tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52504532012-02-07T04:23:12.798-05:00Djnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1101100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-85804871198647805132011-06-14T07:19:00.003-04:002011-06-14T07:48:41.903-04:00

Yesterday we were doing a little bit of joking about politics at band practice.Truth be told, I hate politics. For the past 3 weeks now, we've heard nothing but this Anthony Weiner scandal and there are lots of other issues important to our country right now that are being completely ignored. But that's politics for you.I remember vividly in my early years of faith being told that if you're a

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-23214813665582295622011-06-05T22:24:00.003-04:002011-06-05T22:45:13.085-04:00

I have to completely admit that I'm coming out of a spiritual black hole. For quite a long time now, I've had lots of questions about faith, and in particular my relationship to faith.It wasn't that I doubted the existence of God or anything like that, but my faith was troubled and I had a hard time reconciling it. I'm very happy to say that I've come through that time and I'm a lot stronger

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-89726463890471039312008-08-21T18:58:00.004-04:002008-08-21T19:17:30.177-04:00

So the financial committee chair person comes to you and says: "Good news! We've reworked your budget...you have $100 to spend for the year for each of your programs. If you could spend less that'd be great!"Ouch. Double ouch if you're working with several different programs!You have a couple of options:Start writing your own curriculum, which takes a lot more time orFind quality curriculum/

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-34262333169328184062008-08-18T07:29:00.002-04:002008-08-18T07:33:46.115-04:00

As of 5:05am this morning I weighed in at 196 pounds - I met my 2 pound goal for the week! Surprisingly! I was not as careful with my food as I should of been last week. Saturday I ate over 2600 calories (Cheeseburger in Paradise is my personal weakness!) Not at all what I had hoped for but still managed to pull off the loss.As I think about it, I'm not sure I'll make the goal to 175. Not

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-44822640450340290222008-08-11T11:22:00.002-04:002008-08-11T11:29:02.112-04:00

Today is CRAZY busy so I'll make this short.The past 3 months I've taken a short hiatus for my weight loss. Between summer camps, CIY and crazy schedules, it was nearly impossible to lose and keep a schedule of exercise.So today I officially start again and plan on coming on here each Monday morning to give an update on my weigh in. This helps keep me accountable.The Goal: 175 PoundsTarget

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-43739412359623285832008-08-03T18:50:00.000-04:002008-08-03T18:51:22.984-04:00

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-25213278046686042432008-07-29T08:41:00.004-04:002008-07-29T09:12:31.155-04:00

The purpose of this post isn't to show that I'm a "Super Christian" because I'm not in any way. Nor am I trying to show off what I do. I just want to be able to share the way God has been blessing me through one on one times with him. With that being said...This morning I had an amazing quiet time. I think I've finally found the groove that connects me to God in my quiet time. Someone once

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-28167237095731382322008-07-26T06:39:00.003-04:002008-07-26T06:42:21.192-04:00

For those that know me well enough, know that I really cannot stand Willow Creek. I've never liked their methods, their shallow practices, and the fact that they charge outrageous prices for their materials.Anyways, I came across this article this morning about how they decided their programs were just wrong. A direct quote from Bill Hybels:"We made a mistake. What we should have done when

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-41486064048289049352008-07-16T10:48:00.009-04:002008-11-13T16:40:41.936-05:00

I started the weight loss attempt on February 4th and as of today, July 16th, I've lost 43 pounds. Here is my before and after picture:It's really hard to believe I was so heavy. I really didn't notice it. You always notice you're a "couple of pounds" over but that's about it. I had no idea I had crept up to 240 pounds.Today, I'm under what I weighed my Senior year of High School. My

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-71191936104043932962008-07-16T08:48:00.004-04:002008-07-16T09:40:04.545-04:00

You know that one thing that you have that you don't want anyone else to see? It's that one weakness...or flaw that you shamefully hide because you absolutely don't want anyone to see or acknowledge it.I have one.It scares the potatoes out of me when I think about someone calling it out on me.And it happened yesterday.Not just by one person, but by a collective group of people.It hurt.Now before

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-54599704062987285372008-07-09T08:36:00.005-04:002008-07-09T08:59:16.715-04:00

Lately I had been feeling guilty for taking my afternoons off from the office. In college it was pounded into my head that a minister should work an average of 55 hours a week so "...no one can complain that you don't work!" I thought that was fair advice and that's what I've done. My wife has continually told me that I "work WAY too much", but have since learned from people much wiser than I

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-34623240575577469032008-07-08T21:30:00.001-04:002008-07-08T21:32:18.830-04:00

I'm still not sure what I think about this.My initial reaction is: "Aren't there other areas that could better use your time in prayer?"

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-86157432558734827402008-07-08T11:33:00.003-04:002008-07-08T11:36:46.652-04:00

by Scott Firestone (Group Magazine)10. Time Shares and Texas Hold 'Em: Creative Fundraising Ideas9. No Halos for Halo: Why Jesus Hates Video Games and Video Gamers8. The Gaithers: Rockers for Jesus or the Devil's Marionettes7. The Care Bears: Leading Teens Down the Dark Road of the Occult6. SUPERGOOD Life Lessons From SUPERBAD - Includes CD with Video Clips!5. Budget and Salaries: Youth

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-513741967579504542008-06-20T20:23:00.000-04:002008-06-20T20:24:33.886-04:00

Just when you think you've had an awesome week......something causes it to come crashing down...

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-34103150137704431812008-06-13T08:07:00.002-04:002008-06-13T08:23:19.082-04:00

From the Myers/Briggs Type Indicator (My comments in blue)INFPINFPs focus deeply on their values, and they devote their lives to pursuing the ideal. They often draw people together around a common purpose and work to find a place for each person within the group. They are creative, and they seek new ideas and possibilities. They quietly push for what is important to them, and they rarely give up.

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-51741027405379192782008-06-12T08:48:00.003-04:002008-06-12T09:01:41.980-04:00

Church photo directories frustrate me.They're a great tool and all, but everyone comes out of the woodwork for them! I saw a family last night that I haven't seen in church in the 3 years that I've been here, not even for Christmas Eve or Easter. I remember a conversation I had with a lady a couple of months ago. It went something like this:"You're the youth minister at Reddington? Well I've

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-11523292949871794212008-05-31T06:38:00.002-04:002008-05-31T06:44:05.484-04:00

The Once a Youth Pastor... blog has dramatically influenced a change in how I perceive 'effectiveness' in youth ministry and how youth ministry SHOULD be done. If you haven't seen this blog you have to. Go through and read it all. Most of the posts are short and to the point but it has been instrumental in reforming my ministry paradigm. In one of his latest posts he lists the 5 questions that

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-59974670409444243962008-05-29T11:09:00.003-04:002008-05-29T11:10:54.785-04:00

I had hoped to come back from my blogging hiatus, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen.This June I will be in my office a total of 4 days.4 days.I hope to have a lot to talk about when I come back :-D

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-38662559177733796212008-05-12T15:10:00.002-04:002008-05-12T15:14:13.085-04:00

If you haven't seen Charlie the Unicorn 1, stop what you're doing and go to YouTube and search for Charlie the Unicorn and watch it so you can fully enjoy Charlie the Unicorn 2. Otherwise, enjoy!

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-80631648782214087612008-05-11T07:48:00.002-04:002008-05-11T07:53:26.093-04:00

Quick post before the service.Most people blame the media for misrepresenting news or not publishing news of "substance". I know I often get ticked off when the war in Darfur gets 10 seconds of news time and the cafeteria worker who saved a little girl from choking gets 4 full minutes (true story). But is the media to blame? Or is it that people just don't care about things going on in the

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-14248965515145049782008-05-07T11:07:00.001-04:002008-05-07T11:07:49.457-04:00

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-34302999478847153342008-04-30T11:10:00.004-04:002008-04-30T11:22:47.665-04:00

To my faithful readers:Things are getting busy with school ending and the summer months coming up. Youth workers around the country are bracing for a summer of activities, retreats, camps and trips. Updates may be slow coming in these next few months so I apologize.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-23201863300885762572008-04-29T13:45:00.001-04:002008-04-29T13:46:32.841-04:00

"I am deeply convinced that the Christian leader of the future is called to be irrelevant and to stand in this world with nothing to offer but his or her own vulnerable self." - Henri Nouwen, In the Name of Jesus

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-59133816195537078742008-04-28T14:56:00.002-04:002008-04-28T15:14:37.897-04:00

The Results are in! (Gotta love the loser references!)Not sure where I eventually ended up but as of last week I was in 20th place out of the 175+ that participated. The contest is over but I'm still trying to lose!

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-89362116009771057012008-04-25T09:12:00.002-04:002008-11-13T16:40:42.761-05:00

The "Are You A Bigger Loser Than Marko" contest ends today and I officially weighed in at 210, 30 pounds less then when I started. I'm pretty excited. But it's not over yet, I still have about 30 more to go! Thank you all for your prayers and your support!

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-61453671904043731002008-04-21T11:39:00.002-04:002008-04-21T11:52:57.852-04:00

Like it or not, youth workers live in a culture where numbers apparently matter. This is horrible. When i read curriculum, everything is geared towards a group of 20+ attenders. Games. Events. Everything you read (almost) in youth ministry is geared towards large youth groups. It's almost as if people have forgotten that the average church in America is under 100 in attendance for the whole

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-43022141732329987762008-04-14T22:48:00.002-04:002008-04-14T22:51:17.798-04:00

I'm tired.I've been going for 2 weeks non-stop with stuff at home and at the church and I'm tired. Lately it feels like I go to the church, get all the crazy stuff done that I need to get done in a week, get home, do whatever crazy stuff I need to get done there and the last hour or so I have available I spend it with my wife or by myself because I just need that alone time and then I'm in

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-91488442490949533322008-04-08T08:43:00.002-04:002008-04-08T09:00:03.071-04:00

I accomplished a goal yesterday.Several months ago I went out to our local National Forest and attempted to hike the Pinnacle trail, a 1-mile long rugged trail uphill several hundred feet. Needless to say I didn't get that far. About a quarter of a mile.Then a couple of months later we took some of our elementary aged kids there and attempted the same trail. This time we got about half way

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-18014992583774012442008-04-08T08:41:00.002-04:002008-04-08T08:43:43.044-04:00

I just have to say that I am EXTREMELY excited this morning. Our little church of 300 is taking 15 to The Core Conference this Saturday. This is really a huge step for our church and I'm really excited about it!

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-75368986741365121692008-04-03T08:58:00.002-04:002008-04-03T09:18:52.090-04:00

I have 4 lessons to write today because it's been a busy week and I haven't gotten around to it. So while I'm having trouble with my lesson writing, I thought I would procrastinate with this question.Lately we have had a flow of people contacting the church asking for help and assistance with hotels rooms and food and such. Food is easy, we have a food pantry that we can either take food to

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-68975131051610225172008-04-01T18:53:00.001-04:002008-04-01T18:55:19.930-04:00

I haven't forgotten you all I promise! Life has been busy!In the mean time, read this.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-50137238949233485372008-03-24T15:09:00.002-04:002008-03-24T15:15:58.188-04:00

Just found out and wanted to report to you all that I am in 29th place for the "Being a Bigger Loser Than Marko" contest. I'm pretty pumped since there were over 175'something that have been participating.I've not lost as much as I would of hoped at this point, but I'm down 20+ and still keeping it off. I've made a big adjustment to diet this week so hopefully we'll see more results next

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-59372809444245313452008-03-13T10:39:00.003-04:002008-03-13T10:50:06.752-04:00

On February 1st I embarked upon a contest with Youth Specialties to "Be a Bigger Loser Than Marko". In other words, who could lose the most weight?Here are some things you might be interested in knowing since it started:Those who are in the contest have lost over 1,370.9 pounds!Marko is in 2nd place!Dj isn't in the top 10.But Dj has lost 20 pounds!So continue to pray for me, it is greatly

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-63711856018287639782008-03-12T20:06:00.003-04:002008-03-12T20:15:37.241-04:00

When I took that quiz it was early in the afternoon and I've since returned home and had time to think about it.I'm such a hodgepodge of faith backgrounds that I don't think any particular "movement" would accept me. I've "grown up" in the Restoration Movement and even went to one of their colleges. I've since moved on from a lot of their traditional doctrines and would probably be ousted from

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-86913138819147872122008-03-12T12:02:00.001-04:002008-03-12T12:02:19.302-04:00

What's your theological worldview?created with QuizFarm.com You scored as Emergent/PostmodernYou are Emergent/Postmodern in your theology. You feel alienated from older forms of church, you don't think they connect to modern culture very well. No one knows the whole truth about God, and we have much to learn from each other, and so learning takes place in dialogue. Evangelism should take

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-52291228401688036132008-03-12T08:50:00.005-04:002008-03-12T09:15:59.165-04:00

It's been a great week in 'blog land' with several great posts from many different areas. I wanted to share with you some of the great ones from this week. Hopefully this is something I can continue to do each week."Once a Youth Pastor..." is a blog that recently got hit with a ton of traffic due to Marko talking about it in his post. It's about one youth pastor's exit from youth ministry

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-40052654363643522008-03-10T13:24:00.001-04:002008-03-10T13:26:13.579-04:00

I had a friend come across this video off the now booming GodTube and it was certainly an encouragement to me. So, I wanted to share it with you and hope that it encourages your day as well.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-26533870482814879512008-03-06T09:53:00.000-05:002008-03-06T09:54:21.336-05:00

In 5m 2sClick here to PlayThanks goes out to Marko for finding this.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-41365275885661572562008-03-06T08:42:00.002-05:002008-03-06T08:45:21.824-05:00

Jeremy Zach is having a great conversation on the topic of homosexuality and the church and what is to be our response to homosexuals in the church. I point you in that direction to take part in the conversation.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-57800349458519179442008-03-03T10:01:00.003-05:002008-03-03T10:36:13.411-05:00

Many will remember back in the 90's when the big "Purpose Driven Church" movements came into existence. At the time I was a clueless 15 year old who just kind of went along with it all, but I did remember that we were challenged by our youth pastor to memorize our "Mission Statement". In fact, we were expected to know it at a moments notice and could even win $1 if we asked a leader to recite

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-36656524047858689392008-02-27T09:28:00.002-05:002008-02-27T09:30:19.249-05:00

"Your personality may open some doors for you, but it is your character that will keep them open." - Unknown

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-61756226661604202192008-02-27T09:12:00.003-05:002008-02-27T09:23:57.659-05:00

Now, for those that know me know that I hate that we have a Christian subculture: Christian Rock Music, Christian Contemporary Music, Christian Death Metal, Christian Bookstore, etc...It drives me nuts! So as often as I can, I like to present artists and speakers that don't promote themselves as a "Christian anything" but rather someone who is a believer and happens to be in a rock band, or a

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-35129504336948620862008-02-25T08:40:00.002-05:002008-02-25T08:50:24.431-05:00

I had one of those moments yesterday while teaching Sunday school that I come into a new realization about something.We got onto the topic of predestination...or with our class...*I* got on the subject of predestination and salvation. We talked about how some people make our salvation a difficult thing. You have to agree to a certain amount of doctrine, you have to give so much money to the

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-36100391395165613002008-02-19T08:46:00.003-05:002008-02-19T08:50:30.948-05:00

If you've never heard of Mike Yaconelli, drop what you're doing and go see as many of his videos and read as many of his books as you can. The man was amazing and ever since I was introduced to him years ago, he has been a great encouragement to me. Mike has gone on to be with Jesus now, but his passion still remains.This video was a shot in the arm for me this morning. Take 10 minutes and

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-16359389169150962262008-02-18T09:34:00.004-05:002008-11-13T16:40:43.537-05:00

Let's face it. Youth ministry as we have known it is broken. It no longer "works". I've studied enough and been with enough youth ministers to know that the youth ministry that worked back in the 70's and 80's no longer works today.Here is what we have done for the past 30+ years:Church hires youth pastor.Youth pastor creates fun and engaging programs.Youth pastor encourages kids to show up

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-46906286779011156602008-02-16T16:14:00.002-05:002008-02-16T16:16:01.857-05:00

Can't say I disagree with him, Charles Barkley, former pro-basketball player made a bold statement on CNN the other night. See what you think here.

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-1918773366328342762008-02-13T11:26:00.000-05:002008-02-13T11:27:10.729-05:00

Things are getting easier. I'm losing my cravings for some of my favorite foods...although I'd LOVE to have some Taco Bell today. One of my favorite meals consists of turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread with lettuce, tomato, red onions and a very thin layer of reduced fat Miracle Whip. I'm going to have one in an hour and I'm already craving it..And It's healthy!!To be completely honest, I'm

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-43916690759821310732008-02-05T17:14:00.000-05:002008-02-05T17:16:01.530-05:00

Friends,In my journeys throughout the internet, I have never encountered such a video that made me laugh as hard as the "Evil Eye Baby". What you're about to see is the most amazing video...ever. In other news, I hope to get a new post up and going here soon. Stay tuned.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-51635132400658072522008-02-01T09:36:00.000-05:002008-02-01T09:45:20.248-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, one of the men that I look up to a lot in youth ministry posted on his blog about his personal need to lose weight. Mark Oestricher of Youth Specialties talked about how they had toyed around the idea of having a contest to see who could be a 'bigger loser than Marko'. Me, and apparently a lot of others jumped on the bandwagon and thought that would be a great idea.Thus

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-33501339143029061702008-01-30T11:01:00.001-05:002008-01-30T11:06:54.685-05:00

Needless to say I'm pumped about the upcoming season of Lost. I've been slightly dismayed at the delay of 24 season 7, but there is little I can do about that. So until the release of 24 I have Lost.When we last left off, the passengers from Oceanic 815 were getting ready to be 'rescued' by the boat just off the island's shore. Some will be saved...some won't.If you've never season an episode

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-74555795532689661992008-01-23T10:23:00.000-05:002008-01-23T10:27:20.814-05:00

"Don't waste time: In just two days tomorrow will be yesterday."

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-14896748621745536342008-01-22T11:19:00.001-05:002008-01-22T11:23:56.152-05:00

Honestly, I'm not much of a political person. But with election season in full swing, I have chosen my candidate relatively early. You've probably noticed that with the ad on the right side of the page here. My candidate of choice is Ron Paul. Why? The man is a genius! When you listen to him speak, he is passionate in what he says and you can honestly believe that he cares about what he is

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-35206620004790374872008-01-16T16:37:00.000-05:002008-01-16T16:40:32.121-05:00

Each week I'm going to try to put up a new quote that is either insightful, inspirational, or something that makes you think (I ran out of words that begin with "in"). This week's quote comes from an unknown source but that doesn't devalue it."In addition to knowing God, there are 5 secrets to a joyful life:Free your mind from hatred.Free your mind from worries.Live simply.Give more.Expect less."

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-78958389772055367682008-01-14T14:26:00.000-05:002008-01-14T14:54:27.263-05:00

By now, most people have heard of Google. Of course Google is most famous for their amazing search engine which can find pretty much any information you want. If you knew the term, you could even search for unprotected security cameras in various areas and literally take control of them.However, quite a few people are still unfamiliar with the other services that Google offers. Gmail, which is

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-14635136430206493032008-01-12T08:53:00.000-05:002008-01-12T08:55:56.429-05:00

I found this little diddy over at Marko's spot. Word's cannot express this video. You have to watch the whole thing. Notice the awkwardness of the audience...

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-45176135939537344562008-01-08T08:59:00.000-05:002008-11-13T16:40:43.921-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I started a "series" in our Junior worship (1st grade through 5th grade) about "Questions about God". I challenged the kids to write down a question that they had about God or the Bible or anything in the church and I was pretty excited that they accepted the challenge with an amazing gusto!The first question I got? "How can God be three different people?"From a 4th grader

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-47356894015120758322008-01-03T11:39:00.000-05:002008-01-03T11:42:14.272-05:00

On December 26th one of the most memorable moments in my life occured: Operation Knee Socks. Long story short, our High school youth group decided to plan a lock in type event that involved me being kidnapped and thrown into our church van for an afternoon/night of fun and excitement.I present you the video that gives you the play by play on what happened.

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-4699442556235198632008-01-03T11:33:00.000-05:002008-01-03T11:43:03.949-05:00

I wanted to start a series on here entitled: "Adventures in Youth Ministry" where I share funny stories, anecdotes, and even the dark times of youth ministry. To kick off this series I want to begin with a funny "Top 10" that is in this month's issue of Group Magazine. FYI, I wrote a letter to Rick Lawrence the editor of Group and he published it in this issue as well, but that's just bonus.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-39284427322767920572008-01-02T09:28:00.000-05:002008-01-02T09:50:07.565-05:00

It's been a while but I'm back and ready to get back to getting on the soap box again.Today's topic: Normal person + Internet Anonymity = JerkwadIf you've ever participated on an internet forum you know what I'm talking about. When you take completely normal people and give them complete anonymity and free reign to talk about whatever they want, they become the biggest idiots of all time. It's

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-29998671856060142502007-12-16T22:21:00.001-05:002007-12-16T22:24:21.658-05:00

I know I'm not one to update daily, but we are leaving for Florida in the morning and I won't be updating this week as far as I can tell.That's also the 2nd reason for posting tonight.I'm terrified of flying. It's an irrational fear. I know it's the absolutely safest way to travel. But that doesn't help me. So I have a couple of things to help me...we'll see how that goes.So, I ask for your

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-35411375353722630812007-12-13T08:26:00.000-05:002007-12-13T08:32:08.091-05:00

Yesterday, while going through some of my random searching of the web, I came across this blog about a particular painting that sparked a controversy in the Portland area. The controversy has now spilled over into 'blogland' and I submit it to you for your evaluation and personal reflection.

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-39069714603284704452007-12-10T14:16:00.000-05:002007-12-10T14:21:08.113-05:00

There is a huge debate going on about global warming. Whether or not it's happening...if it's our fault...etc...I was just thinking a few minutes ago (scary) about this and came up with a question:What if we successfully curb global warming and it ends up being an even more disastrous decision?Is anyone thinking of what the effects would be if we're "successful"?What if global warming is purely

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-5783037745572829072007-12-06T18:49:00.000-05:002007-12-06T18:50:25.635-05:00

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-52164528275487435482007-12-06T09:58:00.000-05:002007-12-06T10:03:21.353-05:00

If you have ever visited Seymour Indiana you've likely heard the three tidbits of information that natives just love to tell you:1) Birthplace of John Mellencamp2) 2nd Largest High school gymnasium in the state.3) Site of the world's first train robbery.As I was looking for some facts today, I came across the news that the worlds first train robbery actually did NOT occur in Seymour, but in

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-79076934071533341972007-12-05T11:02:00.000-05:002007-12-05T11:20:47.582-05:00

This morning I woke up and had a friend send me a link to a comic from beliefnet.com. To be completely honest, I was put off when I saw the article was written by Al Franken, a political liberal. The only time I liked Franken was when he played that guy on SNL with the light blue sweater. But that aside, I found that as I read this comic, the more I found myself allying along side with what he

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-25763885138287500662007-11-30T21:42:00.004-05:002007-11-30T21:43:28.363-05:00

For discussion:Is there ever a time when a church split is a "good thing"?

Djnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-62318802448650174322007-11-30T21:42:00.003-05:002007-11-30T21:44:22.074-05:00

What would happen if we ventured outside of our safe places and thought outside of the box. What if we did things differently?

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-61167019920633730952007-11-29T08:23:00.000-05:002007-11-29T08:48:09.587-05:00

For the love of God (literally) be more creative! Can't we come up with something different than "Hey! This thing might be anti-God...BOYCOTT IT!!" Isn't there some sort of constructive method of entering into conversation about topics that might go against the flow of what we believe?Take for instance the upcoming movie The Golden Compass. If you haven't heard, there is a large movement of

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-61275857383680500352007-11-27T22:35:00.001-05:002007-11-27T22:36:14.084-05:00

Exactly how this has escaped my wide adventures in internet travel I'll never know. But I bring to you one of the greatest remakes of all time:

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-76567864634955391362007-11-22T22:41:00.001-05:002007-11-22T22:51:19.356-05:00

By some sheer miracle if you haven't received an email forward about the upcoming children's movie The Golden Compass...then...you're lucky. But chances are, you've heard it and know whats going on. But just in case, it's the movie that is coming out his Christmas season strangely similar to that of the Chronicles of Narnia. Except, at the end, the children kill god.There is a strong movement

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-41008957347897940372007-11-21T09:27:00.000-05:002008-11-13T16:40:55.080-05:00

The Christian Standard had some really good articles a couple weeks ago about how to be welcoming in your church. In an age where we are constantly trying to bring people to church, people jump from church to church to where they feel the most 'welcome'.Now, I'm not going to get in a large discussion about how to make people feel welcome in your church. It's pretty straight forward: Go up to

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-42868042856437446432007-11-16T06:50:00.000-05:002007-11-16T06:58:10.387-05:00

This morning I came across this article on a religion journalist who was walking out on his faith. The reason? He was sick of all the scandalous things that went on within the faith community. But that's not the reason I found this article interesting."Bates, who says he still regards himself as a Catholic, said he was turned off by the intolerance he saw towards gays and the self-righteousness

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-87961001665476850272007-11-08T13:43:00.000-05:002007-11-08T13:44:07.396-05:00

For your daily cuteness...

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-52922354521050779132007-11-07T08:57:00.001-05:002007-11-07T08:59:07.669-05:00

I turned 26 years old today.Birthdays just aren't as fun anymore.Life just goes by way too fast.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-80370403296673710382007-11-07T08:25:00.000-05:002007-11-07T08:56:24.184-05:00

Let's face it. The American church caters to women. Walk into any typical church today and you will notice some of the following things:1) Decorative paintings2) Floral arrangements3) Love songs to Jesus4) Flowery furniture and accessories5) Quilts and banners and bows6) And other miscellaneous things.Now, don't misunderstand me, I don't believe these things are bad or that we need to

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-23533042774432480232007-10-31T09:28:00.000-04:002007-10-31T09:29:40.847-04:00

Happy Halloween!or for those of you who believe that Halloween is of the devil...Happy Reformation Day!

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-44674521533333508742007-10-30T08:30:00.000-04:002008-11-13T16:40:57.362-05:00

Every morning I drive across the same set of rail road tracks. They're nothing special. Just typical railroad tracks on top of a mini hill and a set of lights and arms that stretch across just to stop traffic should a train be oncoming.What I find interesting though, is that every time I go over these tracks, people either a) go over the tracks without paying attention or b) look for a train as

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-52943956814744241022007-10-26T07:08:00.000-04:002007-10-26T07:11:02.691-04:00

I found a great article on Christianity Today's website. It's about an agnostic Jew who decided to read through the entire Bible and follow it word for word. Here is an excerpt:Of course, some of the Bible's laws prove too strange even for Jacobs. The notion that one should break the neck of a cow near the scene of an unsolved murder (Deut. 21:4) is a bit too bizarre to be transforming the NYPD

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-89873665201792357792007-10-25T09:25:00.000-04:002007-10-25T09:57:16.948-04:00

Lately I've been obsessed with social bookmarking sites such as Digg.com and StumbleUpon.com, in fact I often use popurls.com every couple of hours to keep up on what is 'hot' on the internet.What I have found lately though, is that there is a common rising of popularity of atheist and evolution websites that keep popping up. Is it because there is a rising population of atheist and/or

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-63889287815186635822007-10-19T23:11:00.000-04:002007-10-19T23:12:47.399-04:00

Haikus are easyBut sometimes they don't make senseRefrigerator

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-80205981539306967372007-10-17T09:17:00.000-04:002007-10-17T09:45:45.124-04:00

I finished my nearly 10 month study on the Gospels this week and started the Prophet of Ezekiel.Weird stuff."...and in the fire was what looked like four living creatures. In appearance their form was that of a man, but each of them had four faces and four wings. Their legs were straight; their feet were like those of a calf and gleamed like burnished bronze..." - 1:4b-7"Eat the food as you

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-49188663822021988672007-10-15T09:33:00.001-04:002007-10-15T09:33:33.571-04:00

I have decided to no longer call myself a “Christian”. Before you panic, let me explain. We throw around this term ‘Christian’ all the time. We talk about a Christian nation. We talk about Christian leaders and Christian families. Unfortunately, the name which used to signify someone being a dedicated and committed believer in Jesus no longer means that at all.

Djnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-27821346345686944732007-10-09T10:45:00.000-04:002007-10-09T11:04:47.746-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen if there was ever a company with the absolute worst customer service, that would be Comcast. Not only does their regular service beyond basic cable stink, but their internet services hardly ever work and their customer service, like I stated before...is the worst!Let's rewind back to May.I'm preparing to leave the parsonage for our new home in town. I want to make sure I

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-21653260520347560892007-10-08T17:40:00.000-04:002007-10-08T17:50:56.031-04:00

Last January I became addicted to a TV show. 24. I absolutely fell in love with it. I couldn't get enough of it. So I rented the first 3 seasons and bought seasons 4 and 5. I happened to come across a friend who owned the first season of Lost. Guess what happened? Addiction! I did the whole season in 4 days. I loved it! The depth of character is great, the plot lines are addicting

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-72442854051336362142007-09-30T07:33:00.000-04:002007-09-30T07:50:03.144-04:00

I'm getting beat up bad and things just keep coming on and everyday is just a constant struggle.I hate to ask for prayer on a blog like this, but thats all I can think of to do.

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-72612539887099543852007-09-20T10:14:00.000-04:002007-09-20T10:16:08.766-04:00

Yup! Every year on September 19th, it's International talk like a pirate day. Well...at least according to these guys. Don' you love the internet?

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-77279275849707276472007-09-19T17:15:00.000-04:002007-09-19T17:18:32.317-04:00

If so, don't go here. Well...I'm sure the survey is accurate, but certainly doesn't represent any ministers I know.The youth ministers they surveyed came up with an average over 3 times what I make. Crazy!

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-56184725995599549222007-09-19T13:15:00.001-04:002007-09-19T13:16:22.396-04:00

The internet has crashed!Breaking News: All Online Data Lost After Internet CrashIt starts out a little slow, but about half way thru it gets good.

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-467348340378967102007-09-18T09:17:00.000-04:002007-09-18T09:55:16.185-04:00

Few things make me as nervous as huge church building projects and churches going 'in a new direction'. Too often I think, our voices of greed and selfishness are heard louder than the voice of God.Our church is getting ready to embark upon a new building program. The church building has been in existence for 20+ years and in all honesty, we are busting at the seems. Which is a good thing

Djnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-6602400569752831102007-09-15T22:57:00.000-04:002007-09-15T23:11:51.912-04:00

I found these tonight while using my favorite social bookmarking system StumbleUpon. Here are a few that made me laugh:Without geometry, life is pointless.My gamer fragged your honor student.National Spellling Bee Runer-Up Dyslexics Untie!In case of rapture, can I have your car?Keep on working, millions on welfare depend on you! Want a little taste of religion? Bite the minister. To err

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-16176448656652866172007-09-13T11:58:00.001-04:002007-09-13T12:07:12.100-04:00

The big news this morning is about a family who stopped to help a woman they thought was in distress. She wasn't. In fact, she was an undercover cop posing as a prostitute. What happened? The husband was arrested on grounds that he solicited a prostitute (while his wife was in the car, and daughter just inside the store). Click the link to read the full story.Theres a couple of things that

Djnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-2554335737773518562007-09-12T22:42:00.000-04:002007-09-12T22:49:00.421-04:00

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength;they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" - Isaiah 40:31

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-43931746712661021082007-09-11T13:17:00.001-04:002007-09-11T13:23:03.713-04:00

Lately I have considered going to the High School to start a "games club" and doing ministry within the High school through games such as chess, Magic the Gathering, Dungeons and Dragons, and other games such as those (also deemed as "nerd" games, see previous post). We've had a huge outcry against our Karate Ministry at church...can you imagine what would happen if I started a Dungeons and

Djnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-21876358314620731552007-09-10T18:28:00.000-04:002007-09-11T08:41:01.193-04:00

My wife continues to remind me, almost on a daily basis, that I'm a nerd. Let me list the number of ways in which I am:I love Star Wars.I love computers.I love video games.I miss the days where we the guys would devote 8 hours to playing a long Dungeons and Dragons session.I miss the days where we the guys would devote 8 hours to playing a long Star Wars the Role playing game session.Last Spring

Djnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-23702082882796242592007-09-06T08:44:00.000-04:002007-09-06T09:04:18.205-04:00

As I continue my studying on the Gospels, I am amazed at the accounts that I come across that I never seemed to take notice of before. This morning I read John 10, the account of the blind man that was healed. John tells us that this man was born blind, and people had witnessed this man begging for years. The disciples asked Jesus "Who sinned? Him or his parents that he was born blind?"

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-13160658520902609082007-09-05T10:41:00.000-04:002007-09-05T10:59:39.367-04:00

And we all slap our foreheads and say "Duh!"Researchers, led by Peter M. Todd of Indiana University did a study to find out if men go for good looks when finding a 'mate'. You can read the rest of the story here. What I find interesting about the whole thing, is that they spent time, effort and money on this research. Couldn't they just have saved all that time and money and asked a couple of

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-24804083211762546852007-09-04T12:53:00.000-04:002007-09-04T15:43:04.798-04:00

This will be my new posting home. I've gone back and forth from here to Xanga, but I just can't go back to Xanga any longer.Feel free to comment and engage in any discussion on the topics discussed here. Also look at any of the items on the right side bar. I've posted some of my favorite blogs: Tony Myles and Mark Oestricher. Both of whom I read every day. They have some amazing things to

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-37272595138363046942007-04-23T09:07:00.000-04:002007-09-04T15:43:50.459-04:00

A couple of months ago me and Carrie went with some good friends to go see "Night at the Museum". A comedy about a museum that comes to life at night and the night time security guard is responsible for keeping the place under control. He's not allowed to let anything out...or else they turn to dust when the sun hits them. I thought it was a wonderful family movie, one teeny tiny swear word in

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-79868247775923447602007-03-22T15:45:00.001-04:002007-09-04T15:45:08.252-04:00

With the prospect of buying a new home, I wanted to do some research on ways to saving a couple of dollars on bills and such (aka be a cheap skate...but hey...we need the money!) Me and Carrie were discussing the difference of her moving in when we're married on the electric bill and how we can offset some of that.Did you know that in electric it costs the following?Aquarium 30 gallon $3.67 /

Djnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5250453.post-61608432880826993922007-03-19T14:58:00.001-04:002007-03-19T14:58:49.827-04:00

Corniest Thing we ever did...If you've ever been on the ET ride at Universal Studios, they take your name as you enter because at the end of the ride, ET says thank you and your name.That being said, when we were seniors in High School, Ken, Justin and myself took Troy to Orlando for a weekend to celebrate Troy's 18th birthday. We decided that none of us had been to Universal STudios in a long

Djnoreply@blogger.com0