The Bishop's Jiggy Musings

This Blog Is Moving

2010-01-20T21:49:00.003-06:00

Thanks to the generosity of a friend, I am going to be migrating my blog to a new server. It will be hosted through Toby's server! So, over the next couple days I will be moving all blogs over and you can start watching for www.thejiggybishop.com to be the new blog location!

Hard Things

2010-01-12T09:33:00.001-06:00

If you go digging into the New Testament, you will find Jesus having some pretty intense conversations with people at various times. Sometimes those conversations center on basic and easy things to understand. But, periodically, you find Him laying the smack down in such a way that people decide they just don't want to follow Him any more. Have you ever been there? Jesus confronts you with a truth that requires you to either choose to change your outlook and behavior or to choose to just not follow Him completely any more. I mean, let's be honest. If we pick and choose what parts we will obey and what parts we will ignore, aren't we really just being disobedient across the board? It begs the question, "How much disobedience does it take to be labeled 'disobedient?'" When Jesus says things like, "You can not be my disciple if you don't hate your own life," or "If anyone wants to follow me, he must deny himself, take up his cross every day, and follow me." it brings us to a point of choosing. Either we will obey, or we won't. It's simple, really, if we're being honest about it.

This semester at "The Porch," we are going to be digging into these hard sayings of Jesus while taking an honest look at what it means to be His disciple. Our "theme" for the Spring is "We Do Hard Things." Will you join us in this journey towards obedience?

A 2 Quote Morning

2010-01-02T11:48:00.000-06:00

While reading this morning, two thoughts really impacted me. Since I know the way many of you think, I thought you'd find them provoking as well.

"...this is exactly what I see: a lot of people who have added Jesus to their lives. People who have, in a sense, asked Him to join THEM on their journey, to follow THEM wherever THEY feel THEY should go, rather than following Him as we are commanded. The God of the universe is not something we can just add to our lives and keep in as we did before." ("Forgotten God," Francis Chan, p. 122)

"What if you could hear the voice of the Holy Spirit and He asked you to literally give EVERYTHING you owned? What if He asked you to sell ALL your possessions and give the money to the poor? Could you do it? Before you start explaining why He would never ask that of you, take a moment and answer the question honestly. It's not out of His character to ask for everything." ("Forgotten God," Francis Chan, p. 126)

In a recent ongoing dialogue with an old childhood friend, we've been chewing on the state of the Western Church, and perhaps this hits close to what we've talked about. Feel free to let the discussion begin!

Resolute Change

2009-12-31T11:16:00.003-06:00

I've never been a fan of New Year's Resolutions. Why be more focused on change this time of year than any other? But, more and more, I'm understanding that EVERY day should be one of resolute change. As a matter of fact, I am resolving to be a person of resolute change every day in 2010, and would challenge you to join me.

Simply put, "resolute" means, "firm in purpose or belief." And "change" means, "the action of making something different." What I'm resolving to do is firmly and purposefully act to make something different and more like Jesus. Yesterday I was reading a devotional thought by Oswald Chambers. He references John 6:66, which follows one of Jesus' hard sayings. In response to what Jesus told them, we read, "From that time many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him." There are many times in our lives when we are faced with an idea or thought from Jesus that seems hard, or isn't what we want. In response, we just kinda ignore it, or decide we will deal with it some other way so that we can continue unchanged. In essence, our lack of change shows that we've decided not to follow Jesus on this point. Oswald Chambers speaks to this, saying, "if you do not walk in the light of that vision, you will sink into servitude to a point of view which Our Lord never had. Disobedience in mind to the heavenly vision will make you a slave to points of view that are alien to Jesus Christ." The bottom line is each time we disagree with Jesus about a point in our life, we are adopting someone else's view point and giving it priority over Jesus' viewpoint. Whether it's in the area of entertainment, business practice, or some other area of our lives, each departure further removes us from the mind of Christ until we ultimately reach the point of doing what we want and only asking God to bless it (or just hoping He doesn't find out!).

Will you join me in this one resolute change: when Jesus speaks to an area of my life, I resolve to quickly and forever align myself with His will? That, I think, is a resolution worth keeping EVERY DAY, and not just in January of 2010.

Encouragement? Prophecy? or Both?

2009-12-26T10:38:00.002-06:00

In my retreat time this morning, I was reading John 14 - 16. It's an amazing 3 chapters about the Holy Spirit, Jesus' relationship to Father and Spirit, and the connection of all 3 to us. Being 3 of my favorite chapters of Scripture, I read them often, but was deeply impacted by them this morning in a way not the norm for me.

I tend to read this passage and find encouragement for my life in the Holy Spirit's role/connection for me. I enjoy phrases like "Do not let your hearts be troubled," and "You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." They remind me of the intimate connection we have to Father because of Son by indwelling of Spirit. And rightfully so. Jesus Himself says that He is telling us these things "so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."

Have you ever read these chapters as prophecy, though? Look at the progression of events in these chapters. Jesus will be gone for a short time and then return. He will send the Holy Spirit when He leaves for good. The disciples will have questions now, but then all things will be clear. Greater things will be done by them. They will be scattered for a time. They will be hated by the world, yet overcome it. Their grief will turn to joy. They will be put out of the Synagogue. In a passage where most find comfort, Jesus in a very detailed way outlines the rest of their lives for them!

And, just as He said, they are with Him, dessert Him, have their grief turned to joy, walk with Him a bit longer, receive the Holy Spirit, and never doubt again. They turn the world upside down, and in spite of being martyred, they have peace in this world. They heal the lame and blind, raise the dead, speak in languages they've never learned, and are noted as ordinary guys who are changing the world because they had been with Jesus. These three chapters of John so closely parallel the Book of Acts that I am amazed more people don't teach on this! We turn to these chapters for comfort. But do we turn to them for prophecy and to see if our lives are "lining out" like people who truly have received His Spirit?

As Jesus wraps up this prophetic/encouraging discussion with His friends, He says, "Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." What did the Disciples end up asking for? That their lives be used up for Him, His kingdom, and His glory. And that's what He did with them, and they received a joy that was complete. A joy so complete that Paul and Silas could sing as they are beat nearly to death (Acts 16).

Finite Minds

2009-12-19T09:13:00.003-06:00

I'm noticing an increase in the number of conversations I'm having with people about things our finite minds can't wrap around. Most recently around the idea that God sovereignly saves BUT man is still responsible to respond.

I don't know if this represents a significant shift in people's awareness of Biblical paradox, or if people feel like they have become smart enough to grasp infinite things with their finite minds.

As a follower of Jesus, we serve a God who is not confined nor constrained by "the possible." He works beyond our frame of reference, outside the time line. It should not surprise us that there are things that are a reality in spite of our inability to grasp them. For instance, no matter how simply you break it down, all of our best analogies to explain the Trinity fall short. I've heard most of the comparisons, like the apple, egg, or even our own existence. And while saying the Trinity is like an egg is a beginning place for the trinity, the shell is never the yolk is never the white. The apple, although being core, skin, meat, and seeds, has never been on earth while talking to itself in heaven and promising to send itself back once it goes away (John 14-16).

The reality is we will never grasp this side of eternity many of the intricacies that surround our HUGE God or the way He operates. But the truth is that brings me great comfort. Knowing that God can't be explained or fully understood is one MORE reason He can be trusted and looked to for the impossible! He inspires trust and hope because He is unlike anything we will ever experience! And while some wrestle to wrap their brains around Him, I strive to let Him wrap me in His paradoxical presence and just be amazed by Him.

Yo May Yo

2009-12-07T23:56:00.000-06:00

Yo May Yo? That's Chinese for "have or don't have." That's the thought that came to mind this morning as I contemplated this statement from Francis Chan: "if we woke up tomorrow and discovered that it is not true the Holy Spirit lives inside us, most likely our lives wouldn't look much different."

How Many People

2009-12-05T09:17:00.000-06:00

Reading 3 books at the moment (why do I do this to myself?). On page 32 of Francis Chan's "Forgotten God," he presents this assertion in form of a question that I thought might be a good discussion point:
"This may be a silly illustration, but if I told you I had an encounter with God where He entered my body and gave me a supernatural ability to play basketball, wouldn't you expect to see an amazing improvement in my jump shot, my defense, and my speed on the court? After all, this is God we're talking about. And if you saw no change in my athleticism, wouldn't you question the validity of my 'encounter'?"

How many people across America say that the Holy Spirit has entered them, and yet there is no supernatural living present in their lives? What does it really mean to be born again? Surely this is the point that Paul is discussing with Timothy in 2 Tim. 3 when he tells Timothy, "People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them."

Or, perhaps this is the frustration James is dealing with in James 3, when he poses the question, "Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water?" James sums it up when he says, "these things ought not be so."

But how do we get past this? The first thing I am doing is to open God's Word in search of any preconceived ideas I've had about Jesus and His work in my life; or what it means for me to be the place God's Spirit dwells now. IF God has invaded my being, what are the things in that should be improving? How about you?

Chewing on this

2009-11-18T11:51:00.002-06:00

I've been chewing on this from McManus' "The Barbarian Way,"

"Yet, Christianity over the past two thousand years has moved from a tribe of renegades to a religion of conformists. Those who choose to follow Jesus become participants in an insurrection. To claim we believe is simply not enough. The call of Jesus is one that demands action. Jesus began His public ministry with a simple invitation: 'Come, follow me.' His closing instructions to His disciples can be summarized in one word, 'Go!' A quick survey of the modern church would lead you to believe His invitation was 'Come and listen,' and His closing mandate would be summarized in the one word 'No!' The tribe of Jesus, above all people, should rightly carry the banner, 'Forward.'"

Renewal

2009-11-17T10:07:00.002-06:00

It's been a LONG time since my last post. I am in the process of some major changes in my life, family, and ministry (all of them good, so no worries). But the truth is I haven't had time to blog and I honestly miss it. So, starting in the days to come, I will be renewing my efforts to actually post something that I'm chewing on at the time!

Pace Bene,

Jase

Toby Wimberley Update Page

2009-09-28T12:17:00.006-05:00

Toby Wimberley, a dear friend and long time member of The Heights Fellowship, was in a serious motorcycle accident with an 18-wheeler Monday afternoon. He was immediately rushed to University Medical Center with several broken ribs, a broken patella, a perforated intestine, and a severed artery, severely bleeding internally. He was immediately rushed into emergency surgery to stop the bleeding and begin repairing his injured organs, but was bleeding so severely he began to become unstable. They stopped the surgery after repairing the severed artery and he slowly began to stabilize.

Tuesday 9-22-09

Over night, his heart rate and fever were both elevated enough prevent the surgeons from continuing the surgery on Tuesday morning. To better understand the enzyme levels and performance of his heart they implanted a monitor into his heart so they could better evaluate the next procedure. As the day continued his fever and his heart rate slowly began dropping and the surgeons took him back into surgery just after 2:00 P.M.

4:30 p.m.
Toby came out of surgery at 4:30 P.M. with a great report from his doctor. They finished up the surgery they started yesterday, checked his colon, and repaired minor damage to his spleen. Now we wait until Friday when they plan to close him up and repair his pelvis.

8:00 p.m.
Just got to see Toby. The nurse said he is in Critical but stable condition. His blood pressure is good. He has an elevated heart rate, but it has been consistent all day, so they are pleased with it. Toby is still intubated and sedated, but his color is back and he's doing well. The way the nurse put it is He's not out of the woods yet, but we can see the edge of the trees. Keep praying. Later I will recount the story we heard from a nurse on all of the divine appointments that happened to keep Toby with us!

11:59 p.m.
At midnight, the nurse said Toby's heart rate has dropped back down to a better level and his vitals are still looking good. Recovery from his first surgery is going well and they plan to go into surgery to repair his pelvis on Friday. I gave him a 5 minute pep talk and prayed over him, as I know many of you are praying too. Keep it up!

Wednesday 09-23-09

8:00 a.m.
After checking on Toby several times by phone last night, we found out his heart rate is good and vitals are stable. He's still listed as critical, but he's been stable for 15 hours! We are almost through the 1st 48 hours, which the docs had said would be the most critical time frame.

8:00 p.m.
They were able to take Toby off of his ventilator this morning and he is breathing on his own. His vitals are still at very good levels and he is very responsive. Surgery is still planned for Friday to work on his pelvis and close his abdomen.

9:30 p.m.
Toby has had a myriad of visitors this evening. He's looking a lot better. In addition to his stats being well, his color is good, and he is responding to people coming in to see him. They are putting him back on the ventilator for the night since he is so tired. We'll update again in the morning. Thanks for all the prayers. Keep it up!

Thursday 09-24-09

2:30 a.m.
Just checked in on Toby, and his nurse said they have his blood pressure down and his heart rate under 120! That's great news. In the words of his nurse, "Toby keeps trucking along!" I know his family is very grateful for all that has been done for them, and all the support shown during this tough time. Thank you.

8:45 a.m.
They just came out and let us know that they have moved Toby's pelvic surgery and the closing of his abdomen to RIGHT NOW! The surgeon has already come out and they are ready to roll him back. This is the next big step that Toby's taking early. Seems like he does everything early! I'll post back here when they let us know how it went.

3:45 p.m.
Toby came out of surgery well. They fixed his pelvis, and seem hopeful to fix his knee cap. They also performed an appendectomy while they were in there. Everything seems to be healing quite nicely. The other news is that the skin and muscles over his stomach are not going to be able to be closed at this time. They are going to keep him "vacuum packed" for the next 2 weeks while they try to skin graft and mesh wire his outside closed. They will be doing skin grafts over the mesh to try and eventually get him "closed" back up. He will be here at least 2 more weeks, and he is still listed in critical condition. KEEP PRAYING!

Friday 09-25-09

8:00 a.m.
Toby had a steady night last night. No real news or changes. The plan for today is to begin to wake him up from the pain meds and take his breathing tube out. His blood pressure is a little elevated, but his pulse is good.

11:30 a.m.
The staff decided to try to move Toby around and get him ready to be extubated. He didn't like that too much, so he's back on the ventilator. They have decided his "fussy" reaction to their work was because he isn't awake enough to not fight them. So, they are working him off of his meds to try to get him awake and they will try again. Keep praying.

9:00 p.m.
Toby is semi-alert/semi-awake. I was able to talk to him a little bit. They decided to re-sedate him for the night since they won't extubate him until tomorrow. Good news is that they are planning to take the tube out. The bad news is that it's pretty painful for him. In typical Toby fashion, I walked in to find him "fighting" with the nurse. The nurse was trying to get him to relax his arm and Toby didn't want him messing with it. I walk in and hear, "I know you're awake, Toby. I know you can hear me and are just being ornery!" I had to laugh! Since we're not expecting any changes, this will be the last update for today. Keep praying and keep sending those letters of encouragement. Shelby's reading them.

Saturday 09-26-09

8:30 a.m.
Toby has passed all the respiratory tests, so they have extubated him. He is greatly agitated right now, so we haven't been back to see him yet this morning. It was an up and down night with his heart rate and blood pressure. Usually the morning visitation comes along with a briefing from his overnight activity, so I should have more to post soon.

10:15 a.m.
They had to reintubate Toby. Apparently he started fighting pain and being aware of where he is and became agitated. His blood pressure and heart rate became too high so they put him back on the tube and back on the vent/CPAP. Almost immediately, after they put the tube back in, all of his vitals came back to the good range, so they are going to try again tomorrow.

8:30 p.m.
Toby has spent most of the day sedated again. He's had a rough day. Nothing life threatening, but tough nonetheless. They have been feeding him through a tube, and his body seems to be processing the way that it should. So, we will pray for a restful night for him so that his procedure goes well tomorrow. He will have his abdomen repacked and evaluated for closing tomorrow. Monday's schedule includes his knee rebuild, so we're praying for strength and healing for him.

Sunday 9-27-09

7:00 p.m.
Toby has had a very restful day. He underwent a procedure this morning to repack and reevaluate his abdomen for closing now that his organs have had a few days for the swelling to decrease. The procedure went very well, however, they still were not able to close him up because his muscles have retracted some. After their evaluation, they still plan to do a skin graft over the next few weeks. He has been very relaxed and has rested peacefully for the day with good vital signs. They plan to work on his knee tomorrow.

Monday 09-28-09

8:00 a.m.
Toby had some fever last night. The good news is his heart rate and blood pressure are really good. He's been fighting fever for a while, but that's nothing new. The fever has been a recurring thing. They have not yet taken him back for knee surgery, but that's on the schedule for today. I'll update when he comes out of surgery.

11:30 a.m.
Toby came out of surgery a few minutes ago. The surgeon was pleased with the operation, and says the knee is rebuilt. They had to do some drilling so that it would stimulate blood flow. At some point today we should hear what is coming up next.

The Fragile Nature of Life

2009-09-22T07:44:00.001-05:00

I got a text yesterday during staff meeting from Shelby saying Toby had been in a motorcycle accident. Toby is one of my closest friends. You may have seen him in our "Wild Hogs" pictures. Toby's that guy that can fix anything, and is always the first to show up and help with something.
The text said Toby had been in an accident, and has some broken ribs and a broken knee. So, we bailed on staff meeting and headed that way, expecting to find a bruised and sore Toby.

Got to the ER, and Shelby hadn't been able to see Toby yet, so we camped in the ER waiting room eagerly awaiting a report on my surely road-rashed friend. That's when we found out that they had to rush Toby into emergency surgery upon discovering a building amount of fluid in his stomach. Turns out he had severed an artery in his abdomen, and nearly bled to death internally. Upon further examination, his knee cap is shattered, pelvis broken, internal organs (intestines, possibly colon) had perforated, and multiple ribs broken. His status went from banged up to critical in a matter of minutes. After 5 hours of surgery, they had to close him up because his vital signs became unstable. They still have work to do on his organs, pelvis, and knee cap.

The thing about Toby is that he is, by nature, a fighter. He doesn't accept the fact that an obstacle can block your path. This man doesn't take "No" for an answer. I'm honestly surprised that he doesn't have a clause in his files stating that he gets to assist on any repairs done to himself. We were joking with him last night about having his hands restrained in order to keep him from fixing himself.

It's been a rough night but Toby is fighting. The SICU doctor told Shelby that the next 24 - 48 hours would be crucial, so we're almost halfway done with that. Please be praying. I know Toby would tell us to go on with the stuff that needs to get done and not to worry about him. But I am asking you to spend a significant amount of time in prayer for him today. Toby is that guy that literally is there for anyone and everyone. The most generous man I know, he embodies the Christian spirit of service and sacrifice. Join me in praying Toby out of danger and onto recovery.

A Broken Little Heart

2009-08-15T23:25:00.002-05:00

I have had a pretty crummy day. Nothing really bad happened. But I had to tell my little warrior that he didn't achieve his Black Belt today. It has weighed heavily on me all day, kinda overshadowing what was otherwise a pretty decent day. As the day winds to an end, I know that I will always remember walking into the room where Jeremiah was getting his gear together and breaking it to him that he didn't make it. It was SO STINKING HARD to look him in the eye and tell him the news.

However, in a society where kids are told they never fail, where child athletes are told "everyone wins," a valuable lesson was learned today; for Jeremiah and myself.

First, Jeremiah told me through the tears that he knew he hadn't performed at an expert level. He knew he hadn't done well, but he had hoped it was enough. We were able to have a REALLY good talk about what it means to be a Black Belt, and how it's so much more than just knowing the material. There is a proficiency level that accompanies the knowledge. The Black Belt test isn't like other belt tests. Other belt tests tend to be more "pass/fail" tests. But the Black Belt test is more of an assessment of the students abilities to determine if they are an expert in their art. For instance, a student seeking to advance from orange belt to yellow belt needs to show a proficiency commensurate with that belt, seeking to show their progression. The Black Belt, however, must demonstrate that he/she has mastered all of the materials for all of the belts and is able to teach, model, and instruct. Where as the potential orange belt may progress with a score of 70%, the student seeking his/her Black Belt must perform around 90%. In our conversations today, Jeremiah conveyed he felt like he'd failed. As we talked it through, however, he discovered that he passed the test, just not at the level he needed to. While heart broken about it, it served to remind him of his responsibility to the Belt and to motivate him to be that much better when he tests again in a month.

Second, I learned that sometimes heartbreak moves us to excellence. As much as I hated to tell him that he hadn't gotten his Belt, and as deeply hurt as he was, I was able to walk through it with him and share a life moment with my son. Life is going to be full of these moments. As a dad, I HATE when my kids are hurting, and do everything I can to protect them from hurt. But not only is that impossible, but it's not healthy for my children. Hard times will come. There will be greater disappointments in life than not receiving his Black Belt. The greater lesson is learning how to handle set backs. How I coach him through disappointment will be a lesson he will carry into life. If I divert the disappointment, what does he gain? At best, he gains a belt he didn't earn. At worst, he learns that he doesn't have to face failure. The reality check for me today was to hurt with him, hurt for him, and understand that this makes him not just a better Martial Artist, but a better person.

Third, and you knew it was coming if you know me, there is a spiritual application. "The Lord is near the broken-hearted." Psalm 34:18 Perhaps we spend too much time trying to be comfortable and successful and miss a major way that God makes His presence known to us. As a parent, do I rob my children of an opportunity to deepen their faith by shielding them too much? Even as I write this, the Daddy in me is screaming, "How could I ever let my kids suffer? There's no such thing as protecting them too much! They are MY kids!" But I don't think that's it. I think that the place I landed today is that failure is a part of life and failure is a means of deepening our faith. Today I was able to hold my little boy, encourage and connect with him in a meaningful way, and point him to never giving up. And maybe, just maybe, he will find the same comfort and counsel in God's arms when the failure is much greater.

Just in case you read this, Buddy, I love you and am proud of you. I know that you will take today and build from it. Keep your chin up, your eyes bright, and get done what needs to get done. And, most of all, remember that God is nearer to you than you can know.

And I also need to say "Thank You" to Master Jason for shooting straight with Jeremiah. It would have been easy to say, "Close Enough." But that wouldn't have been right nor what's best for Jeremiah. I know it was tough, but you did the right thing, and I appreciate that. I whole heartedly believe that Jeremiah will more deeply appreciate his ability when he reaches his next goal because of today.

Asia Is Around The Corner

2009-08-06T01:38:00.003-05:00

It's almost here! In October, my entire family, along with some friends who are as close as family, will be heading back to our city in East Asia. I am excited about my family going with me. It will be all three of them's first time out of the country. And what a GREAT opportunity for them to be a part of changing the world. I've asked them to tell me why they want to go, and here's their responses:

Jeremiah (my 9 year old son):
"I want to go because I want to share Jesus with some people. I want to see what it's like there and see what people do. I hope we will reach lots of people and that they will start spreading [The Gospel] with their friends."

Cayla (my 7 year old daughter):
"All my life I've known Jesus wanted me to go. I was 5 years old, I think, when I felt like God told me to go there. I've been waiting to go ever since."

Caryn: "I want to go with y'all for the same reasons you want to go. I want to share the Hope with others that they otherwise wouldn't know about."

Have I told you her story? When she was 5 years old, while riding her tricycle in the driveway, God called her to Asia. She came to me sobbing, unable to breath, as if something horrible had happened. After I got her calmed down, she said to me, "I'm gonna miss you and mommy!" and started crying again. When she finally calmed down, she told me she was going to miss us when she is in C**** telling people about Jesus! Not only was it the moment of her calling, but God used it to call me, too. He used her to set things in motion in my life going to East Asia to prepare the way for her to go. And now, 2 years later, she can barely contain herself that she gets to go AND she doesn't have to say goodbye to us to be able to go!

Here's where you come in: For our family to go will take around $8k. It's going to take even more than that in prayer support. If you'd be willing to help with prayer, finances, or however God leads you, would you drop me an e-mail at Jason@journeylubbock.org ? We have to get the ball rolling on Passports this week.

Thanks in advance for helping us follow Cayla's calling!

Funny Quotes

2009-08-03T10:53:00.001-05:00

WOW! Really? May 28th was my last post here? What can I say? It's been a busy summer.

Let's start the conversation back up with something light-hearted, like this!

1. Chicago Cubs outfielder Andre Dawson on being a role model: "I wan' all dem kids to do what I do, to look up to me. I wan' all the kids to copulate me.."

2. New Orleans Saint RB George Rogers when asked about the upcoming season: "I want to rush for 1,000 or 1,500 yards, whichever comes first."

3. And, upon hearing Joe Jacobi of the Skin's say:"I'd run over my own mother to win the Super Bowl,"Matt Millen of the Raiders said: "To win,I'd run over Joe's Mom, too."

4. Torrin Polk, University of Houston receiver, on his coach, John Jenkins "He treats us like men. He lets us wear earrings."

5. Football commentator and former player Joe Theismann: "Nobody in football should be called a genius like Norman Einstein."

6. Senior basketball player at the University of Pittsburgh : "I'm going to graduate on time, no matter how long it takes." (Now that is beautiful)

7. Bill Peterson, a Florida State football coach: "You guys line up alphabetically by height." And, "You guys pair up in groups of three, and then line up in a circle."

8. Boxing promoter Dan Duva on Mike Tyson going to prison: "Why would
anyone expect him to come out smarter? He went to prison for three years, not Princeton ."

9. Stu Grimson, Chicago Blackhawks left wing, explaining why he keeps a color photo of himself above his locker: " That's so when I forget how to spell my name, I can still find my clothes."

10. Lou Duva, veteran boxing trainer, on the Spartan training regime of heavyweight Andrew Golota: "He's a guy who gets up at six o'clock in the morning, regardless of what time it is."

11. Chuck Nevitt , North Carolina State basketball player, explaining to Coach Jim Valvano why he appeared nervous at practice: "My sister's expecting a baby, and I don't know if I'm going to be and aunt or an uncle (I wonder if his IQ ever hit room temperature in January)

12. Frank Layden, Utah Jazz president, on a former player: "I told him, 'Son,what is it with you? Is it ignorance or apathy?' He said, 'Coach, don't know and I don't care.'"

13. Shelby Metcalf, basketball coach at Texas A&M, recounting what he told a player who received four F's and one D: "Son, looks to me like you're spending too much time on one subject."

14. In the words of NC State great Charles Shackelford, I can go to my left or right, I am amphibious.

15. Amarillo High School and Oiler coach Bum Phillips when asked by Bob Costas why he takes his wife on all the road trips, Phillips responded: "Because she is too d*** ugly to kiss good-bye.

When your student gets it...

2009-05-28T00:27:00.000-05:00

I never get tired of seeing s student "get" what they've been learning. It's that "a ha" moment where they actually do what they've been taught. I am writing about this instance, though, because I have been teaching this for 3 years now, and not many have taken it and put it into practice. However, for one of my students it has happened.

A young lady that I really met about a year ago has had that moment. In her workplace, she felt led to be a praying/studying presence for the other employees. So she took the initiative (after some DIVINE prompting) and asked another lady if she would like to meet once a week over lunch and just read the Scriptures and pray together there in the office. It turns out that the lady she asked had had a dream the night before about this very thing. So, she said yes. A couple other ladies heard about what was going on, and asked if they could join. It has been a HUGE success! I'm measuring the success not by the numbers of people coming, but by WHAT has happened.

One thing the ladies do is they right on the office white board various prayer requests. Now, others in the office stop by through out the week and place their requests there, too.

At first, there was resistance from some people in the office, even animosity towards people wanting to have a spiritual event in the work place. Now, those people are connecting and being loved on and prayed for. They are even considering being a part of the group.

And, as I suspected would happen, one young lady even called the group her church home. That's tangible kingdom right there.

Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs

2009-05-26T11:26:00.004-05:00

I watched a GREAT video this morning. Mike Rowe, of Discovery's "Dirty Jobs," does a 20 minute talk for some innovators in Silicon Valley. There's some great stories in it, but you also get a glimpse into a growing problem we have here in USAmerica. The devaluing of manual labor careers. Here's the link, and I have to say I agree with him on this. The question now is, what will I do about it?

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/mike_rowe_celebrates_dirty_jobs.html

Be sure to watch the WHOLE THING! His point comes in the last few minutes of the talk.

Day 5: Encouragement

2009-05-08T09:25:00.000-05:00

Today was the kind of day that everyone needs once in a while. We spent the day mostly with people who are like-minded. Our day started with the opportunity to gather with other Americans here in the city who live here for business purposes. This was my third time to gather with them to lift up the name of our Dad in a Sunday gathering. All three times they have asked me to share from The Book for their gathering. It’s a truly humbling experience. It’s like Michael Jordan asking me for basketball advice! I am honored to even know these people, let alone call them my friends. They are the people that The Book would be writing about if it were still being written today. And to possibly think I have anything to offer them is laughable. I am honored and humbled to just be able to sit with them and share a part of our lives. It turns out that I am the one who comes away encouraged. When they gather each week, they share family business success and failures. To listen to them and hear their hearts shames me. As I’ve said before, and will every time I get to meet with them, these are the real heroes of our business. Especially Marcus and Katlyn. They are the youngest on this team, and yet they have such a vibrant and far-reaching impact on their friends and acquaintances. That’s not to say that every team member here isn’t just stinkin’ amazing! But I’m very proud to call Marcus and Katlyn “ours.”

From the gathering we went to lunch at The Sizzling Skillet. I LOVE THAT PLACE! It’s various fried meats and potatoes served on a fajita-style skillet. Mmmm! We shared the noon meal with some Americans here on business, and were encouraged by their work. When I first came to this country, they had only been here a few days, and had no language skills and no connections to the people they need to reach. Now, almost 2 years later, they are carrying on conversations in the native language and have a huge work going on with college students. They are the couple that we will return to encourage and support in October.

After lunch we did just a bit of shopping, then it was off for Karaoke! Here, Karaoke is called KTV (Karaoke Tele-Vision). And it’s different than karaoke in the USA. Here, you rent a private room that is fully equipped for your singing (lights, sound equipment, etc.) and it’s just and your friends that embarrass each other. We sang songs in English and Chinese with our local believing friends, having a GREAT time. I’ll have that video up before long. I left KTV encouraged by the playful nature of the first family members of Marcus and Kat’s business here.

We wrapped up Karaoke JUST in time to meet some friends and attend a tea ceremony. A tea ceremony consists of brewing and tasting various kinds of teas. In our case, it was gua tea and oolong tea. The lady brewing the tea gave us all kinds of fascinating information about tea and it’s brewing during our time together. Apparently there are 21 steps to the perfect cup of tea. And I watched all 21 steps with great fascination. The group we were with was ½ family and ½ almost family. I was able to speak to them as a group and encourage them each to take the necessary steps for their relationships.

The night ended with us doing a broadcast back to the states with a trip update. We connected through Marcus and Kat’s internet and shared some of what we’ve seen here. In listening to the stories, I am encouraged about the business here. As Lindsey and Lissa shared, the people who became like-minded with us last trip have been sharing with their non-like minded friends, which is AWESOME

I’m sure by this point that I am rambling…I am falling asleep as I type, so I’m off! Keep lifting us up. We have some hard conversations tomorrow, and I nearly just smashed my face into the keyboard falling asleep! I’ll send more later!

Day 4: Surprises

2009-05-05T08:01:00.000-05:00

Today was not nearly as full of different activities as the other days, and yet I am more exhausted than any other day so far.

When we awoke this morning, the weather was too foul to go out, so we hung out at the hotel and journaled for half an hour. Then we headed out to meet a few of our friends. We had invited 3 or 4 people to go with us to Bi Jia Shan, The Natural Land Bridge. It’s a beautiful place on the coast (JZ is a coastal city) where you can walk to this mountain/island when the tide goes out. You have about 2 hours to get there or you’ll need to rent a boat to get back.

Surprise #1: The size of the group. When we got to the bus station to meet our group, the 3 or 4 had turned into 7, making 11 of us in total. When we got to Bi Jia Shan, and saw that it was 40 RMB ($6.50) per person to get in. Then it’s another 10 RMB ($1.60) per person to get a boat and another 10 RMB ($1.60) per person to climb the mountain. When it’s all said and done, to take this large group to the mountain would have cost $150! So, we decided to go exploring instead. We hiked through someone’s yard and actually made it down to the beach for some breath-taking scenery and fun pictures. As we hiked, we actually made it into the park, but were told by some attendants that we would need to go back out and buy tickets! We opted to head home instead and share a meal.

Surprise #2: The Conversations. During our exploring and our lunch, we had the opportunity to share much with all of the students that came with us. One thing we taught them is how to add “Your Mom” to the end of anything anyone says and make it into a joke! That was a hit! We also got to share things of lasting importance with them. Some of them are people who have already become family to us. Some are considering it. Two of them were friends who became family to us on our last trip here, but had not yet gone swimming in our family’s tradition. We are encouraging them to do that, as well. It seems like times like this always wind down with no one wanting to actually leave. We all just sit, knowing it’s time to go and no one actually leaving. As we left the restaurant we told our friends we would see them again before we leave.

Surprise #3: The Change In Topic. Now, on a trip like this, it feels like we eat, eat, and eat some more. We left lunch to go back to our rooms and get cleaned up so we could meet some other friends for dinner! We ate light and then headed to the home of some friends where we were going to talk about marriage and dating relationships with a group of young adults.. It was supposed to be an hour long meeting, but it went 4 hours! By the time it was done (which was when I began this update) I was exhausted. Instead of talking about relationships, it became a detailed conversation about how to become family and why everyone needs Dad. The topics ranged from the here-after to present help in trouble to how could Dad love everyone and have plans for all of us. It was GREAT conversation. But it took a LOT of active listening. When the evening came to a close, our friends were teetering on the verge of becoming family, making it a very productive night. It would be great if you would spend some time talking to Dad on behalf of these new friends.

Surprise #4: We Are Almost Done. As for us, we are exhausted, but elated. I think our body’s clocks are finally on local time. We hit a groove with what to order at local restaurants, and we have an idea of what we are working towards with our friends. The next part of the trip is the “sweet spot,” so to speak. Unfortunately, tomorrow is our last full day! It seems like it always happens that way. We will make the most of it, though. We have a lot to do in the next 48 – 60 hours! yarP for us!

Day 3: Playing

2009-05-02T15:22:00.000-05:00

Our theme for today was “play.” Our great teacher said that unless we become like children, we will not see His kingdom. I think a great part of that is the art of playing.

Our day started at 5:30 a.m. when we began to prepare for our trip to what Lindsey has started calling “Our Park.” It is actually the North Park and part of the zoo, or Dong Wu Yuan. It is the park we adopted last year to speak to Father about every day. During our time here last year, we made friends with many Senior Adults who go to the park to exercise for a couple hours every morning. Their exercise routine consists of Tai Chi, sword forms, and ti jienza (kick feather). We usually walk and talk to Dad during the Tai Chi and sword forms. Then, when our friends are done and start to play ti jienza, we join in. Ti Jienza is like hacky-sack, but with an oversized badminton birdie-like toy. And man can these Senior Adults get after it! They are kicking it behind their head, aiming for their next victim, er, I mean target, and leaping through the air like some graceful dancer choreographing an elaborate and improvised performance. Then we jump in and throw off their groove! They truly are amazing to watch. Last year, not only did I fall in love with this sport, but the outfits that they wear, as well. In fact, the lady that makes their outfits for them actually came to the park, fitted me, and hand made me an outfit. She did have to charge me extra because I am much bigger than the people she usually sews for! Well, this morning was our first time back to the park since our last trip, and the first time for any of them to see my new outfit. When we came into the park, they stopped what they were doing and came over to feel my outfit, say hello, and feel my outfit some more. After that, we walked the park talking to Yesu about our friends and asking Him to reach out to them. Our requests were followed by 2 hours of Ti Jienza, and much coaching from our friends on proper form. It is so nice to be able to lay aside language barriers (none of them speak English) and just be able to play together. For hours we can have this one thing in common; and just play. Our time this morning was cut short when a disagreement happened between the local care taker and one of our friends. We saw that as our sign to bail.

From there we headed to lunch with some friends. One of them is a friend we met last time, and one is a new friend who is learning English for his college degree. We shared a great lunch as we helped our new friend try to grasp the concepts of humor, sarcasm, and English idioms. He was much more confused afterwards than he started out!

After lunch, we caught up with two of our friends from our last trip, Wally and Oscar. These friends met Dad on our last trip, and decided they wanted to be in the family. So our afternoon with them was a sweet time of catching up and encouraging each other in the way of the Master. These two guys speak great English, and have a heart for seeking truth. We spent an hour having instant coffee and sharing life.

They accompanied us to visit with a new member of the family. “Van Gogh” united with our family over the Easter weekend as a result of being involved in a family project on Easter Sunday. Van Gogh had some questions about The Book, and about growing in our family’s traditions. He had some really good questions that we spent a couple of hours answering. Wally and Oscar even jumped in to help us explain some of the answers in Chinese. That was cool! And Van Gogh brought his roommate, Brad, with him. Brad is not yet family, but is considering the truth of The Book, and of Father. All four of them will be traveling with us tomorrow as we go site seeing! We are hoping to help Wally and Oscar grasp more of the family business, and to better understand their roles in the work of the family. We are hoping to connect Brad with Wally and Oscar so that they can mentor him in The Book and in the work of the family. AND, we are hoping Brad will become family. So our big request for Saturday is that Dad will expand the business greatly in this city and in these people.
On my last trip to this country, I had the opportunity to lead a parenting forum where parents got together to compare and contrast parenting in our countries. One of the things that parents here mentioned was that they wished their children knew how to play. With so many people and so few jobs, the best jobs only go to the best students. So, students are pushed from grade school through college to make studying their priority. These parents said they could remember being kids and playing outside until the streetlights came on. This generation of students has never known a life like that. When it comes to a night like tonight, then, students get to experience something rare: a night of playing. We brought Jenga, Ker-Plunk, Uno, Phase 10, Trouble, Sorry, and a couple other games for “Western Game Night.” The students come for the English conversations (all of them can speak English, but need to be better). But they experienced something different. One of our local friends reserves a room on the University campus, and we play and have conversations. And tonight was a great night. The room was PACKED full of students who rotate from game to game, giving them a chance to play many games, but also a chance to meet each of us. I shared pictures of my family, friends, motorcycle, and life in Lubbock. They had many questions! One of them finally said to me, “I think your family is a happy family. Is that true? And why?” And I was able to explain that my family is, indeed, a happy family because of the presence and guidance of my Father, who teaches us to live by loving and serving. It opened a door for me to share with 10 or so students. All in all, it was a GREAT night with many doors opened.

We wrapped up the night with a 1.5 hour massage. In this country, a massage like that costs around $12.50! And it’s different than in America. First, they put all of us in the same room with big screen TV’s, bottles of water, and comfy couches. You remain fully clothed for the massage, which starts with a foot washing. In a barrel of 200 degree water Then, in a systematic manner, the massage giver beats the fool out of you for an hour and a half! It’s like an episode of “I Love Lucy” where they bend you, punch you, pull you, and contort you in ways that make you appreciate the ability to walk afterwards. I’d never had my kidneys massaged before! At one point, the girl working on my back in kneeling on my back, digging her knees into my kidneys while trying to make a wish by ripping my shoulder blades apart. I guess I am getting used to it, though. Tonight’s massage was not as rough as the last one, which did leave me unable to walk!

From there, we headed back to the hotel for 6 hours of sleep before Day 4 begins. Thank you for your tending to our requests and making them your petitions to Dad. You are making a difference in the Far East. Lives are being changed and Father is expanding His business globally. The cool thing is that you get to be a part of it!

Day 2: High Places

2009-05-01T11:36:00.001-05:00

Today is the day that is usually spent getting acclimated to the time change and getting familiar with the culture. So, to off set jet lag and to experience the culture, we went for a hike. We went to a local mountain park called Bei PuTuo. It is a beautiful location that seems to have grown around a Buddhist monastery and several shrines. I shot some cool video. While we were there, we hiked up to some of the shrines, which are built on the peaks of mountains. The belief is that these places are closer to the heavens, so you are closer to the spiritual world. In the old part of The Book, Father tells His children to go into the land that He has promised them. But He tells them to "tear down the high places" as they go. At first, it's just something you read. But once you get here, you see the high places and see people using these high places to try to appease the spirits of their ancestors. They offer fruit, incense, and even burn money at times trying to ensure that their dead ancestors are happy. I'll post some video of the high places when I get home. But it sure puts The Book into a different light to stand in those very places we are called to tear down. And I had a thought while I was standing there. "What if I did tear it down? What would happen?" I realized that if I physically destroyed this spot, the locals who use it would only rebuild it, and probably rally around the incursion upon their faith. So, instead, I spent time talking to Father about it, and spiritually tearing it down, so to speak. My heart was moved today by the amount of effort and futility that is spent in the pursuit of gods who are sub-par and cannot help you. So, will you join me in talking to Dad about helping wandering brothers and sisters to find Him and His light? I don't doubt for a minute that the enemy answers the prayers of these seekers in ways that keeps them mired in their false beliefs. Our calling is to tear down the high places, and I think that begins with speaking to Dad about them and the people drawn to them. But it also begs the question, "what are your high places?" What are the things you rely on to get a better life? Before we can tear down the high places in the lives of others, we must first tear down the high places in our own lives. Do you rely on your charm, wit, personality, money, influence, appearance, etc. to build a better life for you? To those that now follow The Way, The Truth, and The Life, our only source of strength and help should be Him. In relying on other things, we are building high places in our lives! Tear them down.

One of the cool things about today was that instead of hiking down, we discovered a zip line that went across the valley and to the parking lot where we parked. SO, I decided I would do the zip line. It was a blast! I was smoking across the top of this valley attached to two cables! But the even more surprising thing is that LINDSEY said she wanted to do it too! AND SHE DID! It was amazing. I'll post that video at some point, too!

From there, we had 2 amazing meals, some near death experiences in the taxis and bus, and a pretty usual day in this country of over 1 billion people. It's just a little bit past 10 p.m. here, and I have to be p-walking at our park around 6 a.m. so I'll end the update here with a request: talk to Dad about the many people we will get to visit with over the next 24 hours. College students all the way up to senior adults, we have many chances to show them all about the family business. So be sure to yarP for us!

Asia Trip, Spring 2009

2009-04-27T11:41:00.001-05:00

I realized that I hadn't posted any of my entries for the Asia trip here. I got them onto my Facebook. So, here is Day 1's update.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Well, we've arrived in the city! We are checked into our hotel, and I am about to bed down for the night. It's weird having left US soil Tuesday morning (as it feels it's still Tuesday), but bedding down on Wednesday night. All total, in travel time, we were on the move for 23 hours. Trying to stay awake on the train ride from the capital city to our city was brutal. But we are alive and well. Tomorrow starts early for us. We will join American friends for breakfast, and to video conference back home with family so they can see we are well. If you are family, and would like to visit with us, be at THF at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday night! I will be speaking with my students, and afterward, families can say hello. AND, since that is early morning here, I am now off to bed. I'll update more tomorrow!

An Observation From East Asia

2009-04-25T21:55:00.003-05:00

Having just returned from my 3rd trip to Asia, the greatest observation that stands out to me is that The Word is spreading there. One my first trip, I got to be involved in a new convert's observance of ba9tism, or what we call a swim party. On my next trip, I got to participate in an outreach that was sponsored by that student where we met 35 - 45 students, and out of whom 3 or 4 came to faith. During my 3rd trip, while we were sharing with new students, the ones who came to faith on our last trip helped us share, and had been sharing their faith on their own while we've been gone. It was very encouraging to me to see that the kingdom is not just being paid lip service. These new friends take it seriously, and understand that this Good News isn't just for them. Thanks to students like my friend pictured here (whose face I blurred on purpose!), the Good News is being taught to many.

My Recent Travels

2009-04-24T13:34:00.003-05:00

Just a few hours ago, I returned from NE Asia where I hung out with some friends, shared the Good News, and rediscovered some things about home that I often take for granted. I missed the scent of my wife's hair. I love getting hugs from my kids. But when I showed up at Cayla and Jeremiah's school today, she just grabbed a hold of me and wouldn't let go! Never take for granted the hugs of your daughter. Jeremiah wanted to see pictures and here stories while he leaned against me. Never take for granted the lives that are impacted by the telling of your story.

Just a few minutes ago I realized how much I missed MILK, of all things!

I'm in full recovery mode, but am looking forward to narrating the trip here over the next few days.

In the mean time, my right ankle is swollen to the size of my calf, and is very painful. I think it's from the airplane, but I'm not sure. And I am trying to stay awake to force my body back into Texas time. Thanks for all of you who prayed for us, encouraged us, and financially supported us for this trip. Check back over the next few days for pictures, insights, and stories from the trip.

Blind Spots?

2009-04-07T10:48:00.001-05:00

The Holy Week is upon us. I’ve been reading through John’s telling of Jesus’ life during this week. Usually, It’s John 13 that draws me in. But today, a passage in John 16 really caught my eye. It’s the interaction between Jesus and the Disciples in 16: 25-33. All of the events leading up to this moment, the miracles, the wisdom, the transformation of lives, and NOW they believe. I laughed out loud when I read Jesus’ words in v. 31, “You believe at last!” I imagine Him laughing as He says it! Like He’s saying, “FINALLY!” But what is it about this most recent discourse of Jesus that brings the Disciples to the place of finally believing? What exactly is it that turns the lights on for them? So I started really digging into this verse, and discovered that the Greek frames it as a question, “Do you now believe?” The Greek could actually go either way, but most see it as a question. I’m not sure why the NIV departs from the NASB at this point, but anyway…It seems that Jesus has shifted into “Yoda Mode,” and is asking them a question that will soon show them that they answered wrong, to some extent.

Although they do believe, and probably more so than before, Jesus begins to tell them that the events of the coming days will show them their lack of belief. Isn’t that how it seems to go for us? At the moment we think we have it all figured out, God awakens us to something that reminds us we don’t! Which brought me to a moment of reflection: What are the areas of my life that I think I have it all figured out? Where are the places that I neglect out of arrogance? And what will it take for God to turn my head enough to see something more clearly than before? Rather than assume that the Holy Week consists of this or that, seek out the Christ who was crucified and ask Him to enlighten you further into the sacrifice He made for you. Ask Him to do for you what He did for the Disciples by pointing out an area of your faith where you are going to falter. Just as the Disciples thought they had it figured out, Jesus say, “Oh yeah? Well, you’re all going to desert me in the coming days.” What are the areas in our lives we are in danger of deserting Jesus?

Pace Bene - Jason

Changing the parameters

2009-03-09T12:35:00.002-05:00

Tonight I will be doing an experiment with my students. We are changing the parameters of a meeting we've been doing for a year. We're changing locations, changing format, and changing their role in the meeting. It's an attempt to get them to do more than think outside the box. It's an attempt to get them out of the box. Hopefully, by 7:30 tonight, I'll have a handful of adventurers and not a handful of whiners. Although, after 20 years of pastoral ministry, I anticipate the latter.

My goal is to shift the parameters of how they see their spiritual formation. As we continue to read "The Tangible Kingdom," we are moving into a section on doing. We've laid the foundation for why, now we come to the how. If you haven't read the book, I highly recommend it.

For those of you reading this, though, let me challenge you to change your parameters. Take something you would normally do in your office, home, or an otherwise alone spot (reading, prayer, study, meeting, etc.) and take that activity to a local hang out. It can be the Mall, a coffee shop, or town square. See if it changes how you do what you are doing. And, if at all possible, take someone with you!

Belonging ENABLES Believing

2009-02-18T14:46:00.001-06:00

I've been a pastor for a long time. I started as an intern at Colonial Hills, where my youth pastors, Robert and Bart, and my youth sponsors (The Smiths, The Routens, and The Cochrans) invested in me greatly. I owe them all so much.

And over the years, I've served in all kinds of churches in various positions. I've been a youth intern, part-time Youth Minister in country churches, Youth/Music Minister in a country church and a couple small town First Baptist churches. I served as a Youth Pastor at a big First Baptist where the staff bailed and left me and a friend trying to keep the wheels from falling off! That was fun. I've been the Youth Pastor at a couple of big (1,000 members) churches, and am currently serving two churches that are very opposite. One averages around 800 in attendance on Sunday morning. I am the Associate Pastor there, working along side one of my closest friends and a great Pastor, Mike, whom I've known for almost the entirety of my ministry. The other church I currently serve in as Lead Pastor averages 20 people, meets on Sunday night in a coffee shop, and is composed mostly of friends gathered along the way. All that to say, "I've seen a lot of churches and a LOT of philosophies of being church."

And one thing that keeps coming up is the shift in paradigm, or lack there of. In my generation, our culture had a basic understanding of church and to some extent Christianity. The general way most of us back in the day came to Christ was by coming to some sort of church activity. Even though I came to Christ through a friend sharing with me, I heard and experienced the Gospel at the Youth Events I was attending. In that day, you could say, "If you believe, you belong." And it was true. The moment I took a step towards Christ, the youth group embraced me and made a HUGE difference in my life. So many of those people I listed above were instrumental in that.

But the shift has come in this: most people aren't going to go to church to have their spiritual needs met. There is no longer a basic understanding between our culture and our churches. If anything, there is an institutional distrust of the church that permeates our culture. And yet, even here in Lubbock, TX., I watch church building after church building pop up in hopes that someone will be drawn there. Don't get me wrong! I am not anti building. I am anti "let's build a building so we don't have to go out there and be the church." Just this week I have gotten information from 3 new churches that are putting on a show, opening a building, and hoping to attract those who need Jesus.

For those of you who don't know Lubbock, here's some statistics. Lubbock county is home to 255,000 people. Of those 255,000 people churches report around 120,000 are on their "role" as members. However, statistics show that the average church actually has about 37% of their membership in actual attendance, meaning that (and this is a high estimate) about 50,000 of the people of Lubbock County actually are involved with a church, leaving 205,000 people unchurched, dechurched, or poorly churched. Lubbock county has somewhere in the neighborhood of 300 evangelical churches last time I checked. Those 300 churches actually share the 50,000 attenders in one of the most prolific "church-hopping" communities I've ever been in. Bottom line: every new church that pops up with a building and hopes of drawing people to their "show" will only manage to segment the church hoppers and bight off their "market share" for a while.

Lubbock needs followers of Christ building relationships with the other 205,000 AND living Jesus-styled relationships with those they befriend. The paradigm is now (and Barry says has been for a long LONG time) Belonging ENABLES Believing. Think it through with me. Jesus was greatly criticized for being the friend of gluttons and sinners. He saw the value of reaching people by influence and relationship rather than the hopes that the local religious elite would homilize eloquently enough to draw them in. Where ever it is you are, whether it's Lubbock or China, Christ is calling you today to GO out to your spheres of influence and be Jesus for people. Build relationships. Be generous. Be sincere. Love deeply. Live passionately. And don't place your hope in a building or a program. Build a life that tells people they belong and includes them. In the words of St. Francis Assisi, "Preach the Gospel always and, when necessary use words."

Quiet

2009-02-16T11:10:00.003-06:00

Today I am keenly aware of how noisy my life is. I spent the weekend with some friends at a secluded cabin in the Sangre de Cristo mountains. No TV. No phones. No Radio. Of course, we went snow boarding, shopping in Santa Fe, and ate out quite a bit. But when I walked in the door to my house yesterday, the TV was on and the kids were being kids. The dog was barking and jumping. My phone was dinging at me about text messages. And as I sat on the couch after six hours in the car, I could feel myself becoming agitated. That's when it hit me that the amount of sound around me was the source of my agitation. I'm not faulting the kids for being kids, nor am I saying I couldn't have turned the TV off. It was just an eye opening moment. The fact of the matter is that I LOVE to hear my children playing, being kids. There are many TV shows I enjoy. And I even moderately enjoy our dog (some times). But I need to have more of the quiet. I need more of those moments in the recliner in front of a crackling fire reading a good book. I need to turn off the phone/TV/computer/iPod more often. It was good for my soul.

And then I need to learn how to smoothly transition from stillness to necessary noise without losing my mind!

This Is The Heights

2009-02-10T09:40:00.000-06:00

If you'd like to see what we do at The Heights Fellowship click this link:
http://www.theheightsfellowship.org/connect/page.php?id=45
There's 2 videos there to check out. I'm particularly proud of the THF Power Team. YIKES!

Great Timing!

2009-02-02T11:03:00.001-06:00

I love Google Maps and their "man on the street" photos of actual locations. If you look my address up, and do the street view, you can see my truck, my father-in-law's old truck, and our house still has 3 trees instead of 2 in the front. But this one is classic. Be sure to move up the street until you are right beside the empty field. Then look at the two guys in the field:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=8+sampsonia+way,+pittsburgh,+pa&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.444078,68.730469&ie=UTF8&ll=40.457658,-80.007548&spn=0,359.977727&z=16&iwloc=addr&layer=c&cbll=40.457682,-80.007441&panoid=5i_6kRv5DOq4JvJJ12sn9w&cbp=12,289.8533061684086,,0,5

GREAT TIMING!

Morning Bell

2009-01-20T16:48:00.003-06:00

My friend, Ian Adams, is an Abbott in Oxford, England. He has a daily e-mail he's been doing called "Morning Bell." During the season of Epiphany, he's collected the thoughts and ideas of various theologians and shared his insight with me as a call to deeper spirituality. Today's really impacted me and I want to share it with you.

Metropolitan Anthony says: "we are a great deal more absent than God is."

See your prayer today as simply being present to God; who is closer than we can imagine.

Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh [1914-2003] was the Archbishop of the Russian Orthodox Patriarchal Church in Great Britain and Ireland. To read more on Metropolitan Anthony, you can go here: http://www.metropolit-anthony.orc.ru/eng/

More about Ian: http://ianadams.info/Site/Welcome.html
Ian's Faith Community: http://www.maybe.org.uk

The Only Necessary Resolution

2009-01-14T11:28:00.004-06:00

Has it really been that long since I posted? WOW! The flu really kicked my butt for the last half of December into the first week of January. I didn't really get over it until about 4 days ago. Everything during that time is kinda a blur.

Anywho, I'm excited about the new year. I'm usually not a resolution person, so the New Year just brings a sense of anticipation for me. But this new year was a little different. I started contemplating what I could do differently. I even thought it would be a good idea to see what the Scriptures suggest I do differently. Boy, there's a lot! But the more I began to dig, the more I realized that the changes I'd make are ones that God has to make... It seemed pointless to me to make a resolution to do God's job for Him! So, I really began to dig in for my part. What can I really do? I came across a Scripture I'd read before, but it jumped at me this time. The Scripture is John 6: 28-29. Some folks have come to Jesus and basically asked about making a resolution that would please God. 28Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?" 29Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent." When you couple that with Galatians 5: 22-23, Philippians 1:6, 2 Cor. 5:17, Galatians 6:15 it becomes clear that every area of my life that could be better would be better if I'd just let God be God to me in that area. If I would simply allow my belief in the one God has sent to consume my need to be my own deity, then those areas that need "resolution" would be resolved! So, I made one resolution this year. I will believe. I will believe more, more passionately, more consumingly, more deeply. I am resolved to believe!

Like Father Like Son

2008-12-23T09:26:00.004-06:00

I found myself in the midst of a cool moment yesterday at Daybreak Coffee.

You just never know.

2008-12-01T09:45:00.003-06:00

It's become a tradition for us to host our Asian friends at our home for Thanksgiving. Last year, it was Ken & Miho, Richard, and Jack & his family. I know those names don't look Asian, but everyone except Miho has taken a Western name to spare us the embarrassment of trying to pronounce them. Anyway, this year, Jack's family couldn't make it, so we invited the new Yamagata chef, Lewis. Lewis is a native of China. He actually lived near Marcus and Kat. Lewis and I were talking and it turns out his mom is from the city where Kat and Marcus live. He was excited to meet someone who has experienced the Night Market!

Anyway, as they were leaving around 3 on Thursday afternoon, Miho stayed behind while the guys all piled into the car. She stayed behind to tell us that Lewis' dad had passed away on Monday, and getting to share a family meal had meant the world to him. She thanked us profusely, and then made her exit.

We never would have known of Lewis' loss if she hadn't told us. It reminded me that every moment is an opportunity to impact someone's life. We never really know what's going on with them. By simply being hospitable, polite, or even generous, God can do things that we remain unaware of. The author of Hebrews (I lean towards it being Luke, btw), wrote, "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." (Heb. 13:2) To do that means making the most of every encounter. And to do that means laying aside yourself and your agenda for a higher purpose. Our daily mantra needs to sound similar to what Jesus told His disciples in John 4: "My food is to do the will of my father." Especially in this holiday season, learn to breathe that simple phrase of obedience. In doing so, the least you may accomplish is passing a test to see how you would treat a stranger. The best you may do is to be Jesus in the life of someone who is hurting and desperate for hope. Either way, you express the great love for Jesus that we say we have for Him.

Peace

When Good Choirs Go Bad

2008-11-11T19:41:00.003-06:00

Holy Cow! You've gotta check this out! http://michaelkelleyministries.wordpress.com/2008/11/11/the-future-of-church-choir/. If you thought "The Renewed Mind" was rough, you'll love this! Try to catch these blue hairs ridin dirty.

A "New" Word

2008-11-07T11:00:00.002-06:00

I'm reading "The Tangible Kingdom," by Hugh Halter and Matt Smay, and in my reading this morning, I stumbled upon a word that is not new, per se, but is just the word that I needed to read today. It's a word that comes closest to expressing how I feel. I've had this feeling for some time, and couldn't quite put my finger on it until just a few moments ago. The moment was so impacting that I put the book down and came straight here to get this thought "on paper."

The word is "tension." Here of late I have had this feeling of unrest, imbalance, or an uneasy feeling that may even be pouring out through physical expression. My pilgrimage over the last 3 years has brought me to a place of question and unrest. I had hoped it would do just the opposite. Yet I find myself more so there than when I began the current leg of my pilgrimage. In spite of a new focus, new methodology, new resources and friends, I still have not seen people coming to Christ the way I had hoped. And that has fostered this tension that I know understand. Perhaps you feel it. Perhaps you long for something different. Maybe, like me, you have this gut-level tension that longs to see other Sojourners find faith and a community that brings them life.

So, what do you do with tension? I could get a spiritual massage, I guess, and placate the longing by thinking about the good we've done in the last three years. But I think I am going to do the opposite. Often times, after a good work out, my muscles experience a tension from the exertion. And I have found, at least for me, that working the tension out in another workout helps. Now, to figure out what that looks like spiritually... Any thoughts?

"Life is an occasion. Rise to it."

2008-10-29T14:22:00.003-05:00

I love movies. And "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium" is one that I will watch over and over. Dustin Hoffman's title character captivates me because he embodies wisdom and play at the same time. The funny thing is that his funny speech pattern was something he came up with as a joke, but everyone loved it so much that they kept it. Anyway, Cayla (my 6 year old daughter) and I were curled up on the couch early Sunday morning watching Mr. Magorium when 2 things happened. The first is that Mr. Magorium (who I've quoted before) is talking to his young protege, Mahoney (played by Natalie Portman) when he reminds her that "Life is an occasion. Rise to it!" I had to pause the movie and write that down. The most awesome thing about the quote is that Jesus and Paul both taught the same thing 2,000 years ago. Jesus reminds us that He has set us free and given us the ultimate life. To live anything less is to miss the precious gift he provided for us in this life. Paul said the same thing when he reminded us to train our bodies as an athlete running for the prize. Finish Strong! Don't miss out on the life that Christ has provided. It was an amazing moment as Cayla and I talked about that very thing.

Then the second thing happened. Jason Bateman's character (they call him "Mutant") reminds Mahoney that she just needs to believe in herself and she will be successful. Cayla looked up at me and said, "Daddy, she needs to believe in God and not herself to be successful." Then, after a short pause, she nodded approval to her own thought, and went back to watching the movie. Boy, she was RIGHT ON! And there in lies the tension that I think we all live in. Celebrating the life that Christ has given to us without ever taking our eyes off of Him. If you are like me, when things are going right, or going well, you take the credit for it and revel in the achievement and recognition. It's only when things get "not so good" that we look to Christ. It seems like it's only in the dark times that I lift my eyes up and look away from myself. Paul lived in the same tension. He knew there were things he should be doing but wasn't. He knew there were things he shouldn't be doing but was. And in that tension, Paul lifts his eyes in recognition that the only resolution for this is to realize that any life he lived in his physical body was to be lived for Christ; lived out in faith and a tribute to the One who gave that life to him. Good or bad, up or down, your life is an occasion given to you by Christ to rise to in honor and worship of Him. My problem is that I usually only get half of the equation right. My little girl's reflection on the movie is what I leave with you today: don't believe in yourself...believe in the God who dwells in you and thru you who abundantly blesses and cares for you. Believe in the Jesus of the Cross who sacrificed His life so God would be exalted and we would reap the benefit. Have that mind in you that was in Christ, who richly celebrated life with service and who always rose to the occasion.

One of those days...

2008-10-20T11:51:00.002-05:00

For me, as I've mentioned before, Sunday is "GO Day!" Yesterday was no exception. I was at the building at 7 a.m. getting the LIFE Group info table organized and moving some stuff around. Band rehearsal kicks it at 7:30 a.m. At 8:30 I grab a quick breakfast and pray with the band. 9:00 we do the music for the first service. 9:45 found me printing pictures for a booth I was manning for an annual gathering of local churches. 10:30 hugged my wife and kids since I hadn't seen them yet that day. 10:45 we started the next service. 12:30 I left the building to go have lunch with my students at Taco Bell. By 1:45 I was at Calvary Baptist Church setting up the Ignite booth, which I manned until 5:00. By 5:15 I was getting everything ready for The Journey's gathering at J&B. 7:30 we wrapped up and headed to dinner, which we do every Sunday night. I was home by 9:00 and watching Seattle get trounced by Tampa Bay, and asleep by 1:00. It was a crazy day, but in the middle of it all I got to talk to A TON of people. And it wasn't just talk, there were some meaningful conversations, and the sharing of some lives that made the day really special. I guess that's what gets me through those busy days: I get so engrossed in the conversations that I don't realize I've been on my feet for 7 hours, or haven't eaten in 5 hours. And the cool thing is that each conversation reminds me that people really do long to be connected, to be known, and to know others. It's just a matter of being where they are to connect with them. Even this morning, I had a great conversation with Rick and April at J&B. Although yesterday was an 18 hour day, it was a great day. I'm finding myself having more of "those days" than bad days, or even boring/uneventful days. Don't get me wrong, just like my friend Courtney said last night, those days when we get a break are great. But I get my batteries recharged with people...So, I'm off to have lunch with 10 folks right now! Peace!

The Joy of Childhood

2008-10-14T11:54:00.004-05:00

My kids LOVE to spar with each other. They put on the gear and go at each other like mad, mini kung fu masters. But they giggle and laugh the WHOLE time!

My Potato

2008-09-29T11:01:00.005-05:00

I don't know a lot about Spanish, so feel free to correct me if this is wrong, but a friend of mine was showing me this shirt that says, "Mi papa lo arregla todo." The shirt is supposed to translate to say, "My daddy can fix anything." But, if I am right, without the accent over the last "a" in "papa" (like this mi papá ) it really says either, "My potato can fix anything" or "My Pope can fix anything." Whichever the case, isn't it funny how different the message can be if even one little piece is missing? It reminds me to communicate clearly and take nothing for granted! The sub-text says "For nothing is impossible for God," as it quotes Luke 1:37. How true it is! If God has given you a potato that can fix anything it really is miraculous.

See You At The Pole

2008-09-24T10:08:00.003-05:00

As I stood across town video taping students at Coronado High, my children met at their flag pole and prayed for their campus. They also prayed for students around the world who will be sharing Christ with those who need to hear.

Spontaneous Worship & Uprising

2008-09-23T09:25:00.002-05:00

So, I've been sitting and thinking about a somewhat spontaneous (probably more instantaneous) worship event. I'm wondering if there are some that would drop what they are doing with a days notice to be somewhere public to share in song, Scriptures, and prayer. Are you one of those who would? If you are, leave a comment and join the revolution.

Whatever Happened to Ray Boltz?

2008-09-15T02:18:00.005-05:00

Many of you may be too young to remember Ray Boltz. He authored several spiritual hits in the 80's and 90's. Among them, "Thank You" and "I Pledge Allegiance To The Lamb." Well, as I was reading Los' blog last night, I found a post about Mr. Boltz coming out of the closet. So, I did some looking around, and found an article. You can click here to read for yourself.

Asia Pictures

2008-09-13T02:09:00.004-05:00

I've posted some of my pictures from Asia here:

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=51745&l=1baf7&id=587850145

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=52779&l=94755&id=587850145

You can see the exotic foods video segment at my youtube site:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWlKKVFOXLY

Some Thoughts

2008-09-10T04:34:00.002-05:00

I am sitting in Houston International Airport (or Bush Int'l, as it is now called), and it is 4:30 in the morning. The rest of the team is sound asleep on the floor around me. Someone had to stay up to watch the luggage, right?

Anyway, I wanted to put this down before I forget it. The biggest thought or lesson I am bringing home from our Asian experience is that there are MANY people from our country who love God and have answered His Call to go to the corners of the world. They sacrifice holidays with family. They sacrifice their favorite foods. They sacrifice television and radio that they can understand. They live humbly and serve selflessly. In some places, like the place we were in, they even have to maintain a low profile and work in secret. Too often I take for granted what I have here in the States. I can speak the name of Jesus without repercussions. I can gather with my local church and lift up songs. I can pray for and be prayed for openly. I can engage in the work that Christ has called me to without worrying that it might cost me the chance to stay in this country. I can share with people here without fear that they or their family could be imprisoned or killed if they say "yes" to Jesus. And yet, there are days when I feel alone, stifled, like I'm the only one who gets it. That's not true here, but for our friends in foreign lands, they are alone, stifled, and they know they will remain so.

So, here's to my heroes. For all of you on the front lines, who give and give and give, who sacrifice and work to advance the kingdom at risk of peril, loneliness, and discouragement; THANK YOU! You are an inspiration to me, and a constant encouragement to push harder, reach farther, and to never give up. May God bless you with His presence and with the opportunity to see the fruit from the seeds you sow. And know that you are in my thoughts and prayers daily.

And to all of us in open countries who feel like we've got it tough...maybe we do. But it's nothing compared to what our friends overseas deal with daily. So lift your eyes up and get to the task. Let us run with endurance, knowing that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Strive for the prize.

The Asian Experience - The In-Between Day

2008-09-07T02:23:00.001-05:00

Sorry! I thought I sent this and just realized that I didn't! This is the Thursday night and Friday morning update. The one I just sent that is day 4/5 begins after this one!

What an exhausting day. I will try to update you on the happenings, but may get things a bit blurry (just like my eyes at the moment). At least the night before ended with a 1 hour massage. I use the word "massage" loosely because it is more like a 1 hour torture session. The really cool thing is that the environment is very festive. There were 7 of us Maegorans (the Chinese word for Americans), and we all got to share a room. The Chinese massage is a fully clothed event, so no issues with coed mingling. There are 3 42" plasma TV's on the wall in this room where our 7 plush loungers are lined along one wall. Each toruturer, err, I mean therapist comes in with a huge wooden barrel with water and spices to wash your feet. The water is HOT, so my massage starts off with her boiling the skin off of my feet. Then she lotions and spices my right foot and wraps it in a super heated towel and begins to BEAT THE FOOL out of my left foot. For 20 minutes she pounds the mess out of my feet. And now, 24 hours later, the arch of my left foot is so sore i cannot touch it! She continues to massage my head and shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes, by rubbing, and then punching, and then slapping me. It's amazing that I am still alive. And yet, by the time the Grand Inquisitor is done with you, you feel refreshed. It's pretty amazing. And the best part if that the whole thing (including green tea) cost me 75 RMB, or right at $9.00 USD! Absolutely amazing.

So, we get up this morning and head to the park as we have every day. Our usual ti jienza group was there, so we jumped in. Everyone that is traveling with me has improved at this sport. I bought 12 or 13 of the shuttlecock to use with our kiddos when I get home. As we parted ways with them after 45 minutes of playing, I asked where the lao sher (teacher) bought his traditional gae from and found out it was custom made by a local lady. One of these folks spoke English, so he helped me find out how I could get a couple of outfits like his. All of the people playing were sure she could make me some outfits, but that they would take extra material for me since I am fat! They are very to the point here! So, I made arrangements to meet my English speaking older friend, another friend, and the lady that makes the outfits back at the park at 2:00 that afternoon. I handed out DVD's that have the story of hope, and brochures that share the story and we departed to go do some power walking at the campus.

After the park, Michael and Lindsey went to a local school to play with Chinese children. They had a chance to play and speak with the kids. Lindsey has some great pictures that I will insert once I get a few. They had an incredible time. Lindsey fell in love with one like pudgy boy named "Lewis." Lindsey decided he as a chunky monkey and she just wanted to squeeze him to death!

We met back up for lunch, and then it was off to the park for my fitting. While I was being fitted, the rest of the team made some appointments to have dinner with some of the University students. I was very proud of them for heading off without me to do the things that needed done. Dinner was filled with significant conversations as they showed the students how to make these beaded bracelets we have. The beads help tell about Dad's plan for us, and his cost to help us overcome our birth condition. From what they have told me, it was a good time, and the conversations were deeply impacting for a few.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of town, I was being told that the outfits would cost even more than they thought because of my girth. I just love the Chinese bluntness. My English speaking friend said he had the afternoon free, so I asked him to help me shop for Cayla. He agreed, and we headed off into the city. I must say at this point that I have really been excited about my ability to get around and take care of things while I've been here. I was very worried about getting around, ordering food/buying things, but have done alright. We've only needed to hand our cell phones to drivers a couple of times so our Chinese speaking friends could get us where we needed to be.

Anyway, as we shopped for Cayla, I shared about dad, and how His son has some wonderful things in store for us. We talked for a bit about that, and about the son's teachings. My friend said that he reads the book every day, and that he thinks that The Son is a great teacher, but that he just can't believe all of what he reads. We camped on that issue for a bit, focusing on The Son as an honest man and good teacher. If, then, he is an honest man and good teacher, then he must also be what he claims to be. If he is not what he claims to be, then he is a liar and not a good teacher. My friend agreed and said that he would think on this further. We parted ways, and I headed off to finish shopping on my own and headed to the bank to exchange money for the rest of the trip. I hope that he will think on that, and that he will find the truth.

Well, that's all for now. I will post more later!
Peace,

Jase

The Asia Experience - Days 4 & 5

2008-09-07T02:00:00.003-05:00

Friday night here found us at a couple of houses with some University students who want to practice their english skills. There were 14 students at the house where Lindsey and I were; and there were about the same number where Michael and Rebecca were hanging out. We ate some American food prepared by an American friend here, and sat around and spoke English with our students. The theme for our English Corner was "Home Town." We answered questions about our home towns, and then split up guys and gals for more directed time of sharing about our home. It was a great time to share that, although my family and friends are in Texas, my home is not on earth. I got to share the story, share about my family, and share about the reason I travel in this world. I want to invite them to my real home, and ask them to be in my family. It was an awesome time that led to some great stuff on Saturday. After the English corner, I was talking with Lindsey, and she said the girls had some really deep, well thought, and specific questions about our "not-in-this-world" home. She was very encouraged by the questions, and feels that some definite steps towards the kingdom where taken. Michael and Rebecca shared similar experiences from their English corner, as well.

After the English corner, I called two of our new Chinese friends and asked them if they would like to accompany me to sight see on Saturday. They said they would be honored. The other English corner produced two students to travel with us, too. So, Saturday morning, we all met at the train station at 6:45 and took a 2.5 hour train ride to a city on the coast. The train ride provided us lots of time to get to know our new friends, and share our stories with them. We also got to hear their stories. Our friends have all adopted American names. They go by Wayne, Owen, Tina, and Nancy. We went to the place where the Great Wall began. It's called the Old Dragon's Head, and it begins on the Bohai Sea. I will have some great pictures to post of our travels. We also visited some caves that the rebel armies used to hide from the emperor during a revolt from the 1300's. It was cool to walk on the Great Wall, thru the Great Wall, and under the Great Wall.

On the train trip back, conversations turned to important family business. We found out that Own already knows and loves Dad. So does Tina. I believe Wayne met dad yesterday, and will be telling others about dad. I'm not sure about Nancy. I know she heard our family story, and knows what our family is. I am sure that she will have more encounters in the near future that will help figure all of that out for her. It was an AWESOME day! Our American friends who live here will stay in touch with our Chinese friends to help them learn from the family book and become more like dad. I will never forget what Owen and Wayne (they are room-mates who read the book together every day) said as we got ready to leave the train. "This has been the greatest day of our lives, and we will never forget you or your gift to us. We hope that you will visit us again so that we can continue to be friends." And they really meant it. As we parted ways at the train station, Wayne began to cry. It was one of those moments where no one wanted to leave, but we all knew it was time.

From there, we went to dinner with Marcus and Kat at the Sizzling Skillet. It is SOOOOO GOOOOD! They serve the meal on skillets like fajitas are served on in the states. It was a very good meal. I left the restaurant to play ping pong with a friend and dream/envision our next time to visit here. The others went back to the hotel, and the girls were asleep around 9 p.m. I got in around 11:30 after having been beat like a drum by american and chinese friends.

Today, we gathered with other family to celebrate Dad like many of you will do on Sunday morning. We sang songs and celebrated what Dad is doing here. I shared a word of encouragement with those who will stay. They are my heroes. I shared about boasting in weakness, and not worrying about those moments when they feel inadequate. Those inadequate moments are times for Dad to make us strong and do the impossible. It was an emotional moment for us. The realization of Dad's goodness was overwhelming for some. For me, the emotional moment was the realization that the windows were open and compliments to Dad about His character and His goodness were pouring from the apartment. There are so many things that you and I take for granted in our country. Dad reminded me today of my great freedom, and of my great laziness in doing the work at home. My friends here sacrifice, wrestle, and struggle DAILY to get the word out. But I am inconvenienced by having to be kind at home? Anyway, I'll share more on that in my trip summary that I am working on.

In just a few minutes, Rebecca and I will be meeting with local parents to share parenting methods and customs. Or methods and customs are shaped by The Book, and we hope to impart wisdom and truth. And the, we meet back up with the rest of the team to head for Beijing as we begin our 3 day trip home. Monday will be sight seeing, and Tuesday/Wednesday will be reflection and travel. It seems like we just got here and it is time to go. LOL. One of the American children here told us we should come back when we could stay for 7 months or even 7 years! And each one of should really consider that.

Thank you for all you have done to make this trip possible. I will be sharing in the next/final update about the results of the trip. You will be amazed at what father has done here. And your prayers help in that. Keep on keeping on, and remember the struggle of family here as you walk your journey.

See you soon,

Jason Bishop - weary traveler

Asia - Day 3

2008-09-05T03:38:00.001-05:00

Last night we had board game night with 40 local university students, and we had a BLAST! When the evening concluded, they all hung out and continued to visit with us. No one wanted to go home. Several of the students exchanged phone numbers with us, and made plans to spend some time with us today. From there, we went to Aaron Burger, where the team had pizza and burgers! WOOT! It was a GREAT evening, but a late one

Today we saw many great things. We were planning on doing a video conference home to talk with the youth group, and to say hello to our families, but we didn't want to miss our daily time of Ti Jienza with the senior adults at the park, so we decided we'd leave early. We arrived at the park at 6 a.m. and found our group just forming. In anticipation of our coming back, the ladies had invited their Lao shur (teacher) to come and participate with us. Several people who walked by mentioned what a "jing hao lao shur" he is. He was probably mid 70's, and could handle the ti jienza like a mad fool! It was AWESOME to watch. But what's really cool is that the ladies invited him to come play with us. Tomorrow morning will be our last day with them, so we are taking gifts to give them. Each gift is a DVD and a pamphlet that has good news in it or on it. Ask Dad to make sure they get watched, and that these gifts would impact the future of our friends.

We left the park to go do the video chat with our friends back home. We had a really good time, and were very encouraged by each person's smiles, presence, and support. Thank you to Austin Mc, who made that magic moment possible. Our families came early and stayed late to visit with us live via the internet. It was a sweet time.

From there, it was lunch with local American friends followed by an afternoon of eating and shopping with some new friends who are not like minded yet. Thru the course of the afternoon, we shopped, ate, and shared Dad's truth with them. We also touched base with some of the university students from game night and made plans to hang out with them. I'll fill you in on that in a bit. As a team, we went with some new Asian friends to a restaurant that serves JZ BBQ. We were served scorpions on a stick, goat eye-balls, grasshoppers, chicken kidneys, silk worms, and much MUCH more. I video taped the meal and will include it in the final video that I'll post when we get back. Be SURE to watch me eat exotic, and watch the other team members nearly lose their lunch! Yes, I ate scorpion, silk worm, fried grasshopper, chicken kidneys, goat eye-balls, and all the rest.

After dinner, Rebecca, Michael, and Lindsey headed back to the campus where they met up with some of the guys and girls from last night. After some ti jienza, they shared and had some great conversation. Two of the girls have asked for copies of the book to read, and all of them said that they would come hang out with us on Friday night at the English corner we will be helping with. Ask Dad to bring them, and to continue to draw them. The conversations were deep, direct, and very encouraging.

While the three amigos where at the campus, I continued to spend time with the man who took us shopping and to dinner. We stopped off at Aaron Burger for a Coke on our way to the Night Market. While sitting at Aaron Burger, I got the opportunity to share the entire good news message with him. We dialogued for a long time on how to know you can trust Dad, how you can feel/hear/interact with Dad, and what a follower's life should look like. I thought that he was very close to joining the family, but sensed he was not quite ready to make a commitment. He did commit to ask Dad to prove He is real. My friend is seeking, and has encountered Dad before, but just isn't sure Dad isn't a fabrication of the human mind. It was a long, good talk that actually went from 6:15 up to about 8 p.m. Please ask Dad to show my friend that He is real. I am so encouraged by the conversation that I can't really sleep. But I will as soon as I'm done typing this. It's 11:52 p.m. and I still have video to capture. I'll update you on the massages (1 hour for $9) and our last day at the park when I do tomorrow's update

Zi Jian.
Jason Bishop

Asia - Day 2

2008-09-03T20:26:00.000-05:00

Ni Hao! That is the traditional Chinese greeting that is equivalent to our "hello." It's funny because when people here see Americans, they yell out, "Hello!" to which we respond, "Ni Hao!" They always look shocked or amused that we can say hello in their language...even though they themselves can say hello in ours!

Anyway, today has been a great day to this point. We got rolling at 6 a.m. heading to the park to do what we call "power walking." Power walking is an exercise in talking to Dad while we walk around. We talk to Him about the people we see. We listen for His directions. We sometimes quote His Book as we walking, knowing that the things we are saying and reading have never been spoken in these places before. It's an awe inspiring thing to speak the name of His Son for the first time in these places. It weighs heavy on my heart that His Name is not known here. But, it weighs heavy on my heart, too, that His Name is so taken for granted in our country. Such a great name should never be ignored, abandoned, or abused.

While at the park this morning, we played Jien za with some Senior Adults. Now, first you must know that the park is full every morning with Senior Adults who are in better shape than you or me. They are doing Tae Chi, sword practice, martial arts, and other highly energetic things. Some sections have places for stretching, and the senior adults can do amazing things like stretch their legs over their heads! I have been amazed. So, when I say we "played" with senior adults, understand that these people are athletes that could rival most 30 somethings! Jien za is like hacky sack, but is played with a really big badminton birdie that is flat at the weighted end instead of having a rubber ball. The name Jien za literally means "kicking the feathers." And these older ladies could kick from behind their heads, do scissor kicks, and had amazing speed. We looked like toddlers trying to hacky with university students. It was a lot of fun, though, and we are invited back in the morning. Over the next couple of days, I want to learn how to tell them the name of The Son in their language, and be able to part ways each day by telling them that Dad loves them very much.

From there, we met up with friends and went to a Buddhist mountain that has many shrines and worship places. It was quite a hike to the top. We actually rode a chair lift 3/4 of the way up. At the top, we had a great conversation with new friends about Father, and how much He loves His children. We also had a great talk about the spiritual deception of other world views and spiritual oppression. Perhaps our new friend and his wife will have their eyes opened soon. Please talk to Dad about that. After the mountain, our new friends took us shopping, and we got to experience this city's version of Wal-Mart! It was pure chaos! But I found a box of cherries for $80! They have to import them. Of course, I didn't buy them since I hate cherries. Some things are expensive here, and other things are stupid cheap! We charted a bus today to take us (4) and our friends (3) to the mountain. It was a 4 mile trip, and the bus driver waited 3 hours for us to finish, and then brought us the 4 miles back into town all for $14. Go figure.

We are about to head out for an evening of board games with local university students. We invited our friends from today to come, and we hope they will. We will be playing Twister, Sorry, Genga, Trouble, Monopoly, and Uno with about 40 college students. Talk to Dad over the next couple of hours for us. We would like for Him to grant us favor with the new people we will meet. We would also ask that He gives us words to speak and ears to hear as we have these important conversations.

For those of you at THF, we will be doing a live broad cast for the youth on Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. It's a time for them to ask questions and hear about Dad's work here. Feel free to drop in, but please remember that this time is for them. If we have further time, we can answer questions from you, but I'd like the students to have first crack at it.

As always, you are so very important to this trip. I am thankful for your support and look forward to the great things that Dad will do; knowing that you have made them possible. I'll send more update stuff when we have time!

Peace,
Jase

Asia - Day 1

2008-09-03T20:24:00.001-05:00

We are nearing the end of our first day in JZ, and have had an incredible day. Michael, Lindsey, Rebecca, and I have had a great time learning our way around the city, and sharing some meals with like-minded people. We are going to the local university in a little bit to spend some time power walking and meeting university students. I will be posting some pictures on my blog as soon as I have a reliable internet connection. My blog is www.thebishopsjiggymusings.blogspot.com. You should be able to check there in the next day or two for some pictures. I'm attaching a picture to this message for you to see some of what we've seen today. My friend, Austin, will be helping me upload some video footage to YouTube in the next few days, too.
If you would, please take the time to talk to Dad about a couple of things on our behalf.
1) Ask Him to give us some guidance towards potential partners in our endeavor. He knows so much better than we do who we should be spending our time with. Along those lines, we could use His help in communicating with those whose language we don't speak. We spent the afternoon on a cultural scavenger hunt with a list of things to do on our own with no Chinese speakers with us. We managed to get the list done in just over an hour, but it helped us realize 2 things. One is that we can communicate when we take the time and really think things thru. But the other thing we realized is that if we can find English speakers, it goes much better! We could use His help with that.
2) As you know, we are 13 hours ahead of most of you, and jet lag is affecting a couple of folks on the team. I am doing great. Michael and Lindsey seem to be doing okay. Rebecca is wiped out. She's fine, but it would be great for some outside help in adjusting. Of course, the hotel we are staying in has A/C, but decided that it is cool enough outside that we don't really need it...and they turned it off. So our rooms are about 85 degrees at night. It's not bad, but it makes for restless nights. Getting our bodies onto North Asia time will require us maximizing our designated rest times, so this could present an issue. Ask Dad to make it cool in our rooms! We'll make it without A/C, but it would be nice.
3) In the morning (Tuesday night your time), we will be heading out to meet people and learn their culture. If you would be so kind as to help prepare the way for us by asking Dad to be there ahead of us, that would be great. We'll be engaging some folks in recreational activities at the park. I'm going to learn TaeChi and hopefully share my views on inner peace and balance. We also have a badminton set to play with, and will be inviting folks to play with us. Then, tomorrow night we will be playing board games and Twister with some new friends. I am excited about playing with our Chinese friends. We are hoping that some will go with us to dinner and site seeing in the next few days. Ask our Father to grant us favor, boldness, and wisdom in family expansion.

As always, I am so grateful for you and for your support as I travel and seek the ancient work that Father started so long ago. He has been busy here for a long time, and with your help, I am sure we will find those places He is preparing us for.

Peace
Shiou Ju (my friends here last year nick named me Shiou Ju, which means "small pig.")
aka Jason

Asia

2008-09-01T23:31:00.002-05:00

We landed Monday, and headed to the city we are staying in last night (we are 13 hours ahead of those of you in Texas!). Today we spent time at a local park talking to Dad about the people and how to bring the family business to this city. We are expecting for answers to these requests, and would ask that you join me in talking to Dad about this opportunity. I'll post pictures and some directions for video viewing when I get a chance. Love all of you!

Jase

The Brick

2008-08-26T22:01:00.003-05:00

So, it turns out that at some point you go from breaking wood at Tae Kwon Do belt tests to breaking concrete bricks like this one I had to break for my last test.

Team USA (Lopez)

2008-08-21T09:31:00.003-05:00

As I predicted, Wu Jingyu brought gold to China for the Featherweight Division. Our very own Mark and Diana Lopez brought home a silver and bronze for the light weight divisions. Did you see any of Mark's matches? That man may have the fastest legs in Taekowndo. Congratulations to Team USA on 2 medals so far. We have one fighter left to try for gold.

Olympic TKD

2008-08-20T02:27:00.005-05:00

In case you didn't know, the Olympic Tae Kwon Do is broadcast live over the internet. You can go to nbcolympics.com and select the sport you want to watch. Unfortunately, to watch it live you must do what I am doing right now, and be awake at 2:30 a.m.! It's been good stuff. The 49kg Chinese fighter Wu Jingyu is a strong contender for Gold. I've seen more axe kicks to the head from her than all the other matches combined!

I am watching Charlotte Craig's 3-2 loss to Venezuela. It was close, and a couple of shots should have gone her way. Tough match. We still have the Lopez family to look to. Maybe they can bring home some hardware!

Some AWESOME Links

2008-08-18T01:14:00.001-05:00

Check this out: Sweet Lyrics

You can also check out a new project by Mercy Me called "Cover Tune Grab Bag."

Turn Your Phone Off

2008-07-29T15:32:00.005-05:00

Have you ever had one of those days where your phone just rings CONSTANTLY? Today has been one of those days. After getting to sleep around 2:30 this morning, my phone began ringing at 7:45 this morning. Then a text at 7:55. Then a call at 8:15. By 9:00 I'd had 6 or 7 calls and 5 texts. And it has been that way all day. Which isn't a bad thing in and of itself. But for some reason I feel like I need to take calls, check texts, etc. On top of that, my phone has been on the blink, so if it does work I need to jump on it. By 2:00 this afternoon, I'd run my battery completely down and had to turn my phone off. I know, I know...How ever will I live with my phone off? Well, it turns out that just minutes after I turned my phone off a lady engaged me in a spiritual conversation which ended up with her coming to Christ. She had been raised around a church where people respond to humans instead of Jesus for forgiveness and restoration. When I explained to her that true regeneration only comes from Christ and that it only comes when He becomes our Savior, she was ready to engage him. Through the course of our conversation we started talking about obedience and baptism, when she says to me, "You could baptize me RIGHT NOW. I'm ready!" It seems that she decided Jesus was going to be her master, so we went out behind the building to the hot tub that is there, and in the presence of some of our close friends, I baptized her. I say all of that to say this: what would her life be like if I had plugged my phone in, and been engaging the 100's (not really) of people who want to talk to me instead of turning it off and engaging the one in front of me? Just a thought to ponder. Turn your phone off and look around. The world won't end, and for someone near you, their world might just begin.
Peace

My Friend, Cecil

2008-07-04T08:31:00.002-05:00

Cecil Sarratt left this world last night at 11:40. Well, he may have left much sooner, but his body stopped working last night. I imagine Cecil screeching into heaven on his Jake and Elwood Blue 1200CC Sportster.

Cecil was a real friend. He was one of the first members of The Heights Fellowship that I met. He and "Charlie-boy" helped me get my Honda out of the mud I'd gotten stuck in on Father's Day, 2004. Earlier this year, the battery had gone dead on Harley, and Cecil left work to help me push start the bike at the United parking lot. He thought it was funny that the battery was dead because I forgot to turn the bike completely off when I got there.

Cecil was a good man. He'd only been a follower of Jesus for a few years. Saved out of the rough life of a 1% biker (1% is the amount of bikers who are"outlaw" bikers like you see in the movies), Cecil loved Jesus. Every Sunday morning, I looked forward to standing outside talking with Cecil and "Charlie-boy" about our bikes, about life, and about Christ. Three weeks ago, Cecil and I took what would be the last ride we would take together in this world. He was the Road Captain that morning for our Nooma Riders ride. We ended up at Spanky's where we laughed and had a great time. Of course, Cecil was at the center of the conversation with a sense of humor that was on such a roll all we could do was sit and laugh.

Cecil, you will be missed. We'll take care of those you left behind, and I'm looking forward to riding with you again one day. Peace, My Brother.

Actual vs. Potential

2008-06-30T10:55:00.004-05:00

Two words that you never really think much about: actual and potential. Simply defined:

"Actual" - "presently existing in fact and not merely potential or possible."

"Potential" - "the inherent capacity for coming into being."

Taken at face value, we say, "Yeah, I knew that." But the implications of these two words can be profoundly life altering. Think about them when applied to people. Actual is what you are at the moment. It's the realized reality of all you've done. There's no changing what has actually come to pass. There's no changing what has become actual. It's done.

Potential, however, is all that could be from here forward. It can be a great word when we say, "That guy HAS great potential!" But when accompanied with one's actual, potential can be a horrible word: "That guy HAD great potential." See, our actual impacts our potential. I would even submit that as life goes on, your potential diminishes while your actual increases. At birth, we are 100% potential and 0% actual. At mid-life, we are 50% potential and 50% actual. Near death, we are just about 0% potential and 100% actual. John the Baptist understood this, stating that it was time for him to fade out and let Jesus take the scene. Jesus Himself realized this as we read John 13. His time was coming to a close, and it was time to show them the full extent of His love. I think it's this truth (although usually unknowingly) that drives people into "mid-life crisis." The thought sinks in, "I have accomplished so little and have such a short time left...it's time to do all those things I feel like I've wanted to do. Or at least to live life more fully with what I've got left." The counseling theory here is that a mid-life crisis is an unresolved fear of death and failure...but that's for another blog.

I bring all of this up to share a way to multiply your potential as it actually diminishes! I'm not a fan of math. I'm not current on math principles or trig, or anything else that could be hip about math. But I do understand multiplication, and am convinced that when you take whatever potential you have left and invest in those with potential, you increase their potential exponentially. If I am at mid-life (and at age 38, that's a reality if I live to be 76), and have 50% of my potential left, I can invest my energy and my future in my son, who at age 8 is still 90% potential. If I wisely invest what's left of my life in others, I can raise their potential, and in doing do I increase my potential, too! My youth pastor, Bart McMillan, once told me that the greatest investment you'll ever make is investing in people. Little did I know at the time that he was handing me the key to real success. No matter how long I live, if I will invest my energy in those around me, everyone's future gets brighter. Rather than being depressed or alarmed at how little life you have left, invest it in people and be amazed at what God will do with it. And be amazed at what God will do with you.

The Loss of a Friend

2008-06-27T08:53:00.002-05:00

The Laseman family attended THF with us. Justin, mentioned below, and his brother, Jacob, have been on youth trips with us. I am saddened by the loss and ask you to join me in praying for Sheri and Jacob.

From The Lubbock Online web site (our local news site):
The motorcycle deaths of father and son Danny and Justin Laceman on Thursday add to an increasing number of motorcycle fatalities over the past three years, something that concerns hospital workers as the summer months arrive.

Typically there are more motorcycles on the road during the summer, and “people have got to watch for motorcycles,” said Lubbock Police Capt. James Shavers.

"There is no way to predict a motorcycle accident," he said. “You have to assume they don’t see you.”

Laceman was driving the motorcycle around 9:15 a.m. Thursday, headed east on 82nd Street as he approached Milwaukee Avenue. At the same time, Laurie Cromeenes, 33, was traveling west, police said.

That’s when Cromeenes, who was driving a 2005 Chevy Tahoe with a 5-year-old and 2-year-old in the rear, tried to turned left onto Milwaukee and the vehicles collided.

Pieces of glass and parts of the Harley Davidson littered the ground in the busy intersection.

Shavers said police are still investigating the accident and have not filed any charges.

The two children inside the Tahoe were taken to Covenant Medical Center by ambulance with minor injuries.

Danny, 43, and Justin Laceman, 14, were taken to UMC by ambulance. Police said Justin was wearing a helmet, his father was not.

Boston Stryper...Styper Boston...Bostyper? Strypton?

2008-06-24T17:00:00.002-05:00

I just got a text from McMinn that the legendary rock band, Boston, is playing in the D/FW area tonight...And sure enough they are. But the shocker is who their frontman is these days. Have you ever heard of Stryper? How about Michael Sweet, Stryper's founder and former front man? That's right, kids! I got this from Boston's web site:

The legendary band BOSTON will headline the outdoor festival at Marina Park on Friday, June 6 in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The show kicks off a summer of stadium, concert and festival dates that will span the United States and Canada. Seasoned Stryper frontman Michael Sweet and new fan phenom Tommy DeCarlo join BOSTON veterans Jeff Neal, Kimberley Dahme, Gary Pihl and of course, Tom Scholz on stage this summer. Gary, the longest reigning member of BOSTON next to Tom, joined the band in 1985 to help complete “Third Stage,” and through his efforts, the band reemerged in 1987 for the Third Stage Tour, which set stadium records across the US.

WOW!

The Anit-marketers

2008-06-16T11:38:00.002-05:00

I was speaking with a local business owner last night that I met at a community event a few weeks back. We actually met at this local free concert series in the park down the street. He was there handing out advertisements for his shop while we were handing out water to the thirsty folks. After the concert last night, some of The Journey went out to eat, as we do every week after The Gathering. As we were finishing up, the business owner was there, too, and stopped by our table on his way out to ask what our "angle" is. Now, those weren't his words, but my summary of a 2 minute conversation. He wanted to truly know how we were planning to get those people into our church. He seemed stunned when I said, "We're not planning to get those people into our church." He just kinda stared at me. After the dazed look melted away, he wanted to know why were handing out water. This seems to be a hard concept to grasp in our western, money/resource based mind set. "Why would you spend money on people and not ask for something in return?" seems to be the real question. I assured him that we love the people at the park, and hope that they will come to Christ, but that our real goal was to be kind and show love unconditionally.

[ASIDE: Last night we even added a twist to the routine. We brought a box of Milkbone Dog Biscuits since so many people bring their dogs to the park for the concert. My daughter LOVES dogs, and she would take treats to the dogs while we brought water to the people. (By the way, a box of smaller Milkbone Biscuits is about $4.00, so there's really no overhead there. But we've discovered that dog lovers love people who love their dogs. They receive love by having their pets loved, too, so this is just another way to love people.)]

While most business owner's goals are to get them into their shop, our goal is to be Jesus in their lives. That seemed to just stun the local business owner. He even said something to the effect of, "Most churches would at least hand out a flier about themselves and capitalize on the marketing." Exactly. And that's fine for them. But it's not what God asked us to do. God asked us to go love thirsty people by giving them a drink of water.

[Sidebar] In three weeks, we are planning a cookout for the ENTIRE community. We're expecting to feed around 500 people. And the following week we are going to do a kid's club in the park every day from 9 a.m. to Noon with crafts, recreation, Bible story, and snow cones. Because we love Jesus and love our community, we are free to expect nothing in return. Rather, we get to lavish our love, resources, and life on Jesus by pouring ourselves onto people.

The business owner just kinda stood their again, thought for a second, and said, "So, you're like the anti-marketers?" Well, no. We are pro kindness. I told him again that our goal is to let people know they are loved and we are here to serve with no strings attached. He just kinda nodded, and walked away as he said, "Cool. I'll see you guys next week." I hope he understood, but don't think he did. But he will. And now we have another person to love and another person to serve. We just have to discover how to serve him and show him love. It's an exciting thing to be odd. It's like that line from the end of "The Incredibles."

TONY : You look different.
VIOLET : I feel different. Is different okay?
TONY : Hey, different is...[clears throat] Different is great.

Yeah, he's right. Different is GREAT. And I'm loving it.

Roy on Discipleship

2008-06-13T12:57:00.002-05:00

My friend and great thinker, Roy, has some great thoughts on Discipleship. You can read more at his blog. Here's something from his site.

"How did Jesus go about transforming a raw, interesting, diverse group of men from non-awareness to developed disciples? Reading the gospels, I came across several, repeated actions.

Teaching. Jesus had an agenda of significant themes that had to be discussed. Sometimes, he initiated. Other times, he took His cue from the disciples' conversations or behaviors.
Talking. The goal of talking is to relate, to express, to get to know someone. To be transformed, we need both formal and informal talk. Requirements without relationship won't produce lasting disciples.
Time. Jesus walked over 5000 miles with the disciples. He ate around 3800 meals with them. Do you think their relationships deepened after all that eating, walking, and talking? Some parts of discipleship are better caught than taught.
Trouble. Jesus used negative situations and turned them into teachable moments. He warned His guys about pending dangers. He prepared them for difficulty. Jesus didn't train His friends to expect a sterilized, sanitized world of fluff and puff.
Thinking. Jesus asked the best questions. He knew how to get to the "what" and "why" of an issue. His provocative questions helped prepare the disciples for their purpose. Jesus knew behaviors and thoughts are linked together.
Time-Out. Jesus laughed. He went to parties. He attended weddings. He enjoyed being with his friends. There should be room in discipleship for just fun. Is it possible more transformation could happen over ice cream at Friendly's than at Bible study one week?
Tasks. Jesus gave both simple and detailed assignments. He debriefed the disciples when they returned. What did they see? What did they learn?

Are there any items you think should be added to the list?"

We were spotted.

2008-06-11T10:56:00.001-05:00

Our local newspaper has a community photo site called "You Were Spotted." They "caught" us handing out free water at a local community event.

http://spotted.lubbockonline.com/photos/index.php?id=2583603

A Week Without Distractions

2008-06-08T00:37:00.003-05:00

We just got back from Youth Camp, and God definately had His way with our group. He saved 7 and led another 5 to be baptized in obedience to His desire for their lives. Out of the 22 kids we took, 12 made public decisions, and the others made life-changing/habit changing decisions. It was a GREAT week. To quote a close friend, "I love my life."

Remember when?

2008-05-30T01:10:00.006-05:00

Every Memorial Day I think of Reveelation 2:5, where Jesus reminds the church at Ephesus to remember their early zeal for Him. Is that weird? Is it weird that every time I hear someone talk about remembering something meaningful, this verse comes to mind. That's what led to me thinking about this verse last night. I was thinking about a lot of things, remembering, when it popped into my mind. That brought me to the point of thinking about the early days of my faith. WOW! It's been a while. Not too long ago I passed the "swing point" where I've actually been a Jesus follower longer than I wasn't. I've been following Jesus for 21 years. Some of you have known me that whole time, AND you're older than me...just thought I'd remind you of that! I did some CRAZY things as a young believer. Some of them were stupid, and some were inspired (probably more the former than the latter). I would do things like take witnessing tracts and hide them in people's lockers at school, or unroll a roll of toilet paper in the bathroom and put an Answer Tract (remember those?) every 5 or 6 squares as I rerolled the paper. Lance and I would toilet paper people's houses on their birthdays and leave little toy ninjas on their porch. I had a friend named John Newton that nearly got us killed A LOT in South Dallas. My friends, Kyle and Laura, would make sure I got to church every Wednesday night, even though it meant they had to drive 15 miles out of their way and it meant that I had to be the only male Acteen (a teen-girl's mission group) in our church. I remember the youth newsletter that I was the editor for, "The C.H.U.B.S." which stood for "The Colonial Hills Underground Baptist Standard." So many good things came to mind last night as I thought about the early days of my faith. And so many good people who invested in me. Every person that I have gotten to reach for Christ is to their credit, not mine. So many people poured into me to make me who I am today.

Then, of course, the comparison happened. I like to think that I do a lot more now and that I do a lot better now, but it's hard to compare like that. I do know this, whatever I did back then, it was out of a crazy zeal for Christ and the new life I'd been given. How much do I do today because it's expected? How much of my faith is a check list of things that "Good Christians" do? The early church at Ephesus did A LOT of great things, but they lost their focus on why they were doing it. Memorial Day always reminds me to remember my first love, and to allow Him to set my schedule, dictate my day, and have His way with me. I just need to love Him and do silly/crazy things because I am so in love with Him. I hope Memorial Day was a day of remembering for you, too.

Twitter

2008-05-20T09:40:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I'm twittering now. I'm not exactly sure what it is or why I am...well, I guess I am because a lot of folks that I follow by blog are twittering. You can connect to me thru http://www.twitter.com/thejiggybishop. I think!

Fatal Hit And Run Takes the Life of Lubbock Man

2008-05-10T10:50:00.004-05:00

I just don't understand people. Accidents happen, sure. But why hit and run? This was the senseless death of someone dear to many people in Lubbock. Here's the article from www.kcbd.com.

At 8 p.m. Thursday night, Lubbock police arrive at the scene of a hit and run motorcycle accident at the corner of 50th Street and Avenue D.

Just 20 minutes earlier, at 7:40, Monte Wampler was riding his beloved 2000 Harley Davidson East on 50^th Street. In a split second, as Wampler passed Avenue D, he was hit by a 1987 Mercury Grand Marquis.

Allegedly behind the wheel was 21-year-old Rochelle Ranson. But police say Ranson didn't stop when she allegedly hit Wampler. The police report says Ranson backed up, running over Wampler, and then took off North on Avenue D.

Police say Ranson then hit another person, a pedestrian, running over the person's legs. At that point two people jumped out of the car and took off on foot and Ranson allegedly then took off west on 46th Street where she got into another accident - another hit and run.

Not 20 minutes later around the same time Wampler was pronounced dead at UMC, Ranson was pulled over and arrested at the Super 8 Motel on I-27 and 66th Street, barely a mile from where the initial hit and run occurred that killed Wampler.

"It appears intoxication may be a factor but we'll have more on that when the test results come back," said Lt. Jon Caspell with the Lubbock Police.

Until those results come back official charges won't be filed against Ranson. She's currently being held on an unrelated warrant at the Lubbock County Jail.

The family of Monte Wampler is getting ready for a funeral service Saturday and they say the public is welcome. If you'd like to pay your respects to Wampler, his family invites you to the First Baptist Church in Ralls at 2 p.m. Saturday for a service in remembrance of Monte.

Operation Study Break

2008-05-05T11:09:00.003-05:00

We had an INCREDIBLE night last night. I am going to save the best part for last. But to catch you up on what we did; here's a summary. It's finals week at Texas Tech, and where we meet for The Gathering is a Tech student study hot spot. The back room where we gather is an overflow room during the week so J&B can accommodate more customers. So, the plan was to use our space to serve rather than run the students out for our 2 hour time slot. We decided to give out vouchers for free coffee and put out free pastries. We brought in our friend, Katie, who is a massage therapist, to do free 5 minute chair massages for those who needed it (and who doesn't need a free massage?). My friend, Matt, brought his guitar to provide soft acoustic atmosphere music, and we set up a prayer room upstairs for those who might want/need prayer.

Over the course of the evening, we had several conversations with folks just about life and why we would be giving away coffee, pastries, and massages. The massage chair was a big hit. Thanks Katie! Over the course of 2 hours, she did around 20 massages. The cool thing about that was that the staff at the coffee shop were able to take advantage of this gift, and it provided a further connection to them. One of the girls who was working the counter used to work at Aroma's, so she knows us a little. As she was tallying up everything and all the food products we'd served, she kept apologizing for so many people taking advantage of the free food. I kept telling her that we wished more people had been here to enjoy it, and that our goal was to give twice as much away next time. "Next time?!?!" she asked in a shocked/amazed way. "You mean you'll do this again? This has been GREAT!" We gave away $101.00 worth of coffee and bundt cake last night.

The people of The Journey were amazing, too. They bussed tables, played with dogs, handed out coffee vouchers, and engaged the people in our new oikos. I left last night feeling like we had done in one night what it took me several months to do at Aroma's. Yea for multiplied effort!

My friend, Matt, came and provided live "atmosphere" music, which was very well done. The music side generated a new friend who calls himself T-Rex. He's a late 50's/early 60's manic musician! He plans on joining us in the back room for The Gathering this Sunday.

The highlight of the evening, though, happened at the very beginning of the night. I had just put up the signs indicating that there would be a prayer room upstairs, and was getting ready to head up there to make sure the chairs were set up. Standing at the bottom of the stairs was "Mike," just gazing up the stairs as if summoning the courage to ascend. I would later find out that Mike is 55, has 3 daughters, and I think he's divorced, living alone here in Tech Terrace. I came along side him and just stood there, off to his right. He sensed I had walked up, and turned to me, asking, "Are you one of the people praying for folks?" I told him I was and introduced myself. He gripped my hand with the desperate/tight grip of a man barely hanging on. He looked me in the eye and began to weep. As the tears rolled down his cheek, he told me that he was going to end his life, and had gone for a walk to think that over. He told me he felt like he needed a coke, and came in to buy one...but he doesn't drink coke and wasn't sure why had even come in to get one. As he was standing at the counter, he saw the signs letting people know if they needed prayer to come on back. He said that at that moment he knew that God had brought him here to be prayed over and restored. So we walked up stairs, and he shared some of his story with me, being sure to say several times that he knew God had brought him to J&B to save his life tonight. Turns out, Mike is a follower of Jesus who has fallen on very hard times. He lives near J&B, and was out walking as he contemplated his suicide. He told me he had made a mess of his life, and just couldn't go on. So, we prayed. But before we started I just reached out my hand, and he grabbed it with both of his and squeezed the circulation out of it. I prayed Scripture over him, and asked God to give him wisdom. We thanked God together that Mike could offer a broken heart and contrite spirit. I prayed that Mike would find the end of his own strength and effort and plug into God's unlimited resources. We prayed and prayed and prayed, praying for about 15 minutes. All the while Mike wept bitterly and uncontrollably. After we finished praying, Mike continued to hold onto my hand as he looked up, visibly relieved, and thanked me. He knew it was a miraculous intervention of God into his life that we were there last night. As we talked about life, and what would be next for him, he began asking about The Journey. I told him I was the Pastor. He looked down at the floor and said he had skipped church that day because things had gotten so bad. I just smiled and told him that we exist to bring God to him. We chatted a bit longer, and he tried to offer money for The Journey. I told him we couldn't take money from him, but that we would continue to pray for him. We talked for a bit more and I asked him if there was anything else we could do to help. I didn't want to be the guy who just prays for him, and sends him on his way. He said prayer was exactly what he needed. He plans to come back and hang out with us. He even went as far as to say he thinks there are many people in this neighborhood who need to have God brought to them, and he felt like we would do that very thing. As he stood to leave, he grabbed my hand again, and thanked me for saving his life. I didn't know what to say, so I just told him that I was honored to be a part of his life, and that I would be honored to continue to walk with him. "You aren't designed to do life alone," I told him as we headed down the stairs. I gave him my cell number and told him that if there were ever anything he needed, to call. And, just like that, he headed out the door. We could have packed up at that pointed and headed out. I felt like that's why God had us here last night. Mike helped me see what God sees here at J&B. It's a normal thing for me to be broken for the lost condition of my community, but seldom do I dig in and really contemplate how bad some of their lives may be. Sitting here this morning, I'm wondering who else is at the end of their rope, thinking about giving up or giving in. Hopefully, The Journey will always be there to step in and be Jesus to those who need Him.

And I say all of that to say that our network of prayer warriors from all over the country played a vital role in what we did as they prayed for us last night. I really believe that as they prayed, God moved and brought Mike looking for a drink that he didn't have at home. I believe that as they took time out of their day to pray for us, Mike turned the corner to the left instead of the right and ended up here rather than the park. Ultimately, I believe that one hopeless 55 year old man now has hope because of prayer. Thank you to all of you who prayed for us last night, and for giving of yourself and your time to make a difference in Lubbock and the kingdom. YOU ROCK!

Confession, Forgiveness, and Freedom

2008-05-02T11:07:00.004-05:00

it's been a week of lots of conversations with lots of hurting people. I am actually sitting here stewing over a pile of written confessions done by a group of teenagers this week. It has put me somewhat into a funk. But I know that God is in the process of freeing them from these things, so there is a bright side. Why do we carry hurt? Why don't we share it with others? My sense of it would be pride/ego. Maybe possible humiliation. But the truth is I can't quite figure it out. We all go thru very similar things. We all stumble and fall in similar ways. Why can't we figure out what James is talking about in chapter 5 of his letter when he says, "And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; and the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (5:15-16) James deals with our own shortcomings as a sickness that needs healing; telling us that we will find the healing in confession and prayer. And yet, we continue to struggle and stumble, seemingly alone.

As I went thru the stack of confessions, I came to a simple drawing. It was a heart/sun! It was a heart with a smiley face and "sun rays" coming out of it. Then I remembered that my daughter, Cayla, had sat in on part of what we were doing, and that was her offering. It brought a smile to my face as I was deeply touched by her simple confession that Jesus, The Son, is love and warmth. She told me that was what she wanted to tell God, and I had completely forgotten about it until I found it in the stack. Now, I don't want to make light of sin, or say it's no big deal, but I think sometimes I beat myself up with guilt about my sin and forget that if The Son has set you free, you are free indeed. And confession brings freedom. And Christ is life, love, and freedom. In the midst of all of the yuck in this stack of human depravity is a reminder that, in spite of it all, God deeply loves us and seeks to forgive and restore. So why don't I confess more to Him? The Psalmist reminds me, "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning." (30:5)

Confession is good for the soul is not just a glib cliché, but a soul-healing truth. Make confession a regular part of your day/life/moment. The Journey is best made with each other walking in the freedom of Christ's restorative forgiveness. Don't walk alone, Don't walk in guilt. Walk in the light, as He is in the light. He is the light.

Peace

All Talk and No Posts

2008-05-02T09:03:00.002-05:00

Tons of conversations this week have kept me from being able to post or read much. I'm hoping to remedy that tonight...

As if reading my blog

2008-04-25T22:31:00.003-05:00

It was an amazing thing yesterday. I posted that I didn't have a remote here in my room, and within minutes the maintenance guy was knocking at my door with a remote for me. It was very uncanny. It was as if they were reading my blog and realized that I needed a remote!

No Remote

2008-04-24T15:10:00.003-05:00

I'm in a Hotel in North Arlington, and I just kicked back on my couch to catch up on local sports and news (D/FW is home for me), when I realized there is NO REMOTE for the TV! Now, when the commercial's volume is turned up, I have to get up and walk over there...not to mention changing channels! How ever can I relax having to stand up every 30 seconds? And surfing...don't get me started on trying to find a good channel...UGH!

Make it so.

2008-04-16T14:48:00.000-05:00

This week has been HECTIC! I actually had to turn my phone off yesterday at 5 p.m. because I hadn't had a break from people in a while. SOOOO, if you called or texted me yesterday, sorry! Sometimes I just need a break. Ever feel that way? So today, after our LIFE Group (which met at 10 for our study on the early church), I am going to practice Sabbath. I heard one pastor call the day of rest "cocooning." It's not a day to cease from work, but rather a day to focus. By God's own example, He doesn't cease from work on the Sabbath day. If God quit working, we would cease to exist! The Sabbath is a day to make sure your heart beats with God's heart. Jesus reminded the Pharisees that the Sabbath was made for man, and not the other way around. God knows that we have a tendency to allow the things around us to choke out the things He is doing in us. Sabbath is a day of "weeding," so to speak. So, after I'm done with this update, I'm going to jump back into the Scriptures, share the day with my family, and get some much needed recliner time. How's it going for you? Do you have a refuel and recharge day? If you don't, you're headed down a rough road. I'll be praying for you today. I'm praying that you will find that time of Sabbath. "I'm too busy to..." is only a symptom that you are heading for failure. If you are too busy to refocus and recharge with Christ, then you are too busy. As Jean-Luc Picard says often to Ryker, "Make it so."

The Last Guy I Sparred

2008-04-11T12:46:00.002-05:00

The Old Man can still bring it. Here's a couple pictures of the last guy I sparred.

Who doesn't like crayons and playdough?

2008-04-07T11:37:00.002-05:00

It's a simple truth...we all love to doodle, color, and play with playdough! It's an amazing addition to the worship gathering to cover the tables where participants sit with white butcher paper. Leave some crayons there and put out a couple cans of playdough. During the entire gathering, some people will express through their hands what they feel they can't with their mouth! For more creative ideas, check out LOS's blog.

Microsoft Abandons Power Point

2008-04-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

I was reading Bill Kinnon's blog and found the following article. Alarming to say the least.

Redmond, Washington April 1, 2008 (Wrediculus News Service)

Bill Gates announced today, that in spite of its popularity, Microsoft (MSFT) would be abandoning PowerPoint. Originally developed by a former Berkeley PhD student, Bob Gaskins and software developer, Dennis Austin at Forethought Software - PowerPoint was launched for the Mac in 1987. Forethought was purchased by Microsoft later that year and PowerPoint was released for Windows in 1990.

Gates made the announcement at a symposium put on in Seattle by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Eyeballs. Commenting at P.E.T.E yesterday, Gates stated,

"Listen this has nothing to do with Apple's purportedly superior presentation program, Keynote. I just feel that after almost twenty years, PowerPoint has served it's purpose. If you remember, I didn't even use it for my presentation at CES in January. But, quite frankly, that isn't the real reason we've canned the product.

As you may remember, Time Magazine voted Bono, my wife and me, Persons of the Year a few years back. It's because of our efforts to make the world a better place.

Dispensing with PowerPoint is a part of that initiative. We realize that no matter how wonderful the software is, it's being used in ways that are hurting people."

Gates said that one of the main complaints he'd heard about the presentation software was its use in churches. He stated that there are over 300,000 churches in America and it would seem a vast percentage were using PowerPoint. And using it badly.

"From cluttered screens to using every font in their system, churches are making a mockery of the power of this program. Things fly in, things zip out. It's making congregants sick. And Microsoft has had enough litigation issues without having to worry about a class-action lawsuit from the millions of pew sitters in America."

This reporter asked Mr. Gates why he hadn't recommended the writings of Garr Reynolds to the church PowerPoint audience. Gates said,

"Listen, I've really appreciated Garr's comments about my own PowerPoint presentations. I've taken them to heart. And I am making my way through Garr's new book. Unfortunately, Ballmer has been less willing to change.

But the problem is that Mr. Reynolds calls his website PresentationZen.com and churches really aren't into the whole Zen thing."

Gates stated that Microsoft (MSFT) would continue to support PowerPoint for Windows XP and earlier but that all development for Vista was being curtailed. He also said that all PowerPoint packages in the retail channel would have labels added to them stating "Not Recommended for Church Use."

Gates also told the gathered reporters that he was attempting to talk to Steve Jobs about Keynote as he feared churches would just move to the Apple platform. "As yet, I've not heard back from Steve."

Originally published on Feb 14th, 2006. I thought it would be appropriate for today.

Disputable Matters

2008-03-31T11:12:00.002-05:00

A re-read of Romans 14 brought this phrase out in my mind: "disputable matters." Paul starts the chapter saying, Accept him whose faith if weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters." I've read through this passage many times, understanding that it's point is the relationship between the mature and immature. As mature believers, we should guard our actions so that we do not put a stumbling block in the path of the immature believer. This is in keeping with Paul's statement that "everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial." We are free to do what we want, but must always strive to measure the impact of our actions on others. You all know this (but if you are like me, you wrestle with it greatly). But I've never really thought about the things he goes on to list as "disputable matters."

One dictionary defines "disputable" this way: "open to argument or debate," and "matters" in this manner: "a vaguely specified concern." So, "disputable matters" leads me to believe Paul is now going to talk about "vaguely specific concerns that are open to argument or debate."

Paul (as Jewish as one man could be!) addresses two items as disputable matters: dietary laws and the Sabbath! Devout Jews observe these two matters more than any others. Yet Paul minimalizes them as disputable matters. This passage drove me to the place of asking, "What are some other disputable matters?" What do you think?

Spring Break has sprung.

2008-03-25T09:44:00.003-05:00

It's almost bitter-sweet when you realize at 4:20 on the last day of your ski/snowboarding trip that it's the last run until next year. What I can't figure out is why I don't spend more time doing what I love so much. We only live 4 hours from the slopes. And Jeremiah LOVES to ski almost as much as I love to snowboard. As a matter of fact, his old man's legs slowed them down and kept him from making one more run. Just a few pictures from the trip to Telluride, CO.

Changing Landscape

2008-03-11T11:28:00.001-05:00

Loose teeth. Our home is filled with discussion about loose teeth. Both Jeremiah and Cayla have loose teeth, and teeth that are coming out. Jeremiah pulled one of his loose teeth yesterday. The "landscape" of their appearance is changing every day as they grow into adults. I remind them all the time that they are growing up too fast. But growth is inevitable. With every sun rise we are a day older. And for my kids that means a day closer to adulthood. What do we do with them? How do we invest in them? During a time of reflection last night I contemplated how little time we truly have with our children before they are out "on their own," so to speak. It's put me into an existential frame of mind, dwelling on how much time we really have at all, not just with our kids. Am I spending it on what's important? Will I leave a legacy? Will people be better because of my life? Has the kingdom grown thru my work? I think it is a healthy thing to ask these questions from time to time. Refocusing or "centering" is a vital part to maintaining a forward focus. I know it seems counter-intuitive to think that a great way to look forward is to look back. But, as George Santayana, a notable philosopher, once said, "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it." And surely the nation of Israel is a testament to that truth. Let today be a day of reflection for you; a time of centering.

The Impending Doom of Homeschool

2008-03-11T08:16:00.002-05:00

What does this mean for us as Americans? A California Appeals court ruled last week that parents without teaching credentials will no longer be allowed to home school their children. As many of you know, often times what happens in California politics then spreads out from there. Will we see this in Texas? I read about this through Bob Hyatt's Blog, where he links to Denny Burk's Blog.

On the move

2008-03-07T09:50:00.002-06:00

The Journey is on the move. This Sunday we begin the next chapter in our story. We're moving to J&B Coffee for our gatherings. I'm excited for several reasons. The greatest reason, though, is that we will be in a neighborhood coffee shop surrounded by Texas Tech student housing! We have an opportunity to become the neighborhood church. And that is the challenge, too. We have to figure out how to engage the neighborhood out where they are, and not just hope they will come to us. I think I am going to begin a dialogue around theology. Hmm, "Caffinated Theology." Anyway, I'm excited!

Pasta Pastor

2008-02-26T09:53:00.002-06:00

We are having a contest with my teenagers that should prove interesting. Tomorrow they will turn in pasta likenesses of me in an effort to win Newsboys Tickets. I know that there are at least 3 entries so far. I've actually seen one, and it is the bomb. I'll post pictures of the entries here. We have an independent judge coming in to decide which entry looks the most like me! After I post the pictures, you can get in on the voting, as well, so check back Thursday morning for the pics.

Big Trouble Can Come, too.

2008-02-12T09:44:00.001-06:00

The "birthday season" has arrived. Saturday before last, we had two to attend. Last Saturday was another. There are more looming on the horizon. But last Saturday was a 2 for 1 party. Two of Jeremiah's classmates were having parties at Chuck E. Cheese. I happen to like Chuck E. Cheese because they don't let the kids leave without a parent, and you can see the whole place from the right seat, so the kids can run wild while I read or write (or sleep for that matter). Our Chuck E. Cheese has a new Hampton Inn next door with a STRONG Wi-Fi signal so I can actually be online while we're there. So, we showed up at Noon for the party and made our way through the ocean of children to the back corner where the parties were taking place. As we made our way back there I saw one of Rick's parents (he's one of the little boys that Jeremiah led to Christ last Thursday). That's when the feeling of trepidation hit. My mind raced as I thought of all the possible responses a parent could have to what had happened with her son at school. And most of the responses I could imagine were mildly negative to highly volatile. Am I about to get a smack down Cheerleader mom style in Chuck E. Cheese? Damage control kicked in as she made eye contact with me and headed my way (insert ominous music here).

She came over and told me that something had happened on Wednesday or Thursday of last week. I told her I was sure it was Thursday. Well, her son had gotten into the car after school that day and proceeded to tell her that he "became a Christian today." She responded to him by saying, "Well, that's nice, Honey. We're all Christians," and continued on with her check list of things she needed to get done. Rick stopped her thoughts, though, when he said, "No, really. I'm not going to Hell now. I said a prayer and gave Jesus my life and I am a REAL Christian now." As she is telling me this, I am just waiting for the "Who do you think you are..." or the "How dare you..." But she stops and tells me how grateful they are for Jeremiah and that a wonderful thing has happened. It turns out that they are all excited about Rick. His grandfather is a pastor and he's excited, too. She finishes her conversation with me telling me how excited Rick is and how he is going to be bringing his Bible to school to read with Jeremiah, and that they are grateful for Jeremiah.

I made a couple of observations afterward that I think are paramount.
1. What if her response had been negative? What would I have done? I hope that I would have been gracious and still maintained the positive of the whole encounter; and that is that a little boy came to Jesus last week. I'm sure that my kids will cause some trouble as they further the kingdom. This encounter, although a hugely positive encounter, reminded me of the reality that trouble from spreading the Gospel is coming and I need to be ready.

2. Rick's mom responded to him by saying, "We're all Christians." I've made an assumption with this family that they are believers based on the fact that they attend church on a regular basis. They are VERY nice people. Rick's dad is very outgoing and just a joy to be around. All that to say, however, if they think that everyone is a Christian, then maybe they are not and I need to be speaking Gospel truth into their lives, as well. With Rick coming to Jesus, it's the perfect time to start that conversation.

3. A more general observation I made was that not everyone will respond to the Gospel in a negative way. That's a no brainer...but you'd be surprised at how many times you make the assumption that people only respond negatively to the Gospel. I am always prepared for people to balk at the thought of Jesus, but some people actually respond in a positive way and that I need to expect both reactions, and not just the negative.

So, what are you waiting for? Go cause some trouble and be blessed by the good that will come of it!

Big things and little packages...

2008-02-08T11:02:00.000-06:00

Last Wednesday night, Jeremiah (my 7 year old) and I were riding home in my truck when he asked me if I thought his teachers would let him take his Bible to recess.

"I'm not sure, bud. Why?" was my reply.

His response was thoughtful, "Well, I realized tonight that I am not spreading God's Word like I should be."

Now, you've got to understand that this kind of conversation is normal with Jeremiah. He thinks things thru. Sometimes that keeps him from focusing on the task at hand because he has not resolved an earlier issue in his mind. I have to say that I really look forward to these talks, and could tell that a real deep conversation was about to ensue.

"Could you write down the words I prayed when I became a Christian?" he continued.

My response was one of encouragement, "Well, I can. But can you tell me what you prayed about that night?" He and Cayla (then 5 but now 6) had come to me a few months ago to tell me they were ready to follow Christ and understood their need for Him. They just needed me to "help them with the words."

"Well," he said, "I told Jesus He could have my life and that I needed him to wash my sins away. And I thanked Him for dieing on the cross for me so I could live with Him forever."

"Can you remember that and make it into a prayer?" I continued.

"I think so." he said, as he thought for a moment. "Dad, could you just help me by writing down the words on a skinny piece of paper I can keep in my pocket so I can remember them better? I want to share Jesus with my friends and if you could write that down it would help me remember."

"Sure, buddy. I can do that."

We got home, ate a quick dinner, and headed for his room to do our devotional time and pray. We do that every night that I am home. During our time of prayer, I mentioned Jeremiah's friends to the Lord, and asked Him to give Jeremiah the right words and the right opportunity. At that point, Jeremiah hid his face. His posture indicated that he was crying...

So I asked, "What's wrong, Jeremiah?"

He just buried his face in his pillow, obviously embarrassed that he was crying.

"It's okay to cry for your friends, son. As a matter of fact, it's a very good thing that you are crying for your friends," I whispered as I scooped him up in my arms. He was in his boxer-briefs with Spiderman on them, tightly gripping his stuffed dog, Scruffy. "I wish more people would weep for their lost friends."

"I want them to know Jesus," he sobbed in response.

I took his little chin in my hand and gently turned his head until our eyes met. He quickly wiped the tears away as he did that little "stutter breath" that children do when they are crying. As he looked me square in the eye, I again whispered to him, "I am proud of you. We all should be moved for our friends like you are. God has laid your friends on your heart for a reason."

"I know," he quivered. "And I am going to share Jesus with them tomorrow."

He said his prayer, and on this night, he included his lost friends by name, asking Jesus to help them be saved. As he said, "Amen," I tucked him in, bent over and kissed him on the forehead, and whispered, "I'm proud of you. I love you. Thank you for inspiring me."

"I love you, too, Daddy. You're welcome."

Big things come in little packages.

The next morning, yesterday morning, he reminded me that he needed me to write out a prayer for him to use when he talks to his friends about Jesus. "I want to make sure I know how to help them pray," he added to his reminder. So, I wrote out the prayer that he and Cayla had prayed. I wrote it in bite-sized phrases so that Jeremiah could have them "repeat after him," as he put it. And off to school he went.

All day yesterday I anxiously awaited a phone call from the school telling me that Jeremiah was in trouble for what he'd gone to do that day. I could just imagine it, "Mr. Bishop. You can not send Jeremiah to school with a prayer in his pocket trying to save his friends. It's just not appropriate." It never came.

Caryn and I picked them up at 3 that afternoon, and took them to the Mall for a soda and a pretzel. As we sat and ate our pretzels, I asked Jeremiah how it had gone at school that day. He immediately perked up.

"It went GREAT! Brian and Rick repeated after me and became Christians today."

"Really?" I asked. "How did you get to that point?"

"Oh, that was easy. I just asked them if they wanted to become Christians and give their life to Jesus. They both said yes, so I led them in the prayer you wrote for me. Rick was really excited afterward! It was cool."

And now it was my turn to weep. He really gets it, even more so than I do. It really is easy. Really. I pictured the whole conversation in my mind: Three little boys sitting at lunch, Jeremiah leading them as they pray. And I was deeply moved as I realized that Jeremiah, at age 7, had just done more for the kingdom than some people will do in their lifetime. He had just led more people to Christ than 90% of "Christians" will in their time here on earth. And I was overwhelmed by it and grateful. God has blessed us with GREAT kids. We don't deserve them. If anything, I deserve what I heard my mom say OVER AND OVER again when I was a kid..."I hope your kids treat you like this."

Today, Jeremiah will be talking with some more friends about Jesus. And he is going to talk to Brian and Rick about getting together and reading the Bible at recess once a week or something to that end.

"What if they don't have Bibles, Dad? Can we get them one?"

"Yes, bud. We can get them Bibles if they need them."

He knows that he is supposed to be spreading God's Word. He gets the fact that means he is to share with the lost and teach the found. And he's doing both. Pray for my little barbarian as he and his hordes begin to overrun the school! Revival is coming. A great big revival is coming and it's packaged in tiny little boys and girls who are going to one day save the universe!
Peace

The Conversation

2008-02-06T16:20:00.000-06:00

I realized something the other day. I was filling out a short bio sheet about myself and it asked about my hobbies and interests. I listed Tae Kwon Do, Paintball, hockey, reading, music, and a few other things. Then I paused...I do all of those things, and look forward to them, but it didn't really capture the essence of what I am about. That's the point of the question, right? It's supposed to give people a feel for the "color" of your life. So I really got to thinking about what get's me most excited. What is it that I immediately call home to talk to Caryn about? I discovered my real hobby; it's conversations. I love to talk to people. Whether it's over coffee, lunch, or during tae kwon do, it's a lot more fun when you have someone to talk to while you eat or play. It's a lot more engaging to read if you will have someone to talk to about what you read. Sure, these are some of the activities I enjoy, but the one I enjoy the most (and have for years) just popped up and slapped me in the face! How could I miss it? I love to talk to people. If you ever need to talk, give me a call. I truly would love to talk to you!

Why Can't We See It?

2008-01-24T18:50:00.000-06:00

I put together a Prayer Labyrinth for our local faith community and it opened last night. I did it for our students, but it is such work that I thought that I would open it to the community at large for the next 3 days. Last night we had 48 teens and adults use the labyrinth. Tonight we will have another 20 or so adults use it. Almost to a person, everyone comes out and talks about how awesome an experience it is. They feel "closer to God," or "at peace," or "like I really worshipped." It happens all the time: a special event that people look forward to and they encounter God; touching them in a meaningful way.

But from here, they will go back to doing things the way they always have. You know what I mean? It's like the "after youth camp" experience. Tears, movement, devotion, promises of change, deeper appreciation for God. Then a couple weeks later...same old same old. Is the answer to have more camps or more labyrinths or more special events more often? I hope not because I won't survive that! But why can't we see the commonalities in these events that make them so special for us? Why can't we build those commonalities into our daily lives so that a deep worship experience is the norm? Should it be the norm? One of my teenagers hung back after finishing the labyrinth experience. He said it was AWESOME! I asked him, "What made it awesome?" He replied, "It was great to slow down and linger on a thought. It was nice to have quiet and time to think."
"Why can't you do that every day?" I chided back. And that's when it clicked for him.
"I guess I can."
"And should," I added. Don't wait for someone else to set the table. Pull up a chair to God's table. Deep meaningful worship of Him on a regular and ongoing basis should be an everyday part of your diet.

Ahhh, typing with two hands again...

2008-01-08T13:13:00.000-06:00

Howdy everyone! I've been away for a bit...Anniversary and Christmas travels plus day-after-Christmas shoulder surgery. Anyway, Caryn and I went to Las Vegas for our 12th anniversary. Then we went to Arlington for a whirl-wind Christmas present drop off; 700 miles in 24 hours.

10 days ago I had the Labrum (cartlidge that lines my shoulder socket) reattached to my should socket. I have these cool metal tacks in my shoulder that the cartilage will grow over at some point. In the mean time I have this AWESOME immobilizing sling called "The UltraSling II." It's sleek, black, and I have to turn sideways to walk thru doors. Rehab is NO FUN! 3 days a week for the next 4 weeks I get worked over for an hour. Doc says 3 months until I can lift anything light, and 6 months until I'm normal again. I'm putting my best Terrel Owens "quick healing" efforts into it, though, and am already a week ahead!

I've got some things on my mind I want to write about but my mind has been on Codine for 2 weeks, so once I get the purple dragons out of my mind I will update here!

Peace!

The Cost Of Being A Mystic Warrior

2007-12-03T11:10:00.000-06:00

While recently connecting with other mystics and searching for those who blaze the trail in pursuit of the mission, I had one of the most moving encounters of my life. I was visiting a communist county in Asia, and went to visit the local "government sponsored" faith community in a city of well over 1 million people. Now, this community is a bit different than most government sponsored "clubs," as true warriors have infiltrated the leadership, and they are using their governmental seal of approval to advance the cause. As we went to the building where this community met, we encountered a lady sitting outside the gate. She looked like most of the other local people, but as we passed, she whispered, "Shang di bao ni," or "Most High God bless you." Needless to say, it was a shock for me to be greeted like that by a local person. She approached us and began to talk to us. She offered to take us into the meeting place for the local faith community. Once inside, she served us cups of hot water (it was very cold outside where she'd been sitting) and she began to tell her story. My American hosts are very good at Chinese, but they had a hard time following her story. So, at first I thought she might be mentally unstable, or even demon possessed as she become seemingly more and more agitated. As she told her story, she began to weep. Being Maygoren (from America), I had no idea what was going on. I understood nothing of what she was saying. After she left, my hosts began talking about what was going on, and what the lady had shared. It seems that she is not mentally ill or demonic. She is grieving. As best they could tell, either her husband or her son had been a follower of Yeshua. At some point, the local government had come and taken her significant person away at gun point and she hadn't seen them since. Her agitation was a soul wrenching expression of her pain. We met her again on the steps of the building as we were leaving. She had a copy of The BOOK, both parts (which is hard to get in this country). With outstretched arms, she gave it to my friends. I'm still not exactly sure why. I read into it that she wanted them to be able to give it to someone else who needs Father's Story in their heart language; a tribute to the work of a loved one taken by the government.

I always seem to come home with more of a culture shock than I leave with. What would the Faith Community in the West look like with that kind of passion? I'm not saying that there aren't people here with that passion or that wouldn't make the same sacrifice. I do think they exist here and are almost as rare as this woman is to her country. And that's a shame since there are so many more of "us" here. This lady reminded me that there is a cost to save the world. There is a cost to serve our Master, and many pay that cost every day around our world. What does it cost me? I recently read that 480 Yeshua people are killed every day for their belief, and for sharing that belief with others. We may one day pay that price, too, but not today. Will you join this lady in sharing no matter what the cost? She has been a milestone for me on my journey. May our Father bless her and multiply people like her in that closed country. And I hope He reminds us everyday that we are not our own and that we have been bought for Him at a high price. We are for His service.

The Mystics

2007-11-15T11:21:00.000-06:00

In my travels in the east, we were led to a group of people in search of the mystics, also. 6 decided to join the search and join the mission. They let the world know of their decision by going swimming, as it is commonly called in their culture. Now they are searching for others who need to know. Bring them up in your conversations with Dad. The family is bigger and the mystics are growing in numbers daily.

(BTW - i know the person is faceless. that's because his involvement could cost him his family, freedom, and life. His boldness puts me to shame for fearing the rejection of men.)

The Mystic

2007-11-11T15:53:00.000-06:00

My search for the mystic will be taking me to Beijing this week. I'll post from there. I will be unable to be reached until after Thanksgiving.
Peace

Awards

2007-10-22T10:55:00.000-05:00

We just got in from Ft. Worth, where Jeremiah took 2nd place in his bracket at the largest Tae Kwon Do tournament in North America. He had an absolutely phenominal time, and has worn his silver medal everywhere! I'll post pictures when I get them off of the camera.

On another note, you may remember my post some time back about making a Freebird's commercial. Here's an excerpt from their monthly newsletter that I just received:

"Award Winnings Ads 2nd Year in a Row It's all about you! - Nation's Restaurant News likes Freebirds Fanatics almost as much as we do. Last year they gave us an award for the Kate and Rita ad. We won again! This year the ad was about Jason, a long-time Freebirds fanatic and two of his buddies that camped out on the sidewalk in front of the Lubbock store the night before it opened in order to be that store's first customers. First of all, we may win awards because of our unconventional ad campaigns, but you are the reason for wins. It's your fanaticisms that are remarkable. We're simply the carriers of the message. So - our hats off to you, our loyal customers, for coming up with such antics that when copied and depicted in foil characters they become inspiring and award winning. You are all winners to us!"

RIGHT ON, Freebird's. Right on...

What would you do?

2007-10-16T10:57:00.000-05:00

Today started in a really rocky way. I'm actually at a conference in Grapevine (near Dallas) at the moment. I flew into Love Field this morning amidst a HORRIBLE thunder storm. As we approached for our landing, we hit turbulence unlike any I had experienced before. In fact, it was so bad that the pilot actually climbed to try his approach again, only to realize it wasn't any better with our second pass. After making an announcement to the Flight Attendants that they should stay seated unless it's an absolute emergency, he smashed us down onto the runway, plunging through the storm and to the tarmac. It was one of those moments where the plane was eerily silent (except for the lady next to me whose nervous chatter nearly drove me insane). I had slept most of the trip, but the turbulence woke me up in a hurry and I began to pray. It was simple at first. "Jesus, I may be hanging out with you sooner than I thought." was where it started. It quickly turned to, "Should I start asking the people around me if they are ready to meet Jesus?" It was a real dilemma for me since I didn't want to cause a panic, but at the same time, I really wasn't sure that we'd actually "stick the landing." About the time I decided I should wake the Tech student next to me to ask him how his eternity looked, I saw the runway out his window and we were down. Relieved, I sighed a collective sigh with all the other passengers. As I look back over the whole debacle, I wonder if I missed an opportunity or if I did the right thing. What would you do? No, really, I'd like to know; what would you have done if you had been me? I do know that I have a greater appreciation for life as I write this. I also have a greater appreciation for the shortness of life and the urgency of reaching the lost. There's a lot of work to be done in Lubbock and around the world. And none of us know how much time we have left. So let's get busy.

Two Guys Who Shouldn't Sit Together

2007-10-08T10:34:00.000-05:00

This is a legit picture. These guys should really rethink sitting together. It's almost like one guy's shirt saying, "I'm with stupid," and the other guy's shirt saying, "Stupid."

Join My Ninja Army

2007-09-28T14:06:00.000-05:00

Are you on facebook? If so, click here and join my evil ninja army!

A Confession, of sorts (notice the tongue in cheek)

2007-09-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

Okay. I have a confession to make. It's a moment that I realized I have a deep dark part of me that surfaces daily. But I must tell the whole story so you get a sense of my depravity...please read with great understanding as I bear my soul.
Here we go. As many of you know, I ride a motorcycle as my primary means of transportation. I ride a 2001 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Standard with Thunder Headers and Thunder head pipes. It's not just loud, it's a deep throaty loud that every bike should sound like. There have been times when I've started "Harley" and the sound has caused women to scream from being startled and children began weeping, covering their ears, and running. It's so loud and deep that as I rode to the "office" one day, my wife was at the bank drive-thru (around behind the building) and she heard me ride by.
Anyway, I digress. My schedule is as such that it's usually mid to late dinner time before I head home in the evenings. And some nights it's later. And my usual traffic pattern is to ride by a restaurant that is in my neighborhood. It turns out there is an employee of that restaurant that has a white Ford Mustang with an alarm that is sensitive enough that my bike will set it off. It has become a daily event for me to see if I can set that alarm off with my bike. As I ride by it, I drop a gear and accelerate until I see the Mustang's headlights start flashing (since I can't hear the alarm because of the bike). It's a regular part of my day to set that alarm off. Well, last Friday, as I watched the lights flashing and imagined the horn honking, this evil laugh escaped my lips..."Mwuaah hahahaa!" Then it occured to me: what if the kid who owns that Mustang thinks there is something wrong with his alarm and keeps taking it in to get it worked on? What if he thinks that someone in our neighborhood keeps trying to break into his car at work? What if he thinks his alarm doesn't work and quits setting it? All because I enjoy setting it off...Does it make me evil if I enjoy, nay seek out, setting this alarm off daily? What do you think?
Well, there it is. My dark secret is out. If any of you know where I could find help for this devious addiction, please let me know.

My Little Dare Devil

2007-09-08T01:52:00.000-05:00

"My little Dare Devil" When I say this, you probably think of the boy child, but it's not! Last night, Cayla, Jeremiah, and I went to our local amusement park for a school-wide event. Now, our kids think Joyland is a lot like Six Flags, but it's not. It's actually like a permanent traveling carnival. And most of the time, our kids want to ride the little boats that go in circles, or the little cars that go in circles, or the little planes that go in circles (you see a pattern here?). Well, last night I almost "tossed my cookies" riding the big rides with Cayla. She couldn't get enough! Jeremiah had met up with some of his friends and was riding rides he normally wouldn't ride. But the peer pressure begins early, and he went with the guys!
Cayla, however, spent most of her time riding with me, running from big ride to big ride, unable to get enough. She rode the big rollercoaster 3 times, the tilt-a-whirl twice, the Octopus, and several other lose your lunch kinda rides. There were some great moments that stood out to me as she and I rode together. Both times included me looking at her with her face in the wind and hair blowing back. She had this look of enraptured delight as she squealed with glee! The one moments that typified the night happened on this ride that we call "The Umbrella Ride." It's a ride that goes in a circle, but the circle is at a 45 degree angle to the ground, so it goes from ground level to about 35 feet in the air. And, although it's going in a circle, it's at a HIGH rate of speed so you feel like you are launching into space with each pass. Imagine a ferris wheel on steroids and leaning severly and you will have a pretty good picture. She was sitting on my right, with her legs extended into space, hair blowing straight back, and her eyes squinting. We were on the downside of the circle when I began to watch her to make sure she was having fun. As we bottomed out and started the upswing, her mouth curled into this elated smile and a squeal came out as she leaned her head back just a little. I'm sure she was imagining flying. I, too, was lost in the moment. But my joy came in seeing my little girl enthralled by the experience. As the ride began to slow, she looked at me and said, "Again!" I told her there were many more rides, and if we had time we would come back As the ride stopped, she looked at the attendant, an older man probably in his mid 60's, and told him, "Thank you." Then she took off running for the next near death experience. As we went back to The Galaxy, the big rollercoaster, she looked at me and said, "Thanks for cancelling your trip to come to Joyland with me." I was supposed to be meeting some friends to talk church planting and spend some time dreaming, planning, and being encouraged. I had actually told the kids we couldn't got to Joyland because I had to be out of town and Caryn had rehearsal. They were upset, but had been gracious to me since we were going to schedule something special later. Circumstances began to pile up on me yesterday morning, though, and my trip had to be cancelled because there was much to do here. Little did I know that Cayla would have such a good time. And I would have never guessed that she would understand enough to be grateful for cancelling the trip.
"My Little Dare Devil" was why my trip needed to be cancelled. And, because of last night, I see her in a different light. Usually the last to try new things, she really surprised me. I learned I have to help her see the upside to the new things, and not just ask her to do them. I can really see her heading into the dark world to make a difference for the Kingdom, hair blowing in the wind, mouth curled in a slight smile, and squealing all the way as she launches into the adventures of life. I also learned that I can slow down and enjoy the ride and not be so ready to rush off to the next thing. Some rides should be enjoyed twice! I'm glad I stayed home.

My Own Theme Music

2007-09-01T11:20:00.001-05:00

Du du da du da du...Sing it with me...
So maybe having a radio on Harley isn't the greatest idea...or it's the coolest thing ever. I have a habit of tuning into the classic rock station here every now and then to see what's on. I love the old Boston, Kansas, Rush, etc.
Well, twice this week "Bad To The Bone" by George Thuroughgood and the Destroyers came on while I was riding. On a big black Harley, when that song comes on, it's like having your own theme music. You slow down a little bit, settle into your seat a little deeper, and just know that you are who he's singing about!
Of course, the converse is true, too. Just after that, Sammy Hagar's "I Can't Drive 55" came on...and the next thing I knew I was zipping through traffic to the pace of the song...

The Work Of God

2007-08-28T23:43:00.000-05:00

"Then they asked him, 'What must we do to do the works God requires?' Jesus answered, 'The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.' So they asked him, 'What miraculous sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.' Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.'" - John 6: 28-33
The generations before us had a reputation for hard work. Our grandparents, for the most part, were known for their "pick yourself up by your boot straps" mentality and work ethic. Such is their reputation, that their generation was named "The Builder Generation." It's an attitude that permeates our American culture. When it comes to social justice, benevolence, or welfare, most USAmericans believe that you get what you earn. And we, like them, often times shift into "make it happen mode," knowing that God helps those who help themselves (that's not Scriptural thinking, though). I know that I find myself in that mindset often: If I am going to succeed or survive, I've got to do more and do better. I awoke this morning amazed at the fact that I have a house to live in, and took a certain amount of pride in the fact that I make my house payments and I am a provider. I actually earn enough money to provide a house, utilities, clothing, food, cars, etc. for my family. And it feels good. Then, during my quiet time, I came to this passage. Isn't it funny how often the Bible speaks to us in a relevant and timely fashion? In my morning of triumphant thinking, God brings His Word to my mind to remind me that I do not really provide for my family. It's Him who provides. The Jews of Jesus' day were guilty of similar thinking. They had given credited Moses for their provision instead of God. And now they were asking Jesus to provide for them like Moses so they would know He was from God. As always, Jesus' response is prolific: I am your provision. Initially, they ask Jesus what work they must be doing to be in good standing with God. He tells them that God's work is to believe in the one He has sent. So they tell Him, "If God sent you, provide for us." And Jesus reveals His nature to them as the provision they are seeking. That ought to be comforting, wouldn't you think? But, by the time this dialogue is over, Jesus has offended everyone and only His 12 remain. Does the thought that it's all up to Jesus offend you? Your gut reaction may be an emphatic "NO!" But think about it this way: do you really, truly, honestly trust Him and look to Him as your provision? If the answer to that is an emphatic "NO!" then maybe there's some work to be done; the work of believing in the One God sent to be your provision. In the midst of hard times, struggles, and turmoil, where do you look? Are you looking for a miracle? Are you trying to figure out how you could work harder to make things happen? Or do you look to the One who is your provision and trust Him to provide? Easy words to say, hard words to do. But necessary, none the less. Remember the words of Solomon, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding. In all your ways remember Him. Then He will make your paths smooth and straight." (Prov. 3:5-6 NIRV)

Speaking of Big Catfish

2007-08-22T13:08:00.000-05:00

My friend, Madd Matt, sent me these pictures taken at Lake Conroe near Houston. This catfish is slightly smaller than the one that produced the skeleton in my last post! Yes, that's an inflated basketball in his mouth.

One BIG Catfish

2007-08-19T16:14:00.001-05:00

Here's a picture of Jeremiah, who is just over 4' tall along side a catfish skeleton that is just over 4' long! Pretty huge. I read about a catfish that was just over 4' long and it weighed over 150 lbs. The fisherman trying to catch it was drug out of the boat to his death! 150 lbs. is a big fish.