I'm now officially... um... between jobs for the next fortnight with the last few days absorbed by planning the services on my last Sunday and packing 14 boxes of stuff from my old office.
Here are my favourite posts from last year...
Here are the guest posts I got published on MorethenDodgeBall
Youth ministry: Job, profession or craft?
The secret to cracking the tough nuts
Bible bits
Ministry Mutiny musings
Come, Go, Come
Brestfeeding adults (a guest post by Liam)
Kony Questions
Hanna Cate (definitely my most exciting post!)
Choosing Hagar
Easter Bible Bits
Criticism from Mr X?
Should you lie to your parents to go to church?
Could vs should
How to respond when a Christian leader falls
Why child protection matters
Do you have to remember it all?
What if it were Hanna?
Church service evaluating?
Church & Sunday morning sex
Gay Marriage: We do
Porn doesn't know your name (the post that resulted in 600 hits in an hour)
Instigate the Benoit procedure?
Tom's take on camp speaking 1, 2, 3 & the takeaway
Before you walk that aisle
Virgin kiss
Sex spiel
Finger condoms and porn (this is the post which resulted in my blog being blocked from my church computer)
Safe or less risky?
Anonymous questions
Is the church dead?
Why we're not baptising our daughter
You may now kiss the Messiah???
The ladies you can cry over
Repetitive lessons
Help! I've got a work experience student for a week!
Work experience wisdom
Christmas Bible Bits
When I look back over 2012 one thing became quickly apparent.
I wrote about sex.
A lot.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Christmas Bible Bits
At Easter I
posted the series of posts I did on Tiny Bible
Bits leading up to Easter on the seven sayings of Jesus on the cross.
These are the musings I've written over the last few weeks
leading up to Christmas. Enjoy...
Matthew 1:1, 3, 5, 6, 16 – This is the genealogy of Jesus
the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:… Judah the father of Perez
and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar,… Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was
Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth,… David was the father of
Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife,… and Jacob the father of Joseph,
the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the
Messiah.
Matthew 1 paints the rich tapestry from which the Saviour of the entire world would come.
Tamar - Slept with her Father-in-law.
Rahab – Prostitute.
Ruth - Foreigner
Uriah’s wife - Adulteress
Mary - Virgin
All of them women.
In the eyes of first century Jews Jesus had some skeletons hiding within his genealogy.
Yet Matthew chose to include them at the start of his gospel.
These women remind us that God includes those who might be viewed as undesirable.
These women remind us that God can, and does, use those from all walks of life.
Matthew 1 paints the rich tapestry from which the Saviour of the entire world would come.
Tamar - Slept with her Father-in-law.
Rahab – Prostitute.
Ruth - Foreigner
Uriah’s wife - Adulteress
Mary - Virgin
All of them women.
In the eyes of first century Jews Jesus had some skeletons hiding within his genealogy.
Yet Matthew chose to include them at the start of his gospel.
These women remind us that God includes those who might be viewed as undesirable.
These women remind us that God can, and does, use those from all walks of life.
Matthew 1:21-22 – “She will give birth to a son, and you
are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their
sins.” All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the
prophet:
I read last week that candy canes are hard to represent the firmness of God’s promises.
Whether or not this is factual for a candy cane is debatable (the Internet told me therefore it MUST be true!), but Matthew’s account of the Christmas story reminds us that it's true for God’s plan of salvation.
The where, when, who, why and how of Jesus’ birth were no accident. They were all part of what God started many years prior.
Do you just read the same familiar parts of the bible?
Get to know the Old Testament. The whole Old Testament. Read the prophets. Learn about their background and how they fit into the New Testament.
Within their pages are fascinating accounts of God revealing who He is, what He was doing at the time and what He plans to do in the future.
As you delve into these, often neglected, portions of the bible you will gain a wider understanding of the story God has unveiled, is still weaving and is still to unfold.
I read last week that candy canes are hard to represent the firmness of God’s promises.
Whether or not this is factual for a candy cane is debatable (the Internet told me therefore it MUST be true!), but Matthew’s account of the Christmas story reminds us that it's true for God’s plan of salvation.
The where, when, who, why and how of Jesus’ birth were no accident. They were all part of what God started many years prior.
Do you just read the same familiar parts of the bible?
Get to know the Old Testament. The whole Old Testament. Read the prophets. Learn about their background and how they fit into the New Testament.
Within their pages are fascinating accounts of God revealing who He is, what He was doing at the time and what He plans to do in the future.
As you delve into these, often neglected, portions of the bible you will gain a wider understanding of the story God has unveiled, is still weaving and is still to unfold.
Matthew 2:3-5 – When King Herod heard this he was
disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the
people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah
was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the
prophet has written:
For the second Tiny Bible Bit in a row the passage has ended with a reference to a Messianic Old Testament prophecy.
In light of their current political situation, the majority of first-century Jews would have been familiar with these prophecies.
And yet many of then missed the signs.
Do we do a similar thing to the chief priests and teachers of the law?
Are we aware of what the bible says but blind to what God is actually doing in the world?
Ask God to open your eyes to the places where He is involved.
If those in Jerusalem had prayed a similar prayer then they may have gone with the Magi to see the promised New-born King.
For the second Tiny Bible Bit in a row the passage has ended with a reference to a Messianic Old Testament prophecy.
In light of their current political situation, the majority of first-century Jews would have been familiar with these prophecies.
And yet many of then missed the signs.
Do we do a similar thing to the chief priests and teachers of the law?
Are we aware of what the bible says but blind to what God is actually doing in the world?
Ask God to open your eyes to the places where He is involved.
If those in Jerusalem had prayed a similar prayer then they may have gone with the Magi to see the promised New-born King.
Matthew 2:11,16 – On coming to the house, they saw the
child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.
Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold,
frankincense and myrrh… When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the
Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and
its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time
he had learned from the Magi.
Nativity scenes are everywhere.
And they’re all, without exception, wrong.
The mistakes they hold indicate that we’re more familiar with the Christmas story than we actually are.
We think we can fill in the following gaps…
Mary rode a ____ to Bethlehem. There were _____ wise men. The magi visited Jesus _________.
Mary POSSIBLY rode a donkey. The gospels do not say.
There COULD have been three wise men. All we’re told is the number of gifts they brought along.
The magi came to a house anywhere up to two years after the birth of Jesus (thus the order of Herod to murder all boys under two).
Take some time out to actually read the Christmas accounts in Matthew and Luke.
You might be surprised what is, and is not, included.
Turns out the Little Drummer Boy doesn't make an appearance…
Nativity scenes are everywhere.
And they’re all, without exception, wrong.
The mistakes they hold indicate that we’re more familiar with the Christmas story than we actually are.
We think we can fill in the following gaps…
Mary rode a ____ to Bethlehem. There were _____ wise men. The magi visited Jesus _________.
Mary POSSIBLY rode a donkey. The gospels do not say.
There COULD have been three wise men. All we’re told is the number of gifts they brought along.
The magi came to a house anywhere up to two years after the birth of Jesus (thus the order of Herod to murder all boys under two).
Take some time out to actually read the Christmas accounts in Matthew and Luke.
You might be surprised what is, and is not, included.
Turns out the Little Drummer Boy doesn't make an appearance…
Luke 2:10-11 – But the angel said to them, “Do not be
afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah,
the Lord.”
Good news…
Great joy…
For all people.
This is the message of Christmas.
Good news…
Great joy…
For all people.
This is the message of Christmas.
Luke 2:16-18, 20 – So they hurried off and found Mary and
Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they
spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all
who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them… The shepherds
returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and
seen, which were just as they had been told.
When the shepherds personally encountered the Christmas story they spread the word.
The told others what God had revealed to them.
They told others how God had entered into human history.
They told others how they had met Jesus.
This is the appropriate response to encountering Jesus.
Who are you going to tell about your experience of meeting Jesus this Christmas?
When the shepherds personally encountered the Christmas story they spread the word.
The told others what God had revealed to them.
They told others how God had entered into human history.
They told others how they had met Jesus.
This is the appropriate response to encountering Jesus.
Who are you going to tell about your experience of meeting Jesus this Christmas?
John 1:14 – The Word became flesh and made his dwelling
among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came
from the Father, full of grace and truth.
God did not charge in with an army.
Jesus did not invade with power.
He did not come clothed in wealth and prestige.
When God came into the world, He came in humility.
He came to display grace and truth to a world in need of both.
As another Christmas slips by, remember the impact of the incarnation.
Remember the effect of God taking on flesh and dwelling amongst His creation.
The Lord of all entered the world in order to show a life dedicated to the Kingdom of God, bringing together Creator/creation and allowing us to call out to a God who has intimate knowledge of our sufferings and temptations.
God did not charge in with an army.
Jesus did not invade with power.
He did not come clothed in wealth and prestige.
When God came into the world, He came in humility.
He came to display grace and truth to a world in need of both.
As another Christmas slips by, remember the impact of the incarnation.
Remember the effect of God taking on flesh and dwelling amongst His creation.
The Lord of all entered the world in order to show a life dedicated to the Kingdom of God, bringing together Creator/creation and allowing us to call out to a God who has intimate knowledge of our sufferings and temptations.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Not the day for aerobatics
Funerals.
Weddings.
Easter.
Christmas.
When people attend one of these services then they have a set of expectations.
I know a minister who mentioned that these were significant ministry opportunities, but quite difficult to totally stuff up.
The reason?
If you cater to the expectations of the majority, hitting all the high points, then they should run smoothly.
So... Don't wander too far from the well-trodden path.
For funerals? God is with those who grieve and pain and death is not a part of God's original plan for the world.
Weddings? God's love for all is represented through the partnership created through a marriage and He wants to be a part of the union.
Easter? God came into the world to restore the relationship between humanity and Himself. For God, this was not cheap nor easy.
Christmas? God reveals Himself clearest and through the incarnation, and through the life, teachings, death and resurrection of Jesus we have access to Our Father.
Don't use the chance to clearly present the gospel and, instead, twist in the plot of the latest movie blockbuster.
The sermon title for Christmas 2012 should not be "The gospel according to The Hobbit."
Weddings.
Easter.
Christmas.
When people attend one of these services then they have a set of expectations.
I know a minister who mentioned that these were significant ministry opportunities, but quite difficult to totally stuff up.
The reason?
If you cater to the expectations of the majority, hitting all the high points, then they should run smoothly.
So... Don't wander too far from the well-trodden path.
For funerals? God is with those who grieve and pain and death is not a part of God's original plan for the world.
Weddings? God's love for all is represented through the partnership created through a marriage and He wants to be a part of the union.
Easter? God came into the world to restore the relationship between humanity and Himself. For God, this was not cheap nor easy.
Christmas? God reveals Himself clearest and through the incarnation, and through the life, teachings, death and resurrection of Jesus we have access to Our Father.
Don't use the chance to clearly present the gospel and, instead, twist in the plot of the latest movie blockbuster.
The sermon title for Christmas 2012 should not be "The gospel according to The Hobbit."
Saturday, December 22, 2012
The final line of the job description
Fix light fixtures.
Become pseudo-competent in working the sound desk and photocopier, fixing problems as they occur.
Monitor and maintain the churches social media presence.
Every job description has one fateful line which goes something along the lines of "and any other miscellaneous duties which arise."
Churches are no different.
And when you're typing up poems written by a homeless guy you just need to remember that every job has hidden tasks which fall into "miscellaneous... but important."
Become pseudo-competent in working the sound desk and photocopier, fixing problems as they occur.
Monitor and maintain the churches social media presence.
Every job description has one fateful line which goes something along the lines of "and any other miscellaneous duties which arise."
Churches are no different.
And when you're typing up poems written by a homeless guy you just need to remember that every job has hidden tasks which fall into "miscellaneous... but important."
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Whispered exhortations
This past Sunday my church put on a farewell morning tea for me (even though I don't officially leave until the end of the month, they wanted Christmas to be about Jesus!). During my speech I mentioned a common, but wonderful, thing that lurks within churches.
The muttered word of encouragement.
The way it normally works is that a person, usually a part of the grey-haired brigade, pulls you aside quickly and drops a dollop of verbal support. It's not a big deal and it's normally over in an instant.
BUT... This is what made these blokes so great at my home church.
I've previously mentioned that I'll ask every kid how their week was whenever they arrive at a youth event. The payoff usually comes once you've asked the question dozens of times.
For the muttered word of encouragement the payoff ratio is similar.
Most Sunday's the exhortation will be appreciated but not dwelt upon.
But every so often it will be one of the only things which will make you think you're making a difference...
The muttered word of encouragement.
The way it normally works is that a person, usually a part of the grey-haired brigade, pulls you aside quickly and drops a dollop of verbal support. It's not a big deal and it's normally over in an instant.
BUT... This is what made these blokes so great at my home church.
I've previously mentioned that I'll ask every kid how their week was whenever they arrive at a youth event. The payoff usually comes once you've asked the question dozens of times.
For the muttered word of encouragement the payoff ratio is similar.
Most Sunday's the exhortation will be appreciated but not dwelt upon.
But every so often it will be one of the only things which will make you think you're making a difference...
Monday, December 17, 2012
If I had to empty the piggy-bank?
I don't really use purchased resources. I have nothing against them, and while they certainly have a time and place, I tend to create my own (or at worst highly modify an existing resource).
But what if I HAD to spend money to create a youth ministry resource bank?
This is what I would spend it on...
I would get these single-lesson studies for emergency scripture lessons (cepstore.com.au/c/108/photocopiable-leaders-resources).
I would get these apologetic resources (cepstore.com.au/c/81/apologetics-evangelism).
For teaching material I would look at youthministry360.com and simplyyouthministry.com/resources.html
For a curriculum I would buy the Live Curriculum series which applies.
Whilst these might cost a church a few thousand dollars, they would see anywhere through the rest of it's youth-ministry-life.
But what if I HAD to spend money to create a youth ministry resource bank?
This is what I would spend it on...
I would get these single-lesson studies for emergency scripture lessons (cepstore.com.au/c/108/photocopiable-leaders-resources).
I would get these apologetic resources (cepstore.com.au/c/81/apologetics-evangelism).
For teaching material I would look at youthministry360.com and simplyyouthministry.com/resources.html
For a curriculum I would buy the Live Curriculum series which applies.
Whilst these might cost a church a few thousand dollars, they would see anywhere through the rest of it's youth-ministry-life.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Things that make you go...
I remember doing a small group study based on the idea that there will be times in everyone's life when their mind will naturally turn to God.
Sometimes these God-moments can be triggered by the negative...
Terrorist attacks.
School shootings.
Cancer diagnoses.
Car accidents.
Suicides.
Other faith stirring moments can be triggered by positive events such as a wedding or a birth.
The takeaway from the study was for Christians to be alongside non-believers, living their life in such a manner, that their friends and workmates can naturally talk to you about their faith.
In light of some events of the last week, not just confined to events in America, I think there's another reaction to some of the events listed above.
You're just a little more thankful for what you have and you hug your family a little tighter...
Sometimes these God-moments can be triggered by the negative...
Terrorist attacks.
School shootings.
Cancer diagnoses.
Car accidents.
Suicides.
Other faith stirring moments can be triggered by positive events such as a wedding or a birth.
The takeaway from the study was for Christians to be alongside non-believers, living their life in such a manner, that their friends and workmates can naturally talk to you about their faith.
In light of some events of the last week, not just confined to events in America, I think there's another reaction to some of the events listed above.
You're just a little more thankful for what you have and you hug your family a little tighter...
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Help! I've got a work experience student for a week!
So God created mankind
in his own image… Genesis 1:27a
For seven days you have a bright-eyed teen to craft into
your own image…
An apprentice who will glean the nuggets of wisdom which
flow out of your mouth…
A Padawan to pass on your odd quirks and hear all your bad
jokes…
This is the point of having a work experience student with
you.
Isn't it???
A fortnight ago I had a year 10 student from the local high
school alongside me.
I couldn't recommend it highly enough because it was a great
week.
And over the last week I learnt one thing. Having a work
experience student with you is not primarily about youth ministry.
It is about helping the young person find their sweet spot
(If you’re the kind of Christian who chiefly plays cards, board games or Call
of Duty, the sweet spot is a sporting term you can read about at
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_spot_(sports)).
Having a work experience student with you is, at the core,
about helping them discern who God made them to be (know themselves) and what
He might be forming them to do (know their call).
Over the last week I tried to achieve this in three ways.
First, I wanted to student to determine his spiritual gifts,
discover his personality type, examine his history, identify his natural
abilities and work out what gives him energy. Through a series of surveys,
reflections and conversations we discerned what things he was good at and where
he might be effectively used to build up the body of Christ (in paid ministry
or as a volunteer).
Second, we read “What Matters Most” by Doug Fields (you can
get it from amazon.com for under $10), chatting about the book over lunch every
day.
Every youth minister should read this book.
And so should every mechanic, nurse, lawyer, single mother
and garbage man.
The reason? I believe the book is not just about youth
ministry. It is about knowing what is really significant and using these top
priorities to shape what you agree to do.
No matter if my work experience student decides to go into
youth ministry or another vocation, I wanted to arm him with an ability to
discern what is really important.
Third, as tempting as it was to take him water-skiing and
utilise my newly acquired golf caddie, he accompanied me everywhere during a
“normal” week (as if youth ministry ever has one!). He came to meetings - both
fun and pretty dull; he helped me write a talk (a sex talk!), being involved
from the start, implementation and in post-event dissection; he did the same
scripture lesson three times.
He caught a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes. He
saw the preparation which went into scripture lessons, church services and
youth group.
He saw that youth ministry was not just eating McDonalds and
bouncing between sugar fixes. Just like every job, ministry has parts which are
not glamorous, nor altogether enjoyable.
Sometimes, to quote my minister, you need to “eat the dead
rat.”
Sure, we did do some unusual, memorable things. We attended
worship with the Korean-speaking congregation (which none of us could
understand) and climbed the church bell tower (which neither of us had done
before).
But, if the aim this week was to shape this young man into
my youth-minister-image, then I failed.
Luckily, when you have a work experience student alongside
you for a week, this is not the aim…
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
The teacher filter
I've sat through them all.
Disorganised. Confusing. Unfocused. Unengaging. Embarrassing. Cringe worthy. Boring. Bad.
These are some of the words which have gone through my mind while enduring a combined Easter/Christmas/insert-event-here service at a school.
Now... Whilst I've also been a part of and seen some FANTASTIC services, others have been stinkers.
Sometimes I can't even begin to imagine what the kids are thinking.
But there's another audience member which the organisers of these services must take into account.
Teachers.
Often teachers are witnessing the mess of a combined service and feeling similar things which trot through my mind.
And it hurts the cause of scripture in schools.
I wonder, if those who organise combined services kept the audience at the forefront of their mind (both kids AND adults) then they would improve remarkably.
Disorganised. Confusing. Unfocused. Unengaging. Embarrassing. Cringe worthy. Boring. Bad.
These are some of the words which have gone through my mind while enduring a combined Easter/Christmas/insert-event-here service at a school.
Now... Whilst I've also been a part of and seen some FANTASTIC services, others have been stinkers.
Sometimes I can't even begin to imagine what the kids are thinking.
But there's another audience member which the organisers of these services must take into account.
Teachers.
Often teachers are witnessing the mess of a combined service and feeling similar things which trot through my mind.
And it hurts the cause of scripture in schools.
I wonder, if those who organise combined services kept the audience at the forefront of their mind (both kids AND adults) then they would improve remarkably.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Ministerial interpretation
I have a unique calling.
A special gift.
Ministerial interpretation.
Sometimes it us during a meeting.
Sometimes it is during a church service.
Occasionally it will be required whilst co-facilitating a confirmation course.
For ministers can slip into speaking Christianese.
Ministers can get so excited when describing the mystery of the trinity that they use concepts no one without a theology doctorate can follow.
Clergy can get carried away and flood the room with words in a heartbeat.
And here is where I come in.
I am not shy to ask for a clearer explanation.
I am not shy to stop someone and make sure everyone is on the same track.
I will fall on my sword and fill an awkward silence.
I will swoop in and ask the obvious, just-to-clarify-something-which-we-are-99.9%-sure-we-already-know, question on behalf of the teens.
I will interject a more age appropriate application or translate a dated illustration.
As a youth minister, sometimes I need to be an advocate for those who aren't fluent in the Christian lingo.
A special gift.
Ministerial interpretation.
Sometimes it us during a meeting.
Sometimes it is during a church service.
Occasionally it will be required whilst co-facilitating a confirmation course.
For ministers can slip into speaking Christianese.
Ministers can get so excited when describing the mystery of the trinity that they use concepts no one without a theology doctorate can follow.
Clergy can get carried away and flood the room with words in a heartbeat.
And here is where I come in.
I am not shy to ask for a clearer explanation.
I am not shy to stop someone and make sure everyone is on the same track.
I will fall on my sword and fill an awkward silence.
I will swoop in and ask the obvious, just-to-clarify-something-which-we-are-99.9%-sure-we-already-know, question on behalf of the teens.
I will interject a more age appropriate application or translate a dated illustration.
As a youth minister, sometimes I need to be an advocate for those who aren't fluent in the Christian lingo.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Before sealing the deal you should ask...
I wrote previously that interviewing for a new ministry position is like dating.
First you find out details about one another and work out if you have sufficient common interests.
If you make it past the first hurdle, then you ask the tougher questions to discover if you could share a life together.
What questions, in no specific order, should you ask before you sign on the bottom line?
What is the start date? When can I get a key?
What is the pay? Will it be paid monthly? Fortnightly?
How are raises negotiated?
What are the expected hours of work each week?
Is housing included? How about a housing allowance?
Is further study a requirement? Is there a professional learning budget?
How are holidays acquired? Do they work on a calendar or financial year?
Is there a youth ministry budget? Is it a separate line in the budget? How is it accessed? What was it spent on last year?
What office space is provided? Computer? Bookcase?
Is your mobile phone bill, or at least a portion, paid by the church?
Why have people left the church lately?
On button issues, such as women in ministry or homosexuality, what is the standing of the senior minister, staff and wider congregation? Have they been an issue in the past or currently?
What are the days off for current staff? Are they contactable on their day/s off? Is this an expectation?
What, if any, role is expected of your spouse and family?
Financially, what shape is the budget in? Are there looming issues? Is sizable chunk of income dependant upon one thing or a few people?
Are there plans for future staff or property expansion?
Are there any traditions which you should be aware of?
What, if any, ecumenical activities exist? Are there any churches who don't "play with others?"
First you find out details about one another and work out if you have sufficient common interests.
If you make it past the first hurdle, then you ask the tougher questions to discover if you could share a life together.
What questions, in no specific order, should you ask before you sign on the bottom line?
What is the start date? When can I get a key?
What is the pay? Will it be paid monthly? Fortnightly?
How are raises negotiated?
What are the expected hours of work each week?
Is housing included? How about a housing allowance?
Is further study a requirement? Is there a professional learning budget?
How are holidays acquired? Do they work on a calendar or financial year?
Is there a youth ministry budget? Is it a separate line in the budget? How is it accessed? What was it spent on last year?
What office space is provided? Computer? Bookcase?
Is your mobile phone bill, or at least a portion, paid by the church?
Why have people left the church lately?
On button issues, such as women in ministry or homosexuality, what is the standing of the senior minister, staff and wider congregation? Have they been an issue in the past or currently?
What are the days off for current staff? Are they contactable on their day/s off? Is this an expectation?
What, if any, role is expected of your spouse and family?
Financially, what shape is the budget in? Are there looming issues? Is sizable chunk of income dependant upon one thing or a few people?
Are there plans for future staff or property expansion?
Are there any traditions which you should be aware of?
What, if any, ecumenical activities exist? Are there any churches who don't "play with others?"
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Healthy, Unhealthy, Troubled
Churches.
Ministries.
Budgets.
Children.
Marriages.
They can either be classified as healthy, unhealthy or troubled.
If things are on track then it is healthy.
If things are starting to go wayward then it is unhealthy.
If problems exist and need to be rectified quickly then it is troubled.
I'm not sure how to make this the standard going forward but it's a start...
Ministries.
Budgets.
Children.
Marriages.
They can either be classified as healthy, unhealthy or troubled.
If things are on track then it is healthy.
If things are starting to go wayward then it is unhealthy.
If problems exist and need to be rectified quickly then it is troubled.
I'm not sure how to make this the standard going forward but it's a start...
Monday, December 3, 2012
Work Experience Wisdom
I imagined that there would be lengthy times of silence over the last week.
Surprisingly, there wasn't.
In fact, there were nuggets of gold scattered throughout the week. Sure, some snippets of wisdom won't change the world, but nonetheless... here's some of the wisdom dropped over the last seven days whilst I had a work experience student with me...
Sweet Spot - The whole point of the week... No matter what it is... Work to find out what God has designed you to do. Seek out your spiritual gifts and examine the way God has wired your personality. Strive to work in your sweet spot (the spot on a tennis racquet/baseball bat/cricket bat where the ball travels further because you connect in just the right spot).
Eat the dead rat - Even if you find your sweet spot and work in that field, sometimes you'll need to do things you don't want to do. Do them. Some things you need to just suck up.
Margin - Create margin in your life. Give yourself extra time to do things. If you plan everything to the exact second, then you're flirting with disaster. Less margin equals more stress.
Praxis - Think. Act. Reflect. Repeat.
Advice on dating - #1 - When you're going to pick up a female on a date don't beep when you arrive. Don't text from the car. Don't call and have her meet you out front. Knock on the door. Man up and face whomever answers the door.
#2 - Turn your phone off during dates. Don't be shy in announcing that you're giving your date undivided attention.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
When the teen above .05 walks through the door?
It's a regulation Friday night at youth group...
Fun things are planned, but nothing out of the ordinary...
Kids are starting to arrive and you're getting prepared to swing into the first game/activity...
Then a couple of teens turn up who are obviously drunk.
They aren't falling over and vomiting drunk, but it is clear that they've had a bevy.
Whilst one of the teens is a regular, the other is relatively unknown to you.
What do you do?
Without doubt, every ministry job interview will contain a tricky scenario or three.
The above situation was one I was given during my latest interview (have a mentioned that I secured a new, full-time, job for 2013???).
A few days ago I had a chat about this conundrum with the work experience student accompanying me this week.
My answer?
Immediately, I'll want to send the kid home.
There is no way I'm going to expose the other kids to these "emotional" pair of teens.
As a duty-of-care issue (my responsibility to provide a safe place physically, emotionally, relationally & spiritually), it would be irresponsible to allow them to stay.
Whilst driving him and his drunken mate away with pitchforks might be extreme, the idea did wander through my mind.
But, I also have a duty-of-care to these two tanked-up young men.
So I decided that, although I would send them home, I had to do so in a manner which ensured their safety.
Once I'd called the kids parents, if geographically possible, I would have a male leader walk the two blokes back to a house where parents are present.
If they lived too far away then I would put them in a cab with a leader, again, making sure they arrived to a supervised environment.
But the next 48 would be equally as important.
For I would contact the teen I knew on the Sunday (it would be unfair to call him hung-over on Saturday) and seek to catch up that afternoon.
And I would ask what is going on.
For no kid, I suspect, awakes on a Friday morning and decides to have a skin-full and roll up to youth group. Something must have happened.
And the company he keeps would certainly be one of the topics I would discuss.
But I neglected to add another important part of the answer for this situation.
Forgiveness.
Whilst pretty embarrassing and fairly dumb (and I've had my share of both), what this teen has done is not unforgivable. During our Sunday conversation, I would impress this to the teen and welcoming him back the next week... Without the booze.
Fun things are planned, but nothing out of the ordinary...
Kids are starting to arrive and you're getting prepared to swing into the first game/activity...
Then a couple of teens turn up who are obviously drunk.
They aren't falling over and vomiting drunk, but it is clear that they've had a bevy.
Whilst one of the teens is a regular, the other is relatively unknown to you.
What do you do?
Without doubt, every ministry job interview will contain a tricky scenario or three.
The above situation was one I was given during my latest interview (have a mentioned that I secured a new, full-time, job for 2013???).
A few days ago I had a chat about this conundrum with the work experience student accompanying me this week.
My answer?
Immediately, I'll want to send the kid home.
There is no way I'm going to expose the other kids to these "emotional" pair of teens.
As a duty-of-care issue (my responsibility to provide a safe place physically, emotionally, relationally & spiritually), it would be irresponsible to allow them to stay.
Whilst driving him and his drunken mate away with pitchforks might be extreme, the idea did wander through my mind.
But, I also have a duty-of-care to these two tanked-up young men.
So I decided that, although I would send them home, I had to do so in a manner which ensured their safety.
Once I'd called the kids parents, if geographically possible, I would have a male leader walk the two blokes back to a house where parents are present.
If they lived too far away then I would put them in a cab with a leader, again, making sure they arrived to a supervised environment.
But the next 48 would be equally as important.
For I would contact the teen I knew on the Sunday (it would be unfair to call him hung-over on Saturday) and seek to catch up that afternoon.
And I would ask what is going on.
For no kid, I suspect, awakes on a Friday morning and decides to have a skin-full and roll up to youth group. Something must have happened.
And the company he keeps would certainly be one of the topics I would discuss.
But I neglected to add another important part of the answer for this situation.
Forgiveness.
Whilst pretty embarrassing and fairly dumb (and I've had my share of both), what this teen has done is not unforgivable. During our Sunday conversation, I would impress this to the teen and welcoming him back the next week... Without the booze.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
The magic sentence
I've previously mentioned that I receive daily snippets from the mind of John Maxwell. I'm currently way, way behind.
When I do get around to listening to the backlog of bite-sized chunks of wisdom I listen out for one important term.
"This is what I know..."
This is what I'm interested in.
What the person knows.
Stories are good.
Humour is nice.
Short is preferred.
But I want to know what you've learnt about the topic.
Otherwise... Why would I listen?
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Freeing up to connect
This morning I went to church.
No surprise. I get paid to attend church.
But this morning was different.
I was with my wife and she actually got to focus on what was going on.
If you have ever taken a baby to church then you'll be aware that this is a near impossibility.
This morning, whilst making sure that things were organised for the youngsters, I took care of Hanna.
And it might come in for form of minding the child during church.
Or perhaps it is giving your partner space for a quiet time.
But I think one of the best things a parent can do for the other is free the other to connect with God.
No surprise. I get paid to attend church.
But this morning was different.
I was with my wife and she actually got to focus on what was going on.
If you have ever taken a baby to church then you'll be aware that this is a near impossibility.
This morning, whilst making sure that things were organised for the youngsters, I took care of Hanna.
And it might come in for form of minding the child during church.
Or perhaps it is giving your partner space for a quiet time.
But I think one of the best things a parent can do for the other is free the other to connect with God.
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Connecting with the old folks home
I remember one activity my youth ministry did when I was a teen.
I prefer the word remembered, but the term scared could also be appropriate.
For one old bloke had a hole in his head.
Or at least a hearty divot.
And we chatted about Agatha Christie novels for around ten minutes.
Ideally, annually, one of the school-year-based discipling groups would go to the local retirement home and chat with the oldies.
Sometimes it was awkward.
Really awkward.
At other times it was hugely rewarding.
I think every church should, where reasonable, have a connection with a nearby retirement village.
And every youth ministry should take advantage of these existing partnerships.
The reason?
The, all too often shut in and lonely, elderly get someone to talk to.
The youth are encouraged to connect with those whom society tells them to ignore.
Who knows, the youth minister could establish connections which result in the acquisition of a bus which they can borrow.
Everyone wins.
I prefer the word remembered, but the term scared could also be appropriate.
For one old bloke had a hole in his head.
Or at least a hearty divot.
And we chatted about Agatha Christie novels for around ten minutes.
Ideally, annually, one of the school-year-based discipling groups would go to the local retirement home and chat with the oldies.
Sometimes it was awkward.
Really awkward.
At other times it was hugely rewarding.
I think every church should, where reasonable, have a connection with a nearby retirement village.
And every youth ministry should take advantage of these existing partnerships.
The reason?
The, all too often shut in and lonely, elderly get someone to talk to.
The youth are encouraged to connect with those whom society tells them to ignore.
Who knows, the youth minister could establish connections which result in the acquisition of a bus which they can borrow.
Everyone wins.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
I'm a pants man
Next week I'm having a work experience student with me, doing some of the things I wrote about here, and on Friday I gave him one piece of advice.
Wear long pants whenever we are going into a school.
I've previously mentioned that I sometimes tell stories to my scripture classes. This is particularly true as the year winds down.
The reason I wear long pants?
A bloke should never wear shorts and sit in front of children, who when sitting on the floor, will be eye level with his knees (if you get where I'm going with this...)
It's just another thing, like always wearing some kind of button-up shirt and covered shoes, which are handy to know and send a useful message.
Wear long pants whenever we are going into a school.
I've previously mentioned that I sometimes tell stories to my scripture classes. This is particularly true as the year winds down.
The reason I wear long pants?
A bloke should never wear shorts and sit in front of children, who when sitting on the floor, will be eye level with his knees (if you get where I'm going with this...)
It's just another thing, like always wearing some kind of button-up shirt and covered shoes, which are handy to know and send a useful message.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Location. Location! Location?
A church with an eye catching sign (I've written about church signs, for good and bad, here, here, here and here).
On the Highway.
On an intersection where people are forced to stop and be amazed by your vibrant church.
That is the dream.
But it's not always the reality.
Some churches are in the depths of the suburbs.
They don't have a lot of traffic which passes by.
In fact, some churches can be walked past without being recognised.
Fortunately, to a large degree, each of the churches I have worked for have been highly visible.
I wonder how important it is?
What role does location play in the success of launching new ministries?
What part does location play in the attendance of "big" events?
If we live in the ideal world where our events are spread by word-of-mouth, and relationships are the glue which not only draw people in by keep them, then a grand location should be minimised.
But if a church holds an event, but no-one sees it, does it make a sound?
On the Highway.
On an intersection where people are forced to stop and be amazed by your vibrant church.
That is the dream.
But it's not always the reality.
Some churches are in the depths of the suburbs.
They don't have a lot of traffic which passes by.
In fact, some churches can be walked past without being recognised.
Fortunately, to a large degree, each of the churches I have worked for have been highly visible.
I wonder how important it is?
What role does location play in the success of launching new ministries?
What part does location play in the attendance of "big" events?
If we live in the ideal world where our events are spread by word-of-mouth, and relationships are the glue which not only draw people in by keep them, then a grand location should be minimised.
But if a church holds an event, but no-one sees it, does it make a sound?
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Best in the World!?!
Everyone wants to be #1
We look up to those who are in the gold medal position.
I've previously written about the numerous job interviews I've had since 2008 I could now add another three or four to the list.
Some interviews have resulted in me getting the position. For others, I know it's been a line-ball decision between myself and another, and in some cases, I've been told that the church "is... umm... pursuing another option."
In the world of ministry there is no reigning world champion. There are no national titles. You aren't able to declare that you're the best or the greatest or the most successful.
But I'm not sure how useful the claim would be anyway.
For the best, most talented, most charismatic, most culturally aware youth minister I have ever know is no longer working at their church. Nor are they working in any church.
In fact, as far as I can tell, he isn't even a follower of Jesus any more.
A similar story plays out with the most influential youth minister in my life.
Any church would want someone proficient with the necessary skill set to do the job well, but being the top of the youth-minister-food-chain isn't the guarantee of success like it might be in the professional world.
We look up to those who are in the gold medal position.
I've previously written about the numerous job interviews I've had since 2008 I could now add another three or four to the list.
Some interviews have resulted in me getting the position. For others, I know it's been a line-ball decision between myself and another, and in some cases, I've been told that the church "is... umm... pursuing another option."
In the world of ministry there is no reigning world champion. There are no national titles. You aren't able to declare that you're the best or the greatest or the most successful.
But I'm not sure how useful the claim would be anyway.
For the best, most talented, most charismatic, most culturally aware youth minister I have ever know is no longer working at their church. Nor are they working in any church.
In fact, as far as I can tell, he isn't even a follower of Jesus any more.
A similar story plays out with the most influential youth minister in my life.
Any church would want someone proficient with the necessary skill set to do the job well, but being the top of the youth-minister-food-chain isn't the guarantee of success like it might be in the professional world.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Report reading until...
Last night I attended a meeting. Nothing unusual about that. I do work for a church...
But I needed to arrive early in order to read the papers which were going to be discussed.
But I have a confession.
There have been times when I would skim the reports prior to a meeting. Barely skim. Glance at even.
But now I have a system which I try and enforce upon myself.
I read ever report and glean at least one question or comment which I want to make (even if I ultimately don't disclose it publicly).
The reason? If I didn't, then I'd be forced to question the value I add to the meeting and if my attendance is the best (or even decent) use of my time...
But I needed to arrive early in order to read the papers which were going to be discussed.
But I have a confession.
There have been times when I would skim the reports prior to a meeting. Barely skim. Glance at even.
But now I have a system which I try and enforce upon myself.
I read ever report and glean at least one question or comment which I want to make (even if I ultimately don't disclose it publicly).
The reason? If I didn't, then I'd be forced to question the value I add to the meeting and if my attendance is the best (or even decent) use of my time...
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Denomination domination?
As I search for my next ministry position I wonder about denominational ties and their potential, long term, consequences.
What do you do if you're attached to a denomination but they can't serve you as well as another church?
For example, if you're ordained into a denomination, are you compelled to attend a church of that denomination for the rest of your days?
If so, does this also apply for those who work for a denomination (like a chaplain or a in a regional position) but aren't connected to a congregation?
What if there's another local church which will better serve the needs of your family, especially children, than your denomination's options within a realistic geographical area? Do you need to tell anyone you're "jumping to the opposition on Sunday's?"
Chances are, these scenarios would only happen in regional centres where there's only a few churches (perhaps just one per denomination).
But surely no group would want the spiritual health of your family diminished just because one member of the clan is attached with a specific denomination. Worse still, they couldn't demand that you worship separately from them if they go elsewhere.
Can they???
What do you do if you're attached to a denomination but they can't serve you as well as another church?
For example, if you're ordained into a denomination, are you compelled to attend a church of that denomination for the rest of your days?
If so, does this also apply for those who work for a denomination (like a chaplain or a in a regional position) but aren't connected to a congregation?
What if there's another local church which will better serve the needs of your family, especially children, than your denomination's options within a realistic geographical area? Do you need to tell anyone you're "jumping to the opposition on Sunday's?"
Chances are, these scenarios would only happen in regional centres where there's only a few churches (perhaps just one per denomination).
But surely no group would want the spiritual health of your family diminished just because one member of the clan is attached with a specific denomination. Worse still, they couldn't demand that you worship separately from them if they go elsewhere.
Can they???
Monday, November 12, 2012
Repetitive lessons
Last week I spoke at the Christian lunch time group at the local high school. Afterwards, one of the quality students mentioned that the passage was one she had bumped up against multiple times over the last week.
Whilst I didn't say it out loud, I wanted to ask what God was trying to teaching her, since it may not be a coincidence that God kept placing the passage before her.
Then I remembered the story of Joseph in the Old Testament.
Tomorrow I'll be watching the second half of the Joseph VeggieTale in scripture, following up the reciprocal lesson last week.
I'll be doing the same thing on Thursday.
This is on the back of referring to Joseph during my aforementioned talk.
And doing a high school scripture lesson on him a fortnight ago.
Finally, I mentioned Joseph while answering a query about faith ensuring you a life of "happiness, health, wealth, attractiveness and popularity."
The point of the lessons on Joseph's life have been...
1 - God will not spare you from the bad stuff in life.
2 - God will be with you through the good and the bad times.
3 - God himself, through becoming incarnate, knows what it is like to be human; both the good and the bad.
4 - Thus God is able to sympathise when we cry out to Him in the tough times.
The lesson which I think God is trying to get through to me? I think number 2 is taking some time to sink in...
Whilst I didn't say it out loud, I wanted to ask what God was trying to teaching her, since it may not be a coincidence that God kept placing the passage before her.
Then I remembered the story of Joseph in the Old Testament.
Tomorrow I'll be watching the second half of the Joseph VeggieTale in scripture, following up the reciprocal lesson last week.
I'll be doing the same thing on Thursday.
This is on the back of referring to Joseph during my aforementioned talk.
And doing a high school scripture lesson on him a fortnight ago.
Finally, I mentioned Joseph while answering a query about faith ensuring you a life of "happiness, health, wealth, attractiveness and popularity."
The point of the lessons on Joseph's life have been...
1 - God will not spare you from the bad stuff in life.
2 - God will be with you through the good and the bad times.
3 - God himself, through becoming incarnate, knows what it is like to be human; both the good and the bad.
4 - Thus God is able to sympathise when we cry out to Him in the tough times.
The lesson which I think God is trying to get through to me? I think number 2 is taking some time to sink in...
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Finish the job on Sunday
I've previously written about the important elements of a sermon. When it comes to the end; trailing off isn't a pretty conclusion.
But I think there is one vital element that's required before the curtain is drawn on a sermon.
Application.
Unless I know how to apply what you're telling me on a Monday, then your task on Sunday is unfinished.
James 1:22 tells believers to "... not merely listen to the word" but also "... Do what it says."
Unless the preacher fulfils both information and application then the job is not done.
But I think there is one vital element that's required before the curtain is drawn on a sermon.
Application.
Unless I know how to apply what you're telling me on a Monday, then your task on Sunday is unfinished.
James 1:22 tells believers to "... not merely listen to the word" but also "... Do what it says."
Unless the preacher fulfils both information and application then the job is not done.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Fill the vacancy
I feel like I've had this rant before.
If I have, I can't track it down.
The closest I've gotten is this post about kids who leave and do nothing. I'm going to mash the main thrust of that post with one I did about giving leaders a chance to step down but providing an amnesty period.
If you want to step back from leading in a ministry... no matter if it's as an elder, youth group leader, door greeter, musician, whatever... please have something to step back into.
Maybe your passion for a ministry has wained.
Perhaps your life stage has shifted.
There may even be an irreparable personality clash.
Unless you are forced to step down due to burnout, stepping from one ministry into a vacuum is not, in my opinion, what God intends. God intends every member of the Body of Christ to be active.
Leave with grace.
Wish them well.
But don't let your next destination be floating about in nothingness.
No matter if you're departing on a positive note or a low point, if you say that you are going towards something else (something that you feel God is calling you to be a part of, something you are passionate about, another ministry with a need) then the leader will take your departure much better.
Heck, they may even affirm the direction you are taking and (shock!) send you with their blessings.
Imagine that...
If I have, I can't track it down.
The closest I've gotten is this post about kids who leave and do nothing. I'm going to mash the main thrust of that post with one I did about giving leaders a chance to step down but providing an amnesty period.
If you want to step back from leading in a ministry... no matter if it's as an elder, youth group leader, door greeter, musician, whatever... please have something to step back into.
Maybe your passion for a ministry has wained.
Perhaps your life stage has shifted.
There may even be an irreparable personality clash.
Unless you are forced to step down due to burnout, stepping from one ministry into a vacuum is not, in my opinion, what God intends. God intends every member of the Body of Christ to be active.
Leave with grace.
Wish them well.
But don't let your next destination be floating about in nothingness.
No matter if you're departing on a positive note or a low point, if you say that you are going towards something else (something that you feel God is calling you to be a part of, something you are passionate about, another ministry with a need) then the leader will take your departure much better.
Heck, they may even affirm the direction you are taking and (shock!) send you with their blessings.
Imagine that...
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Minor action men
Last Sunday a bloke came up to me with a small oil bottle to apply on the church's squeaky table legs.
He notices such things.
Every church has a few people who notice such things. Little things. Things which normally don't catch the eye of others.
Maybe it is a broken or flickering light.Or that the cushions needs reupholstering.
Or that the tap is dripping in the bathroom.
Or that there's a persistent buzzing sound during the church service.
And, whilst I had noticed the ear piercing screech of the table legs, I would have lived with it.
But there are a rare breed who walk among us.
No matter what it is... These people not only notice these small things, but actually DO SOMETHING about it.
These people are THE BEST.
He notices such things.
Every church has a few people who notice such things. Little things. Things which normally don't catch the eye of others.
Maybe it is a broken or flickering light.Or that the cushions needs reupholstering.
Or that the tap is dripping in the bathroom.
Or that there's a persistent buzzing sound during the church service.
And, whilst I had noticed the ear piercing screech of the table legs, I would have lived with it.
But there are a rare breed who walk among us.
No matter what it is... These people not only notice these small things, but actually DO SOMETHING about it.
These people are THE BEST.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Who wouldn't hire a Wookie?
A hippy.
An old man.
A yobbo.
A dirty Mexican.
Many, many, photos being a creeper...
As someone looking for a job for 2013, I'm told that potential employers will trawl through my social media profiles.
The above are some of the pictures they will find.
And, as a youth minister, that isn't unusual.
At camps you dress up.
At events, or during their promotion, I've made a mighty big fool of myself all too often.
In fact, some of these photos could assist in my search for a new ministry position.
But, they might send the exact opposite message to a potential employer who isn't church based.
So... how long should it be until I de-ministry-ify my social media profiles? I vote for never.
Who wouldn't want Chewbacca working for them?
An old man.
A yobbo.
A dirty Mexican.
Many, many, photos being a creeper...
As someone looking for a job for 2013, I'm told that potential employers will trawl through my social media profiles.
The above are some of the pictures they will find.
And, as a youth minister, that isn't unusual.
At camps you dress up.
At events, or during their promotion, I've made a mighty big fool of myself all too often.
In fact, some of these photos could assist in my search for a new ministry position.
But, they might send the exact opposite message to a potential employer who isn't church based.
So... how long should it be until I de-ministry-ify my social media profiles? I vote for never.
Who wouldn't want Chewbacca working for them?
Friday, November 2, 2012
No Movember
It's November, so once again, the clock is ticking for blokes to grow moustaches for Movember.
As good as the cause is (raising awareness of prostate cancer and Men's mental health issues)...
As wonderful as the $300+ million raised is...
As excellent as having 1.9 million people participating is...
I just... um...won't can't do it.
The reasons?
1 - I can't really grow a moustache... Aside from a dirty, Mexican, pedophile one.
2 - I can't afford to be prohibited from schools and young people for 30 days.
3 - I don't want to scare my daughter.
4 - My wife detests it whenever I go without shaving for long periods and I'd rather not force my darling wife to leave me.
So I can't do it.
Because, if I did, would you let this guy near children???
That all being said, donate to the cause here.
As good as the cause is (raising awareness of prostate cancer and Men's mental health issues)...
As wonderful as the $300+ million raised is...
As excellent as having 1.9 million people participating is...
I just... um...
The reasons?
1 - I can't really grow a moustache... Aside from a dirty, Mexican, pedophile one.
2 - I can't afford to be prohibited from schools and young people for 30 days.
3 - I don't want to scare my daughter.
4 - My wife detests it whenever I go without shaving for long periods and I'd rather not force my darling wife to leave me.
So I can't do it.
Because, if I did, would you let this guy near children???
That all being said, donate to the cause here.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Priority Ramblings
I'll admit something which the sidebar of this blog has made painfully obvious. I'm blogging less.
In the past I've tried to churn out five items a week. Now I've settled into the routine of writing something every couple of days. Maybe slightly less.
I use the term "churn out" purposefully because that was how it felt some times. I was spouting out content "because it was due" on my imaginary posting calendar.
But it went further than that.
I knew that a decrease in posts would have consequences.
My blog would get less hits.
I would have less of "a voice."
I would be less "out there" in the WWW.
My imaginary drove of readers would faithfully click on my Ramblings and see... nothing new.
But life has changed.
I'm now a proud father to a seven-month-old.
For the last 12+ months I've been writing Tiny Bible Bits thrice a week (thus robbing my blog of amaz-irffic content).
My church commitments became increasingly varied as my current position winds down.
And because these reasons, especially the first one, outweighed the importance of this blog I wore the cost...
Hits have dropped.
I haven't submitted a guest post for a few months.
Sometimes, like now, there have been a couple of days without a fresh post.
And I imagine that very, very, few people have really noticed.
And whilst I still value this outlet.
And if you read my Ramblings then that is swell.
And I'd love you're input of what I write about.
And... If I become "Internet famous" then that's great.
It really comes down to the meat of this post about why I turned down a full time ministry job.
The more important things must come first... In life. In ministry. In blogging.
(I'm sure I'll write something profoundly insightful in another day or so. You all come back now!)
In the past I've tried to churn out five items a week. Now I've settled into the routine of writing something every couple of days. Maybe slightly less.
I use the term "churn out" purposefully because that was how it felt some times. I was spouting out content "because it was due" on my imaginary posting calendar.
But it went further than that.
I knew that a decrease in posts would have consequences.
My blog would get less hits.
I would have less of "a voice."
I would be less "out there" in the WWW.
My imaginary drove of readers would faithfully click on my Ramblings and see... nothing new.
But life has changed.
I'm now a proud father to a seven-month-old.
For the last 12+ months I've been writing Tiny Bible Bits thrice a week (thus robbing my blog of amaz-irffic content).
My church commitments became increasingly varied as my current position winds down.
And because these reasons, especially the first one, outweighed the importance of this blog I wore the cost...
Hits have dropped.
I haven't submitted a guest post for a few months.
Sometimes, like now, there have been a couple of days without a fresh post.
And I imagine that very, very, few people have really noticed.
And whilst I still value this outlet.
And if you read my Ramblings then that is swell.
And I'd love you're input of what I write about.
And... If I become "Internet famous" then that's great.
It really comes down to the meat of this post about why I turned down a full time ministry job.
The more important things must come first... In life. In ministry. In blogging.
(I'm sure I'll write something profoundly insightful in another day or so. You all come back now!)
Monday, October 29, 2012
Daughter, lend me your ears
I get it... families are busy.
I get it... being at church on time can be an ordeal if you have kids.
But... there have been more weeks than I can recall, at numerous churches I've been attached with, when there have been no kids for the children's talk (even if they do arrive immediately after the talk).
So, the primary option is to throw out a light-hearted quip about the "the young at heart" or "those who are short, and would like a better view" and quickly proceede like nothing was amiss.
Yesterday's gimmick to overcome the no-children-in-church dilemma was to sit my seven month old daughter in front of me and give her the children's address.
For the most part it worked.
It showed off Hanna's latest talent of sitting unsupported, allowed me to expand the talk to include some of the sermon content and was damn cute.
I imagine I'm not the first leader of a church service who has personally provided the youngsters for the kids talk.
I get it... being at church on time can be an ordeal if you have kids.
But... there have been more weeks than I can recall, at numerous churches I've been attached with, when there have been no kids for the children's talk (even if they do arrive immediately after the talk).
So, the primary option is to throw out a light-hearted quip about the "the young at heart" or "those who are short, and would like a better view" and quickly proceede like nothing was amiss.
Yesterday's gimmick to overcome the no-children-in-church dilemma was to sit my seven month old daughter in front of me and give her the children's address.
For the most part it worked.
It showed off Hanna's latest talent of sitting unsupported, allowed me to expand the talk to include some of the sermon content and was damn cute.
I imagine I'm not the first leader of a church service who has personally provided the youngsters for the kids talk.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
The clothing of death
Yesterday I went to the races and, whilst I was in a suit, I didn't wear a tie.
Today I preached in both and morning and the evening services, and whilst I wore a suit, I didn't wear a tie.
Every time I speak at chapel, whilst I wear and suit like all the other teachers, I never wear a tie.
Whenever I go to a wedding, I will always wear a suit, but never a tie.
The only time I crack out a tie is at a funeral.
To get me wearing a tie, someones gotta die...
Today I preached in both and morning and the evening services, and whilst I wore a suit, I didn't wear a tie.
Every time I speak at chapel, whilst I wear and suit like all the other teachers, I never wear a tie.
Whenever I go to a wedding, I will always wear a suit, but never a tie.
The only time I crack out a tie is at a funeral.
To get me wearing a tie, someones gotta die...
Friday, October 26, 2012
Hurry before time runs out!!!
At the lunchtime group at the high school I teach scripture they are plugging a camp. Nothing too earth shaking about that.
But today I found out that the head scripture teacher had "extended" the deadline.
I use term "extend" because, in reality, he didn't stretch a thing. For the deadline for forms to be returned was always next Thursday. BUT, he promoted the event like the deadline for applications was last week.
And herein lies the genius of his plan.
With the "extended" time frame a whole new wave of excitement was stirred and kids who were hesitant last week now have another "final" week to get their butts into gear.
All because he knew when the forms ACTUALLY had to be handed in but promoted the event like it didn't matter.
But today I found out that the head scripture teacher had "extended" the deadline.
I use term "extend" because, in reality, he didn't stretch a thing. For the deadline for forms to be returned was always next Thursday. BUT, he promoted the event like the deadline for applications was last week.
And herein lies the genius of his plan.
With the "extended" time frame a whole new wave of excitement was stirred and kids who were hesitant last week now have another "final" week to get their butts into gear.
All because he knew when the forms ACTUALLY had to be handed in but promoted the event like it didn't matter.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Safety within the risk pitch
If you check out the Cecil label in the sidebar then you'll know some of the trial of tribulations I endured with my first car. At best, he was "full of character" (but oh so comfy!).
If you read these posts then you'll see the torment my second car put me through. At best, he was craptastic.
My current car is now having issues. Over the last few days he's sounded like he's powered by an outboard motor and I constantly feel the burn of pedestrians judgemental eyes whenever I accelerate. At best, Big Red is critically wounded and bleeding out.
For each of my cars there's been a time when my wife has looked sternly at me and declared firmly that she "was not getting in that car."
And she had a valid point.
At various times, each of my cars has been vehicular Russian Roulette.
And the risk hasn't been worth it. My cars have been too dangerous to transport something as important as my wife or child.
For with every risk must be an element of safety. If not? Then it's a mistake waiting to happen.
This is equally true for cars as it is for ministry.
For ministry should involve some risk.
Change involves risk.
Ministry should involve stepping out into uncharted waters.
Following Jesus should not merely be safe.
But the pitch to others must involve more than just an invitation to jump aboard a kamikaze style ministry. Some elements of safety must be mixed in with the elements of risk.
If you read these posts then you'll see the torment my second car put me through. At best, he was craptastic.
My current car is now having issues. Over the last few days he's sounded like he's powered by an outboard motor and I constantly feel the burn of pedestrians judgemental eyes whenever I accelerate. At best, Big Red is critically wounded and bleeding out.
For each of my cars there's been a time when my wife has looked sternly at me and declared firmly that she "was not getting in that car."
And she had a valid point.
At various times, each of my cars has been vehicular Russian Roulette.
And the risk hasn't been worth it. My cars have been too dangerous to transport something as important as my wife or child.
For with every risk must be an element of safety. If not? Then it's a mistake waiting to happen.
This is equally true for cars as it is for ministry.
For ministry should involve some risk.
Change involves risk.
Ministry should involve stepping out into uncharted waters.
Following Jesus should not merely be safe.
But the pitch to others must involve more than just an invitation to jump aboard a kamikaze style ministry. Some elements of safety must be mixed in with the elements of risk.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
The 7 Le'Tours of Voldermort
Should Lance Armstrong become the cycling equivalent of Voldermort?
Was the head of the UTI right to say that he should "be forgotten?"
I don't think so.
The world should not forget Lance.
Sportspeople should not forget Lance.
Cycling, definitely, should not forget Lance.
Nor should athletics forget Ben Johnson or Marion Jones.
Nor should rugby league forget what the Melbourne Storm did.
Nor should wrestling forget Chris Beniot.
Instead, they should learn from those who have gone before them and fallen spectacularly.
I think this is what 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 is trying to get at.
Was the head of the UTI right to say that he should "be forgotten?"
I don't think so.
The world should not forget Lance.
Sportspeople should not forget Lance.
Cycling, definitely, should not forget Lance.
Nor should athletics forget Ben Johnson or Marion Jones.
Nor should rugby league forget what the Melbourne Storm did.
Nor should wrestling forget Chris Beniot.
Instead, they should learn from those who have gone before them and fallen spectacularly.
I think this is what 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 is trying to get at.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Announcing the departure in 3, 2, when?
December 31st.
This is the final date of employment at my current church.
It was announced to the church a month ago.
And I've known my final dated for a while before then. Maybe not officially, but the funding was always finite.
The church? For some, the first they heard about my departure was when it was announced.
So how much time should a church have before a ministry agent leaves?
As one who has been on both ends of a lengthy and swift departure window, both have positives and negetives.
But in reality only a few things matter...
What are the circumstances of the departure? Was it amicable?
Who needs the departure date more, the church or the departing worker?
Is the person going to another placement?Does the church need adequate time to arrange another appointment?
Is there a viable succession plan in place for things to continue?
This is the final date of employment at my current church.
It was announced to the church a month ago.
And I've known my final dated for a while before then. Maybe not officially, but the funding was always finite.
The church? For some, the first they heard about my departure was when it was announced.
So how much time should a church have before a ministry agent leaves?
As one who has been on both ends of a lengthy and swift departure window, both have positives and negetives.
But in reality only a few things matter...
What are the circumstances of the departure? Was it amicable?
Who needs the departure date more, the church or the departing worker?
Is the person going to another placement?Does the church need adequate time to arrange another appointment?
Is there a viable succession plan in place for things to continue?
Thursday, October 18, 2012
I'm okay either way...
Sometimes there's just one answer when all the evidence is weighed up. When this is the case then a team of people will need to be convinced by your reasoning.
But you won't have much buy-in for your idea.
At other times, there are a number of options which are equally plausible and reasonable to implement.
And herein lies a golden opportunity.
Present both options and let the members of your team decide for nothing creates ownership like having the major stakeholders choosing the way forward.
Sometimes all you need are two options you're perfectly fine with...
But you won't have much buy-in for your idea.
At other times, there are a number of options which are equally plausible and reasonable to implement.
And herein lies a golden opportunity.
Present both options and let the members of your team decide for nothing creates ownership like having the major stakeholders choosing the way forward.
Sometimes all you need are two options you're perfectly fine with...
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Death inhibitors
Some churches are thriving.
Better yet, who is the person going up to these churches and challenging them to change their mindset?
Some churches are doing powerful things to expand the
Kingdom of God.
Some churches are taking innovative risks in order to reach
new people with the Good News.
Other churches are struggling to the point of death.
The sad thing is that you don't have to look far to find a
church which is at the doors of death.
I wonder how many churches/denominations make decisions
because they are afraid to die. Or at least die sooner.
How many churches won' take a risk today so they can survive
another year?
How many churches seek to maintain what they have because
they're aware they haven't attracted anyone new for years?
How many churches are so scared by the stench of death
within their walls that they won't step out in faith?
Better yet, who is the person going up to these churches and challenging them to change their mindset?
Just wondering...