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Why Go to Church!

Our senior pastor at Crossroads Church in Loveland Colorado, @johnsmithcrsrds, has shared in a couple of leadership settings that statistics are showing that the average church attendere goes two out of every nine weeks.  Stating the obvious -- this is not good!

A few years ago in a leadership gathering with Bill Hybels, senior pastor of Willowcreek Community Church Bill shared five reasons why it is important to go to church -- I trust this will resonate with you.

1. Jesus modeled it for us. He made it a practice of His.  Luke 4:16 "When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom."
2. A reminder that you are not alone -- that you are not crazy
3. Important for our children.  Your kids are depending on you  They cannot drive themselves.
4. The Power of the Manifest Presence of God -- Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."
5. Out of Discipline and Obedience. Hebrews 10:24, 25 "And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, 25not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

 

My last GLS at site #44

Over the past couple of weeks I have been experiencing a series of "lasts" (experiences I am having for the last time) as I have been preparing for my move from San Diego to Colorado.  

One of these lasts took place this past Thursday and Friday being a part of the Willow Creek Association Global Leadership Summit here in San Diego where for nine years Journey Community Church has served as the host site (site #44).  During my 16-year run at JCC I have had the privilege of leading several different teams and departments and serving as the GLS point leader was truly one of my favorites.

At the conclusion of every GLS I become a human thanking machine -- making it my priority to thank the incredible volunteers who serve with tireless passion and energy.

(A pre-service team meeting way before guests start arriving.)

Many of our volunteers take up to three days vacation to serve at this event.  During our nine years we have never had to hold any type of formal recruitment, in fact we often turn away those who ask to volunteer and many of our team have been serving all nine years we have hosted the event!

This last GLS we had 42 churches, businesses and organizations represented with over in 400 attendance making it our biggest attended GLS to date.

So 9 years and 82 sessions later I want to say thank you to all who served and made the GLS such a rewarding and vision infusing learning experience.  I truly hold you in highest regards!  I have no doubt that in 2013 as Journey will celebrate 10 years of hosting the GLS -- it will be the best yet!

I will definitely miss being there with you, but I will be keeping tabs as Crossroads also serves as a GLS site (#138) serving the northern Colorado area.

Let us continue to lead where we are!

A 16-Year Journey Comes to a Close

On February 25, 1993 being relatively new to San Diego (just 2 months) my roommate at the time, Clint Hardick, invited me to the first public gathering of Horizon Christian Fellowship Rancho San Diego.  It was there in Suite 160 on 2930 Jamacha Road where I heard founding pastor Mike Burns share the vision that he and his wife, Laurie, had to start the kind of church that could potentially reach the 400,000 plus unchurched in East County San Diego.  Though I was on staff at another church at time -- I remember leaving inspired by what I heard that evening -- I count it as such a privilege to have been amongst the first 40 that were there that evening.

It would be almost 3 and 1/2 years later on September 7, 1996 that I had the privilege of joining the staff of that church that we know now as Journey Community Church where I have been serving ever since. During this time I have held almost every pastoral role in the life of our church -- most recently serving as the connections pastor -- where I provided leadership to our small groups ministries.

Well last weekend, August 3 & 5, I shared with our church that my time at Journey was coming to a close.

The short of it is that after much prayer, fasting, counsel and the leading of God's Spirit I accepted the call to serve as the executive pastor of Crossroads Church in Loveland Colorado.  I cannot begin to tell you (in future posts I will) what an exciting opportunity this is for our family!

Our family -- my wife Tara, whom is the one I think most of you will really miss has served as a kids ministry director for several years, my son Rhett & daughter were recipients of gracious send off and heart-felt prayer.

Over the past 16 years I have had the incredible privilege of serving under two Godly leaders -- Mike Burns and Ed Noble respectively, worked with a great staff team and serving with some of the best volunteers in the world.  

In addition I cannot thank you enough for the countless prayers you have prayed on behalf Rhett over the past nine years because of his heart condition and I trust that I can count on you to continually be praying for him moving forward.

Also there been so many life moments that took place because of Journey most notably I met Tara here and both my kids were dedicated here.

However, perhaps what I am most grateful during my time here is how you, the people of Journey, allowing me the incredible opportunity to have a front row seat in your lives where I have been able to see God move in some amazing and miraculous ways that served to strengthen my own relationship with Him in ways you will never know this side of Heaven.

It has been incredible privilege and honor to have been a part of this team for so long, however the greater honor for me was to be apart of you in this church -- so with all this being said.

Thank You!

My Second Grader's Telling of the Christmas Story

Before school let out for Christmas break my son Rhett's 2nd grade teacher asked each student in class what they thought Christmas is about.  Here is the response that he typed out.

The actual project he turned in is below and I have retyped verbatim what he wrote out.

The most important thing about Christmas is Jesus' Birthday and Jesus' being born its also about the wise men and Jesus' Mom and dad.. They had to sleep in a barn well Jesus was born.  When Jesus was born he had to sleep in some hay in the barn.  It smelld bad there was donkys and shee and maybe a cow.  Three wise men followed a star that took them to the new born king and the new born king is Jesus!  When the wise men go there they gave Jesus some stuff and that's what Christmas is all a bout.

By Rhett

The Land Between -- GLS Weekend Extra

Still wanting more from what you experienced this GLS weekend?

Here are some additon learnings from Jeff Manion .. enjoy!

 

Also for more information on book "The Land Between" available at the Daily Journey Counter this weekend,  check this out below:

 

The Land Between -- "GLS Weekend" @Journey

2011will mark the 8th year that Journey Community Church will serve as the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) host site in the San Diego area.  Annually this world-class leadership training event impacts hundreds of leaders in our community and tens of thousands globally.  For three years now we have designated a weekend to feature an actual GLS message given at a previous event to give our church a sampling of what an incredible event the GLS is.

This weekend, May 27 & 29, is our GLS weekend featuring one of the highest rated sessions from last year's conference.  It is the message "The Land Between" by Jeff Manion senior teaching pastor at Ada Bible Church.  The message is also the topic of a book by the same title that we will have available after each of our services at the Daily Journey counter. 

Here is a sample of what you will experience this weekend.

 

In addtion Journey members will be able to sign up for the 2011 GLS at an incredible host site rate after services also at the Daily Journey counter. 

You will not want to miss this weekend!

What You Need to Know for Good Friday & Easter @Journey!

Easter Weekend at Journey Community is quickly upon us.  There is still time to pick up the phone and invite someone.  I know there is still a few more people I need to follow up. 

So here is everything you need to know to make you and your guests' experience has meaningful as possible.

GOOD FRIDAY -- 5PM & 7PM:

• Service is scheduled to go 70 minutes in length.
• Communion will be served.
• Doors will be open 15 minutes prior to start of the listed service times and kids will check in will also be available from that time.
• Kid's ministry for infants to 5thgrade.
• Middle school and high school students are to attend the main service.
• Bookstore open at the conclusion of each service for a half hour
  

EASTER SUNDAY -- 8AM, 9:30AM & 11AM:

• Service is scheduled for 60 minutes.
• Easter kicks off a new series.
• Doors will be open 15 minutes prior to start of the listed service times and kids will check in will also be available from that time.
• Kid's ministry for infants to 5thgrade.
• Middle school and high school students are to attend the main service.
• Intepretation for the deaf will be available for the 11am service
• Complimentary refreshments available after each of the service
• Bookstore open at the conclusion of each service for a half hour

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Part 2 of Series that launched on Easter.
• Regular service times resumes: Fri. 7pm, Sun. 9 & 11am.
• Kids ministry for all services.
• Middle School & High School at 9 & 11am
• Kids Fun Day after the 11am service.

Journey Community Church. 619-464-4544. 8363 Center Drive La Mesa CA 91942.  wwwjourneycommunitychurch.org

Join Me in Going Barefoot Tomorrow!

Will join me in going barefoot tomorrow (Tuesday April 5) in support of One Day Without Shoes.

Many of us were inspired by TOMS and its chief shoe giver Blake Mycoskie after seeing him share at the 2010 Global Leadership Summit (GLS).  TOMS has an innovative  business model, "one for one" that is not only providing a quality product to consumers but is making a global impact by giving a pair of shoes to a child in need every time a pair is purchased.

  

Toward the end of last year I had a chance to visit the TOMS headquarters.  Click here to see what my experience was like.

CLEARING THE WAY -- the New Weekend Series at JCC

Today begins the 2nd Quarter of 2011 and if this quarter proves to be anything like the first we are in for quite the ride!  We began the year with the Jesus Creed series where we saw unprecedented movement in the life of our church.  We saw hundreds take significant faith steps (raising the bar in their devotional life, extending acts of compassion to their "neighbors" and finding the beauty of being in community with others)  in loving God and loving their neighbors.  And immediately after, we launched into the SHIFT series where again hundreds and hundreds stepped out in faith -- this time in areas of serving within the life of our church and out in our community!

This weekend we are launching a new series: CLEARING THE WAY -- Getting Ready for an Encounter with God.  A breakdown of what this series will look like.  Don't be a fool and miss any of it.

For centuries, followers of Jesus have known that though we can’t control when we have “God encounters,” we can make sure that we are ready and in the right place. You’ve got to clear the way! This is where the idea of the season of “LENT” came from. In this series we’ll look at three things that will help us “clear the way” as we get ready for The Weekend (Good Friday and Easter Sunday).

April 1 & 3 Fasting — Giving God a Little More Attention and Space
April 8 & 10 Focus — Making Sure We Don’t Completely Miss the Point
April 15 & 17 Forgetting — Unlearning is the Key

 

Are you ready to ... "SHIFT!?"

This weekend we begin what could potentially be pivotal and life-changing series for us a church and as individual Christ Followers -- the series is called SHIFT.

At certain times, we need increased momentum in our lives. We feel like something is a little off, we are lugging a little too slow or somehow need a surge of juice. That¹s when it¹s time for a shift.

This isn¹t about going in the wrong direction, it isn¹t a U-turn, it¹s about executing a gear change, it¹s a about an adjustment that will give us momentum A SHIFT.

This series will look at five different shifts that we think are staring us in the face, five cultural shifts, five momentum changers for us as a community and you as an individual. We only have so much energy so let¹s use it wisely, let¹s make sure we¹re in the right gear. Let¹s shift!

February 25 + 27    SERVE SHIFT From Renters to Owners
March 4 + 6             STUFF SHIFT From Giving to Surrender
March 11 + 13         FAITH SHIFT From Wishing to Expecting
March 18 + 20         MISSION SHIFT  From Watching to Engaging
March 25 + 27         PRAYER SHIFT From Saying Prayers to The Center

"My Top 5 Movies of 2010" (God at the Movies 8 candidates?)

God at the Movies has been a series our church has done for 7 years running.  It has proven to be a series that stirs up great conversation and presents an incredible opportunity to bring spiritually seeking friends.  Now whether we present an 8th installment of this series this summer has yet to be decided.  However, as it is the beginning of the year and many are making lists of what their favorites and best of's the past year. 

Here are my top five movies of 2010 all of which, in my opinion, would be great candidates for God at the Movies 8 should we decide to do it.

1. The Social Network (for those of you missed it in theates, it comes out on Blu-Ray and DVD on January 11.  Aaron Sorkin proves again what an incredible writer he is.)
2. Inception (This is really more like 1b and a film you will need to see more than once)
3. Toy Story 3  (The best of the three. Whereas sequels never deliver like original, this one does!)
4. True Grit (Go see it now.  Who doesn't think Hailee Steinfield playing Mattie Ross gives a stellar performance!)
5. How to Train Your Dragon ( Very poignant learning moments for me as a parent and leader)

I hope you will be prodded to go and see some of these films. 

What were your favorites from last year?

Do any of these make your list?

Dog Days Are Over -- The Importance of Having a Solid Bridge Element

After our four Christmas Services (Dec. 23 & 24) I commented to our lead pastor Ed Noble that the crowd seemed much more engaged than usual and hence he seemed a lot more comfortable from the outset of his message. Now the reason I am bringing this up is because on a high outreach weekend like Christmas or Easter the ratio of regulars to guests are much different than a regular weekend -- meaning there are a lot more guests.  As a result it takes a little longer for the crowd to become comfortable with who you are as a communicator.  It also effects what you say and how you say it.  Nuances that are normal for the regular attendees seem to go over the guests head and it is often met with a deafening silence.

Yet on this occassion this was not the case.  The primary reason I believe, and I know there were other subtle variables played a part, was the song that preceeded the message.  What I observed deepened my conviction of how important it is to have a meaningful, solid bridge element in our servivces to communicate to our spiritually seeking guests that we understand the world they live in; and that here is something that you may have already have connection to that we want to help draw spiritual meaning from.

The music team performed a cover of English Indie Rock artist Florence and the Machine's  Dog Days Are Over.  This song not only served the theme and content of the message, but it is a song that is current and was recently performed during the hit tv show Glee.  The lead on the song Minnie King nailed it. After the service when I played the song for my wife by Florence and the Machine she thought it was Minnie.  In additon it was the type of song that brought lot of energy that I believe really looseed people up. I think we forget what it is like to attend church as a guest. Many guest sit with folded or crossed arms as a indirect way of putting their guards up.  Yet with this song it could not help but relax them.

Basketball's holy land -- Cameron Indoor Stadium

In honor of Coach Mike Krzyzewski's (Coach K)  880th victory last night putting him number two all-time on the men's basketball win list, here are some, or should I say a lot of pics from my recent visit (Dec. 8, 2010) to basketball's holy land --  Cameron Indoor Stadium on the Duke University Campus in Durham North Carolina. 

Whether you are a Blue Devil fan or not, every serious college basketball fan should make a visit to Cameron for game at some point.  I am hoping to make this an annual pilgrimage.

I am fan of not only of Duke's basketball program, but Coach K has been an indirect leadership mentor to me.  I am sitting in a place of greatness.

I have been a long time Duke fan since 1978 when I followed them make a run to the final four eventually losing the championship game to Kentucky 94-88.   The purpose of this visit was belated milestone birthday gift to my mom, who is also long time Duke fan.

The game we attended Duke defeated Bradley 81-48.  It was a historic evening as Coach K chalked up win 877 moving him into third in all-time wins.

That night sophomore great Andre Dawkins had a career night scoring 31 points including 8 three-pointers.

Now what makes Cameron Indoor Stadium the number one home court advantage in all of sports is the "Cameron Crazies!"

Our seats gave a great view of seeing an incredible leader in action.

We spent the whole day walking the campus and taking in the mystique of this place and you never know who you might run into.  Here I am with all-american, player of the year nominee Nolan Smith.

Later that day we ran into sophomore sensation Ryan Kelly the starting 6 -10 forward.

Then after the game freshman phenom Kyrie Irving who was on his way to being a first-team All-American and no doubt freshman of the year. 

This was my second trip to Cameron this year.  Earlier this year I attended a game with my son,  and when we there there were only three of these now there are four.

 

 

Adding "Angst" to Any Christmas Gathering

Now that  Christmas is becoming a memory  and in a few days we will be putting away the Christmas tree and packing away all the decorations, here is something I want to prod you to put in the vault for next Christmas.

Most of us attend several Christmas party/gatherings during the course of the season.  Some are highly anticipated, some are more of a commitment or obligatin, some you wish you could put more energy toward -- these are some of the ways we approach them.  Now with these gatherings there is not only a commitment of our time, but also, in a lot of instances, we are responsible to bring a dish (if it is potluck style) and some of you might have some type of gift to bring for a gift exchange.  So seemingly simple tasks are exaggerated because there are so many of them.  So in the midst of an already full schedule and season here is how you can angst to any of these Christmas Gatherings.

You can do so by adding this gesture.  Ask each person that attends to bring a gift for Jesus.  It is His birthday afterall that we are celebrating right?  And when I am invited to a friend's birthday party, I believe the understood norm is that you bring a wrapped gift.  So why would it not be any different for Jesus the King of King and Lord of Lords. 

Trust me when I say this will be met with angst.  Now why would I want to add angst to an already somewhat stressfull season?  I will explain in a moment. 

Up to the day of the party they are usually in a quandry as to what to bring..  When I have done this in the past, people usually have these type of responses:  "What?"  "I don't understand?"  "A gift for Jesus???"  "Do I get Him clothes, I don't get it?" 

And my answer to these questions is always the same, "It's a birthday party, have you not bought a birthday gift before?"  This usually does nothing for them, but add to their frustration.  So again why do this?

Because it can lead to one of the most meaningful Christmas gatherings you may have.  I speak from experience. 

20 years ago when I began following Christ.  I was invited to a Christmas party and when I asked what I should bring thinking it would be a food item, I was told simply bring a gift for Jesus.  And I went through all of the angst and frustration that people I have posed this question to.  I called others I knew who were attending the party, the host -- all who offered no help.

Yet, it proved to be the most meaningful Christmas.  When we sat in a circle to share our gifts I was incredibly moved to see the thought, creativity and heart that was put into each gift. 

This past Christmas that we just celebrated we did a birthday for Jesus in one of the gatherings  attended , and no fail it had a similar effect of adding angst but more important meaning.  The gift I brought for Jesus is in the picture above. You might think I that is an odd gift, but there is explanantion to the significance and the meaning.

Until next Christmas ..

When I Begin to Drift ... SHIFT (Self Examination Questions)

Yesterday, I had the privilge of sharing the final message of 2010 at Journey Community Church.  In my message (titled SHIFT) I shared that at times we will drift from keeping the "one thing" in focus, and when we do we need to SHIFT. 

I shared some self examination questions that I have found helpful in shifting God back into focus as the "one thing.

Here they are in case you missed them:

• Is there any area of sin that I am struggling with?
• Am I genuinely engaging in the lives of people whom Christ desires for us to reach?
• Am I living life of conscientious dependence on Him?
• “I am living life with a grateful spirit?”

 

 

There is Still Time! "What Your Need to Know Regarding the Journey Christmas Services!"

Here is what you need to know regarding our Christmas Eve Services at Journey Community Church. 

 

Service times are Thursday Dec. 23 at 7pm & Friday Dec. 24 at 2,4, & 6pm. Please note that doors will be open 20 minutes prior to each service.  And if you don't take off right away stick around for complimentary holiday goodies.

There is childrens ministry class for kids 5 younger on the 23rd and for infant to care to 5th grade on the 24th.  Middle School and High School students are to attend the main services.

And for those of you last minute shoppers our bookstore will be open 6:30-8:30p on Dec. 23 & 1:30-8:00pm on Dec. 24.

On Sunday December 26 join us for one service at 10am as we celebrate one last time in 2010.  We will be partaking in communion in that service.

Journey Community Church. 8363 Center Drive La Mesa CA 91942. 619.464.4544 www.journeycommunitychurch.org.

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Learning from TOMS

Since its inception  as a footware company a friend and work colleague had been challenging me to take a look at TOMS Shoes.

After hearing Chief Shoe Giver Blake Mycoskie share the story of TOMS at The Global Leadership Summit (GLS) this past August I was definitely inspired by the TOMS story and was prodded to learn more about this company that is not only making a quality product, but having a global impact through it business model (One for One) that for every pair of shoes purchased gives away one pair of shoes to a child in need.

I love finding out what makes organization tick. So when I was given an opportunity to come visit their main offices in Santa Monica, I could not pass it up.  So yesterday I met with their Community Outreach Manager, Allie Tsavdarides,  and left encouraged by company's vision and story, but I also left encouraged with some great leadership learnings as well.

First -- the product. On the right is an example of a TOMS shoe you would purchase.  The shoe on the left is the one a child would receive.

In the United States, TOMS are worn primarily as casual wear.  However, in the countries that TOMS gives its shoes away, this is often a child's only pair.  Hence the color black because it matches most school uniforms.  Shoes are of the essence because these schools require a full uniform that includes shoes.  In addition because they are made for mutlifacated, daily use and they are often customized for that specific countries needs.

Again the shoe on the right is the one you would purchase, the one on the left is the one given.

Now my leadership take aways were invaluable! 

The first being the importance of keeping the mission of an organization clear, focussed and in front of the people.  The word "GIVE" (in reference to their innovative business model of giving a pair away for every pair purchased)  is displayed at various places throughout the warehouse and in some very creative ways. 

The other key leadership learning I took away was the importance of an organization's culture and having the right people on the team that contribute to the team's cultural DNA.  At TOMS skill, character and experience are give-ins in any employee.  What is also critical, is the expression of creativity whether you are in the finance, sales, design or any facet of the company.  And walking around the place, it oozes with creativity.

I hope you will be prodded to make a difference by buying a pair.

 

Halloween Was a Real Treat!

In a post released earlier today, I answered a question that was posed at one of our town hall meetings this past week -- "Will we be bringing back the Family Fall Festival?

In that post I answered the question with the practical and stategic reasons why we wont do the event. At the same time there was strong spiritual conviction that was developing within me on why we should not do the event and this conviction was deepend after what I experienced last Halloween.  Not to sound to corny but Halloween was a real "treat" for me.

To read about it click here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I hope this post will prod you in some way in how you approach the events of the evening and I hope you will share a similar experience this Halloween.

Why We Don't Do the Family Fall Festival

Over the past two weeks our church leadership held a series of town hall meetings with our lead pastor Ed Noble fielding questions primarily about the completion of our stewardship campaign, yet it was also opened for any questions about our church life in general.  One of the questions that was raised is the subject of this post.

"Will we be bringing back the Family Fall Festival?"

As the one of moderating the questions and one who had led the event for several years, I decided to answer the question.

The simple answer was "no." 

Here is a re-edited post that I did last year addressing that very question. 

Beginning in year one of our church’s 17 year history we had put on an annual Halloween event called the Family Fall Festival (FFF) that over the years had grown to be quite an undertaking involving hundreds of volunteers, thousands of pounds of candy and thousands of people in attendance. And for all-intention purposes was a pretty successful event in the life of our church.

However, in recent years we have not had this event and it is a good thing. I will explain shortly, however let me first explain what I have deemed as some positives of the event in years past.

1. It served as a great way to introduce ourselves to the community. In 1997 we relocated our church t and with a name change to our church in 1998 we were new and relatively unfamiliar. This event served as great way to introduce ourselves by providing a “give” community event completely free to all participants. I liken the FFF to a better, more strategic open house. I have been a part of a church open house in the past where over 50,000 direct mail pieces were sent to neighbors to come and check out the newly built church in their area. In an eight-hour span -- I believe 50 people showed up -- with the majority of the people being attendees of the church who wanted to get an early look at the property.
2. It served as a great invite opportunity for our church. Whereas inviting people to a weekend service may have been a little more risky -- inviting friends to a free event for their kids where they were sure to get tons of candy and participate in a whole slew of games and rides was a no brainer. It also gave to our guests a positive first impression of Journey or maybe church all together.
3. It mobilized people into action. For many their serving at the FFF on a one time basis was the first step to committing to an on-going serving role. 

Now there were many other positives, but these were the main ones that stood out. Now like most things -- terms lose meaning over time and practices lose its effectiveness over time. Such as the case I believe with the FFF.

Now here are some of the main reasons why I feel not having this event anymore is a good thing.

1. After about 5th year we did this event in the La Mesa community we were pretty well established as a presence in the area. So if the purpose was to introduce ourselves to the community this was no longer necessary.
2. The crowd that we were drawing changed. More and more this became a Christian community event versus an outreach event. It was not uncommon to see another church bus show up to drop of its members. In fact one church pastor (of a huge church in the area) said that they actually copied our flier and put in their church program to encourage his members to attend our event. Now I am all for events that unite the big C church and I am all for serving other churches -- yet this was not the purpose and focus of the event.
3. Volunteer involvement continually decreased. Now this is no reason to stop an event yet some of the reasoning for is valid. Often people chose to do an event in their own neighborhood (expect a follow-up post on this)
4. Overall effectiveness was in question. Though some have acknowledged that the FFF was the initial introduction to our church, over the years these stories have become less frequent. In addition I also believe seekers are changing as well and these methods do not necessarily address where they may be.

7/11 Vintage Us

This weekend Oct. 29 & 31 we will be presenting the 7th out of the 11 messages scheduled for the series Vintage Us.  Now that we are just past the half way point it gives me opportunity to try reinvision us for the rest of the series. Often times in a longer series (6 weeks or more) we can hit a lull in our inviting as well as our attending efforts.

So I hope these thoughts will stir some thought in you.

First, we have 5 great weekends left a list of those specific messages are below.  And if you are new t the series click here for a series description.

October 29 & 31:  Full Disclosure — Suffering and Persecution (Acts 5b, 7 & 8)
November 5 & 7:  Leaders-R-Us — God Invites You to Lead (Acts 6)
November 12 & 14:  The End of Exclusion, Part One — Godʼs Inclusive Vision (Acts 15)
November 19 & 21: The End of Exclusion, Part Two — Godʼs Expansive Community (Acts 15)
November 28:  The End of Exclusion, Part Three — The Core that Pulls Us In (Acts 15)

Second, I know that the programming team are prayerfully bringing their best efforts to craft services, that are fresh, Biblically relevant, creative and mindful of our spiritually seeking friends -- all this to say that services will be well done and you can be confident in your inviting efforts.

Third, we want to continue be mindful that lost people matter to God and that those around us need him more than ever.

All this to say hope to see you this weekend and be sure to bring someone with you!

The "Little" & "Extra" Things Matter

The little and extra things matter -- especially in planning events.  I was reminded of this, this past Friday when I had lunch with a friend.  He is someone who has been coming to our church and due to exstensive travel that his work requires is still looking for a way to get more involved.

Every time we meet he brings with him a puzzle piece that was given out in one of our services a couple of years ago.  He says he keeps it on his dresser to remind him that he is has piece to play in the life of our church -- which was the intent of giving out those to every attendee that weekend.

 
Lest, you think these gestures, atleast in the church world, is for new people or people young in their faith journey.  Keep this in mind ...  this is someone who has been to his share of church services over his life time and is very familiary with churches.  You possibly have one his father's books in your home or you atleast know someone who does.  Yet for this seasoned believer a little thing like a puzzle piece is being used in a very meaningful way.

So as you plan an event or service, keep in mind that those, seemingly, simple extras do make a difference!

Journey "Community"

Today I began my 15th year on staff at Journey Community Church with an all-staff community outreach at San Miguel Elementary School in Lemon Grove.  We gave our time normally dedicated to our staff devotions and weekend programming meeting to clean out and organize a teachers resource center that has been needing some attention for 10 years.  Do to budget cuts, staff reductions and limited funding what we may consider normal operational tasks are now luxuries. 

This is a first of what will be many opportunities to serve our neighboring communities.  Specifically we are building a long-term relationship with this school under the great leadership Principal Heidi Bergerner (pictured below in the center) that you will be hearing more about in the near future.

 

And what is true in almost every instance where we live beyond ourselves and for others, that those serving not necessarily the recipients are the ones who benefit the most and are grateful for the experience.

Our team did an incredible job! And our team was incredibly energized, already asking when the next team outing will be.

San Miguel Elementary is considered at Title 1 school with a good portion of children coming from families of under-resourced means.

Thank You GLS 044 Team -- Better Late Than Never

After going AWOL on my blog for the months of July and August and arguably most of the year -- I have started to re-engage in September.  What I missed most about blogging is having that outlet to express what was going on in my life -- even if for only the benefit of myself being able to process my thoughts.

Exactly one month ago today our church hosted a two-day world class leadership training event The Global Leadership Summit (GLS).  We are one of over 200 sights across North America that hosted this event with over 60,000 in total attendance.  We have been serving as the host site for the past seven years and I am incredibly grateful to be able to be apart of the team that puts the event on -- which is  primarily by volunteers who take vacation time for three days (this includes an event prep day) to serve local church participants in the area.

Under the leadership of our on-site event mananger (OEM) Alex Layson to say our team does an unbelievable job hosting event would be an understatement.  We never do any recruiting of team members, most recommit for the next year at the end of the current year's GLS.  And we have also managed to decrease the actual amount of volunteers needed to pull off the event so more of them experience the GLS as participants and at the same time not compromise our excellence in serving.

So I know this is a month late, I hope the notion better late than never applies here, so as the lead pastor for the GLS Site 044 I owe you a heart-felt thank you -- I truly do hold you in the highest regards! 

I Thessalonians 5:12, 13 "We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work."

The Best Type of Interruption

I tend to keep a pretty full schedule and I am completely lost without a watch (that is set at least 5 minutes ahead).  And within the time blocks I have I try to get the most of out of my minutes.   So as a general rule, I do not like interruptions of any type.  One setting where I try to keep particularly focused is during my workouts.  On occasion people may recognize me from a church and want to chat, which immediately I begin to look at the clock hoping the conversation can wrap up in between sets -- which is never the case. 

Sometimes I get lucky that Ed Noble, our teaching pastor, is working out at the same time and I usually say something like this, "You know Ed is working out at that station over there and I am sure he would love for you to say hi."  Which usually does the trick.  People gladly talk to the pastor instead of the occasional weekend host.

I always smile walking by Ed as he engages the other person still some 15-20 minutes later.

Yeah, I know I am a bad person.

Yet if there is an interruption that I welcome -- it is when someone "briefly" shares what God is doing in their life.  Now as much as I love hearing the big praise stories where we hear God do something miraculous or where God intervenes in some possible life-altering situation -- the best type of stories, for me, is when people share everyday life situations where they take seemingly simple steps of obedience or follow through on a gentle prompting of the Spirit.

In recent weeks, on a couple of occasions, I left 24 Hour Fitness (Temecula, where I normally workout : ) very encouraged as someone shared with me these two incidents:

1. After hearing the message on Sunday this person felt prompted to lead the Pop Warner football team he helps coach in prayer before the game.  He shared how nervous he felt about approaching the parents and coaches about praying for good sportsmanship and safety for the kids.  And when he did ask for permission how cool it was thatl the parents were so grateful that this gesture was being made.  Now they pray before every game!

2. After an altercation with a fellow coach, instead of going into a full blown argument, he decided to walk away recognizing that the outcomes might have taken him to place where he simply did want to go.  He shared that God has done so much in his life the last thing he wanted to do was go back to behavior reminiscent of old and just as well be forgotten lifestyle.  So though he may have lost the argument, he gained the knowledge of God's continual working in his life.

These two situations may not be earth shattering, but they are the situations where God is doing some of his most tranformative work.  I don't know about you, but I have a lot easier time trusting God with "big" things of life versus the everyday.  Jesus himself said that the process of following Him is an incremental, daily practice -- Luke 23 ESV says ... And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

What is MONVEE?

There is still time to sign up for the Journey Early Engagment MONVEE gathering this Sunday July 11 at 10:30am.  To register,  e-mail your name, mobile number and intention to attend to [email protected].

Here is a preview of what MONVEE is

MONVEE is Coming to Journey

MONVEE is coming to Journey!

Todd Tolson, shared a couple a weeks ago at a weekend service, one of his responsibilities as our discipleship pastor is to look for innovative and fresh ways to help us connect with God.

Last year he submitted an application for Journey Community Church to be a beta-church and over the past 7 months we have been rolling out MONVEE in its beta form in the life of our church primarily through our staff and leadership. 

To under-gird the philosophy behind the tool we have showed parts of the MONVEE simulcast (that took place earlier in the year ) in 4 gatherings with anywhere from 15 to 70 in attendance that featured teaching from the likes of John Ortberg, Dallas Wilard and MONVEE co-founder Mark Bankord and Eric Parks to name a few

The feedback has been incredibly positive! 

The assessment has been spot on! 

In addition there have been quite a few surprises where people discovered new things about themselves and uncovered areas of struggle where change and growth are needed.  We purposely had participants be from all stages of life, young and old, married, single, divorced to get a good sampling of feedback.

Now that MONVEE is out of its beta-phase we are excited to offer MONVEE to Journey, to anyone who has a passion to grow in their relationship with God & others; those with an entrepreneurial spirit; and or those who want to be an early adopter in the future of spiritual formation.

So what is MONVEE?  That is what you will discover at the MONVEE gathering on Sunday July 11.  To register go to Guest Services this weekend or e-mail your name, e-mail and mobile number to [email protected].   A flier like this one will be in the church program this weekend.

In addition John Ortberg's newest book "The Me I Want to Be"  (available in our bookstore was written in conjunction with MONVEE and is a great resource to get a better grasp on the importance of hand-crafted spiritual growth.  Those who attend the MONVEE gathering will be able to purchase this book at special price.  

Totally Pumped for the GLS!/ Summit Weekend @JOURNEY

Here is a recent tweet by one of the speakers at this year's Global Leadership Summit (GLS) taking place on Thursday and Friday August 5 & 6.

This was tweeted by the legendary former General Electric CEO Jack Welch, whom many regard as one the greatest CEO's & business leaders of our time, shortly after filming the video cast that will be presented at the GLS.

When I saw this ... it totally pumped me up for an event I am already excited about!  I have been to 12 out of the previous 14 summit experiences either at the Willow Creek Community Church campus (where the event is broadcast from) and at satellite sites.  The two years I missed I have listened to every message on tape and CD.  I cannot overstate how this world-class leadership training event has impacted my life and ministry!

This will be our 7th year in hosting this event as the San Diego Host Site (summit site 044).  In addition we have played a critical role in helping make this leadership training event more accessible to leaders throughout San Diego County by helping launch two new summit sites in Oceanside and Murrieta.  Both respective churches hosting these sites have brought big teams to our location in years past.

At the end of this two-day experience I am left with two thoughts. One being of excitement with all the fresh learnings that need to be processed and then lived out; Two one of discontent looking around the room knowing that more people should have been here -- many I know by name specifically from our church.  I have yet to meet a person who has attended the GLS saying "what a waste time."  Instead the extreme opposite has been true -- they only comment on what an incredibly life-changing event this was.

So for those of you still not convinced to attend.  For the second year now we are holding what is referred to as "Summit Sunday," where we give you a taste of the GLS experience by presenting one of the highest rated summit talks from previous years.

 

This years talk is "Shadow Mission" by author of The Me I Want to Be by John Ortberg.  We will be presenting this message alongside a great run of worship songs. I have no doubt that after hearing this message you will be compelled to register for this event.  Please note that this is the last weekend you can register at the best host site rate. Be sure to stop by the GLS table after each of our three services.

Weekend Update: "Service Change Alert!"

There is an old Christian/Church saying, "Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be broken."  I share this because for the second time in as many weeks there has been a change to the service content for this June 4 & 6 Weekend.  Originally this weekend was slated as a stand alone message, taking a break from our God at the Movies series.  Then last weekend we announced that we be adding to the movie UP to the line up this weekend. 

However, there is has been yet one more change.  Ed Noble back from his five-day visit to Haiti felt compelled and lead to share about his experience there, while his thoughts, feelings and impressions are very fresh.  For a preview of what he may be sharing check out his blog Ed's journey.  Also joining him will be author/speaker Mark (Marko) Oestreicher who was apart of the recent trip.

God at the Movies will be resuming next weekend with the scheduled movie Crazy Heart.

Weekend Update: Memorial Weekend Edition

As we are entering into Memorial Day Weekend, if your travels do not take you out of town or if you are visiting San Diego be sure to join us this weekend at Journey Community Church for God at the Movies. 

We are at the midway point of the series looking at the movie Avatar -- the Oscar nominated and highest grossing film of all time.  We cannot overstate what a great opportunity it is to invite people to church -- for three weekends in a row we have run out of programs, invite cards are available at Guest Services.

After service there is still time to sign up for The Global Leadership Summit at the best host-site rates.  Be sure to read the program insert and register at the Guest Services.  And another great opportunity is to sign-up to be baptized at our first church-wide baptism of the year taking place on Sunday June 13.  There is a brief orientation class takes place immediately after service on the upper-riser area of the worship center for those who plan to go public with their faith.

Also being that is Memorial Day Weekend, be sure to take time during the course of the weekend to lift up 
prayers of gratitude for those who have given their lives in service of our country protecting the freedoms that we can often take for granted; and to lift up prayers on behalf of the men and women who are serving all across the globe in the various branches of the military.

Next weekend we are including one more film in the God at the Movies series.  Originally, we had the June 4 & 6 slated as a special stand alone message to put a break in the series.  Instead we are including the other highly voted on people's choice movie -- UP.  For a complete break down of the series go to godathemovies.net.

(500) Days of Summer featured at New Format God at the Movies series

I believe most guys have been in this situation where you enter a relationship with a girl believing there is incredible promise for a long term relationship (or at least that is what you hope) only to be disappointed or should I say brokenhearted because the feelings are not reciprocated.  Often times it is our own fault that we, as the guy, find ourselves in this situation because the girl is upfront with her desire to "just be friends."  Yet despite that knowledge, we still move forward hoping that those gestures and interactions, which from her perspective are purely on a friendship level, has the possibility to build to something more serious.

Now that is one of the key story lines of (500) Days of Summer.  I absolutely loved this film, along with Whip It and Up In the Air, were my favorite movies of 2009 and I am excited that I get to speak from this movie at New Format this Sunday (5/30) at their series God at the Movies.

In preparation for this message here are some potential spiritual themes that I am thinking about addressing ,but I would love to get your input on other potential insights.   Please let me know.

• Is there such a thing as love?
• What does mean to be right, but just not right for you?
• The environment we are in affects everything ... our outlook on life, relationships etc.
• What it means to be happy for others, when it comes at a cost to us.
• All things work together for good, for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
• Our thoughts are not His thoughts.

Again any insights you have gleaned from this movie would be greatly appreciated.