Doug's Blog

First Love is...About Kingdom growth

2011-09-28T09:24:00.002-05:00

Sorry I saw this post that was supposed to be published weeks ago and apparently was only saved as a draft.

It is very easy for a church to become church growth oriented. Why not? If the church grows then more people are hearing the gospel, and more people are being connected to Jesus. The problem, however, is when we get offended when they go to other churches. Yes we want them to attend church...if it's our church.

What if a church wanted to see the Kingdom of God grow, not just their church? That would change everything. If my goal as a Christian/Pastor/Minister was to increase the Kingdom of God and not to increase my church attendance, I have a new agenda. I'm no longer concerned with where you go to church, as long as you are chasing after God, as long as you are growing and wrestling with His word. I now care about you, because God loves you, not because you have a bunch of kids that would fill our youth ministry (this may or may not be a thought I've had in the past).

When a church grasps this, we see true unity. We see pastors not talking about their numbers and how great everything is, but instead praying for each other because they can all get beat up sometimes. We hear people say things like " __________ church has a ministry you would love, you should go check it out." instead of "we should start the same ministry. Look how successful it is over ther." There is nothing wrong with doing a ministry other churches are doing, but there is also nothing wrong with joining together!

At First Love we want to empower the ministries in our community, even if they aren't recognized as "ministries". Whether they are through local or federal government, or secular non-profits, or even other churches.

What I learned today

2011-09-28T09:19:00.002-05:00

It is early. I started writing this post at 9:11am on a Wednesday. I learned something about myself today. I learned that my belief is more important than facts. I'm not talking about my spiritual beliefs, (although I don't blame you for assuming that since it tends to be my subject matter) I mean that even though there are things that aren't moving forward in my life, I'm not discouraged. Even if my successes aren't piling up in front of me I know, I believe, I am going in the right direction. If I were "being successful" somewhere else, I'd be doing the wrong things.

I guess it is the Placebo Effect. And I think I'm OK with that. I'm not miserable. I'm content. I am moving forward. Do I want success? Yes. But success could spring out at literally any moment. I'm putting myself in the correct places to see it when it is ready for me. Until then, I just have to help others see how easy it could be to move from small crushing failures to monumental success, in whatever form of life it presents itself in.

I'm just a Kirby salesman

2011-09-26T14:21:00.002-05:00

A few months ago, when I'd meet new people, things would start great. We would talk about weather, Iowa football, or whatever the circumstances we met under were. At some point, however, they would ask me the conversation killer "...so what do you do for a living?" Almost every time I told them the truth about being a Youth Pastor they would change. They may change from someone who was formerly swearing and telling me about their drug use, into a saint that only talks in church language. Or they may change from a pleasant person, into someone that now hates me, because they assume i'm judging them.

I could be writing a blog post about my loss. I once had a title, now I don't. I'm a guy that "is trying to start a church" (it doesn't look good on a business card, I've tried). But I'm not writing that blog post. I'm writing as someone that can now relieve concern by telling people what I do. "What church do I go to? Why? Are you a Pastor or something?" to which I reply, "I'm just a Kirby salesman."

Things have changed for me. My routine is different than when I was paid to vision the future of my ministries. But it works. I am finding out that Kirby salesmen can be in full-time ministry too.

First Love Is...Sending ministers into the world

2011-08-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

I have been a part of many things that were running swimmingly. Everything seems perfect and then...someone tells us they are leaving. It can be devastating. The most talented singer in the band is going to lead worship as a full-time job. A youth volunteer is going back to college with a renewed passion to make a difference in the world. Or even a small group leader wanting to split because of rapid growth.

These things are not bad things. But transition is difficult, even painful. What I have noticed is this: When someone leaves for a great reason (like following their call by God, or education for their passion), or even for a plain old real reason (being in need of a break, or stress), we think of ourselves. "How am I going to get along now?" It's a natural question.

But what if we had an attitude of sending people out? What if we accepted that our role was to take these ideas, these questions, our strengths, our experiences, and spread them around the world? What if we were like a dandelion? We grow, we mature, and we spread.

First Love will be encouraging and celebrating those that are graduating and moving away, those that are following their dreams, their calls into ministry, their next adventure. When a small group needs to split off because they are too big, the original small group will adopt them. They will be like proud parents of a new baby small group, scouring for ways to encourage and bless them. And like any good parent, they will immediately badger them about when they can expect grand-babies.

A healthy dandelion produces more dandelions. It's hard to do that if the seed never leaves home.

First Love Is...A church of small groups

2011-08-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

"If we aren't connected we are disconnected, and that doesn't sound... very good." ~Doug Cloven

It is very easy to go to a church no matter the size and get lost, or go unnoticed. Not because people ignore you. But because its hard to make a connection in a worship service setting. It is not designed to connect people. It is designed to help us...worship God.

Therefore, we must either get connected elsewhere (small groups) or change the design of a worship service. Whichever you choose we realize that relationships are what the kingdom of God are about. Love. Not love like, how I love burritos. Love as in, being there for people and letting people be there for you.

We believe that it is more important for people to be in intentional relationship with each other, than it is for them to be organized in contemporary (or traditional) church worship services. By intentional I mean they are there to ask hard questions of each other, pray for each other, and hold each other accountable.

Our first phase, as First Love, is to start small groups. To train leaders and get them in dorm rooms, bars, Village Inns, and even in churches, to love people.

If you are interested in either being in a small group or being a leader of a small group in Iowa City shoot me an email at dougcloven@gmail.com today.

First Love Is...Focused on our first love

2011-08-05T09:14:00.003-05:00

Our name comes from Revelation 2:4 where an angel is giving a report on a church that is doing good, maybe even great, things. However, there is more to being a church than doing great things we discover in verse four, ^"4But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first."

I know how simple this is to understand, and how difficult it is to do. Once we begin our ministries and things multiply, and opportunities to love appear, we do them! We SHOULD do them! But, there is a temptation to become more worried about our actions (ministries) than we are about our Savior (Jesus). As we see clearly in Luke 10:38-42 in the story of Mary and Martha. Mary chooses to sit at Jesus' feet while Martha does all the good hospitable duties. Mary, Jesus says, chose the "good portion".

When we become overly concerned about what we are doing (ministries), and the technique in which we do it. We have a tendency to become less like Jesus. Being guilty of doing good ministry but not loving the person who brought us there in the first place. We've put the cart before the horse.

First Love must be about loving and knowing the man Jesus. This is where we start, this is where we end.

First Love Is...A part of the community

2011-08-03T09:54:00.002-05:00

Something that I have noticed about my life as a person who works in a church is this: We, unintentionally, cut ourselves off from almost anyone that isn't a part of the church.

We work in the church, we worship in the church, we hang out with church friends. The easy mistake then, is to become sheltered. Not in the "Earmuffs! Tommy just said SUCKS!" way. But in the "How am I suppose to love people outside the church, when I don't know any?" way.

Therefore, First Love will require all staff and leadership to work (or volunteer) in the community, at least 5-10 hours a week. This could be as easy as reading books to kids at the library, taking a shift at a coffee shop, or selling vacuums part-time. I recognize the potential for burnout increases as you require "non-work related" time. But we will simply subtract 5-10 hours from the expected work week of our staff, putting our money where our mouth is. This will require more discipline and effectiveness of our time, but will (hopefully) allow strengthened relationships outside of the church.

God has not called us to start an exclusive club, but to be a presence in the world. It is hard to do that behind walls, in an office, and surrounded by Christians. What would it look like if we started loving our neighbors WITHOUT an agenda? Not so they will someday come to our church, but because they deserve to be loved and blessed, period.

I mentioned to my wife the other day that when someone cuts me off in traffic and they have a "Jesus fish" on their car, I get ENRAGED! Even I see Christians in the community, and believe they aren't a positive presence. But, when I'm cut off in traffic and that vehicle has an Iowa Hawkeye sticker, I think "GO HAWKS! They must be in a hurry." What if we became people that let our actions be the "Jesus fish"? Maybe then we wouldn't mind being on the same team.

First Love Is...A church without walls

2011-08-02T09:40:00.003-05:00

I was asked to talk more about the church plant I'm leading in Iowa City called First Love, so the next 10 posts will be about who we are. The pillars of our organism, and what this movement of God looks like.

We are a church without walls.

We know the cliche yet counter-cultural statement that one shouldn't go to church, but instead, BE the church. But though we know our identity is not tied up in the walls around our worship space, we spend millions on our facilities. It isn't unusual for a majority of church budget to be for buildings and upkeep of buildings (ie: janitors, roofs, furnaces, repairs, etc...). These buildings (typically) then sit empty 85% of the year, while taking up 30-70% of the tithed money given. Leaving a minority of money to be used on ministry.

So First Love will NOT have a building that serves primarily as a worship space. A majority of our resources will go to the needs of the community. Therefore we must partner or rent from other organizations and businesses to worship (ie: bars, schools, YMCA's, parks, etc...). This will (hopefully) help us change the identity of our church from "the one on ______ st." to "the one that does __________ for the community".

This will start out easy (because we have no building, nor money for a building), and become difficult as we have more resources and the temptation to give ourselves luxury, instead of giving the community essential needs grows. This is not condemning churches that have buildings, but asking "What if we didn't?"

Adventure is Out There

2011-08-02T09:28:00.003-05:00

I have less than two full weeks left of my amazing job. Then I'm off. So here are some reflections at the end of certainty and security (or maybe I should say the "illusion of certainty and security").

In some ways it is comforting to know I'm crazy enough to be obedient to what God is calling me to; and in some ways it is scary that, whatever He asks, I'll do. So I'm grateful for my mentors, and all my accountability. You have kept me challenging and asking the right questions.

The best news is I'm happy. I'm more than happy, I'm joyful! Failure for me is turning back, that's it. Moving forward is success.

What I learned in El Salvador: Part 1

2011-07-02T10:17:00.003-05:00

After a week in El Salvador with a company named ESNA Villages, I received a good dose of perspective. Perspective on what God is doing in my life. With my upcoming transitions of moving and finding a job while starting a church. I gained perspective that, things aren't that bad. I was never afraid I would starve to death, or that my family would be living on the street. But I was afraid that I would be isolated. That with all the excitement and confidence that I'm doing the right thing, in a year it would just be me.

In El Salvador a family invited our group to their home. They lived a mile-and-a-half from one of the schools we were building onto, and it wasn't an easy hike (especially after a heavy rain). After we made the single journey the children make multiple times a day, we were miserable. Shoes were ruined with mud, ankles swollen from bad footing, and morale was low. Then we saw the home. It was nothing more than a few logs holding up a roof system that consisted mostly of leaves. Every time it rained, the woman explained, everything they had would get soaked. It rained every day. There was no protection.
This family had no means of income except the two seasons a year that the father (who looked to be in his 60's) would work in the fields for next-to-nothing. The woman told us that when they had need, they leaned on their friends, and that is the only reason they were surviving.

I know that I have the same support systems this woman had, it just looks different. I have less need, more protection, and more resources, yet I seemed more anxious than she did. The reason became clear why she was so calm after we finished building her a new home that was shelter from the weather, and then gave her $90 of groceries and another $60 to use on whatever the family needed. It was in her face when she saw the groceries. It wasn't like someone who won the lottery, as I expected it to be. She didn't run around the house screaming. She lowered her head in humility and told us how blessed they were for us.

She believed that her family was not forgotten, nor alone, and that they were cared for. And when we gave her (maybe) a month's worth of provisions, she was proven right. I long to show more people that they are cared for, and am finding myself less concerned with my own "needs".

Funny "Musicians"

2011-06-17T16:26:00.003-05:00

One of the things I do before I write a sermon, or a blog post, and sometimes before I meet with a friend is search youtube for funny things.

Yesterday one of my friends asked if I get a newsletter for ridiculous musical videos because I'm always telling him to watch new ones I've found (some of my favorites: five octaves, 1337 long). But I don't have a secret source, I just love to laugh, so I hunt opportunities down.

I am motivated and inspired by funny youtube videos. But I'm also motivated by relationships. If I need to do something, I struggle. But when a friend needs me to do something, I am motivated. What motivates you?

I am Jack's Sense of Individuality

2011-06-16T09:30:00.002-05:00

I know we are supposed to let people in. In fact, if people didn't let me in, I'd be a much less effective minister. We must let others know what we are going through. Yet, I don't. At the church where I work, we pray weekly for each other. The staff shares every prayer request for our families, struggles, and others that we know that are healing or just got bad news.

But I usually sit there. I love praying for others but something keeps me from tipping my own hand. I've always had a problem explaining the littlest issues I have even when I trust the people I should be telling.

So, I'm working on it. I want to have deeper relationships. I want to admit I'm messed up. I want people to know me and not the persona that takes over too often. I want to live in a community of people that are dependent on each other not because of our emotional baggage, but because we are in healthy relationships.

Recently Read Books #4

2011-06-14T23:36:00.003-05:00

Switch is the second book I've loved reading from the Heath brothers. In it they discover how people make tough changes. Not just little ones, but big ones too. Like a country that needs to, all-together, change their tendencies to save an endangered species on the brink of extinction.

But more importantly they look at why change sticks. Why is one teacher able to switch the thinking of a class of third graders from in danger of falling a year behind, to graduating third grade by January and others can't get them to raise their hand before asking a question?

The answer is deep and yet simple...they make the switch. They change from one type of person to the other.

If that seems like it is too good to be true, it is. It isn't easy but it is that simple. If you want further coaching on how, go buy the book, or I can lend you my copy.

Things I Support #1

2011-06-14T16:46:00.004-05:00

I figured this is a necessary blog subject for someone like me so we'll try to keep it weekly. Not all of them will be kickstarter.com projects...but some will.

I found this video on youtube of people putting swings up all over LA and thought "That is someone who believes in something!" It made me ask "Why?" So I clicked on the link and watched THAT video. These people make swings because...they make people happy. I want to be like that!

Their next project is to make swings in Bolivia. I love it! Why Bolivia? Go read for yourself. OH!...and buy a swing for them to put up while you're there.

I Have a Weird Son

2011-06-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

My son, a couple days ago, said "I'm so weird." laughing and jumping out of the car.
To which I replied "Is that a good thing?"
He answered "Yes!"

I found myself in one of those head-tilted, shoulder-dropping smiles just looking at him with a joyful pride of who he is. I hope he never changes from being free from the prison of other people's negative expectations and assumptions.

"You're right, you are REALLY weird, never stop being weird." I said.
He looked at me, dropped his shoulders and groaned "SSSTTTOP IT!" Apparently I was making it weird.

Under Pressure

2011-06-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Question: What is formed under intense pressure?

Answer: Diamonds.

Alternate Answer: A squished grape.

I have the horrible gift of being deadline oriented (and a procrastinator). I usually don't start things that aren't due in the (almost) exact time it takes me to complete it to my satisfaction. Which has it's GLARING downsides I admit. But I've noticed that when I give myself deadlines, even if I know they are made purely to not let me procrastinate, I want to accomplish them.

Its my form of a list. You use a "To-Do list", I use a "Calendar". It's like a challenge that I want to accept. So instead of letting my tasks attack me on Monday morning, I set a deadline to have them done throughout the week.

It is not uncommon for me to say "Call me about that on Tuesday" What I'm doing is setting a deadline. I better know what I'm talking about by Tuesday, or I'm going to look dumb in that phone conversation. And vewola! I have accomplished something, that if I had written it down, I would have lost (or would have been washed off my hand).

Is it good that I'm like this...no. Do I work on it...yes. Do I still manipulate my life so that it works for me...you betch'ya stripped green pantaloons I do!

I am Jack's Complete Lack of Experience

2011-06-07T01:28:00.005-05:00

I've never really had to deal with death. I've known people that have died, but I have never had to deal with it. I've always been distant enough to not be affected. But then my Pastor/friend/mentor/teacher passed away.

I'm sad. But I'm not distraught, I know that Stan loved and gave and had a deep relationship with Jesus. I'm peaceful at times. Which makes me feel guilty for not being more upset. I don't want to talk about it with anyone, but then I find myself telling stories about him to people that have heard all the stories hundreds of times already.

I think about the people I talked to in Haiti for dealing with grief and think "THIS is what you were feeling?" I am so lucky I was (and still am) naive to the measure of loss they experienced. I can't imagine it.

At times, I think "This is probably normal to feel this way." after I disconnect in meetings or conversations. Then twenty minutes later I'm reading "Bossypants" by Tina Fey (great book btw, review incoming) and laughing along with how she can't understand how her dad can walk because, as she says: "I literally have his feet".

The good news is that Stan lived an amazing life. He inspired me. I hope when I die at the age of 127 (I want to break the record) I'll have a legacy a fraction of the size of Stan's.

Thankless Jobs

2011-06-01T08:13:00.002-05:00

I woke up this morning with a full head of ideas. Some about what I should be eating to get healthy, some about how to train my dog, and some about ways to love people.

Today my friend Jared is coming over at 9am. He thinks we are going to pray, talk and discuss theology. But instead we are going to drive to Moline where we are going to bring coffee to the staff of a place called "Youth Hope". It is a non-profit that has programing for kids that don't have safe things to do during the days (especially in the summer), or just need some positive adult interaction. I've been there several times, and the staff is typical of a program like this: under appreciated and overly amazing. They aren't under appreciated because the management is bad, but because working with underprivileged kids is just one of those jobs that doesn't (and probably couldn't) get the thanks it deserves.

It isn't unusual for their staff to go above and beyond daily to help out a family or to make sure a kid knows that they are cared for. When it is time to clock out...that's when you see them say things like "Yeah sure, I can help you with that."

So hopefully today Jared and I have a chance to brighten their days instead of feeling warm and fuzzy about the new Jesus books we're reading. If you're reading this you should to. Leave a comment with what you did for someone in a thankless job.

If I Could Do Anything Today...

2011-05-31T15:25:00.002-05:00

...I would watch a movie. One of my favorite things to do when I need to unwind or even disconnect for an hour (or just during my kids' nap time) is watch movies. I am not nearly as interested in an hour long drama, as I am in a movie. In a movie you get all the character development in one shot. The conclusion is (usually) complete and gives closure. The message is clear, and you get to live with another good story in your head.

I want to watch a movie today.

Recently Read Books #3

2011-05-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

I am the sort of guy that can be inspired by any random thing at any random time. But this book was made for me. It is the reason I restarted this blog. It is the reason I wrote the children's books. It is the reason I took a retreat. It is the reason I have been reading again. It reminded me of something I forgot:

Start new things, even if they might fail.

I guess when you start new things, and people mostly get frustrated by it. Or you don't follow through all the way, because life gets busy. You get this idea that you should stop trying. But the idea you should get instead is "keep going, and poke the box".

And then when no one is listening, or reading your blog, or buying your cd...keep doing it. But don't do it to beat a dead horse. Do it because it is worth doing, and you love it. Don't wait for Oprah to pick your book, just keep writing, keep submitting, and keep telling people about what you love.

Observing Life

2011-05-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

This post puts me two weeks ahead on my blog schedule. I'm never that far ahead on things. I think it is fun and easy for me because it plays to my strength of observing the stuff going on around me.

Then I realized that taking lessons from random things can seem really smug, with the wrong tone. If I believe my blog is helping you (the reader) "be a better you" then yeah that's a bit smug. But this blog is about me growing. I know I'm shellfish (auto-corrected to that, thought it was too funny to correct) but this helps me.

I struggle letting people in. And think too often that people want my opinion. So...welcome, this is my mind. I let you in but you have to listen to my thoughts. Ha!

Set Yourself Up

2011-05-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

A few days ago I wanted to do something cool for the school my son attends. It is on the lower end of the quad-cities economic system, so why not? My typical method however is to think about it, then come up with a couple ideas, then never think about it again (obviously not doing it).

But lately I've been trying this new "follow through" thing all the kids are talking about.

So I emailed the librarian asking if she would help me apply my idea to the next school year (when my son won't be there anymore). THEN I forgot about it.

But then I got a reply email. After the initial "oh crap, did I email her my idea? Why did I do that?!" moment, I got pumped that I have help, and that this will happen.

That was fun. How can I set myself up like that to avoid my classic blunders more often?

Support Something

2011-05-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

It is far too easy to find myself in a vacuum of Doug-ness (not as cool as it sounds) and thinking nothing of the world around me. So I have a new practice when it happens (daily): support something.

Something outside of benefiting me, or at least more beneficial to someone else. It could be family, friends, stranger on the street, or a kickstarter.com project. No rules, no excuses, just some form of encouragement. Who can we support today? I take suggestions. Let's crowd-source (look it up).

Recently Read Books #2

2011-05-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

Before I even read this, I knew it was going to be amazing. Purely from the amount of negative hype. Christian bookstores saying they wouldn't carry it, because of the universalism represented, and so on...

Then I read it.

Before you have an opportunity to form an opinion you are bombarded with questions that you MUST address. Questions that shake the things you've always believed. Not because you are wrong in every way, but because you HAVEN'T ASKED THE QUESTIONS. Timothy Keller says that asking hard questions about the gaps in your faith is like building up antibodies. If you refuse to ask and to be open to what you find, you are begging for a virus to take you over. For many young adults that huge episode results in in a complete disconnect from God, Jesus and especially, the church.

What I noticed most while reading this with friends and co-workers is that once these questions (and scriptural support for the questions) are presented people quickly realize that they are overly concerned with things that don't have the consequences we assumed they did. And what's better, is we are then awakened to the things we SHOULD HAVE been concerned with all along.

Even if you disagree with everything Rob Bell says in this book (which would be a surprise), you at least should ask these questions to challenge yourself and to grow. Because if you don't grow after asking these questions, you are either a zombie or Aristotle and we should HANG OUT either way!

Recently Read Books #1

2011-05-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a quick look at some of the books I've recently read:

Amazon.com Widgets

1. Sun Stand Still
Steven Furtick reminds us of the God we believe in. Not a God of weakness, but a God of power that is just as able to make the sun stand still in the sky today, as he did thousands of years ago for Joshua that asked for it. Believing isn't a way to manipulate God or to live a life without pain, it is a way for God's plan for the world to be realized, through Him.

2. A Million Miles in a Thousand Years
Following Donald Miller through his depression after a very successful book followed by a few not-so-successful ones. He learns through writing and even editing his own story about how to write a story people want to read. But more importantly, how to live a life people want to hear about. Ask the question "What kind of story are you living?".

3. Do Hard Things
This is a great book for students and even parents of high school students. It reminds us of the great people of our countries history, and how they rebelled against the idea that young people can't handle responsibility. It is a challenge for students to do hard things, because it is posturing you for the rest of your life's success.

4. It
At first I wasn't too interested in this book. It is about the churches and ministries you walk into and just feel....IT. You feel like you belong, you want to engage God, etc... But the reason I read this book was out of the fear of "What if we don't have IT?" "How do I get IT?" Though he admittedly doesn't even know what it is, he shows the things that are usually present when it is. And I'll give you a clue, it isn't cool visual displays, hip music, huge facilities and money.

5. The Reason For God
The most intellectual, non-arrogant, approach I've ever seen to the idea of God existing as the bible says He does. Timothy Keller (my new hero) weighs in on evolution, examines data from Richard Dawkins, and encourages the asking of tough questions that you may never find an answer to. If you are human, and have ever wondered if intelligent people can believe in God (I obviously am not the proof of this) read this book, and gain a bit of his perspective.

The Golden Violin

2011-05-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was watching my favorite TV show and they mentioned a golden violin. The most perfect violin, every thing about it was exactly how it should be, only better, because it was made of pure gold.

I try (hard) not to make big assumptions about people and churches I don't know. Or to paint in broad brush strokes about how everyone (but me) is wrong. So imagine a fictional church the First Golden Violin Church (FGVC). They have been blessed with the opportunity to make upgrades to everything they own and do. Everything FGVC owns is beautiful and perfect. Their pastor writes books, FGVC has a sanctuary the LA Lakers would be jealous of, worship leaders that were in the top three of American Idol, and the FGVC parking lot is so nice people want to get married in it. None of these things are evil or wrong in any way. Nor do I believe that these things should do anything but inspire people.

But, I believe as we replace old broken down instruments for those of gold the temptation grows to lose sight of our purpose. Like the golden violin that is perfected in gold but plays no music. Because there is a reason we don't make violins out of gold, it doesn't sound good! No matter how great things are going, or talented people are we can not miss the vision we are following, or trade it for the "American Dream" once that becomes an option. Lest we become an instrument that makes no music.

I Love Creation

2011-05-18T07:20:00.000-05:00

I LOVE creating things. I love writing, I love supporting people (like this guy) that create things that are amazing, I love creating ideas that will never benefit me. I love when people create.

It isn't a surprising concept, that when you create, you are giving life to people around you. Even if you think it isn't worth it. It is. Give people an opportunity to join in the creation by investing (even if it is only by cheering you on), investors love to reward creators. Create something today, tomorrow is too busy.

My Retreat

2011-05-17T07:09:00.002-05:00

I recently went on retreat for a few days, and met with a sort of spiritual guidance counselor. She was an 84 year-old retired nun. After an hour or so of talking she recommended to me that I get some rest while I'm there and to get rid of all my ideas of things I can accomplish because I'm away. She then gave me this bombshell:

"The world looks different to us, when we are tired."

She's right. Things look so appealing now where before they were dreary. I need to fight to keep this lifestyle of rest and peace alive.

Memorizing My Problems

2011-05-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

The other day my (almost) five year-old said something under his breath after I told him to stop complaining. I quickly pulled the dad face out and yelled "Excuse me?!" with the gusto my father would be proud of. He faced me and said it louder "Philippians 2:14!" I had to think for a moment because I was more prepared for reacting to something like "Flipping to-forging!" which is what I thought I heard. After a dazed second I laughed. He didn't. He stood there confused and a little frightened from my quick, almost medicated change of tone.

Philippians 2:14 "Do everything without complaining or arguing"

We all learned this at the breakfast table together, but I only seem to remember it when I am telling him not to argue. He remembers it when he needs improvement.

There is a subtle but enormous difference there. As a parent, teacher, pastor, mentor, or whatever, the temptation is to be so fixed on others that I develop huge blind spots in my own life. I need to memorize truth for me. I need to work on the plank in my eye. That makes me a more credible leader and father with integrity.

People are Mean in My Head

2011-05-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

People are harsher via text than they EVER would be in person. Its like the phone is a filter from the consequences of being mean. So people will say abrupt and boldly offensive things, and then fear the face-to-face resolution and isolate themselves.

I have a similar habit, I have conversations with friends in my head. I'm not crazy, I'm just a verbal processor, so I think by having conversation. So if I'm concerned with how to confront someone, I'll confront them in my head, and assume what they would say to solidify, or practice, my defense. The problem is I am extra bold and abrupt in my head, and so are the people I argue with in there. So I will find myself angry at them for things they didn't (and most times wouldn't) say!

It is a broken part of my life I admit. But don't we do the same thing when we form opinions of someone based on one thing one person says? I can't count the number of people I dislike because of something someone said about them. There are probably many people who dislike me because of something someone said about me.

So I am going to do something...that is not sounding fun right now. I'm going to find a person I have a negative opinion of (purely from gossip/hearsay) and take them out for lunch.

Being Sick is a Perfect Test

2011-05-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

This past Wednesday I was sick. I had the flu or something, I felt woozy and sore. The problem is that my whole week revolves around Wednesday. That's when we have jr. and sr. high services for our youth program. My job is to greet the students, hang out with them, listen to them, give them advice, teach them about Jesus, pray with them, lead them in worship, keep them safe, and give them an opportunity to do ministry. If I'm not there, what happens?

Wednesday was the perfect test on how I'm doing as a Youth Pastor. Everything that is encompassed in my job description (that I listed earlier) was done, and it was done well...without me there.

It was done well, because I'm not the one who does all those things for all those students. If I was, I could only do all that for maybe three of them, and then people would get lost. My Youth Staff did all that. They are good at what they do, whether it's walking around being security, listening and going to sporting events as a small group leader, or playing in the band. They are this ministry. And I am proud of what they have accomplished together, both in my absence and while I'm around.

The temptation I had to let go of before they could be so amazing, was control. My communication is still improving, but I trust them to take control of any situation at any time. Thanks friends.

This Weekend's Bucket List

2011-05-06T08:00:00.002-05:00

I often find that my weekend flies away without many memories made. Probably because I don't plan to make any. So this is a list of things I want to do with my family before this weekend kicks the bucket:

1. build a fort
2. go on a walk (all together)
3. ride bikes
4. get Slater to do something so silly that we get it on video and laugh over and over
5. make Liz a meal (for mother's day)
6. play ball with Jaxon
7. brush Winston and teach him a new trick
8. go to the Children's Museum or similar family outing
9. mow the natural prairie grass (aka my yard)
10. go to West Lake and fish, or have a picnic

If anyone has another good one, let me know.

Lego Batman Strategy

2011-05-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

My son and I have been playing a game together on the X-Box 360 called "Lego Batman" it is fun. You must notice little hints and solve the puzzles to progress to the next stage. Despite the difficult nature of the game, my 4 year-old has found a solution to every puzzle and beaten the game. Ready for his strategy? Here it is:

Go as far as you can until you MUST turn around and solve something.

When I play with him, I get stuck and want to figure out how to open the door. But he helps me realize we don't have to open EVERY door to advance to the next stage. In fact he gets frustrated with me when I stop to think about deviating from his plan that hasn't failed yet.

Just because there is a door there, doesn't mean you HAVE to open it. Sometimes exploring, analyzing and attempting EVERY strategy is a hindrance from the ONE you knew would work all along.

What are You Afraid of?

2011-05-04T08:00:00.003-05:00

As I was leaving the office on my bicycle someone yelled "it's all downhill". To which I responded "That's the scariest part!"
There are two things that scare me when thinking of new ideas, new ministries, or new ways to experience God: "What if I fail?" and "What if I succeed?"

#1 What if I fail
Ultimately, I will fail. If I am creating and not letting all the reasons not to create stop me, then I will fail...sometimes. Some of the people I respect the most failed hundreds or thousands of times before it worked. Pastors, comedians, writers, teachers, mentors, business owners, musicians, etc... But they never stopped trying. If you start, you may fail before you succeed, but when you don't start, you will never succeed.

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." Wayne Gretzky - Michael Scott

#2 What if I succeed
Then you get the pressure of sustaining, and continuing it all. If a church grows in numbers that's great. But that means more eyes and ears that will notice when you mess up. And what if those numbers go away? Then you failed, because you kept trying new things "You shouldn't have changed things" people will say. I've seen churches grow in numbers and then feel handcuffed by those numbers. God will lead them somewhere that may not be accepted by their new masses so they won't follow.

"I can't give you a sure-fire formula for success, but I can give you a formula for failure: try to please everybody all the time." - Herbert Bayard Swope

These are both scary things. But what if you stop being concerned about failure and accept it as what sometimes happens if you try new things, instead of getting stuck in the old things? What if you created a culture that valued experimenting for the sake of growing? Not growing in numbers but in relationships, and in reviving the world.

Hovering

2011-05-03T14:45:00.001-05:00

Have you ever been filling up a couple of drinks at a fast food restaurant and had someone hovering behind you? How do you feel? Rushed? Do you feel like they are angry with you for wanting to fill more than one drink?
I've felt this way in ministry. Like the person that is helping me, is really waiting for me to be done, so they can take over and do it their way. It is an unsettling feeling to have someone hovering behind you.
Instead of hovering we should be preparing, and doing work. I always feel relieved when the person is getting their cup top ready and opening their straw and grabbing napkins while I finish. It puts me at ease to know they aren't angry with me, and makes me want to hurry so they can get their drink faster.

The Purpose of Worship?

2011-05-03T08:02:00.002-05:00

I've been asking myself questions about the traditions I enjoy. Not to be different for the sake of being different, but to identify my golden calves. So I asked the question "Why do we have worship services, and why do we have these elements in them?"
I do not think that worship services are bad, nor are they an idol. Unless we won't ask questions. How much of what we do is a convenience thing, instead of a God thing? How much of it is what makes us feel good, instead of what we should do?
I've heard pastors say "Yes, we should pray more, but people don't want to pray." Is that acceptable? Or is it just the reality of church?

Not Shipping

2011-05-03T07:41:00.003-05:00

I've been quiet since 2009 on this blog. I wouldn't say I've done nothing, but I've shipped nothing. I've put nothing out there for you to see, to think about, to wrestle with, or even to giggle at. So I'm restarting with a focused goal, and motivation.
I hope you appreciate my thoughts and findings.

So you want to be my Facebook friend?

2009-12-01T09:37:00.004-06:00

Is it really worth it? Well click here to fill out the survey and find out.
PEACE
Doug

Tis the Season

2009-11-30T11:43:00.002-06:00

This is our first ever CYBER MONDAY SALE! We figured since everyone is going crazy buying Christmas presents that you should look GOOD while you shop.

OH YEAH! And if you want to be remembered as the person that gave the most amazing shirts from Engedi Apparel, you can do that too (Although I'd rather be remembered as the guy that gave the coal...it's ironic!). Have a great CYBER MONDAY (2-day) SALE! And don't forget to brush your teeth.

PEACE
Doug

Forgot the best one

2009-05-26T09:35:00.002-05:00

OOOPS! Here is the video of me on the farm.
PEACE
Doug

late video updates

2009-05-26T09:08:00.003-05:00

Sorry for these taking so long to get to you, enjoy.
PEACE
Doug

Who knew Foxes were so cool?

2009-05-07T16:01:00.001-05:00

It's my birthday

2009-05-01T11:48:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who has humored me the last 25 years! I love you all.
On a different note, I just saw this thing Disney is doing and it made me smile so I thought I'd share with you all.
PEACE
Doug

Adding more tech to my heck

2009-04-29T11:25:00.004-05:00

I may be busy, but I'm not too busy that I can't add a bunch of fun new features to my life and ministries. If you don't follow me on twitter, do it now HERE. But recently the church has joined the web-earth HERE. (Man I just typed web-earth as an internet synonym and I really like that term...I'm adopting it as my new favorite word/hyphened word.) It is great for getting text alerts about time sensitive announcements and updates. So I just started a Pine Street High twitter so that all my youth can get text updates on what is going on with us. Maybe now they will actually remember to bring permission slips and to SHOW UP.
I'll let you know if its a roaring success or not.
PEACE
Doug

My static

2009-04-21T09:52:00.002-05:00

Do you ever get those moments where you feel overwhelmed and then you start to see the physical factors playing into it? As I was sitting at my desk panicking through three email accounts trying to find a receipt/invoice for my 2 month late credit card report I stumbled across an email from a friend that was sent weeks ago. So I read it and it gave me a huge sense of peace. Peace about things in my life both connected to my friend, and with things completely unrelated. That was when I noticed I hadn't connected with God yet today because of my busyness. Then for the first time all morning I noticed my big nasty speaker was putting out a very loud static noise that I hadn't even noticed until I calmed down and took a breathe. When I shut off the speaker there were still other noises, but they were much softer and I immediately felt more relieved.

It made me think of this video I saw a few weeks back. How quickly we can get distracted and then accept that as the only option, we forget what life is like with no static.
PEACE
Doug

Videos from 4-19-09

2009-04-20T11:06:00.001-05:00

Leading Through Your Struggles

2009-04-20T10:39:00.002-05:00

One day a boy walked up to his mother and asked "May I go play in the middle of the street?"
Stinging with guilt, the mother replied "Yes, I suppose you may."
A friend of the mother's standing nearby overheard this and came over quickly to find out why the mother would allow such a foolish act. "Why on earth would you let your son to do something so dangerous?" She asked.
"Because," the mother said with her head hanging low "when I was a child I was hit by a car while playing in the middle of the street, and I can't bear to be a hypocrite to my son."
Luckily most of us would see the obvious solution with this dilemma: Teach your child to avoid the painful consequences of mistakes you've made.
But what happens when the child can point out where you have recently made mistakes similar to theirs?
Welcome to ministry! I found myself in a similar situation with the youth ministry recently after having a heated debate about the necessity of a sabbath day. A day that you have prepared to be off, not leaving things unfinished, but by finishing chores and work early to allow a day of rest. Something I have been skipping recently to finish all the little things that I didn't get to during the work week. So what do we do when we, as parents, leaders, or mentors are struggling with the very thing we are trying to teach into others?
Here are three steps that will help you go from "Do as I say not as I do" into a shining example of integrity (hopefully):
1. Be Honest
Allowing everyone to believe you have it the issue conquered and telling people you have it conquered are both lies. Be honest about your struggles this gives you power and trust. Being honest also allows you to share the reality of the consequences through your own stories. I love it when pastors share how they've struggled in the area they're preaching on, it reveals their passion.
2. Explain the Plan Your Taking
Don't walk up and say "I don't have this one figured out yet but you should when I'm done talking to you about it." Something that builds integrity in this situation is having it well thought through with a clear plan of action to attack the thing you're dealing with. Share and explain your steps to find restoration.
3. Focus on Your Goal
I love the question "what would it look like if...?" Point out the obvious positive changes that would come from following through. Don't focus on the negative, most likely anyone going through a tough situation has seen the negative and is looking for the escape plan into God's will.
I hope this helps you, but if nothing else it was a good reminder for me.
PEACE
Doug

videos for Easter

2009-04-14T11:03:00.003-05:00

These are the videos I put together for this Easter service. The first is the announcements for Easter. There weren't many announcements so I felt it was boring, but people seemed to think it was hilarious so...there you go.
The second is the promo for our new sermon series called 3 days. Check it.
PEACE
Doug

Easter was goo...

2009-04-14T09:54:00.002-05:00

d.
Jaxon is finally old enough to appreciate the cool parts of Easter (except the COOLEST part [Jesus]). So we dyed Easter eggs, hunted for them and even watched a squirrel find a couple and eat/stash the candy (pictures to come). All-in-all it was a great weekend. The service was AWESOME and I just felt like God is doing such amazing things that it knocked me down from my own issues long enough to worship in an amazing way. Now if I can keep that attitude through a rough work week I'll be doing well. Pray for me.
(This picture is right before we dyed our eggs, Jaxon decided we should pray before we did...it was a nice suggestion)
PEACE
Doug

2009-04-08T10:18:00.001-05:00

This is catchy, and terrifying after that lady who's face got torn off. Maybe we shouldn't give Chimps technology...just a thought.
PEACE
Doug

Who I'm listening to lately...

2009-04-01T14:36:00.002-05:00

This is the list, finally some new bands at the top!

PEACE
Doug

I am now a better speaker

2009-03-31T09:33:00.004-05:00

Have you ever noticed that you can hear an urban legend only one time and then days later recite it to someone else, but you can hear important instructions for work 22 times and still forget them? If you answered yes to that question then you need to read this book.
Made to Stick by Dan and Chip Heath is a must read for anyone that communicates important lessons on a regular basis. The overall point is that there are certain approaches that make ideas "sticky" meaning they are more likely to stick in someone's mind after hearing them only one time. Made to Stick very thoroughly goes over the attributes that make an idea sticky and give several examples throughout the book to make you say "wow that is the same information I've heard before but now I'll never forget it."
Any teacher, manager, coach, or even parent would benefit from reading this book and putting its principles to use while trying to communicate anything that is worthy of being remembered.

PEACE
Doug
PS: the other books are either next on my list or recently finished that I really liked and am recommending.

Gamerz Arena Commercial

2009-03-30T11:27:00.001-05:00

This is a commercial I made for a buddy of mine. If you live in the Davenport area and haven't checked this place out, you are crazy. GET THERE. And add some time on my account (toneblind) while you're at it because I want to game with you.
PEACE
Doug

Mutemath announcements

2009-03-30T10:07:00.002-05:00

youtube made me change the music from the Mutemath song I originally had with it.
PEACE
Doug

It is video day!

2009-03-19T08:54:00.002-05:00

In more than one way it is video day today. I try to post funny videos from the internet, I publish the latest PSH video on the PSH website AND I make our weekend announcement video. Busy but fun and inspiring day. Reed had an awesome idea to make my stop-motion video with legos, I'm loving that idea. So after coffee with Pastor Mike I'm gonna go buy some legos and have a blast writing a script then making a dorky video.
So here's your old favorite The Shining trailer re-cut to be a feel good movie:

PEACE
Doug

I need God...when I'm in trouble...

2009-03-16T09:30:00.002-05:00

I ran across this statement at soulpancake.com: We only need God when life smacks us in the face. And I see 100% where it is coming from. Everyone has been guilty of this pitfall at some point in their lives. But what does that mean for the rest of the time? If I am willing to admit that I don't have it all figured out when everything is falling apart, but not when things are going my way. What statement does that make? "I believe that God is out there but I only want the burden of His love when I can't do it myself."?
Its like treating a parent like a waste of your time. Only communicating on birthdays and mother's/father's day, and avoiding them like the plague every other day of the year. CS Lewis said that pain is God's megaphone. A way for him to bring attention to things that need to be dealt with. But how much more meaningful could that be if we didn't wait for the "check engine light" to come on before we started doing maintenance.
Give God the time today don't wait for Him to get your attention tomorrow. If you start today its a much shorter climb, than when you're at rock bottom.
PEACE
Doug

Monk-moments...

2009-03-12T16:44:00.003-05:00

I took this picture the other day, after unconsciously doing this to my Pizza Rolls. The thing that scares me is that I don't remember doing it, so I wonder how many weird quirks I have like this one, that are going unnoticed (by me).
PEACE
Doug

Sorry for the slower updating...

2009-03-12T16:06:00.002-05:00

I've had to stay home with Jax for a couple days this week, which has done a real number on my work schedule and more importantly my blogging schedule! One of the things you notice quickly about two-year-olds is that they are incredibly selfish and small. I will never forgive him for either.
Here is a funny clip of Ricky Gervais (creator of the office) having outtakes with Elmo.
PEACE
Doug

2009-03-09T10:16:00.001-05:00

Here is this weekend's announcement video. The idea came from Brian Jennings' average day. Thanks for putting up with how long it is!
PEACE
Doug

Soul Pancake

2009-03-09T09:47:00.002-05:00

I just stumbled across a super new website that I think you will all like quite a bit. It is called Soul Pancake and the objective is to talk about spirituality in a non-lame manner...which I appreciate. I've spent the last 15 minutes going through the site and I am loving what I see. It is seems that the most people so far have genuinely wanted to explore the questions that were posed and not just shoot down what they don't understand or believe. That is rare and I love it. So everyone needs to go sign up and start answering questions and asking questions and accepting challenges. You can follow them on twitter as well as Rainn Wilson who is one of the creators/spokesperson. Good pancaking to you!
PEACE
Doug

One of those nights

2009-03-05T12:06:00.002-06:00

Last night was another great Pine Street High night with some exceptionally unusual tangents. I'll list the ones I can remember for you, but I'm sure there are more I can't remember.
-Throwing a tennis ball at Jaxon
-Poop cramps/contractions
-Fire/Pain pit
-Annoying little brothers
-Folding your hands and practicing self-control
-Blood traveling south, away from the brain
-God's natural retractions
That's all I can think of I'm sure there were more, I'll post them if I think of them.
I just finished planning out my video for this weekend, it should be funny. I'm using the day in the life of Brian Jennings' short as the template...should be funny.
PEACE
Doug

This week's top artists

2009-03-04T10:45:00.003-06:00

After Reed turned me on to Last.FM I've been listening to it non-stop at work. It is nice because most of the bands I tend to like are new and tend to be less known which is fun. I love finding new artists that I already like because it has a sound I appreciate. So here is this week's top artists:

I know I need to lay off The Rocket Summer and move out but so many good bands come from that station! I'm going to try listening to a new station next week. I'll let you know how it goes.
PEACE
Doug

Twitter is fun...try it

2009-03-04T09:10:00.003-06:00

This week I've been trying to find new and exciting people to follow on twitter. If you are new to the twitter phenomon then all you need to know is that it is a micro-blog inwhich you are only allowed 140 characters (the same as a text message). What I've discovered is that there are several different categories of people to follow on twitter. So, I wanted to let you know about some of them so that you can see why twitter is so great. Then I'll post a little how-to so that you can join and feel up-to-speed.
PROMO CELEBRITIES
These are people that twitter only to promote themselves. You may not get to know them much through their tweets (twitter posts) but if you are interested in what they are doing then it is still very interesting for you.
Some of the promo-types that I follow are: William Shatner, JJ Abrams and Steve Jobs.
INTERESTING CELEBRITIES
These are the people that you know from their general celebrity but on twitter they share their day with you. Instead of talking about their "new CD" they tell you about what they did today, which lets you into their lives, just a bit, and helps us relate to them.
Of these I follow: Lance Armstrong, Rainn Wilson and MC Hammer.
FAKE CHARACTERS
Then I've also started following people that aren't who they claim to be but are still really funny and embody the personality of celebrities.
I follow: Fake Tina Fey, Fake Steven Colbert, Darth Vader and Fake John Stamos.
LEADERS OF YOUR FIELD
This is one of the reasons twitter has exploded like it has. It is the #1 fastest news source in the world because of its text message restrictions and capabilities. So what better way to stay intouch with the best of the best for what you do? I follow leaders in the Youth Ministry field because I like to know how they structure their days, and how they accomplish as much as they do while not losing their minds with stress.
Some of these people I follow are: Doug Fields, Kurt Johnston, and Josh Griffin.
REAL LIFE FRIENDS
Unfortunately there aren't a lot of my friends and family that twitter which is a shame. For a week or so my sister did and it was great getting updates on what was going on in her life. Many of my friends simply don't know or see the point in twitter but they do other things that are very similar but more specific like changing their facebook status. You can actually link that up to twitter and every time you twitter, it will update your facebook status automatically, killing two large network birds with one stone.
Here are some of my friends and family that I follow on twitter: Haley Cloven, Reedizzle, and Paige Popejoy.
If you haven't already gotten a feel for it I will give you all some pointers in the next couple of days but until then I just encourage you to signup and give it a try. And be sure to tell me!
PEACE
Doug

March 1st video from this weekend

2009-03-02T09:04:00.003-06:00

Not super funny, but I'm just starting to experiment with time lapse and it gave me some cool ideas. So, hopefully I it leads to cooler ideas.
PEACE
Doug

Another old favorite for you all

2009-02-26T11:29:00.002-06:00

This is a little boy after a visit to the dentist. He is obviously a little high from the drugs they gave him and is not sure how to handle it. Don't worry it doesn't get sick or anything, its just a good reminder of why drugs are bad and why we don't want our kids to mess with them (as long as we've already gotten a good youtube video out of them).
PEACE
Doug

Last night's tangents

2009-02-26T11:12:00.002-06:00

Last night had some interesting twists and turns. I talked about sex (which is always exciting) and I had my usual tangent times and thought I'd share a few of the topics with you:

Chainsaws
Jump Kicks
Lighting Hair on Fire
Baywatch Acting
Bologna
Emril Lagasse
One Way Streets

PEACE
Doug

Awesome (out of season) flash game for you all

2009-02-25T14:54:00.001-06:00

I don't know why this is so much fun, but it is. Give it a shot, and tell me your score. I got 23,700 my first time...tough but fun game!
PEACE
Doug

If I were a baby metaphor...

2009-02-24T10:15:00.004-06:00

Anyone who knows me would agree that I am a bit unorganized which really explains why I am so phase oriented. I go through phases like House goes through Vicodin. That is hard for most people to understand, until this baby was filmed in time-lapse playing with all his toys. Now everyone can look into what my life is like. I am a little kid on the floor surrounded by toys and I just move from one to the next like a Slum Dog Millionaire going through Oscars (that's my last pop-culture reference I swear).
PEACE
Doug
PS:If you haven't already, leave a comment with your first name and email address to be entered in a drawing for the new Engedi shirt!

Last week's poll results

2009-02-23T09:58:00.003-06:00

Apparently no one likes Mexico. But 40% of you would prefer a cabin in the woods. I'll assume it is because you like to be left alone and you wouldn't have to travel as much, instead of thinking that you are uni-bomber'ish. Another 40% of you would like to go to see the islands where Lost is filmed in Hawaii. 20% want to risk being tossed overboard on a cruise to a warm location, where no one would risk it for a cold one...interesting.
I'm sure the fact that I'm bad at assuming things is apparent by now, so have a great day!
PEACE
Doug
PS: I got a hair cut.

an old favorite for viral thursday

2009-02-19T11:06:00.003-06:00

I just can't help but watch this about once a week. You must watch with your volume up. Why can't I come up with stuff like this?
PEACE
Doug

I have a new music site...

2009-02-18T09:24:00.003-06:00

I decided to go ahead and check out Last.fm, a streaming music website, and see how it works, so I'm sharing what I like and what I don't like so far with you all. I am an avid Pandora listener so I wasn't looking for a replacement, but I was looking for a better way to show what I'm listening to with people that are reading my blog. And as I saw from Reed's Blog Last.fm has what I was looking for. So I signed up and was immediately confused on how to listen to music, I clicked on a couple of bands that were on the first page I saw and got a ring-tone length preview followed by the stop button. Frustrated and little embarrassed that I had to do that four times before I realized I was supposed to click on the "stations" portion, I moved on to the intended starting place. I've really enjoyed it.
Besides the widget (below) I like that you can download a player that isn't in the browser, and you can change your settings so that when you click on media from their site it sends it to your player. This allows me to fly through the site without having shfifty-five tabs open to have continuous music and no overlap.
Good site, not as easy as Pandora, but more to offer in my opinion. I'll be switching bookmarks today. I encourage you all to join up and add me as your friend.

PEACE
Doug

What should have been...

2009-02-17T09:37:00.003-06:00

This is the video that I spent time on and then couldn't be shown because our DVD player broke. So I'm going to edit it with this weeks announcements and no one will be the wiser...except anyone who watches it here I guess. Totally taken from SNL Digital Shorts.
PEACE
Doug

I am Jack's broken ego

2009-02-17T09:16:00.002-06:00

I have to make a statement. I struggled to put this on the Internet because of the increased traffic, and therefore, accountability (or backlash depending on how you look at it). But I have always been pro-PC because I could take them apart and sometimes put them back together. I could change things that and add functions that I wanted. I could do everything I wanted to do and they were reasonably priced. And then I was allowed to have a big nasty Mac Pro to use at work for video editing and general work. I love it. I can do things that I thought were really difficult with ease in new areas. And though I've only just scratched the surface I think I'll be increasing my productivity further the more I play with it.
So, I apologize for all the harsh things I've said to people with those white apple bumper stickers on their cars. I apologize for suggesting that my friends that bought Macs drank "the Kool-Aid". I am done arguing the case of the PC for the sake of not buying a Mac.
As of right now my biggest issue is my having to jump back and forth at work and home for things that aren't cross compatible. That is annoying but I'm getting through it.
I'll understand if many of you see me as a traitor now...I probably would have done the same before I was enlightened.
PEACE
Doug
PS: I still hate those commercials...they are dumb.

I AM Romantic! sometimes...

2009-02-16T09:25:00.009-06:00

Like all of you, I've grown tired of my blog's feel, and decided it is time for a change. Since I'm so late on the posting side, its only right that I'm really late on the design side.
In other news, Liz and I were fighting most of Valentine's Day. Which I thought was slightly humorous until Traci reminded us that we fought last Valentine's Day as well (granted last year was purely coincidence). So I thought maybe I'll list a short list of the most romantic things I've ever done for her. That way, I'm called back to accountability in giving her those great experiences that she wants and loves. And even though she truly believes I've "...never done anything romantic in my life" that she remembers...I have.

3. The Getaway Gift
Since Liz lives more than a hop skip and a tumble (she's clumsy) away from her parents, it is easy for her to feel homesick for them. So for Christmas I gave her the 12 gifts of Christmas each with a theme of her going to on a "mini-vaca" to go shopping at Jordan Creek in Des Moines with her mom. Although some of them had nothing to do with the theme at all. The gifts were as follows:
12-a twelve month subscription to Wonder Time magazine
For moms to get ideas on things to do with their kids when home with them. This was to encourage Liz in pursuing a job that would put her home with Jaxon (and others) during the day.
11-drinks from Sonic
We both love Cherry-Limeades and this is a good drink to grab coming home from a long hard day at work, or on your way out to the Des Moines area.
10-ten $10 bills
For shopping!
9-nine packs of gum
Because she is a gum freak, I should call her Violet Beauregarde.
8-chocolates
Not just any chocolates, GOURMET! After opening the box I realized there were only 6...it crushed me, but Liz didn't seem to care.
7-seven sticks of chapstick
Who knew chapstick was so flipping expensive!? I almost killed this gift after purchasing these and realizing I needed to get another job to pay for it. So I just got a job shoveling snow.
6-six super fuzzy, pink, thermal socks
She really likes warm socks...I don't know why but she loved them.
5-gain five pounds!
This consisted of a PF Chang's gift card for Liz and her mom to go eat.
4-a four pack of some beverages
Liz and her mom both love it so they could drink it when they were together.
3-three boxes of her favorite candies
I can't even remember what they were now, but they were for the car ride to Des Moines.
2-a pair of the tiniest diamond earrings ever made
They were so small she lost one or both of them, not long after she got them. They probably fell throw the hole in her ear, I still laugh when I think of how tiny they were, but she loved them while she had them.
1-I can't remember...LOL

2. The Proposal
It was Christmas and we were at my parent's house celebrating, and I asked Liz to take a walk with me around the block. There were a few houses around the area that had fantastic light displays and it wasn't too cold so we'd have fun. She agreed and we started walking. When I got to the furthest point from my parent's house I pulled a ring box from my pocket and gave it to her. She just looked up at me and back to the box several times then opened it. Inside she found a piece of paper that had been folded multiple times. Her smile faded. She unfolded the paper to see a picture of a TV. Then I told her how I got her a TV to replace her tiny one, since she'd be moving out on her own soon. She was not amused, and spent the next few minutes venting about how she thought I was going to propose and that I was a jerk. I apologized and was embarrassed that a gift could back fire so heavily.
All of a sudden it started to snow a very light powder just as we were passing under a flickering street light. It was like something out of a movie so I asked her to stop and wait for me to tie my shoe. Then I pulled another ring box out of my coat and asked her to be my wife. She never actually said "Yes" she just kept repeating "Are you serious!?" I guess I deserved that. But she'll never forget that night.

1. The Lucky Charms (LCs)
This one I totally forgot about until not too long ago, when I saw an old LCs box sitting in our basement and I asked Liz why we were keeping it. Her face lit up and she reminded me of #1 on our list.
Liz told me once when we had first started dating that she loved the marshmallows in LCs. So I went out and bought 4 boxes of LCs, poured them all in to a huge bowl and started picking out the marshmallows and putting them into one of the empty LCs bags. Once I had a full bag, i used a hot curling iron to reseal the bag and put it into one of the empty boxes and used a hot-glue gun to reseal the box. Then I gave it to her. She was speechless, but I don't think she ever finished a whole bowl of it, because there is a reason LCs don't come with just the marshmallows...it is disgusting and you get sick.

PEACE
Doug

announcement videos

2009-02-12T16:27:00.000-06:00

PEACE
Doug

I'm Bach!

2009-02-12T11:02:00.002-06:00

I know I've been gone for a long while and both of my readers have been very disappointed, but I'm back (I love finding poorly photoshopped pictures on google, see left). Hopefully I'll be more attentive to my blogging in the coming months. I'm going to give everyone another chance to enter my 300th blog contest. I'm going to change it to the 310th blog contest.
So if you want to win our newest shirt (Noah's Ark) before it goes on sale, simply leave a comment on any of my posts with your first name and email address and you're entered to win. If you've already entered, you don't have to enter again.
Other than that, not a whole lot going on, but I've decided I'm going to start posting my annoying announcement videos I do at church on here weekly. So that will be fun. I know people realize I'm a geek, but just in case you wanted further evidence. I'll start posting those soon.
PEACE
Doug

Things the youth pastor should do around the church Post # 299

2008-12-02T15:16:00.006-06:00

After I hit the "PUBLISH POST" button and reread my thoughts I felt bad for seemingly bringing down the mood of the Internet. I am constantly trying to do the opposite by posting silly videos and pictures (see past posts). I practically whip out my balloons and magic tricks from when I was a clown in high school (yes it's true) or whatever it takes to bring smiles to your faces. So I humbly submit this post to the midnight society as a Prozac for your interweb spirit. I call it "Things the youth pastor should do around the church"
The staff went out for lunch today, and during consumption of Reuben flavor slice of pizza that I had accidentally applied the taco sauce to, someone asked if I could shovel the sidewalks of the church. For the next 12 seconds I was thinking of what all the appropriate humble responses were, I especially lingered on the ones that had a back-handed burn attached to them. But then they mentioned you get paid each time you shovel, to which I immediately responded "Yes I'll do it!" After giggling to myself with glee that I could make some extra money to buy Liz a fun Christmas present without her knowing how much I paid for it and where 17 seconds after I bought it (thank you online banking); I thought wait haven't I fought my whole (three year) career to get the youth pastor position away from the automatic "well nobody else will do it" guy? Well the answer is both yes and no, let me explain.

Yes

Because a youth pastor doesn't just mean you are automatically the young naive person on staff that will do anything the big mean senior pastor tells you "you should be doing".
Because teaching and discipling the youth is an important job, and you can do it full-time (you don't need help hitting 40 hours per week)
Because being a youth pastor doesn't mean you hope to someday pass the Jedi trials and become a "REAL" pastor.

Because they are willing to pay me to do it!

So this post is to celebrate that I am appreciated and that I'm not required to do things outside of my ministry description because I get to "wear jeans, and look like a hooligan all the time". But because I recognize my situation is not "the norm" here is a list of things that youth pastors are typically asked or required to do:

Rock Star Pastor
This is the youth pastor that is also required to lead 3 bands comprised of "preferably youth" but typically middle-aged women who all want to sing and have their own microphones (and have been told they could by the senior pastor before the youth pastor was hired), creating a women's A Capella group to lead the youth and a couple "contemporary" services. The senior pastor will call the youth pastor into his office about six months in and ask why his daughter isn't allowed to play guitar even though she hasn't ever been to the youth group and just got her very first guitar last week.

Custodian Pastor
This is the youth pastor that is also given the job of cleaning up the church. This is mostly to help him hit his hours, since all he has to do is "hang out with the kids once a week on a Wednesday night and pray between dodge ball matches". The Staff Perish Committee was concerned he would feel guilty collecting his pay check if he didn't have some "REAL" work to do during the week.

Florence Nightingale Pastor
This is the youth pastor that "SHARES" the hospital visits with the senior pastor because those in the hospital "love to see young people in person". Apparently these senior pastors didn't get the memo that adults scare youth pastors, that's why we stick to youth. Like when the seniors graduate high school we start ministering to their little brothers and sisters so they don't realize how little we actually know by asking us questions! Yes this type is the most feared position by youth pastors around the globe.

I wish I were exaggerating but unfortunately I know I'm not. I have friends that just want to lead worship as a career and they get tons of offers but they only come along with a youth pastor position, sometimes you get the ultimate youth pastor/worship leader/custodian position, how would you...I don't even know how that makes its way to an application title.
Well I hope this post was more fun for you all. I know it made me LOL out loud.
PEACE
Doug

Don't Panic robble robble Post #298

2008-12-02T09:47:00.003-06:00

I just read a report that was shedding light on the ethics that is thought of as acceptable in our current youth culture and I'm a little concerned. I won't say that it totally surprised me because I've run into these issues but I was hoping I found a small pocket that was the exception, not the rule. Breitbart.com found that our youth are liars, cheaters and thieves. After reading a title similar to that of the previous sentence I pictured the Hamburglar (left). Not because high school students yell gibberish or like to ripoff major food chains, but because they are convinced it is a laughable matter, and that if they get caught the consequences are minimal.
In our small groups teenagers were given a "would you rather" question that apparently seemed harmless enough to them that they answered very honestly. The question was "Would you rather cheat on a test and receive an A or not cheat and get a D?" and the response was an overwhelming A. When students were asked why? They justified by saying that it is only one time and you just need to study harder next time so you don't have to cheat. But that a D is something you can't do anything about. So what the majority believed was that it is better to look good falsely and immorally, rather than not looking good and having integrity.
This study seemed to back up what our small groups were saying. 64% of teens said they have cheated on a test in school, and 38% said they've done it two or more times. I'm sure schools are just as tough as they have been in the past at punishing students for cheating, which makes me ask "what has changed?" Are the methods getting better so they aren't getting caught as frequently? Are we instilling morals that say "if you aren't prepared cheat until you are"?
I think that it is just not being focused on enough. Those of our students that said they'd rather cheat than get a D they were quick to defend their position but after some simple questions they started to realize the moral dilemma and seemed to understand that it was a big deal and something that is unacceptable.
Overall I think it is becoming easier to cheat, with phones that have google as a homepage and free texting to the person sitting across the room that is taking the same test as you. And with the increase in opportunity, there has not been an increase in attention and conversation from the church or other authorities. I know I've never given a sermon on it.
So this January we are going to be hitting on the topic of cheating which is obviously way past due for me, but I'm sure will be fun and informational. We'll touch on all sides of it and ask why we do it and why we shouldn't do it. I think what we will really focus on is the last statistic that grabbed my attention, 93% of the teens that took this survey felt satisfaction in their own character and ethics, and 77% said "when it comes to doing what is right I'm better than most people I know." Interesting.
Even with all this said I have no fears in this generation. I get to be around youth all the time and even with all these and other issues they suffer through every day I am continually encouraged by there authenticity and ability to be open. As a Christian I believe that is a crucial attribute that through Christ can eventually eliminate these issues. Most of the students I know, can take correction, and want to be like Jesus. They just need to think through all sides of the conversation.
So what do you think? Leave a comment.

Here are some more of the statistics from the report in case you were interested:

83% of teens admitted to lying to their parents about something significant.
30% admit to stealing something from a store in the last year.
26% of the students surveyed admitted to lying on at least one or two of the questions asked.

PEACE
Doug

Pop-Culture Post # 297

2008-12-01T10:32:00.004-06:00

So far no one has entered the contest, and there are only three posts until I announce a winner. That's cool, I'm not hurt or mad...just disappointed.
Anyway, here are 10 random thoughts on random pop-cultural things:

Gas was so low that we drove the truck around the state for Thanksgiving even though it only gets 17 mpg, I felt almost snobby for doing it but it does have cruise control.
I didn't buy anything on Black Friday.
I really want "The Dark Knight" for Christmas, but don't know if I can hold off from buying it that long.
My friend let me borrow "Extras" seasons one and two. Ridiculously funny in the dry humor department, but it is a bit vulgar.
It could be the commercials or that my friends are doing it but World Of Warcraft is looking like a lot of fun.
Just started Lost season 4. What is going on!?
If I read one of the books I want to read each week it would only take me six months to be caught up on my reading list.
Saving $20 on an Xbox 360 isn't that huge of a deal.
Nintendo's Wii-mote is unleashing new possibilities all over the place. Here is one of the applications. (notice the Wii-mote on top of the TV)
I've never been a big Star Trek fan but I think this will open my eyes a bit.

I hope you all have a great day back to work. And don't forget to leave a comment with your name and email so you are entered in my 300th blog contest.
PEACE
Doug

Post #296 Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T22:57:00.005-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I ate a lot of fantastic food and I hope all of you did too. I wasn't going to post today, but I read this and had to share it. It is from one of my favorite blogs "things Christians like". Probably the best burn on typical Christian culture by a Christian that is in the middle of it, those of you that are regular church-goers will get a huge proverbial "kick" out of it. Here is a smidgen of a recent post about how Christian your cubicle is:

Some people use their cubicles as tiny little sanctuaries, bedazzling every flat surface with Jesus memorabilia. Other people use their cubicles as conversation starters with coworkers, "Oh what this? That's just an old Bible I keep around. Speaking of the Bible, would you like to accept Jesus into your heart before we go to the next staff meeting?"

Hope you thought it was as funny as I did.
PEACE
Doug

300th post blog contest

2008-11-26T10:46:00.002-06:00

Every 100 posts I do I've done something. For my 100th post I just sang happy birthday to myself (it was more depressing than fun or exciting). But for my 200th post I had a contest and I gave away some free stuff, which was fun! So that's what I'm going to do again. Simply leave a comment on any of my posts between now and number 300 with your email address and first name and I'll draw a winner and announce it for the 300th
Speaking of blog contests! Reed is our lucky winner of the Yearbookyourself.com contest. Although I'm pretty sure he just put in a picture of his dad so he should be disqualified, he still wins the free apparel of his choice. Congratulations Reed and good luck to the rest of you with our new contest!
PEACE
Doug

5 great $5 gift ideas for Christmas time

2008-11-20T17:39:00.003-06:00

Just had an idea to do this because I love finding cheap meaningful and fun gifts for this time of year. I think it comes from my love of the "stocking gifts" my...Santa was really good at making that memorable, and is still my favorite part of Christmas. So, here is a list of not-too specific ideas. I don't want to give away the things my friends and family might be getting.

Classic books - It is unfortunate that most of us stop reading the classics because they aren't assigned to us anymore. Or we watch the movie and pretend to believe we might as well not read the book. Some ideas are: The Count of Monte Cristo, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, or Gulliver's Travels. Most can be found on Amazon.com used for just a few bucks, and with no shipping if you spend enough on other purchases.
A photo album - But not just some random one, make an effort taking pictures with the family around a certain theme. If it is for Christmas then take a picture of your family looking at Christmas lights, and picking out a tree, and decorating the house, and sitting on Santa's lap, and wrapping presents. Or do a grandparents theme and do things that remind you of grandma and grandpa like: wearing the sweaters grandma made for you, or making the secret family cookies together, or listening to dad tell a story while sitting in the rocking chair grandpa made.
Freebies - Go to Von-Maur or some department store like it, and go around getting every free sample you can stash in your pockets. Then spend $5 making it look nice buy a cool bowl to arrange it all in and a maybe a note explaining how you want them to try experience every fragrance because they are as unique as each of these scents or flavors.
Restaurant gift certificates - Not just a $5 gift card, that wouldn't get you much. Go to Restaurant.com once every couple of weeks they have a deal that you can buy $25 gift cards for only $2 if you use a code they throw out. I always find out by going to slickdeals.net but if you're on their mailing list you usually get them too. There are requirements for the certificates but they are worth it, just be sure to read them.

Hope you like my ideas. Now that I can't use them anymore!
PEACE
Doug

I wanted to show this video last night but it didn't work

2008-11-20T11:15:00.002-06:00

Just thought you'd all appreciate how progressive the western church is becoming.
PEACE
Doug

Stolen: from Reed's blog

2008-11-19T11:47:00.002-06:00

Reed could only take 26, what a pansy. How many can you take?
PEACE
Doug

yearbook yourself contestants

2008-11-19T10:37:00.007-06:00

These are the pictures I got. We are looking for ONE picture winner. So if someone is on here twice vote for the picture you like the most. If Nick has the most votes but they are spread between multiple pictures it doesn't count. We are looking for the picture that gets the most votes. So without further instruction here are your contestants:

1. Hannah2. Nick (1)

3. Brandon4. Patricia

5. Nick (2)6. Reed

7. Nick (3)
So vote on the widget to the left, and on Monday we will see who the winner is of the free Engedi shirt. All of you need to vote, because you know these guys will only vote for themselves!
PEACE
Doug

I can't be the only 24 year-old that loves this stuff...can I?

2008-11-18T15:58:00.002-06:00

I have been a fan of Pixar since "Toy Story", and they haven only gotten better as time goes on. I would even say that today's DVD release "Wall-e" is my favorite of everything they've done. A robot has become the most adorable and lovable character I've ever seen. And now that my son is old enough to appreciate movies it gives me even more joy to sit and connect with him by watching a movie I actually enjoy (unlike "Baby Einstein"...UGH). Then today I saw the new trailer for their upcoming Summer release and I'm more than a little excited. I'll be able to take Jax to the movies for a release we will both hopefully love, and have one of those father-son moments where the piano does that four note dah-dah-dah-dah in the background (not the slow walking away music)...you know what I mean. I'm not the only one that imagines their life is a movie and has a soundtrack. So anyway check out the preview and leave a comment with your favorite animated movie.
PEACE
Doug

the results are in...

2008-11-16T22:22:00.002-06:00

Here is what you thought about my latest poll:
What new type of apparel should we offer for the Christmas season?
Scarfs 33%
Zip-up Hoodies 30%
Mittens 15%
Beanies 11%
Baseball Caps 7%
Belt Buckles 4%
Who knows you just might get your wish you crazy people. First Purple shirts then scarfs, you know sometimes I wonder if I even know you. Just kidding, I'm right on-board with you. Hope you come to the concert on the 22nd you'll get first swing at our new gear! I'm not making any promises but I think a majority of you will be happy...
PEACE
Doug

Engedi update!

2008-11-14T09:00:00.002-06:00

We are finishing up our meeting right now, but I couldn't wait to tell you about the promotion we are doing for the 22nd Reset Concert (with Take the City, the Dawn Retreat and Joel Bickford). It is $10 at the door (Solid Rock Cafe) or you can wear a Take the City shirt and get in for free! But there is another way! If you wear ANY Engedi shirt you can get in for only $5. We will even sell some of the shirts in the entry way so if you were planning on buying a shirt once you get there you still get the $5 discount!
I am stoked for this show and just in case you aren't yet, here is another incentive to get your booty to the show: We are giving away prizes throughout the night! Not just lame little trinkets, I'm talking cool stuff. I would tell you more but David (pictured to the left) would be upset if I ruined his surprises.
Thanks for your support!
PEACE
Doug

Shame on them dunk video compilation

2008-11-13T11:56:00.003-06:00

Basketball Bloopers - Missing DunksKind of like an America's Funniest Videos but all-in-all good stuff.
PEACE
Doug

Pop Christmas post

2008-11-12T08:45:00.002-06:00

Just saw this on Josh Griffin's blog and wanted to steal it. Great idea, great production, and best of all it makes you think. I'll probably pass it on to the big pastor just to see if he wants to use it for anything. Also check out Oxfam or World Vision. If you've never heard of them, you should look around on their sites. You can sponsor a child, but you can also give a gift to a family, or to a whole village. You could give a huge gift like the fresh water well that the video is talking about. Or for half the price of an ipod nano you can give a goat to a family. A goat provides milk for a whole family daily, and potential income from offspring, and even the fertilizer is used to help crops grow. Pretty huge gift for only $75.

And now that I've hopefully given everyone a booster shot of compassion I'm going to end my post with 10 random pop-culture thoughts (idea stolen from JG's Blog):

1. Fable 2 had the worst ending of any game ever. For two days I kept playing thinking it would say "Just kidding here's the real ending" but it never happened.
2. I would argue that there are more Star Wars spin-offs, merchandise, and media out right now than there were in the 70's (not that I was actually around to know).
3. "Fringe" is the new "X-Files" but I don't need another show to watch...Why are TV shows so good right now?
4. When is the "Dark Knight" coming out on DVD? All the movies that were out at the same time in theaters are coming out or have already...I just want to watch it every day on my lunch break!
5. Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johansson...awesome.
6. Now that Obama is the president when do I stop paying for my health care? Or did I miss something?
7. Which one is better "Guitar Hero World Tour" or "Rock Band 2"? I just want a simple answer.
8. There are no good guys left on the show "Heroes". That's why this season is called Villains! To point out that they are all a villain in some moral or habitual way.
9. Right about now I'm starting to wonder how many Christmas albums I'll buy this year. Seems like each year I buy at least three, then I throw them away after Christmas because I can't stand them anymore...then I buy them again, or new ones with the same songs.
10. This is me after every single episode of "Lost":
"What the heck is going on?! Who's that guy and what is that smoke dragon thing?"

PEACE
Doug

Remember remember the 22nd of November

2008-11-06T11:25:00.003-06:00

This is our big launch for our new brand, new gear, new vision. We will be rocking out with Take the City and you know you don't want to miss them! You won't regret it.
I know it has been a long time coming so I wanted to make sure everyone remembers and plans on showing up to the show.
If you buy a take the city shirt you get in for free! Otherwise it is $10, so get a $20 shirt and get $10 ticket free...pretty sweet deal. We are also trying to get another band to come down and open for them...I'll let you know if they can do it. Thanks for checking it out!
PEACE
Doug

I know the election is over, but...

2008-11-06T10:19:00.001-06:00

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

Probably should check this jazz out. Now I feel bad I didn't vote for him.
PEACE
Doug

Poll results: shirt color

2008-11-04T16:05:00.002-06:00

What color shirt should we create next?
and the winner is...

Purple 28%
Sea Foam Green 24%

Kelly Green 21%

Orange 14%
Red 10%
Pale Yellow 3%

PEACE
Doug

Too busy, but I still voted

2008-11-04T15:52:00.003-06:00

Today was a good day. It was busy, and stressful, and I didn't eat lunch until after 3:00pm but it was still good. I've been really busy planning for our big PSH in-service day. We are having a whole night of training our Youth Staff, and it is going to be a blast. There are two videos that are going to be showed and they are hilarious, we used lots of the typical youth group approaches and I think they will come off as priceless. I'll be sure to throw one of them up after everyone sees it tomorrow night.
Also I voted. It was a fun experience, except I had to go to more than one location (I didn't know where I was registered to go). But thankfully the old codger that helped me at the first place I tried pinpointed my actual voting station after only 17 phone calls. It will all be worth if the person I voted for wins...GO HILLARY! No not really. I'm not going to throw my vote away, I voted for Ralph Nader.
Vote early and often!
PEACE
Doug

New site and new shirt funny video

2008-10-30T13:57:00.003-05:00

Welcome to humilityisvirtue.com! I hope you enjoy it. Because I know I do. This is just easier for people to find and easier hopefully for me to maintain. So be sure to change your bookmark to this new site now...great, let's get started.
Here is our new shirt that came out yesterday. I would have posted it but I was trying to switch everything over to this new site, and it didn't work the first few tries...go figure. Anyway, the name of this shirt is Prodigal Son. Obviously it's a dude walking, but if you've heard this story, you know that it is so much more than just a dude walking. I'll pause for the "ah-ha" moment...OK. So, go order it while we still have free shipping (which ends after Friday).
Also Thursdays are usually my viral video day so here you go:

The Great Office War from Runawaybox on Vimeo.

Year book yourself contest

2008-10-29T09:36:00.002-05:00

OK, here is my yearbookyourself picture. I would like to see yours. The person with the most hilarious one wins a free shirt...pretty simple. Just leave a comment with a link to the picture you created through this hilarious site.
PEACE
Doug

Things don't work out like we plan...

2008-10-28T16:23:00.003-05:00

I was just reflecting on some things that have been going on at the church, specifically with the youth ministry and I just about burned my calendar. It seems like every time I make plans or decide we are going to do something fundamentally different, it totally explodes. Although that seems negative, it doesn't have to be. For example, I planned a meditation sermon series for my youth (even for the Jr high) and thought it'll be great. I knew that it would be tough, but I thought if one or two of them get it and can actually learn to listen to God, that would be so worth the other two kids being bored out of their minds. So when the part of my sermon came that I gave them total silence to listen to God, and I was in full force police cruiser mode, ready to tap people on the shoulder if they started giggling to ask for their registration. I was blown away to realize they were actually doing it. I didn't even plan on it working, I just thought God wanted me to have another lesson in humility. Then the craziest part was that I got a chance to listen to God too. What a treat. Our meditation time EXPLODED, in all the best ways.
But my thought is, why do I even plan when I never really have a clue what God is going to do. When I plan for the worst the best happens, and when I think I've finally got a grasp on what the big G has for us, he slaps me on the forehead and chuckles like I'm just the cutest little guy trying to wear big-boy pants.
When I was first starting out as a camp counselor (for Summer Games) the founder of the camp, Stan Wierson had that same kind of agenda. There were times when he came in unannounced and would take over an evening service and all the planning and effort we put in was just wasted, but great things would happen. One time we prepared a skit and a song to preform and he walked up and took the mic and said "We're going to sing Christmas carols!" and we did. Then there are other times when he was supposed to give the sermon some night and he just never showed up. We'd just look at each other until finally someone would wing it in his absence. We always saw it as pretty inconvenient, but does God do that same thing. Is he teaching us to not take ourselves too seriously? Or is the moral, to plan but don't get your hopes up because if your plan is bad, God is going to change it?
I think ultimately I'm just going to keep stressing out because ministry is stressful. And God has the right to change things as much as He wants, but I still have to be responsible with the time I have with these kids. And I'm not going to just show up with no plans and demand or try to force God to do something...I'll just let him show up and do His thing whenever He's ready to. I'm OK with never having control.
PEACE
Doug

Guy's Galaxy Shirt

2008-10-28T14:25:00.001-05:00

New shirt AGAIN!

2008-10-28T10:02:00.000-05:00

Another new shirt just popped! Check it out. You get free shipping until Friday!
PEACE
Doug

Monday's Shirt Release

2008-10-27T14:43:00.003-05:00

This is what I was talking about. We are releasing a-shirt-a-day until all our new shirts are out there for you to get your hands on. This is the first one, and yes we are doing free shipping until Friday, so you better act today. There may not be any left tomorrow.
PEACE
Doug