"So, this is Christmas and what have we done? Another year over and a new one has begun..."
An extraordinarily obvious observation by the song writer and yet an insight into a little soul searching and a nudge to each of us to do the same.
Let's put aside for a minute political preferences, who's in control agendas, personal convictions about government and its motives and lawmaking procedures, worries about who's really in charge, and...hey, wait a minute, that's the same kind of political environment God sent His only Son as a baby into - and not to change it or condemn it, but to live in it and save it!!
So let's go ahead and ask ourselves the question, "So this is Christmas and what have we done?" Can we include our activities this last year with those of Jesus, who though He was God, put aside his royal privileges and became like one of us, to live as one of us, be tempted as one of us, weep like one of us, be frustrated like one of us, be denied like one of us, be betrayed like one of us, and so on?
I think that too often we as Christians think we have become something that we haven't and it keeps us from living shoulder to shoulder with those in this world we live with and keeps us so separate from those whom Jesus came to save that we end up living our lives year after year frustrated that no one is coming over to "our side". Jesus brought "His side" into the lives of the people He lived with. "But although the world was made through Him, the world didn't recognize Him when He came. Even in His own land and among His own people, He was not accepted. But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God...So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness."
So to quote another famous line from our culture, "...that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."
So this is Christmas and what have we done...more importantly, what are we doing with what God wants to get done?
Mike
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Blueprints
For a few weeks now we've been laying the groundwork for the building of Branches Church. We've compared it to drawing up blueprints, staking out the building site, digging to bedrock, laying foundation, and building up the walls and structure on that.
We can see how the body of Christ has been compared to a building. Jesus said that He would build the church, and Peter said that we, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house.
Even though we cannot see bedrock from the ground we walk on everyday, we know if we dig deep enough into the earth we'll find it. Let's compare this to searching for God...from wherever we are on this earth...spiritually speaking...dig around, look, and dig some more, and we'll find Him. He promised us that. Jesus said that anyone who searches for him will find Him; and anyone who hears Him knock and opens the door will have communion with Him.
We also know that it is unwise to not build a foundation on that bedrock. The bedrock and foundation is Christs' relationship with us...Matthew 16 "Who do you say that I am?" "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." "And I say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church"... I know you and you know me...and the teachings of the apostles and prophets. God's Word. 2 Timothy 2:19 says, "But God's truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: 'The Lord knows those who are His'."
The "lively stones" that build the walls are you and I. Alive because of Christ, and placed in the building as He sees fit. Everyone has a place.
So, as we are drawing up the blueprints for Branches Church, we have set four corners that will set the parameters for our building. They are...
1. A Safe Place to Dialogue, Doubt, and Learn
2. Authenticity; Real People Living Real Lives in a Real World
3. Accepting: Just Come As You Are
4. Growing; Becoming More and More What Christ Intends for Us to Be
If we keep everything we do within these parameters, we will find a healthy, life-giving church community made up of people and not one that is built for people.
Mike
We can see how the body of Christ has been compared to a building. Jesus said that He would build the church, and Peter said that we, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house.
Even though we cannot see bedrock from the ground we walk on everyday, we know if we dig deep enough into the earth we'll find it. Let's compare this to searching for God...from wherever we are on this earth...spiritually speaking...dig around, look, and dig some more, and we'll find Him. He promised us that. Jesus said that anyone who searches for him will find Him; and anyone who hears Him knock and opens the door will have communion with Him.
We also know that it is unwise to not build a foundation on that bedrock. The bedrock and foundation is Christs' relationship with us...Matthew 16 "Who do you say that I am?" "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." "And I say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church"... I know you and you know me...and the teachings of the apostles and prophets. God's Word. 2 Timothy 2:19 says, "But God's truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: 'The Lord knows those who are His'."
The "lively stones" that build the walls are you and I. Alive because of Christ, and placed in the building as He sees fit. Everyone has a place.
So, as we are drawing up the blueprints for Branches Church, we have set four corners that will set the parameters for our building. They are...
1. A Safe Place to Dialogue, Doubt, and Learn
2. Authenticity; Real People Living Real Lives in a Real World
3. Accepting: Just Come As You Are
4. Growing; Becoming More and More What Christ Intends for Us to Be
If we keep everything we do within these parameters, we will find a healthy, life-giving church community made up of people and not one that is built for people.
Mike
Monday, November 2, 2009
It's Official!
It's so good to be back home after our two weeks on the road in church planting training and assessment interviews with ARC (Association of Related Churches). Robin and I are wondering how we're ever going to remember all we've taken in so we can pass it on to you guys. As situations arise we'll be better prepared and able to proactively address them. And, there's always the books to open again and again!
ARC has officially invited Branches Church to partner with them in planting in Menomonie! It's an honor and a privilege to have the coaching, mentoring and accountability that comes with a successful organization like this. They will help nurture our strengths and coach us in our weaknesses until the vision of what God has placed in us is launched successfully and beyond.
As we continue the process of laying the foundation of a new work, we will find it is as much work inside each of us as it is putting our hands to work setting up a portable church on a Sunday morning. To help us in that process we are going through the John Burke book, "No Perfect People Allowed". Last week we completed chapter three asking ourselves these four questions as we build this local church:
1. When was the last time you really had a dialogue with a non-Christian person to try to understand why he or she held their particular beliefs?
2. If a spiritual seeker came into your church, would the average person try to convince him/her in one conversation to change, or be willing to dialogue and listen as much as speak?
3. Do you feel comfortable creating a culture where people could hang out, question, and doubt for months or years as they wrestle to find faith? What fears or concerns does it raise for you?
4. What personal mindset shift, vision-casting, story-telling, or organizational changes could be made to better create a culture of dialogue?
Branches Church is a "come as you are" place and although that seems a little simple, it is still a journey...for all of us; come as you are but don't stay that way. For some it is a journey of selflessness, for others a journey into their fears of pain and darkness. Either way, going from A to Z with God starts with A to B...and so on. So come as you are with us and we'll build this local church and journey into faith together!
Mike
ARC has officially invited Branches Church to partner with them in planting in Menomonie! It's an honor and a privilege to have the coaching, mentoring and accountability that comes with a successful organization like this. They will help nurture our strengths and coach us in our weaknesses until the vision of what God has placed in us is launched successfully and beyond.
As we continue the process of laying the foundation of a new work, we will find it is as much work inside each of us as it is putting our hands to work setting up a portable church on a Sunday morning. To help us in that process we are going through the John Burke book, "No Perfect People Allowed". Last week we completed chapter three asking ourselves these four questions as we build this local church:
1. When was the last time you really had a dialogue with a non-Christian person to try to understand why he or she held their particular beliefs?
2. If a spiritual seeker came into your church, would the average person try to convince him/her in one conversation to change, or be willing to dialogue and listen as much as speak?
3. Do you feel comfortable creating a culture where people could hang out, question, and doubt for months or years as they wrestle to find faith? What fears or concerns does it raise for you?
4. What personal mindset shift, vision-casting, story-telling, or organizational changes could be made to better create a culture of dialogue?
Branches Church is a "come as you are" place and although that seems a little simple, it is still a journey...for all of us; come as you are but don't stay that way. For some it is a journey of selflessness, for others a journey into their fears of pain and darkness. Either way, going from A to Z with God starts with A to B...and so on. So come as you are with us and we'll build this local church and journey into faith together!
Mike
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Walkin' in Memphis
Yesterday, as we were passing through on our way to Atlanta, Robin and I got to spend the day in Memphis. You know, Graceland, Sun Studio where Elvis, B.B King, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and many more got their start; as well as those who have recently recorded there like U2, Maroon 5, Bonnie Raitt, and others. And don't forget the best Blues and BBQ down on Beale Street you can find. We did the whole tourist thing - ALL OF IT - food to music to tours. Even the pan-handler who wanted to be the first to welcome us to Memphis...Too fun! It was just what we needed to relax and laugh and eat after last weeks intensive 12-16 hour a day training!
We were reminded as we toured Graceland and the VERY small Sun Studio building that life is a series of choices and investments. Not necessarily in the physical things, but in the eternal things that we eventually get measured by...what we become remembered for, what mattered to us, and that it is not about how or where you get started, but how you finish that matters the most.
Branches Church has the vision of being real people, with real lives and real Jesus; and living this out by accepting people where they are on their spiritual journey and walking that journey with them into a growing relationship with Jesus. (that doesn't mean they will believe like me or you on this or that...that is not the measure of spiritual growth - more on that later)
In order to accomplish that we cannot expect the beginning of our journey to look like the end of it. We cannot start with everything God has for us...it's too much. It's a journey for the church, it's a journey for you and me, and it's a journey for the guest and for the seeker of truth that uses Branches Church to journey together toward what Jesus has for their life. The start is not the end. It's a series of choices and investments in time, prayer, people, each other, our families, our community, and our relationship with Christ as we start looking more and more like what He is doing in the world today as His body. How we finish as Branches Church and the impact we have on people because we are following hard after what God is doing in our communities is what matters the most. Let's never forget that!
Mike
We were reminded as we toured Graceland and the VERY small Sun Studio building that life is a series of choices and investments. Not necessarily in the physical things, but in the eternal things that we eventually get measured by...what we become remembered for, what mattered to us, and that it is not about how or where you get started, but how you finish that matters the most.
Branches Church has the vision of being real people, with real lives and real Jesus; and living this out by accepting people where they are on their spiritual journey and walking that journey with them into a growing relationship with Jesus. (that doesn't mean they will believe like me or you on this or that...that is not the measure of spiritual growth - more on that later)
In order to accomplish that we cannot expect the beginning of our journey to look like the end of it. We cannot start with everything God has for us...it's too much. It's a journey for the church, it's a journey for you and me, and it's a journey for the guest and for the seeker of truth that uses Branches Church to journey together toward what Jesus has for their life. The start is not the end. It's a series of choices and investments in time, prayer, people, each other, our families, our community, and our relationship with Christ as we start looking more and more like what He is doing in the world today as His body. How we finish as Branches Church and the impact we have on people because we are following hard after what God is doing in our communities is what matters the most. Let's never forget that!
Mike
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What Do YOU Think?
"People can be accepted just as they are and still be lovingly challenged to become what Jesus wants them to be."
I would like to hear from yo
u what this concept would look like in the culture of Branches Church...
People = There will always be four groups of people with us as we meet together... 1. the community checking us out 2. guests socializing with us 3. attenders plugging into our ministries 4. devoted followers of Christ stepping into leadership and investing in others
Accepted = you've heard me discuss the difference between acceptance and approval
As they are = with all the baggage that comes with bad choices, weak religion, nasty attitudes, opposing political views, lack of belief in God and all
Lovingly challenged = demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit, not allowing a "clean up your life" attitude to prevail, but demonstrating and mentoring Christ's call to follow Him as you are
Become what Jesus wants them to be = many of us may be stuck thinking that this may be all there is in life...Jesus came preaching more; more life, more of God, more joy, more freedom, more hope, more faith, more good, more love, more peace, more, more, more...and this applies to everyone of us right now regardless of where we are in our walk with God; or think we are!
Let me know.
Mike
I would like to hear from yo
u what this concept would look like in the culture of Branches Church...People = There will always be four groups of people with us as we meet together... 1. the community checking us out 2. guests socializing with us 3. attenders plugging into our ministries 4. devoted followers of Christ stepping into leadership and investing in others
Accepted = you've heard me discuss the difference between acceptance and approval
As they are = with all the baggage that comes with bad choices, weak religion, nasty attitudes, opposing political views, lack of belief in God and all
Lovingly challenged = demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit, not allowing a "clean up your life" attitude to prevail, but demonstrating and mentoring Christ's call to follow Him as you are
Become what Jesus wants them to be = many of us may be stuck thinking that this may be all there is in life...Jesus came preaching more; more life, more of God, more joy, more freedom, more hope, more faith, more good, more love, more peace, more, more, more...and this applies to everyone of us right now regardless of where we are in our walk with God; or think we are!
Let me know.
Mike
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Doing versus Being
Real People, Real Lives, Real Jesus.
What exactly does this look like in a church? What have you seen in your mind's eye when you've heard this statement while hanging around the people of Branches Church? Everyone of us probrably sees something different based on our 'religious experience'. Let me give you an example:
Close your eyes for a moment, and imagine a sunset. Go ahead, right now as you are reading this...the rest of the words won't go away because your eyes are closed...give it a moment and identify the locations, the colors, the scene...
Everyone has a different description of the sunset. Everyone sees a sunset, but our descriptions are different based on our experiences. Some saw the sunset of their childhood. Some saw one from their youth. Some saw the sunset of their honeymoon in an exotic place they've never been able to return to. Some saw the sunset that someone else painted for them on a canvas. Some saw the sunset from their favorite family vacation spot. Some may have had the city skyline in the background. Some may have been over water or a shoreline. Some may have had mountains or a country field and barn.
What I'm saying is that the sunset is the sunset; we can all agree on that. Our description of it is based on how we've experienced it. It may be we couldn't make up our mind on which kind of sunset we want to imagine because we've experienced some pretty cool ones. Maybe, you didn't see a sunset with colors at all...it was the end of the day and dark and it's over and I don't know what to do next. It brought feelings of abandonment or fear or aloneness. I'm convinced that the same goes for church.
When we say we want to be a church for Real People, Living Real Lives for a Real Jesus; that we want to be a 'come as you are' church; that we want to journey with people in their walk with God; that we value authenticity and truth and being culturally relevant; I believe we all see the same thing but we would all describe it differently based on our past church experiences.
This is where the leadership of Branches Church is going to get down to the nitty-gritty and teach and model the DNA of the meaning of the teachings of Christ and not the 'this is how you have to do it' templates of religiosity. Being Christ-like is more important than doing Christian things. Having Christ-like compassion is more important than what we believe about sin in somebody's lifestyle. Being the Church of Jesus Christ in this generation is more important than doing church for this generation.
This type of attitude is going to be heard and modeled over and over and over again in Branches teachings until we get it...so be encouraged and keep seeking out what God has for us in Menomonie. He who has begun a good work in us will be faithful to complete it!
Mike
What exactly does this look like in a church? What have you seen in your mind's eye when you've heard this statement while hanging around the people of Branches Church? Everyone of us probrably sees something different based on our 'religious experience'. Let me give you an example:
Close your eyes for a moment, and imagine a sunset. Go ahead, right now as you are reading this...the rest of the words won't go away because your eyes are closed...give it a moment and identify the locations, the colors, the scene...
Everyone has a different description of the sunset. Everyone sees a sunset, but our descriptions are different based on our experiences. Some saw the sunset of their childhood. Some saw one from their youth. Some saw the sunset of their honeymoon in an exotic place they've never been able to return to. Some saw the sunset that someone else painted for them on a canvas. Some saw the sunset from their favorite family vacation spot. Some may have had the city skyline in the background. Some may have been over water or a shoreline. Some may have had mountains or a country field and barn.
What I'm saying is that the sunset is the sunset; we can all agree on that. Our description of it is based on how we've experienced it. It may be we couldn't make up our mind on which kind of sunset we want to imagine because we've experienced some pretty cool ones. Maybe, you didn't see a sunset with colors at all...it was the end of the day and dark and it's over and I don't know what to do next. It brought feelings of abandonment or fear or aloneness. I'm convinced that the same goes for church.
When we say we want to be a church for Real People, Living Real Lives for a Real Jesus; that we want to be a 'come as you are' church; that we want to journey with people in their walk with God; that we value authenticity and truth and being culturally relevant; I believe we all see the same thing but we would all describe it differently based on our past church experiences.
This is where the leadership of Branches Church is going to get down to the nitty-gritty and teach and model the DNA of the meaning of the teachings of Christ and not the 'this is how you have to do it' templates of religiosity. Being Christ-like is more important than doing Christian things. Having Christ-like compassion is more important than what we believe about sin in somebody's lifestyle. Being the Church of Jesus Christ in this generation is more important than doing church for this generation.
This type of attitude is going to be heard and modeled over and over and over again in Branches teachings until we get it...so be encouraged and keep seeking out what God has for us in Menomonie. He who has begun a good work in us will be faithful to complete it!
Mike
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Our Weekend
We missed being at home in Menomonie with the Branches congregation this morning. I am glad that this is Jesus' church and not mine or any individuals. We, as parts of the body of Christ, can never say we have no need of another part. THANK YOU to all of you who kept Branches going this weekend!! You have my deepest respect.
Last night and today Robin and I were on two of four church campuses with New Life Church in Little Rock, AR participating in the Saturday night service at one and the first Sunday service at another as they were simulcast to the other three campuses. Then we became one of the 'kids' participating in the children's ministry service. I've not moved that much to music since jogging with a cassette walk-man. (Hint: there's an age time-line clue here!) We had a great time learning about ministering to K-5th graders and the different curriculum that is available to us. These connections we're making are great for resources!
After that we had lunch with the Pastor and then sat through a new-membership class the way New Life does it. Ideas for how Branches can do some of these kinds of things are filling my head and we are going to be able to get together and get it down in writing as soon as we're back with you.
We are being affirmed as we hear what God is doing in the country all around us. There are congregations just like us planting themselves where people have distanced themselves from church and ultimately God. We are on a great time-line. We have made great choices concerning our mission and values, our purpose and facility, our governing, and our leadership. God is good.
Monday brings classes on vision, communication, decision making, marketing, and finance. Robin says her brain is exploding...wait 'till tomorrow dear!
We'll fill you in more later.
Mike and Robin from Little Rock
Last night and today Robin and I were on two of four church campuses with New Life Church in Little Rock, AR participating in the Saturday night service at one and the first Sunday service at another as they were simulcast to the other three campuses. Then we became one of the 'kids' participating in the children's ministry service. I've not moved that much to music since jogging with a cassette walk-man. (Hint: there's an age time-line clue here!) We had a great time learning about ministering to K-5th graders and the different curriculum that is available to us. These connections we're making are great for resources!
After that we had lunch with the Pastor and then sat through a new-membership class the way New Life does it. Ideas for how Branches can do some of these kinds of things are filling my head and we are going to be able to get together and get it down in writing as soon as we're back with you.
We are being affirmed as we hear what God is doing in the country all around us. There are congregations just like us planting themselves where people have distanced themselves from church and ultimately God. We are on a great time-line. We have made great choices concerning our mission and values, our purpose and facility, our governing, and our leadership. God is good.
Monday brings classes on vision, communication, decision making, marketing, and finance. Robin says her brain is exploding...wait 'till tomorrow dear!
We'll fill you in more later.
Mike and Robin from Little Rock
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Identifying IT
"Some ministries have IT. Some don't. Most churches want IT. Few have IT. When a church has IT, everyone can tell. And when a church doesn't...everyone can tell." -Craig Groeschel
Can you imagine what our church would look like if everyone had IT? IT is not about me, the leadership team, the building, the ministries, or even the people. IT is about God. And, when we all put our focus on Him, we will see things happen that we could not even imagine before. "Whatever you do, do it with all your heart as unto the Lord and not as unto men." - Colossians 3:23
IT is being moved with compassion for the unchurched who are looking for something in this world to hope in. IT is living with integrity and sincerity so that we might be qualified to give an answer to the hope that is within us. IT is relying on God's Spirit and strength and leading. IT is being down to earth authentic and approachable to this generation. IT is about brokenness and not what I can get out of it. IT is when our life, our ministry, and our purpose becomes about God and His people and no longer about us. Can you imagine?
As Branches gets underway, we need to identify what God has called US to do. Every person has 'something' on the inside of them that is related closely to their God-given passion in life and that is what you bring to Branches Church. That is where what we collectively value will show up. That is where we will find God will supply IT - if we let Him. Ask yourself, "What is one aspect of this wrecked world, that when I see it, touch it, get near it, compels me to do something to bring about change? This is your spiritual EKG: it's what brings you to action. It's what will identify IT...or not. The choice is ours. It comes down to us. It's not a formula or a personality, or a worship style..it's Jesus at work.
Mike and Robin from Little Rock
Can you imagine what our church would look like if everyone had IT? IT is not about me, the leadership team, the building, the ministries, or even the people. IT is about God. And, when we all put our focus on Him, we will see things happen that we could not even imagine before. "Whatever you do, do it with all your heart as unto the Lord and not as unto men." - Colossians 3:23
IT is being moved with compassion for the unchurched who are looking for something in this world to hope in. IT is living with integrity and sincerity so that we might be qualified to give an answer to the hope that is within us. IT is relying on God's Spirit and strength and leading. IT is being down to earth authentic and approachable to this generation. IT is about brokenness and not what I can get out of it. IT is when our life, our ministry, and our purpose becomes about God and His people and no longer about us. Can you imagine?
As Branches gets underway, we need to identify what God has called US to do. Every person has 'something' on the inside of them that is related closely to their God-given passion in life and that is what you bring to Branches Church. That is where what we collectively value will show up. That is where we will find God will supply IT - if we let Him. Ask yourself, "What is one aspect of this wrecked world, that when I see it, touch it, get near it, compels me to do something to bring about change? This is your spiritual EKG: it's what brings you to action. It's what will identify IT...or not. The choice is ours. It comes down to us. It's not a formula or a personality, or a worship style..it's Jesus at work.
Mike and Robin from Little Rock
Friday, October 16, 2009
Basic Training
Well, Robin and I have just spent our first evening with the leadership of New Life Church in Little Rock, AR. We were reminded of the reasons we plant churches...because Christ is calling us to. It's how He is reaching this generation. We should not define reaching this generation as 'doing what the church has always done' in order to wait for this generation to come to it's senses and seek out the church. No, it's hearing the voice of the Spirit calling us out of the dark corners of the safety of our church communities to step into the lives of the unchurched people in our neighborhoods and communities.
We'll do this by addressing five of the most used excuses for not going to church:
1. by not being weird and so different from them that they can't relate to us even in a casual conversation let alone the sharing of Christ.
2. by being relevant in our approach to how music is presented in our church
3. by being kid friendly, a place that is gracious and loving, a safe place, an environment for kids to grow and have fun.
4. by not asking for money in order to keep the church running, but teaching how to and allowing people to give cheerfully as directed by the Spirit and their own heart and ability.
5. by presenting sermons and teachings that are Monday through Friday relevant and practical.
We are not going to hold our personal convictions concerning how we as individuals live out our walk with Christ as the truth of the gospel, or the only way it can or should be done. But we are going to love people, we are going to be patient, and kind, with self-control, and let the fruit of the Spirit live deeply through us as we build relationships with people around us.
Branches Church is all about relationships. Relationships can be our greatest strength in establishing who we are as we begin, but also it can be our greatest weakness. If those relationships are not focused in the people around us but become contained within the culture of Branches church, we lose the reason for being laborers in the harvest, the reason Christ is calling workers to plant churches, the reason why Christ came to redeem the lost.
We'll keep you posted each day!
Mike and Robin
We'll do this by addressing five of the most used excuses for not going to church:
1. by not being weird and so different from them that they can't relate to us even in a casual conversation let alone the sharing of Christ.
2. by being relevant in our approach to how music is presented in our church
3. by being kid friendly, a place that is gracious and loving, a safe place, an environment for kids to grow and have fun.
4. by not asking for money in order to keep the church running, but teaching how to and allowing people to give cheerfully as directed by the Spirit and their own heart and ability.
5. by presenting sermons and teachings that are Monday through Friday relevant and practical.
We are not going to hold our personal convictions concerning how we as individuals live out our walk with Christ as the truth of the gospel, or the only way it can or should be done. But we are going to love people, we are going to be patient, and kind, with self-control, and let the fruit of the Spirit live deeply through us as we build relationships with people around us.
Branches Church is all about relationships. Relationships can be our greatest strength in establishing who we are as we begin, but also it can be our greatest weakness. If those relationships are not focused in the people around us but become contained within the culture of Branches church, we lose the reason for being laborers in the harvest, the reason Christ is calling workers to plant churches, the reason why Christ came to redeem the lost.
We'll keep you posted each day!
Mike and Robin
Monday, October 12, 2009
Be Prepared - What we learn from the Boy Scouts
The Boy Scouts have a great motto: "Be Prepared". It has gotten many a boy, and man, through tough times or difficult circumstances just by giving them a fighting chance and an educated guess to work with. The preparation in living out that motto takes intentional time, effort, focus, and work on their part in order to "Be Prepared".
So too, the task before us in planting Branches Church. We say we are "Real People, Living Real Lives, in a Real World" but authenticity does not prepare us for action in our role as real people in the real world...being prepared does.
I'm thinking of two particular stories that Jesus talked about:
1. The Good Samaritan...Luke 10
2. The final judgment...Matthew 25
Both stories contain the accounts of people who had done the right thing by being prepared with what was needed at the time; medicine, money, compassion, friendship, food, water, clothing and the basic needs of life. Both stories have Jesus applauding those who were prepared for the task they found themselves in. He even went so far as to say that as they used their compassion and resources for those around them, they were actually using them for Him! It really hits home the Greatest Commandment; "love God with all your heart, soul and mind and your neighbor as yourself" and the New Commandment Jesus left His church: "love one another as I have loved you".
In wanting to be prepared, Robin and I are heading to a church planter's basic training. This training is sponsored by ARC (The Association of Related Churches) and is in Little Rock, AR and is seven days of intense unpacking of the things it is going to take to organize and establish Branches Church as a new congregation. It sheds light on what it takes to be prepared to have the best launch day we possibly can and what to expect during our first year as a new church in our community. We also have our Church Planter Assessment this month in Atlanta. It consists of a two day interview with ARC on our ministry, our game plan, our gifts and fit, the core team, Branches financial state, and how ARC can come alongside and help. Be prepared. It's a good motto. It's a lot of work and commitment. It's worth it.
I heard a story today about two farmers. They both prayed for rain at the beginning of the season but none was falling. One went out and plowed his dry field and the other waited for it to rain before he did his work...which one was living in faith? Be prepared. It's a good motto.
Mike
So too, the task before us in planting Branches Church. We say we are "Real People, Living Real Lives, in a Real World" but authenticity does not prepare us for action in our role as real people in the real world...being prepared does.
I'm thinking of two particular stories that Jesus talked about:
1. The Good Samaritan...Luke 10
2. The final judgment...Matthew 25
Both stories contain the accounts of people who had done the right thing by being prepared with what was needed at the time; medicine, money, compassion, friendship, food, water, clothing and the basic needs of life. Both stories have Jesus applauding those who were prepared for the task they found themselves in. He even went so far as to say that as they used their compassion and resources for those around them, they were actually using them for Him! It really hits home the Greatest Commandment; "love God with all your heart, soul and mind and your neighbor as yourself" and the New Commandment Jesus left His church: "love one another as I have loved you".
In wanting to be prepared, Robin and I are heading to a church planter's basic training. This training is sponsored by ARC (The Association of Related Churches) and is in Little Rock, AR and is seven days of intense unpacking of the things it is going to take to organize and establish Branches Church as a new congregation. It sheds light on what it takes to be prepared to have the best launch day we possibly can and what to expect during our first year as a new church in our community. We also have our Church Planter Assessment this month in Atlanta. It consists of a two day interview with ARC on our ministry, our game plan, our gifts and fit, the core team, Branches financial state, and how ARC can come alongside and help. Be prepared. It's a good motto. It's a lot of work and commitment. It's worth it.
I heard a story today about two farmers. They both prayed for rain at the beginning of the season but none was falling. One went out and plowed his dry field and the other waited for it to rain before he did his work...which one was living in faith? Be prepared. It's a good motto.
Mike
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Sunday Night Bonfire
Hi everyone,
Branches Church has been invited over to the Knipfer's house Sunday night, October 11th at 5:30 - ? for a bonfire/hot dog roast. The dogs, buns, and drinks will be provided, just bring a dish to pass, a camp chair, and maybe a blanket!
Not having our regular Conference Center space avaiable to meet in this weekend makes this an excellent opportunity for fun, fellowship, and friendship as we continue to encourage one another and grow in our journey as we are developing our new church.
For directions or questions e-mail me at mrmdshay@hotmail.com
Mike
Branches Church has been invited over to the Knipfer's house Sunday night, October 11th at 5:30 - ? for a bonfire/hot dog roast. The dogs, buns, and drinks will be provided, just bring a dish to pass, a camp chair, and maybe a blanket!
Not having our regular Conference Center space avaiable to meet in this weekend makes this an excellent opportunity for fun, fellowship, and friendship as we continue to encourage one another and grow in our journey as we are developing our new church.
For directions or questions e-mail me at mrmdshay@hotmail.com
Mike
Monday, October 5, 2009
What a welcoming and accepting atmosphere filled the air as people were gathering into Branches first service together! The facility was terrific, the smiles were contagious, and the coffee hit the spot.
Trevin and the worship team did a great job leading us in worship with purpose and the children were whooping it up in the kids room with Ernie and the team as the kids tried to describe God through games, drawings, and object lessons!
Thanks to everyone who was praying for us...from New Mexico to Florida, Chicago to MPLS and the churches in Menomonie! God is growing His Kingdom!
As we talk about how important knowing our own story, or journey is, we are becoming aware that the pain and successes, the joys and burdens, the trials and triumphs of our own life can be used to walk with others demonstrating the patience of the good Samaritan and as bearers of good news of the mission and message of Jesus Christ. Redemption and Life.
Remember, no service on the 11th of October - see you on the 18th!!
Mike
Trevin and the worship team did a great job leading us in worship with purpose and the children were whooping it up in the kids room with Ernie and the team as the kids tried to describe God through games, drawings, and object lessons!
Thanks to everyone who was praying for us...from New Mexico to Florida, Chicago to MPLS and the churches in Menomonie! God is growing His Kingdom!
As we talk about how important knowing our own story, or journey is, we are becoming aware that the pain and successes, the joys and burdens, the trials and triumphs of our own life can be used to walk with others demonstrating the patience of the good Samaritan and as bearers of good news of the mission and message of Jesus Christ. Redemption and Life.
Remember, no service on the 11th of October - see you on the 18th!!
Mike
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
This Sunday, October 4th, 2009 is our first group get together! 9am at the Conference Center in the Econolodge in North Menomonie. The coffee will be on and we will begin our unofficial gatherings as Branches Church.
We've been putting together our By-Laws, finances, leadership, and legal paperwork. We've heard from ARC and Robin and I will be attending a church planters basic training and assessment ASAP.
Going through the book 'No Perfect people Allowed' is stretching some of us, but it's up to us to create the DNA of our church culture from the start. If we leave out the intentionality of creating a come as you are culture, the way we do church will fall into what we are all used to - and we'll end up just like everyone else. We want to offer the gospel of Jesus to people right where people are at in life. Everyone has a story, you and I included, and we need to let those stories unfold and identify strategic mile markers where God has been at work in the midst of our daily lives!
So, see you all on Sunday!
Mike
We've been putting together our By-Laws, finances, leadership, and legal paperwork. We've heard from ARC and Robin and I will be attending a church planters basic training and assessment ASAP.
Going through the book 'No Perfect people Allowed' is stretching some of us, but it's up to us to create the DNA of our church culture from the start. If we leave out the intentionality of creating a come as you are culture, the way we do church will fall into what we are all used to - and we'll end up just like everyone else. We want to offer the gospel of Jesus to people right where people are at in life. Everyone has a story, you and I included, and we need to let those stories unfold and identify strategic mile markers where God has been at work in the midst of our daily lives!
So, see you all on Sunday!
Mike
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Growing up Healthy
I was remembering that Jesus taught that unless we become like little children we will not see the kingdom of God. The Apostle Paul said, "When I was a child, my speech, feelings, and thinking were all those of a child; now that I am an adult, I have no more use for childish ways." So I began pondering the difference between child-like and childish.
To me, child-like holds a connotation to pure, simple, trusting, healthy, whole, safe, ever wondering, ever learning, in awe, protected, inquisitive, relational, and growing. But, childish conjures images of temper tantrums, selfishness, anger, envy, it's all about me, immature, inappropriate, and unhealthy.
I see there are two ways in which we can live for and represent Jesus to those around us - childish or child-like. And everyday each one of us determines which way that flows. We have that same choice to make everyday over and over, every conversation, every disappointment, every phone call, every time we're faced with uncertainty, every time we're cut off on the freeway, every time we're feeling overwhelmed, every time we get it right and every time we get it wrong. I believe the key is to realize we have no more use for childish ways as we intentionally set our life toward growth and maturity in relationship to Christ Himself and His purposes for our lives. But growth and maturity doesn't come easy. There are a lot of life's lessons to be learned out there.
I don't believe we can grow our spiritual lives in a healthy, child-like manner if we are banking on the 'things we do' to get us closer to God. Things like going to church, doing good deeds, holding on to traditions, or our family's heritage. Healthy growth, whether you're a child in a family or a follower of Jesus, comes from whose we are and how we are provided for and the opportunities that are set before us to stimulate and challenge us mentally, physically, and spiritually.
So at Branches Church, we will intentionally set our activities and relationships toward healthy growth. Not from the things we do or how nice we can be, but in realizing who we belong to and that He is for us..." I am sure that God, who began this work in you, will carry it on until it is finished..." - Philippians 1:6. That sounds like maturity to me; where God does the growing in me. I know I can't get over the 'childishness' sometimes and need His guidance and reassurance that I'm on track. His grace and love are sufficient!
Mike
To me, child-like holds a connotation to pure, simple, trusting, healthy, whole, safe, ever wondering, ever learning, in awe, protected, inquisitive, relational, and growing. But, childish conjures images of temper tantrums, selfishness, anger, envy, it's all about me, immature, inappropriate, and unhealthy.
I see there are two ways in which we can live for and represent Jesus to those around us - childish or child-like. And everyday each one of us determines which way that flows. We have that same choice to make everyday over and over, every conversation, every disappointment, every phone call, every time we're faced with uncertainty, every time we're cut off on the freeway, every time we're feeling overwhelmed, every time we get it right and every time we get it wrong. I believe the key is to realize we have no more use for childish ways as we intentionally set our life toward growth and maturity in relationship to Christ Himself and His purposes for our lives. But growth and maturity doesn't come easy. There are a lot of life's lessons to be learned out there.
I don't believe we can grow our spiritual lives in a healthy, child-like manner if we are banking on the 'things we do' to get us closer to God. Things like going to church, doing good deeds, holding on to traditions, or our family's heritage. Healthy growth, whether you're a child in a family or a follower of Jesus, comes from whose we are and how we are provided for and the opportunities that are set before us to stimulate and challenge us mentally, physically, and spiritually.
So at Branches Church, we will intentionally set our activities and relationships toward healthy growth. Not from the things we do or how nice we can be, but in realizing who we belong to and that He is for us..." I am sure that God, who began this work in you, will carry it on until it is finished..." - Philippians 1:6. That sounds like maturity to me; where God does the growing in me. I know I can't get over the 'childishness' sometimes and need His guidance and reassurance that I'm on track. His grace and love are sufficient!
Mike
Friday, September 11, 2009
On your mark, get set...
This being the first of many blogs for Branches Church, I have to remember that although we are excited about the vision and plans for the future of our church, we are still lining up to the starting mark. We have much work to do in the next three months. We are praying, talking together, recruiting workers, asking a lot of questions, looking for space to meet and how to use it to our best advantage. We've been working with people who have done this kind of thing before and getting their advice as well as rounding up resources. God bless us, everyone!
The most important thing we can do right now is to immerse ourselves into community with each other and continually reinforce the "come as you are" culture we want to create. As we've discovered, people are keeping church, religion, and ultimately Jesus at arms length, so we want to be prepared to meet them as they are, which can be hard for many of us. We're used to people trying to clean up their act before they come to church. We're used to putting on a "happy face" before we "do" Sunday morning with others. We cannot be offended or afraid of holding each other to the task of being accepting, loving, and nurturing. Jesus spent most of his time with people on the streets (in real life) and He championed them and their desire to be redeemed, made whole, fed, and have their questions answered. We will hold to this same mind that was in Christ.
We've been asking, "Why can't church be different?" It can if we do it like Jesus did. We must be willing to defend the vision for Branches "come as you are" culture with everything we've got. Not just "doing church", but "being the church" is the ultimate expression of Christ in the real world today.
Let's go!
Mike
The most important thing we can do right now is to immerse ourselves into community with each other and continually reinforce the "come as you are" culture we want to create. As we've discovered, people are keeping church, religion, and ultimately Jesus at arms length, so we want to be prepared to meet them as they are, which can be hard for many of us. We're used to people trying to clean up their act before they come to church. We're used to putting on a "happy face" before we "do" Sunday morning with others. We cannot be offended or afraid of holding each other to the task of being accepting, loving, and nurturing. Jesus spent most of his time with people on the streets (in real life) and He championed them and their desire to be redeemed, made whole, fed, and have their questions answered. We will hold to this same mind that was in Christ.
We've been asking, "Why can't church be different?" It can if we do it like Jesus did. We must be willing to defend the vision for Branches "come as you are" culture with everything we've got. Not just "doing church", but "being the church" is the ultimate expression of Christ in the real world today.
Let's go!
Mike
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