We were having dinner with our friends, The Harris's, last Sunday evening (watching Carolina Basketball - Go Heels) when Tim said that Tristan had never had lobster so they went to Red Lobster to let him try it one time. When their lobster arrived it was horrible. The worst lobster they had ever eaten. Red Lobster's webpage states "Driven by his passion for fresh seafood and determined to settle for nothing less than exceptional quality and selection, Bill Darden opened his first Red Lobster in 1968. It wasn’t long before such superior fish and flavor were recognized. Today, with more than 680 restaurants, Red Lobster is known as the foremost expert in fresh seafood."
Now with a with name like Red Lobster wouldn't you think they would strive to have the best lobster anywhere? Not just in Asheville, but the best anywhere? I had some bad lobster in the Bahamas, but I didn't have high expectations. But I would expect lobster at Red Lobster to be slammin'.
So when I see the word church in a name, should I not expect the same? For that to be the best church? How do we measure best? It's all about experience when you are dealing with intangibles. Red Lobster serves tangible goods. I can taste my lobster or shrimp or fish. But feelings are intangibles. I want someone sitting at the table with me to say last year on Christmas Eve your message really spoke to me and I remember "xyz" like it was yesterday.
The most memorable experience I ever had at Covenant was one Easter when Mack Strange was the Pastor. He had a cross, preached a message on sin, and let us hammer a nail into the cross. We left in silence. I can still remember the sound of the nails. I'll never forget that experience.
I want to create experiences on Sunday morning that our children can go home and tell their parents about. Where they experience the word, not just hear about it. Christmas Eve Service at 5:00 will be an experience. Look for more details to follow.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Boys versus Girls
Our staff is 1/2 men and 1/2 women. Today we had staff meeting at Fun Depot. We needed a little R & R and team building. So the first thing the guys want to do is kill the girls at lazer tag. Little did they think...Tracy loves video games, Amy is highly competitive and Glenda is a trained sharp shooter. I only scored 6500 points (half as many as Amy) but we beat them. It was so much fun.
Go girls! And, BTW, we beat Claude at skee ball too!
Go girls! And, BTW, we beat Claude at skee ball too!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
HalloWest
Many Pastor bloggers debated going to Halloween events, dressing up, churches calling Halloween events Harvest or Fall Festivals, etc. But after attending Hallowest last night I know that there is a need for the community to pull together and celebrate together.
Common Saints http://www.commonsaints.net/ had some of the crowd dancing and the babies bopping. The live band added so much to the event. Someone from the apartments across the street heard them playing and came over to check it out. The dual lane slide always had a line. We "ran" out of candy, cooked a few hundred hot dogs, and hosted the community for a night of laughs.
Over 174 kids under the age of 12 attended the event with only 70 of them being Covenant Kids. Around 600 people attended this two hour event including volunteers, parents, grandparents, neighbors, teenagers, kids and church staff. Word on the street has it that next year Halloween is on Friday and Hallowest will be open a little longer!
Thanks to the 40+ volunteers that manned the rides, food, trough or treat, glow in the dark putt-putt and registration. You guys rock! And a big thanks to Sheriff Jim Sanders for all his marketing, dedication and direction.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Chase the Lion
This is a little known scripture in the Bible. It actually turns out to be quite the story. Mark Batterson, Pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC has a lot of insight into this story. Watch Video
Now it has been turned into small group material. I suggest reading the book and then doing the study with your small group. Or do it with your older children. It's a great study!
I read this book, but I hear college students and high school students really enjoy it. I think it could be a great stocking stuffer (the book).
Everyone has a "Lion" to chase. What's yours?
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
New Book - Going All The Way
Craig Groeschel has written a new book, Going All The Way. This book is meant to help people prepare for a Godly marriage.
I've read two of his other books that were phenomenal. You should gift anyone you know preparing for marriage. I would also think it would be a great book for youth pastors or young adult pastors to read for counseling information.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Wearing Christianity on Your Sleeve
Last night Mike & I went to Wild Wings for dinner. We like to play trivia. I wish I could report that I beat him, but last night was his night. He won.
I had on my Hallowest Shirt and as we were leaving a girl approached us (she was very persistent) and told us that she was new in town, in a bad place and needed food. Could we go back into the restaurant or meet her at the convenience store and buy her some food? My first thoughts always are why did you leave where you were and come to a new place where you don't know anyone and can't get food? Did you leave the safety (or maybe unsafe) haven at your parents to find freedom and mooch off strangers? Or are you truly in this world alone and needing help from strangers?
We are three blocks from the shelter where they just served a meal. They don't let you in if you are high so it made me wonder. I don't want to perpetuate the homeless epidemic in Asheville; however, it was hard to say no. Also, knowing that on my back was our church name and website. But I honestly feel I do more with my money by giving it to our church to help ABCCM or by giving it to ABCCM than I do by giving it to someone on the street.
All I could think about was Francis Chan at Orange 2007 saying do we love our neighbors as ourselves Matthew 22:39 and will we get to heaven and be asked why we didn't feed Jesus? Matthew 25:40 John 21:15
Anyone any thoughts?
I had on my Hallowest Shirt and as we were leaving a girl approached us (she was very persistent) and told us that she was new in town, in a bad place and needed food. Could we go back into the restaurant or meet her at the convenience store and buy her some food? My first thoughts always are why did you leave where you were and come to a new place where you don't know anyone and can't get food? Did you leave the safety (or maybe unsafe) haven at your parents to find freedom and mooch off strangers? Or are you truly in this world alone and needing help from strangers?
We are three blocks from the shelter where they just served a meal. They don't let you in if you are high so it made me wonder. I don't want to perpetuate the homeless epidemic in Asheville; however, it was hard to say no. Also, knowing that on my back was our church name and website. But I honestly feel I do more with my money by giving it to our church to help ABCCM or by giving it to ABCCM than I do by giving it to someone on the street.
All I could think about was Francis Chan at Orange 2007 saying do we love our neighbors as ourselves Matthew 22:39 and will we get to heaven and be asked why we didn't feed Jesus? Matthew 25:40 John 21:15
Anyone any thoughts?
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Challenge to Fathers
http://www.evotional.com/2007/10/three-challenges.html
Mark Batterson, Pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC is on a year-long quest with his son Parker. In the link you will find some of his plans to disciple his son. It's so exciting to me when I hear about fathers taking an interest in not on the physical growth of their child, but also the intellectual and spiritual growth.
Father, thank you for the dads in our community. Let them see their children's spiritual growth as important. Give them tools to teach their children about You & Your son and the desire to draw their child into a growing relationship with You. Let them be lights to other fathers and let them have relationships with their children. Amen!
Mark Batterson, Pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC is on a year-long quest with his son Parker. In the link you will find some of his plans to disciple his son. It's so exciting to me when I hear about fathers taking an interest in not on the physical growth of their child, but also the intellectual and spiritual growth.
Father, thank you for the dads in our community. Let them see their children's spiritual growth as important. Give them tools to teach their children about You & Your son and the desire to draw their child into a growing relationship with You. Let them be lights to other fathers and let them have relationships with their children. Amen!
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Parents are Clueless
One of the churches I follow for wisdom and tips (Newspring in Anderson, SC) is getting ready to do a parenting series on Sunday mornings. In doing so they put up bulletin boards around their county with a website www.parentsareclueless.com that gives students and parents the opportunity to anonymously write things either about their children or their parent. I started reading through the comments and I'm in tears. What children are going through, what parents feel, hopelessness, fear, anger, regret, and actually some thankfulness. It made me rethink my relationship with Brooklyn.
You might want to check it out.
Have a great rest of your weekend and I hope to see you tomorrow morning!
You might want to check it out.
Have a great rest of your weekend and I hope to see you tomorrow morning!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Modus Operandi
I just read a verse that rocked my world!
I Thesalonnians 2:8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
As we minister to children that is what we are doing. We love the children so much that we share our lives and the gospel with them.
I am honored to serve with a team where we care for one another.
I Thesalonnians 2:8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
As we minister to children that is what we are doing. We love the children so much that we share our lives and the gospel with them.
I am honored to serve with a team where we care for one another.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Good news part 2
I won't pretend to ever think that we are past sin. We were created in God's image, but then Eve partook of the fruit (I would like to get her take on this now and can't wait to talk to her in Heaven). Obviously we are not sinless. We are creatures that have choice in a world full of sin. So how do we, claiming to be Christian, make the right choices and eliminate sin?
Romans 5:9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
And how does grace play into this whole scenario? I guess I'm baffled at times that we serve such a loving heavenly Father and we continue to sin. One who gave His blood for my sin. I'm guilty. I sin. We all sin. We have an assurance of being saved from eternal wrath and have the hope of an eternity with Him in Heaven because of His sacrifice.
How do we serve an intangible God in a world filled with instant gratification and more importantly how do we lead others toward that life of accepting Christ and moving toward a growing relationship with Him? And how do we do this while remaining sinners.
Isn't that why the hypocrite statements abound? Many wear a tag that says I'm a Christian, I attend Down the Road Church, My stuff doesn't stink. Then we are seen by the unchurched as lowly sinners and how dare we invite them to church after what we have done. How do we lead others into a relationship when they see our sin?
I think the answer is complex. Sin will always be around as long as we live on Earth. We should go boldly before the throne to find mercy & grace. It's all about a relationship. We know we are sinners and need grace. He's our loving Heavenly Father and will give it when we ask. He was tempted, yet in His perfection He did not sin.
15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are,yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Father, today I come to You as a child with sin. Please take away the sin. Cast it into the sea of forgetfulness. Let Your grace and mercy wash over me. Allow me the opportunity to grow in relationship with You. And let me have opportunities to lead others into a growing relationship with You. Let them not see my flaws, but rather the hope that is found in relationship with You.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
And how does grace play into this whole scenario? I guess I'm baffled at times that we serve such a loving heavenly Father and we continue to sin. One who gave His blood for my sin. I'm guilty. I sin. We all sin. We have an assurance of being saved from eternal wrath and have the hope of an eternity with Him in Heaven because of His sacrifice.
How do we serve an intangible God in a world filled with instant gratification and more importantly how do we lead others toward that life of accepting Christ and moving toward a growing relationship with Him? And how do we do this while remaining sinners.
Isn't that why the hypocrite statements abound? Many wear a tag that says I'm a Christian, I attend Down the Road Church, My stuff doesn't stink. Then we are seen by the unchurched as lowly sinners and how dare we invite them to church after what we have done. How do we lead others into a relationship when they see our sin?
I think the answer is complex. Sin will always be around as long as we live on Earth. We should go boldly before the throne to find mercy & grace. It's all about a relationship. We know we are sinners and need grace. He's our loving Heavenly Father and will give it when we ask. He was tempted, yet in His perfection He did not sin.
15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are,yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Father, today I come to You as a child with sin. Please take away the sin. Cast it into the sea of forgetfulness. Let Your grace and mercy wash over me. Allow me the opportunity to grow in relationship with You. And let me have opportunities to lead others into a growing relationship with You. Let them not see my flaws, but rather the hope that is found in relationship with You.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Good news
Well today Dr. Smith called and he said that the pathology came back good so I don't have to have any more surgery on the precancerous mole. Yeah.
So, I was thinking about this situation. First, I have a mole that looks a little bad, not too bad, but menacing. Then I find that after shaving it off it is actually worse than first thought so the Dr. removes a 1 inch margin and sews me back just to make sure it never comes back as cancer.
What about sin? That little sin. That sin of say eating too much or gossiping or lying. At first it's just a little white lie or overeating once. Then we feel guilty and try to quit. But the news comes back bad and we overeat. Or our friend gets mad at us and we call around telling anyone who will listen about the injustice.
So how do we create margin around sin so it quits growing and affecting our lives? Genesis 4:6-8 God tells Cain that sin wants to master us. How do we become the master? How do we overcome? Psalm 3: 3 states that God is a shield around us. So He creates the margin.
How do we totally remove sin in the first place at its roots?
How? More tomorrow...
So, I was thinking about this situation. First, I have a mole that looks a little bad, not too bad, but menacing. Then I find that after shaving it off it is actually worse than first thought so the Dr. removes a 1 inch margin and sews me back just to make sure it never comes back as cancer.
What about sin? That little sin. That sin of say eating too much or gossiping or lying. At first it's just a little white lie or overeating once. Then we feel guilty and try to quit. But the news comes back bad and we overeat. Or our friend gets mad at us and we call around telling anyone who will listen about the injustice.
So how do we create margin around sin so it quits growing and affecting our lives? Genesis 4:6-8 God tells Cain that sin wants to master us. How do we become the master? How do we overcome? Psalm 3: 3 states that God is a shield around us. So He creates the margin.
How do we totally remove sin in the first place at its roots?
How? More tomorrow...
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Could you become a US Citizen today?
Officials have released updated questions that are part of the naturalization test required for immigrants to become citizens. You can go here to take part of the quiz and see how well you know the United States ...
Monday, October 1, 2007
California
(To view pictures click on the title above. You will have to log into snapfish)
Mike & I celebrated our fifth anniversary in March. I had the stomach flu so I dined that night on grits. His mom was sick at the time so we decided to postpone a celebration until fall.
So on September 20 we got on a plane and headed to LA. Brooklyn was jealous that we were going to Hollywood. There were three highlights of the trip for me:
Mike & I celebrated our fifth anniversary in March. I had the stomach flu so I dined that night on grits. His mom was sick at the time so we decided to postpone a celebration until fall.
So on September 20 we got on a plane and headed to LA. Brooklyn was jealous that we were going to Hollywood. There were three highlights of the trip for me:
- Watching DL practice with Mitch Kupchak, GM of the LA Lakers. Mike hung out with him at Carolina so we contacted him when we knew we were going and he graciously invited us over. It was fun getting to see their practice facility and some court action.
- The VIP tour at Warner Brothers. I really wanted to do the five hour tour but it was sold out (next time!). So we did the 2.5 hour tour which was a lot of fun. It gave me some interesting ideas for props for CM.
- Nine days with no responsibilities except turning on Garmin Girl as soon as we got in the car and making sure we had a few plans for each day.
Other interesting things: The beaches, the weather (it rained for the first time in 150 days while we were there), Venice Beach, Santa Monica...they were holding auditions for a new dance show while we were there and we weren't smart enough to realize it. There were so many stars there that we could have seen :(, Balboa Island, Wilma at Balboa Island, a 755 sq. ft. house for a mere $6million at Balboa Island, Laguna Beach, Hollywood, Rodeo Drive (calling Stephanie on Rodeo Drive), donut searches, San Juan Capistrano, walking the whole gas lamp district in San Diego and ending up eating at the place we started, Trader Joes (yummy), Garmin Girl - what would we have done without her and jet lag.
Thank you Mike for realizing how important it is for us to have quality time away. I had a great time. You are a wonderful husband.
Peace, Love & Vitamin C,
Tina
Great news
On a personal note thanks to those of you who have been praying for me. I had a wonderful vacation with Mike. I'm so glad to be home as I missed Brooklyn so much. I'll post some pictures and tell some stories later this week.
I went to the doctor this morning and she said the meds are controlling my Lupus. We had a great discussion and I think we have a game plan to do some long term controlling.
I went this afternoon and had my precancerous mole reexcised for margins. I have felt little pain. It's in a sore spot, but it will be fine after it heals.
Your prayers matter. Pray for the CM Team, pray for their health, safety and for their families. Pray for the CM Leadership Team as they help me make decisions. Pray for my family as we craft family time away from ministry time. And pray for me that I will be able to listen to God, hear when my family needs me and spend some me time occasionally.
Peace, Love & Vitamin C,
Tina
I went to the doctor this morning and she said the meds are controlling my Lupus. We had a great discussion and I think we have a game plan to do some long term controlling.
I went this afternoon and had my precancerous mole reexcised for margins. I have felt little pain. It's in a sore spot, but it will be fine after it heals.
Your prayers matter. Pray for the CM Team, pray for their health, safety and for their families. Pray for the CM Leadership Team as they help me make decisions. Pray for my family as we craft family time away from ministry time. And pray for me that I will be able to listen to God, hear when my family needs me and spend some me time occasionally.
Peace, Love & Vitamin C,
Tina
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Surprises
Well, I tried to surprise her. Last year on Brooklyn's birthday I told her she better enjoy her party because it was the last one until she turns 13. My mom gave me a surprise party when I was about 10 so I thought I should do the same.
I didn't have a ton of money to spend and neither did her dad so we planned a small bowling party. She spends half the day with both of us on her birthday (I've only had to miss one of her birthday's because of a test at work that I could not miss). So he planned to bring her to the bowling alley at 2:00 pm and we would all already be there.
So I ran around and got the cookie (she didn't want a cake) and we had to get drinks from the bowling alley. I sent emails to all the moms because these girls are such good friends I was so afraid one of them would tell her.
She got to the bowling alley and Mike was standing in the front door watching the Carolina Football game. I was just telling him we needed to move. Well, I backed up - right into a table of golf balls. They went everywhere. I said to Brooklyn, "Surprise!" I was hoping we could all be down there and surprise her. So I ruined it a little.
But she was actually speechless. It was wonderful. So much fun! And she is quite the bowler (she won both games).
I love being a mom!
The Avenue 2007
Today was The Avenue. Each Sunday morning we have an environment (think couches, moon chairs, a fridge) just for 5th & 6th graders and then once a month we head out for a field trip. Well about 18 of them are showing up each week.
We had a blast today. We went to Asheville Pizza for a little lunch and then we headed back to the church for some disc golf.
Thanks to Mike (my wonderful husband) and Josh Ray for volunteering with this group. It was a long day, but it was sooooo much fun.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Bitter Sweet
Tomorrow my princess, Brooklyn, turns 10. For her birthday she is having a surprise bowling party for all her little chickadees that hang out together. She has no idea. In fact, since her last birthday I've been telling her she doesn't get a party. She thinks her dad is giving her a cookout next weekend.
Then, Taylor, her really good friend is going to spend the night, go to church with her on Sunday and then play disc golf with us and the other 5th & 6th graders from church.
Why a surprise? Well, my mom did the same thing for me when I was about her age and it is probably the only surprise my mom ever kept from me. It was very memorable and I want to do the same for Brooklyn. Create memories.
So why bitter sweet. Well, she asked for a shopping spree for her birthday. She wants gift cards. That is all she asked for and she wants them from JC Penny, Wal-Mart, Kmart, Dicks Sporting Goods, Old Navy & Kohls. It's the first time she's really asked for clothes and not a toy. So while it will start to save me some $$$, it is really bittersweet as it means she is going into that next phase.
Happy Birthday Brooklyn!
Then, Taylor, her really good friend is going to spend the night, go to church with her on Sunday and then play disc golf with us and the other 5th & 6th graders from church.
Why a surprise? Well, my mom did the same thing for me when I was about her age and it is probably the only surprise my mom ever kept from me. It was very memorable and I want to do the same for Brooklyn. Create memories.
So why bitter sweet. Well, she asked for a shopping spree for her birthday. She wants gift cards. That is all she asked for and she wants them from JC Penny, Wal-Mart, Kmart, Dicks Sporting Goods, Old Navy & Kohls. It's the first time she's really asked for clothes and not a toy. So while it will start to save me some $$$, it is really bittersweet as it means she is going into that next phase.
Happy Birthday Brooklyn!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
That call we all dread
Today I was in line at CVS picking up my mom's medicine. The girl behind the window was in a bad mood and she couldn't find all of mom's medicine. About that time the phone rang. It was a number I didn't recognize. I normally don't answer the phone in that situation; however, I felt that I should.
The voice on the other line said, "Ms. Harkey" and I said, "Yes?" He said, "This is Dr. Smith, are you having a good day?" I said, "Yes, but I'm in line at CVS." He said, "I need to talk to you - can I hold or would you like me to call you back?" In the past he has always said, "Your pathology looks fine. I just wanted to let you know. Have a good day."
Now a little background. I'm a tumor registrar by trade. When a dermatologist calls and says he wants to talk to me and about a week ago he just scraped some of my skin away it makes my heart beat faster and my head start spinning.
He promised to call me back in about 10 minutes. He's a doctor and most doctors cannot tell time. So really in about 35 minutes he called back (I'm sure he was busy calling other patients). He told me that neither of the places he removed were malignant or cancer (whew!) but one of them was precancerous and he needed to reexcise it for margins. Now he didn't use that terminology but I knew what he meant. Okay, we got it early. That is a good thing.
What he didn't tell me that I know is that they are going to examine the heck out of the margins and make sure there is no change and that I should not miss my yearly examination anymore no matter how humiliated it makes me feel. So on October 1 I get to go see my rheumatologist about my Lupus at 8:45 and then I get to go see Dr. Smith to get a straight excision (I've never had any of them really get it that straight) with a few stitches. At least he let me wait until I get back from California. Oh, he did remind me to wear sunscreen on my trip (at least 50 SPF and don't forget the hat)!
So if you are late for your mammogram, pap smear, colonoscopy, skin screening, prostate exam or DRE I beseech you dear brother or sister to make an appointment tomorrow. Early is always better!
The voice on the other line said, "Ms. Harkey" and I said, "Yes?" He said, "This is Dr. Smith, are you having a good day?" I said, "Yes, but I'm in line at CVS." He said, "I need to talk to you - can I hold or would you like me to call you back?" In the past he has always said, "Your pathology looks fine. I just wanted to let you know. Have a good day."
Now a little background. I'm a tumor registrar by trade. When a dermatologist calls and says he wants to talk to me and about a week ago he just scraped some of my skin away it makes my heart beat faster and my head start spinning.
He promised to call me back in about 10 minutes. He's a doctor and most doctors cannot tell time. So really in about 35 minutes he called back (I'm sure he was busy calling other patients). He told me that neither of the places he removed were malignant or cancer (whew!) but one of them was precancerous and he needed to reexcise it for margins. Now he didn't use that terminology but I knew what he meant. Okay, we got it early. That is a good thing.
What he didn't tell me that I know is that they are going to examine the heck out of the margins and make sure there is no change and that I should not miss my yearly examination anymore no matter how humiliated it makes me feel. So on October 1 I get to go see my rheumatologist about my Lupus at 8:45 and then I get to go see Dr. Smith to get a straight excision (I've never had any of them really get it that straight) with a few stitches. At least he let me wait until I get back from California. Oh, he did remind me to wear sunscreen on my trip (at least 50 SPF and don't forget the hat)!
So if you are late for your mammogram, pap smear, colonoscopy, skin screening, prostate exam or DRE I beseech you dear brother or sister to make an appointment tomorrow. Early is always better!
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Wow what a great morning
I still don't have a final count. But what an amazing morning. It was awesome to see all the kids, all the excitement, and how much everyone was digging Jesus.
I had a plan that totally got changed about the first week of August. But that's okay, because I know that God had it all under control.
Our fifth and sixth grade parents were so pumped that their kids were excited about church. Grapple, it's a wonderful thing. Group has done a fabulous job putting this curriculum together for this age group.
I was so excited to see several groups of kids run into church this morning. I will say that the 1st - 4th grade group is a little jealous of the 5th & 6th grade. That's okay though. One girl's mom was pushing her into class and she said that she didn't want to go and then she saw a friend and all was well with the world!
Tyler, I doubt you read my blog but if you do, thanks for calling your friends and making sure they were all there this morning. I hope that your expectations were met or exceeded.
Thanks to all the returning leaders and to the ones that served all summer and are still serving. And another huge thanks to the new leaders and to the Student Impact Group. You guys are amazing.
Someone said to me this morning, "I know you are worried about the numbers." And my answer to that is "No, I worry about what those numbers represent. They all represent a soul in the kingdom."
Deuteronomy 6
This scripture tells us to impress on our children that the Lord our God is one. And to love Him. Thank you leaders for loving our children so much that you want to share God with them.
I had a plan that totally got changed about the first week of August. But that's okay, because I know that God had it all under control.
Our fifth and sixth grade parents were so pumped that their kids were excited about church. Grapple, it's a wonderful thing. Group has done a fabulous job putting this curriculum together for this age group.
I was so excited to see several groups of kids run into church this morning. I will say that the 1st - 4th grade group is a little jealous of the 5th & 6th grade. That's okay though. One girl's mom was pushing her into class and she said that she didn't want to go and then she saw a friend and all was well with the world!
Tyler, I doubt you read my blog but if you do, thanks for calling your friends and making sure they were all there this morning. I hope that your expectations were met or exceeded.
Thanks to all the returning leaders and to the ones that served all summer and are still serving. And another huge thanks to the new leaders and to the Student Impact Group. You guys are amazing.
Someone said to me this morning, "I know you are worried about the numbers." And my answer to that is "No, I worry about what those numbers represent. They all represent a soul in the kingdom."
Deuteronomy 6
This scripture tells us to impress on our children that the Lord our God is one. And to love Him. Thank you leaders for loving our children so much that you want to share God with them.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Thankful
I'm so thankful for wonderful people who give of themselves even when it isn't convenient or when it isn't what they were planning for their weekend.
Thank you Sharon, Cynthia, Teresa, Kathy, Mike, Steph and Paula for helping with Children's Ministry Live. Thank you Nick & Tristan for helping clean up. Thank you Dominique & Gianna for letting me borrow your mom for a little while. And thanks to Sharon, Lee, Angela, and Carol for the cookies.
It is such a pleasure to serve along side you!
Romans 12:10-12
10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Thank you Sharon, Cynthia, Teresa, Kathy, Mike, Steph and Paula for helping with Children's Ministry Live. Thank you Nick & Tristan for helping clean up. Thank you Dominique & Gianna for letting me borrow your mom for a little while. And thanks to Sharon, Lee, Angela, and Carol for the cookies.
It is such a pleasure to serve along side you!
Romans 12:10-12
10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Heart Matters
Proverbs 4:23Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
One of my dear volunteers shared this scripture with me when I first took the job of Director of Children's Ministry. I had no idea how important this scripture would become to me.
I don't always guard my heart. There are times when I let issues get to me.
I pray if you are reading this that you guard your heart. Keep it soft. Don't let the thorns of the day harden you to God's love and goodness. His mercies are renewed every morning!
So many promises He has promised us. So guard your heart. Keep it soft.
God, thank you for your mercy. Without trial, temptation, and adversity we wouldn't need it. Keep my heart soft to the things of you and let me learn that men will disappoint; however, you will always be there with outstretched arms ready for your child. Let me be open to your conversation. To your path. To your plan for my life. Amen.
One of my dear volunteers shared this scripture with me when I first took the job of Director of Children's Ministry. I had no idea how important this scripture would become to me.
I don't always guard my heart. There are times when I let issues get to me.
I pray if you are reading this that you guard your heart. Keep it soft. Don't let the thorns of the day harden you to God's love and goodness. His mercies are renewed every morning!
So many promises He has promised us. So guard your heart. Keep it soft.
God, thank you for your mercy. Without trial, temptation, and adversity we wouldn't need it. Keep my heart soft to the things of you and let me learn that men will disappoint; however, you will always be there with outstretched arms ready for your child. Let me be open to your conversation. To your path. To your plan for my life. Amen.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Enka Football
Well, the tradition continues. I go to a game and they lose. No, I didn't jinx them it seems to also be their tradition. Enka has an awesome softball team and some of their other sports are very competitive; however, their football team just can't seem to find their groove.
As Stephanie Harris stated in her comment on my last blog the entertainment at the game is the band. I was in the band when I was at Enka. Wow, they have changed. We couldn't wear makeup, have our hair down, we did traditional marching (knees up high) not the shuffling they do today, and we had to paint the soles of those ugly white shoes black. But the band is still playing much of the same music we played; however, they now bring xylophones, bass guitars, keyboards and drum sets on the field. The other similarity is Mr. Lackey did not allow us to use music during the performance. We had to memorize all of it. It appears this band director requires the same.
I was amazed watching the band. I wonder what their formations actually are as we were sitting on the 50 yard line just not far enough to make out the intricacies of their design. It was great to see the camaraderie that I remember from band.
I reminisced. They lost the game. The band was great. Not much different from 20 years ago.
As Stephanie Harris stated in her comment on my last blog the entertainment at the game is the band. I was in the band when I was at Enka. Wow, they have changed. We couldn't wear makeup, have our hair down, we did traditional marching (knees up high) not the shuffling they do today, and we had to paint the soles of those ugly white shoes black. But the band is still playing much of the same music we played; however, they now bring xylophones, bass guitars, keyboards and drum sets on the field. The other similarity is Mr. Lackey did not allow us to use music during the performance. We had to memorize all of it. It appears this band director requires the same.
I was amazed watching the band. I wonder what their formations actually are as we were sitting on the 50 yard line just not far enough to make out the intricacies of their design. It was great to see the camaraderie that I remember from band.
I reminisced. They lost the game. The band was great. Not much different from 20 years ago.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Kicking off Labor Day Weekend
Tonight our family is heading over to the New Enka High stadium (new to me) to watch Enka pound (one can be hopeful) East Henderson.
Brooklyn will eventually attend Enka unless we move or something so I thought it would be good to introduce her to football. My daddy taught me the game on TV watching the Dallas Cowboys. So when I was in marching band I understood the game and what was going on. My best friend, Michelle, was clueless. She didn't understand downs, penalties, or even kickoffs. So I decided that I want Brooklyn to have the opportunity to learn about the sport before she is in high school and attending games without me. I think for her it will probably be an opportunity to learn more about socializing!
I hope everyone reading this has a fun, safe & happy Labor Day. Make some family memories this weekend.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Why Care?
Why should we care if children have a relevant environment on Sunday mornings to go to? They could just as easily go with their parents to worship.
The attitude could be: oh, they won't behave or they can't sit still.
What if the attitude were instead: let's teach children on a level so they can understand that God made them, God loves them, and Jesus wants to be their forever friend. Or what about teaching elementary students that they can trust Jesus no matter what, they should treat others the way they want to be treated or that they have a place on Jesus' team?
There are so many students in just the 28730, 28803 & 28805 area codes that don't know Jesus (not to mention the rest of our county). They aren't exposed or haven't been invited to an irresistable environment made just for their age-group with adults seeking to build sincere relationships with them that show them the love of Christ.
Do you know a child you could bring to church? September 9 is the kick-off at Covenant for our fall programs. The Avenue for 5th & 6th grade is getting an overhaul complete with colorful Adirondack chairs, moon chairs, a couch, a fridge with drinks, snacks, and a cool small group curriculum - Grapple. The 1st - 4th grade will be checking our Johnny Rogers and KIDMO curriculum with A.I.M. (Agents in Motion).
The Preschoolers (2-5 years & K) will be starting a Bible Heroes series using Lil K' (think Blues Clues meets Jesus). Ms. Paula gets her very own group this fall with the toddlers. They are going to "study" their Beginner's Bible. I think Ms. Paula and Tristan will be doing a lot of playing and some story tellin'.
And last, but definitely not least Ms. Sherrye, Ashley & Ms. Liz will be taking care of the babies. Those not quite big enough for a small group environment will hang out in 107 on Sunday morning and they have a fridge in their room too, but I doubt the fifth & sixth graders will want to raid it :)
Don't forget - invite someone to join us!
The attitude could be: oh, they won't behave or they can't sit still.
What if the attitude were instead: let's teach children on a level so they can understand that God made them, God loves them, and Jesus wants to be their forever friend. Or what about teaching elementary students that they can trust Jesus no matter what, they should treat others the way they want to be treated or that they have a place on Jesus' team?
There are so many students in just the 28730, 28803 & 28805 area codes that don't know Jesus (not to mention the rest of our county). They aren't exposed or haven't been invited to an irresistable environment made just for their age-group with adults seeking to build sincere relationships with them that show them the love of Christ.
Do you know a child you could bring to church? September 9 is the kick-off at Covenant for our fall programs. The Avenue for 5th & 6th grade is getting an overhaul complete with colorful Adirondack chairs, moon chairs, a couch, a fridge with drinks, snacks, and a cool small group curriculum - Grapple. The 1st - 4th grade will be checking our Johnny Rogers and KIDMO curriculum with A.I.M. (Agents in Motion).
The Preschoolers (2-5 years & K) will be starting a Bible Heroes series using Lil K' (think Blues Clues meets Jesus). Ms. Paula gets her very own group this fall with the toddlers. They are going to "study" their Beginner's Bible. I think Ms. Paula and Tristan will be doing a lot of playing and some story tellin'.
And last, but definitely not least Ms. Sherrye, Ashley & Ms. Liz will be taking care of the babies. Those not quite big enough for a small group environment will hang out in 107 on Sunday morning and they have a fridge in their room too, but I doubt the fifth & sixth graders will want to raid it :)
Don't forget - invite someone to join us!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Student Impact
Last year our youth group implemented Student Impact. I'm so excited because I now get to partner with our Youth Pastor to seek out teenagers that can be directed to help with our children's small groups on Sunday morning. They are nominated, sent a letter, interviewed, trained in Safe Sanctuary and then placed in serving positions for the school year. They are placed with adults that can model a lifelong commitment to serve. After serving for a few weeks I will follow up with them to see if they like where they are serving to make sure it is a good fit and I will follow up with the person they are serving with to make sure it is also a good fit for them.
Some of the first members of Student Impact were students already serving in the Children's Ministry (Andrew Longcoy, Nick Harris, Emma Longcoy and Alex Crook). Tristan Harris will be joining those ranks this fall. Nick & Tristan have both been serving with their mom (Stephanie Harris) in the 2/3's for the past year. It is great seeing a mom teach her children how to serve.
The challenge is balancing adults with teens. I don't ever want our adults to think the teens should be leading the children's ministry. Teens don't have life experience, teens don't have emotional stability all the time and teens don't usually have the moderating skills that adults have. What teens bring to the table is they are role models showing children that they can make it through their teen years and have Christ in their lives.
We are strategic in nominating students. This is not a club for students wishing to dodge morning worship. Students are only nominated if they regularly attend either worship or youth. They must demonstrate a sincere love for Christ and must have a positive attitude. Students must also have a serving attitude.
It amazes me how children look up to older student role models. My daughter is almost ten and she can pick out the summer camp counselors cars in the parking lot at church and cheers when she knows she is going to see them (thank you David, Lauren, Matt, Will, Emily, and Michelle for showing the love of Jesus to my little girl) and Ms. Amy (summer camp director) is the bomb in Brooklyn's eyes.
When you see a teen wearing the black Student Impact t-shirt thank them for serving. Thank them for making a difference in someones life. Who knows that someone might be your child!
Some of the first members of Student Impact were students already serving in the Children's Ministry (Andrew Longcoy, Nick Harris, Emma Longcoy and Alex Crook). Tristan Harris will be joining those ranks this fall. Nick & Tristan have both been serving with their mom (Stephanie Harris) in the 2/3's for the past year. It is great seeing a mom teach her children how to serve.
The challenge is balancing adults with teens. I don't ever want our adults to think the teens should be leading the children's ministry. Teens don't have life experience, teens don't have emotional stability all the time and teens don't usually have the moderating skills that adults have. What teens bring to the table is they are role models showing children that they can make it through their teen years and have Christ in their lives.
We are strategic in nominating students. This is not a club for students wishing to dodge morning worship. Students are only nominated if they regularly attend either worship or youth. They must demonstrate a sincere love for Christ and must have a positive attitude. Students must also have a serving attitude.
It amazes me how children look up to older student role models. My daughter is almost ten and she can pick out the summer camp counselors cars in the parking lot at church and cheers when she knows she is going to see them (thank you David, Lauren, Matt, Will, Emily, and Michelle for showing the love of Jesus to my little girl) and Ms. Amy (summer camp director) is the bomb in Brooklyn's eyes.
When you see a teen wearing the black Student Impact t-shirt thank them for serving. Thank them for making a difference in someones life. Who knows that someone might be your child!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
When Reality is Voiced, Change is inevitable
Last Friday night I made an announcement that we weren't going to be able to have KIDTime at 11:00 am because there were no volunteers (what happened is a long story, but God knew what He wanted). A nudge was felt by Marty & Danelle Cauley. They will now be leading the 11:00 am KIDTime for this school year. I'm really excited. Danelle is a drama professor at UNC-A and she is talented. I don't know Marty that well, but he seems to be organized and know what he is doing.
I am so excited at our fall lineup from leaders to curriculum. Hold on kids. It's going to be a fun school year.
I am so excited at our fall lineup from leaders to curriculum. Hold on kids. It's going to be a fun school year.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Hallowest
Save the date now for Hallowest October 31 from 6:30 - 8:30.
A western themed party to beat all parties planned for kids to give them a save place to hang out on Halloween. Live music, a jack-o-lantern carving contest, inflatibles, glow in the dark putt-putt, food, candy, and lots of laughs are planned to give the event something for everyone.
The night will end with Trough or Treat! So, mark your calendar and start working on that western themed costume.
A western themed party to beat all parties planned for kids to give them a save place to hang out on Halloween. Live music, a jack-o-lantern carving contest, inflatibles, glow in the dark putt-putt, food, candy, and lots of laughs are planned to give the event something for everyone.
The night will end with Trough or Treat! So, mark your calendar and start working on that western themed costume.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Visions, Dreams & Reality
I have a dream for the children's ministry at Covenant. That vision is very big. At times its really scary. I know it's a vision only God could pull off.
I dream of having enough volunteers to pull off the vision.
Then we are back to reality. Consistency is important. Friday night I'm making an announcement that will make some uncomfortable, but if we are going to grow into a dream that will lead to the vision we have to take this step. We will then take steps forward..to the future.
I dream of having enough volunteers to pull off the vision.
Then we are back to reality. Consistency is important. Friday night I'm making an announcement that will make some uncomfortable, but if we are going to grow into a dream that will lead to the vision we have to take this step. We will then take steps forward..to the future.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
School is Starting
I've never had a summer fly by so quickly. Some parents have even told me their children are in denial that school starts this week.
As our children are making new friends, being assigned new teachers, some experiencing new schools and experiencing different environments let us all remember to pray for them. Better yet, if you are a parent pray with your child. Ask God to let them make friends that don't know Jesus that they can invite to church. Ask God to let them be an example to teachers that haven't asked Jesus into their heart. And ask God to be with them as they are at school and keep them safe.
If you are sending your little one off to school for the first time this year I pray that your child has a great experience. And if they are headed to Middle School or High School that their combination works on their locker and they don't get lost trying to find the lunchroom (I got lost on my first day of high school).
As our children are making new friends, being assigned new teachers, some experiencing new schools and experiencing different environments let us all remember to pray for them. Better yet, if you are a parent pray with your child. Ask God to let them make friends that don't know Jesus that they can invite to church. Ask God to let them be an example to teachers that haven't asked Jesus into their heart. And ask God to be with them as they are at school and keep them safe.
If you are sending your little one off to school for the first time this year I pray that your child has a great experience. And if they are headed to Middle School or High School that their combination works on their locker and they don't get lost trying to find the lunchroom (I got lost on my first day of high school).
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Camp Tekoa
Recently I had the opportunity to serve for a week at Camp Tekoa as Camp Pastor. What a privilege it was to work with the counselors, PA's, camp nurse, etc. ~ most of which have served all summer long. Yes, most of them are getting paid, but they are true servants as they are mostly gathering treasure in Heaven as they tend to boo-boos, homesickness, anxiety, fear of the unknown, kids that have never been on an adventure before and some drama.
The team had been bonding since May and my arrival in July was so welcoming.
I kept thinking all week why am I here. I really don't like to camp, but I sure am getting a lot of reading done. On Wednesday night I went to the girl's bible study. It was awesome to see a group of 18-20(something) girls gather together and talk about life and how God's word relates to it. I told James he hired well. His PA's knew God's word and how to apply it.
I took some walks and didn't eat sugar the whole week until Friday night at dinner (ice cream). I felt so close to God that week. It was like sitting in His lap.
I don't really care for most hymns. I like some of the words, but feel they are mostly dirges and don't relate to life today. One night after dark a group was cleaning the dining hall and they started singing "It is well with my soul" Wow, what harmony and conviction. You could tell they meant it. Then they added a few other songs. It was such anointed worship by a group of "kids" yielding brooms and mops. How pleased the Heavenly Father surely was at that moment. In the old testament burned offerings cast off a pleasing aroma to God. I know that worship was being offered and God was enjoying the pleasant aroma.
Then on Friday came my divine appointment. First I had an appointment with a hornet that decided he wanted in my hair. We were playing a game during Pastor time and he stung me. I had to go the nurse. Later, I really didn't feel well and it hurt pretty badly. So during rest period (that might have been the best part of camp - rest every afternoon) I stayed in the "lobby" of Little Lodge. Someone sat on the couch with me and shared their life. It was why I was there. We both had similar stories of how one of our parents had passed away. We both healed some during the conversation. Tears were shed. And I came away with a sense that sometimes we are in situations for that one conversation.
God, let us go where you need us to go and let us always be willing to sit and just listen.
The team had been bonding since May and my arrival in July was so welcoming.
I kept thinking all week why am I here. I really don't like to camp, but I sure am getting a lot of reading done. On Wednesday night I went to the girl's bible study. It was awesome to see a group of 18-20(something) girls gather together and talk about life and how God's word relates to it. I told James he hired well. His PA's knew God's word and how to apply it.
I took some walks and didn't eat sugar the whole week until Friday night at dinner (ice cream). I felt so close to God that week. It was like sitting in His lap.
I don't really care for most hymns. I like some of the words, but feel they are mostly dirges and don't relate to life today. One night after dark a group was cleaning the dining hall and they started singing "It is well with my soul" Wow, what harmony and conviction. You could tell they meant it. Then they added a few other songs. It was such anointed worship by a group of "kids" yielding brooms and mops. How pleased the Heavenly Father surely was at that moment. In the old testament burned offerings cast off a pleasing aroma to God. I know that worship was being offered and God was enjoying the pleasant aroma.
Then on Friday came my divine appointment. First I had an appointment with a hornet that decided he wanted in my hair. We were playing a game during Pastor time and he stung me. I had to go the nurse. Later, I really didn't feel well and it hurt pretty badly. So during rest period (that might have been the best part of camp - rest every afternoon) I stayed in the "lobby" of Little Lodge. Someone sat on the couch with me and shared their life. It was why I was there. We both had similar stories of how one of our parents had passed away. We both healed some during the conversation. Tears were shed. And I came away with a sense that sometimes we are in situations for that one conversation.
God, let us go where you need us to go and let us always be willing to sit and just listen.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Cutting the Apron Strings #3
Summer camp went to the movies on Tuesday and I thought Brooklyn would enjoy me going with her. She sat with her friends, didn't save me a seat and I got to sit behind them by myself. I guess welcome to the world of preteens. Maybe she is cutting the apron strings for me!
Monday, July 9, 2007
Cutting the apron strings post #2
This week we went exploring in North Carolina. We visited some friends, we went to the NC Zoo in Asheboro, we went to Franklin Street in Chapel Hill (now that's some sacred ground) and we stopped by Lexington and ate BBQ.
Brooklyn and I spent five days together and we had a great time. When we were praying together on Friday night she said, "Thank you God for giving us time together to laugh and cut-up." That was so sweet.
When we got home on Saturday she called her dad to see if she could go to his house because she was missing him. Even though it was "my" weekend I let her go. But only after her room was cleaned and inspected by her step-father. Now, I wouldn't keep her from going to see her dad. But she has responsibilities. It took her 1.5 hours to clean her room (it was pretty bad and she didn't get her allowance last week because it was dirty). I could have helped her, but I read blogs all the time about people who their spouse is away and they can't even load the dishwasher. I want to help my child become self-sufficient.
How is God cutting the apron strings with you? He always wants us close and we can go to him anytime (David messed up bad and was still the apple of God's eye) but where is he stretching you? Where is God having you grow in Him?
I'm not finished with this subject. More tomorrow!
Brooklyn and I spent five days together and we had a great time. When we were praying together on Friday night she said, "Thank you God for giving us time together to laugh and cut-up." That was so sweet.
When we got home on Saturday she called her dad to see if she could go to his house because she was missing him. Even though it was "my" weekend I let her go. But only after her room was cleaned and inspected by her step-father. Now, I wouldn't keep her from going to see her dad. But she has responsibilities. It took her 1.5 hours to clean her room (it was pretty bad and she didn't get her allowance last week because it was dirty). I could have helped her, but I read blogs all the time about people who their spouse is away and they can't even load the dishwasher. I want to help my child become self-sufficient.
How is God cutting the apron strings with you? He always wants us close and we can go to him anytime (David messed up bad and was still the apple of God's eye) but where is he stretching you? Where is God having you grow in Him?
I'm not finished with this subject. More tomorrow!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Cutting the apron strings post #1
On July 22, I leave for camp. That's right, me. I haven't been since I was 12. I get to be the Camp Pastor at Camp Tekoa for a week. What a privilege it will be to serve those students.
The big deal about it is that Brooklyn also gets to go. She hasn't relished the idea of sleep away camp (I couldn't wait to get away from my parents). Even though her friend, Courtney, is also going, I will be there and she will be surrounded by people who care about her, she is still worried.
How do we create relationships with our children so they want to hang around us but give them the wings to want to have experiences that are totally safe in other environments where their parents aren't present?
I'm really glad I have this wonderful relationship with my daughter. I got to teach her how to shave her legs (I have a huge scar where I did my own when I was about her age), I get to cuddle on the couch with her and watch Survivor. Brooklyn's dad takes her 4 wheelin' and deer lookin' in the woods. We have a great relationship with our daughter, but I want her to have the other experiences. The experiences where she is safe, but has to make her own decisions and I'm not there to walk her through it.
Are we sheltering our children too much? We used to run all over the neighborhood after dark playing flashlight tag and not have to worry about someone grabbing us. We played ball in the street and walked to the corner store to pick up milk to drink for dinner. I walked home from school. We live in the same neighborhood, but I can't let Brooklyn out to play flashlight tag because we don't know all our neighbors, our street is too busy now for her to play ball in the street and there are no sidewalks to walk to school - or am I just sheltering her?
Camp will be a great way for her to be on her own (I'm intentionally going to stay away from her and let her have this adventure without me, but knowing I am close by). Hopefully next year she will want to go for a week without me - or do I really want her to?
Man, I need to cut some apron strings.
The big deal about it is that Brooklyn also gets to go. She hasn't relished the idea of sleep away camp (I couldn't wait to get away from my parents). Even though her friend, Courtney, is also going, I will be there and she will be surrounded by people who care about her, she is still worried.
How do we create relationships with our children so they want to hang around us but give them the wings to want to have experiences that are totally safe in other environments where their parents aren't present?
I'm really glad I have this wonderful relationship with my daughter. I got to teach her how to shave her legs (I have a huge scar where I did my own when I was about her age), I get to cuddle on the couch with her and watch Survivor. Brooklyn's dad takes her 4 wheelin' and deer lookin' in the woods. We have a great relationship with our daughter, but I want her to have the other experiences. The experiences where she is safe, but has to make her own decisions and I'm not there to walk her through it.
Are we sheltering our children too much? We used to run all over the neighborhood after dark playing flashlight tag and not have to worry about someone grabbing us. We played ball in the street and walked to the corner store to pick up milk to drink for dinner. I walked home from school. We live in the same neighborhood, but I can't let Brooklyn out to play flashlight tag because we don't know all our neighbors, our street is too busy now for her to play ball in the street and there are no sidewalks to walk to school - or am I just sheltering her?
Camp will be a great way for her to be on her own (I'm intentionally going to stay away from her and let her have this adventure without me, but knowing I am close by). Hopefully next year she will want to go for a week without me - or do I really want her to?
Man, I need to cut some apron strings.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Evan Almighty
I'll admit I did have many apprehensions about this movie. After all, Brooklyn's nursery was Noah's Ark and I had a whole house of Noah's Ark stuff. I had read the book, the story books, the Bible, the other book, the children's book. I know the story.
But the secular world took our story, a Biblical story and did what we sometimes do on Sunday morning. They took a theme and twisted it to get an environmental, feel-good point across. Many churches do that on Sunday morning. Sometimes our object is emotion, sometimes it is look at the world, but we take a secular theme and usually twist the logo and use it to get our point across.
There were so many themes in this movie. I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it, but it covered the environment, time spent with family, power, husband/wife issues, God, God's sense of humor, regret, world changing, kindness and humility all in one movie. It was very touching.
This movie is getting some poor reviews. I wonder if people don't like to think about their humanity or their issues? I pray that God continues to use this movie to make people think.
But the secular world took our story, a Biblical story and did what we sometimes do on Sunday morning. They took a theme and twisted it to get an environmental, feel-good point across. Many churches do that on Sunday morning. Sometimes our object is emotion, sometimes it is look at the world, but we take a secular theme and usually twist the logo and use it to get our point across.
There were so many themes in this movie. I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it, but it covered the environment, time spent with family, power, husband/wife issues, God, God's sense of humor, regret, world changing, kindness and humility all in one movie. It was very touching.
This movie is getting some poor reviews. I wonder if people don't like to think about their humanity or their issues? I pray that God continues to use this movie to make people think.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Family Game Night
What story are you telling your child? Is it a story of running from place to place "spending" time with each other? Is it a story of dad in the bedroom watching the game, mom in the living room watching HGTV and the child or children in their room "cave" watching Nickelodeon?
Or are you telling them the family story? The story of picking a TV show together and watching it together or better yet an activity or game played together.
For the past three weeks (I only have Brooklyn every other weekend so this has spanned six weeks) we have initiated family game night. Brooklyn actually starts planning it on Monday and tries to figure out what we can do so everyone will participate. The first two weeks we played Boggle so Mike would join us. Mike likes word games. This Sunday we are considering geo-caching. It's an activity that will get us out of the house. We will have to use our brains, we will need to learn our area and hopefully we will laugh together.
If your child is spending a lot of time as a recluse in their room is it because you are spending too much time on the computer or watching only what you want to watch on the TV. I fear in the future when our kids don't visit and we are wondering why, we might think to the relationship we want and realize we should have built it when they were younger.
And building relationship doesn't mean it costs money. It could be tossing a frisbee or ball in the yard. It could be sitting on the porch at dusk talking about your day sharing a glass of tea or lemonade. You could just take a walk around the park or push your child on the slide.
Spend time together it is an investment that will pay off in huge dividends when you are old!
Or are you telling them the family story? The story of picking a TV show together and watching it together or better yet an activity or game played together.
For the past three weeks (I only have Brooklyn every other weekend so this has spanned six weeks) we have initiated family game night. Brooklyn actually starts planning it on Monday and tries to figure out what we can do so everyone will participate. The first two weeks we played Boggle so Mike would join us. Mike likes word games. This Sunday we are considering geo-caching. It's an activity that will get us out of the house. We will have to use our brains, we will need to learn our area and hopefully we will laugh together.
If your child is spending a lot of time as a recluse in their room is it because you are spending too much time on the computer or watching only what you want to watch on the TV. I fear in the future when our kids don't visit and we are wondering why, we might think to the relationship we want and realize we should have built it when they were younger.
And building relationship doesn't mean it costs money. It could be tossing a frisbee or ball in the yard. It could be sitting on the porch at dusk talking about your day sharing a glass of tea or lemonade. You could just take a walk around the park or push your child on the slide.
Spend time together it is an investment that will pay off in huge dividends when you are old!
Fabulous Volunteer Friday
Thank you Stephanie, Paula, Allison, Amos & Sherrye. You guys could have taken the summer off but you chose to continue serving the families in our church and all the visitors that visit during the summer after moving to our area each Sunday morning in our preschool area. Thank you for loving our children, for telling them that God made them, God loves them, and Jesus wants to be their forever friend.
You guys are great and I appreciate you tremendously.
You guys are great and I appreciate you tremendously.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Worth Nothing!
I just found out according to Technorati that my blog is worth $0.00. http://bobfranquiz.typepad.com/bobfranquizcom/ blog is worth $49,114.98. How do you place value on blogs? Readership, comments, content, number of posts or just random? I'm not sure. Hopefully, I'll revalue next year (because I might need to insure my blog) and it will be at least worth $1 at that point!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
The UPRISING
SAVE
THE
DATE
Pizza, bon fire, silly string fight, games, prizes, bingo, movies, popcorn, smores, breakfast, and more fun
Family Worship Experience
I've had the pleasure of working with our Worship Planning Team this past month as we prepare for July. In July, our elementary children will be worshiping in the Worship Center with their family. The sermons have been scripted to be family friendly. We are providing a Family Worship Experience Home Edition guide for parents to use with their children that reinforces the sermon they heard. There are activities, family bible reading suggestions, games, ideas for prayer time, and a family mission project included.
Please use these ideas and your own to reinforce the message learned on Sunday!
Please use these ideas and your own to reinforce the message learned on Sunday!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Not without help
I couldn't get it all done without help. Caleb Bagamary came by today. His mom, Julie was going to help him wash the toys in the nursery and swiffer the nursery floor after she finished her other commitment. He was sitting in the hall waiting so I decided it would be fun to spend a little time with him and help him myself. We washed all the toys (in antibacterial palmolive) and then we dried them and put them back on the cart and he wheeled it down to the room.
He put the swiffer together, then he let me use it while he got another swiffer pad and he got on his hands and knees and did the other part of the floor. He wanted to be done before his mom was so he could show her he didn't need her help and that he could do a good job. He really did.
And Caleb is a sixth grader.
Thank you Caleb. I appreciated your help today. I can't wait to see you helping your mom in the nursery on Sunday morning.
He put the swiffer together, then he let me use it while he got another swiffer pad and he got on his hands and knees and did the other part of the floor. He wanted to be done before his mom was so he could show her he didn't need her help and that he could do a good job. He really did.
And Caleb is a sixth grader.
Thank you Caleb. I appreciated your help today. I can't wait to see you helping your mom in the nursery on Sunday morning.
Hallowest
Mark your calendars for our yearly celebration on October 31. This year things are changing and Jim Sanders has put a lot of thought into the theme and changing the event. Yes, we will have inflatables, yes, we will have food, yes, there will be glow-in-the-dark putt-putt and there will be a boat load (or should I say troughs full of) candy. All the dentists in Asheville will run around screaming!
We will need many volunteers that night to help with food, games, crowds, shuttles, etc. So go ahead and mark your calendars, tell your neighbors to mark their calendars, tell you family, and tell your co-workers. It will be a great event!
We will need many volunteers that night to help with food, games, crowds, shuttles, etc. So go ahead and mark your calendars, tell your neighbors to mark their calendars, tell you family, and tell your co-workers. It will be a great event!
Wow, it's Friday already
This week has flown by. I'm amazed at what all is happening in the world of our children. Right now there are about 20 (many left early today for vacation) kids downstairs making a craft for their dads. I watched them during song time before their "FLIPT" lesson. What an honor it is to do summer camp for these children.
Last week watching them walk through the doors and seeing how they had grown up so much over the past year. Watching the seasoned campers welcome the new campers. Watching the struggles of the new children let go of their moms and go to camp. It is such a blessing to serve and have fun at the same time. And while Amy runs camp, it puts a smile on my face to run downstairs and see those children having a good time at "church"!
Amy, you do a tremendous job with camp. I don't know what I would do with out you.
Devin & Jordan - thanks for your commitment this summer. I pray you will find your place in the kingdom of God and will be stretched this summer as you lead your groups and teach these children about God.
Last week watching them walk through the doors and seeing how they had grown up so much over the past year. Watching the seasoned campers welcome the new campers. Watching the struggles of the new children let go of their moms and go to camp. It is such a blessing to serve and have fun at the same time. And while Amy runs camp, it puts a smile on my face to run downstairs and see those children having a good time at "church"!
Amy, you do a tremendous job with camp. I don't know what I would do with out you.
Devin & Jordan - thanks for your commitment this summer. I pray you will find your place in the kingdom of God and will be stretched this summer as you lead your groups and teach these children about God.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Drama Danelle
The past two weeks all the Elementary kids have been combined in room 109 on Sunday morning for Drama Danelle (inside game). What fun it has been to see them learn how to be actors and control their bodies, their voices, their imagination and to cooperate. They have learned each other's names, they have worked together, they have done human juggling and they have laughed.
It is great to see the children share their ideas and they have many, many ideas.
This week we did an abstract recreation of the story of Jesus calming the storm. How amazing to watch the groups work together to find their place in the story.
We are lucky to have Danelle leading with Tierney, Leanna and Ashley helping the children through this process. They are phenomenal to watch together.
It is great to see the children share their ideas and they have many, many ideas.
This week we did an abstract recreation of the story of Jesus calming the storm. How amazing to watch the groups work together to find their place in the story.
We are lucky to have Danelle leading with Tierney, Leanna and Ashley helping the children through this process. They are phenomenal to watch together.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Stuffitis
Today I went yard perusing. There might be a more common name for it, but that is what I call it. My purchases equalled $5 and I probably spent $6 in gas.
I was searching today for pictures or wall decorations for our house. We've lived here 15 months and I have some decoration; however, I find it to be so expensive I thought yard sales might be an option. We have 9 foot ceilings so curtains have to be longer (meaning you can't buy them at Wal-mart) and pictures have to be larger to cover enough wall to not look dwarfed.
I actually purchased an organized for my scrapbooking addiction ($1) and a movie ($2) and game ($2) for church.
I had a yard sale about a month ago. It was amazing to me at how many professionals there are out there. One couple told me they have three storage buildings full of stuff. He was trying to talk her into buying a purse, but she told him she has about 10. He said occasionally he takes a load over to the flea market and sales it. He buys to resale but ends up keeping most of it.
So why are we fascinated with stuff? I remember being about six and standing up to sing in church with my one and only pair of patten leather church shoes and thinking about how Krista Crowe has a different pair of shoes for each week and when I'm older I'll be just like her (and I do have a boat load of shoes). Not realizing my foot was still growing and going to church three times a week didn't necessarily mean I needed more than one pair of church shoes.
I think this scripture http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%206:19;19:21;%20Luke%2012:33 says it well because as a nation we are truly storing up "treasure" on earth and then trying to sale it for a profit to buy more stuff.
I'm as guilty as anyone of doing this. I think a mindset of living more simply with less stuff would be beneficial to so many. Maybe our challenge should be to store up treasure in heaven and store up memories on earth?
I was searching today for pictures or wall decorations for our house. We've lived here 15 months and I have some decoration; however, I find it to be so expensive I thought yard sales might be an option. We have 9 foot ceilings so curtains have to be longer (meaning you can't buy them at Wal-mart) and pictures have to be larger to cover enough wall to not look dwarfed.
I actually purchased an organized for my scrapbooking addiction ($1) and a movie ($2) and game ($2) for church.
I had a yard sale about a month ago. It was amazing to me at how many professionals there are out there. One couple told me they have three storage buildings full of stuff. He was trying to talk her into buying a purse, but she told him she has about 10. He said occasionally he takes a load over to the flea market and sales it. He buys to resale but ends up keeping most of it.
So why are we fascinated with stuff? I remember being about six and standing up to sing in church with my one and only pair of patten leather church shoes and thinking about how Krista Crowe has a different pair of shoes for each week and when I'm older I'll be just like her (and I do have a boat load of shoes). Not realizing my foot was still growing and going to church three times a week didn't necessarily mean I needed more than one pair of church shoes.
I think this scripture http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%206:19;19:21;%20Luke%2012:33 says it well because as a nation we are truly storing up "treasure" on earth and then trying to sale it for a profit to buy more stuff.
I'm as guilty as anyone of doing this. I think a mindset of living more simply with less stuff would be beneficial to so many. Maybe our challenge should be to store up treasure in heaven and store up memories on earth?
Friday, June 8, 2007
Would I sacrifice my child
Last night I was on the phone with a friend (I'll keep her anonymous) and she was telling me all about how she enjoys homeschooling her child. The conversation progressed to how the government tries to "control" homeschooling, etc.
She was commenting on how the children at church behave much worse than her homeschooling group. One of the children in the youth group had been busted for cocaine use (thank God they are in the youth group - maybe they will rally around them and help them). My question is how many haven't gotten busted? I mentioned that I had experienced the opposite with homeschooling children that seem to not be able to function in groups.
Then I posed the question of if we continue to take all the christian children out of public schools and put them into either christian schools or home school them how do we expect our public school system to get better? She chimed right in and said I will not sacrifice my child because of other parents lack of discipline with their children (that is a paraphrase, but I think I am close).
I am so glad that God chose to sacrifice His child for us. I don't know that by sending my child to public school I am sacrificing her. I think I am giving her skills that she will need to excel in a work world where most people weren't home schooled.
And I attended "Christian" school. The boys had a way to climb into the ceiling from their bathroom and peep into the girls bathrooms. They also had a system in place to wipe out the Lance man while he was filling our snack machine. And most of my friends that went to school there weren't so pure and innocent. Just because a school says Christian doesn't mean the children inside always portray Christ.
But back to the point of what if God had decided not to sacrifice Jesus for us? That is what He did. Would we be here? Would we still be sacrificing animals for atonement?
I am so thankful for the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you God for sacrificing your son. Thank you for my daughter. Help me know how to educate her so she can know how to behave around others that aren't of the same mindset.
She was commenting on how the children at church behave much worse than her homeschooling group. One of the children in the youth group had been busted for cocaine use (thank God they are in the youth group - maybe they will rally around them and help them). My question is how many haven't gotten busted? I mentioned that I had experienced the opposite with homeschooling children that seem to not be able to function in groups.
Then I posed the question of if we continue to take all the christian children out of public schools and put them into either christian schools or home school them how do we expect our public school system to get better? She chimed right in and said I will not sacrifice my child because of other parents lack of discipline with their children (that is a paraphrase, but I think I am close).
I am so glad that God chose to sacrifice His child for us. I don't know that by sending my child to public school I am sacrificing her. I think I am giving her skills that she will need to excel in a work world where most people weren't home schooled.
And I attended "Christian" school. The boys had a way to climb into the ceiling from their bathroom and peep into the girls bathrooms. They also had a system in place to wipe out the Lance man while he was filling our snack machine. And most of my friends that went to school there weren't so pure and innocent. Just because a school says Christian doesn't mean the children inside always portray Christ.
But back to the point of what if God had decided not to sacrifice Jesus for us? That is what He did. Would we be here? Would we still be sacrificing animals for atonement?
I am so thankful for the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you God for sacrificing your son. Thank you for my daughter. Help me know how to educate her so she can know how to behave around others that aren't of the same mindset.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Cultural Relevance
Debates about using culture in church abound. Debates about being relevant to our society abound.
Today, I attended my daughters Awards Ceremony for fourth grade. The fourth & fifth graders had their ceremony together and the fifth graders will leave for middle school next year. I was astounded at the different approaches taken by the music teacher and the art teacher.
The art teacher, Mr. Pisano actually used a lesson from college to teach his students this year. They love art. He taught them how to make books, they even bound them with awls. They experimented with making whistles and if they didn't work - he called them paperweights. Out of the box teaching. Use your brain. He even said they did a drumming exercise.
The music teacher (to remain unnamed) had three songs for the students. The first one was a patriotic song with hand motions. It was pretty, but you could tell the fifth graders hated the hand motions. But then, the intermission song really got my attention. It was about manners. There was an attempt to add a coolness factor by rapping in the middle of the song. I asked my daughter about it and she said it was corny. They had to learn it, but felt like first graders singing it. Then the last song was a "rap" song that the fifth graders sung about staying in school. Again very corny and not in keeping with culture at all.
The talent show at my daughters school was all popular culture music. No one attempted to rap or make a song written for first graders into a song for fifth graders.
I remember chorus in school. We learned Penny Lane. That song wasn't popular at the time but had a nice feel to it and didn't make us feel like babies.
So, on Sunday mornings are we still attempting to reach 4th and 5th graders using a model that works for first graders or even younger and is hated by fifth and sixth graders? I question do we continue and let them lose interest or do we change our approach - not compromising the message but changing it's delivery? Something to think about.
Today, I attended my daughters Awards Ceremony for fourth grade. The fourth & fifth graders had their ceremony together and the fifth graders will leave for middle school next year. I was astounded at the different approaches taken by the music teacher and the art teacher.
The art teacher, Mr. Pisano actually used a lesson from college to teach his students this year. They love art. He taught them how to make books, they even bound them with awls. They experimented with making whistles and if they didn't work - he called them paperweights. Out of the box teaching. Use your brain. He even said they did a drumming exercise.
The music teacher (to remain unnamed) had three songs for the students. The first one was a patriotic song with hand motions. It was pretty, but you could tell the fifth graders hated the hand motions. But then, the intermission song really got my attention. It was about manners. There was an attempt to add a coolness factor by rapping in the middle of the song. I asked my daughter about it and she said it was corny. They had to learn it, but felt like first graders singing it. Then the last song was a "rap" song that the fifth graders sung about staying in school. Again very corny and not in keeping with culture at all.
The talent show at my daughters school was all popular culture music. No one attempted to rap or make a song written for first graders into a song for fifth graders.
I remember chorus in school. We learned Penny Lane. That song wasn't popular at the time but had a nice feel to it and didn't make us feel like babies.
So, on Sunday mornings are we still attempting to reach 4th and 5th graders using a model that works for first graders or even younger and is hated by fifth and sixth graders? I question do we continue and let them lose interest or do we change our approach - not compromising the message but changing it's delivery? Something to think about.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Nursery update
Wow, Jan Kwiatkowski did a great job making the window treatments, breast feeding screening, and the paintings for the nursery. The room should provide an environment that welcomes volunteers and families who will want to leave their children in their care. It should open back up next week after I complete the flooring.
This morning I put down the rubber flooring (babies have a tendency to fall for some reason). I ran into uneven corners in the room and the gate has to be raised to get the rubber squares under the gate. So why do simple jobs have to be so hard? I have to go back to Sam's to get more flooring (I should have measured first).
It made me think of life. King David, the apple of God's eye (Psalm 17), was annointed King of Israel, but the current King, King Saul had to die for him to take the throne. He literally ran for years and waited for this to take place. He faced a corner when he sinned with Bathsheba, tried to cover it up but her husband had integrity, then David had her husband killed, not so simple.
And what about Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, put into prison for doing the right thing and was then eventually restored to power.
So we are never promised a simple life. We are promised eternal life.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=63&chapter=1&verse=1&end_verse=3&version=31&context=context
This morning I put down the rubber flooring (babies have a tendency to fall for some reason). I ran into uneven corners in the room and the gate has to be raised to get the rubber squares under the gate. So why do simple jobs have to be so hard? I have to go back to Sam's to get more flooring (I should have measured first).
It made me think of life. King David, the apple of God's eye (Psalm 17), was annointed King of Israel, but the current King, King Saul had to die for him to take the throne. He literally ran for years and waited for this to take place. He faced a corner when he sinned with Bathsheba, tried to cover it up but her husband had integrity, then David had her husband killed, not so simple.
And what about Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, put into prison for doing the right thing and was then eventually restored to power.
So we are never promised a simple life. We are promised eternal life.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=63&chapter=1&verse=1&end_verse=3&version=31&context=context
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Scripture for Today
Kim McCarthy gave me a wonderful devotion book for Mother's Day.
Today I read the following statement that really spoke to me. God, help me to ask with a faith that expects to proclaim, "Look what God did for me." It was based on the scripture: 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Do we ask big enough? Do we ask every time? Are we expecting to be thankful for answered prayer? Are we anxious - or do we expect?
I hope I can answer that I did ask big enough and that I did ask every time (instead of just worrying about it) and I hope that since I can't send God a thank you note in the mail that I can instead share the hope He give me with my friends by being thankful and telling them about answered prayer.
Today I'm going to expect my heart and mind to be guarded and have peace in all situations. I may not get my prayer answered in the way I would like but I'm going to expect that God will guard my heart and mind.
Today I read the following statement that really spoke to me. God, help me to ask with a faith that expects to proclaim, "Look what God did for me." It was based on the scripture: 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Do we ask big enough? Do we ask every time? Are we expecting to be thankful for answered prayer? Are we anxious - or do we expect?
I hope I can answer that I did ask big enough and that I did ask every time (instead of just worrying about it) and I hope that since I can't send God a thank you note in the mail that I can instead share the hope He give me with my friends by being thankful and telling them about answered prayer.
Today I'm going to expect my heart and mind to be guarded and have peace in all situations. I may not get my prayer answered in the way I would like but I'm going to expect that God will guard my heart and mind.
Luau Pictures
I know that I promised pictures of the luau, but to be honest I was so busy talking I only got a few and my digital camera batteries were dead so they are from a disposable camera and they aren't that great.
Next year the theme will change, but I will be hosting another party to thank all the volunteers that serve our children and their families.
Next year the theme will change, but I will be hosting another party to thank all the volunteers that serve our children and their families.
Hard to believe
Can you believe that it is May 30 and school will be out next week?
Our summer camp starts next Wednesday. If you aren't registered: http://www.covenant-community.org/ and follow the camp links. Amy Hinch, our Summer Camp Director and her interns along with a few volunteers, who are already out of school for the summer, are working hard to get camp ready. How exciting it will be to see the children from the past camps with the new children this year. Last year there were five students that received Christ during camp. I'm believing that this year more lives will be eternally changed.
This year the theme is FLIPT. I can't wait to see our lives FLIPT by Christ. I say our lives because I feel I am on a continual Journey and the children we serve are always challenging me to change.
Our summer camp starts next Wednesday. If you aren't registered: http://www.covenant-community.org/ and follow the camp links. Amy Hinch, our Summer Camp Director and her interns along with a few volunteers, who are already out of school for the summer, are working hard to get camp ready. How exciting it will be to see the children from the past camps with the new children this year. Last year there were five students that received Christ during camp. I'm believing that this year more lives will be eternally changed.
This year the theme is FLIPT. I can't wait to see our lives FLIPT by Christ. I say our lives because I feel I am on a continual Journey and the children we serve are always challenging me to change.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Luau
Wow, it's hard to believe it's already May. I have been the Director of Children's Ministry at Covenant for one year and one day. How time flies.
This Friday night all the Children's Ministry Team will gather at my house for a luau to celebrate the end of the school year, the accomplishments of the past year and hear some visioning for the upcoming year. I'll post some pictures online next week (if I can figure out how to do that!).
Thanks to all the full-time Children's Ministry Team that has faithfully served during the past year. You all deserve a big round of applause.
This Friday night all the Children's Ministry Team will gather at my house for a luau to celebrate the end of the school year, the accomplishments of the past year and hear some visioning for the upcoming year. I'll post some pictures online next week (if I can figure out how to do that!).
Thanks to all the full-time Children's Ministry Team that has faithfully served during the past year. You all deserve a big round of applause.
My first post
Welcome to the world of KIDtime and thanks for viewing my blog. Beginning next week I will be making frequent posts regarding what is happening in KIDtime, updates on events, and occasionally I will post about books I have read, music that inspires me, blogs that made me think and those family moments that must be shared.
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