No Ceiling

When was the last time God spoke to you about what He wanted to do and you were scared to death by its magnitude? Henry Blackaby posed this question in his devotional thought for today (www.blackaby.org). I am not sure how warm and fuzzy the question feels. Sure fits in the Christmas story, according to the Bible.

The ceiling caught my attention early this morning. I was in the middle of doing one of those rock hard abs exercises. The Lord questioned my belief in His ability. If the room (my office) was the size of the universe, and all that could be done went only to the ceiling, than I would be even more terrified. God, who can cause a virgin to have a baby, who can feed multitudes with a small boy's lunch, who breathes live into every human thing, has no ceiling. Faith 101. Right? Yeah, but a friendly reminder never hurt a thing.

What Scares You to Death Could Save You!

Think about it a minute. Review the Christmas story from the Bible. Mary was terrified when an angel appeared to her. So were the shepherds. Another Bible example: the disciples saw Jesus walking on the water in the midst of a near death experience. What was their natural response? They thought He was a ghost. Terror (more spooky than I am about to die fear) gripped them. What scared them, ultimately saved them.

Have you ever experienced the same? What scares you to death could save you. What is terrifying you right now? What if your worse fear repositions you to a new place of safety, security and growth? Is that possible? How might that change your perspective?

Campfire Weenies II

Do you believe all things work out in the end? Be careful how your answer. It depends on what you mean by "all" and "things" and "work out." So many false assumptions can drive your "belief." If you are describing a higher belief, a theological statement, and your view of God as sovereign of the universe, then all things will work out according to His plan.

Often I tie big ideas about God with my little ideas about "all" and "things" and "work out." Whose pleasure is most important? My pleasure or His? Now this gets a little more spooky for your average Campfire Weenie (me). My view of God is that He is kind and caring. He is however, Father (bigger and smarter), and King (His word is flawless and final).

The small scripts in my life and my desire for them all to be resolved perfectly doesn't fit my view of God. Some things will go unresolved. Some stories will not have the "right ending."

I have never felt more compelled to bomb you with a clithe' here. This Christmas, no matter how much your day to day scripts are lacking . . . or how much terror they may cause . . .

Don't throw out the baby with the bathwater!

Campfire Weenies - Christmas 2009

This past weekend I went to East Tennessee with Abby. We enjoyed (I think) a new book. I may review it later, but let me warn you. Intellectually it may be over your head.

The Curse of the Campfire Weenies is kind of a Twilight Zone for kids. We did not like it at first, because we didn't get it. Now it has become a favorite. I am not sure if it comes under the category of enjoying unscripted endings or the roller coaster affect (love of terror).

Christmas is not a great time of year for everybody. For some (more than you know) it is a grim reminder of terrifying experiences. For others we think of people who made Christmas special, who no longer live with us. Christmas becomes the season of unscripted endings. We remember stories without happy endings.

Don't assume someone beside you does not need a little extra love as we swing into Christmas. People around you are looking for hope. They long for a new script. Wow, fits right in to the first Christmas. What do you think?

From Tennessee - Fulmer's Final Mistake

I don't know a lot about David Clawson. His resume is impressive. I know he seemed successful at Richmond and Fordham. I was caught up in all the hype of a hot, new West Coast offense six months ago. Evidently so was Phil. I know he would say he made a lot of mistakes as head coach at University of Tennessee. No question, David Clawson as offensive coordinator was his last.

David is young, he will land on his feet and learn from it. But no matter, the story behind the story, is that life got too complicated for the offense.

When you look at reality, last season was a Houdini act by Phil. How such an average team could end up in the SEC championship game and a few plays from the BCS amazes me. Others must have noticed. The VOLS were on their way to one of the most impressive recruiting classes in years under Fulmer. But things got complicated on offense. Way too complicated.

I am sad. An old familiar face will be gone from the Big Orange. I am looking for something to learn here for all of us. Simple is in. Simple Church by Rainer and Geiger is great for the church world. Real Simple magazine is fun and important for those of us looking for tips around the house. In a complicated era, simple has never matter more.

Life gets foggy at times. For Phil, for me, and for David Clawson, simple might be better. Simple might have saved the jobs of Clawson and Phil.

How do you need to simplify in your life? Have you overcomplicated faith? family? work? Vince Lombardi allegedly started each summer football camp with, "Gentlemen, this is a football." That, I understand. I am with you Vince. I am going to dumb it down a bit.

From Tennessee - The Over Supply

To me, holiday themes can be so shallow. We go 364 discontent, moaning, groaning, and ignoring the good stuff of life days. Suddenly we wake up today and flip the switch. We spend a day counting our blessings and watching the Detroit Lions play football. By midnight tonight we will likely relapse.

Same thing with Christmas. We will get a tear in our eye as we sing Silent Night, Holy Night and gaze at the baby on the stage at the church program. Sorry if I seem a bit jaded. I guess the stretch mark I long for here is to gain some God momentum from these important times.

Could the holidays reverse a period of ungratefulness that might last? How? Could my lack of amazement over who Jesus is be brought back to the reality of His greatness this Christmas? How? Take over from here -- our "hows" will be different.

The food on my table today will likely bring all the things that much of the world does not have. The food will taste good, there will be plenty, and in most cases will look good. Just like the entire year of care from God my life, He will do more than supply my needs. He will over supply.

From Tennesssee - Perspective

My father-in-law, Charlie and mother-in-law, Faye are interesting people. Charlie is a retired biology professor and a farmer. Faye is a retired financial assistant. Talk about your lifelong learners, the world still seems to amaze them. They read, they travel, they socialize . . .

So, when I visit there I always find reading material from places I normally do not fish for reading material. Kind of out of my league, if you know what I mean. I read football websites for my personal growth.

However, I found something at their house that caught my eye. Unfortunately, as with me, they are University of Tennessee football fans.

Fired and outgoing Head Football Coach Phil Fulmer's comment was reported by today's edition of the Bristol Herald Courier:

. . . bitterness or resentment is like taking poison and expecting someone else to die . . . I'm not going to live that way. I just chose not to.

I don't know how spiritual Coach Fulmer is, but his perspective is of value either way, don't you think?

Not Quite Solved

How is the prayer of a dying man different? WWJP -- What would Jesus pray? The Gospel of John, chapter 17, in the Bible -- gives a lot to consider. Also, his last hours in the garden and on the cross is place to research. In fact, under the broad heading, all the prayers of Jesus were the prayers of a dying man.

Sir Isaac Newton provided a helpful hammer:

I can take my telescope and look millions and millions of miles into space, but I can lay it aside and go into my room, shut the door, get down on my knees in earnest prayer, and see more of heaven and get closer to God that I can assisted by all the telescopes and material agencies on earth.

Thanks, I needed that. How about you? How might that insight make a difference for you today?

Underpraying - 30 DaysTo Live

Urgency -- Panic -- Desparation -- Prayer . . . I wonder why the human cycle is that way. If I were going to die in thirty days I would pray with a different soul connection to heaven.

In 1987 I went to El Salvador with one of my all time favorite missionaries. Leo Humphrey, who is in heaven as we speak, was a mentor and friend. Another man on that trip, Dean, had been given the news from his doctor. Dean had only a few months to live. He led our team in prayer once. Leo came beside me right after the prayer was finished and said, I love to hear a dying man pray.

Does a dying man pray differently than one who "thinks" he is not? Why? How would I pray differently if I really believed I was soon to die? How about you? I am not completely sure what that looks like. Let's practice. Pray today like you only have 30 days to live. Give me feedback. I will do the same.

30 Days To Live - The Last Sermon

Randy Pausch, Carnegie Mellon Professor knew he was going to die when he presented his last lecture at the university Sept. 18, 2007. Really. No special bracelet or sermon series inspired him. Doctors and medical tests had informed Randy.

This Sunday at The Ridge I have been challenged to present The Last Sermon. Not exactly the same as what Randy faced, although Dr. Raham would agree that I face a similar fate. The statistics, Steve Brown said, are one out of one. I am not sure where The Last Sermon is going yet, although I have thought about it for over six weeks now.

One of my favorite quotes on death comes from a preacher, D.L. Moody:

Someday you will read in the papers that D.L. Moody of Northfield is dead. Don't believe a word of it. At that moment I shall be more alive than I am now. I shall have gone higher, that is all - out of this old clay tenement into a house that is immortal, a body that sin cannot touch, that sin cannot taint, a body fashioned into His glorious body. I was born in the flesh in 1837. I was born of the Spirit in 1856. That which is born of flesh may die; that which is born of the Spirit will live forever.

Wow, talk about finishing strong -- and with confidence. Is it possible? How? Will you?

30 Days - The Afterlife

Feel good experiences might be on the list if we had a short time left. I seriously doubt the "feel goods" would be on the top. The most important question I posed in the series at WRC was, "If I am going to die in 30 days, where will I be on day 31?" If you believe in the Afterlife, where are you going to spend it? How do you know? Can you know? How about your friends and family?

Ernest from The Ridge said it well:

" . . . everyone talks about taking trips or going some where they have not been 'that seems selfish.' If I only had 30 days to live the top of my list would be to make sure my family and friends knew JESUS and when they died they were going to heaven so I could see them. The only other thing I would do is be with my family and let them know how much I love them and that I would see them soon."

Regardless of what you believe about life after death, there is no way you can argue. The question is important for someone who has 30 days to live. What did Jesus say? What does the Bible teach? So, where do the conversations need to start? Let's talk about it.

30 Days To Live - Yuk!

I resisted one part of 30 Days to Live. I guess part of the reason is a man thang. Part if it is a desire for the deep. I have resisted the warm, squeezy, feely part.

I remember seeing a wall poster in the 70's. You may have seen these if you were alive back then, or old enough to read. The poster was a part of the Love is . . . series. The poster said, Love is . . . A Green Field on a Warm Day. Yuk! At that time for me, love was cruising. With my best girl. Marsha. Down Broad Street. In my light blue Volkswagen Super Beetle. On Friday night!

The big picture is important if we have 30 days to live. But there must be a greater appreciation for the moment. Why? Because the now is one thing you have left. Appreciating the smaller experiences, that we often take for granted takes a front seat.

I like the way Lee, from Willow Ridge, said it to me in an email:

We obviously are going to continue to spend wisely and save accordingly, but with 30 days left to live, finances take a back seat. It certainly makes you want to enjoy one more time: sunsets, swimming, sitting in a deer stand, running over the Cooper River Bridge with your wife, having a cup of coffee with your father on his back porch. It also makes you think about the things you NEED to do: have THAT conversation with your extremely lost brother, put down on paper LIFE type things for your son, feed everyone you can that cant feed themselves, tell your wife EXACTLY what she means to you.

If you only have 30 days to live, love really may become a green field on a warm day. Whatever, in the moment, that you take for granted. Gifts from God that we are too important or busy to enjoy. Have one today!

Thirty Days to Live - Thud!

We have been thinking at The Ridge . . . along with a lot of other churches right now . . . What would do if we had only 30 days to live? If you really engage the question -- three meals a day at Ryan's buffet does not make a lot of sense. I mean, is that really important to you?

I am getting great feedback. I played the old, Ask the Audience card last week. Wow! I could not be more impressed with the insights, etc.

Mark and Danielle Proctor already turned the tables. I have been pondering on the deep implications of me (you know, all about ME, me), facing the next 30 days, as if they would be my last.

Mark and Danielle's young son, Hunter had a serious hunting accident a couple of years ago. Their family spend days not sure if he would live. They said the experience changed their perspective. Now they think, what if people around us had only 30 days to live. How would I treat them differently?

Here is what Danielle said: Something that keeps sounding in my mind is thinking that others only have 30 days to live! I think the thought of knowing only has a certain amount of time has gotten me more motivated in trying to share the love of Jesus. Even if it only means taking time in the check out line at the store and acknowledging the person serving you at the moment and letting them know you care. I know an easy concept but this keeps playing in my mind that it is not only me that might have 30 days to live, but maybe my neighbor or the cashier may only have 30 days to live. This thought has made a big impact on my daily life.

In my business, we call that a hammer. Something that makes a loud thud when you hear it. A loud thud in your heart . . . Thanks Mark and Danielle and others, who are engaging this issue.

Performance Enhancers

I had good times and bad times last Saturday in the Governor's Cup. I had great advice from my lifelong friend Sid (link coming). I read books and websites.

One tip that helped me was to greet people who were along the route. I particularly focused on the kids. How fun! They were surprised. More serious runners did not waste their energy treating a 13.1 mile uphill race like a political campaign. I did. Guess what? It helped me. I greeted people. I waved at everybody (picture coming).

I am proud of my accomplishments. You probably could tell. But this is all work for me. I was never a track or cross country person back in the day. There were reasons: I am not that good at it and uh, it takes discipline. So, I look for advice, tips, honest ways to cheat the system, advantages, legal performance enhancers. You know what I mean.

Well, waving back at people, greeting them, being nice to them . . . was an incredible performance enhancer. My mind focused on others instead of the enormous hills and overwhelming distance. My focus was upon those who were so focused on me. Kind of a win -- win! When they cheered, I waved and said, "Thank you!" It felt great. Great tip. I am going to try it more today.

I Give Spoonfuls To God

. . . He returns shovelsful to me (Quote from Bill Bright). So it was this past weekend. I reached my three goals in the Governor's Cup Half-Marathon: 1) Don't die 2) Don't quit 3) 10 minute miles. I spent a few hours volunteering at the Passport to Italy, the first annual Italian Festival in Columbia. I was able to hang out with family. We started 30 Days To Live at Willow Ridge.

The defining moment was during the half-Marathon. I really had a God experience. The mental part of a long run is more than half the battle. God began to show me the names and faces of my encouragers.

I began to cry just a bit. No kidding. Everyone has their challenges in life. Me included. But I have more encouragers than most people. The streets along my journey has crowds of people: Tennessee, Louisiana, Ohio, South Carolina and other places. They cheer loudly.

I am not sure what I have done to deserve all this. I only give spoonfuls to God. He returns shovelsful of blessing and encouragement. But I am determined to be better at encouraging my encouragers. How about you?

One Month To Live

Next Sunday we start a 30 Day focus at The Ridge. We are copy cats. But the One Month to Live series will help us answer the question: What is really important? Give me some of your thoughts. I may quote you in a sermon. Or . . . if it is a really great thought, I may take credit :) -- I hope you will understand.

Lights Out for Good II

Anthony Campolo said once that Americans have lost their passion for life. He suggested we don't even sin with great enthusiasm anymore.

God leveraged the life of the great Apostle, Paul. As misplaced as his vision, passion, and view of God used to be, God leveraged it to change the world!

We should have a question that defines who we are, that is answered - Not until they turn the lights out for good! Get out a yellow pad, draw a blank line on line one. On line two, write Not until they turn the lights out for good. Craft your defining question.

Tell me what your question is. I'll bet it won't be, Will I ever stop partying?

Am I Ever Going to Stop Partying?

Not until they turn the lights out for good. I was eating my weekly Blimpee watching SportsCenter a few weeks ago. My Blimpee on Colonial Drive in Columbia believes in keeping 2 year old sports mags for their bored customers.

John Daly (pro golfer who owns the above vision) is a poster child for celebrity sports underachievers. It would make perfect sense for a guy like me to act brilliant and sermonize about his deeply flawed vision.

John Daly is a life-changing experience away from leveraging his life to make a difference. His passion, although misplaced, shows great potential. Think of a person in your life that has clear vision and great passion. Maybe their focus, philosophy, and view of God is flawed, but have you ever seen that as potential? What if?

What a great weekend at The Rock in Conway and hanging out with my bride! In a positive way, they have created their own culture. Kevin and Polly Childs are movement makers.

You young guys will think this is funny. I was you once. I heard an old guy say, in reference to his marriage, it just keeps getting better. I thought -- no way! Just what you are thinking right now. Most of you will owe me an apology in 15-20 years.

You Are Looking At Yourself!

Abigail caught me two weeks ago, in Wal-Mart parking lot. I caught a brief reflection of myself as we walked by a parked car. I had, as they call it in the romance novels, a lingering glance at someone. A romantic glance? Did you throw up, just a little bit, in the back of your throat. She said, Daddy you are looking at yourself.

A glance is a glance. A glance will never make a difference. A glance will never tell the truth. At a glance I saw what I wanted to see. The high parts. The mountain peaks. I was embarrassed when Abby caught me. I need to either take a longer look, or stop looking. Bottom line. You too.

Beating Yourself: A Higher Bar Than You Think

Yesterday I talked about the front runners. I have noticed how safe it is to live in the past. Organizations do it, churches do it, people do it. Another safe option is to make excuses for our present. I am particularly gifted at that.

What would it take for you to beat you? The vast majority of people, organizations, etc., that I come in contact with used to be/do better. The real Old Timer's disease if you will. For you to beat you is the highest possible bar you could ever set.

Let's see, who said this? Was it a distance runner, a NASCAR driver, an NFL coach?

But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead . . .

And the rest of the quote that will give it away . . .

I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus (The Bible, Philippians 3:13,14 - Spoken by the Apostle Paul ).

Paul was called the World's Most Successful Christian. Talk about your high bar!

201st Place in the Lake Murray 10K! Front Runners

Nice run on Saturday. I am not a runner yet. I am a person who runs to try to beat the chubby monster. I have made this point before. Some of you may feel it is humanistic - get over it!

No question the really fast runners (let's say the top 50) make me a little uncomfortable. The 40 year old and above guys (69 of those beat me including a 72 year old man named Henry) particularly make me wonder about my commitment. I still don't like it when my legs hurt really bad and I struggle to breathe. Getting up at stupid o'clock in the morning to dodge cars before daylight does not necessarily ring my bell either.

The front runners do have a purpose. They exist to make me ask myself the question: Am I really doing my best? Sometimes, however, the front runners can discourage me. Front runners can overwhelm me. But, I can't let them excuse me from the table. In most cases, they will always be there, smiling, and waving their trophies.

I don't resent the front runners. In fact, I admire them. They will always remind me I have another level to go. But my target must be my next level. I ran 6.2 miles in 55.36. The winner (a 40 year old, Eric) finished in 31.42. If my goal is to beat Eric, I quit. If my goal is to beat Dino, that is worth getting out of bed for!

The Poetry of Deconstruction

I am not a poet nor an avid poetry reader, yet this one left a mark. We have talked in my circles about trying to make a living working on the wrecking crew. The deconstructionist feels and acts smart. We may even sound smart. The problem: the Kingdom is no better if we fail to build.

Anybody can wreck something with a sledge hammer. Maybe it is a thought, an effort, an intent, or a strategy. No intelligence or skill is needed. Just nothing better to do. Thanks to Tim Sanders, one of the unsung heroes of the church planting world, for finding this:

As I watched them tear a building down
A gang of men in a busy town
With a ho-heave-ho, and a lusty yell
They swung a beam and the side wall fell

I asked the foreman, “Are these men skilled,
And the men you’d hire if you wanted to build?”
He gave a laugh and said, “No, indeed,
Just common labor is all I need.”

“I can easily wreck in a day or two,
What builders have taken years to do.”

And I thought to myself, as I went my way
Which of these roles have I tried to play?

Am I a builder who works with care,
Measuring life by rule and square?
Am I shaping my work to a well-made plan
Patiently doing the best I can?

Or am I a wrecker who walks to town
Content with the labor of tearing down?
“O Lord let my life and my labors be
That which will build for eternity!”

Moon Sand

Abby introduced me to something that may make me famous (my secret personal agenda). I was looking for Play Doh (old school). She introduced me to Moon Sand (new school).

What is terrifying you today? Change the shape of it -- into a prayer. Go ahead. I tried. I liked it. Eugene Peterson's loose translation of a section of the Bible gave me the idea (Philippians 4:6-7). He introduced the concept of molding.

Do you ever handle anxiety this way? Do you go over an issue constantly in your mind, emotionally massaging scenarios, conversations, etc? There is a positive, prayerful way to convert this damaging habit. When you are going over the issue, mold it into a detailed prayer experience with the Lord. Use a little Moon Sand to help.

Fun II - Don't Go Cannibal on Me!

So, two cannibals were eating a clown. One said to the other, does this taste a little funny to you? Batta boom!

Okay, one cannibal said to the other, I don't like my mother-in-law. The other replied, so, eat your vegetables. Batta boom!

Jokes are a bit old school, but hey, I attend that school. I have for years. I love joke genres. But since the topic this week is fun maybe there is something deeper.

Eating people is no fun. Been there, done that, will do it again. If you are trying to make this week more fun than last, and someone offers you human flesh, just say no. Tell them you would prefer mashed potatoes. Sounds much more civilized to me.

Is Funner A Word? Random Thoughts on Fun

I read the following statement in Fast Company several years ago: If you are not having fun, you are probably not doing a good job.

Steve Jobs created a stir recently by describing the new iPod Touch as the funnest iPod ever. Apple has sold 160 million iPods since 2001. Now that is what I call fun.

Is funnest a word? Steve Jobs has made it one. According to Grammar Girl, fun can be used as an adjective, so for you grammar Pharisees, funnest is okay. It may not sound okay, but it is okay, so you ain't got no argument.

What is fun for you? When is the last time you had some? Now, don't break any rules. That is college stuff. That backfires. Have a giggle today on me. Give me one too, I could use it. Look for laughter. Enjoy a belly laugh. Come on. It's okay. Really Really.

Be Careful Today

I am not sure why something seemingly so trite and clithe' made an impression on me in 2004. No story behind the story is coming. Maybe it was because my heart was so broken at the time over certain events happening in my life.

My oldest living daughter, Krista, was a student at Grace Christian School. Her principal told a couple of kids, as they left the school, Be Careful. He looked at me and explained that he never tells young people good bye without including a reminder to Be Careful. He explained, You never know what might happen to them when they leave. You want to know you did your best to warn them.

So many places you could go with this. Anything from the power of informal conversations to the importance of paying close attention to your life and relationships. I do know that as Yvette, Anna, and Abby got in the car today, the last thing I told them was, Be Careful. You, too.

Yesterday's Exception - STOP FIRST

As I read my own blog (what egos we bloggers have!) and admired the content, I noticed an exception to my don't change yet approach. I stand by the principle, but the order of the action steps need alteration at times.

The Bible calls the exception sin. I don't mind using Bible words, but if you are not a Bible person the words can make things foggy. Sin is hurtful actions that are anti-God and anti-people (they are the same thing, you know). I am not angry about anybodies' sin but my own. But, I hate to see people damage God's plan (best intentions) and each other.

Whether it is a spray bottle for our cat, or an old fashion twisting of the ear for our children, some actions need to be stopped, NOW. What are they for you?

However, to stay stopped, permanently, you need to follow yesterday's steps. Your system, way of thinking, environment, and humanity, will suck you right back in if you don't. Prepare for change. Press. Run. Enjoy the marathon. You are not alone.

Last Word (Preparing for Change)

I used several props as I attempted to communicate the message of God yesterday. Because of time (the weekly issue for me, a stageoholic) I did not put the strongest hammer down in coherent fashion. I used numerous items needed for me to complete a long outdoor run. Shoes, gel, water, flashing light, and a medical ID were just a few of them. Collecting the right items, thus, preparation for the run, took time and research.

Change is hard but we approach it like it is a piece of cake. I roll out of bed each Monday with a long list of actions that will make me a better dad, husband, health nut, disciple, church planter strategist, friend, brother, son . . .

What I ignore is that significant change is not as simple as throwing a few new products in my grocery cart. Permanent change requires a complete overhaul of my personal system that created a habit, hang-up, or short-coming. Time, research, advice, support, etc., are all a part of the process.

Paul (the old apostle) spoke of life as a marathon run in progress. He explained how his value system was turned upside down since he met Christ. Although the first steps of his change was dramatic and fast, the second phase took a lifetime.

So, altogether now, what needs changing most in you today? Don't change yet. Begin the preparation phase for a long, ongoing race. What in your overall environment, and way of thinking, needs to change to prepare for change? The answer to this question should include a list of action points. This is more profound than you think. Get everything ready, then, with God's help press. Run. Watch what He does!

Beyond My Feet

After the Crooked Creek Park 5K Saturday, David and I stopped at Fleet Feet, a running store. Little did I know I was about to make a shocking discovery.

Okay, so I went through one of those high tech, what kind of running shoe you are supposed to wear, type experiences. The young guy knew his stuff. He was in no hurry. Video, barefoot on the treadmill, on the treadmill in shoes, measuring standing up, and measuring sitting down, was all a part of the whole enchilada.

The discovery: my running shoes were a full size too small. I was impressing myself with my pain. Part of life for an aspiring distance runner, right? I thought it was supposed to hurt that bad!

What did I learn? The pain I was experiencing was not a necessary part of the experience. Dog! I thought it was out of my control. I felt I was paying the price.

As Dr. Rahman might ask, Where does it hurt today? Your pain may be self-inflicted. I have discovered my self-inflicted pain goes far beyond my feet. Not part of the Father's plan, part of my uninformed choices and lack of true mirror gazing.

The Last Word - Throw the World a Curve Ball

When I talk in churches I struggle to keep within time boundaries. Having been on both sides (talker and listener) for the past ten years, I have learned this reality: talkers are a lot more passionate about talking, than listeners are passionate about listening and learning. So, although I don't want to finish my sermons, I know some people are cheering me on to the finish line from gun.

Almost every time I finish, there usually is one more thing I wish I would have said. I am going to use Mondays for The Last Word. Yesterday, I talked about the attitude of successful Christians. The attitude, featured in Philippians 2:5-11 could, not only help we insiders get along better (not that we don't uh . . . err . . .). The attitude could also be the kind of thing God uses to change the world.

Today's last word: Being a servant to others is not what they expect. What do they expect? They expect us to be angry and demanding. They expect love with strings (expectations) or got a return on investment. At the very least they know we love them to make ourselves look and feel good. When we serve out of who we are, God sends loud and clear messages about who He really is. Curveball! Strike!

Do you ever wonder what Jesus expected from Judas, His betrayer? Reformation? Conversion? A change of heart? A donation? Yet, Jesus washed his feet. Wow! Love without strings.

We are not natural born servants. We, in addition to having been Born To Be Wild, were also Born to Be Served. So I must do/be the unnatural. That requires Divine Intervention.

Dark Knight - A Better Class of Criminal

Fast Track Review: From beginning to end you are falling out of a plane. The time flew by.

Best Scene in the Movie: The First One - The School Bus Bank Robbery

Best Actor - Heath Ledger (Joker) - I have a mind of my own, but everyone is right about this one. He dominated the movie from beginning to end. This is not your father's Joker.

Best Line (s) - Wanta see a pencil disappear (Joker, before he jams it in some one's eye) This city deserves a better class of criminal and I am going to give it to them (Guess Who?).

Most Overrated - The Violence - Except for Two-Faces' Face - Intensity should keep the kids away, but the majority of the violence is cut away stuff. Little or no profanity.

Most Underrated - Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman) (the pathos, the pressure). Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman), but I have never seen him in a movie that I didn't love his character.

Would I See it Again? - ASAP

A Day Late - No Perfect Season

I made this one up . . . My definition of the future: The place I have yet to fail. Jesus pointed to the future when he addressed the woman in adultery. He said, go and sin no more.

My counselor would say, resolve the past. My coach would say, face the future. Two sides of the same coin. Problem? Yes. We tend to tread water enjoying yesterday's failures. Yesterday's failures seem to give us permission to stay in the fog. I have an excuse, I am a loser.

BTW, this blog is a day late for two football teams: North Carolina State Wolfpack and Baylor Bears. Current realities: They get out of bed today with no chance of a perfect season. I get out of bed in the same condition. So, where do we go from here? No excuses. A lot of daylight today. Run toward it.

Life is a Team Sport

I agree with Putman, Church is a team sport. So is marriage. So is parenting. Yada. Yada. Yada.

The road was long this morning. David and I planned a mid-week big run. He was on vacation and I was just feeling stupid. He did not show. I agree 4:45 a.m. is a bit early. My big run turned into 1/2 of a big run. Alone is just not the same.

When David and I run, we laugh. We make up funny things. We talk about grandchildren. We talk about how the race is a metaphor for life and a relationship with God. The journey is way too long to go solo. The trail is too dangerous and dark.

You can have all kinds of people around you, but you can still be going solo. You can be an extrovert and be running by yourself. Sometimes it feels easier and safer, but it's not. Phone a friend today.

Recovery - The Last Race

David (son-in-law) and I set personal distance running records Saturday morning. If you are a serious runner you would not be impressed. If you are not, you probably would be. I did learn some things beyond running.

Adrenalin can get you through the race, but recovery is a big deal. We felt euphoria when we got close enough to know we would finish nine miles. Wow, we made it! Then, reality. How will my body respond the following 48 hours? I was in less control of that than finishing the race.

As I hang out with leaders, and lead a little myself, I have seen this principle many times. Leaders short sell the effect of post race trauma. They focus so well on the mountain, the goal, the finish line, that they tend to destroy themselves and the people around them to get there.

This is more profound than you think. I did better than I thought 48 hours after Saturday. Why? I don't want to take too much credit, but I ran with after shock in mind. Shoes, hydration, stretching, carb replacement, post race meal, and a little medication were all key issues. I thought beyond the finish line. Because of that and God's grace (no kidding), I will race again.

As a leader, don't treat every race like it is the last one. You will last longer, you will win more, and there will be more joy in the journey!

From Tennessee - Rocket Surgery?

One of the funnest quotes I overheard in a long time came this week came from Mark via his sister. It's not rocket surgery!

I have been with movement makers for five days straight. I feel alive. I love environments where I am constantly overhearing new things that matter.

I am near Newport, Tennessee. Some churches here handle snakes as part of getting to know God. I think they are guilty of turning a real relationship with Jesus into rocket surgery.

No matter what obstacle you are facing today, don't turn it into rocket surgery. Answers may be more simple and obvious than you think. Look for clarity. Look for next steps. Look for relationships and healthy environments. Leave the snakes alone. Simplify.

Nothing Normal - Overhearing

Last week was not an average week in my journey. Anytime I can connect with Leadership Network in Dallas, I come away with change in my pocket. Anytime I can hang out with Neal, Chris, Bryan, Jay, Ryan, well . . . you have those kind of people, you know what I mean.

Environments. I believe leaders look for places not information. The vast majority of our learning and growth is informal. I overhear most of what I need. How did Jesus do it? As people did life with Him they overheard His everyday conversations.

Overhearing is safer. I don't have to admit I am struggling when I overhear something that helps me. I may act like I am not listening, but I am. So, if I am around the right people I can ask questions. I confess struggles. I overhear. Sounds like a win/win! For you Bible readers, check out Psalm chapter 1.

From Dallas - Handy Men

No matter how smart we get we still thrive best in informal relationships and in groups. I know we live in the information age but the real question is, so what?

I am surrounded by people in Dallas who are trying to figure something out. Sometimes I disengage and watch, simply to learn how to figure things out. I may not need to figure out the issues they do. But I am always up against some kind of wall. What are my options? Which one is best? What does God want me to do? Know what I mean?

I admire men handy men. Personally, when looking at a wall to paint or a room to remodel I feel overwhelmed. I feel no different than if I were assigned to perform brain surgery on you. Handy men observe, think, talk with other people, consider options, and make choices. Wow.

Dream Beyond the Backside

We had seen the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial before. We learned more of the story this time. Described as the world's largest piece of sculpture, the details of the story and the work are amazing. The project took 55 years to finish. World War I stopped the progress for 37 years.

Dreamers and get er' done types all were a part of making Stone Mountain a famous place. A different thing gets both people out of bed each day. Decide who you are and get some opposites around you. Don't be satisfied working with people who are just like you. Don't take the safe way out. Dream beyond the backside of the horse! See the whole picture.

God of the City

North American Mission Board business, Stone Mountain with the girls, and preaching at Briarlake was part of the fun over the past week. All fun. More details coming.

Got a close up look at the city of Atlanta. I am not an expert on the history or the state of things now, but the parts I experienced were not so good. I wondered out loud as Abby and I walked through a pretty rough section of the city -- the old apostle Paul used to come to a city like this, preach the Gospel and start churches. People would give their lives to Jesus and everything would change. He is the God of Atlanta. Their best hope has become their only hope.

You Are Not As Good As You Think

I try to encourage, but maybe today, you need a reminder that will bring out the best in you.

List what you think you are good at:

Marriage?
Parenting?
Communication?
Relationships?
Work Ethic?
Other?

Pick one of those areas. If you think you are pretty good, you have probably stopped growing. In spite of all of us needing: sniff, sniff, just a little word of encouragement, often a swift kick in the butt goes further.

What about the area of family relationships? Remember, you can buy your kids up to about age 11 or 12. You will be a hero, particularly if you can find Chuck E. Cheese. You can make your wife an action item on your to do list, and brag to others about your date nights. Take another look, those relationships need work. You are not doing as good as you think you are. I know I am not.

A Fly on the Wall - Most Difficult IV

I live drama. One benefit of joining Sons of Italy (national organization committed to preserving Italian culture) is for me to get in touch with my roots. For an Italian everything is dramatic. I can remember back in the day, when Grandma Senesi was living, everything, I mean everything, was a big deal.

Grandma would announce to the world that she was walking through the house to put her shoes on. Ben Gay (not a confession but an analgesic balm) was the cure for everything. The Puerto Ricans moving into to New Jersey were destroying her town. She hated signs in Spanish. Pretty interesting perspective from a person whose parents arrived to the U.S. on a boat, through Ellis Island, as opposed to a hospital in Jersey.

At my last Sons of Italy meeting I listened to a 15 minute argument over dinner from a man in his 80s and a woman in her 70s about how to prepare a particular recipe. I understand me a bit better now. No excuses, just tendencies. Not always wrong, but sometimes wrong.

One thing about me, that makes me a difficult person, is my tendency to overreact. A fly on the wall can be a controversy or a long discussion. Sometimes it gets me in trouble. I read a bunch into you saying, good morning D, are you having a good day? I walk away thinking, what did he/she really mean by that?

I don't have three steps to avoid overreacting on today's blog. Why? Because I don't know them. Maybe you have them. So where am I on the issue? More aware. That is my single point today. What tendencies get you in trouble? Start with the most obvious. You will find plenty of traction there!

I Am Who I Am, How Convenient!

Really? A Long time ago I picked up a book called, The Search for Significance. Robert McGee was the author. If you were to ask the 5 most influential books in my life other than the Bible Search would be on that list.

The premise of the book is that many of our beliefs are lies. When I confessed on Monday the most difficult person I had ever met was me, it was not a sign of concession. When I get to that point, I am sending a wrong message to the world about what God may be like. His very nature is to transform everything He touches.

Oh, one lie McGee wrote about is, I am who I am, I cannot change, I am hopeless. The church lady would say, how convenient! Lie as it may be, it also becomes an excuse to do nothing. No seeking God. No coaching, counseling, mentoring, honest conversations, accountability, prayer or bible study. No goals. Wow, I am getting sleepy just listing all the things missing from a life that has given up. I think I will take a nap now.

And The Winner is . . .

Well, let me stop the teasing. Don't get me wrong, I have people on the short list. The list of nominees for the most difficult person I ever met takes me on a walk down memory lane.

One person is clearly the winner, however. My sixth grade teacher deserves honorable mention. My eighth grade basketball coach is up there. My college baseball coach definitely makes the list. I met some people in New Orleans who gets in the top 10. Cincinnati had two. South Carolina has nominees.

I wonder if I made a list and interviewed each (of those still living). Did make their list? You have to think out loud a bit on this one. What came first?

BTW, you probably know by now, no false humility intended. The most difficult person I have ever met is me. I will tell you more tomorrow.

Anderson this week for a pastor's retreat. Great day yesterday. Willow Ridge http://www.willowridgechurch.org/ , Crossroads in Greer, dinner with Jay and Joanna Mitchell; Trey and Leslie Begin; and of course Kermit (that is his real name). All about church planting and changing the world. No small things.

The Most Difficult Person I Ever Met

Wow, I don't know where to start brainstorming. This feels like a therapist question. Not that there is anything wrong with that, right?

How about you? Who is the most difficult person you ever met? What did you do? I will tell you about the most difficult person I ever met, Monday.

Elephants and Coaching

Justin, an eight year old from San Diego, weighed in with his favorite elephant joke. How can you tell if an elephant has been in your refrigerator? There are footprints in the butter!

We overuse the expression: there is an elephant in the room. Usually we mean there is something big and obvious being ignored.

Working through issues with the help of another person is a great asset of being coaching. The downside is that we can go so deep we miss the elephant footprints in the butter. So, what is the coaching question of the day? What obvious, very big, gray, wrinkly thing, with big flappin' ears do you need to work on? Start there. Let me know how it goes!

Rock Hill and Greenville today.

Movie Reviews - I Need to Get a Life!

Back off a blog vacation, and a record month of readers in June. One thing that happened in June for me: Movies! Do I need to get a life or what? My rating system has been influenced by Logan and Ridley's (long story, sorry for an insider reference) 0-5 church planter behaviorial rating system: 5 being the best movie in history; 4 being better than 80% of the movies, 3 - 60%; 2 - 40%; 1 - 20%;

1. Prince Caspian - In fear of sounding metrosexual I don't want to come right out and say this is not my kind of movie, uh, er, but . . . wait I am not supposed to say that. I like to step out of my genre in books, movies, restaurants etc. for the fun of it. So, I enjoyed the movie. Problem for me is, for the most part, you know how these deals will end. You are only there to see what it is going to look like and who might die (kind of like real life right?). I was not disappointed, I just needed more entertainment. My Assessment: 2.

2. Camp Rock - Some of the cheeziest dialogue in the history of movie making, particularly in the first 30 minutes, but I am good with the Jonas' phenom. The movie has good lessons about relationships, impressing the crowd, truthfulness, etc. Don't rush out to see this one, particularly if you don't have middle school kids. Don't worry, you will watch it. Big brother Disney will make you eventually. Although the music is not on par with High School Musical: My Assessment: 3 (due to strong character lessons).

3. The Bucket List - Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicolson are 2 of my favorite actors. Not predictable (real important to me). Almost cried at the end when Jack Nicolson kissed the most beautiful girl in the world and marked it off the list. I loved the movie. More cussin' however than a Baptist business meeting (both are rated PG-13) so I can't give it my full blessing. Sorry for being old school, but I do have a grief line on movie content that is important to me. There are some great moments though, including a couple if fascinating discussions about faith. My Assessment: 3.5 (some funny parts, strong lessons on making amends, living/dying, etc.).

4. Kung Fu Panda - What a great surprise! I do listen to the critics. I can't help it. Critics were giving this one a thumbs down. The lessons of persistence, courage, and determination were all there. Also, there was enough intensity to reel me in emotionally. That is another thing I want in a movie. If a movie does not take me to another place and time then I just wasted my time. This movie took me to another place, time, and culture. For horse racing fans I think that would be the trifecta, right? My Assessment: 4.o.

Columbia Today. Enjoying the most beautiful girls in the world, Summer travel, time at HQ, and teaching at Willow.

Root Canals, Kidney Stones, and Ripping Wall Paper

As I was ripping down wall paper Saturday I had a revelation of three painful experiences. They fit together nicely. These three experiences are not the worse things that could happen. However, they are three things that you hear people moan about.

I don't remember the first time I heard someone talk about a kidney stone. I assure you I felt their pain was overstated at the time. I am that way. A root canal is such a common painful experience it goes right there with a cold toilet seat and hot pizza cheese stuck to the roof of your mouth as the gold standard of pain.

I googled how to rip wall paper. It helped. I talked to the nice ladies at Lowe's. They made nice suggestions. With the help of my most lovely, Yvette, we got it done. I am glad the room was small. Ripping wall paper is a different kind of pain, but maybe along with working tobacco, hauling hay, or hanging sheet rock, another gold standard for agony.

What hurts today? What frog do you dread eating? Our pain is the raw material that can be used by our Father to make our heart into His. Don't go it alone. Talk to me. Check with the nice ladies at Lowe's. We have either experienced your pain or know someone that has.

Cola today. Headquarters. Digging out from a week at IHOP, no I meant IOP Bryan.

The Energizer Bunny has a Battery

The Leadership Secrets of the Energizer Bunny could keep going . . . and going . . . and going. There are plenty more places to go and people to see. Friday is a good place to wrap up. BTW if Maxwell was right when he said, leadership is influence, then EB is the man, uh, er . . . maybe EB is the bunny! Right?

I try not to assume faith in Christ on TOL. I don't want drop in readers to think they are crashing a private party. It is good practice not to assume faith in the people that cross my path. I am not sure how good I am at it but I am better than I used to be.

All that to say that the last leadership secret from the Energizer Bunny is a faith secret. Leaders without faith in Christ still lead and lead quite effectively. Let's be honest here. Don't forget, however, the good to great principle. What or who can take you to the next level?

Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind. We are useless.

Charles Spurgeon (British preacher from 1800's) made the previous statement. EB's secret is his battery. He has power that is beyond him. He can run faster, focus better, and accomplish more because of the gift of power. He did not deserve it, did not even know it existed, and probably did not think he needed until someone gave it to him. In fact, would it be safe to say, EB's battery defines him?

Once you claim you are a leader and a Christ follower you raise your own bar. People expect more. You are saying, 'my leadership will be distinct, my choices will be informed and empowered by God Himself, and my values will driven by an eternal perspective'.

For EB, it is all about the battery. His secret is, there is no secret. What is it all about for you?

The Energizer Bunny is No Lone Ranger - Leadership Secrets III

He made it to the top five! Who would have thunk it (as my dad used to say)? Was it his own brilliance? Was it his giftedness? Not at all. EB could not have listened to everybody, but he did listen intently to somebody.

Could you imagine a young Energizer Bunny with a resume'? Where would he go? What was he qualified to do/be? What was he thinking? One day a pinhead from Energizer saw something in EB (before he was EB). So, should EB listen? What made this pinhead any different?

The environment of an effective leader includes people. In fact, I like to be around effective leaders because I will find around them, effective leaders, young and old. Visionaries. People, regardless of age that are passionate about learning, growing and making a difference. The ear of effective leaders belongs to somebody (usually more than one). He is very particular about who that 'somebody' is.

The leader, who is Christian has given his life away to Jesus Christ. Included in the package deal is his ear. That, is the beginning of wisdom. To whom are you listening? Is any recalibration needed?

Sad Day! IOP is history. Not dramatic. Are vacations supposed to be? That means it was a good one, right?

Leadership Secrets of EB - Doc Rivers' Shirt

USA Today reported this morning that Doc Rivers' (Coach of World Champion Boston Celtics) Gatorade-soaked shirt was bought by an anonymous bidder for $55,000. Just what I always wanted, a Gatorade-soaked shirt. I really don't want Doc's. I want my own.

When the Energizer Bunny was just a kid, I wonder what he wanted? What was his dream? How much can a stuffed pink bunny want out of life? Again, since EB was unable for comment, I am left to imagine what his journey to fame must have looked like.

I did three secrets yesterday. Today, only one. Nothing new or profound here. Hopefully a reminder. Effective leaders do certain things. No matter where you meet them and what their particular assignment looks like, they are similar. Normally the best do not aspire to be great, but they are focused on doing great.

Effective leaders are focused leaders. Because of that, they are not always easy to be around. My agendas and ideas are not very important to them, unless it is where they are going. EB may have had all kind of opportunities to chase the dreams and plans of others. No matter the offer, he just kept going . . . and going.

Last full day at IOP. All good. Beautiful.

Leadership Secrets of the Energizer Bunny

I can't remember who coined the term BFO or Blazing Flash of the Obvious. BFO applies here to the Energizer Bunny. He did not respond to my request for a blog interview. His agent said he was busy spinning around and banging his drum. This is a rare case of what got him to the top will likely keep him there.

Here are a few of his secrets:
1) Consistency - As with missionary to India, William Carey, you could say about EB, he is a plodder.

2) Metacognition - Impressed by my new word? I heard it from someone at WRC last week. Thanks Lindsay. Awareness of self, ability to set goals and learn, etc . . .

3) Intuitive - Are leaders made or born? Likely a bit of both, but EB simply maximized his opportunities. Will you today? Or are you just on the way to someplace else? I will unpack this more.

More on the way. Isle of Palms is great. Stay tuned.

I Spin Around and Bang My Drum!

Leadership is a subject that gets plenty of attention. I wonder if Jesus would have gone to a leadership seminar or read a Maxwell book? We may never know. I guess I had better feed the hungry leader animal in us and go with a winning subject. Readership completes me.

And now . . . the shame on you, bad dog, no, get off the couch, don't do that there, get outside, part! Who would not want to be on the most famous living people list? Oh, don't get humble on me. Remember, fame means you achieved something extraordinary. I don't want to be Rick Warren, but I would like to be the Rick Warren of my world (My confession to Ray Brock).

Mike and Mike (ESPN Radio) talked about a famous Americans list Friday. You could guess some, although I would have never guessed that Michael Jordon was #1. You will never guess who beat Oprah and Obama on this particular list.

I spilled my coffee, dropped my cell phone in mid-conversation, lost my highlighter in the floor board, and choked on my fiber bar when I heard who #5 was. The Energizer Bunny was considered one of the five most famous people in America.

As hard as I try to be famous, a stuffed bunny who works for a battery company, just being who he is, becomes famous. Let's face it TOL readers. Without a big break from Energizer where would this bunny be? He would be laying in a glass box at a cheap arcade waiting for the dreaded steel claw. Wow, that's gotta hurt.

Does he know he is famous? Does his parents know? Do they care? Where does he go from here? Does he have aspirations? I doubt it.

Does PETSA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Stuffed Animals pronounced "pizza") know? I am calling them. They would not be happy about the long, boring, hours of unpaid work. Banging his drum, spinning in circles, and giving his all, this bunny gets shut up in the dark at the end of the day. Abuse!

I am outraged by the whole deal. Here I am banging my drum, spinning in circles, and giving my all for what? What can I learn from the apparent fame of the Energizer Bunny? I think you can see we have potential here, so I will pick up Leadership Secrets of the Energizer Bunny tomorrow.

Isle of Palms for a few days with the Yvette, Anna, and Abby. We are already having fun. I try not to let expectations ruin vacations. A slow line at Subway in Orangeburg and thunderstorms in Mt. Pleasant didn't even throw us off.

New and Improved TOL! Now Featuring Twitter

I can't believe what I just saw! You are right Dustin, who cares about the monkey I just saw running through my neighborhood. Twittering is kind of about me. But it is fun. I don't fully comprehend it all (sorry for sound like an old guy, about 3 of you out there are older than me).

Check out the right hand column of my blog. I can send real time updates of what I am seeing/experiencing through my cell. I promise no monkey on the street updates. Newsworthy updates only. So easy a caveman can do it (sorry cavemen), that was a self-reference.

I beat some of you to Twitter, but no way I would beat Hardwick http://www.jayhardwick.com/ and his cup of joe from Starbucks. Not in this life :)

For more info go to http://www.twitter.com/

Coming Attractions - Knock Yourself Out

I don't dominate my blog with a lot of comments about church and church planting. I did respond to recent blogs of my friend and church planter Ray Brock from Ohio.

Where should we plant ourselves - in "traditional" or "contemporary" churches?

Why do planters avoid urban areas and to focus on suburbs and college campuses?

Warning, my responses are long so . . . if you are motivated, knock yourself out :)

www.raybrock.blogspot.com

www.findyourspot.com is up and running too. Have some fun with this one.

Vacation at Isle of Palms next week. Looking forward to hanging out with the girls.

Also next week: blog reviews on The Shack, Camp Rock, and Kung Fu Panda.

Today wasn't work, but I counted it! Eddie Cox, Neal McGlohon, and Larry Bateman in the upstate. What a country!