tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35634710243835352292024-02-21T03:33:47.639-08:00Simple MinistryMy thoughts around faith, life, and ministryKylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-62220485422159407372015-03-30T22:19:00.000-07:002015-03-31T11:40:43.440-07:00Mad at God<h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_u2sh73HQQkPRs2-R3nh2qjdV7y3tg9Zt_IKQmjm7LhG49DTIqKgBNB0tJ5Dve3XzX_FWM9kFbaBUdIdtgO50ghM8dMLPN4k8oUOwa1ydJ5E3wRonE7Q1iIFqHScgOTN8jchcv6LrhzE/s1600/Psalm+139-4.001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_u2sh73HQQkPRs2-R3nh2qjdV7y3tg9Zt_IKQmjm7LhG49DTIqKgBNB0tJ5Dve3XzX_FWM9kFbaBUdIdtgO50ghM8dMLPN4k8oUOwa1ydJ5E3wRonE7Q1iIFqHScgOTN8jchcv6LrhzE/s1600/Psalm+139-4.001.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"I was pretty mad with God" I said.</span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was telling a story to a friend, a story that for me was full of challenges, stress, mountaintop moments and intense disappointment. I was mad at God, because I thought things should go one way but they ended up going another.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I continued saying "And I told him about it!" I was frustrated, angry and tired and I felt like I had to be honest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today I read an article from Relevant Magazine (you can read it by clicking <a href="http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/practical-faith/stop-performing-god">here.</a>) It was a good article about the fact that we don't have to have to perform for God. BUT I wish it would go a little bit further.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish as a Christian culture we would acknowledge something. That it's okay to be mad, and God knows when we are mad, so why don't we express it? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do we think we are being better or more "spiritual" by not truly being open with our feelings? By pretending that everything can be defined by the Christian 'F-Word'.... FINE!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I sometimes wonder if God is frustrated or even offended by our lack of openness with Him because as we know before a word is on the tongue God knows it (Psalm 139:4). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have found, that when I have expressed my true feelings to God, I can move on quicker. No things don't necessarily get better... but I can process my feelings and often as I process things, with Gods help, I can start to understand what I need to learn or see.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I want to challenge you, next time you are feeling something asides from "FINE", why don't you be honest and talk to God about what is really going on.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-22678791235609250252015-03-29T17:12:00.003-07:002015-03-29T17:12:59.459-07:00Energizing An Initiative<h2>
Want people to get excited about something?</h2>
<h3>
Get some kids and youth involved! </h3>
<div>
Yesterday our Student Ministry (for students grades 8-12) baked goodies for a baking fundraiser for our new building project. They came together for 3 hours and baked up a storm, and then today after our church service they gave their goods away by donation. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
People young and old were eating it up (pun intended). They thought it was so cool that our students were involved in this project so they wanted to support it. In fact they raised a couple hundred dollars more what I had projected for us to raise. And this was because our students were excited about what they did and their excitement for the project was contagious.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm pretty sure anyone wanted to bring excitement to a campaign, cause or initiative of any kind, if they just found a few young and energetic people who were passionate about the cause and then brought them on board they would have far greater success than they originally projected.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So think about it, how do you incorporate young people in what you do?</div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-3393143070673505232015-03-26T22:48:00.000-07:002015-03-26T22:48:06.229-07:00Relationships and Authority<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1phL8QeYfkKnJsGMIuLVkCx2udGtjWrThqF2QaUDq_oH-sqNSCJG7LqySJ-lvslLnfZtfgjjawOC5MdIt6gBWd2tzVLpO_CbvJD5EiJaoHID0VBT79oOHaBD0ogxjjhq_rcaZJ0_mqGA/s1600/Relationships+are+more+powerful+than+authority.001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1phL8QeYfkKnJsGMIuLVkCx2udGtjWrThqF2QaUDq_oH-sqNSCJG7LqySJ-lvslLnfZtfgjjawOC5MdIt6gBWd2tzVLpO_CbvJD5EiJaoHID0VBT79oOHaBD0ogxjjhq_rcaZJ0_mqGA/s1600/Relationships+are+more+powerful+than+authority.001.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
My favourite teacher I ever had was Mr. Wolff. The funny thing was that not only was he my favourite teacher, he was also the teacher who was hardest on me. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was in Mr. Wolffs class that I pushed myself to take on huge assignments and actually not misbehave for once. And why did I do it? Because Mr. Wolff influenced me through relationships. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mr. Wolff would often come out at recess and lunchtime to play soccer with us, or hang out on the playground. That is what made him such an awesome teacher. He created relationships with his students and that made him well loved. But beyond his students loving him, we respected him because he invested in us outside of the classroom. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today I read an article in the "Leadership Journal" you can check out the article <a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2011/summer/spiritualfather.html?share=9gN2sgy1dlDBzf6d/7frd3grmCgHbevH" target="_blank">here</a>. The premise was the fact that there is a difference between how Baby Boomers and Millenials react to pastoral leadership. I think it goes beyond pastoral leadership to how these generations view leadership in general.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Baby Boomers often tend to respect positions, education, and ultimately authority. Whereas Millenials respect relationships, authenticity and action. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Are either of these groups wrong? I don't think so. I think that it is important to respect those in positions above ours, we can learn from those with higher educations and we need to respect our authorities, however leaders need to invest in relationships, live authentic lives, and not simply waste their position rather they need to put things into action. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But when it comes to leadership dynamics I think that relationships are more powerful than authority. If you want people to follow you, you have to create relationships. If people are forced into following you because of your position they will do so, but not with the same passion and drive as if they are following you out of a relationship. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm still working on this, how do I intentionally create relationships so that people will want to follow me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What ways do you lead through relationship?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-89526154757788492092015-03-23T23:09:00.000-07:002015-03-23T23:09:36.401-07:00Causing a RuckusDo you know anyone who is just always causing a ruckus? They can never seem to just simmer down and are always causing a scene. I hope I can be like that<br />
<br />
I just finished reading Seth Godin's book "Tribes". It was a quick but insightful read about being the leader of a tribe of people. In it Seth examines some of the qualities of people who lead tribes amongst many other things.<br />
<br />
One of the characteristics of a leader of a tribe is they cause ruckuses. Some people even refer to them as "heretics". Now as a pastor I don't want to be defined as a heretic, but I certainly don't mind creating a bit of a ruckus.<br />
<br />
As I thought more and more about it, I began to realize that I can sometimes become confined. Sometimes by limits placed upon me, but often by limitations I place myself. And I can identify the barriers but for a number of reasons I don't move them or overcome them.<br />
<br />
But then a started thinking about great examples of leaders of the Christian faith, starting simply with Jesus. Jesus was always causing a ruckus. He would make scenes, and do things against the status quo. He would infuriate people, and do unspeakable things... but he did it because he wanted, nay, he needed them to follow him. He needed to live an example of what it meant to live in relationship with God. He lived a life that was countercultural to show us what is Godcultural (yeah I made that word up).<br />
<br />
And so if I am going to be a follower of Jesus; and more than that; if I am going to be a pastor bringing people to Jesus, I need to start a ruckus.<br />
<br />
So this week I am working on a couple new projects. They are a little out there and in some cases will stretch myself and other people. But I think they are going to cause a scene. I think they are going to get peoples attention. And the hope is that through these things people start to see Jesus through me in a new way, and start to follow him.<br />
<br />
Care to join me?Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-44011091887322350322015-03-22T22:28:00.001-07:002015-03-22T22:28:26.861-07:00I'm Amazing<h3>
& five other things we should be saying</h3>
<b>1.</b> <b>I'm Amazin</b>g because of how I am created (Genesis 1:27)<br />
<b>2.</b> <b>I'm Rich </b>because of what I have recieved<br />
<b>3.</b> <b>I'm loved</b> and nothing can stop that(Romans 8: 37-39)<br />
<b>4.</b> <b>I will never be good enough </b><u>but that doesn't matter</u><b> </b>(Romans 5:8)<br />
<b>5. I have been made new </b>(2 Corinthians 5:17)<br />
<b>6. I can endure anything </b>because He gives me the strength to be able to (Phillipians 4:13)Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-52420241387998892312015-03-21T21:18:00.001-07:002015-03-21T21:18:54.213-07:00A tale of two thieves<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKhxYDk-wvmdG2ElI_WSOehk1BdqxqYEYTATVQog4y655ec6PYtymG_MmTc1EImZsVqdehMgy4MXg7t8ojBIg-iJ8eRu-c2A8gr2ZJ25FL03uexNLXQZZDbFxaBV4Lv07FeBKJUFGaPY/s1600/theft-clipart-burglar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKhxYDk-wvmdG2ElI_WSOehk1BdqxqYEYTATVQog4y655ec6PYtymG_MmTc1EImZsVqdehMgy4MXg7t8ojBIg-iJ8eRu-c2A8gr2ZJ25FL03uexNLXQZZDbFxaBV4Lv07FeBKJUFGaPY/s1600/theft-clipart-burglar.jpg" height="320" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A possible rendering of our local thief?!?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Earlier today my wife was at a local gym drop-in with our daughter. As she was leaving she noticed her wallet was missing. She looked all around and then realised it had been stolen.<br />
<br />
Now we live in what is generally seen as a super safe neighbourhood. Lots of people in our area don't lock their houses, they leave their cars on the street running, and don't worry about leaving bikes unlocked while they run into the coffee shop. But today it caught up with us.<br />
<br />
Within minutes the thief had bought $125 in gas, but fortunately that's all they got, my wife took care of everything like a machine.<br />
<br />
Before this I had only had one thing ever stolen from me, a Bible off the roof of my car, which kind of made me happy because I thought that if they were stealing a Bible they could probably use it.<br />
<br />
But it made me think about all the times I have stolen.<br />
<br />
GASP!! SHOCK!!! HORROR!!! KYLE IS A THIEF!!!!<br />
<br />
Hold on a sec and hear me out. I am a pretty upstanding citizen but earlier this week I did accidentally steal some food from Safeway. I gave my daughter a snack as we walked through the grocery store and I forgot about her eating it while I went through the check stand. BUT I do plan on paying for it next time I go back!<br />
<br />
But I think when it comes to being a thief it often comes in the form of stealing of time from my family and friends. Last week I wrote about how I need to work on putting down my phone and technology to spend time with my family, and it's something I am working on. I have been intentionally putting my cell phone in the other room occasionally so I won't even be tempted to pick it up, but at the same time I have failed by looking at something and not hearing what Amy said, or not been paying full attention to Skye.<br />
<br />
The thing that has really struck me is in this time not only am I robbing them of time with me, but I am robbing myself. Since I have been working on putting things down I have had more laughs because I've seen my hilarious daughter putting on a show. I've been happier in my marriage because I am connecting more with my wife.<br />
<br />
So with that being said I am going to encourage you, figure out what you are stealing from and give back.... and now I'm going to run and spend some time with my wife!Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-66918505857996153632015-03-18T14:54:00.000-07:002015-03-18T14:54:37.459-07:00Are you a conservationist?<h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxm0A52m8XzBxzX4mdzZOybBnju_nyptOaDmWeDcZhiczm8JLN8bC8RzCb3EmuVnQGAzyhNZDRGO50eo2BsIhGx1Swuwb-6rbhF64D1qIVwtlTdRAJQBZ2EfXa1s04hVDQEXG-t3IEXPw/s1600/Pass-It-On1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxm0A52m8XzBxzX4mdzZOybBnju_nyptOaDmWeDcZhiczm8JLN8bC8RzCb3EmuVnQGAzyhNZDRGO50eo2BsIhGx1Swuwb-6rbhF64D1qIVwtlTdRAJQBZ2EfXa1s04hVDQEXG-t3IEXPw/s1600/Pass-It-On1.png" height="200" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"A true conservationist is one who knows that the world is not given by one's fathers but borrowed from one's children"</span> -John Audubon</div>
</span></h3>
<div>
I read these words as I walked through the latest exhibit at the Vancouver Aquarium, and it got me to thinking, "Does that apply to our faith?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I believe: One's faith cannot simply be inherited but it can be squandered.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Many people believe that you can become a Christian simply because you grew up with it; but the truth is that you cannot; not even a little bit. Sure, you could identify yourself as a Christian; you can go to church or read a Bible but those things don't make you a follower of Jesus. To be a Christian you have to actually make a decision to follow Jesus, you have to acknowledge who he was, what he accomplished and then set him up as your Master and Chief... You have to become an actual follower of His and devote your life to chasing after his example and growing in your relationship with Him. (Incase you were wondering, yes us Christians believe Jesus is God)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So we cannot inherit our faith not from our father, not from our mother, but we can squander it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One can squander their faith both for themselves and for their children. The Christian faith is meant to be lived out. We are hardwired to have a relationship with God, and through that relationship we experience many things. We experience hope, joy, peace, love, contentment, understanding, wisdom and forgiveness. However, just because we experience these things doesn't mean that we can just sit in a bubble and all is well and good. We are taught that we need to live these things out. We are supposed to be sharing the hope, joy, peace, love, contentment, understanding, wisdom and forgiveness we receive. And in fact, it is often through the sharing of these things that we actually receive even more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The sad fact is that a lot of Christians make a profession of faith one day, and then sometime thereafter sit back and forget about what it means to be a Christian. We are supposed to spend our time tirelessly devoted to following Jesus and being examples of him to others.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This idea that we need to be examples of Jesus comes into play in an even more significant way when we become parents. Deuteronomy 4:9 says "teach what you have seen and heard to your children and grandchildren." Just like the Earth we need to conserve for future generations, we need to conserve our faith. Studies have shown time and time again that the best way for a child to learn to accept Jesus and follow after him for life is to have a parent that lives it out. Children whose parents live lives with their faith as a daily part of it, are shown to have greater commitment to their own faith later on in life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I guess the question I have for myself and for you is: "Are you being a conservationist of your faith?"</div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-57581157457550264792015-03-13T12:23:00.000-07:002015-03-13T12:26:29.189-07:00Doing what you are supposed to<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJ_F-twMq8UQwHU_zJBjsaw8WqT36zYr4_Lo9hUImY3T8nMhTK1gkGqp-5wIcGZl4D_2vpeoEg_cS-ugBI7idupBjdYM_qyeeAb1O-OxG2LPI2xBcE4w3hmtfbOrQ-5CyCmVC-aQriLc/s1600/Is+there+something+you+should+be+doing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxJ_F-twMq8UQwHU_zJBjsaw8WqT36zYr4_Lo9hUImY3T8nMhTK1gkGqp-5wIcGZl4D_2vpeoEg_cS-ugBI7idupBjdYM_qyeeAb1O-OxG2LPI2xBcE4w3hmtfbOrQ-5CyCmVC-aQriLc/s1600/Is+there+something+you+should+be+doing.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romans 12: 4-7.....If you should be doing something <br />
you better do it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">"Therefore, I urge you,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28247A" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28247A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28247B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28247B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Romans 12:1</span></span><br />
<br />
<h2>
Have you ever felt like there was something that you were supposed to do but weren't?</h2>
<br />
Over the past year I have been sitting in a space feeling like there is something that I should be doing but wasn't... I have been on a long, emotional, tiring, stressful and exciting journey. It has put me and my family through the ringer but we know that God has given me some gifts which I haven't been using. We know that God has hardwired me with some ways of worship, which I have not been doing. I have also been learning that I am a creative. I may not be a creative with art but I am a creative with thoughts and words.<br />
<br />
So I have found some things that I need to do it so I am going to do them. Here is my list-<br />
<br />
<h3>
<u><i>5 Things I need to start or reincorporate into my life:</i></u></h3>
1) <b>Putting God first</b>: <b><u>This is a never ending battle.</u></b> Making sure that God is first in my life and making sure I invest in my time with Him. I need to give God the best of my time, not the leftovers.<br />
<br />
2) <b>Put my family second</b>: Often times my work, my thoughts, my laziness, my distractions come between me and my family. <u>That should never happen <b>EVER</b></u>. With Baby #2 due on May 5, I know that I need to spend some serious time refocusing and reorganizing my priorities to make sure I give my family the attention they need and deserve. I am slowly learning to put down my technology, leave work at work, and I hope I keep getting better at it.<br />
<br />
3) <b>Learning</b>: One thing I am learning is that I need to a) read and to b) write. But I need to do these things in the best possible way.<br />
a)I need to read things that will fill me up and inspire me, less Facebook and Buzzfeed articles. I need more Bible, and books that will inspire my faith, leadership and creativity.<br />
b) I need to write as an expression of who I am and what I am learning. I am an information junkie but I need to write to process what I take in, otherwise it is all for not.<br />
<br />
4) <b>Preaching/Teaching</b>: I started in ministry know that I loved to see people come to faith and I longed to help them grow in their personal journey with God. What I have learned is that God has given me the gifts of preaching, creating and teaching. I need to live this beautiful gifting out, or I am throwing away what God gave me.<br />
<br />
5)<b>Living differently</b>: There are two things I don't do enough of in my life.<br />
1) Exercise! This is probably a common one for people like me, those of us who default to reading and love to eat. But I am learning that I am more bearable as a human being when I exercise. I also kind of like it when I do it. So I am challenging myself to do it a little more often, and hope it becomes a lot more often. Sure I could stand to lose a couple more pounds, but I could stand to gain a vibrancy of life even more.<br />
2) Bring people into my life- It's really easy for me to have superficial relationships or just depend on the deep ones I already have, but I truly love people. I love talking to them, laughing with them and even just watching and studying them. I hope that this next stint of life I bring more beautiful people into my life.<br />
<br />Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-16493029846140899062013-06-27T01:00:00.000-07:002013-06-27T01:00:18.031-07:00Giving DignityLast night I sat with a friend eating some gelato in an area called Gastown. Which is only a couple blocks from East Hastings street on the Downtown East side of Vancouver. An area infamous world wide for being an awful place. As we sat we discussed everything from childhood memories to poverty. As we discussed poverty we got down to causes, issues and the nature of poverty in our city. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sitting there a woman named Sharon came up and asked if she could talk to us. I welcomed her to our table and shook her hand introducing myself, and my friend did the same.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As we began talking she explained the hardships she was facing, and what her night most certainly looked like. She asked for some financial relief of her situation. It is a place I have found myself often, and a place where I do not feel comfortable helping.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I have two ways in which I will help:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) I'd be happy to help them find resources to help them out (to which she had already explained she had exhausted) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2) I would be more than happy to chat with them over a meal. My way to provide brief companionship and some nourishment. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sharon was not interested in what I had to offer so she moved on. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As we sat there I thought to myself, Sharon is a hurting person. Sharon likely had an illness, addiction or a social situation which lent aid to put her in the place she is. But none of those things prevents us from giving dignity to her. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Jesus Christ constantly reminds his disciples and us through these words that it is important to love others as He loves us. And I believe a place where we need to start is out of a place of giving dignity and respect to those who don't have it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is in these moments that we can share the love and heart of Christ. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I will be honest, there are times when I am frustrated by the number of people asking me for money. There are times when the thought that the individual probably put themselves there crosses my mind. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But have to remember that I never deserved the love of Christ. I have done nothing to deserve dignity and respect of others in many cases outside of being a creation of God. And people no matter who they are, whether Sharon on the streets or the Queen of England deserve 2 things. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) To know that Jesus loves them</div>
<div>
2) To know that they are created in the image of God and because of that; they have worth and deserve dignity and respect.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So when you meet someone this week who is needing some dignity and love, would you open up your heart and give them a moment. And I guarantee if you look for them, you will find them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-32450778290452992432013-06-19T11:33:00.002-07:002013-06-19T11:33:52.304-07:00How Superman is like JesusIf you have not had the chance to see the new movie "MAN OF STEEL" you may not want to continue reading this blog post. If you don't care about spoilers you have been forewarned.<br />
<br />
********SPOILER ALERT******************<br />
*****************************************<br />
<br />
This past weekend I went with my wife's side of the family to see Man of Steel for my Brother-in laws birthday and for Fathers day. I thought the movie was overall pretty good outside of a little too much fast action with special effects. But I loved the relational context they put Superman in for this film.<br />
<br />
They made Superman like Jesus. Without saying it they threw in a whole bunch of allegorical and visual references.<br />
<br />
Let me give you a little of the rundown.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0DLyyaqE3sTVdFfjJcuZnTaXnZCOEYz3rUIik8AEC2EUQzZPfKSrvAZTWAPzEWQNuyvjDYGPcOtN91mukSyg1pu6OwPUkK7wBaxCzteyLgW4JlY9Lc0YyQy6GvlULe6J2twanr4tOGQ/s1600/Man-of-steel-Christ-pose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0DLyyaqE3sTVdFfjJcuZnTaXnZCOEYz3rUIik8AEC2EUQzZPfKSrvAZTWAPzEWQNuyvjDYGPcOtN91mukSyg1pu6OwPUkK7wBaxCzteyLgW4JlY9Lc0YyQy6GvlULe6J2twanr4tOGQ/s320/Man-of-steel-Christ-pose.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
1) He is not from this world but was sent by his father to bring hope and salvation for humanity.<br />
<br />
2) He grows in Strength and wisdom, even though it was always inherently within him<br />
<br />
3) The symbol on Superman's chest is not an 'S' rather it means hope. How about the wounds Jesus carries as a symbol of hope.<br />
<br />
4) Superman wins over the bad guy because of his love for humanity. God defeats Satan as a show of power and love.<br />
<br />
5) Just watch the movie and look in the background as Superman is in a church posing just like Jesus, or how about when he stretches his arms out like Christ on a cross. This movie has some many visuals that bring that to the forefront of our minds.<br />
<br />
<br />
I really loved how they did this. It wasn't overt and in your face, but it was subtle and can send a powerful image. I love when you can take pieces of Hollywood and use them for teaching people about Christ!<br />
<br />
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-41305957811260777572013-04-12T23:27:00.000-07:002013-04-12T23:27:25.236-07:00Building Social CreditThis week I read a blog post to do with building "social credit". I wish I remembered which blog roll it was on so I could share it but I am afraid I do not. I am assuming it is <a href="http://www.morethandodgeball.com/" target="_blank">morethandodgeball</a> because I spend a lot of time there, both writing and learning.<br />
<br />
Anyways, the idea of social credit is that students listen and understand what you talk about when you build up a reputation with them. The only way to build that reputation is through spending time with them in a meaningful and social way.<br />
<br />
I believe this dynamic works for youth workers, high school teachers and even parents. By putting in time with students in a neutral setting where you can be yourselves together, you build a positive relationship. And well, you earn a credit.<br />
<br />
I am not saying the only reason we spend time with students is to earn credit, but it is a byproduct of doing so.<br />
<br />
Tonight I brought a group of girls to play a game at a local coffee shop (JJ bean), in order to meet a new potential student. It was a lot of fun and was a good introduction for the new student. Afterwards I also headed out to a soccer game 3 students were playing in. It was an awesome experience because I got to cheer on the girls, and socialize with their parents at the same time.<br />
<br />
I was reminded while driving home; by a gentle nudge at my spirit; that it was the right thing to do and I need to keep on doing it.<br />
<br />
I hope that if you are a youth worker, teacher or parent reading this that you are encouraged to spend some time with a student or your kid, just being together. It will make you feel great, and have a positive impact on that persons life.Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-6306072677339431032013-02-13T16:51:00.002-08:002013-02-13T16:51:40.811-08:00The Church is bleeding outI just finished reading a study done in Canada called Hemorrhaging faith. The hope of the study was to understand "why & when Canadian young adults are leaving, staying and returning to the Church."<span style="font-family: MyriadPro; font-size: 20pt;"></span><br />
Now my assumption is that the information contained within the study could be fairly accurate in the US as well (perhaps different percentages but our teens are very similar).<br />
<br />
The study in my mind has no unknown information, but it packages it quite well and helps us extrapolate some thoughts that may have been blurry.<br />
<br />
It seems evident when we talk about young people and church, that we need to talk about the church getting smaller. But what we forget to talk about is not why or how we can control the bleeding, but rather how can we increase the numbers not keep them from leaving.<br />
<br />
As a Church (universal) we have tackled issues such as "church is too feminine", "what type of music should we play", "church is to masculine". But what about the issue that church is not a place where young people feel connected.<br />
<br />
Sure kids and students go because their families go but would they go if it was just themselves. Some would and I know two students who have no family affiliation with church and are passionate about going and being part of the body. But the majority of my students find it hard to engage and feel part of the body.<br />
<br />
When I look at an organisation such as Young Life, they draw students in like crazy. Students want to be a part of the body of Young Life. My criticism for young life is they don't plug students in enough and there is little discipleship in most of the regions I know. But they know how to draw in students and help them find Jesus.<br />
<br />
Or take a non-christian cause look at the Occupy Wall Street protests or the Kony campaign. People wanted to be a part of a movement. People wanted to belong to something.<br />
<br />
What are some ways that we could learn from organisations like Young Life? How can we glean ideas from Occupy Wall Street or the Kony Campaign?<br />
<br />
How can we as a church become a place where we aren't concerned about young people leaving, rather we are concerned we need to find ways to be a part of all the lives pouring in?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-45344337659817935542013-02-11T19:00:00.000-08:002013-02-11T19:00:04.880-08:00Doing what is rightIn case you have been living under a rock, you may not have heard that Pope Benedict XVI has resigned from his position. He is the first to do so since 1415, that is a long time! <div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjztFgLxXsmR-ZGzc58pCvi6i9yiFGvUPjCcT5Uczf3vTIe05OEH6MUgSdQLELaVQsfYohJAXj1qkLgdfgmba3XZGN09hNUfNN8hvSJP8KMnNE58Uwf4iAnFvIESiZid7VR3uq-cx9Zo/s1600/si-pope-benedict.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjztFgLxXsmR-ZGzc58pCvi6i9yiFGvUPjCcT5Uczf3vTIe05OEH6MUgSdQLELaVQsfYohJAXj1qkLgdfgmba3XZGN09hNUfNN8hvSJP8KMnNE58Uwf4iAnFvIESiZid7VR3uq-cx9Zo/s1600/si-pope-benedict.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
While I am not part of the Catholic Church, I am a part of the catholic church. I believe that God uses different sects and denominations to accomplish his will. And while if you asked me down to the gritty details where I sit on some theological issues I would disagree with some things the Catholic Church believes. But I do believe that as long as a priest is teaching that the only way to God is through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice and that we need to strive to live a life holy and pleasing to God, I support them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways enough of that soap box, This post is about doing what is right and I believe the pope did the right thing. Too often we see people with power failing to relinquish it when they should. They will hold onto it often until death. I am not one to judge who God or man has put in an appointed church position, but I do believe it is up to the individual to seek God's calling in their lives. What I love about Pope Benedict XVI is that he has decided to step down because of failing health, but his plan is to live the rest of his life out in a monastery praying for the church and its appointed leaders. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wow what an example! A person who will give up their power and spend time praying for their successor and the church. We need more people like this in every area of the church. We need it in the evangelicals, the catholics and the mainline churches. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think their are too many problems with the church! We fight and argue, we grapple for power, we put each other down and are often too quick to judge. I would love to see more people spending time in prayer (and I need to be the first to change this in my life). If we in the church didn't fight to be the best known leader, or the most recognized church in our community we could probably work together a lot more. And image the kingdom impact it would have if we could work together to heal the hurt caused by the fighting within the church.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I believe a little move like this; if dealt with positively by other churches; could really create healing and make a huge impact for Christ in our world.</div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-8633314183945957252013-02-06T13:09:00.002-08:002013-02-06T13:09:28.336-08:00Speaking to SeniorsNow you may think that because I am youth pastor this blog post will be about graduating students. But it is not. While I love speaking with high school students, they aren't always the most encouraging group. The group I spoke with this morning is however, I spoke with a group of individuals 65+.<br />
<br />
Every wednesday morning from 1030-noon we have a group of seniors which come together to sing some hymns and hear a message. All the pastors on staff take turns preaching to this group throughout the year. I am always happy to preach but this group really makes it fun.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLmjY3pk6uC69Pv8uj7sPQyxBPkuKREOukYv8pz8FHhPRchTOUjng5YZnPjOuCF-FFzcTRuKhBMF3Z0plvZmTFLvxydT96aTZvOC5jTqT4UPSC0xoy31D95SfoLZr3oTBqNlFbEx473Y/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLmjY3pk6uC69Pv8uj7sPQyxBPkuKREOukYv8pz8FHhPRchTOUjng5YZnPjOuCF-FFzcTRuKhBMF3Z0plvZmTFLvxydT96aTZvOC5jTqT4UPSC0xoy31D95SfoLZr3oTBqNlFbEx473Y/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a>The first time I got up to preach I was blown away by the fact that the nearest person to my age that week was 50 years older than myself. I didn't know what to say, I thought I should be the one to be sitting and learning from the wisdom of those older than myself. But I got up shared my testimony and then began to preach from it. When I was done, I thought to myself how bad it went. Then everyone started sharing how that impacted them and what they learned from my story. I didn't bomb in their mind, they hadn't heard it all before but they really enjoyed it.<br />
<br />
Over the few times I have spoken at Wednesday worship I have been corrected (by a guy who knows more about the Bible than me) I have been encouraged and I have had some good jokes pointed in my direction. But the best part is it is all from love.<br />
<br />
By spending an hour every few months with my more mature friends I have begun to learn a lot about christian living, and I have got to hone my craft of preaching more. I never feel nervous in front of this group because even when I preach and things don't go as well as I hoped, the seniors always have a kind word of encouragement, a lot of insight and sometimes they even help me fine tune my thinking for when I teach a similar message in the future.<br />
<br />
So I would encourage you, if you ever have the opportunity to speak at your 'Wednesday worship', take the chance and get to know these older people. They will love you, encourage you, pray for you, pray with you and will be good teachers and listeners. And it might surprise you but they will learn from you to (and as a preacher that always feels good).<br />
<br />
<br />Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-37734284073062006912013-01-22T09:00:00.000-08:002013-01-22T09:00:07.623-08:00How Hungry are you?I was flipping through the Book "The Pursuit of God" by A.W. Tozer and was struck by a simple couple of sentences.<br />
<br />
<b>" The man is 'saved' but he is not hungry nor thirsty after God. In fact, he is specifically taught to be satisfied and is encouraged to be content with little."</b><br />
<br />
Does that summarise you? It certainly summarises me a little here and there, and often for longer periods than I would care to admit.<br />
<br />
I think one of the signs we are failing as Christians is by not being hungry. We live in a culture that says eat until your stomach is full, consume until you cannot take anymore. But when it comes to faith we are happy with just skimming the surface. Oh I took the little bit of cream off the top that I wanted and now I'm content.<br />
<br />
With consumerism in the world we need to stop, the more we are taking for ourselves the more we are harming others. The opposite is true when it comes to our faith. The more we take for ourselves the more we have to give to others. If you aren't filling yourself up with God, his word and his life giving bread, you are running out of anything you can possibly give.<br />
<br />
If you truly want to connect with God, you need to increase your hunger. And as easy as that sounds for eating food here on earth, it is harder with our spiritual diet. It probably means that you need to eat as much as you can to expand your spiritual stomach. Once your Spiritual stomach has been expanded you will grow a deeper sense of hunger.<br />
<br />
So what are you doing to do today to increase your hunger for God? For me, I am going to crack open the word and read more than I planned on reading today. Because I want to not be satisfied with a little but to always be hungry for more of God.Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-30135657947804248172013-01-20T12:58:00.000-08:002013-01-20T12:58:00.296-08:00Knowing how you worshipSeems like a stupid blog post title doesn't it. Of course I sing at church to some music and if I am really charismatic I raise my hands above my head and close my eyes (because real Christians know all the words to the songs)<br />
<br />
But I was challenged; in a course I took a couple weeks ago; to start thinking about how I worship. Gary Thomas wrote a book a while back that played a little bit off of The Five Love languages. It was called Sacred Pathways, it has to do with our own Worship Languages.<br />
<br />
<b>What are the best ways for you to relate and draw close to God? </b><br />
I thought I'd share the list with you and you could think about how you worship God, and what ways you can grow by really committing to relating with him. I know I am not a morning quiet time with journalling person, so this gave me freedom to figure out why and where I grow.<br />
<br />
<b>Naturalists- </b>Love God outside<br />
<br />
<b>Sensates-</b> Love God using the senses (perhaps incense, music, lighting help you feel in the presence of God)<br />
<br />
<b>Traditionalist-</b> You love God by going through rituals and doing things in routine. You may also love significant symbols.<br />
<br />
<b>Ascetics-</b> You love solitude and simplicity- it is there you hear God's voice<br />
<br />
<b>Activists-</b> You are loving God through fighting for Social Justice and confronting injustices.<br />
<br />
<b>Caregivers-</b> You love God through the loving of others (Think Mother Theresa and some longstanding Sunday School Teacher)<br />
<br />
<b>Enthusiasts-</b> You love God with Mystery and celebration<br />
<br />
<b>Contemplatives- </b>You love God by being contemplative on your life. You love God through Adoration<br />
<br />
<b>Intellectuals-</b> You love God with your mind. Studying scripture and books really gives you a better sense of God.<br />
<br />
The cool thing is none of these works for anyone, but I am pretty sure anyone can find one or more they enjoy. Perhaps if you have never really found a way to connect with God that feels right, you aren't in a place that is letting you worship one of these ways (either at home or at church).<br />
<br />
Find what is right for you. Because God made you to be unique.<br />
<br />
-KyleKylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-82465565817207949342013-01-19T12:48:00.001-08:002013-01-19T13:11:12.081-08:005 things God uses to Grow your FaithThis week we started using the resource by this blog titles name by Andy Stanley in our Young Adults small group.<br />
<br />
The reason I chose it is because it has a powerful message and great teaching.<br />
<br />
Great Teaching: Andy Stanley is one of my favourite speakers. He hits home about a lot of things and is engaging to watch and listen to.<br />
<br />
Powerful Message: Its simple there are 5 things that God uses in our lives to grow our faith. If we are aware of them and glean from them we have a good chance to grow deeper in our intimacy with God.<br />
<br />
The 5 Things are (All starting with 'P' so its fun and easy to remember):<br />
<br />
1.Practical Teaching<br />
-Listening to teaching that points us in the right direction. Not only is it God honouring but practical advice for us to follow<br />
<br />
2. Providential Relationship<br />
-People who direct us towards God. Maybe your parents, a colleague or that little old grandma figure who inspires your faith<br />
<br />
3. Private Disciplines<br />
- Yep, you guessed it. Bible reading, prayer, fasting, tithing, listening to God's voice, praising him<br />
<br />
4.Personal Ministry<br />
-We often like to ignore this one in the church, but we are all called to have a personal ministry. I think it is important to have a ministry you pour into in your church and outside the Church.<br />
<br />
5. Pivotal Circumstances<br />
-Some events in life just point us towards Christ more than others. Some of these things are good, but often they seem bad at the moment. Just remember God uses all things for his good. It might not be a good thing, but if we follow His guidance there can be some light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
<br />
Cool things to think about. Looking back at your life seeing how God has shaped or begun to shape you.<br />
<br />
-KyleKylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-37108587929329850642012-12-22T09:58:00.001-08:002012-12-22T09:58:29.156-08:00Taking a load offI just wanted to update people on the Youth Pastor Diet. If you haven't heard of it yet, it's a competition that partially spun off because of a guest post I wrote for <a href="http://morethandodgeball.com/">morethandodgeball.com</a><br />
It is a 90 day challenge for youth pastors to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. At this point collectively we have lost over 460lbs.<br />
<br />
It is pretty amazing to see a group of men and women willing to get into better physical shape (though I am sure the money is motivating some of them).<br />
<br />
At this point in the competition I have lose 3.5% of my body weight from the beginning. That puts me under 200lbs. Now if you know me that means lighter then when I moved to the west cost. In just 5lbs I will be lighter than Amy (my wife) has ever known me.<br />
<br />
My weight loss journey this year has had its ups and downs but this now my highest moment. I have now lost at least 41lbs( we didn't own a scaled the first few weeks of starting the weight loss). The great thing is I have still eaten: fries,pizza,burgers,chocolate,ice cream,candy, and chips. I have made is sustainable and overall pretty fun (though Amy might tell you my flare ups of Hangrrrr have not been fun)<br />
<br />
Hangrrrr- Anger as a result of being hungry.<br />
<br />
I hope this inspires some of you and encourages others.<br />
<br />
-KyleKylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-29589561740969963062012-12-19T13:38:00.000-08:002012-12-19T13:38:06.470-08:00Gift of the Season<br />
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>What’s on your heart?</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Lately I have been mulling over the verse Deuteronomy 6:4-9</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; letter-spacing: 0px;"><b> “</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates.”</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This is a set of commands that was passed down to the people of Israel in order to prosper them. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Lately I have been thinking a lot about how to grow in my faith and what ways I can open up to receive from God. Now that might sound selfish and consumeristic, but God wants to give to us. I am not saying He is going to give me cash or another car. I don’t suspect He is suddenly going to radically change my life and prevent me from being sick. I think He will give the blessings of joy, contentment and peace. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I know now that it is Christmas it is super easy to get into buying and giving mode. Some of us are doing wonderful and even focus more on giving than getting. But what about our relationship with the Lord, what about our heart’s desire? The greatest gift I have received is the love of God, so what is the greatest gift I can give? It is to love the Lord with all my heart, soul and strength. I do it as a gift for him, I do it to impact future generations and I do it to receive his love, joy, and peace. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I encourage you as we are in this season to set Christ first. Talk about him when sitting at home and even when on the road in your car. Connect with God when you get up in the morning and when you go to bed. Consider putting scripture by your door so you see it when you come and go from home. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 16px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We do this to give back in thanks for receiving the greatest gift of all.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-69031297387427218862012-12-01T22:15:00.000-08:002012-12-01T22:15:52.154-08:00No Jesus TalkDodgeballs getting whipped at dozens of miles per hour. People getting hit in the back, butt, stomach and 2 head shots. Sounds like fun doesn't it? It sure was a great event. We had 6 fringe students, 2 newcomers and a bunch of regulars come out for a 3 hour dodgeball tournament tonight.<br />
<br />
We played several styles of dodgeball: Doctor, team vs team, every man for themselves, the growing team. It sure was an amazing night. We took a break in the middle to hydrate with Coke and eat chips, gummy bears and sour patch kids (for those following me that know I'm on the Youth Pastor diet, please note I only had one sip of coke and 3 chips)<br />
<br />
When all was said and done I didn't do a single talk. Now I know for a lot of people that is a huge no-no. We always talk about Jesus because it might be the only time those students ever hear about Jesus. And I totally agree it is super important to share Christ with every student we can.<br />
<br />
But I also believe that as churches we make it really hard for students to invite friends to church activities. They are scared their friends will reject what they believe or worse yet, think they have been tricked and won't continue to be their friend.<br />
<br />
To counteract this I have decided that on occassion I prepare an event that has lots of hype and fun where students can invite their friends to come connect and feel loved. The point of this event is to slowly show their friends how loving our community is and that it is a welcoming and non-hostile place. The hope behind this is the students will make a meaningful connection and come to subsequent events where they can hear the message of Christ.<br />
<br />
Some might think it's foolish, but I am hoping the risk will pay. I am trusting Christ will shine through myself and especially my students so others may know him. <br />
<br />
-KyleKylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-39858064428418078492012-11-30T12:20:00.000-08:002012-11-30T12:20:44.168-08:00Getting Healthy!If you aren't a subscriber to morethandodgeball.com I suggest you go over and take a read of this awesome article:<br />
<a href="http://www.morethandodgeball.com/2012/11/30/the-youth-pastor-diet-contest/" target="_blank">http://www.morethandodgeball.com/2012/11/30/the-youth-pastor-diet-contest/</a><br />
<br />
Especially pay attention to the Guest Post he talks about (aka the one I wrote) I am getting behind this and planning to lose some weight. I hope you all join in or encourage someone to do it.<br />
<br />
Not a youth worker but are a spouse, loved one, mentor, volunteer, church ministry staff? Join anyways your love support and community will help us all towards the goal!<br />
<br />
Please pray about this and encourage others to do the same! Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-5341166038741192012012-11-18T18:19:00.001-08:002012-11-18T18:19:56.602-08:00Beautiful Unique GirlLast night we had an amazing event. We brought in a team from the Family Life network to run an event called Beautiful Unique girl. The event was Pajama Party themed and involved singing, dancing, with a pizza party and chocolate fountain.<br />
<br />
The event it self was a dream for a youth pastor. You are just required to book the venue, feed and billet the girls and that's basically it. The team came in, did all their own set up and take down. It really was quite nice.<br />
<br />
The best part of the night however was hands down the message. They talked to the girls about self image and their identity in Christ. The message was timely and needed. The best reminder of this was during the night itself. While I wasn't able to take part in the evening (as evident by the pillow that said 'No boys allowed") My wife told me about it. Each of the girls wrote on one piece of paper the things they disliked about themselves and tore it up. On the other piece of paper they wrote what they liked about themselves. Unfortunately, my wife ended up picking up a few of the 'like' papers and finding one of them had the words "nothing at all" written on it.<br />
<br />
Reading this broke my wife's heart, hearing this broke mine and I can only image how God feels knowing one of his children feel this way.<br />
<br />
It's a reminder that this is a lesson we need to keep sending. We have a lot of conversations saying that God loves you and your identity should be found in Christ, but are we really doing the best job we can?<br />
<br />Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-24876208213422776592012-11-13T11:12:00.002-08:002012-11-13T11:12:59.534-08:00Cloud AtlasWarning Spoilers contained within: <br />
<br />
A couple nights ago I went to see the movie Cloud Atlas. If you haven't seen the movie it is 6 story lines that all are woven together and end up as one story in the distant future. I won't say too much; not because of spoilers but; because its too complex.<br />
<br />
Now when I went to see the film I knew almost nothing about it. It looked pretty cool and I thought it was going to be woven together like Babel or Crash. Multiple story lines colliding into one theme and message.<br />
<br />
One of the big problems I had with Cloud Atlas was that it centered around reincarnation. The movie follows one soul as it moves from person to person (in the movie this ends up being the hero of each storyline.<br />
<br />
The film tried to impart a feeling that our actions or lack there of, cause a ripple effect on other groups and individuals both in the present and into the future. While I agree this is true, the fact is reincarnation is not. Our souls don't move from body to body as we move through time. Souls are eternal but after our time on earth there is a destination.<br />
<br />
The second problem I had with the film is that there was a character Sonmi-451who ends up sacrificing herself for the greater good. They really give a sense that she is a Christ like character. Sacrificing herself so others may know what is true and to abandon how they are living. Wow, sounds great right! My problem again is routed in the fact that I struggle to accept the message of reincarnation especially when they are trivializing what Christ did. It may not have been their intention but for me, saying what Christ did was anything less than the ultimate sacrifice of love and Grace is just wrong.<br />
<br />
<br />
The lesson I learned from watching this movie is:<br />
<br />
When thinking about media we have to carefully critique it: It took me a long time to figure out what was bothering me.<br />
<br />
But we need to talk to people about it and teach others to think about critiquing media. I work with youth and naturally they are submerged in a culture of media. But the problem is they need to learn to critique it and find truths and lies from it. They need to know what to filter and what to accept. Its a tough thing to do even as an adult.<br />
<br />
So my challenge to you is: Are you teaching others to filter what they are putting into their heads? <br />
Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-46959892803676563942012-11-08T16:14:00.000-08:002012-11-08T16:14:04.747-08:00A post about nothingThis post has no message or lesson, it won't give you any smart tips or deep thoughts. This post is to let you know what is going on right now.<br />
<br />
<b>Fun Fact:</b> For lunch I had beans and wieners- it was delicious. If you have never had it before you heat up some beans in tomato sauce, cook some hot dogs and mix them together. Tasty and Cheap!<br />
<br />
<b>Currently Listening to:</b> A mixture of television theme songs, worship music, and Simon and Garfunkel.<br />
<br />
<b>What I'm working on:</b> I am creating a 4 week Sunday School series called "A walk through Exodus" The four weeks are: Moses, The 10 Commandments, Ark of the Covenant, The Tabernacle.<br />
The hope is to talk about how these Old Testament things relate to our current faith. Do they matter? Can we learn something from them? and Why should we learn about this stuff?<br />
<br />
<b>Last App I used:</b> Bejewelled Blitz- Its awesome because of 1 minute blitz games of Bejewelled. It gives me a quick break but I don't get distracted for too long<br />
<br />
<b>Whats on my mind:</b> What events/things can I do to grow and strength our youth adults ministry at the church.<br />
<br />
<b>Last thing I laughed at:</b> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPhYzvy8b1DSVOhy29cePWSo4rWObSa2xA8zWSMztvTw3SfPaksB-Nx4J2qmys7DlqFdrwB0KPoBf6mRTnx-TQUDex9_MP8dBic2giqdTfuzmWmpgKY9lLU36bPT3SdhAnvTXacMtb6oY/s320/24813386.jpg" width="320" /> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No offence meant to my veggie friends</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Thing I am avoiding most: </b>Cleaning off my desk<br />
<br />
<b>What I am doing as soon as I finish this email: </b>Picking up a roast chicken for dinner then heading home!<br />
<br />
Hope you enjoyed my post about nothing.<br />
<br />
-Kyle<br />
<br /><b></b>
<br /><b></b>Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3563471024383535229.post-47576517388486296742012-11-02T12:03:00.001-07:002012-11-02T12:03:02.953-07:00An Audience of One<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EF0wfdOhnHtLxnTbCjMC8ZNeYaCjINilE4zdUXTX1XCuTTrljKq8n_YB6GRcbNVCBoEmQw1z-lJBc7izQhovwF-Mp6kyYtsD9YW5SgMkZAcQOKjqn2MJ-D_PQvp1IHaSsCVFpQvl2Fw/s1600/lay-down-for-the-Lord-590x368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_EF0wfdOhnHtLxnTbCjMC8ZNeYaCjINilE4zdUXTX1XCuTTrljKq8n_YB6GRcbNVCBoEmQw1z-lJBc7izQhovwF-Mp6kyYtsD9YW5SgMkZAcQOKjqn2MJ-D_PQvp1IHaSsCVFpQvl2Fw/s320/lay-down-for-the-Lord-590x368.jpg" width="320" /></a>I love my usual fast. It usually takes place from 11pm-9am, its called sleep. I almost always end it with breakFAST. Seriously, that's where the word came from; eating in the morning as a way of breaking a fast. Sure it wasn't meant to be the only fast we do, but for most of us it is.<br />
<br />
This past week our lead pastor gave a message on doing things for an Audience of One. Obviously, he was talking about about doing things for the audience of God and not others. He preached out of Matthew 6:1-18. It's a big section of the sermon on the mount revolving around doing good things privately.<br />
<br />
The thing that really stood out to me in this passage is the portion of fasting. And it was the simple phrase "when you fast" - now I won't take it out of context and say its only about us supposed to be fasting, but its a teaching tool for when we fast.<br />
<br />
Now back in the day they used to fast a lot, they did it is a sign of devotion to the cross, but how often do you do it now? If Jesus thought it was important enough to hit on in his biggest sermon, perhaps its something we should pay attention to.<br />
<br />
Fasting is a great tool to be in the presence of God. It's a discipline we do not just to starve ourselves of something we like, but also to spend that time with God.<br />
<br />
Fasting is a way to connect with God, to hear from God, to commune with God.<br />
<br />
So the question really is, how often do you fast? Perhaps if you haven't been doing it, you should think about taking it up. Take one thing (whether its a meal of the day, your electronics, your sports game) and give it up... take the time you would be doing that thing and spend it with God.<br />
<br />
If you take the time to do this, I guarantee you will have a better walk with Christ. He wants to be the first thing in your life, would it kill you to give something up for him?<br />
<br />
-Kyle<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. If you have any health concerns or medical conditions check with your doctor before starting any food fasts. </span>Kylehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06527448693000293509noreply@blogger.com0