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.