There are many  remembrances and videos being shown to commemorate Patriot Day this Sunday. It really is amazing how 9/11 has become so memorable to so many. I just saw this video for the first time and loved it.

I am excited about this year. I really sense God is doing some things at our church to build his people. I am really excited about a leadership training opportunity our church and school will be a part of in a few months. On Friday May 6 is a Chick-Fil-A Leadercast Event. It is one of the best one-day leadership events I know. The all-day event is broadcast live from Atlanta to venues all over the United States. Bethel Baptist Church is partnering with Chick-Fil-A to help host an event site. The really awesome part is this, we have secured permission to use Coca-Cola park event facilities for the live broadcast! How cool is that?!!

I have included a video introduction from Tony Dungy who spoke at last year’s event. It is a great video. This year will be more impacting speakers. Who is invited? Anyone wanting to build their leadership skills. There is a cost to the day as well as some other important information. Watch for that to come in the days ahead. For now, enjoy the  video and check out the website for the Leadercast here.

Now that I am just a short few months into the blog, I am feeling that I need to get into a better routine of keeping things going. One of the keys to blogging is to make sure to post regularly which I am working at. Having stated that, it occurred to me that that I have not really even begun to make any headway with some posts on leadership.

John Wooden, UCLA Southern Campus, 1960

When I started this blog I intended to make leadership a core subject which I would still like to pursue. To my defense, I feel that I am more of a “learner” in this area than someone who has any worthwhile experiences or advice to share. Most of what I write about is (more…)

The last few years at our church have been encouraging to me in several ways but one way that stands out is our growing interest in support for those serving in our military. Our first Armed Forces Appreciation Sunday a few years ago stands out as one of my favorite services.

President Woodrow Wilson was the first to proclaim an Armistice Day for November 11, 1919. Here’s something he said about the holiday that was to become Veterans Day,

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This last weekend was such a great encouragement to our church. The folks from Northland International University were so helpful and transparent with our folks. It was refreshing and challenging.

Dr. Matt Williams and Mr. Brent Belford provided clear and compelling teaching at Saturday’s School of Servants. Dr.Matt Olson joined us for Sunday services and Monday hosting a One-day Pastor’s Conference. The following are some of my favorite highlights of their time with us.

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This Tuesday, November 2nd, we have another opportunity to exercise our freedom to vote.  Do you remember the pictures that circulated around the world of Iraqis with an inked finger voting for the first time? We have such a huge responsibility and privilege in our country to be involved.

So from a Christian perspective what are some reasons it is so important to vote?

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“That part of my life is probably over.” That is what Texas Rangers team president, Nolan Ryan, was heard saying some time ago.  Wow must he be pleased and surprised!  The Texas Rangers are in their first ever World Series facing the Giants whose proud history includes Willie Mays, Gaylord Perry, and Barry Bonds. 

NU Free Documentation License

What is it that is so encouraging and motivational about inspiring sports moments?

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“We already have a blog for our pastoral staff, so why start another another one?” That question wasn’t asked by someone to me…that question is my question! Why in the world do something that will take time to maintain? 

Here are some reasons that compel me to move forward with this blog: (more…)