as for my blogging hiatus...

I really can say that I haven't felt much like blogging lately.  When I first began blogging I started because I wanted to share my thoughts and feelings with the people that I love (family, Ridge Pointe Church, etc...) but can say with complete honesty that lately it had become a popularity contest for me...how many views in a day?  where are the people from that read this?  

I have come to the point where I have realized and am now trying to act on being the man that God has REALLY called me to be.  Forget the garbage, forget the baggage; whatever it is that's holding me back.  I have to get back to loving our people with complete abandon, putting their needs before my own, and sharing Christ with others.  Every so often God gives all of us a reality check.  We get ahead of where He wants us.  Some of us move back in line, others think that their ideas are above Gods.  It's time for me to move back, get in line, and follow Christ.

When Jesus was going to resurrect Lazarus, Thomas said, "let us go so that we may die with Him" (Anthony Johnson version 2008).  Sometimes it becomes necessary to follow Christ against all conventional wisdom, against ideas of "successful" churches/pastors, and against our own wills and desires.  May God help all of us to have an agenda created and shaped by Christ.

Just Do It

So this past week Ridge Pointe Church had an article written about it in the Spartanburg Herald-Journal.  It seemed for the first day or so that everything we had heard back was positive.  From then on, however, it seemed to take a downward spiral.  While this does not at all bother me, I think it's important to say one thing: no matter what is going on or what others may think, Ridge Pointe is going to do it's absolute best to make sure that what we do and who we are glorifies God completely.  What agenda would be worthwhile if God were not involved?  What plan would work without God in it?  We often joke that all of the rules of church planting have been broken by this church, yet we still seem to succeed.  

Success is not what we think it is.  When I think of the "success" of Ridge Pointe I don't look simply at numbers, but at lives changed.  I think of the countless people that even one year ago would not have stepped foot into a church that are now great partners with us.  I love this church, the people in it, and our mission.  Let's remember to always strive, whether as a church or personally, to follow the mission of Christ: love God, love others, make disciples.

Message Recap from 11/9

This past Sunday I had the opportunity to speak again at Ridge Pointe Church.  Here are some notes from our final message in the series "Fanatic":

-God seeks "true worshipers": John 4:23
-Four characteristics of true worshipers:
1. Worship with awe: Revelation 1:16-17
2. Worship with abandonment: 2 Samuel 6:21-22
3. Worship with intimacy: Psalm 27:4
4. Worship with their lives: Romans 12:1

Hopefully this can jog some memories and help out for our home groups this week.

Sunday Recap 11/9/08

Today was another great day at Ridge Pointe Church.  Also had a great day in general with my wife and some friends.  Here are a few highlights from the day:

-band was once again FREAKING AWESOME.  Great job guys.
-attendance was back up to normal again after being way down the week before.  People either thought I was good or that Shane would be back this week...who knows?
-saw the movie "Fireproof".  Acting was definitely not the greatest, but the movie was actually better than expected.
-had a great time hanging out with Mitch and Candice.  They are both really great youth leaders.  
-really enjoyed being with my wife last night.  She was sick, but it was good to have time just to hang out and be together.

On a side note, I will be glad to be back to putting my full focus The Pointe this week after doing double duty between them and "big people church".

Great Weekend At Ridge Pointe

Yesterday I had the privilege to speak in our main service in the AM.  I always love to speak in "big people church".  It's refreshing for me and motivating all at the same time.  I think anytime you get so used to preaching in one venue that you tend to take it for granted.  Switching it up and speaking yesterday (as opposed to just on Thursday nights) was a blast.  Our people were awesome, responsive, and attentive.  With that said, here are some highlights from yesterday:

-the numbers were down but they were into it
-music was awesome.  Had a dude from the Marshall Tucker band.  UNREAL how good he was
-enjoyed having someone yell "snake handlers" as I referenced my Pentecostal background.  Truly funny stuff
-had to tell them if part of following Jesus was handling snakes then this man would have to "peace out"
-enjoyed having my parents in town to hear my speak

True Love Is Contagious

As I was sitting at my best friends wedding this weekend I couldn't help but smile.  Everyone there was so happy for the couple that was married.  No matter how they personally felt towards marriage, other people, or the couple themselves, every single person there was ecstatic that day.  I realized something then and there at the reception: true love is contagious.  When we see something so pure and real we cannot help but be amazed by it.  Not only are we amazed by it, but we desire it.  How would the lives of those around us changed if we could put on display our true love for God?  Would people be changed?  Is our love for God so pure that other people cannot help but admire and desire it?  My challenge is that if you want to see those people around you changed, what can you do to help them along the way?  Show your love for God through your service and good deeds.  Show your love for God through your interaction with others.  Love your spouse with everything you have.  I promise that if we do then we will change our world and the lives of those around us.

Excited about "Changed"

Let me first say that I am really pumped about this series that The Pointe is getting ready to start on Thursday night.  Here's why: it deals with a man whose life has been drastically changed by Christ.  It's a change of heart, change of attitude, change of perspective...ultimately what is awaiting change is his reputation with people he used to come across.  The book of Philemon deals with a man being restored to others.  It's a story of redemption.  It's my prayer that at the end of these three weeks we will all see the process of change in our lives and put it to action.

New Series Beginning Thursday Night: "Changed"

He became a slave. Who became a fugitive. Who came to know Christ. And overcame it all. Hear the story of Onesimus, the slave who betrayed Philemon, and the passionate efforts of Paul to convince Philemon to change his mindabout this truly changed man.  Join us for the next 3 weeks as we look at a life that was forever "Changed". 

Reaching Teenagers

So I think we have finally gotten to the point where we have to find new ways to reach teenagers.  We have a steady group of roughly 20 every week, but we seem like we have hit a wall with our attendance.  Now lots of people might be happy with a student group of 20 when you have only 3 teenagers with parents in our church, but that couldn't be farther from the truth for me.  I can't help but think that there are sooo many teenagers in Inman, Spartanburg, and the surrounding areas that need a relationship with Christ.  So much work to do...

Remembering The Stones In Your Own Life

Working hands on with a church plant for the past 10 months has taught me a lot.  I had always had a burden to work with a new church (and possibly plant one down the line) so being at Ridge Pointe Church has been the best thing for me.  It's insane for me to look back at the past ten months and evaluate what I have seen and remember all of the lessons that I've learned, whether by my own recognition or what Shane has taught me, and think that it's not even been a year yet.  

I encourage everybody to journal what you have and are learning about yourself and your specific situation.  Take the time to remember, because if you do I promise you will lessen your chances of making the same mistake twice.  Also, take time to write down and remember your "wins".  What has God done for you and the people you come in contact with?  Remembering and reflecting are some of the most powerful tools we can ever hope to have.

"When your children ask in time to come, 'What do those stones mean to you?', then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off.  So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever." (Joshua 4.6-7)

Glorified Delivery Boy

So I've been trying more and more lately to evaluate what I do.  I try to figure out when it comes to preaching what my intent is/was, what God was trying to get across to our group and me as leader, and whether or not I delivered.  A friend once explained to me that being in ministry was like being a "glorified delivery boy".  That same friend also told me that it doesn't matter how it's delivered, but that the delivery boy brings it.  I know it sounds cheesy, but him saying that to me last summer has really meant a lot to me since becoming a youth pastor.  I try to focus on perfection, not realizing that as long as I'm trying my best to hear and be what God is calling me to be that everything will more than work out.

Along with all that, this week I evaluated.  What kept coming to mind was that I constantly qualify what I say when I preach.  I have been feeling the need to make sure that no one gets upset or that everything sounds "correct".  What I realized the other day, and what God has been pounding me with, is that my first job is to be the delivery boy, not necessarily the friend.  My priority must be delivering what God has for His Church, not what makes me more popular in His Church's eyes.  Always be willing to stand for God, no matter what the opposition, whether it comes from yourself or someone else.  Remember, we in ministry are called to be first and foremost a "glorified delivery boy" to our churches.

The Extra Pointe 10.3.08

"Zip It" week 1:  Containing Complaining

-your words reveal the condition of your heart: Matthew 12.34-37

-a negative heart brings negative words, which ultimately results in a negative life

-3 positive promises each of us must make:
1. I will not always hang out with negative people
-...bad company corrupts good character: 1 Corinthians 15.33

2. I will speak words of life
-the tongue has the power of life and death: Proverbs 18.21

3. I will be thankful for what I have
-give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus

New Series Beginning Thursday Night: "Zip It"

Proverbs 18:21 says, "The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences."  Maybe it's time we evaluate what we say, even when nobody's around...

Sunday Recap

Yesterday was awesome.  We baptized a bunch of people yesterday.  It's awesome to see people who are not "church" people come to know God and take it to the next step of being baptized.  One teenager in particular struck a cord with me.  He started coming to church roughly 5 months ago and did not know God.  He has come to be one of the cornerstones of our group and is dedicated.  I can't wait to see what God does in his life and the lives of the other "baptizees" in the future.

Weekend Catch-up

So Sunday night Katie and I got back from our 12 hour drive from northwestern Ohio back to Spartanburg, SC.  It was ok on the way back (definitely much better than the way up).  No popped tires, no wrecks, and the car didn't explode.  Since then I have been sick.  I've now gotten back to the point where I can hold some food down, but my voice is fading.  Be praying for me and for Katie that she doesn't get sick from me.  I don't get sick often, so when I do I am a baby.  I hate being sick.  

Really looking forward to Thursday night.  I really really really missed not being there Thursday night and missing the students.  Everybody show up and be ready for God to do something awesome.  

Oh the Comfort of Comfort Inn

So needless to say, we did not plan on staying at a Comfort Inn tonight.  Katie and I were hoping to make it to Cincinnati by 1 a.m.  Little did we know that on the way there we would get a busted tire and it would be too late to get a replacement.  I blame it on you guys for not praying hard enough for us.  It's all your fault.  (just kidding).  Seriously though, pray for us tomorrow that we make it in time for Katie to get to her friends bachelorette party and we make it safe.  Thanks guys for your prayers.

Excited for This Week

So I'm pretty excited about this week.  Tomorrow night Katie and I will be driving to Ohio for the first time since Christmas.  She is in a wedding this coming Saturday and I will be spending the day Thursday with my family at their house.  I'm pretty stoked to see everyone and be back in the Buckeye state (but only for a few days...much more than that and I don't know if I could handle it).  Be praying for us as we head up there and that we will get back safe.  

Monday Night Football Woes

So last week in the Ridge Pointe Fantasy Football League I DOMINATED!  I was the only one that scored above 100 points.  This week, however, is a totally different story.  Tom Brady is out, Larry Johnson is playing like a girl (no offense to the ladies), and my opponent decided to go insane.  I have Desean Jackson on my fantasy team and he decides to drop the ball at the one yard line instead of getting a touchdown reception.  Also have Marion Barber for the Cowboys who is typically a machine, but has decided to stay home.  Just needed to vent a little.

Volunteer Schedule for 7/21-10/26

I know this is a lot of information at one time, but I figured it best to get it done while I was into it.  If there is a week that you cannot serve that's not a problem, just let me know as soon as you can and I will be more than happy to substitute someone else in.  Thanks for your willingness to serve God and Ridge Pointe Church.  We couldn't do it without you.

9/21/08

Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan

Ushers: Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: Elisa Rogers/Amanda Williams

Preschool/Kindergarden: Kristy Steele

Nursery: April Green

9/28/08

Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan/Lee Neves

Ushers: Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: Elisa Rogers/Marie Steadings

Preschool/Kindergarden: Bonnie Miller

Nursery: Caley England

10/5/08

Greeter: Bonnie Miller/Elisa Rogers

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan/Lee Neves

Ushers: Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: Marie Steadings/Jessica McNeill

Preschool/Kindergarden: Keri Reese

Nursery: TBD

10/12/08

Greeter: Bonnie Miller/Mac McNeill

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan/Lee Neves

Ushers:Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: Elisa Rogers

Preschool/Kindergarden: Kristy Steele

Nursery: April Green

10/19/08

Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan

Ushers:Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: April Green/Marie Steadings

Preschool/Kindergarden: Bonnie Miller

Nursery: Caley England

10/26/08

Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill

Cafe: Evodia Rabadan/Lee Neves

Ushers: Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers/Jason Williams

Kids Pointe Check In: Amanda Williams/Elisa Rogers

Preschool/Kindergarden: Keri Reese

Nursery: TBD

The Extra Pointe 9.11.08

Last week we had an awesome night.  6 teens gave their hearts to Christ last week alone, and this week God followed it up with another one.  We had twenty teens again this week.  We discussed living a new life after accepting Jesus.  I can honestly say it's the first time a teenager has referenced the magazine "High Times" during the sermon.  Some people might read that and be discouraged, but I heard it last night and was freaking thrilled.  We are reaching teenagers who otherwise would not have God in their lives.  I pray God continues this trend that He started a little over eight months ago.  

After a Hiatus

Recap of the past week or so....

-dropped doing sermon series for a little bit.  Not sure how long, but felt God moving The Pointe in a new direction.

-had 6 teenagers give their lives to Christ last Thursday

-last week was the third week in a row we have hit over 15 teenagers.  Pray this streak continues.

-started using Twitter last night.  

-our volunteers have done a bang up job the past three weeks.  I could not be prouder to be a part of something as good as our volunteers have made Ridge Pointe Church.

-excited to have Jon and Bridgette moving to Spartanburg this week.  They are really good at what they do and have a heart to make this the best church ever.  

-Church is going back to one service beginning this week @ 10.00 am.
  
-that's all for now.  Have a great day and make sure if you have a teenager to come check us out this Thursday @ 7.00 til 8.30.

New Series: "Contraband"

Perhaps more impressive than any of the miracles in the Bible is the Bible itself. A collection of 66 books written over a span of 1500 years by over 40 different authors, the Bible remarkably tells one single story. Don’t miss this week as we discover what God’s story is all about and what this means for our own life story. This week we are moving times to 7.00 to 8.30.  Bring a friend and be fired up.  Things are moving, so be a part of the story.

Step Up to a New Challenge

So Jamie Steele, one of the sound guys at RPC, has challenged us as a group yet again.  If we reach 30 teenagers this week Jamie has agreed to let us shave his head to the scalp the following Thursday night.  Lets work hard and get this, because we all know that only I look good with really short hair (even though he wouldn't have any).  

Thanks

Our services went exactly as planned yesterday from start to finish.  With that being said, I cannot thank all of our volunteers enough.  Without every single one of you pitching in and helping out we could not have had such an awesome day.  From the bottom of my heart, every single one of you mean the world to me and to this church.  What you do matters, and the attitude you worked with yesterday was the attitude and heart of Christ.  I could not have asked for anything more.  Thanks guys.

View From The Lock-In

-So we are still at the lock-in...it's 6:45 and I've been up since 7:15 yesterday morning

-About to crash, but we still have another two hours and thirteen minutes left of this marathon 

-SO SLEEPY

-looking forward to the launch on Sunday (nervous/excited/want to throw up/anxious)  

The Time Has Come

So I've really began realizing since Sunday the weight of the situation that Ridge Pointe Church is in...this Sunday we will know what path we are on.  We will see and get a taste of the impact that we as a church can have on the community around us.  It's unreal to me to think that this Thursday we will have somewhere between 10 and 20 teens on Thursday, but what about next Thursday?  30, 40, 50, 70?  Who knows?  

I just have to trust that God is working and that something huge is going to happen (not to mention gameplan for a few different scenarios).  Be praying for us that God would give all of us as individuals and as a church a direction and that we will be absolutely BLOWN AWAY by what God does.  

Selfish

Selfishness is something that comes naturally to all of us.  We often view life and think "how does this affect me?"  Selfishness, however, is a learned behavior.  Join us from 6.30-8.00 for the next two Thursday nights at The Pointe as we discuss what would happen if we began to take the "I" out of our lives.

Monday Night Football!!!

So as I write this I just watched the Bengals score their first touchdown of the 2008 not-really-season.  It's great to have football back.  It's unreal to notice how much you miss something until you see it again.  I just keep smiling over and over and over.  And by the way, all you Aaron Rodgers haters need to SHUT UP.  He looks good (granted the Bengals defense is not that hot an item) but he has a lot of poise and is really putting some zip on the ball.  

FYI For The Schedules

The schedules will be occasionally tweaked/changed.  This will only happen if someone needs off or something changes, but I will do my best to let everyone know about the changes when they happen if they affect you that given week.  Thanks guys and if you have any questions please call me at 201-0953 or email me at anthony@ridgepointechurch.com

Volunteer Schedule for 8/24 and 8/31

Now this schedule will format a little differently from the previous one.  If you are a greeter for these two weeks then we would like it if you could greet for the 1st service and 2nd service.  The catch is that you can leave after you get done greeting 2nd service, making it so you only have to stay for one complete service each Sunday.  This is the same for Kids Pointe Check In and the Parking Lot Greeter.  

Whoever is doing Cafe is being asked to stay in the lobby during the entire 1st service to ensure that everything gets cleaned up and restocked in the Cafe.  So if you work the entire first service you can worship in the 11 o'clock service.  

Volunteers with kids have no need to worry.  During the 2nd service we will have a completely separate room for your kids where they will be able to sit and watch a movie and will be watched by Candy Stone.  This will make less stress for them and you so that they only have to be in one service instead of learning the same thing twice each Sunday.  

If you have any questions about the format or the schedule please do not hesitate to call me at 201-0953 or 472-7016 ext. 102. You can also email me at anthony@ridgepointechurch.com

August 24th (the LAUNCH!!!)

Front Door Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill
Parking Lot Greeter: David Green
Cafe: Evodia Rabadan
Kids Pointe Check In: Elisa Rogers/Jessica McNeill
Preschool: 
9.30: Bonnie Miller
11.00: Kristy Steele
Kindergarden: 
9.30: Keri Reese
11.00: TBD
Nursery: 
9.30: Dawn
11.00: Caley England
Ushers: TBD

August 31st:
Front Door Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill
Parking Lot Greeters: David Green/Jason Williams
Cafe: Evodia Rabadan
Kids Pointe Check In: Marie Steadings/Amanda Williams
Preschool: 
9.30: Bonnie Miller
11.00: Kristy Steele
Kindergarden: 
9.30: Keri Reese
11.00: Lori Crooke
Nursery:
9.30: Dawn
11.00: Caley England

Ushers: TBD

Volunteer Schedule for August 10th and 17th

August 10th:

Greeter: Elisa Rogers
Cafe: Evodia Rabadan
Kids Pointe Check In/Out: Jessica McNeill/Marie Steadings

Preschool/Kindergarden: Bonnie Miller/Kristy Steele
Ushers: Al Rogers/Mac McNeill

Nursery: April Green

August 17th: 
Greeter: Heather Cothran/Mac McNeill
Cafe: Evodia Rabadan
Kids Pointe Check In/Out: Elisa Rogers
Preschool/Kindergarden: Candy Stone
Ushers: Shannon Crooke/Al Rogers

Nursery: Dawn

Attacking the Day

So I've pretty much decided that I'm a lazy person.  I don't like to do much when I get off work.  I really need to study more and spend more time being in the Word.  Because of all of this I now have a new approach that I'm going to try....I'm going to wake up and attack the day.  I want every day to be approached like I am on the offensive.  I want to wake up and begin working for God when I wake up, whether it be through studying, praying, working, or spending time doing God's work with my wife.  Do you attack your day?  Or does it attack you?

A HUGE PROPOSAL

So it's official.  The Pointe has been given a challenge by a partner in our church.  He said that if we get 40 teens in one service on thursday night (before the 24th) then he will let the youth group shave his head COMPLETELY BALD!  Time to step up and represent.  Seriously, this is freaking awesome...lets pull it off!

Sunday Recap

-So had a pretty good day today.  Had a pretty productive volunteer meeting.  We have some really great volunteers who are willing to serve God with their time.  

-Evodia has been awesome in the cafe the past couple months  

-Just got an awesome proposition from Caley to work in the nursery some.  I don't think she knows how big that is for us.  It's hard to get people to work in nursery when very few of them have young babies.  

-excited to see so many teens in service today (10 today).  Our attendance for youth stuff is up which is a plus. 

-found out the music guy from the church I grew up in is moving to Alabama.  He's awesome and I'm sure the church he is going to is going to be blown away by the talent and sincerity he brings to the position.

What A Freaking Blast

So I can honestly say that tonight was about as much fun as I've ever had in ministry.  The teens came out in full force and helped tonight be a freaking awesome night.  Katie and I are so proud of our teens that keep coming out to support our group and have a good time.  Big props to Zach for winning tonight and getting the free trip to Carowinds.  Our 2nd and 3rd place were Samantha and Lydia...come on guys, you gotta represent a little better.  Also, tonight was the first night we used our microphone system and we are gonna keep using it because it's so loud.  I love it and we can also make it to where it echoes.  So cool.

Olympics Tonight

Tonight is the first ever Bizarro Olympics from 7-9.  Remember to wear stuff you can get somewhat dirty and that I need to know if anyone is allergic to any food (I really don't want the teens to die).  Come ready for a good time and weird events.  Should be a blast.

Looking Forward To Tonight

So Thursday is quite possibly my best and worst day of each week.  Every Thursday morning I think about how much I could be a better youth pastor.  "I should have talked to the teens more this week, should have done another event, should've studied more....I hope teens show up".  Every week this is what I go through.  Then when the afternoon rolls around I get so freaking hyped for The Pointe.  I can't wait to see who's going to be there and be a part of what's going on.  We have so much planned and we want everything to work.


Ultimately it comes down to the fact that God has placed a burden on my heart and the heart of my wife to see teenagers lives get changed for the glory of God.  There is all kinds of emotions mixed in with our burdens, but we all have to learn how to manage them.  If I let my burden get the best of me in a bad way then every Thursday I would be down on the world (which occasionally does happen).  The real glory of God is shown when we let our burden move us to action and to an excitement that is attached to the anticipation of what God is about to do.  

The Pointe Event Calendar

Events for the Month of August:

-8/1 @ 7.00 p.m.: Bizarro Olympics

-8/11 @ 9.30 a.m.: Carowinds

-8/22 @ 9.00 p.m.: Lock-In @ the Annex

The Pointe News 7.28.08

So this year we will be having our first ever "Bizarro Olympics" for The Pointe.  Competition will be fierce for a not-so-typical Olympic experience.  We will start at 7.00 and end at 9.00.  The winner gets a free trip to Carowinds on August 11th with the youth group.  The deadline to sign up is this Thursday, July 31st.  (let us know if you're allergic to anything...you never know).   

Also, this week we will be continuing our series "Belief" for week 2 of 3.  This week we will be discussing Losing the Faith looking through the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis.  Remember, we are in the Annex every week from 6.30 to 8.00.  Jump on board now as things are getting ready to pick up.

Mohawkalicious

So I have told the teenagers now for a few weeks that if they got 20 teens at church on a Thursday night that I would let them give me a mohawk and color it whatever they wanted to...well they did it!  I now am the proud owner of a pink mohawk.  Better yet, I have to preach in church on Sunday with the mohawk.  It should be a sight to see.  

Also, saw the new Batman movie today, "The Dark Knight".  BY FAR THE GREATEST MOVIE that I have seen in a while.  They move the characters along so well and develop them as well as any move I've ever seen.  I would recommend this movie to everybody if you are even remotely a fan of this kind of movie.  So much better than I ever could have expected, and I had some pretty great expectations going in to this movie.  

Anywho, hope to see everyone Sunday morning as we continue our series "Blessed".  

Satan Sucks

It amazes me how the devil always seems to pick on those who do the most good.  The question constantly comes up "why do bad things happen to good people".  Some of the best people I know (who may not admittedly be the best Christians) seem to be the ones going through the most garbage, whether it be death, family issues, or debt.  While I don't pretend to know the answers because this stuff even forces me to ask God "why" I think there is encouragement in these situations.

 In the Old Testament Habakkuk cries out to God, "How long, O Lord, must I call for help?  But you do not listen!  Violence is everywhere! I cry, but you do not come to save.  Must I forever see these evil deeds?  Why must I watch all this misery?"

God's response?  "Look around at the nations;  look and be amazed!  For I am doing something you wouldn't believe even if someone told you about it."  

Just wait on the Lord...see what happens...you wouldn't believe what He can do in your life even if I told you.

Sunday Recap

I figure since Shane was out this week that I should take this over for the week:

-had a good amount of people today.  Some regulars out on vacation, but still strong with some more visitors

-Bonnie rocks.  Wherever she is needed she just steps right in and gets the job done

-props to Josh Ditch and Jamie Steele for jumping right in on the lights and sound and doing an awesome job...they really got those lights going and making what we do look even better

-our teens are awesome.  We have teens coming every sunday that were not coming even a month ago

Just a Reminder

Just reminding The Pointe that if there are 20 teenagers @ The Pointe this thursday then I will get a mohawk....also this week we will be starting our series "This is the Pointe" and examining what it means to be a part of our group. Everything will change starting this Thursday @ 6.30.  

Anniversary Thoughts

So as of today I have been married for one year.  This got me thinking...I knew nothing a year ago.  One year ago I was a 21 year old that just got back from Cambodia looking to graduate college.  I was just getting married and thought that I had everything all figured out.  One year later I'm not where I thought I would be (which is a very very very good thing) with my wife, at a church that I love, and still figuring out what it means to be a husband and a pastor.  

I think that a lot of times those of us who have been Christ followers for a little while think we know God's plan, what it means to be a Christian, and think we know God.  I have been a Christian now for 4 1/2 years and I can see just how far God has taken me in that short time.  Guess what...3 years ago I thought I knew it all (but I didn't)....2 years ago I thought I knew it all (but I didn't)...We all need to take some time and realize where we are and how far God has taken us.  We need to thank God for what He has done and remember that "the best is yet to come" for us as Christ followers and for us specifically as a church.  We have nowhere but up to go because we have God's promise.  Not to mention that we are on a roll lately that is completely a God thing.  

New Logo/Name

Fusion Student Ministries has now officially become "The Pointe" Student Ministries.  Our new logo is awesome and I like the name because it's ours.  Every youth group around is named Fusion and I am glad to have something more original.  Props to Katie for coming up with the name and Shane for helping with the logo that "my friend Dave" helped to start.  

It's been too long...

So I haven't posted in about a week b/c my macbook crapped out on me.  After 4 trips to IPlace and countless times borrowing Shanes macbook pro (which I'm on now) I am officially having to get a new hard drive.  Heres some stuff that's happened in the past week:

-had 10 teens again at youth (which is awesome considering we had three regulars out)

-had a lot more people at church this past sunday than we have been having...God keeps sending visitors our way and I hope we're doing our best to keep them on board.

-worked out for the first time in a long time this week.  Need to keep that going because I've really let myself go lately (I know, I've let myself go and I still look so good...it's true)

-finally had some time to read some books.  New favorite is Starving Jesus by Craig Gross and JR Mahon.  Fusion will probably be hearing much more from them here real soon.

Fusion is AWESOME

So I just thought I would take a second to give my teenagers a shout.  We had 6 at church this morning (when we usually have two)!  I'm so stoked that you guys are being a part of what we're doing at Ridge Pointe and know that God is going to bless you through it.  

Also, remember that Tuesday you need to bring enough $$$ to get food in Carowinds and dinner out of the park.  We will eat somewhere where you can get a dollar menu (like McDonalds).  We leave and get back @ 9.30.  Remember, love God, love people, and remember how good looking your youth pastor is...

Make Us Aware

Too many churches today get stuck in this pattern of feeling defeated.  Too often we shy away from certain types of people, places, or situations because we feel we are defeated before we start.  Do you believe in God?  I believe at the core of who I am that the message of Jesus Christ has the ability to transform lives, penetrated through personalities and situations, and completely change the landscape of our world.  

When Jesus left this earth he left us with a charge: go into all the nations and make disciples in His name.  If we truly believe in the power of Jesus Christ then we will share His message with those around us.  We will live in a way that truly glorifies God.  Many of us say that we want those around us to be Christians and have a relationship with Christ, yet our actions say another thing.  If you're not loving your spouse or kids you're not loving Christ.  If you're not actively serving others then you don't love Christ.  With our faith must come our actions.  Our faith must not be dependent on our actions but our actions formed through our faith.  

If I had one prayer for the church at large it would be that we would be aware of Christ in our lives (or the lack thereof).  I pray that all of us realize the power there is in the name of Jesus and the responsibility that comes with it.  

One Prayer

This Sunday we start our series "One Prayer".  At this point there are 1349 churches spanning the globe that will be joining together for 4 weeks to discuss what there one prayer for the church in general is. I think Craig Groeschel is a genius to come up with this idea.  It is the only thing I can think of that has crossed denominational and political lines to bring so many churches together for one common purpose.  This should be an awesome series because of the seriousness of what will be discussed.  Now I don't get to preach during this series, but I will share my OnePrayer over the next few weeks.  

Sunday

Hung out with the youth today.  We have really been making an effort to hang out more and be more intentional with the teenagers we have.  Sometimes doing the kind of church that we do produces families and teens that would otherwise not be in church.  Our youth group is no exception, which I love.  Our teens are awesome.  They are open and don't put our group in a box like some do.  They just like to hang out and be a part.  

We watched One Night Stand tonight.  Overall it was about a 4 on a scale of 1 to 10.  Hardly any big spots and was overall just kind of rushed and boring.  Also, I'm reading a great book by some twins from Oregon called "Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations".  Only one chapter in, but it is honestly awesome to read of guys who are currently 19 and had the ability to intern with the Alabama supreme court at the age of 16.  I will be reflecting on this book in the weeks to come.

Overall, great day.  Hope we have more like today in the near future.

Spiritual Suicide

"Flee from sexual immorality.  All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his (or her) own body." 

-I Corinthians 6.18.  

This past thursday we began our series entitled "Bringing Sexy Back".  This week we took a large section of I Corinthians and broke it down.  The one resounding thing that keeps coming to mind is the fact that sex is not just sex.  If there was ever a lie that I could completely get rid of in teenager vocabulary it would be that sex is just sex, it's an expression of love shown to who you are currently with.  The Bible is clear: when you have sex outside of marriage you are killing your relationship with God.  

Our main concern at Fusion is to give everyone there the best opportunity to have a great relationship with God.  I truly believe that sex (and everything that comes with it) can be the greatest obstacle in our relationship with God.  When we choose to have sex before marriage, cheat on our spouse, look at pornography, or to commit any other sexual sin with our lives we are holding the gun up to our relationship with God and pulling the trigger.  Remember, this week we will be splitting the guys and girls up so we can go a little more in depth and do so with some tact.  Be praying for all of this to go well and for God to move mightily on our behalf.

Mothers Day

First things first.  Happy Mothers Day to all the moms (mostly my mom).  Now, I don't know what happened but yesterday my nose started running and now I feel like my nose weighs 50 pounds.  Church today was eye-opening.  We had a lot of people out and it's time we figure some things out.  The one thing that I can promise is that we will do our absolute best to make sure that Ridge Pointe Church and Fusion Student Ministries takes the next step and are the best they can be.  Get on board, get involved, became a part because we are getting ready to roll.  We are moving forward and Inman, SC will not be the same.

In Cleveland

In case you forget....if you need a ride to fusion tonight you have to figure it out without us this week...Katie and I are in Cleveland, TN for her graduation and Lance will be teaching tonight...

Fusion Follow-Up

This week we talked about the benefit of having good and bad friends in our lives.  Overall, the best benefit we have of having all kinds of friends is that we can stretch ourselves and exercise our faith.  The bible says to love your neighbor as yourself.  You don't get the chance to choose your neighbor, but you have to make the choice every day to love everyone, regardless of their status, race, sexual preference, or religion.  Jesus did not come to show love to just the Christians of his day, but to everyone.  Our faith needs to be one that is filled with and exemplified by love.  One other side note, do not forget that Friday night @ 7.0 will be our first parent meeting and next week we start at 6.30 instead of 6.0 (plus no pizza).  Be good to Lance as he teaches or you will have one p'd off youth pastor.  

Ridiculously Stupid

So I've made this comment now for the past two weeks: I want God to do something so ridiculously stupid on our behalf (as Fusion Student Ministries and Ridge Pointe Church) that people look at us and can't explain it.  I want God to use us in a way that has not been seen before, not because of something we have done but because God is using us in a new and mighty way.  Shane had mentioned last week in service that we were no longer going to "entertain" people.  I could not agree more.  Our goal as a youth group and as a church is for people to grow closer to God as a result from being in our church.  It's time that Christians (notice not everyone) came to church for the right reasons.  If your goal is not to grow closer to God and see others do the same then I would argue that you don't get it.  I feel like for almost 5 months I have allowed myself to simply entertain teenagers.  As a result I was miserable.  God does not desire for us to be stagnant in our faith; He desires a faith that is constantly moving closer and closer to Him.  God desires for His Kingdom to be advanced in a mighty way.  It will take a youth group and a church that are open to God for His will to be done in a "ridiculously stupid" kind of way. 

Update

Last Thursday we continued our series "friends with benefits" and examined ourselves.  What kind of friend are you?  Are you the kind of friend that drops your friends because you got a boyfriend or girlfriend?  Do you have your friends back?  Do you hold them accountable?  Ultimately, us being a good friend is helping those around us to have the best life possible, the same best life that Jesus describes his goal being in John 10.10.  On a side note, I'm pretty stoked that Monday I am going to Monday Night Raw in Greenville.  You might be one of those who thinks pro wrestling is stupid (and to some extent I can agree with that) but it's dang entertaining.  I'll let you know how it goes.  Also, do not forget that this friday night (the 25th) is our first ever Fusion Parent Meeting @ 7.00 in the youth building.  There will be free food, arcade games (because even though you have kids you still love them), and a great looking youth pastor to hang out with.  Call with any questions 864-201-0953.  

An Enemy Multiplies Kisses

This week we began our series "friends with benefits".  There was one scripture that caught everyone's attention tonight.  "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses."  Every teenagers looked at me like I was crazy when I read this.  What I take this to mean is while your real friends may hurt you because they are telling you what you don't want to hear, an untrue/fake friend will always tell you what you do want to hear.  When you got hurt when you were little the first thing most of us wanted was for our moms to kiss it and make it better.  That, for many of us, was an easy way out.  Once mom kissed our boo-boo we were fine.  We would never really have to deal with the problem or what caused us to get hurt.  An untrue friend will always just want to say what needs to be said to give you a quick-fix.  We need to make the effort to take what our true friends say to heart.  Just like the proverb says, "wounds from a friend can be trusted."  Don't take the easy way out.  Deal with your stuff when a true friend presents it to you.

Fusion Follow-Up 4.10.08

Here are the scriptures that we talked about tonight in our new series "friends with benefits":

Proverbs 17.17: "A friend loves at all times..."

Proverbs 27.6: "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses"

Ecclesiastes 4.12: "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.  A cord of three strands is not quickly broken"