Decisions...

Everyday we ALL make decisions. We are confronted with options and it forces to pick one option or the other. I've examined myself and have began to ask some hard questions. Why do I make the decisions I do? Why do I pick one option over the next? Well, I know that I don't have all the answers, but there are some guidelines I am trying to abide by. Here's a few:

- to be decisive and not indifferent
- to take risks over security
- to choose determination over discouragement
- to do for others instead of myself
- to maintain priorities over ambiguity
- to steer instead of merely drifting

If I really want to place myself in the life's destinations that God has for me...then I need to do my part. I pray that I, and all of you, have the strength and courage to always make the RIGHT decisions...

Transition...

Transition...blessing or curse?

As I look ahead to the next several months, transition is about all I see. I had a wonderful conversation with a close friend last night and then spent several hours meditating on the idea of change. Good...Bad??? I came to this conclusion. If we want the things we build to last, we have to build them to change. Change should be a core value in all we do. I think we too often think the things we build should last longer than they do.

So, with all that in mind. I want to begin this new season with this in mind. Change is critical to mission, value, image, and faith. It should be built into the DNA of who we are and what we become. I know that there will be sacrifices along the way, but I think the difficulty experienced and the time spent will reap huge dividends!

Lastly, my mediation reminded me of one of my own core values. The reality that everyone matters and God has called me to leave His imprint on this world. I pray it's significant!!

What Matters Most

Well, it's finally been announced and I am wondering what my new responsibilities will bring. There has been some restructuring in my position and I am giving leadership to our children's department as well as the youth. I'm sure we all try and prioritize our time, but it seems of the essence right now. What do I do first? What will make the biggest impact? Where should I devote the majority of my time? The questions keep coming.

I know that while there will never be enough time in a day to get all the work done, I find myself trying to make sure I take care of what is most important. For me it boils down to relationships...God, family, friends...etc So, I'm on my quest! I'm asking God to bring health to every area of my life. It's great to always know that His hand is NEVER too short.

I need to say something...

Today I have traveled to Memphis, TN to spend some time with my two sisters and my oldest brother. It's rare we are all together, so my wife and family sacrificed for me to spend some time with them. It was great seeing everyone. I wish we could do it more often.

It's been a long time since I have taken the time to write anything. I realize this is short. It's just to let everyone know that I AM still alive. I guess I had to take the time to say something.

What did he say?

I've been attending a conference that is designed to better prepare myself and other district youth directors for the job that we do. Now, I'm sure everyone has experienced what I am getting ready to mention. We have sat and listened to some communicate home runs, while others not so much. I've been here 8 days so far and I definitely know this to be true. =0)

So, what does this mean? It causes me to evaluate myself and my communication skills. Just like many of my readers, my success is directly connected to my ability to communicate clearly. The ability to help someone take a journey and see the benefits of adapting change to their lives. So, what's the key? Rather than rob someone's theory, I'll point everyone in the right direction. I have read Andy Stanley's book, "Communication for a Change" three times. It certainly has made a monster difference in me.

I'll end by saying this, if you are going to take to time to get up in front of people to speak, then have something to say!! We need to be determined to never be satisfied and develop the tenacity it requires to be the best!

Leadership...

The more and more I find myself traveling, the more I realize how important time really is. Let me explain. When you have what appears to be less and less time to accomplish all that needs to be done, it becomes crucial that we begin to prioritize and make the most of every moment.

My thought for today is on leadership. What are we doing to invest in the people around us? Are we making a difference? If we don't, someone will! It might seem like a mountain of a task, but it's easier when we do it together! Check out this video.

Another great day...

Have you ever had the opportunity to regurgitate vision and future plans over and over during the span of a couple weeks? Well, I have had that incredible experience and on this part of my journey, I'm starting to give form to the ambitions God has laid on my heart. In a day and time when most people are looking for ways for others to serve them, I want to create a culture of leaders that are in direct conflict with this very notion. A culture of leaders that find it organic to look beyond themselves and see the big picture. I truly think it's inside of us all; this overwhelming desire to be a part of something much bigger than ourselves. I find myself internally asking so many questions. What does this look like? How can we capture such an idea amongst our leaders? How do we get this started? How do we develop buy in?

So many questions to answer, never the less, another great day...

I was thinking...

As I travel the state of Illinois trying to do my best to promote missions, I have had the opportunity to express some of the thoughts that I have written about in the last few blogs. The whole subject of community and that being on a journey with someone makes it that much more rich. I have to admit, I've been quite blessed by the receptivity. It would appear to me that all of us are looking for genuine relationships. Of course, that's stating the obvious.

So, if that is true (which I believe it is), then why don't we pursue those relationships more often? What is it about us that makes us hold back or stay individualized? Maybe I should take a moment to be transparent and tell on myself. For me, I think the times I have chosen to seclude myself has been directly related to one of two issues. Broadly speaking of course (there's always exceptions to the rule). The first being times that life and ministry are going well. When you are on top of the mountain, it doesn't seem that I need as much help. (Contrary to what my wife thinks...she says I need all the help I can get =0) jk) The second is when I feel like I am strapped for time. We all could be better time managers.

Why mention these things? I think we all should take time to reflect and better understand each other. When I'm on the mountain or strapped for time, it could be the very moment someone needs the most attention. I think I want to allow myself the permission and freedom to see beyond my own circumstance. To realize the times that seem most difficult, could in fact be filled with the riches of memories. I can certainly remember many incredible moments that came at inconvenient times. I pray the Lord brings more...AND that I don't miss it!

I was just thinking...

Who do we invest in...

Wow, it's been way too long since I have sat down to blog. I apologize to all of you who have sent tweets, DM's, and emails. It is nice to know that people are tracking me and want to be a part of my life. I value all of you.

Lately, it's been quite the trip. I've been spending lots of time organizing thoughts and asking God for a fresh since of vision amongst the re-structuring where I work. I believe we are in exciting times. What's made it most exciting has been the conversations that have surrounded the fresh vision. It's been incredible to talk to pastors who are willing to link arms and be a part of something much bigger than themselves. That success has not been limited to the place they lead, but reaches far beyond that. Thank you all for being so selfless.

These conversations have also given me the opportunity to look within. Who am I investing in? Who am I asking to invest in me? These are questions we should all ask. Really, don't we begin to emulate those we surround ourselves with? I am determined more than ever to surround myself with selfless people. Those who care about others more than themselves. Being the optimist that I am, I am convinced we can make the world a better place.