Remember the Decade

Looking back at history can be fun and amusing. There are things we remember that were big hits and were big flops. There were things that made us look good at the time, but after reflection of family photos, we realized we were dead wrong (this would include the obsession with a fanny pack). So, with this in mind, here are few of the top things that were out in the past decade:

* Airports and the days when you didn't have to get undressed to fly the friendly sky's
* Apps - There is now an "App" for anything
* Blogs - there are more than 100 million blogs in cyberspace
* Book Clubs - another Oprah idea redeveloped
* Cable TV and the 24 hour news programs
* Cell Phones - from a bag and antenna to an iPhone
* Chefs and the Food Network
* Crocs - the plastic shoes that debuted in 2002
* Facebook - social networking
* Going Green - from light bulbs to cars and grocery bags
* Google
* GPS - no one can drive without a British lady barking orders
* HGTV/DIY
* Instant Gratification - get what you want when you want decade
* iPods
* Life Coaches - there is a coach for everything
* Organic Products
* Reality TV - please bring back a good sitcom
* Starbucks on every corner
* Texting - r u still rding this? Hope u r
* TV Flat Screens - where have the big box TVs gone?
* Twitter
* Uggs - those bulky fuzzy boots that people even where in LA
* Wii - video gaming at its best (who remembers Atari 2600)
* You Tube - it's all out there in video format

What will come in the next decade?

18

We now have 3 adults and one minor living in our home. Today, Tyler turned 18 years old. Happy Birthday to Tyler!

Reflecting back on these years comes with a lot of memories. Teaching him to ride his first bike, coaching him in baseball and basketball, moving him overseas for several years, enrolling him in multiple different schools, teaching him to drive my car, watching him go on his first date / homecomings, and being accepted into a college of his choice. And watching him grow from a little boy to a pretty good size man.

But most of all, I am thankful for who he is. The decisions he makes and the sensitivity he has for others and the respect he has for himself - all stemming from a relationship with a living God.

Thankful for the Opportunity

I've just moved into 1 Corinthians for my daily reading. While I was waiting for some car upkeep this morning, I decided to get started reading. And was hit with the thought of being "thankful for the opportunity."

You see, most of us strive to be wise, be smart, educate ourselves, and do well. While I am one who fits that category and does not negate the idea of bettering ourselves, I am still humble with the opportunity (ies) I have been given.

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 packs a big punch. I can not give you all the nuggets that hit me today, but will offer a few.

The first thing is a reminder of God's sense of humor! Whether you believe it or not, God is funny. I simply laughed at myself while reading that even God's weakness is stronger than what man can offer and that the foolishness of God is still smarter and wiser than man. If you need an example, visit Dubai now. It's a man made pleasure playground, but now is sitting on the brinks of ruin. God even warns us that man's wisdom will come to pass.

The second thing is the fact that God gives us opportunities despite our flaws in wisdom and power. Verses 26-30 reminds me that I am really not wise by worldly standards. Sure I have some degrees behind my name, but I am far from others. That I am not or have not been in powerful positions. While most of my jobs have been fun and placed me all over the world, I still had little say so. And the fact that I was not of noble birth. Although, I am a product of a good Christian mother and father. Despite missing the worlds mark, God has given me opportunities that I could have never achieved without His placing me in them.

And finally, I was reminded that my hope as a believer in Christ is my daily power, wisdom, and insight to all my needs and desires. That those who are not of the Christ life spend their time mocking Jesus, fighting for Christianity to go away, and slapping Christians in the face for a "soft" belief or "intolerable" belief. But, if the character of God is true; and I believe it is, it is those people who are foolish.

As you reflect over the past year and search for the next one, remind yourself where the source of your life comes from - Jesus Christ. Verse 30 says "He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boasts in the Lord." Be thankful for the opportunities that God has given you and the unknown ones ahead.

The Ultimate Christmas Song

Click the title and enjoy this great performance of the 12 Days of Christmas. It's talent no doubt!

The Adoration of the Magi

This is one the most beautiful pieces of art located in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC (my opinion as of last month). It is entitled, The Adoration of the Magi and was painted by Fra Angelico and Fra Filippo Lippi around 1440. As part of an Italian exhibit of paintings rendering the life of Christ and others, there was no question to me that this stood out from them all.

This painting is colorful, it glows, and it draws you to the center from any angle. But more importantly to me is the detail of the painting. Notice the streets are packed with people like you and me, waiting to experience the true meaning of Christmas (yes even they stood in lines). It includes the wealthy of the day and the poor of the day. People are worshiping in a variety of ways, and I would guess some are even questioning others while waiting to see this baby boy lying in a manger. Seeing this painting a few weeks ago was a good reminder to me of why we celebrate Christmas. Outside of the museum that day was a freshly packed ice rink with hundreds of people, Santa Clause signs and Christmas Trees adorned the National Mall. But, this picture, with all its glow and simplicity spoke volumes to those passing by that, in fact, a Savior had been born and the people of the day were experiencing it. Whether it was those present in the inn, the artists of the 1400's, or you and I today, a Savior has been and his name is Christ the Lord.....

Luke 2

The Birth of Jesus Christ

¹In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. ²This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³And all went to be registered, each to his own town. ⁴And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, ⁵to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. ⁶And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. ⁷And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

⁸And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. ⁹And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. ¹⁰And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. ¹²And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." ¹³And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
¹⁴"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"

¹⁵When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us." ¹⁶And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. ¹⁷And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. ¹⁸And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. ¹⁹But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. ²⁰And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Merry Christmas !

Santa's Got a New Ride

There are many sites to see regarding Christmas in downtown Richmond, Va. From the tacky Christmas lights tour to the decorated doors on Monument Avenue, there is a lot going on.

Yesterday, Kelly, Brendan, and myself headed to Monument Avenue in the afternoon to look at the decorated doors. It really is neat to see the number of people out with their cameras taking photos of these historical homes and the giant wreaths with colored ornaments hanging from them (one lady even asked Kelly if she was a decorator getting ideas - ha ha).

While blocking traffic and looking out of our car window, in the corner view of my eye, I spotted Santa. It was Santa and his 1960's prestige Cadillac with a bow on top and presents inside. The expression from Brendan's mouth was enough to scare any reindeer away. So, I cut through a round a bout in the middle of the street while spinning tires in the slushy snow just to get up close to see Santa and his new ride. And it was a Christmas treat. May be a close second to cousin Eddie pulling up the driveway in his RV to visit the Griswald's.

The afternoon drive - by ended with a great Starbucks drink and utter amazement of Santa sitting in a Caddy located in historical downtown Richmond with homes decorated in "class."

Mason Nation

After twelve years of parenting a child through local public schools, international schools, and private schools, my oldest son Tyler will be continuing his education following his senior year. He will be joining the fan crazed "Mason Nation" (you remember the basketball team who rocked the Final Four) of George Mason University.

Like many other parents who have children in college, I too look forward to wearing my $40,000 t-shirt and hat that proudly displays my indebtedness to a new institution of higher learning.

Snowy Birthday

The excitement of birthday cake, ice cream, and presents is usually enough fun. But, 12 inches of snow on top of that is sure bliss. And yesterday, our family celebrated Kelly's birthday and snow!

After making the drive home from work on Friday night and waking up to a foot of snow, I knew it would be a good day. It started with a good cup of coffee, followed by eggs (in a black iron skillet), uncured bacon meat, and grits. We cleaned sidewalks, scrapped cars, and threw a few snowballs while taking family photos. The afternoon brought about the making of homemade snow cream (with my dad's recipe), college basketball, and a short winters nap.

Now I was ready for the evening - a fine meal to be prepared for Kelly and the baking of Red Velvet cupcakes. As I have mentioned before, being an accomplished chef would be a goal of mine. So, I do all I can at home to work on this accomplishment. The menu for the night was a Mustard Herb Glazed Salmon with a Gorgonzola and Porcini Mushroom Risotto and Broccoli on the side. Hmmmmm... if I say so myself.

The final pinnacle of this snow filled birthday was a date on the couch to watch Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye in White Christmas. Snow, Snow, Snow.........(you know you want to sing it!)

30,975....

The above number is the total of people for 2009 who have signed into the Cool Spring Rec Center. These people have walked the track, played in the game room, lifted weights, participated in aerobic classes, and played basketball during open gym. As a Rec Ministry we celebrate this number. And as a Rec Minister, I say thanks to those who have participated and to the the great Rec Center Volunteers for their continued ministry to those using the facility.

But this is more than a numbers game. While I will not disagree that tracking numbers can help us achieve certain goals, I do not want to get stuck on the "number" agenda. And I do not want our people working in recreation ministry to think in terms of "numbers." I want our people to think in terms of "opportunity." With the people who use our facility, church members and community members, how are we doing with our opportunities. The opportunity to greet them with a good first impression, the opportunity to speak with them about their daily lives, the opportunity to spend real time with them, and the opportunity to share with them the life changing message of Jesus Christ.

Sure, the above digits are big. But without intentional investment in those opportunities, those digits are simply numbers. And it's not numbers we want, it's opportunities we pray for!

A Gift For You

In the spirit of giving this Christmas Season, I am giving away two Cool Spring Recreation t-shirts. Your choice of a blue ring t-shirt with logo on front or a white t-shirt with small logo on front and larger on the back.

Respond now and the first two have themselves a great gift!!

Prayer on Track

Reminder that we are in the midst of our Prayer Walk in the Rec Center for the "Missing Peoples." Come out and use the track to pray for the nations.

Remember Being Kids

Saturday I was in Washington DC with my wife, youngest son, and my mom to see the Washington Wizards play. Yes, my mom loves a good NBA game! And we were privileged enough to have done it from the floor behind the bench. While we were in town and I was trying to thaw out from the previous days fishing trip, we stopped in Starbucks off Pennsylvania Ave for a warm drink (temps were still around 40). And the sign I saw hanging in the door caught my attention.

"I wish GROWN UPS could remember being KIDS"

This was great! Multiple thoughts hit my head all at once. I thought about the fun of Christmas and the anticipation it brings as we decorate the tree as a family, resort back to the days of receiving Radio Flyer wagons, Schwinn bikes, opening new pajamas on Christmas Eve, Eggnog, and the spread of Hickory Farms. I then thought about my youngest, Brendan. With his strong personality and independent nature, he can find himself in a pickle every now and then. And to often I over jump the situation, not remembering what it was to be a kid and make some of the same decisions he seems to be making now (with my mom present I couldn't help but be reminded I did the same things). And then Sunday morning, my friend Friar Tuck spoke about Christmas from a young heart perspective. He reminded us that we may grow old in years and our views of the magical Christmas may change, but Christ desires us to approach Him like a child. In a "kidlike" faith we accept His gift to us - the birth,death, burial, and resurrection of a Savior. And it's only when we respond in that "kid" like faith that we truly grasp and depend on Him for all things.

Wow, little did I know that a simple cup of Joe from Starbucks would lead to such thought and reflection of my life. From the joys of Christmas memories with my family, to my struggles of parenting and remembering what it is like to be a kid, and the overwhelming joy of simply responding in "Kid" like faith to embrace the greatest love ever given.

I invite you to read the sign hanging in the blog one more time.Go ahead, act like "kid." It's a great day for it!

When the Fish Don't Bite

Unfortunately we didn't come home with any trophy fish. However, we did come home with cold bones and a good time (yes it did end being a great boat ride in 20 degree weather with 1 ft seas and 8 mile winds).

As I have reflected on this time, the question that arises is, "how do we respond when the fish don't bite?" Some would consider this day to be a "skunk" and not look favorably on it. Others would say it was a good day because a "bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work." And the opinions could go on. My response would be that it was a good day. It was a good day because I had the opportunity to build relationships with the other guys I was fishing with, I had the opportunity to talk about spiritual journeys, and it was a good day because in those conditions we remained safe and protected from harm.

Fishing is both a term and a profession we see used throughout scripture. Look at the number of times Jesus said, "let your nets down and follow me." Or when Jesus said, "I will make you fishers of men." There is a lot going on here with this idea of fishing. People understood the profession and now Jesus was calling them to apply the same disciplines in order to connect and create relationships with people.

It really was amazing for me to watch my outdoor friends prepare lines on Thursday and Friday. They set certain hooks. They cut and trimmed certain materials so the bait would look just right. They changed bate and reset hooks for certain depths of water and currents. They chartered the map of the Potomac River Thursday night and again on Friday morning. All of theses details generated the excitement of the possibilities that were ahead of us - a big catch. However, even with all these preparations we still did not catch a fish. In fact we, along with other commercial boats, did not report a bite on the lines.

As Christians we have been called to fish - to share the good news of what Christ has done in our daily lives with others around us. But in order for us to share, we have to learn to be intentional. Jesus was intentional with others every day (John 4:1-41). He took the initiative and He engaged others despite the circumstances surrounding Him and others. Being intentional begins with setting your heart and mind on the things of Christ and expecting God to use you throughout the day. Yes, it also will require us to be prepared for that moment as well. Be prepared to share your story, pray with someone, or share a scripture verse you have recently learned or applied in your own life.

A former professor of mine said this, "You have to love fishing more than you do catching." These words summed it up for me. Not everyday will I catch fish, share the gospel, or see someones life transformed. But every day, like my outdoor friends, I can be excited about preparing myself for the possibilities that may come each day. I can be excited about my story, what I am reading the Bible, and how God is growing and challenging me. I can be excited about simply fishing. And leave the results to God.

Today, be excited about your story and God's message to the world (The Christmas Story). And learn to enjoy fishing more than you do catching. Remember, it's the process of growth in our lives that brings joy to our Saviors face.

Brrrr..on the Bay

Tonight I am leaving to meet some of the guys in the Outdoor Ministry - Brent Bosher, Tod Danaker, and fellow blogger Greg Edmonds (http://trophytalk.blogspot.com). We will be heading out of Reidville to the Bay for some good Striped Bass / Rockfishing. I hope the fish will be biting, because I do not particularly want to go on a boat ride in 29 degree weather for the scenery! Hope to post some photos of my upcoming citation.

Christmas Fact

The city of Santa Clause is located in Indiana.

Story of Our Tree

First of all, my family is a "fresh cut" Christmas Tree kind of family. While I have an appreciation for the "artificial," it just doesn't make its debut in our home. We are also good old fashion fat bulbs kind of people as well. And I love to sit and look at the tree with its light and all its glory.

As I was sitting this morning and gazing into the bulbs and the ornaments, my mind began to run wild. Looking at each of the ornaments reminded me of a particular moment in my life, Kelly's life, Tyler's life, and Brendan's life. You see our tree is full of ornaments that have a story. Some are photos from each of our childhoods, some are hand made creations, some are gifts from people, and some are from other countries in the world. With each ornament comes a reminder of how God has orchestrated our lives, developed us as individuals, and provided great opportunities to experience His story in our own lives. The tree we share together is also representative of the life we share together.

The same should be true of our relationship with Christ. Like the Christmas tree and it's decorations, our lives have been decorated with spiritual markers. Those moments in our lives where God provided, led us in a new direction, brought hope in difficult times, and the list could go on. And as we reflect on those spiritual markers, our response should be a beaming glow of joy, trust, and worship.

Take a few moments to think back in terms of your spiritual journey. See how God has guided your path and hold tight the spiritual markers. For that's what has decorated your life and given you a story to tell.

Noble Warrior

This morning a group of guys from our Outdoor Ministry had breakfast with Mike Young - director and founder of Noble Warriors Ministry.

Mike has been working with Noble Warriors since 2004 and is focused on men capturing a passion to be leaders in their home, family, work, and wherever they go. It is estimated that the average man following Christ will spend 100 hours or less a year reading their Bible outside of traditional church service opportunities. Noble Warriors is working hard to help men understand the need for daily fellowship with Christ in order to have positive fellowship with their spouse, children, and other relationships. Currently Mike is on his 2009 Cracker Barrel Tour where he meets men of the community in order to connect with them and help them move forward in their lives, as well as practical ways to live out out our their faith.

Check out noblewarriors.org for more information.

Wizards of the Adult League

Tonight we are hitting the "hardwood" in DC. The two teams who won their leagues in the Cool Spring Adult Basketball League will be watching the Washington Wizards and the Toronto Raptors.

Each season we try to improve our league from various levels. This year we are providing the winners with tickets to the Wizards game. It will be a time for us to have fun together, talk about life, and develop better relationships. And for the guys, it will be a time for them to enjoy the reward of a winning season.

Popcorn, basketball, hip hop, and the Cool Spring Adult League...what a combination!

Organization

Though I am a little behind where I would like to be, currently we are looking at the 2010 Recreation Calendar. This calendar holds all the key dates for leagues, seasons, classes, and you name it. And it fills up fast.

As I have been reflecting on our calendar from a recreation perspective, I have learned that we are busy. This is not a negative. But it does require one leadership principle: organization. Organization helps us achieve our mission statement, "combining the gift of leisure with the companionship of Christ." Being organized allows us to ensure we have the volunteers needed, the gym available, classroom space open, league schedules prepared, and future events that do not overlap.

I've been reading the book of Nehemiah and I am a long time fan of Nehemiah! This book opens all obstacles in regards to leadership and gives us directives in how to be better leaders. One leadership principle that Nehemiah demonstrates is: organization. Chapter 3 is simply a list of those who were grouped together (professions, individuals,, and families) to accomplish specific tasks. And it really is awesome to see how the vision of God was brought about because one man, following God's plan, was organized.

The combination of recreation and ministry will open a lot of doors for opportunity to connect with people and offer recreational activities. As you begin to plan and implement them, work hard to be organized. It will be a benefit that will enable you to accomplish your goal/mission and it will speak volumes to those participating.

As you look at your own personal life, work hard to be organized. Today's culture pulls us in all directions with activities and jobs. It takes intentional focus on our part to work at knowing our calendars and family activities. And, leadership in the home is needed as much as it is in the work place.

So, be a leader and be organized.

Living the Upward Spirit

This week our Upward Leadership team lost a creative and passionate member, Beth Pett. Beth entered eternity to be with the Lord following a difficult period of illness. Throughout the last several years, Beth served as a parent, coach, picture day coordinator, and end of season celebration coordinator. In each of these areas, Beth gave it her best. She looked out for the interest others over herself. It was her desire to see that families had a great experience playing soccer and that children were given the opportunity to be introduced to a relationship with Christ.

As we celebrate Beth's life, we can be reminded that today she is rejoicing in the arms of her loving Savior, Jesus Christ. The scripture speaks to us clearly in regards to eternal life. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him will not persih, but have ever lasting life." For Beth, the words of our Lord can be heard, "well done thy good faithful servant."

If you have questions or want to talk more about having the assurance of eternal life, simply contact me - genglish@coolspring.org

Beth will be missed and remembered for "Living out the Upward Spirit and Mission."

Down Wind

One of my biggest fears and reasons I do not partake in using the outdoor facilities. This was a photo I took the day after thanksgiving at the Nags Head Golf Villages. Somebody had a little to much turkey and stuffing..... (I hope it was just a result of the heavy wind blowing).

Thanksgiving

The scripture is full of "thanks" and "thanksgiving." As you spend time with family this week, take time to read some specific passages regarding "thanksgiving." Just a few to start with: Psalm 100:4, Psalm 69:30, Psalm 79:13, Psalm 118:1, Phil 3:10, 1 Thes. 5:18 and so on...

Reading the scriptures of thanksgiving gives us a Godly perspective. A perspective to be thankful first for a God who has created us and loved us without any conditions and a perspective that reminds us of the provisions He has blessed us with - generations of family, housing, food, clothing, work, etc. In all things, GIVE THANKS.

Happy Thanksgiving from my house to yours!

Top 10 Reasons...

I had the opportunity to visit Buffalo, NY Monday to spend time with the Leistner family,as well as others from Cool Spring. While I was there, we identified the top ten reasons to go to Buffalo:

10.I'm feeling a Super Mighty (a large overstuffed taco)
9. Hi,my name is Bob from Buffalo (every body was named Bob)
8. Fire Hall (there are no fire stations, they are fire halls)
7. Leather Bomber Jackets still the preferred winter coat
6. Chef's Sauce (famous Italian restaurant downtown)
5. The phrase , "Have another pop." (that's coke to you and I)
4. The use of the word "Youse," as in youse guys
3. The phrase, "hey, I saw you at the hockey rink..."
2. Tim Horton's coffee!! (FYI - Tim Horton is in the top all time 50 NHL players)

And the number reason to go to Buffalo for the day.....

1. The wings are better because the buffalo's are bigger!!!

Coach Training

Today we hosted our annual Upward Basketball Coach Training with Coach Bob Foley. Coach Foley does a great job of teaching our coaches how to maximize their time during practice while teaching skills of the game. Coach Foley has a great history of coaching at the collegiate level as well as a camp director and instructor.

Coach Foley said a lot of things about basketball today that stood out, but he started the training with this; "You are not coaching basketball, you are coaching kids." Wow! What a statement about the responsibility given to coaches. This statement should turn our attention to the way we instruct / communicate to those playing for us. It's about recognizing each player for their personalities and abilities and working with them in order to grow them in both areas. Coaching kids is also about them having fun! Doing drills and skills that involve them rather than impress them with head knowledge of the game (most of which they will not comprehend or need during a recreational activity in the second grade). Coaching is an opportunity to impact the lives of our youngsters. It's a privilege that allows us to invest in them. And it's a responsibility we need to recognize the potential outcome we can be a part of.

If you are coaching this season, remember the kids want to have fun. Yes, we need to teach them the sport, but don't over coach them. There are great tools available for teaching kids and working with them. Check out the American Sport and Education Program, Bob Foley Next Level Basketball, and Upward.org for more information.

Oswald Chambers

One the greatest writers of truth and thought for me is Oswald Chambers. The depths in which he thinks and writes and wraps his heart around a relationship with Christ blows me away on a daily basis. If you need a good daily devotional, purchase Oswald Chambers My Utmost For His Highest.

Two thoughts that hit me today:

1. It's more our character that hinders who God really is. We tend view ourselves and things as just ordinary, and therefore, have an ordinary view of God and what He wants to do. Which is NOT God's character.

2. It's in obedience to small daily tasks that will illuminate the joy and greatness of God. While reading daily is critical for our spiritual walk and refreshing, it will always be obedience that creates an awesome joy of serving God.

Outdoor Dining

Sunday was a great time of fellowship for the Outdoor Ministry. Families gathered together to enjoy venison prepared with bacon wrap, jerky, and Glen Dunaways speacial tenderloin and sauce. We also had Rock fish and Grouper along with great sides and sweets to follow.

But the best part was the opportunities that families had to enjoy this time together. Often I see ministries developed that tend to separate the family. Ministries that are geared to impact groupings of individuals. While I believe individuals need connecting, it should not create a divide for the family in learning and growing in ministry together. Our culture, and even myself, struggles with this. We feel the need to be a men's group, a woman's group, a mom's/dad's group, a sports group, and before you realize it, these groups have consumed the two most valuable things provided to us: time and family.

As the father of a high school senior and preparing for college, (ask me about him and I will be glad to tell you he has a 4.0 GPA, works with the Cool Spring Child Care Center,and ..well you are suppose to ask me) I am realizing as time goes by, that relationships with the family and time with them are the most important. And yes, I to have to work at this.

Involve your family and involve yourself in the interests of your family.

Enjoy the Hunt

This weekend starts general firearms hunting in VA. With that I want to give a shout out to the Outdoor Ministry guys of Cool Spring. Enjoy the Hunt! Remember the hunt is like the process of our Christian lives. God is more concerned with the process of transformation in our lives than He is in a few big changes every now and then. See http://trophytalk.blogspot.com for Greg Edmonds insight into the armor of God.

New Commissh'

I love when God puts the "right people" in my path. Thursday I was having a breakfast meeting with our Flag Football director, current referee commissioner and a new referee commissioner for next year. I had come to know this new referee commissioner over the last year through his serving as a regular ref in our league. But yesterday I really got to know him.

I was aware that we would be needing a new commissioner in this area. Andy Lacatel, who has done a great job over the last several seasons, is moving on in ministry. So over the last month or so we have been praying about a new person for this role. One particular person came to our attention. And today it was confirmed. God introduced me to the real(not just the on field person) Brian Hyde. As I listened to the story of his life; from growing up in Michigan, participating in the 1996 Olympics, and how Christ became real in his life, I knew the "right person" was before us as we move forward in Flag Football. While sports, even at the highest level, was a major factor in his life, what I really saw was humility and desire to influence others because of his relationship with Christ.

The "right people" are critical. And yesterday God brought one our way. Thanks to Brian Hyde for saying yes to this new ministry.

What to do in 2010?

Start making your exercise and fitness plans now. The 2010 year is upon us and things are changing. I follow Club Industry Fitness Magazine for articles and research on several topics. I have copied part of an article revealing the new fitness trends coming our way.

In 2010, consumers will seek out educated, experienced fitness professionals, according to the American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) top fitness trends survey. The fourth-annual ACSM survey was based on feedback from 1,500 respondents. Some 37 potential trends were given as survey choices, with the top 20 ranked and published by ACSM.

Strength training was listed second in the rankings, which is an indicator of the increased focus on strength training for various populations, survey authors noted.

ACSM’s top 10 fitness trends for 2010 are:

1. Educated and experienced fitness professionals

2. Strength training

3. Children and obesity

4. Personal training (we offer this at the Rec Center)

5. Core training

6. Special fitness programs for older adults

7. Functional fitness

8. Sport-specific training

9. Pilates

10. Group personal training

What will it be? We all fall into one of these categories of improvement needed!

Thanks to Our Veterans

Happy Veterans Day! Today is a day we reflect and give thanks to God for the opportunity he has provided us to live in a country of freedom. And today is a day that we give thanks to all the men and women (and families) that have sacrificed in order to continue living in those freedoms. Thank You!

Football Funny

Received this photo today. The two go hand and hand - names and numbers. Enjoy!

Execution

As a leader over a Recreation Ministry it is my desire to see that we are "executing" our daily tasks in order to achieve our mission of "combining sports and leisure with the companionship of Christ." Franklin Covey has a great tool for execution entitled, The Four Essentials of Execution. The disciplines are: Focus on the Wildly Important, Act on the Lead Measures, Keep a Compelling Scoreboard, and Create a Cadence of Accountability. Working through each of these points, along with team members, will enable us to see how we are doing in combining sports and ministry. As a Recreation Minister, it is also my job to communicate with those working (Upward Directors, Volunteers, Fitness Classes, Adult League Directors) our mission statement. And, it is my job to teach them to execute in their specific area so that we do the best job possible of reaching our community for Christ through recreation.

As followers of Christ we have been communicated with through the writing of the Bible. In this book, we have been given a plan of execution for our lives. It is a source for which we can read and grow in, only if we execute! Often times we read and walk away without providing ourselves a means in which we will execute in our lives what we gained from reading. As a result / overflow of reading, we should be propelled into execution. Take time to Read, Report, and Reflect on what God is saying to you in His word. Through this process you will become disciplined in the area of spiritual "execution."

Solitude

Solitude and Silence are two words that connect together in regards to the area of spiritual disciplines. And this twin discipline is one in which I to often miss out on.In fact, most of us miss out.

Our culture and world around us are so packed with noise - ipods, play stations,TV's,cell phones,- that we have become afraid of solitude and silence. We fear what we will do when we simply sit still and ponder. This Sunday I will be preaching on the discipline of Solitude and Silence at Cool Spring Church. Not only will I be sharing with those in attendance, but I am praying that this message will impact me just as much.

Take a few minutes to sit still, to get away for a "minute" retreat and create space for balance in your busy life. God promises us that we will meet him there.

So, in practicing what I am going to preach, check out the above view I had yesterday from Royal New Kent Golf Course. Thanks Chris Jones for a great day of golf.

Pour It

Traditionally I wait till after Thanksgiving to pour the first glass of Egg Nog. But with the new Pumpkin Egg Nog, I couldn't wait. Happy Thanksgiving to me!

Branded

We had a great five year celebration party this past Friday night with Upward Flag Football. We had great help from the Va. Baptist Disaster Team (no, we didn't have a disaster) in cooking large amounts of food, as well as the Outdoor Ministry Team of Cool Spring Church (see http:trophytalk.blogspot.com).

In part of the celebration, we painted the Upward "U" and the number "five" on the fields for the kids during game day. It was local branding at its best. It was our way of promoting Upward and doing something different for game day to remind people this was our fifth year celebration.

Branding your logo and getting it out for others to see is a great tool. It promotes who and what you are about as a ministry or organization. The logo non-verbally communicates your message. We have several logos we use in our Rec Ministry that promote the main mission of Cool Spring Recreation as well as sub logos for particular areas.

In thinking about branding, we have to ask ourselves, "What are we, as individuals, branding?" When people see us, do they see who or what controls us? Are we reflective of the Christian nature that Jesus speaks of in the New Testament? A simple logo verse is found in 1 Corinthians 10:31 - Whether you eat or drink, whatever you do, do it for the glory of God. As a follower of Christ, remember someone paid the ultimate price for your logo. Someone poured out sweat and tears over it. Someone created the perfect design for it. That someone was Christ, therefore, promote it well.

Thoughts from Today

I'm going through Romans in my quiet time. Here are some thoughts from today and Romans 12 that stood out to me:

• v1 - presenting myself and my body as a living sacrifice is my part of my spiritual service of worship
• v2 - don't chase the world; practice the discipline of renewing my mind so that I reflect Christ and that which is good
• v3 - humility - never elevate myself over others
• v5-8 - work together with others and their gifts
• v9 - hate evil, cling to what is good; grab goodness as tightly as I can, because our society and world is doing away with it
• v12 - rejoice in hope - be thankful for Christ who is hope
• v12 - persevere in tribulations - don't quit
• v12 - devoted prayer - pray, pray, and pray
• v15 - connect with and walk alongside of others; those who are rejoicing and those who are weeping
• v.16 - wisdom is not you - don't be wise in your on estimation (this goes back to prayer)
• v18 - have good relationships - as it depends on me, be at peace with others
• v19-20 - God will deal with vengeance (let him do it)
• 21 - good overcomes evil

Take time to reflect on these. And take time to get alone with God in order to reflect.

Cybex Machine

We have added a new fitness piece to our cardio fitness room thanks to Capital Fitness Systems. It's a Cybex Recumbent Stationary Bike. This machine has multiple programs and a space for reading materials while working out. As I talked about several posts ago, we are working to re-create our space and add some machines to enhance the use of our guests. Thanks to Hobie and guys at Capital Fitness Systems for working with us. We will also be adding an Elliptical and new television in the coming weeks.

Pig Skin Party

We are tailgating this Friday night at Cool Spring Church in order to celebrate 5 years of Upward Flag Football with Cool Spring Baptist and New Hanover Presbyterian. It will be a Pig Skin Party to include over 800 people, all beef hot dogs, bar-b-que, sides, and fun. Following the tailgate event we have a section reserved for the Hanover vs. Atlee football game.

It has been a great 5 years for our Flag Football league. We have had great leadership - Ernie Leistner, Donna Browne, Bryan Berry and Cheryl Martin. As well as other league commissioners and hundreds of great coaches, ref's, and concession workers. But most of all we have had great kids and parents participating. We have seen growth and development throughout the years, both physically and spiritually. In reflecting on the mission of Upward, to introduce children to Jesus Christ, I can say that we have seen the fruits of many laborers.

Happy 5 years and I look forward to another season. It's time to party Friday night! (Go Han.... well I'll leave it at that)

Focus

One of my struggles I battle is focus. Maintaining a proper focus can be difficult with all the things going on around me. From adult league play, fitness classes, facility issues, Upward sports, and volunteers; I simply allow the non-essentials to overtake the essentials of my purpose and task ahead of me.

I remember playing sports and my coaches teaching me to have focus: keep my eye on the ball in order to get a good hit in baseball or focus on the mid section of an opposing player in order to play solid defense in football or basketball. Having a good focus will eliminate the "fake" that another player can put on you or even swing at a pitch that will fool you.

Hebrews 12 talks about "keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith." To many times I find myself looking at outside distractions (though some have to be dealt with) that I am unable to really see what God is doing in and around me. When our focus is weighed down by the troubles of this world and our daily grind, we lose sight of the finish line that God has for us - the presence of Himself.

Staying focused, that is focusing on God's plan and directives, is a discipline that has to be practiced. It's setting our minds on the things of the Spirit and allowing Him to control the view ahead of us. So, in this busy life, let's discipline ourselves to remain focused on God's directives, and not the distractions (troubles, struggles, and inadequacies) of our daily lives.

Trophy Talk

Check out this new blog by my friend Greg Edmonds. Greg is one of our Outdoor Ministry leaders and in this blog he talks about his experiences with the outdoors and how they relate to his life with Christ. Check it out: http://trophytalk.blogspot.com/

Number 3

One of the biggest kids on our Upward team is Offensive Coordinator Steve Jones. For years now, Steve has lobbied for coaches to get rid of the polo shirts and wear the jersey. Well, after years of debate and requests, Steve was presented his own jersey by our friends at Upward. Congratulations Steve! And by the way, good play calling Saturday. Big win for the Bengals!

Hall Of Fame

Spent the day at the Va Sports Hall of Fame in Portsmouth, VA with some of the guys who work in the Cool Spring Rec Center / Ministry. Going to the Hall was a great time to reflect on the days and players of old. The fellas reminisced about memories of former games that spanned a variety of generations. As well as played in the Nascar simulated driving game, shot baskets, threw speed pitch baseballs, and tossed footballs. It was a great day in downtown Portsmouth.

As I think about the Hall of Fame, I am reminded of those in scripture that God declares as Hall of Fame people - Hebrews 11. By their faith and lives, people like Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and other people are mentioned to provide for us a model in how we should walk by faith and live a life pleasing to God. As these athletes represent something significant to their sport, how awesome it would be for us to to be remembered for the significance of our faith.

We should strive to live a life with the anticipation of hearing God speak these words to us,"Well done thy good and faithful servant."

"Flippin" Out

Partnering with other organizations is part of our recreation ministry at Cool Spring. I have found it to be a great advantage to work with others rather than try to reinvent the wheel and brand my own stuff. One of the partnerships we have is with the Washington Wizards of the NBA. And today, I, along with Steve Rowe (adult basketball director) and Michael Curley (Upward basketball director), had lunch with head coach "Flip" Saunders. We, along with others, were able to hear about the pre-season preparations, game day decisions, and outlook for the this season. Check out the Wizards at www.washingtonwizards.com for more insight.

We have been working with the Wizards over the past year to provide NBA basketball action for our men's adult league and Upward children's league. Through this partnership we have been able to develop deeper relationships/friendships with those playing in our adult league. Often we have people playing that are not connected to Cool Spring and this provides an avenue of getting to know them better on a personal level. They love basketball and we love getting to know them. For the Upward league, it provides a family outing event and excitement for a young player. From the lights, to the introductions, the court, and the big players, the kids get to see it up front and personal. It's a way for us to minister to them while generating dreams for some.

Looking for partnerships that help enhance your recreation ministry is important. Knowing what your mission is, and finding a good partner, will aid you going deeper with your ministry. Look around and see who can help you do that.

Who's Included?

Who's included? Who's in our group? Who's on our radar? Who's not connecting with us?

Over the last few weeks I have heard the challenge from Gary Baker-Acts 2 class teacher- and others (as well as myself in a recent sermon) to engage people and connect with them for the purpose of sharing the Christ changing life with them. While I agree with this, the above questions often haunt me.

Several years ago Donald McGavran introduced the concept called "homogeneous principle." This prinicple stated that people were willing to come together based on their similarities. While McGavran identified a correct principle, we have to be cautious in our approach to it. If we are not careful in using this approach, we will find ourselves creating relationships and programs in order to reach ourselves. There is another approach to how we connect with people - the Medici effect. The Medici effect happens when you are at a place of multiple cultural intersections, where learning and innovation are heightened. It's being with people that are different from us in their backgrounds and worldviews that requires us to grow in the discipline of personal development.

A recreation ministry, or church, should seek to place itself in the heart of the Medici effect. For it's in this place where we find ourselves wrestling with the question of whether or not we are intentionally including people in our lives that make us uncomfortable. Are we spending time with people and pouring ourselves into others that may challenge our thinking, who don't fit our conventions, who are marginalzed and considered misfits with certain lables? Certainly the homogeneous principle makes life easier. It allows us to connect in a comfortable manner with people we typically want to be involved with. But throughout the life of Christ, we find the Medici effect. He engaged them in an expression of love and genuine conern for them physically and spiritually.

So, even as I reflect, who's in your group? Who's on your radar? Who's not connecting with you becuase of a homogeneous approach? Are you allowing Christ's love and power to take you out of your comfort zones in order to meet with others?

Values Kids Learn

In response of yesterdays post on "Why Kids Drop Out," here is a list of "Values Kids Learn Through Sports."

1. Appreciation for an active lifestyle
2. Positive self-concept through mastering skills
3. Teamwork
4. Social Skills
5. Leadership
6. Responsibility
7. How to handle success and disappointment
8. Fair play and sportsmanship
9. Respect for others

Dropping Out

Currently I am looking at some materials regarding the role of parents in youth sports for a discussion topic I am leading in an upcoming event. I found these statements relating to "Why Kids Drop Out" from a study by the University of Michigan.

Dropout Rates in Youth Sport = 70% drop out by age 14 and 50% drop out by age 12

1. Too much criticism from coaches
2. Lack of fun
3. Overemphasis on winning
4. Lack of playing time
5. Injuries
6. Conflicts with other activities

While I could comment on each of these points, it is worth reviewing the sport activity your child may be in and how it is carried out from the moment they hit the playing surface to the connection they have with a coach.

Are the youth of today being pushed to the point of drop out?

The Right People

In Jim Collins book, Why the Mighty Have Fallen, he points out several areas in which great companies over the last few years have begun to slide or even fallen from that which made them great. One of the reasons is not having the right people in the correct positions.

Having the right people in the right positions is critical to any ministry or job. To often we find holes that need to be filled and we simply fill them. Creating potential problems for the organization and the person. In a sense, we plan for failure.

In our recreation ministry we are dependant on volunteers and people. We have positions available at the Rec Desk, League Programs, Fitness Teachers, and our Upward Sports Leagues. Each of these examples requires that the right people are filling the right position. We need people who understand hospitality, administration, communication, and relational ministry with others. When seeking new volunteers it is important to lay out key positions for those interested and make sure there is a fit. Knowing the persons ability and giftedness helps assist in proper placement.

You may have some holes needing to be filled. Do not be tempted to fill them so you can say they are filled. Fillings are temporary and eventually you will be forced to deal with the harder issue: did the right person find the best fit? ,if you have found the right person, put them to work. Nothing stifles a person ready to exercise their skills and gifts than waiting for something to do.

FYI - We are looking for people to partner with us in recreation. We need coaches, ref's, and rec desk volunteers. Let me hear from you!

Where Am I with People?

A few of my thoughts from my message yesterday entitled The Habit of Relationships leads to the Discipline of Evangelism. Text from the life of Jesus and the Women at the well in John 4:1-42.

• Jesus takes the initiative to engage the woman - v. 7 Jesus found a common connection to create a conversation starter....water
• Despite his circumstance, Jesus still engaged the woman - v.6 -Jesus was at the well to rest and was weary, yet he put his needs away to meet hers.
• Jesus took a chance. He crossed the cultural norm - v.9 - Knowing that Jesus, a man and Jew, was not supposed to talk to her, he took the chance for the purpose of sharing his story. How often do we take a chance on people despite what others may say or the barriers we create about people based on our views, hurts, prejudices, etc.?
• Physical needs always lead to spiritual needs - v.10-11- Relationships allow us to meet people where they are. When we engage in a genuine relationship, we begin to see the physical needs people have that allows for the openness of of their emotional and spiritual needs.

Jesus was about people. He was about relationships. Where in your life are people?

Bistro Du Coin and Rob Bell

Saturday night I, along with my wife and two other couples, had the opportunity to go to Washington DC for a night of fine food, fellowship, and a great discussion topic.

After reading several books by Rob Bell, Pastor in Grand Rapids Michigan, we headed up to hear him speak on his new book - Drop Like Stars. Not really knowing I was there for two hours of discussion, Rob unpacked our thinking process in how we view suffering and persecution in our lives. He creatively invited us into the discussion through video background, bars of soap for sculpting, and golf pencils to be used for writing with the opposite hand. Through each of these elements, we, the crowd on the campus of George Washington Univ., grasped a better understanding of how suffering and pain can be used to shape our lives and share our story of God's love with those right beside us.

The discussion was great! But the food..oh the food was awesome. We began our night at the Bistro Du Coin - a french restaurant located in downtown DC. There I enjoyed the fine food that consisted of smoked mackrel with salad, moules rouqefort, and duck breast with gravy and flan. Being the want-a-be chef I am, it was amazing. And to think after all that, I stayed awake to be inspired.

Relational

I've been working on a sermon message for this week entitled The Habit of Relationships leads to the Discipline of Evangelism (the title is actually longer than the message). It is part of a continuing series we are doing about creating space for the spiritual disciplines.

This is probably my favorite topic. I am a relationship kind of person. I'm interested in people and enjoy people watching and learning about people. In this message, on Sunday October 11,(if you can not come check it out online at www.coolspring.org) I will be showing the importance of relationships through the life of Christ.

Recreation and Sports is relational. It creates opportunities for us to meet people where they are and interact with them in a common way. It provides us the opportunity to be transparent, real, and genuine as we play, work, and spend time with others through recreation outlets. It also provides us insights into the lives of others as they reveal their strengths and weakness through their particular outlet (just this week our team dealt with an over abundance of confidence in one adult player that led to frustration for another). We can also begin to learn of their physical needs as well as their emotional needs. It's then we are able to share the Christ life experience with them.

So, whatever recreation activity you participate in, take time to be relational with someone. It's a discipline that will be rewarding....for you and the other person!

Call It

The compliment for any ref or umpire would be to be told, "I didn't even know you were out there." Good officials know that there job is to keep the game in motion and create as little distraction or attention to themselves as possible. Despite the wave of emotions that are handed to them by the unstable fans from play to play, they must remain confident and secure in the task on the playing surface. As a baseball umpire for over 10 years, I have always said that any coach would become a better coach if they would officiate for one season.

In our Upward sports leagues our officials are volunteers. Yes they are provided training and direction specific to the league rules and purpose of our league. We strive (with continual need for improvement) to be sharp and crisp in the the way they interact with the coaches, players, and other participants. An official needs to make the call with confidence and clarity. It is their job to ensure that the game stays in motion and they make the proper calls that allow that to happen. But it is also part of their job to work with the kids on the field: to encourage and assist them in their sport development. While the coaches will have an impact on the child throughout the season, we also realize that in one moment on the field an official can motivate a child "to give it another shot, step it up, or comment on their great play or speed." Making sure your officials know their role and task is part of communicating to others that you take their child and their child's experience serious. It's another part of impacting someones life.

Great job to our officials for giving of themselves each Saturday to invest in the lives of others.

(The above model in the picture sporting our ref shirt is one I heckle and jaw with. And make no mistake about it, she throws the flag on me in a hurry)

Cost of a Bathroom Experience

Over the last week I have had the opportunity to attend the Va State Fair and travel to South Carolina. In each of these two events, I have found a similar theme..the cost of a bathroom experience.

Between the years 2001-2005, my family and I lived overseas and traveled throughout several countries. What I learned about living outside the U.S. was that it cost to use the restroom! Every time I entered the "WC" or washroom, I would have to leave a tip to the person sitting at the entrance. I was never really sure they were cleaning the facility, but they were employed...by me and others needing to desperately hit the "WC."

Well four years later, the trend has hit the U.S. At the state fair and in the Charlotte Airport I was hit by the urge. So, in both locations, I walked in and there it was - the cost of a bathroom experience. An elderly man in one location and a young man in another. I began to debate this in my mind as to whether I should tip or not and reflected of how it was overseas. My bathroom experience has now moved to the side of anxiety as to how will I face the men waiting for me to leave. Finally, after much debate, I walked out with my head up strong while greeting the two men knowing that I had given financially to the cause (still not sure what they do).

I guess we are just getting closer to a universal world. We have now taken up the habits of other countries. But, on the positive in this financial hardship, I have to give the guys props for finding a way to make a living. And I found joy in supporting their ambition.

IMAC

Out at the Mac store watching my oldest son purchase his dream - a MacBook Pro. He has worked hard over the last 6 months in terms of research and jobs and is ready to take the plunge. He has learned the value of hard work, patience, and how fast HIS money can spend!

Good Meeting

I know you think I've lost my mind, but I love a good meeting. A good meeting consist of a well planned approach, the right people involved for the meeting, and no rabbit chasing. That's what my time at Upward Unlimited consisted of... A Good Meeting.

The discussion was open between Recreation ministers (like myself and others from the east coast to the west coast) and the Upward staff, to the President of Upward and the people responding to our daily needs to develop a league. When you know how to ask the right questions and address the hard issues, as well as celebrate the good things, you can have an effective meeting. And good leaders know how to incorporate both aspects.

Upward continues to be a well run organization that impacts local communities across the United States. They need to be commended for their mission to introduce children to Jesus Christ and their work ethic to ensure they are producing the best leagues possible within their mission.

For more information visit www.upward.org.

Upward Bound

In about an hour I will be heading to Upward Unlimited to meet with other Recreation Ministers and the development team of Upward Unlimited (former Cool Spring Rec Minister Doug Grote).

I am excited about meeting with this group of people because we will be talking about how to continue our development of Upward in our communities. Meeting with others is a great way for us to share and brainstorm where we are in the development of our leagues and where we want to be in the next few years. We have had continual growth, but we also face challenges and its in these settings that we can talk about them and discover new approaches to become better.

We have been blessed over the years with great volunteer directors, players, and their families. And we have become a part of the Hanover community. I look forward to seeing us strengthen our leagues and move forward in our future.

FYI - Sign Up Now for Upward Basketball and Cheerleading at www.upwardhanover.org. We also have a NEW CHALLENGER DIVISION for basketball ages 6-13.

Facility Impressions

Every facility makes an impression. That impression comes from the facility itself or people. First impressions are important.

We are constantly striving to make sure our equipment, restrooms, exercise rooms, and track are up to date in terms of safety and appearance. Not only do we have to abide by certain codes, but we have to provide our people with a quality experience. Choosing a facility to use will depend on the cleanliness of it and the quality of it. Although there are many pieces of equipment I would love to have as an upgrade, we have been fortunate to have purchased quality commercial equipment that has lasted. When people see you have invested in them, they in turn will invest back in you. And that allows us to accomplish our mission of connecting with them.

The most important impression you will make on your guests is through your people. The people who work your facility are vital in determining if you will keep your guests. There are several options regarding the people who work the facility: volunteers, part time, interns, and paid staff. We are a volunteer run facility that provides staffing every three hours from 5:30 am - 9 pm. We have been blessed to have people who love connecting with our community and serving in a passion. We take it seriously that our volunteers stay equipped in the area of first impressions. They know that the interaction they have with our guests creates an impact. And we want that impact to be personal and relational. When your staff knows your mission and purpose - the reason why you have a facility - then you enable them to serve those coming to workout, play games, or hang out.

Remember an impression last, and it only takes a moment for one to be formed.

Functional Space

Part of facility management is ensuring proper spacing for those using the facility. And of course, the more room options you have, or don't have, the more adjusting / planning you have to do. Depending on the number of people you service and at what times they prefer to workout can determine your set up and options.

With the current size of our weight room facility and the number of people using it, we are making some adjustments. We will be moving our cardio machines (treadmills, bikes, etc) to the fitness/aerobic space upstairs. This will allow us to not only promote cardio workout in one area, but it will enable us to service our guests better.

Providing a functional facility creates a welcoming and safe environment. And that is part of facility planning.

Pre- D

Every facility has to have standards and expectations. Standards and expectations help us communicate to those using the facility what kind of environment and atmosphere we want to create. From welcoming guests to facility hours / limitations and attitudes and actions.

Part of establishing standards and expectations allows for you to invest in peoples lives. Whether people say it or not, people want and need direction. It is a great way to clearly communicate and teach a pre-discipleship process. Many who use our facility are struggling with life issues surrounding authority and responsibility. By providing and expecting adherence to our facility guidelines is a great way to help them develop in each of these areas. However, it is important to remember that our goal is not to create a culture of people who simply respond to our restrictions, but rather have a change of heart in regard to authority, responsibility, and expectations of living within a community. The same change each follower Christ also had to make in order to begin a relationship with Him - that's why it is pre-discipleship.

Having some standards and expectations will help you develop a ministry process. In other words, put together a policy manual. It's a must for all involved.

Hit My Friends Thought

You have to hit Danny Franks blog today - it relates to the world most of us live in. Go to http://dannyfranks.wordpress.com/

Why Do They Come Here?

I have the opportunity to oversee a great facility. It includes hardwood courts, weight room, fitness room, game room, track, cafe area, and locker rooms. The vision of Cool Spring was forward thinking when they designed this facility in 2002. Great job!

But what was even better was the vision for use of this facility. (Yesterday I spoke about determining your purpose). A vision that allowed the purpose of the Cool Spring Rec Center to impact people of our community by offering recreation and leisure with the companionship of Christ. Therefore, we are an open Rec Center to our community. So we plan and organize our leagues, programs, and schedules in such a way that our community (the community of Cool Spring Church and the community of Mechanicsville / Richmond) can participate together.

There is much debate among facilities (both community and church related) of who will be allowed to use the facility. Several thoughts of usage would include membership only, membership and guests, or open to community. And each of these has positive and challenging discussions. As someone interested in impacting the people who I live around, I favor the open policy. The open policy allows us as a church to meet with people right where there are. By offering recreational activities that people enjoy and are attracted to, we allow ourselves the opportunity to participate with them. And when we are participating with the community we are sharing life with them.

In a recent study of those attending our facility, it was identified that those using our facility came from thirty (30) different zip codes. Wow - sometimes I have to ask myself why would they drive from all those locations. And the answer is simple: It's because the community has found a place that is passionate about using recreation to connect with them! It's a place where they know people want to invest in them through leagues and healthy lifestyles. And it's a place where they will be introduced and taught to live in a growing relationship with Christ.

Determine your purpose and let it guide you in the use of your facility.

Facilities

Facilities are great! They allow and provide so many opportunities for connecting with people. Facilities can range from a simple gym to a full size fitness center. Facilities can also support other opportunities as well; such as concerts, programs, and community events. With a good facility a lot can happen.

But with a facility comes planning. Because of the amount of options that can be provided, it is important to decide how your facility will be used and schedule ahead of time. There will be many opinions, but when you determine what your ministry and facility's purpose, then you can better determine how you will schedule to accomplish that purpose.

First step in facility planning: determine your purpose.

Over the next few days we will talk more about facilities. To get a better understanding of facility use, come by the Cool Spring Rec Center and be our guest.

People's Needs

This past week I preached on the discipline of service as part of our creating "space" for God series. In this message I talked about living the gospel message of Loving God and Loving Neighbors. A message our world needs to see and experience.

Well today God challenged me with the same task I spoke about. I love God's sense of humor and call upon our lives. As I was at work today, I had an opportunity to meet a hurting women in need. And in that opportunity I was challenged to respond. That response involved meeting her physical needs (shower, cleaning supplies, meal). It was through those needs that I was able to address her spiritual needs. That despite her circumstances, God loves her and wants an intimate relationship with her. Wow - isn't God great in how He teaches us specific spiritual disciplines and then calls us to live in them!

And for a side note: my Father would have done the same thing - thanks dad for modeling that for me.

Phases

People are at different phases of life. They are in generational phases, trend phases, and spiritual phases. And with each of these phases it is yours and my responsibility to figure that out. Meaning, we have to care enough about them to know their likes and dislikes, as well as their preferences, and their belief system. And that takes work. It's called investing.

The Outdoor Ministry Team in our Recreation ministry has done a great job of establishing themselves as a group of people who care about those connected to the outdoors, no matter what phase of life they are in. Just this past week following a sermon on the spiritual phases of people, a team leader emailed me in questioning whether we were offering the right kind of bible studies that would impact the people we are connecting to. Simply, he was thinking about making sure we were reaching people on a spiritual level where they actually were; not with the material (or wardrobes - see Tuesday's post) that we thought would make us look or sound good.

The process of connecting with people doesn't begin with answers. It starts with good questions! Great job to our Outdoor Team for digging deep on this issue.

The Investment of People

As we continue to talk about people, one of the best parts about being a Recreation Minister is the opportunity I have to invest in others and allow them to lead in their passions. It always excites me to see people catch a vision, combined with their passion and a growing heart for God and people, and lead an effective ministry.

Steve Rowe is one of my peeps. His not only a peep, he is my ministry associate. Steve is the kind of guy that exhibits service and can handle most any facility issue that comes our way. If you don't have a Steve Rowe, well you need to find one. Service oriented and facility skilled people are a must in the area of recreation, but Steve also has a heart to impact peoples lives.

Last night we started our league play for Adult Basketball. We run two leagues - 16 and up and 30 and up - and they consists of roughly 200 players combined. As I walked in the Rec Center last night and Steve was organizing the first night of play, I couldn't help but see a banner he had done that was wrapped across the scoreres table. The banner said, "What am I here for.." It was great. Steve had strategically placed this banner where every player would have to see it as they checked in and out of the game. Not only that, but Steve led the before game devotion with the same question! Wow - my man Steve intentionally seeking God in order to impact peoples lives. He challenged these men to ask themselves this question and shared with them that over the next few weeks, together, they will discover the answer.

People - there is no minstry without them and you can not minister without them. Find someone today and invest in them for the purpose of them investing in others.

What We Wear

Face it, we are concerned about what we wear. What we wear can define us, create opportunities for us, or even hurt us. I'm even amazed at how much people even get paid to wear certain clothes for a few moments of advertising. In our culture, and others, clothes represent status...and we know how much status matters.

So, what are we wearing? What are you wearing? Are we wearing the things that people suggest we should do - like certain programs, leagues, facility designs, etc. In Dave Gibbons book, The Monkey and the Fish, he points out an interesting thought about wardrobes. We get so hung up in the current trends, whether that is clothes or ministry options, that no matter the size of the outfit we wear it anyway. We wear these clothes because we don't really know any other clothes to wear and because people tell us that's what we should wear.

The question we need to ask ourselves is, "What really motivates us to do the things we do?" Why do you, as a recreation ministry or as a person, do what you do? Are we more motivated to look more like others, or are we willing to try a new pair of clothes that may fit us better? In determining who we are and where we are, we have to be willing to be different and find the fit that God has for us. In the end, your ministry, your look, your life may be different than others. But as long as it fits God's purpose, you can wear it well!!

Speaking of Discipline

This Sunday I am preaching on the Spiritual Discipline of Service. While I would love to give you all my thoughts now, I can't. Come to Cool Spring Church on Sunday or listen online at www.coolspring.org.

Just a quick thought on people in regard to service. No matter how big a recreation ministry becomes - leagues, camps, fitness classes, or facilities - it is about serving others - people. Our greatest model was that of a King (Jesus) who simply grabbed a towel and starting washing others nasty feet (John 13). Service is the greatest expression of our love toward others.

3rd Culture

Yesterday I mentioned the idea of "Third Culture" and working in a recreation ministry that embraces third culture. So, what is third culture? Third culture is a term used by sociologists and foreign service workers whose children are immersed in foreign cultures because of their parents work.

My kids had the opportunity to be "third culture kids." For several years we lived overseas working in sports development. While living over seas, our kids had to come to terms with their indigenous culture, all the while assimilate into a new culture which we moved them to (A North African country with little English). As our boys have grown older, they have a higher sensibility about embracing and bridging cultural differences. They have learned to adapt and relate to people who are vastly different from them. They have learned to value and treasure the diversity of people and their cultures. They now understand a worldview from God's perspective.

The question to ask is: How well do we adapt to new creative ways of embracing new people? Is it a struggle? Is it accepted? Think about it and let me hear from you.

Peeps

Let's continue this discussion about impact and people. A focused recreation ministry should attract people. This week we are hosting our adult basketball league team meetings. It's the time when we gather all those playing and introduce each other and go over our mission and purpose of the league, along with league rules. We want to establish early on our desire to connect with them and play with them.

After the meeting was over a friend of mine came to the office and jokingly said, "this place is like a zoo out there." As we both laughed, I simply responded, "that's third culture baby!" As I thought about his statement and my response, I passionately was reminded that's what I want people to say. Because inside of a zoo are all kinds of creatures with all shapes., sizes, and shades of color. And in fact my friend was right. The rec center was full of people that didn't look alike, act alike, and think alike.

But what they all have in common is that they are our neighbors - our peeps living around us. You see the concept of neighbor is misunderstood. A neighbor is often thought to be someone who thinks like us, acts like us, and talks likes us. But that is not who are neighbors are or who Jesus defined our neighbors to be. In the culture we live, neighbors are becoming more different than ever and we need to learn to connect with them in a variety of ways. It is said in Luke 10, "Love God and love your neighbor." A recreation ministry/facility that is open to this command, will be a recreation ministry/facility that will be open to their neighbors. And that's third culture baby!

Impact

There is an extreme amount of evidence that recreation and leisure are impacting our culture. We are a recreation and leisure culture. And impacting our culture is what we as Christians are called to do. Therefore, recreation ministry impacts culture. It meets people where they are and connects with them for the purpose of physical and spiritual development.

As we begin to move through a series of topics, let me begin with what is impacted through a recreation ministry - people! Without people there is no ministry. People are participating on multiple levels. They are on team and league sports, individual competition levels, and group exercise classes to name a few. It's in these venues that we are able to connect with people and have a positive impact on their lives. It's an impact that provides people with not only physical changes needed in this life, but spiritual changes that are needed for this life and eternity.

So, meet them where they are - the gyms, the courts, the fields, and community events. Whether you realize it or not, you are impacting someone in someway.