Read this quote posted on another blog today:
“Between the Christianity of this land and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference - so wide, that to receive the one as good, pure, and holy is of necessity to reject the other as bad, corrupt, and wicked…I love the pure, peaceable, and impartial Christianity of Christ; I therefore hate the corrupt, slaveholding, women-whipping, cradle-plundering, partial, and hypocritical Christianity of this land. Indeed, I can see no reason, but the most deceitful one, for calling the religion of this land Christianity.”
- Frederick Douglass, 1845
Are there ways in which the same thing could be said today? Are there ways that Christianity has become "Americanized" and diluted from the Christianity of Christ?
What do you think?
Matt
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
catching up
wow...it's been a crazy month. you can usually tell when I'm running fast because the posts don't happen all too often.
I've been doing some weekend teaching, which is a lot of fun...extra work, but a great time. It never ceases to amaze me how God uses these opportunities to help people know Him better. I love seeing God work.
I have also been doing a lot of extra meetings - some one-on-one and other home meetings. We're into the final year of a 3-year campaign to raise funds for building expansion on my campus. Those meetings have been great - it's one thing to get excited about visions; it's a whole other thing to get excited with other people who are excited.
Heidi is holding things down at home while I run pretty hard. I can't thank her enough for the amazing strength and grace that she exhibits under pressure.
We had a little lunchtime date today. I love when I get a little of that extra time with her.
That's a short update...
Peace,
Matt
I've been doing some weekend teaching, which is a lot of fun...extra work, but a great time. It never ceases to amaze me how God uses these opportunities to help people know Him better. I love seeing God work.
I have also been doing a lot of extra meetings - some one-on-one and other home meetings. We're into the final year of a 3-year campaign to raise funds for building expansion on my campus. Those meetings have been great - it's one thing to get excited about visions; it's a whole other thing to get excited with other people who are excited.
Heidi is holding things down at home while I run pretty hard. I can't thank her enough for the amazing strength and grace that she exhibits under pressure.
We had a little lunchtime date today. I love when I get a little of that extra time with her.
That's a short update...
Peace,
Matt
Thursday, March 27, 2008
over the door
Seth Godin (a prolific blogger on remarkability in business) writes that there is a sign over the door from the kitchen in his favorite hotel that reminds wait staff:
"If you're not proud of it, don't serve it." [Note: the word "proud" in this blog does not mean arrogance...it's used to communite something that I feel great about being a part of.]
In the hustle of life and ministry, it can sometimes be easy to settle into a standard that is less than excellent. Get the project done and out the door and then move onto the next one.
So what is a good "standard of excellence"? It's Matt's version of excellent when I can say, "I'm proud of that."
Am I proud of the message I'm writing to give this weekend?
Am I proud of the elements of the service?
Am I proud of the time I gave to the person who stopped in because they needed to speak to a pastor?
Am I proud of the way I interacted with my staff today?
What about other arenas...
Am I proud of the time I spent with my kids?
Am I proud of the time I spent along with God?
Am I proud of the way I manage my life/time/money?
"Proud of" is not the same as perfect. There are rythms to life that impact my ability to do any of the above. But in light of reality, how do I feel about what I "serve" to the people around me and to God?
What about you?
"If you're not proud of it, don't serve it." [Note: the word "proud" in this blog does not mean arrogance...it's used to communite something that I feel great about being a part of.]
In the hustle of life and ministry, it can sometimes be easy to settle into a standard that is less than excellent. Get the project done and out the door and then move onto the next one.
So what is a good "standard of excellence"? It's Matt's version of excellent when I can say, "I'm proud of that."
Am I proud of the message I'm writing to give this weekend?
Am I proud of the elements of the service?
Am I proud of the time I gave to the person who stopped in because they needed to speak to a pastor?
Am I proud of the way I interacted with my staff today?
What about other arenas...
Am I proud of the time I spent with my kids?
Am I proud of the time I spent along with God?
Am I proud of the way I manage my life/time/money?
"Proud of" is not the same as perfect. There are rythms to life that impact my ability to do any of the above. But in light of reality, how do I feel about what I "serve" to the people around me and to God?
What about you?
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
unanswered prayers
This article from The Onion explains a lot:
Report: 32% Of Prayers Deflected Off Passing Satellites
March 19, 2008 | Issue 44•12
HOUSTON—According to an official NASA report released Saturday, nearly 32 percent of all prayers exiting Earth are deflected off satellites orbiting the planet—ultimately preventing the discharged requests for divine intervention from ever making it to the Gates of Heaven. "After impact with the satellite, these diverted prayers typically plummet back into the atmosphere, where they either burn up or eventually land, unanswered, in a body of water," the report read in part. "Of the remaining prayers, research confirms 64 percent fail to make it past the stratosphere because they aren't prayed hard enough, 94 percent of those with enough momentum are swallowed by a supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy, and 43 percent are eaten by birds." The report concluded that, of the 170 billion prayers issued last month, one made it to God, whose reply was intercepted by a hurricane and incorrectly delivered to a Nigerian man who reportedly did not know what to do with his brand-new Bowflex machine.
***************
I'm sure there are other explainations of unanswered prayers, but some days, doesn't it feel like this one fits?
Peace,
M@
Report: 32% Of Prayers Deflected Off Passing Satellites
March 19, 2008 | Issue 44•12
HOUSTON—According to an official NASA report released Saturday, nearly 32 percent of all prayers exiting Earth are deflected off satellites orbiting the planet—ultimately preventing the discharged requests for divine intervention from ever making it to the Gates of Heaven. "After impact with the satellite, these diverted prayers typically plummet back into the atmosphere, where they either burn up or eventually land, unanswered, in a body of water," the report read in part. "Of the remaining prayers, research confirms 64 percent fail to make it past the stratosphere because they aren't prayed hard enough, 94 percent of those with enough momentum are swallowed by a supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy, and 43 percent are eaten by birds." The report concluded that, of the 170 billion prayers issued last month, one made it to God, whose reply was intercepted by a hurricane and incorrectly delivered to a Nigerian man who reportedly did not know what to do with his brand-new Bowflex machine.
***************
I'm sure there are other explainations of unanswered prayers, but some days, doesn't it feel like this one fits?
Peace,
M@
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Son Rise
The windows in my office face east. I'm here really early for our first-of-the-day Easter service. I typically don't like early mornings. But the view from my window and the anticipation of a great morning are stirring me.
The sun is beginning to show itself behind the horizon of clouds. It's the tell-tale sign that the night is done and the morning is just about here.
Moment by moment it gets brighter.
Some people see only the laws of physics at work in the rotation of the earth. Today, I'm reminded of God's goodness in creating a daily reminder of a great spirital reality - the night will end and the Son will come.
Yup...it's a great day for a Son rise...
Happy Easter!
M@
The sun is beginning to show itself behind the horizon of clouds. It's the tell-tale sign that the night is done and the morning is just about here.
Moment by moment it gets brighter.
Some people see only the laws of physics at work in the rotation of the earth. Today, I'm reminded of God's goodness in creating a daily reminder of a great spirital reality - the night will end and the Son will come.
Yup...it's a great day for a Son rise...
Happy Easter!
M@
367
367...that's how many days I've been on staff at The Chapel (leap year and yesterday was the one year anniversary). I began this journey, together with my family, with an understanding of God's leadership, but no real idea what it would look like. I guess that's the essence of faith, isn't it?
After resigning from Northwest Christian Community, I didn't know what was next. The resignation was a step of faith, in itself. Heidi and I were prepared and even hoping that the next stop would be back in Buffalo, NY - not that we loved Buffalo, but we love many people there.
Even as we wondered about Buffalo, we both had a sense in our spirits that our work in IL was not done. Again, we didn't know what that would look like, but were working on trust.
This past year has been an amazing adventure. Very quickly, I connected with so many new friends - people from my campus as well as other staff. I've experienced daunting challenges. I've seen God navigate our way through those challenges. I've had hard as well as inspiring conversations with people. From the very outset, I experienced a bonding with my new church family - I was a bit startled by the intensity of that relationship.
Today, as I sit in my office, it feels like I've only been here a few days. Yet, at the same time, it feels like it's been years. I've experienced God's hand of faithfulness gently guiding through this past year. And I anticipate with excitement the same for the year to come.
Peace on the Journey,
Matt
After resigning from Northwest Christian Community, I didn't know what was next. The resignation was a step of faith, in itself. Heidi and I were prepared and even hoping that the next stop would be back in Buffalo, NY - not that we loved Buffalo, but we love many people there.
Even as we wondered about Buffalo, we both had a sense in our spirits that our work in IL was not done. Again, we didn't know what that would look like, but were working on trust.
This past year has been an amazing adventure. Very quickly, I connected with so many new friends - people from my campus as well as other staff. I've experienced daunting challenges. I've seen God navigate our way through those challenges. I've had hard as well as inspiring conversations with people. From the very outset, I experienced a bonding with my new church family - I was a bit startled by the intensity of that relationship.
Today, as I sit in my office, it feels like I've only been here a few days. Yet, at the same time, it feels like it's been years. I've experienced God's hand of faithfulness gently guiding through this past year. And I anticipate with excitement the same for the year to come.
Peace on the Journey,
Matt
Saturday, March 22, 2008
fire in the fireplace
Last night was a cold Friday night. Chicagoland won the snow lottery and we ended up with about a foot in our neck of the woods. After a busy day, preparing for and executing 3 Good Friday services at my campus, Heidi and I found ourselves in front of a roaring fire as the day came to a close.
During each service, I invited anyone who wanted to participate, to write down their sin(s) on a piece of paper and then nail them to large beams of wood on either side of the auditorium. After everyone had a chance to do so, the beams were assembled to make a cross, which was carried to the front and raised in silence. It was powerful... huge cross standing tall and bold at the front of the room, holding the written confessions of hundreds of people.
As the Campus Pastor, it was my honor to take home each of those slips of paper and dispose of them forever. Without reading any of them (but knowing each slip contained the source of guilt and shame for a person) I put handful after handful of the "sins" into the fireplace.
It was a hot fire. It was a large fire. It was a grace-filled fire. My fire only got rid of the paper. Christ on the cross got rid of the sin.
All in all...a great Friday to remember.
Peace,
Matt
During each service, I invited anyone who wanted to participate, to write down their sin(s) on a piece of paper and then nail them to large beams of wood on either side of the auditorium. After everyone had a chance to do so, the beams were assembled to make a cross, which was carried to the front and raised in silence. It was powerful... huge cross standing tall and bold at the front of the room, holding the written confessions of hundreds of people.
As the Campus Pastor, it was my honor to take home each of those slips of paper and dispose of them forever. Without reading any of them (but knowing each slip contained the source of guilt and shame for a person) I put handful after handful of the "sins" into the fireplace.
It was a hot fire. It was a large fire. It was a grace-filled fire. My fire only got rid of the paper. Christ on the cross got rid of the sin.
All in all...a great Friday to remember.
Peace,
Matt
Thursday, March 20, 2008
bracketology 2008
I really don't like basketball. I hope my kids don't pick it up as one of their sports. But if they do, I'll cheer.
But I'm a sucker for competition. So in March, I complete my brackets and trash-talk as if I've been watching all teams all year.
I got my bracket done just in time today. My final for are...
Louisville
Memphis
UCLA
Georgetown
I have a couple sleepers. And this year, I didn't have MSU going all the way - it pained me to drop them to Memphis in the Sweet 16. Sorry Coach Izzo...now watch, they win the whole dang thing!!
Share your final four if you want...
M@
But I'm a sucker for competition. So in March, I complete my brackets and trash-talk as if I've been watching all teams all year.
I got my bracket done just in time today. My final for are...
Louisville
Memphis
UCLA
Georgetown
I have a couple sleepers. And this year, I didn't have MSU going all the way - it pained me to drop them to Memphis in the Sweet 16. Sorry Coach Izzo...now watch, they win the whole dang thing!!
Share your final four if you want...
M@
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
NY, NY
"My name is David Paterson, and I'm the Governor of New York!" heard moments after taking the oath of office to replace Elliot Spitzer, who resigned because he hired hookers.
Moments later Governor Paterson told reporters that he had multiple extra-marital affairs while he and his wife were having a rough go at marriage. Apparently, she did, too.
What?!?! He didn't bring it up earlier in his political career because it didn't seem relevant. But now he doesn't want it to interfere with his governorship. Nice...
Is is too much for us to expect our leaders to be men and women of integrity? Is is possible for people to "climb the ladder" while maintaining the fabric of their character?
You know what? I actually think it's possible. I think it's possible to be a great leader without being a jerk or hypocrite. I think it's possible to lead movements while loving one's family well and cultivating healthy relationships with friends who aren't impressed with us.
It's possible. It's hard. But it's possible.
I'm grateful to be directly led by people who strive for this kind of leadership. I'm thankful that they will push me to be this kind of leader.
By God's grace...it's possible...
M@
Moments later Governor Paterson told reporters that he had multiple extra-marital affairs while he and his wife were having a rough go at marriage. Apparently, she did, too.
What?!?! He didn't bring it up earlier in his political career because it didn't seem relevant. But now he doesn't want it to interfere with his governorship. Nice...
Is is too much for us to expect our leaders to be men and women of integrity? Is is possible for people to "climb the ladder" while maintaining the fabric of their character?
You know what? I actually think it's possible. I think it's possible to be a great leader without being a jerk or hypocrite. I think it's possible to lead movements while loving one's family well and cultivating healthy relationships with friends who aren't impressed with us.
It's possible. It's hard. But it's possible.
I'm grateful to be directly led by people who strive for this kind of leadership. I'm thankful that they will push me to be this kind of leader.
By God's grace...it's possible...
M@
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Buffalo
Last week, I spent a few days in Buffalo, NY. It was great to spend some time with old friends and be with people who continue to mean a great deal to me.
This trip was unique from past trips...I had some new friends along with me. Scott and Jamie were with me. Along with having several great meetings planned, they were also eager for me to show them around my old world.
We drove around the city, where I had invested in several great ministry ventures. I drove them past our old house - a great little Civil War era cottage on two acres of land. We walked through the campus of Hamburg Wesleyan, getting a chance to meet so many people who are embedded deep in my heart.
It was my world...not theirs. I cannot overemphasize the gift it was to me that they cared so much about seeing a bit of my past. They listened as I told the stories. They waited patiently as I hugged and talked with a few friends. They met so many of the staff who are dear to me.
What a gift these men gave me. When I came on board, they talked about the desire to be a "band of brothers" in serving Christ. That hope has become a reality into which I have been invited. I am honored to lock arms with these men and follow Christ in faithful obedience.
M@
This trip was unique from past trips...I had some new friends along with me. Scott and Jamie were with me. Along with having several great meetings planned, they were also eager for me to show them around my old world.
We drove around the city, where I had invested in several great ministry ventures. I drove them past our old house - a great little Civil War era cottage on two acres of land. We walked through the campus of Hamburg Wesleyan, getting a chance to meet so many people who are embedded deep in my heart.
It was my world...not theirs. I cannot overemphasize the gift it was to me that they cared so much about seeing a bit of my past. They listened as I told the stories. They waited patiently as I hugged and talked with a few friends. They met so many of the staff who are dear to me.
What a gift these men gave me. When I came on board, they talked about the desire to be a "band of brothers" in serving Christ. That hope has become a reality into which I have been invited. I am honored to lock arms with these men and follow Christ in faithful obedience.
M@
Sue
Sue is my sister. And she hates being called "Sue". But...I'm her brother...her little brother...so I call her Sue. And she lets me!
She just recently had a big birthday. No, not 50...but not too far off from there...;-)
It's been amazing for me to see her grow as a woman, Christ-follower, mother, wife, and leader in the years I've known her.
Growing up, things were a bit more contentious, I'd say. I'm more than 5 years younger than she is...so you can imagine what a pain it was for her to have a brother like me! And she's as strong-willed as I am. So there were definitely some interesting times.
As she has neared the ripe old age of __0, she's applied her wisdom in so many ways. I see her invest in her boys with love and strength. I see her as a helper and encourager for her husband. And I see her invest in so many people.
I love you, Suzy...happy birthday!
M@
She just recently had a big birthday. No, not 50...but not too far off from there...;-)
It's been amazing for me to see her grow as a woman, Christ-follower, mother, wife, and leader in the years I've known her.
Growing up, things were a bit more contentious, I'd say. I'm more than 5 years younger than she is...so you can imagine what a pain it was for her to have a brother like me! And she's as strong-willed as I am. So there were definitely some interesting times.
As she has neared the ripe old age of __0, she's applied her wisdom in so many ways. I see her invest in her boys with love and strength. I see her as a helper and encourager for her husband. And I see her invest in so many people.
I love you, Suzy...happy birthday!
M@
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Sarah
Happy birthday to my sister, Sarah, today! She's older than I am...it's important to know that up front. Here are some of my thoughts about my older (did I mention that already) sister...
- Enough with the degrees already! With almost 40 years of education under your belt...stop already;-) Actually, I'm quite proud of her 37 Masters Degrees (maybe a slight exaggeration)...she works hard to grow and develop.
- I had her as a student teacher when I was in high school (did I mention that she's older than I). She was a good teacher way back then...I'm sure she's even better now.
- She's one of the people who taught me much about grace. As the "baby" of the family, I was occasionally inclined toward wanting my own way. Sarah was always so gracious to me.
Happy birthday, Sarah...
M@
- Enough with the degrees already! With almost 40 years of education under your belt...stop already;-) Actually, I'm quite proud of her 37 Masters Degrees (maybe a slight exaggeration)...she works hard to grow and develop.
- I had her as a student teacher when I was in high school (did I mention that she's older than I). She was a good teacher way back then...I'm sure she's even better now.
- She's one of the people who taught me much about grace. As the "baby" of the family, I was occasionally inclined toward wanting my own way. Sarah was always so gracious to me.
Happy birthday, Sarah...
M@
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Grandpa Al
I was the goofy kid down the street. I'd stop over at Al and Bette's home unannounced. And never once did they act put out. He didn't need my company - his life was full, his kids were adults, and a 7 year old kid...well, he'd done that already.
He'd let me pal around with him in the garden or down in the woodshop. As he went about his business, he made sure I was learning the trade. An early morning found us putting the boat in the water for an adventure on the high seas of Lake Michigan - the fish were safe that day.
When I kept falling down while learning to cross country ski, I'd get so frustrated. Knowing that misery loves company, Al would take a dive now and then...just so I wouldn't be alone lying in the snow.
My grandparents lived in other states. And after my father's death, his parents didn't stay in contact. Grandparents' day at school would have been a huge bummer...except that Al would be there waiting. He take an interest in my schoolwork and eat some lunch with me. He didn't have to...he just did.
He served his country in World War II. He served his community as a volunteer. He servced God through his church. He served his family as a husband, father, and provider. And this humble man served a seven year old kid from down the street.
I learned a little bit about gardening, woodwork, boating, and skiing from Al. But more than any of that, his gentle presence taught me about God's love. The gifts he gave me I carry in my soul even today.
Al lost his battle with cancer last week. But this "loss" created the opportunity for him to walk the victor's walk. Today, he see clearly what he saw as only a dim reflection in his life - God's love for him. By God's grace, you ran well, Grandpa Al. Godspeed...
Matt...the kid down the road...
He'd let me pal around with him in the garden or down in the woodshop. As he went about his business, he made sure I was learning the trade. An early morning found us putting the boat in the water for an adventure on the high seas of Lake Michigan - the fish were safe that day.
When I kept falling down while learning to cross country ski, I'd get so frustrated. Knowing that misery loves company, Al would take a dive now and then...just so I wouldn't be alone lying in the snow.
My grandparents lived in other states. And after my father's death, his parents didn't stay in contact. Grandparents' day at school would have been a huge bummer...except that Al would be there waiting. He take an interest in my schoolwork and eat some lunch with me. He didn't have to...he just did.
He served his country in World War II. He served his community as a volunteer. He servced God through his church. He served his family as a husband, father, and provider. And this humble man served a seven year old kid from down the street.
I learned a little bit about gardening, woodwork, boating, and skiing from Al. But more than any of that, his gentle presence taught me about God's love. The gifts he gave me I carry in my soul even today.
Al lost his battle with cancer last week. But this "loss" created the opportunity for him to walk the victor's walk. Today, he see clearly what he saw as only a dim reflection in his life - God's love for him. By God's grace, you ran well, Grandpa Al. Godspeed...
Matt...the kid down the road...
Monday, February 04, 2008
stunning...
The Pats' loss to the Giants last night was stunning...
- Eli wins the big one in half the career of his older brother.
- Eli spends most of the year trying to keep his job...now he's the Superbowl MVP.
- Bill Belichick was outchoached and seemd to channel the spirit of Schottenheimer.
- Brady's offensive line was...offensive.
- Eli out-Brady-ed Tom Brady. Brady is famous for getting the final drive into the end zone for the win.
- the Pats busted tail all year long to loose only one game...THE game...
Yup...stunning...
And now I know what it feels like to be a Buckeye fan...
Congrats to the Giants fans.
- Eli wins the big one in half the career of his older brother.
- Eli spends most of the year trying to keep his job...now he's the Superbowl MVP.
- Bill Belichick was outchoached and seemd to channel the spirit of Schottenheimer.
- Brady's offensive line was...offensive.
- Eli out-Brady-ed Tom Brady. Brady is famous for getting the final drive into the end zone for the win.
- the Pats busted tail all year long to loose only one game...THE game...
Yup...stunning...
And now I know what it feels like to be a Buckeye fan...
Congrats to the Giants fans.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
quick hits
Not much of an update, but I just couldn't not do something...
- not too inspired by many candidates this political season. I normally like the presidential race. At this point, it's a B-Movie kind of year...
- Go Pats!! I'm hoping for a Pats blowout this weekend...what a great way to end a football season!
- Kids are all healthy...today...
- good things going on at church. I love being a part of this ministry team! Every day I am thankful for God brining me to The Chapel.
See...not much of an update...but it's something.
Have a great weekend!
M@
- not too inspired by many candidates this political season. I normally like the presidential race. At this point, it's a B-Movie kind of year...
- Go Pats!! I'm hoping for a Pats blowout this weekend...what a great way to end a football season!
- Kids are all healthy...today...
- good things going on at church. I love being a part of this ministry team! Every day I am thankful for God brining me to The Chapel.
See...not much of an update...but it's something.
Have a great weekend!
M@
Monday, January 21, 2008
a recond beaten
With their victory yesterday, the New England Patriots hold the record for the most wins in an undefeated single season; 18-0.
The Super Bowl should live up to the hype...the good team will stand strong with the great team. But in the end, my prediction is that the great team will stand with the trophy and a place in history as the best team in NFL history.
I was hoping for the Packers last night. For starters, I think that Eli Manning doesn't deserve to be given the same title (quarterback) as Brett Favre. I love how people talk about him having a few good games...maybe Rex Grossman could get signed with the Giants as Eli's backup and learn a few things about how to string together a few good games.
I'm not a very good pundit, but those are my thoughts on a Monday.
Back to Family Day!
M@
The Super Bowl should live up to the hype...the good team will stand strong with the great team. But in the end, my prediction is that the great team will stand with the trophy and a place in history as the best team in NFL history.
I was hoping for the Packers last night. For starters, I think that Eli Manning doesn't deserve to be given the same title (quarterback) as Brett Favre. I love how people talk about him having a few good games...maybe Rex Grossman could get signed with the Giants as Eli's backup and learn a few things about how to string together a few good games.
I'm not a very good pundit, but those are my thoughts on a Monday.
Back to Family Day!
M@
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
clear test
My friend from Buffalo, Rick, had his 3-month test for bladder cancer today. For the second time the test was clear!! So many people here in Chicago have been praying for him...thank you all! It's been such an awesome answer to prayer.
M@
M@
Monday, January 14, 2008
a record tied
I've read several online sports writers today, recapping the past weekend. I was shocked that not one article mentioned that, with their victory on Saturday night, the Pats tied the standing record for most wins in one season. The 1972 Miami Dophins won all of their regular season games and the Super Bowl to finish the season 17-0. Since that time, the regular season has been extended by two games. So with this past weekend's defeat of the Jags, our boys in New England are standing at 17-0. With this Sunday's win over San Diego, they will own, alone, the single season's best record. And with the Super Bowl victory...well...you know...the records just keep coming this season.
That's all. Just a little tid-bit to taunt my wish-against-the-Pats-at-all-costs friends;-)
Happy Monday!
M@
That's all. Just a little tid-bit to taunt my wish-against-the-Pats-at-all-costs friends;-)
Happy Monday!
M@
Friday, January 11, 2008
Go, Pats!
I put that in the title box to catch the attention of a few friends. There are surprisingly few Patriots fans in Chicago. That's ok...Heidi and I are happy to root on the boys from Beantown!
It's been a crazy holiday season. We actually did a good job managing our schedules, but we both still felt a bit drained. After 6 Christmas services at my Chapel campus (which were AWESOME!!) we celebrated a nice Christmas day as F5. Then on Wednesday, we drove to Grand Haven to spend a day with my family. It was a good visit until the middle of the night when Lib woke up very sick with a respiratory thing. We were debating either driving home or to the ER at midnight...not fun. But Heidi, as the super mommy/nurse that she is, got Lib settled in and on the mend.
Heading home the next day, Levi started to have trouble breathing. Fire up the nebulizer! By Saturday, we were in the ER with him, diagnosed with Pneumonia. More meds and breathing treatments.
Friday night, the Bay City contingency arrived in town. Then on Saturday, the Pittsburgh crew showed up. I did the message in the weekend services on my campus. Thus...a crazy weekend.
But after New Years, things settled in a bit. And now it's back to routine.
In the flurry of life, it's easy to just react. Part of the journey of faith, for me, is to learn to react to not only the circumstances around me, but the voice and leadeship of God. In the busy pace, it's easy to lose that voice. But quiet moments, driving with the radio off or in the moments before the monkeys invade a still morning moment, I can recallibrate myself and listen again.
Happy New Year!
M@
It's been a crazy holiday season. We actually did a good job managing our schedules, but we both still felt a bit drained. After 6 Christmas services at my Chapel campus (which were AWESOME!!) we celebrated a nice Christmas day as F5. Then on Wednesday, we drove to Grand Haven to spend a day with my family. It was a good visit until the middle of the night when Lib woke up very sick with a respiratory thing. We were debating either driving home or to the ER at midnight...not fun. But Heidi, as the super mommy/nurse that she is, got Lib settled in and on the mend.
Heading home the next day, Levi started to have trouble breathing. Fire up the nebulizer! By Saturday, we were in the ER with him, diagnosed with Pneumonia. More meds and breathing treatments.
Friday night, the Bay City contingency arrived in town. Then on Saturday, the Pittsburgh crew showed up. I did the message in the weekend services on my campus. Thus...a crazy weekend.
But after New Years, things settled in a bit. And now it's back to routine.
In the flurry of life, it's easy to just react. Part of the journey of faith, for me, is to learn to react to not only the circumstances around me, but the voice and leadeship of God. In the busy pace, it's easy to lose that voice. But quiet moments, driving with the radio off or in the moments before the monkeys invade a still morning moment, I can recallibrate myself and listen again.
Happy New Year!
M@
Thursday, January 03, 2008
2007 Recap...
I love these moments to look back over the past year and see all that has been happening in the lives of the Furrs. God has been so faithful in a miriade of ways...I could not be more grateful for the following and even more...
- Last December/January brought much prayer, fasting, and seeking godly counsel, culminating in my decision to resign from Northwest Christian Community. I had moved my family from "home" in Buffalo in order to pursue God's leadership to step into a Lead Pastor role. That exercise went much differently than I had intended (shocking, I know, that life goes a little different than planned...). I announced my decision to the congregation, and began a journey to see what would happen next.
- God opened the door to a substative conversation with one of the senior pastors of The Chapel. As he laid out his vision for the role the church can play in the lives of people and a region, I was captured. So many of the things he talked about resonated with the deepest places of my heart. And through a very thorough and rigorous process, I joined the staff of The Chapel in Libertyville.
- I am now a Campus Pastor. No, this has nothing to do with college ministry (I had a few friends ask me how my college ministry at Liberty University was going...nope). The Chapel is one church with several local expressions, called campuses. I lead one of those campus in Libertyville. It's a gift to be a part of such an amazing staff team and community of people. The people from the church have welcomed my family and me with gracious warmth and friendship and partnership. I lead a staff that gives themselves fully to the mission of Christ. I have been welcomed into friendships of depth and healing.
- Heidi continues to grow in grace and wisdom, wearing many different hats - wife, mother, woman, Christ-follower, friend. I watch her invest in people with a heart filled with love, grace, and wisdom. It's amazing - not because I'm surprised, but because it's always amazing to be so close to the tender work of God. I see Him in her in profound ways.
- Izak is growing up. I can't believe that I met him just over 5 years ago. He enriches my life in big ways. He teaches me to speak more gently and walk more slowly. He teaches me to laugh at the silliness of life. He teaches me the peace of a good snuggle in the morning. My son is a treasure to me.
- Liberty is a young girl of confidence and passion. She is not so fast, taking her time to get where we need to go. But she gets there with a passion and a joy reserved for those who actually appreciate the journey. She sings loudly. She dances wildly. And she has an expression at the ready for any circumstance. She's totally my daughter - we both roll out of bed only when we have to and aren't completely convinced the day will be kind. But we both also warm up to the idea of walking the earth before noon...usually. She is my "baby-girl" and I love her freedom. And I suspect she's going to be pretty stoked to find out that her daddy works in a town called Liberty-ville!
- Levi is coming into his own. He loves his mommy - and does alright with Daddy when she's not around. He loves his cars and the movie, Cars. Levi and Mommy collect all the figures from the movie and make sure they are hidden in special places because you don't want to lose such a treasure. He is a boy among boys - loves dirt and car noises and big trucks. He loves to run at you from across the room. And he can be heard shouting from his crib, "Tickle me!"
My kids redeem me. Without them in my life, I would work too much, not laugh enough, and hold on to a lot more selfishness. Oh, the selfishness is still there, but in order to hold the hand of a toddler, you have to let go of a great deal of it. God uses my children to shape my heart.
When we were married, Heidi made a commitment to go where I go and make her home in that place. She has made good on that without a complaint or even a wince. I could not be the man I am without her by my side. My partner. My beloved. My friend.
As I look back over this year, it's been a very hard year. It's been a year of redemption. It's been a year of stretching and challenge. But knowing that God is walking with me, shaping my character and guidling the way, gives me the courage to advance, even if only one step at a time. This Furr Journey is truly a journey of obedience and trust. And every step of trust that I take, God has proved his faithfulness over and again. I'm not sure that it makes the next step of faith any easier, but it does increase one's confidence that it will be an adventure worth taking.
So here I am, on the edge of 2008. It will, no doubt, be another year of growth in many ways. It will be a year of more milestones for the kids. It will be anouther year in which I experience the amazing blessing of an incredible wife/friend. In all that, it will be anouther year to experience the gentle, guiding hand of my Master, who challenges, pushes, and leads me into places that feed my soul as only He can.
May you know the same in 2008.
Peace on the journey,
M@
- Last December/January brought much prayer, fasting, and seeking godly counsel, culminating in my decision to resign from Northwest Christian Community. I had moved my family from "home" in Buffalo in order to pursue God's leadership to step into a Lead Pastor role. That exercise went much differently than I had intended (shocking, I know, that life goes a little different than planned...). I announced my decision to the congregation, and began a journey to see what would happen next.
- God opened the door to a substative conversation with one of the senior pastors of The Chapel. As he laid out his vision for the role the church can play in the lives of people and a region, I was captured. So many of the things he talked about resonated with the deepest places of my heart. And through a very thorough and rigorous process, I joined the staff of The Chapel in Libertyville.
- I am now a Campus Pastor. No, this has nothing to do with college ministry (I had a few friends ask me how my college ministry at Liberty University was going...nope). The Chapel is one church with several local expressions, called campuses. I lead one of those campus in Libertyville. It's a gift to be a part of such an amazing staff team and community of people. The people from the church have welcomed my family and me with gracious warmth and friendship and partnership. I lead a staff that gives themselves fully to the mission of Christ. I have been welcomed into friendships of depth and healing.
- Heidi continues to grow in grace and wisdom, wearing many different hats - wife, mother, woman, Christ-follower, friend. I watch her invest in people with a heart filled with love, grace, and wisdom. It's amazing - not because I'm surprised, but because it's always amazing to be so close to the tender work of God. I see Him in her in profound ways.
- Izak is growing up. I can't believe that I met him just over 5 years ago. He enriches my life in big ways. He teaches me to speak more gently and walk more slowly. He teaches me to laugh at the silliness of life. He teaches me the peace of a good snuggle in the morning. My son is a treasure to me.
- Liberty is a young girl of confidence and passion. She is not so fast, taking her time to get where we need to go. But she gets there with a passion and a joy reserved for those who actually appreciate the journey. She sings loudly. She dances wildly. And she has an expression at the ready for any circumstance. She's totally my daughter - we both roll out of bed only when we have to and aren't completely convinced the day will be kind. But we both also warm up to the idea of walking the earth before noon...usually. She is my "baby-girl" and I love her freedom. And I suspect she's going to be pretty stoked to find out that her daddy works in a town called Liberty-ville!
- Levi is coming into his own. He loves his mommy - and does alright with Daddy when she's not around. He loves his cars and the movie, Cars. Levi and Mommy collect all the figures from the movie and make sure they are hidden in special places because you don't want to lose such a treasure. He is a boy among boys - loves dirt and car noises and big trucks. He loves to run at you from across the room. And he can be heard shouting from his crib, "Tickle me!"
My kids redeem me. Without them in my life, I would work too much, not laugh enough, and hold on to a lot more selfishness. Oh, the selfishness is still there, but in order to hold the hand of a toddler, you have to let go of a great deal of it. God uses my children to shape my heart.
When we were married, Heidi made a commitment to go where I go and make her home in that place. She has made good on that without a complaint or even a wince. I could not be the man I am without her by my side. My partner. My beloved. My friend.
As I look back over this year, it's been a very hard year. It's been a year of redemption. It's been a year of stretching and challenge. But knowing that God is walking with me, shaping my character and guidling the way, gives me the courage to advance, even if only one step at a time. This Furr Journey is truly a journey of obedience and trust. And every step of trust that I take, God has proved his faithfulness over and again. I'm not sure that it makes the next step of faith any easier, but it does increase one's confidence that it will be an adventure worth taking.
So here I am, on the edge of 2008. It will, no doubt, be another year of growth in many ways. It will be a year of more milestones for the kids. It will be anouther year in which I experience the amazing blessing of an incredible wife/friend. In all that, it will be anouther year to experience the gentle, guiding hand of my Master, who challenges, pushes, and leads me into places that feed my soul as only He can.
May you know the same in 2008.
Peace on the journey,
M@
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