following the epic

2003-06-23T11:32:00.000-04:00

SIGNING OFF :::
I am going a way for awhile. I've got a lot of things that I just need to sort out right now. I don't want to be a pundit, I want to be a player... and I am just not sure what that looks like right now. Good-bye for a spell.

2003-06-20T20:48:00.000-04:00

MAN I'VE BEEN AWAY...
I've been blogging so infrequently that blogger changed the entire system unbeknowst to me. Oh well.
Truth be told, I've just been away from the computer for awhile. Reconnecting with God and life. The move here to Va Beach and the administrative stresses that starting a church creates was leaving me a bit cold. I needed some time to digest what is actually happening. Life can be such a whirlwind. I think I'm through it, so if I have any faithful readers left, thanks for bearing with me.
This past Wednesday was my b-day. 34 years have passed me by. I think I lived 20 of them between the ages of 18 and 24. Although birthdays tend to lose their significance as you age, I did pick up a new digital camera out of this year's gig.
Today, I played golf with great friends Rob, Todd, and Todd's dad Sid. Played on the peninsula of Hampton Roads at a course called Deers Run. Aptly named... as we saw at least 30 or so deer during the course of our round. Beautiful course on God's green earth. Oh, a golfer I am not. Checking out creation again was just nice for me. Sid and Todd have stellar games and Rob makes me look real bad too. OK though, I stopped keeping score years ago. It is just a game.
I've been away, but God is good and always near. Blessings to you and yours.

2003-06-12T17:21:00.000-04:00

SOMETHING WORTH BLOGGING ABOUT :::
It's obvious that I have not been very faithful to my blog lately. Truth is, I was sort of over it. Just kind of tired of being philosophical rather than physical. Don't get me wrong, I love journaling my thoughts, but at some point it started to feel like I was linking and not living. Besides, I haven't really had much too blog about lately, unless scrupulous details about our kitchen remodeling is something that you're into. All that changed this morning however...

EPIC CITY NOW HAS A FACILITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That's right. The long, arduous, often painful search is over. Our home starting Sept. 7th and thereafter will be Cooke Elementary on 15th St. and Mediterranean Ave down at the end of the continent. What a blessing! Praise God and thank you all for your prayers.

2003-06-06T15:49:00.000-04:00

TIME KEEPS ON SLIPPIN', SLIPPIN', SLIPPIN'... :::
I have been so busy lately, there has been little time for blogging. But here is a quick run down of the last three days of my life.

Tuesday: Closed on our house! WHAT A BLESSING! We are first time homeowners, so we're still a bit excited. Rounded the day off with a meeting with our mission coordinator and spent much of the rest of the day painting.

Wednesday: Lots of painting and redecorating. Lots of planning for our new summer campaign called ContagiousKindness. Watched "Catch me if you Can." Great film. One thing I take from it is how much we revere people of uniform, whether they are qualified or not. In our opening message series in September I was planning on using an anology of what power means in our society and representations of it. Contrasting that with how God views power and leadership as service. Sweet. Just picked up a film clip.

Thursday: More work on ContagiousKindness and more painting. Watched movie, "X-Men." Now I am dying to see X2.

An explanation of ContagousKindness seems in order. We will be be planning three major events this summer... SudStop Cafe, ShellShocked, and SaturationStations. Here is how I have explained them to our community...

What is SudStop Cafe? Well, on two different Sundays at 2 p.m., one on June 29th and the other on July 27th, we will be setting up shop at the Shell Station on Laskin Road at Regency Hilltop. We will be washing cars as a free service to our community. NO donations will be accepted. We will also serve light snacks and refreshments to be enjoyed by those waiting for their like new and improved vehicle.

What is ShellShocked? What would the 4th of July be without fireworks? Well, while the shells of the spectacular light show are bursting above, we will be dropping a few shells of our own down below... crunchy or soft shell that is. That’s right, during the fireworks display, Epic Storytellers will be loitering the premises giving away free tacos. NO charge and NO donations will be accepted.

And what are SaturationStations? It’s no secret that we are blessed to be living here on the edge of the continent. That is why the oceanfront communities of VA Beach are swarming with local and not-so local folk all summer long. These people are often hot, thirsty, and ripe for an Epic Experience. And that is why we will be there. At various times, we will be found amidst this sea of humanity offering nothing but free H20. That’s right, free. NO charge and NO donations.

Corny I know. But it just might work. Serving is, after all, the prologue in the telling of the EPIC Story.

2003-06-02T22:53:00.000-04:00

Met today and dropped off our official app for a possible facility for our Sept. 7th launch date and beyond. Please keep that in your prayers. Everything is coming together with the facility being the only major need right now. Lots of small things, but most of the major ones are covered.

Met with Stu tonight in regards to the web page. Lots of exciting stuff happening. He's working on a great flash intro and we will have some new interactive qualities to include e-cards and photo posting by our partners. Restructuring the look a tad as well to make it a bit more aged and sleek all at the same time. Great stuff. Stu is a literal God send. His web design partner Heath is to be commended as well. Thank you both.

We finally close on our house tomorrow. I will be so glad to have that behind us. God has really provided in a big way for us and we are thrilled to be back at the beach.

We will be starting our first LifeHouse here at the homestead in the next few weeks. Also have some community servant projects on the near horizon. Be on the lookout and keep your eyes on epiccitychurch.org.

2003-06-01T20:32:00.000-04:00

We attended a celebration for the 25th birthday of our good friend (and early adapter to the Epic vision) Jenn Schreck today. Her birthday is actually tomorrow. Jenn, we are wishing you the very best.

2003-06-01T20:28:00.000-04:00

We got everything moved in to our new house yesterday. It is nice to be settling in. We go to closing on Tuesday and I will be glad to have this behind us. I have come to equate getting a mortgage to getting an enema. In both cases you feel drained, cleaned out, and like you've just been through an ordeal. Crude but true.

2003-05-30T22:19:00.000-04:00

We just got back from the Concert at the Point. Tonight was "Better than Ezra." Good show. Opening act was "The Badlees." They hail from Pennsylvania and they were great.
We managed to get our hands on a VIP pass for the show. It's a free food and drink and hangout back stage kind of thing. Fun night. Spent a good portion of it reminiscing with long-time dear friend Rev. He's a great friend for a pastor to have because he knows everyone. The fact that he's a great guy is a real bonus.

2003-05-29T23:26:00.000-04:00

Blogging has been light as of late, but we have been sooooo busy. We are on a painting and re-decorating frenzy. This is actually the first time I have been on-line in several days.

Had a great breakfast meeting with Ben this morning. Our friendship means so much and it is always great when we get together.

Epic site is starting to take shape and I am excited about the future possibilities.

2003-05-24T13:20:00.000-04:00

There are very few films that I long to see enough to put up with a Friday Night at the local Theatre. Bruce Almighty was, however, such a film. I was intrigued to see how they would expose God and what route would the film eventually travel... a sovereign, loving God - or a bumbling,. hard hearted dictator?

Well, having been turned away because the film's time slot we wanted to view was sold-out, my intrigue only grew. Finally, after waiting in a line that was claustrophobic and lengthy just to be seated for a late night viewing, I was ready for anything. What I found was a charming and brilliant movie that addresses many struggles that we ordinary humans endure and a benevolent God who cares enough to ask about our heart's desires. I don't want to give the movie away... but the wife and I loved it. Well worth the long lines and the wait.

2003-05-23T10:28:00.000-04:00

I have been looking forward to the release of Bruce Almighty and today is the day. I found an interview with Tom Shadyac, the film's director... here is a quick look...

I think that one of the challenges of the church is to accept humanity for all it is. And I as a filmmaker am not going to deny that. I think it's important to acknowledge that we are imperfect. If you followed some standards today, you couldn't even read your Bible. I mean the Bible is chocked-full of some racy stuff, folks. There is a lot of sexual impropriety, there's a lot of violence, and all kind of things. But the point of the Bible is that it's not about a moment, its about the entire journey. Because if the Bible hadn't ended where it ended, it be a pretty downer of a book. But it ends with redemption. So if you take one sentence out of the Bible and that sentence deals with violence or sex, and you just focus on that sentence, you wouldn't want to go near the Bible. But if you look at the Bible as a whole, its redemptive and beautiful and it's God's love story to mankind. And this, in a way, is our love story, I hope, in dealing with our relationship with God.

Read the whole article here.

2003-05-20T14:41:00.000-04:00

"We never said we weren't Christians, we just said we weren't a Christian band," says Moody. "Then, all of a sudden, we were quite, quite evil."
Ben Moody of Evanescence on the latest controversy over "are they" or "aren't they?" Christians that is... more here.

2003-05-20T10:09:00.000-04:00

Back in town from what really was a great weekend in Tennessee. It was nice to do some actual ministry that did not involve admin. I used to travel quite a bit... speaking and leading worship, but I just can't take it. Even two days away from my wife and kids often ends up being more than I can bare. I am such a sap.

2003-05-15T21:59:00.000-04:00

I will be away in Tennessee this weekend speaking at a Youth Conference / Retreat. I fly out tomorrow. I hate flying. It's not the being in the air thing so much for me. It's really just a control issue. That's right... I hate the fact that I can't just get off the plane anytime I want.

The weekend theme is "Come Together." It is based on the Third Day record, but I can't help thinking of The Beatles.

2003-05-15T21:50:00.000-04:00

NO MORE YOUTH MINISTRY? :::
YS article by Dan Kimball

2003-05-14T17:05:00.000-04:00

THE EXPERIENCE OF GRACE :::
Philip Yancey talks about grace.

2003-05-13T16:20:00.000-04:00

Web site is now up. Just the initial home page at this time with much revamping to come. There were so many technical difficulties, but hopefully the worst is behind us. I really appreciate the work Stu has put in there and everything that he will be doing in the future is a great blessing to us.

We are still on the prowl for a facility. We have a great plan to launch and still need a building to do it in. God will work this out and I am looking forward to His provision.

Shaula and I have had many Divine encounters recently that have led to our sharing the Epic dream with strangers who have been very receptive. Thanks be to God.

2003-05-11T10:57:00.000-04:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY :::
Shaula awoke this morning at the prompting of our children who were bringing her breakfast in bed. It is a bit of a family tradition that we started several years back, but the great thing about this year was that I wasn't in on it at all. The kids totally prepared it themselves... the cereal, the bagel, the cinnamon toast... it was... well, a carbohydrate lovers dream come true. After offering the delightful morning meal starter, Logan and Laney than proceeded to help Shaula eat it. Adorable!

2003-05-10T21:49:00.000-04:00

Shaula and I spent the majority of the afternoon at a commencement party for our good friend Jami. She just received her graduate degree in counseling and social work. She is a great girl and such a hard worker. We are very proud of her. For her gift, my contribution was, other than the inspired Word of God, the most inspiring book I've ever read. It is the the co-written classic from Brent Curtis / John Eldredge called The Sacred Romance. Here is a favorite excerpt of mine...

"So many of the programs of modern Christianity with three steps to this and seven steps to that and a principle for everything are in fact an effort not to journey at all. More often than not, they are pursued with a desire to hunker down and make this life work, here, now. The Sacred Romance is not something to be managed, but to be lived. We cannot remove the element of mystery from the road before us nor can we eliminate the dangers. But we can learn from pilgrims who have gone before something of the road conditions, the weather, the hazards, and the places of rest and refreshment."

2003-05-10T21:39:00.000-04:00

"Life's dim window of the soul distorts the heavens from pole to pole, and leads you to believe a lie, when you see with, not through, the eye."
William Blake

2003-05-10T10:37:00.000-04:00

Starbuck's is now offering a Mocha Malt Frapuccino... DELICIOUS!!! As Shaula and I sat sipping on ours the other night, we discussed a strategy for launching Epic that is either entirely brilliant or just plain crazy... all great ideas are born in that heritage it would seem.

2003-05-08T10:34:00.000-04:00

After attending the Emergent Convention, Leadership Journal's Kevin Miller has 10 ?'s concerning Postmodernity and the church?

2003-05-07T21:38:00.000-04:00

Last night we went to P.F. Chang's China Bistro for dinner with great friends Stu and Jess. We had an awesome time and the food was amazing. Our waitress saw me as an easy target to pick on. Funny thing is, that happens to me often... and I love it. As we closed out dinner and she was taking our plates, I asked if she could guess my profession. Upon hearing that I was a pastor, she quickly said, "Robb, you are the last person in this restaurant I would have thought was a pastor!" I thought, "what a great thing to say."
Thank you Kate.

2003-05-06T22:55:00.000-04:00

Oswald Chambers describes my idealogy much better than I am often able to in today's entry of My Utmost...

A spiritually-minded person will never come to you with the demand-"Believe this and that"; a spiritually-minded person will demand that you align your life with the standards of Jesus. We are not asked to believe the Bible, but to believe the One whom the Bible reveals (see John 5:39-40 ). We are called to present liberty for the conscience of others, not to bring them liberty for their thoughts and opinions. And if we ourselves are free with the liberty of Christ, others will be brought into that same liberty—the liberty that comes from realizing the absolute control and authority of Jesus Christ.

Always measure your life solely by the standards of Jesus. Submit yourself to His yoke, and His alone; and always be careful never to place a yoke on others that is not of Jesus Christ. It takes God a long time to get us to stop thinking that unless everyone sees things exactly as we do, they must be wrong. That is never God’s view. There is only one true liberty— the liberty of Jesus at work in our conscience enabling us to do what is right.

Don’t get impatient with others. Remember how God dealt with you—with patience and with gentleness. But never water down the truth of God. Let it have its way and never apologize for it. Jesus said, "Go . . . and make disciples . . ." ( Matthew 28:19 ), not, "Make converts to your own thoughts and opinions."

2003-05-06T14:28:00.000-04:00

LOVE THE NEW LOOK JASON :::
Crosscurrent just got a whole new look to the blogspot. Inspiring. I may have to change mine again... but it does take way too long.

2003-05-06T11:15:00.000-04:00

A CALL TO ANYONE WHO EVER WANTED TO DO ANYTHING GREAT :::
Here's the point of gradual: You don't win an Olympic gold medal with a few weeks of intensive training. There's no such thing as an overnight opera sensation. Great law firms or design companies don't spring up overnight, like rock supergroups that decide to get together one weekend.

From a must read Fast Company article.

2003-05-06T10:16:00.000-04:00

We are starting to prepare for our summer schedule. Things are going much slower than I would like, but I am learning patience and trust, so... well, so! :) I am praying that God is bringing about all of these things on His time. This is His church and I am thankful to be reminded of that. For those of you in prayer... THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2003-05-03T20:58:00.000-04:00

THOSE CRAZY KIDS :::
We spent today at the Outer Banks of NC. Great fun with the family. Highlight was rolling down the sand dunes at Jockey's Ridge with my children. They have such an amazing energy and zeal for life. I told Shaula that I really want Epic to be the kind of church that has a child like faith. I love the endless enthusiasm and sense of wide-eyed wonder at the goodness of God's creation that only children can remind us of. And on a biased note, I have two of the greatest kids... here is a photo of the two of them at our house in Mooresville just before we moved back here to Virginia Beach.

2003-05-02T23:38:00.000-04:00

AN EPIC MEAL :::
Shaula and I spent the evening at The Melting Pot celebrating my sister's birthday. Two other couples and another of my sister's friends were there and we all had a great time.

If you read Leonard Sweet, maybe you've thought the same thing as us... The Melting Pot really offers an E.P.I.C. meal.

2003-04-30T11:11:00.000-04:00

WONDERFUL REMINDERS :::
Jason posted a Henri Nouwen quote yesterday that is quite telling...
I stumbled upon yet another Nouwen quote in Philip Yancey's latest CT article. This is how the segment reads...

---The goal of ministry, wrote Henri Nouwen, "is continually to recognize the Lord's voice, his face, and his touch in every person we meet." As though God were making his appeal through them, as well as through us.---

This article serves as a wonderful reminder of how we ought to view those who God brings into our lives.
How do we do this?
Well, Oswald offers some insight from today's installment of "My Utmost..."

2003-04-29T21:10:00.000-04:00

Website for Epic should go up sometime tonight. I am anxiously waiting.
We just finished watching American Idol. I think Clay has it won. He's from Carolina, so perhaps I'm partial.

2003-04-28T16:06:00.000-04:00

I AM 32 FLAVORS, AND THEN SOME... :::
April 29th finds Ben & Jerry's offering free ice cream... yeah, free!!! Then the next day, Baskin & Robbins is doing the same thing. I'm there.

2003-04-27T09:02:00.000-04:00

Me and the VCG's.

2003-04-27T08:57:00.000-04:00

Living in the living room at the VCG's.

2003-04-27T08:49:00.000-04:00

We're heading to Busch Gardens for a post-birthday celebration for Laney. My parents, sister, and in-laws are all coming along. Should be a great day and nice diversion for us.

2003-04-27T08:47:00.000-04:00

Here is an interesting article concerning the plights of cultural philosophical reasoning.

2003-04-27T08:45:00.000-04:00

Stu has the web page ready for the first phase launch. Should be live on Monday.

2003-04-27T08:44:00.000-04:00

Last two nights at the Epic VCG's were great. Both small and intimate. I have come to determine that when people don't get up and leave right away after the "event" is over, then there is a connectedness happening... community developing. Both nights found participants staying for over an hour after I was officially done with my diatribe. We are beginning to look ahead to the next step on the journey.

2003-04-24T11:21:00.000-04:00

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER :::
I am currently hashing out the details for this weekend's Vision Casting Gathering's. The two evening theme will be "Ordinary People... Extraordinary Possiblilities." Basing my opening on the third chapter of Acts where we find Peter and John noticing the ordinary people around them and their own ordinariness for perhaps the first time. It is as if a light bulb goes off and they suddenly realize the extraordinary possibilities in being ordinary and seeing the ordinary things around you... putting it all into the hands of Christ, the creator of all things... and then watching miracles happen. An amazing paradox.

2003-04-23T17:29:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :::
Today is my daughter's 5th birthday. My, how the years go by. She is beautiful and so full of life. I love you Laney. Happy Birthday!

2003-04-22T12:57:00.000-04:00

Spoke with my former Pastor, Mike, this morning. What a great man. He has been so instrumental in our planting of Epic and, recently, his advice has been rock solid. I was telling Shaula that I miss The Cove tremendously, but God is continuing a legacy of church planting through them. The Cove is only 4 years old itself and they are truly doing a great work for the Kingdom.

2003-04-22T09:12:00.000-04:00

THEY REALLY ARE AN AMAZING FAMILY :::
Yet another member of the Arment's has entered the blog sphere. What a group. I really think they are a very gifted family. Love the blogs too. I get to dream with and learn from fellow dreamer Ben... laugh and learn from fellow artist Heather... pick up great recipes and life lessons from Cheryl... and now Biblical counsel from Alan. It's all too good. I am a proud sponsor of the Arment family blog roll.

2003-04-21T16:52:00.000-04:00

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO DREAMING DREAMS? :::
Church planting can be frustrating. It is certainly not for the faint of heart. I have spent the greater part of two weeks in the administrative trenches and I have had just about all that I can take. I'm an artist at heart. I like to see the metaphor in everything. And I do mean everything. Symbolism rules my thought processes and that leaves little room for the gift of admin. There are times when I ask myself why do I do all of this? The greatest rebuttle I can muster is that all of the admin headaches lead to opportunities to share life's greatest story. 'nough said!

2003-04-20T21:52:00.000-04:00

Shaula and I saw the movie TRAFFIC a few years back and I remember joking that they must have named it for the D.C. Beltway. Well, having just returned from a Easter weekend in the suburbs of our nation's capital, I can tell you what an understatement that really is. Feels like we spent the majority of the time hanging out in a parking lot.

On a serious note, this morning at History was great. Ben gave a fantastic message and playing with Lianna was a real treat. I look forward to our next visit.

Happy Resurrection Day to all!!!!!

2003-04-18T10:06:00.000-04:00

Sitting in my father-in-laws office as I post. In the background, I hear the sounds of saws and other demolition devices as the in-laws are currently having their master bath remodeled. Reminds me of the importance of the master suite. You see, the master suite is the master bed & bath in our vision entitled "A Place Called Home." These rooms remind us of the personal side of our spiritual journey and the importance of preparing for the day by spending time with God.

I can't help but think of all of the times that my spiritual, personal time with God has been subjected to the sounds of saws and other demolition devices. Hmmmm.

2003-04-16T20:19:00.000-04:00

Today, we took a major step forward at Epic. We are much closer to securing a location for our All-Group Gatherings. Could even sign a contract in the next 10 days. Would be sooner, but the facility's coordinator is out of town starting tomorrow and all through next week :(
At any rate, it is a great blessing. The location would offer us instant ambience and an environment that is perfect for a stellar children's ministry. Very exciting.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to Northern VA. Spending a couple of days with family (my in-laws) and then Easter morning at History with Ben and Ains. Can't wait.

2003-04-15T21:35:00.000-04:00

Another member of the amazing Arment family is blogging. Heather is her name. She is so incredibly talented. A must for the blog roll.

2003-04-15T19:22:00.000-04:00

THE FACILITY HUNT CONTINUES :::
Today, we continued the task of searching for a facility. It seems that one may be a real gem. Just depends on availability now. I'm really praying that God will open a door here.

Our cable modem problems finally seem to be behind us. Wow. What a test of patience.

Shaula and I met with our great friend, Jenn, last night for dinner. She is a real spark plug and I am so looking forward to her involvement with Epic.

I recently read some info published by Andy Stanley that said that great leaders know their vision and that is not up for compromise. However, plans and ways to accomplish that vision are always open for interpretation and re-discussion. I am learning on the job as a church planter that there is real wisdom in those comments.

2003-04-14T15:28:00.000-04:00

Still having trouble with my internet account. The cable company is on the way over. Here is what was to be yesterday's post...

We've been having trouble with the cable modem. This is the first time I've been able to get on-line all day. Repair tech is scheduled to come out tomorrow, but still very frustrating as I spend a majority of office work time at my desk surfing and researching on the net.

Went to Jason's service today at CrossCurrent. Great time. Intimate service. He is doing a great work for the Kingdom and we were happy to be able to show our support.

This week we will be in the DC area spending Easter service with Ben at History. I will be helping to lead worship and playing another role as well. Should be great fun. Ben and I haven't been able to work together in a long time. I'm really looking forward to it.

It is amazing how God has brought other church planters into my life as we prepare to dive into our Epic journey. Birds of a feather... or something like that.

2003-04-12T20:54:00.000-04:00

I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW THE RAIN HAS GONE :::
It has been cold, rainy, and windy everyday since we've been here. Until today. The sun was shining bright... not a cloud in the sky... beautiful. It is amazing what that will do to your mood.

Helped out with a move today and then had a great lunch with great friends, Rob & Jami. Good times.

We are continuing the hectic search for a facility to rent for all all-group public services. Much prayer needed here. If you are so inclined, thanks in advance.

2003-04-10T15:30:00.000-04:00

Just returned from a great lunch meeting with my sister and a friend of hers who may be able to provide some assistance to Epic. Great time. Busy day. Logan is about to get off the school bus. It's so great how both Logan and Laney have adapted to our new environment so quickly. They are both really thriving in their new schools and in our new neighborhood. It is truly a load off of my mind and Shaula's as well.

2003-04-09T20:21:00.000-04:00

Many appointments tomorrow. Feeling very excited about some recent clarity to our vision for launching. Funny though, the clarity seemed to come yet again on the heels of a potential storm. God has a marvelous way of keeping me completely dependant on Him, and for that I am grateful.

2003-04-09T19:10:00.000-04:00

BACK IN THE CYBER WORLD :::
Getting settled in Virginia Beach. Things are going great. The kids have started in their new schools and are thriving. They have already made new friends and reconnected with old ones.

We found out today that our mortgage is approved and I can't say what a blessing that is. I am thrilled.

And of course, I am back on-line and better than ever. Finally made the jump to cable modem with high-speed internet. No more dial-up for me. Again, what a blessing.

2003-04-04T10:32:00.000-05:00

I HATE MOVING :::
This will more than likely be my last post for a few days. Spending the rest of today and the weekend in the trenches. Moves are horrible.

ON A BRIGHTER NOTE :::
I received an amazing phone call from a young lady at World Vision yesterday. She was contacting me in regards to our support of One Life Revolution. We weren't on the phone long when I informed her that I was on my way to plant a church. What happened then was nothing short of a miracle. She asked if she could pray for me. I said, "Yeah!" She then went on to pray the most authoritative, God authored, inspiring prayer I have ever heard. She prayed for specific things about our lives that she could have had no idea about if not for the Holy Spirit talking through her. I was blown away. Reduced to tears afterwards... knowing I had just been in the presence. Words cannot say what a blessing it was.

2003-04-02T18:05:00.000-05:00

My son Logan has given up blogging for now. It actually held his attention a little longer than I expected.

2003-04-02T16:13:00.000-05:00

GEARING UP :::
Not only are we moving this weekend, but I am already looking ahead to our Vision Casting Gathering's... coming in just 3 1/2 weeks.
I've been working on a graphic for the invitation.
I've been having trouble puttting graphics on my blog, but here goes...

2003-04-02T08:56:00.000-05:00

TIRED OF THE DEBATE? :::
Maybe you are like me and you are tired of the debate over whether or not we are involved in a just war. I have intentionally not given my consideration or time to the topic on this blog. But I have noticed that many people, whom I have grown to respect as brothers and sisters in Christ, have very differing opinions on this and many other political issues. Can I just ask that we "love one another" in the process of disagreement, regardless of your ideology? Love is, after all, how Jesus said we would be known as His disciples (John 13:35).

I have often thought, as many others do, that politics are so very divisive. And when we allow our politics to take root in or to even shape our faith… Well, then we are not far from self-righteous slander.

2003-04-01T07:55:00.000-05:00

Heading off to get my car fixed again today. Hope the damage is not to steep.
I have found myself operating with virtual blinders on lately. With so much to do, I can literally only focus on the next few hours in order to function. I am really looking forward to being back in Virginia Beach doing ministry. Having the opportunity to return and serve my hometown is very cool.

2003-03-31T22:38:00.000-05:00

Spent the bulk of the afternoon and evening putting finishing touches on our first newsletter. They will be in the mail tomorrow. I have been doing so much admin lately, and I hate it. That will be a real need for us and I will be searching fervantly for the help.

Shaula had some of the girls from her small group helping to pack tonight. Yes, we did have pizza. Those girls are so special. A few more are scheduled to come over tomorrow night to offer more assistance. We will definitely miss them and many others here in NC.

2003-03-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

I had the great privilege of participating in the baptism celebration at The Cove last night. What a swan song. I was able to baptize three very special ladies.

Working hard this week to prepare for the big move on Saturday. We have a group of girls from Shaula's small group heading over tonight to help us pack. Sounds like we're having pizza for dinner.

2003-03-29T19:26:00.000-05:00

Stu shot me a first look at his initial prototype for the Epic web page. Needless to say, he does great work. It looks amazing. I am really excited about it. Hope to have it up and running on-line by mid April, sometime before our Vision Casting Gatherings on the 25th and 26th.
_________

Last night, we spent the evening at a farewell party hosted by our great friends Dee and Doug Neal. Dee is with child and I could tell she was a bit waxed by the evening's end. We really appreciate her. We will be telling her story at the EPIC VCG's at the end of April. Great story it is too.
_________

Shaula is out tonight with Laney. They are at a play (Grease) at one of the local high schools supporting some of the students who have been involved here in our ministry at The Cove.
Logan and I are staying in to watch more basketball. Nothing like the NCAA's.

2003-03-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

BLOWIN' MY MIND AGAIN :::
Today's Oswald entry is once again fantastic. Enjoy this sample and then try the entire entree:

"Jesus rarely comes where we expect Him; He appears where we least expect Him, and always in the most illogical situations. The only way a servant can remain true to God is to be ready for the Lord’s surprise visits. This readiness will not be brought about by service, but through intense spiritual reality, expecting Jesus Christ at every turn. This sense of expectation will give our life the attitude of childlike wonder He wants it to have. If we are going to be ready for Jesus Christ, we have to stop being religious. In other words, we must stop using religion as if it were some kind of a lofty lifestyle-we must be spiritually real."

2003-03-28T11:01:00.000-05:00

Where is the line of being hip and trying to be hip... and who determines that?

2003-03-28T10:59:00.000-05:00

IT'S YOUNG, IT'S HIP, AND IT'S CHRISTIAN :::
The Orlando Sentinel gives Relevant some coverage.

2003-03-28T10:55:00.000-05:00

AS OPPOSSED TO? :::
Found this site called Cool Churches. Baptist State Convention of NC behind it.

2003-03-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

THE NEW WAVE OF WAR PROTESTORS :::
Ryan Smith makes a good case in this article from Relevant. Here is a taste...

"In my opinion, all of the marches, sit-ins and candlelight vigils across the county have little to do with the plight of the Iraqis. If it was about the citizens of Iraq, then why weren’t these same people protesting Saddam Hussein’s inhumane treatment of the Iraqi and Kurdish people? Instead of duct taping street poles and holding rallies at Boeing plants, why don’t they send money or food to help the starving families in Iraq?

Why? Because it’s about community. It’s about purpose. It’s about attempting to fulfill the innate desire God has placed in all of us to be apart of something greater than ourselves.

As I thought about it more, I found a striking similarity between a vast number of war protestors and Christians. War protestors make their sloganeered signs, go to a politically rally for two hours and punch in their “philanthropy” time card for a few hours a week. Then they live the rest of the week however they want to. They may hold an “anti-war” philosophy in their minds, but “world peace” is an abstract concept that has little impact on their everyday lives.

Is it really that much different than Christians who dress up on Sunday morning and go to a Church service for a couple of hours to punch in a “God” time card? Many believers know shockingly little about the Bible. Instead they hold a “Christian philosophy” that’s used mainly to speak out against the evils of the world (abortion, homosexuality, drugs) but has little influence on day-to-day living."

Hhhhhmmmmm.

2003-03-27T08:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday found me in recovery. Today will likely bring more of the same. You see, Tuesday night, I went out and played a little basketball with some of the fellas. Unbeknownst to me, I picked up a knee injury somewhere along the way. I woke up Wednesday morning with it swelled up and very little mobility. Frustrating.... because I don't even know how or when exactly it happened. It feels a bit better this morning, so that is a good thing I guess.
Funny thing is, between Shaula's ankle and my knee, we both are feeling the years we have put behind us. Her getting hurt just walking, and me picking up injury... perhaps in my sleep.

2003-03-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

Packing is going slow, but it is moving thanks to Shaula. Our move date is next Saturday, the 5th. Anyone who wants to help is welcome. Bring your muscle and get ready to hustle.

The Cove's site got an update. I, of course, am not on it. They are considering posting a link to Epic's site as soon as we get it up. Work has begun on it... so, coming soon.

2003-03-24T12:10:00.000-05:00

I had written a seemingly, at the time, significant post with regards to some thoughts on the war. I was really trying to see the different perspectives. Suddenly, I was reminded that I am the first to get my feathers ruffled over preachers turned politicians, so I deleted the post. I have decided instead to "seek first God's Kingdom." Realizing all the while that any other King and/or Kingdom will surely pass away.
Thank you Shaula.

2003-03-23T17:45:00.000-05:00

IS IT JUST ME? :::
I must confess that Shaula and I have been a bit down and out these last few days. Her ankle sprain has reduced her to laying on the couch while I watch the NCAA tourney. This of course doesn't provide the most thrilling moments for her. Of course, at times she admits that some of the games are exciting. Anyway, during breaks and off and on, we of course are flipping back to the war coverage. It is sobering. I hate war, and yet as is visible on Ben's blog, there have been very few times in history without it.

Needless to say, I am not taking lighlty that we have been called to plant this church in Virginia Beach, an enormous military area... during a time of war. God is indeed sovereign and we are counting on His power and strength to guide us. Blessings to all those soldiers and their families. No one cries like a mother cries for peace on earth.

2003-03-22T23:33:00.000-05:00

SAYING GOODBYE :::
Tonight began the arduous process of saying goodbye to the great people of The Cove. Tomorrow morning's services will complete my time there and then it is on to a full-time effort into Epic City.

I am beginning to realize that planting a church brings about a most interesting paradox of thoughts and feelings. I was explaining to those in attendance at tonight's service that I often find that I feel very brave, and yet almost crippled with fear at the same moment. Sometimes I feel very smart, while feeling quite stupid at the same time. Honestly, I've learned to agree with Oswald Chambers who warns that following Christ rarely makes sense from a human perspective. That being said, I think I'm on the right track.

2003-03-20T19:22:00.000-05:00

YOU BECOME A MONSTER BECAUSE YOU THINK THEY ARE MONSTERS? :::
There are many anti-war protests going on that involve violence. On the radio, I just heard about another one in Paris where protesters threw bricks through the windows of a McDonald's and then tried to torch the place.
Is it just me, or does it seem absurd to protest war by using violence?
It seems many could learn from Martin Luther King, Jr., who set an example of non-violent protests regardless of the situation.

2003-03-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

WHEN IT RAINS... :::
Yesterday Shaula sprained her ankle. It's a pretty nasty little injury and quite a set back for us as we really need to be packing our house... and honestly, she's the best packer. Needless to say, I have had to pick up some extra tasks as a result.

So last night it starts raining. And it was accompanied by thunder and lightning.
On a side note, it was sort of odd as we were sitting... watching bombs in the middle east on television... listening to thunder claps outside.
But anyway, the rain just kept on coming down. All through the night. 3 to 5 inches. While I normally love the sound of rain outside at night, I despise the sound of rain inside in the morning. And that's exactly what we heard. Leaks from the ceilings of 3 rooms is what we awoke to. All in the midst of needing to pack. Ughh!

2003-03-19T19:11:00.000-05:00

REELING WITH THE FEELING :::
Dennis Miller, never short on opinions, has some definitive ones regarding terrorism, George W., liberals, and Iraq. Here are some of them from his January Tonight Show appearance.

2003-03-19T10:35:00.000-05:00

IT'S GOT A BACK BEAT :::
Sunday night, I watched the airing of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees for 2003. Interesting ceremonies to say the least, with the "F" Bomb being dropped with the same regularity that Smart Bombs are about to be dropped in Iraq. There were some stellar performances throughout the evening, but the one that soared above the rest, by far for me, was that of The Police. There was never a sound like theirs before them, and there hasn't been one like it since. I could easily say they had a profound impact on my early teens, musically speaking. The Righteous Brothers turned in a nice performance also. Who knew?

2003-03-19T08:08:00.000-05:00

CLOSING IN ON THE DEADLINE :::
It would appear that war is a certainty at this point. I love the comments from "thoughts on war" on Ben's blog yesterday. I too have reserved comments on the war situation, but must at the very least say that... as flawed as we are as a country... because we can verbally bash our own without fear of death... in spite of all of our shortcomings... this is still a great nation and wishing for our own demise is strangely disturbing to me as well.

2003-03-17T08:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a snap shot of a vision called "A Place Called Home." I borrowed the original concept from North Point, but then seriously ran with it. Since we are home based, this really works nicely for us... with each area of the home representing an environment that is crucial to being and growing disciples.

2003-03-17T08:32:00.000-05:00

I have really been praying more intensely for God to call out those who He has planned to commit to our Core Group. Church planting is tough business, and there is strength in numbers (Eccl. 4:9-12).

2003-03-16T17:00:00.000-05:00

Just pulled in from our trip to Va Beach. Still shell shocked a bit from how much housing prices have sky-rocketed there in the last two years. Unbelievable. Upwards of 30 - 40%. An otherwise good trip however. Met with great friends Stu and Jess Perkins on Thursday night. They are such a great couple. They will be leading our praise time at our Vision Casting Gatherings in April. Stu is also going to help design our web page. What a blessing they are.

2003-03-12T08:58:00.000-05:00

Jason's got a great quote on his blog from Tuesday.

2003-03-12T08:48:00.000-05:00

The majority of the last two days have found me in front of my computer feverishly working on brochures and website material for our upcoming April Vision Casting Gatherings. Creatively speaking, I was on a roll... but now I'm whipped.

The only break I took was to go play basketball with some of the fellas from The Cove last night up at Troutman Middle School. On the court, let's just say... I was not on a roll, but I am still whipped from the experience.

Heading out in about a half hour to Virginia Beach. Looking for a place to live. We are inside four weeks of our move date. Exciting times. I will try to post a couple of entries during my visit.

2003-03-09T17:16:00.000-05:00

WHY DO HAVE TO GO AND MAKE THINGS SO COMPLICATED? :::

I have been thinking about being specific about some of our goals at EPIC. And one primary goal is to keep it simple. I really think that the church has made things so complicated at times, when in fact, the Gospel is so amazingly un-complicated. It's so simple, it is beautiful. So simple, we almost can't get our hands on it.

One of our main efforts is to create environments that are conducive to building natural relationships, rather than forced friendships. Avoiding the temptation to start up droves of special needs ministries that only end up burning out volunteers... leaving them feeling that they must attend yet another church event to be spiritual. By building natural relationships, we can overcome the propensity for burn-out by immersing ourselves in true community. Where people are no longer "attending more church events," but getting together with the people of the church. Not programatic, but automatic.

The beauty of EPIC City Church is I will get to see if my dreams will actually come true.

2003-03-08T21:13:00.000-05:00

I have been praying and steadfastly racking my brain to come up with a simple, and yet articulate, way to communicate our strategy at Epic. Today, I felt a bit of a revelation and will be be spending the bulk of the next two days trying to hash it out. God is definitely refining the vision more and more each day. For this, I am so very grateful.

2003-03-07T09:09:00.000-05:00

"Visitors today comment on the scarcity of smiles, rudeness on the subways, the fear of crime, the quantity of alcohol consumed. Russian politicians complain about the lack of honesty and charity, and even commission foreign organizations to teach the Ten Commandments in the schools."

::: From Philip Yancey's most recent article posted at CT.

It's odd, because I grew up during the cold war. A time in America, whether intentional or not, when we were trained to hate the Russians. I have spent my adult life trying to overcome an anomosity towards their country. It would seem now that compassion is definitely in order.

2003-03-07T08:05:00.000-05:00

I got my Genealogical Fan Chart from Martha Stewart's organization in the mail yesterday. It is a fantastic visual for how we plan to use reproducible models... showing the power of growth through multiplication rather than addition. I borrowed this idea from a fantastic visionary named Ben.

2003-03-06T13:46:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the books I am interested in purchasing. Just waiting for the funds (ya know, payday).

2003-03-05T15:43:00.000-05:00

DARE YOU TO MOVE :::
These already inspiring lyrics from Switchfoot's song are ones that I am planning to use to motivate attenders at our Vision Casting Gatherings. Daring them to move from a place of hearing the vision to participating in the vision. Coming to an understanding that no matter where they have been, God can use there ordinary efforts for something extraordinary.

I find the title speaking more to me today as we will literally be moving in a month. Here are the words...
___________________
Welcome to the planet
Welcome to existence
Everyone's here
Everybody's watching you now
Everybody waits for you now
What happens next?

I dare you to move
I dare you to move
I dare you to lift yourself up off the floor
I dare you to move
I dare you to move
Like today never happened
Today never happened before

Welcome to the fallout
Welcome to resistence
The tension is here
Between who you are and you could be
Between how it is and how it should be

Maybe redemption has stories to tell
Maybe forgiveness is right where you fell
Where can you run to escape from yourself?
Where you gonna go?
Where you gonna go?
Salvation is here

2003-03-05T14:50:00.000-05:00

KICKIN' IT INTO OVERDRIVE :::
We have a serious change of plans. Our move date has been pushed up to April 5th. I will be meeting with our small groups for the next couple of weeks and then my responsibilities with The Cove will be complete.

Although we are a bit shell-schocked about moving in the next month, it is a real answer to prayer. We will be taking a trip to Virginia Beach next week to secure a place to live amongst other important details. We have just taken a giant step closer to the gathering of Virginia Beach's EPIC City Church.

2003-03-04T10:10:00.000-05:00

I picked this quote up from the blog of Jordon Cooper. It is quite thought provoking...

"It occurred to me that in our work with secular organizations, the leader shapes the heart and passion of the corporate entity. In our work with non-profit organizations, we have found the same principle to be operative. When it comes to the focus of the organization, the people who serve there tend to take on many of the core personality traits of the leader toward fulfilling the mandate of the oganization. If this is true, and most churches seem to lack the fervor and focus for evangelism, is it reasonable to conclude that it may be because of the lack of zeal most pastors have for identifying, befriending, loving and evangelizing non-Christian people?"
... George Barna

2003-03-04T09:17:00.000-05:00

MAN, I NEEDED THAT :::
This morning I woke up "raw." Yesterday was tough. It was a battleground for the spirits and for a few moments, it seemed that I was pulling for the wrong side. Satan is literally the "accuser." Yesterday, I was the accused and I started to believe that I was worthless in the face of not only ministry, but life.

But then this morning, as I seemingly gave a literal defining of "dragging myself out of bed," I prayed a most honest and stripped down prayer. It wasn't pretty. It certainly was not eloquent. But it was real. And soon the Holy Spirit of the Living God was defining for me His most glorious roles as "Comforter and Counselor." And like poor little Much Afraid coming out of the Valley of Humiliation, I began to be grateful that Sorrow and Suffering are a part of the journey to the High Places. Because they help me to realize yet again that this is not about me, it is about God. It is about not only knowing God, but making Him known.

Again, I defer to Oswald Chambers...
Never consider whether or not you are of use—but always consider that "you are not your own" ( 1 Corinthians 6:19 ). You are His.

2003-03-03T22:02:00.000-05:00

One of my goals as a follower of Christ is to be honest. Well, honestly, today stunk. One of the hardest days I've had to endure in a long time. I pray that I will not have to endure another like it again for a long time.

2003-03-02T22:16:00.000-05:00

Great night tonight. It was probably the last of my CAMPus OUTreach events. Wonderful time. I have loved being a part of The Cove Church and have been blessed to meet so many incredible people during this stage of my journey. I thank God for the leadership and friends that I have been touched by.

2003-02-28T16:12:00.000-05:00

MOVING BEYOND SUNDAY-CENTRIC :::
Great article from next-wave. Here is a snippet:

Recently I (Mike) heard Todd Hunter reference a statistic that 80% of the time, energy, and money spent by many churches goes towards making weekend services happen. Now I’m an industrial engineer by training and the idea of spending 80% of my resources on one thing offends my cost-conscious sensibilities. This focused expenditure has had many consequences. In my experience “Sunday-Centric” churches are always fighting to keep up with the Joneses. In the name of relevancy, enormous sums of money are spent aimed at keeping the attention of a congregation immersed in a market-driven world. Americans (Christians included) are, what Gordon Cosby suggests, “Addicted to culture.” It is naïve to suppose that presenting the Gospel, the way of Jesus, in a mass-marketing style will do anything else than feed into consumer tendencies. In this article, T and I want to suggest a polemic for combating a consumer-driven orientation and hopefully become the kind of communities who consistently demonstrate the reality of the kingdom to a desperate culture.

2003-02-28T09:03:00.000-05:00

AUTHENTICATING AUTHENTICITY :::
In a time when buzzwords are as rampant as ever in ministry circles, the word "authenticity" is right up there with the best of 'em.
But, honestly (for lack of a better term), there are some real signs of evidence that this word, (or at the very least, its intended meaning), should be relevant to our cause.

Think of it, reality t.v. shows are all the rage, with most people stating that they enjoy them for the realism... wanting to see real human behavior. Now whether you believe the folks in Hollywood are manipulating it or not... the fact remains that people believe it is real and, therefore, that is why they enjoy it.

This concept has even taken root in the world of music video. Case in point is the latest from Johnny Cash.
There is a real "stripping down" thing happening. It's a back to basics approach that revolves around human character. It has become the conciense of our culture.

Meanwhile, we talk big in regards to "authenticity" in the fields of our ministry. And I wonder, are we really willing to be vulnerable? Are we o.k. with being naked emotionally in the midst of our people? Are we willing to wash the feet of those that are amongst us? Oswald Chambers calls this becoming "broken bread and poured-out wine in the hands of Jesus Christ for the sake of others."

Is this too high a price to pay?
Reality t.v. is one thing, authenticating the gospel is quite another.

2003-02-27T17:39:00.000-05:00

10 AND COUNTING :::
10 years ago today, I married the most amazing woman. She is the greatest life partner... a literal God send... and the best part is, she never stops shocking me. Happy Anniversary Shaula!

2003-02-27T08:46:00.000-05:00

ANOTHER nICE DAY? :::
Woke up this morning, and everything was covered in ice... again. We have had more than our share of cold, wet, weather this winter. Problem is it rains and freezes on the power lines, trees, and streets. And it actually is quite beautiful, if you have nothing to do but sit around and stare at it. But when you have to go on living despite the inclement conditions, well then...

2003-02-25T14:31:00.000-05:00

HELPING HANDS :::

Recently, we have been trying to tackle the tough issues regarding children's ministry in the context of an organic home group gathering. For advice, we have contacted several churches. And I have been touched greatly at the timely responses from some of them. They are churches who have a like-minded vision with us. And they have been so helpful. Here are some...
Apex
Matthew's House
Imago Dei

2003-02-25T14:22:00.000-05:00

OSWALD AGREES :::

Today's Oswald Chambers entry totally expresses the same thought I had in my previous post. Except I think he says it a lot better than I did. Check it out here.

2003-02-24T23:13:00.000-05:00

WHILE I'M AT IT... :::
Something occurred to me as I was watching the Grammy's with my wife last night. It's amazing how many different types of music there are out there. You got bluegrass, country & western, jazz, hip hop, rock (which includes southern, hard, metal, soft), pop, classical, latino, etc, etc... And then there's all the ones that they give awards for before airtime on tv... it's endless.
So then I got to thinking about fashion. Think of all the different fashions that can be popular at any one given time.
And then there's sports. I mean, some people I know here in NC actually follow NASCAR like they are Dead Heads without the tie-dye.
And while we are at it, what about food? Don't even get me started here.
And it dawns on me... we like variety!!! By we, I mean people... mankind. By variety... well, you know what I mean.
I know... what's the point?

Well, it is so clearly obvious that we as a human race are very much the same in many ways, and yet so unique as individuals at the very same time. And it seems equally obvious that we are acting in the nature of our Creator... who gave us all these unique dispositions and offered us His very image.

Why is it then, that when someone decides that they want to follow Christ, we so very often decide that they must look, act, talk, dress, impress, walk, sing, dance (or not)... a certain way. Is it not God who gave us our unique individuality? Is it not God who gave us each our own gifts? And the only requirement would be that we were to use them in service to others (1 Peter 4:10).

Imagine, teaching one another by serving one another... and letting Christ do the fixing up.
And yet, still, we often try to manufacture what we think are "good Christians."
Why must we make things so hard?

2003-02-24T12:20:00.000-05:00

SPEAKING OF EVEN MORE in-FIGHTING... :::
It is really very odd, and yet tragic. Sorry, I'm already in mid-thought. Let me back up a tad. You see, I have recently had some distressing conversations with several adults who are heavily intrenched in church service. And yet, when they speak, they speak with no confidence. When they attend church (an unbiblical concept... you know, because we are the church, we don't attend it), they act as the spiritual gistapo... policing rather than proclaiming, working rather than relating, and whining rather than dreaming. Silky comfort zones have replaced spiritual combat zones. Sure, God could part the Red Sea. He could bring down the Walls of Jericho. Hey, He could even come to earth, die on a cross, and raise Himself from the dead for that matter. But we don't expect Him to bring about real biblical community amongst his people in 2003.

I am being extreme here to make a point.

I don't mean to sound harsh, but honestly, I have had it! I have had it up to here (I am holding my hand up to my head now) with people who have been active attenders of church, and yet are ravaged by such little confidence in God that real biblical community has become "idealistic." I mean, how is this possible?

Well, I for one refuse to believe such pessimism. I am holding on to hope, the gift of love that God has poured into our hearts (Romans 5:5). Now is not the time for cynicism, now is the time to dream dreams.
Honestly, I may take this post off later on today. I will probably read it later, feel convicted for seeing the anger in it, and then remove it. But as I have said before, I realized that this blog can be cathardic for me. And yes... I feel a little better now :)