Priorities...

Everybody is on the move. We are moving forwards, backwards, or maybe even on a treadmill (which I need to do more). The mistake people often make is thinking that the goal in life to stay busy. This kind of thinking traps us and devours our time and efforts. What is important is not whether a person is busy, but whether he is maintaining priorities and progressing. It's the difference between activity and accomplishment.

For those that know me, you know I definitely don't need one more thing to do. Yet, in my crazy schedule, it's important that I maintain family as a priority. I've realized that if I wait for the perfect conditions or situations, I could very well not spend much time with them at all. I pray that in all our pursuits of life...we don't forget what is most important. It would be a shame to have more memories of life and work than we do of our investment in our families. I might even have missed my son's touchdown! There's nothing I like more than seeing my kid's excel in what they love. So, whether it's a touchdown, a kill in volleyball, or a concert...I don't want to miss the memories that will last for a lifetime!

Just thoughts...

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.