creativity, work ethic, passion, commitment and discipline. If I have been given responsibility for our Jr High students, I have to hear from God concerning this ministry and then be a good steward of what He has told me, what we have been given, and with every leader and student involved. That goes for you too. When you come, I want you to soar with eagles and be challenged by what we do and how we do it. How will we do it? My goal is that we do everything as unto the Lord and with a spirit of excellence.
How does this flesh out? Be committed and responsible. If there is a certain time we need to do something, on time is 5 minutes too late. If there is a task to be carried out, make sure it is done completely. If there is something we can volunteer for, be the first to offer. I really hope you get the picture. We are serving our Lord by serving these students, not Keith and not Kam.
I want you to pray about this and how it affects you. Especially if this makes you upset. If you genuinely seek the heart of God about this and you are still upset with me, maybe AMPED is not the best ministry placement for you. That's okay because I don't want you to get frustrated in ministry. I don't want to keep you from your potential in ministry. But know that AMPED will do all that it does with excellence, because God deserves no less.
I hope that in this blog entry, you have heard my heart. I really want to make an impact for the kingdom when it comes to Jr High students and their families. We cannot operate at our fullest potential without excellence, and if no excellence, we cannot expect God to pick up our slack.
I am very excited and more passionate about ministry right now than I have been for a good while. I believe we have been given a huge responsibility with Jr High students and parents trusting us every week when they show up to AMPED. But there have been things that have plagued AMPED ever since I have been a part of it, even as a volunteer.
Have you ever heard the saying that 20% of the people do 80% of the work? Usually the 20% get bitter and burned out and the 80% never think that there is anything to be worried about because they do not operate out of a spirit of excellence; usually because they have never been challenged to have that spirit of excellence.
Let me ask you, Is God excellent? Look at this:
Phil 4:8 Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.NLT
Why do we need to think about these things? I believe one reason is because if we focus on things that are excellent, it will produce a motive and spirit of excellence in us. Operating with a spirit of excellence prevents us from doing it half way, or just "getting by". Ask yourself this, does God do everything with excellence? If He does, why shouldn't we? Especially when it comes to doing His work!
1 Cor 15:58-16:1
58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work , for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
NLT
Gal 6:4-5
4 Be sure to do what you should, for then you will enjoy the personal satisfaction of having done your work well, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct. NLT
Eph 6:6-86 Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. 7 Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. 8 Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. NLT
The only thing we have to worry about is being mediocre. What insures against mediocrity?
Excellence
Work ethic
Passion
Commitment
Discipline
If you notice, I put some buzzwords in there. Words that are tossed around so much that they almost lose meaning when they enter our head. Really think about them. Really think about how they affect you and if they have a hold on you. If it's worth doing, it's worth doing right.
I want your life to reflect this, no matter what you do because in all you do, you represent the Almighty. As a pastor, I concern myself with your life and all that it entails. I feel like you have given me that right because you have enlisted yourself and your work in an area of ministry that God has entrusted me with. I want to see you personally live, work, love, minister, everything as if you are doing it directly for the God of the universe. I want to see you soar with eagles and have the blessing of God touch every area of your life. I care about you that much. I really do.
Because I care for you and I also care for Every Jr High student that we have the ability to influence, all of us need to have the same spirit of excellence at AMPED. That means creativity, work ethic, passion, commitment and discipline. If I have been given responsibility for our Jr High students, I have to hear from God concerning this ministry and then be a good steward of what He has told me, what we have been given, and with every leader and student involved. That goes for you too. When you come, I want you to soar with eagles and be challenged by what we do and how we do it. How will we do it? My goal is that we do everything as unto the Lord and with a spirit of excellence.
How does this flesh out? Be committed and responsible. If there is a certain time we need to do something, on time is 5 minutes too late. If there is a task to be carried out, make sure it is done completely. If there is something we can volunteer for, be the first to offer. I really hope you get the picture. We are serving our Lord by serving these students, not Keith and not Kam.
I want you to pray about this and how it affects you. Especially if this makes you upset. If you genuinely seek the heart of God about this and you are still upset with me, maybe AMPED is not the best ministry placement for you. That's okay because I don't want you to get frustrated in ministry. I don't want to keep you from your potential in ministry. But know that AMPED will do all that it does with excellence, because God deserves no less.
I hope that in this blog entry, you have heard my heart. I really want to make an impact for the kingdom when it comes to Jr High students and their families. We cannot operate at our fullest potential without excellence, and if no excellence, we cannot expect God to pick up our slack.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Greatness
It's a great day.
I was praying for you guys this morning. I want to encourage you to "not grow weary in doing good". God has given us a very distinct job, and deep inside we know what it is. I mean personally I know what God wants ME to do. Although I will admit there have been many times I have struggled with that concept. Times in my life, seasons, that I felt I didn't have a clue what my next step was. I felt that when I prayed, He didn't answer me or I could not hear. Now when people tell me that they don't know what they are supposed to do, I can't help but think, "what wakes you up in the morning?" I got that from my good friend Rich. But what are you passionate about? Some of us haven't had passion in our step for a long time. We can remember back when we were passionate about something, but that somehow has been left behind and now we are ironically hungry for passion. We need purpose. I want to be here to help walk you to your passion and purpose and introduce you and see the two of you shake hands and begin down that path that God created for you even before you were born.
That brings me to another thought. Seasons.
You may say, "Keith, I know what I'm passionate about, but this is a weird season for me because the doors I want open are all closed." We all go through seasons where the Lord may have to back us up (insert the beeping noise here) and help us re-evaluate eveything. There is something about the winds of change that can leave us with a cold chill of uncertainty. But if we cover ourselves in the Father's arms and know that he is in charge of ALL of our steps, that faith will keep us warm. Remember, we will always go through seasons, but always keep them in perspective and surrender to the Father to learn what ever we need to, no matter how hard it is or no matter what we have to give up.
Prov 3:11-12
11 My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, 12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves,as a father the son he delights in. NIV
All of that leads me to my last thought as I was praying for you this morning. Be sure of the calling He has given you. Don't doubt what you know in your heart. Rest assured God has placed His purpose in you.
2 Peter 1:10
10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. NIV
God is currently doing a great work in all of you. Be prepared for greatness and willing to let it happen to you and through you.
It's a great day.
I was praying for you guys this morning. I want to encourage you to "not grow weary in doing good". God has given us a very distinct job, and deep inside we know what it is. I mean personally I know what God wants ME to do. Although I will admit there have been many times I have struggled with that concept. Times in my life, seasons, that I felt I didn't have a clue what my next step was. I felt that when I prayed, He didn't answer me or I could not hear. Now when people tell me that they don't know what they are supposed to do, I can't help but think, "what wakes you up in the morning?" I got that from my good friend Rich. But what are you passionate about? Some of us haven't had passion in our step for a long time. We can remember back when we were passionate about something, but that somehow has been left behind and now we are ironically hungry for passion. We need purpose. I want to be here to help walk you to your passion and purpose and introduce you and see the two of you shake hands and begin down that path that God created for you even before you were born.
That brings me to another thought. Seasons.
You may say, "Keith, I know what I'm passionate about, but this is a weird season for me because the doors I want open are all closed." We all go through seasons where the Lord may have to back us up (insert the beeping noise here) and help us re-evaluate eveything. There is something about the winds of change that can leave us with a cold chill of uncertainty. But if we cover ourselves in the Father's arms and know that he is in charge of ALL of our steps, that faith will keep us warm. Remember, we will always go through seasons, but always keep them in perspective and surrender to the Father to learn what ever we need to, no matter how hard it is or no matter what we have to give up.
Prov 3:11-12
11 My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, 12 because the LORD disciplines those he loves,as a father the son he delights in. NIV
All of that leads me to my last thought as I was praying for you this morning. Be sure of the calling He has given you. Don't doubt what you know in your heart. Rest assured God has placed His purpose in you.
2 Peter 1:10
10 Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. NIV
God is currently doing a great work in all of you. Be prepared for greatness and willing to let it happen to you and through you.
It's a great day.
Boldness: You have it in you!
Each day I come to my office and the enemy tries to fool me into thinking that if I show grace, peace and the Lord's love to others that it makes me soft. WRONG! The Lord wants us to boldly exhibit these traits.
You see, it takes boldness to go into the dark world and illuminate it with what the Lord has deposited in our hearts.
Be transparent.
Be bold.
Be who He designed you to be.
1 Peter 4:10-11, "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."
You see, it takes boldness to go into the dark world and illuminate it with what the Lord has deposited in our hearts.
Be transparent.
Be bold.
Be who He designed you to be.
1 Peter 4:10-11, "As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Start your engines!
Ladies and gentlemen, are you ready? That question is asked of us a lot these days. Funny thing is, I can't recall a time that God ever asked it. I'm sure He has said to Get Ready, but I don't think he ever asked.
2007 went into the books as a great year for AMPED. Think about all the great things that happened in students lives, and even in your own life. As great as '07 was, I am anticipating and claiming '08 to be exponentially better. Not that '07 wasn't good, but God is progressive and he rewards our faith. Think about it, God is good. He just is. I believe He has spoken several things about '08, and I choose to believe Him. In Genesis when God told Abram about his future, "Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith." Abram had no reason to doubt.
Let me challenge you guys. For the next 341 days, pray for extravagance. Pray for the things that are outside your reach. Think of what would be great, and then go further when you pray. Even if you can't see it, that's okay, because it's not up to you. Take your strength and limitations out of the way and then ask the Father. Let it come from a place of love and desire for students, leaders, parents, families, and most of all God.
I'm not gonna ask you if you're ready, because ready or not, here it comes!
2007 went into the books as a great year for AMPED. Think about all the great things that happened in students lives, and even in your own life. As great as '07 was, I am anticipating and claiming '08 to be exponentially better. Not that '07 wasn't good, but God is progressive and he rewards our faith. Think about it, God is good. He just is. I believe He has spoken several things about '08, and I choose to believe Him. In Genesis when God told Abram about his future, "Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith." Abram had no reason to doubt.
Let me challenge you guys. For the next 341 days, pray for extravagance. Pray for the things that are outside your reach. Think of what would be great, and then go further when you pray. Even if you can't see it, that's okay, because it's not up to you. Take your strength and limitations out of the way and then ask the Father. Let it come from a place of love and desire for students, leaders, parents, families, and most of all God.
I'm not gonna ask you if you're ready, because ready or not, here it comes!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
You have favor
ˈfā-vər: (1): friendly regard shown toward another especially by a superior (2): approving consideration or attention : approbation b: partiality carchaic : leniency
That is one of Merriam-Webster's definition of favor. What does the bible have to say on the topic of favor for us? In Psalm 30:5 it reads, "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." (NKJV) The NASB version reads, "...His favor is for a lifetime", the Message version reads, "...but across a lifetime there is only love", the NCV reads, "...but His kindness lasts for a lifetime"
A friend and I were talking about favor recently, God had shown my friend that we don't have to ask for favor, we already have favor with Him. His favor is how how He loves us, how he shows his kindness and mercy to us.
Walk in His favor today.
That is one of Merriam-Webster's definition of favor. What does the bible have to say on the topic of favor for us? In Psalm 30:5 it reads, "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." (NKJV) The NASB version reads, "...His favor is for a lifetime", the Message version reads, "...but across a lifetime there is only love", the NCV reads, "...but His kindness lasts for a lifetime"
A friend and I were talking about favor recently, God had shown my friend that we don't have to ask for favor, we already have favor with Him. His favor is how how He loves us, how he shows his kindness and mercy to us.
Walk in His favor today.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Blessed
Jer 17:7-8 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit." (NKJV)
This is one of my favorite verses in the bible because it always reminds me that I don't have to rely on my own reserves of strength and energy. We have an unlimited source of wisdom, strength, comfort and joy.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me today and impressed on my heart that we have leaders that are experiencing a dry season that has drained them of joy and strength. Please know that I pray for you daily that you will have provision, an overabundance of joy, and peace.
Tap into the deep waters of the Lord and experience His love for you today.
Love you guys,
James
This is one of my favorite verses in the bible because it always reminds me that I don't have to rely on my own reserves of strength and energy. We have an unlimited source of wisdom, strength, comfort and joy.
The Holy Spirit spoke to me today and impressed on my heart that we have leaders that are experiencing a dry season that has drained them of joy and strength. Please know that I pray for you daily that you will have provision, an overabundance of joy, and peace.
Tap into the deep waters of the Lord and experience His love for you today.
Love you guys,
James
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!
Hello all, it is a beautiful, sunny yet cold weekend. The Cowboys are not playing the Cheeseheads today (12 years and counting with no playoff wins) but the Giants get to play in the frigid temps of Lambeau field on Sunday. That isn't important for Sunday but the next few items are important to those of us serving at AMPED.
AMPED Sunday Nights at NRH
We appreciate all the efforts and sacrifices each of you makes to be part of AMPED on a weekly basis. We wanted to share some housekeeping items about Sunday nights and some changes that will be rolling out over the next few weeks.
Mark your calendars! Saturday February 9th we will be having our Access Group Leaders Training. The training is required for everyone that is a past, current or hopes to be an Access Group Leader. It will be held from 8:30am to 12:00p noon at the Gateway Church Administrative offices. Breakfast will be provided. Please come into the main office entrance and someone will be there to guide you to the training room. Please email if for some reason you will be unable to attend.
Love you guys, see you Sunday night!
AMPED Sunday Nights at NRH
We appreciate all the efforts and sacrifices each of you makes to be part of AMPED on a weekly basis. We wanted to share some housekeeping items about Sunday nights and some changes that will be rolling out over the next few weeks.
- Sunday Night Pre-Service Leaders meeting-We apologize that this time (5:00pm to 5:25pm) has been so chaotic and hectic since we moved to NRH. To streamline and make this time more effective, we ask that all leaders ensure that they are in the Great Room (access is from the Chat Room it is also used as a classroom for the 5th graders on the weekends and for 8th grade girls during access groups) at 5:00pm sharp. We want to be able to share a word from the Lord with you and run through the night's activities. This meeting is more important than any other activities that we might have going on during that time if you are in the building.
- Area Assignment and Rotation-We are working on a plan to rotate all leaders through the various areas of NRH so that you don't get bored with your current assignment, allow you to work in other areas on Sunday nights, and to ensure we have everyone where we need them to be so things run smoothly with the students on Sunday nights. This also applies to the VIP room...
- VIP Room-We didn't really give a great explanation for the purpose of the VIP room and who should be in there. The VIP room is our way of welcoming our first time visitors and the friends that may have brought them to AMPED. They get to meet with Pastor Kam and Pastor Keith, get some food and a gift from us. We will have a team lead for this area (just like in other areas) and several people assigned to help with setup, running this area and takedown. Please understand that if you are not on the rotation list to be in VIP, we need you in your assigned area for the night.
Mark your calendars! Saturday February 9th we will be having our Access Group Leaders Training. The training is required for everyone that is a past, current or hopes to be an Access Group Leader. It will be held from 8:30am to 12:00p noon at the Gateway Church Administrative offices. Breakfast will be provided. Please come into the main office entrance and someone will be there to guide you to the training room. Please email if for some reason you will be unable to attend.
Love you guys, see you Sunday night!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Serving...
Happy New Year AMPED leaders new and old! With a new year always comes the inevitable resolutions, goal setting and vision casting. I used to always set some attainable resolutions and some resolutions that were entirely beyond my reach. I have a friend that sets specific, attainable goals each year. This person writes them down, seals them in an envelope and doesn't look at them until after the next new year. While both methods may benefit each person to a point, there are some flaws with goal setting in these ways. Neither keep the goals in front of you each and every day so that you are challenged to evaluate how you are doing in reaching said goals.
After attending the final night of the FiRST conference last night, I have to say that my spirit was stirred in mighty ways. The Lord spoke so clearly and plainly to me last night about so many things but the one thing that He drilled right into my core was the need have very clear, plainly written goals for 2008 and beyond for the leaders at AMPED. The scripture that Pastor Willie George, affectionately known to many as "Gospel Bill", spoke from was Habakkuk 2:2, Then the Lord answered me and said: "Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it."
Keith has graciously asked me to contribute to the AMPED leaders blog specifically in the area of leadership development. That is just a fancy way of saying that he recognizes my burden for the current and future leaders of AMPED. My role is to serve YOU as you serve our students, their families, each other and our new and future leaders.
I truly can say there is no greater reward in life and in heaven than when God's people are served by His people. With that said, I wanted to share some goals and vision for you as we begin this new year.
Become REAL servant leaders
The term "servant leaders" is almost overused in not only the church but in the business world as well. What does this really look like for us in a REAL daily sense? Simply put, a servant leader puts the needs of others ahead of their own needs, position and place.
-Submission: Submit yourself to the vision of reaching students and their families for the Lord as Jesus was submitted to his Father's vision John 6:38
-Compassion: Seek the Father's heart in order to gain His love and burden for students and their families. Luke 4:18
-Humility: Strive for Jesus' model of humility as demonstrated in John 13:1-7. No task or need is beneath us as leaders, there may be a delay in reward on earth for humble actions but the heavenly reward is much greater
Duplicate yourselves
It isn't enought to just pray for more leaders, we must pray specifically for leaders that will not only have the burden on their hearts to minister to students but will also fill a need we have at AMPED. John 15:14-17 speaks about raising up new leaders and setting them out to reach others.
Keith told me the other day that God had spoken to him about not only asking for what we need but for what we want.
I want leaders that want to develop relationships with students by leading access groups.
I want leaders that can help Keith, Kam, Brittney and Rich follow-up with new students and students that have been absent.
I want leaders that can provide altar ministry.
I want leaders that can help secure our building to protect our students
I want leaders that can help with our drama team.
I want leaders that will lead home/fusion groups
I want leaders that will run our VIP room for new students and their families
I want leaders that are passionate for reaching this generation
Pray specifically that the Lord will set up that divine appointment with that future leader or that He reveals the leader within someone that is a friend or family member. I know that the reach of AMPED will extend this year and bring so many students that need either a relationship with Father or a deeper relationship with Father. This means we need help. It is easy for them to get started with us by either emailing Brittney or coming by to check out a service on Sunday nights at NRH.
Let's focus on these goals and vision we have for AMPED leaders this year. I am positive that God will outpour a blessing on this ministry in both increased students reached and increases in the number of leaders that will be available to reach these students.
I am honored to serve you. Don't hesitate to reach out to me with needs, questions, ideas or just to chat.
Blessings,
James R.
After attending the final night of the FiRST conference last night, I have to say that my spirit was stirred in mighty ways. The Lord spoke so clearly and plainly to me last night about so many things but the one thing that He drilled right into my core was the need have very clear, plainly written goals for 2008 and beyond for the leaders at AMPED. The scripture that Pastor Willie George, affectionately known to many as "Gospel Bill", spoke from was Habakkuk 2:2, Then the Lord answered me and said: "Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it."
Keith has graciously asked me to contribute to the AMPED leaders blog specifically in the area of leadership development. That is just a fancy way of saying that he recognizes my burden for the current and future leaders of AMPED. My role is to serve YOU as you serve our students, their families, each other and our new and future leaders.
I truly can say there is no greater reward in life and in heaven than when God's people are served by His people. With that said, I wanted to share some goals and vision for you as we begin this new year.
Become REAL servant leaders
The term "servant leaders" is almost overused in not only the church but in the business world as well. What does this really look like for us in a REAL daily sense? Simply put, a servant leader puts the needs of others ahead of their own needs, position and place.
-Submission: Submit yourself to the vision of reaching students and their families for the Lord as Jesus was submitted to his Father's vision John 6:38
-Compassion: Seek the Father's heart in order to gain His love and burden for students and their families. Luke 4:18
-Humility: Strive for Jesus' model of humility as demonstrated in John 13:1-7. No task or need is beneath us as leaders, there may be a delay in reward on earth for humble actions but the heavenly reward is much greater
Duplicate yourselves
It isn't enought to just pray for more leaders, we must pray specifically for leaders that will not only have the burden on their hearts to minister to students but will also fill a need we have at AMPED. John 15:14-17 speaks about raising up new leaders and setting them out to reach others.
Keith told me the other day that God had spoken to him about not only asking for what we need but for what we want.
I want leaders that want to develop relationships with students by leading access groups.
I want leaders that can help Keith, Kam, Brittney and Rich follow-up with new students and students that have been absent.
I want leaders that can provide altar ministry.
I want leaders that can help secure our building to protect our students
I want leaders that can help with our drama team.
I want leaders that will lead home/fusion groups
I want leaders that will run our VIP room for new students and their families
I want leaders that are passionate for reaching this generation
Pray specifically that the Lord will set up that divine appointment with that future leader or that He reveals the leader within someone that is a friend or family member. I know that the reach of AMPED will extend this year and bring so many students that need either a relationship with Father or a deeper relationship with Father. This means we need help. It is easy for them to get started with us by either emailing Brittney or coming by to check out a service on Sunday nights at NRH.
Let's focus on these goals and vision we have for AMPED leaders this year. I am positive that God will outpour a blessing on this ministry in both increased students reached and increases in the number of leaders that will be available to reach these students.
I am honored to serve you. Don't hesitate to reach out to me with needs, questions, ideas or just to chat.
Blessings,
James R.
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