Merry Christmas everyone! I am thankful for those who come to "thewalk" and follow me on my journey in this life. I am blessed to be following Jesus and to have such awesome people in my life to help me, encourage me and to pray for me. I thank each and every one of you. For me, Christmas is more about celebrating what Jesus has done for us and not so much about the presents. It means a lot to me to share my life and my heart with others and I fully enjoyed our time together with my family this morning opening gifts, having a few moments with my girls and then some time with another sweet and dear family for most of the day. I am thankful for that time together today and all the phone calls and text messages from everyone. Lord as I sit and take a moment to thank you and celebrate your birthday - I am humbled by what you are doing in my life. Last night on stage for our Christmas Eve service will be a milestone to look back on and see the steps I am taking with you. A few years ago I would never have been able to close such a special service like that down in prayer but today I am able to do that. I thank You for where my heart is Lord and as I continue to focus this day on others ... I become smaller and you become bigger. That is for me Lord where I need to have my focus. Thank You with all I have.
I will share Luke 2: today because God sent His son for all of us... not just for me, your neighbor or even for you. He sent Jesus for all people and from all walks of life. Celebrating You today Jesus. May we each live our lives to honor and bring you praise. Thank you for each of the blessings and gifts shared today.
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
1-5About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David's town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.
6-7While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
An Event for Everyone
8-12There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger."
13-14At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises: Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
15-18As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. "Let's get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us." They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
19-20Mary kept all these things to herself, holding them dear, deep within herself. The sheepherders returned and let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen. It turned out exactly the way they'd been told!
Merry Christmas everyone!
With love and peace,
Lonnie Carol and Kyle
Friday, December 25, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
My first day of winter break and off work for 2009 was spent serving others at the Christmas Center with a good handful of "MyKids". It was a great day serving the families that we have spent hours reaching out to with the Angel Tree program over the last few years and it was such a blessing at the end of the day just being tired from running all day. A fun time after for lunch at sky in the pie pizza in uptown Charlotte and some fun smiles shared after exploring uptown ... not too often we get up there. Last night we got to spend some time as some of our family came together to share in Kates Christmas. It was new for her as she has never done anything like that in sharing gifts and all ... it was a night full of smiles and laughs for sure. Blessings are starting to come and I am so thankful for that.... it has been a long road of trying, prayer and example but things are coming together.
Last night one of "MyKids" shared with me Deuteronomy 15:10 in the way of a Bible book mark and it read : 10 Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.
On it reads - "You serve the Lord OUR God so Faithfully" - she read this to me and it brought tears to my eyes because this came from the heart and this is what she thinks of me. I don't even have words to express that ... other than completely being humble. I am so blessed to be doing life with such awesome young people who God has put in my care and I take this role so dear to me. Those words mean speak volumes .........
I wanted to share this evening a song that I looked over my Ipod the last few months and sorted by how many times I have played. I was a little surprised but I do know it is one of my favorite songs.... I hope its one of yours: They played this last YCI meeting and I almost had to leave the room. Mom ..... you continue to speak to me and I am so thankful for you. I miss you...
Take time this Christmas to tell someone you love them. Holding back does not produce anything and they just may need to hear those words.
Chris Tomlin : I will Rise
There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"Jesus has overcome And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
[Chorus:]
And I will rise when He calls my name No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees And rise
I will rise
There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light And the shadows disappear And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won He is risen from the dead
[Chorus:]
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees And rise I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
Last night one of "MyKids" shared with me Deuteronomy 15:10 in the way of a Bible book mark and it read : 10 Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.
On it reads - "You serve the Lord OUR God so Faithfully" - she read this to me and it brought tears to my eyes because this came from the heart and this is what she thinks of me. I don't even have words to express that ... other than completely being humble. I am so blessed to be doing life with such awesome young people who God has put in my care and I take this role so dear to me. Those words mean speak volumes .........
I wanted to share this evening a song that I looked over my Ipod the last few months and sorted by how many times I have played. I was a little surprised but I do know it is one of my favorite songs.... I hope its one of yours: They played this last YCI meeting and I almost had to leave the room. Mom ..... you continue to speak to me and I am so thankful for you. I miss you...
Take time this Christmas to tell someone you love them. Holding back does not produce anything and they just may need to hear those words.
Chris Tomlin : I will Rise
There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"Jesus has overcome And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
[Chorus:]
And I will rise when He calls my name No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees And rise
I will rise
There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light And the shadows disappear And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won He is risen from the dead
[Chorus:]
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees And rise I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
Monday, December 21, 2009
1 more day.....
Well, actually a few more hours really and I will be done with work for 2009. It has been a good year, a year that God has grown me and challenged me in many things. God has blessed my family and I and I have felt Him as close as I ever have in my life. I look forward to mywalk in 2010 and the families and students that will come and go in my life. Its exciting for sure serving God and His people - still its hard to believe at times and I feel so unworthy of the capacity that He is using me.
Carol's birthday was yesterday - she has finally caught up to me in years even though she looks a LOT younger than I do. Good plug huh? Hey its been awhile since I saved up some brownie points... I am usually driving her crazy and I admit at times, I don't spend enough time with her with everything that is going on. Life does have its busy and needy moments thats for sure but I try to manage and handle it all and I know that the things in my life are from God. The families we are doing life with and the young people I am doing life with are not here by accident and they have meaning, purpose and are all part of Gods plan to not only shape them but also to shape me. They show me Jesus as much as I show them Jesus... maybe even more so on their part! We had a small birthday party for her last night and totally surprised her even though she made a few announcements that she has never been surprised... I just have to shake my head because I have got her a LOT over the years...... LOL - anyways, lots of good smiles, kids got to hang out together and it was fun time.
Tomorrow- Kyle, Morgan and I -not sure who else is going - are headed to the Salvation Army to help with Distribution day. Its a day where the families come - 200 an hour- and sign in, get in line to get their gifts and stocking stuffers and then a chance to spin the big wheel to win a bike. It is a day that last year was hard for me to hold back the emotions because these families need help and experience a blessing of Christmas and having the chance for their children to have a present to open is just amazing. I got to walk and talk with a 3 families last year in my short stay there.... and get to know them a little as we walked through the line, getting the gifts and then out to their vehicles.... it is something to share for sure. I am really pumped about this and look forward to talking with Kyle and Morgan and who ever else.... at lunch about it. We will then head uptown Charlotte and see the Christmas tree and what ever else the afternoon brings.
I wanted to share Psalm 119 today ... it is a LONG piece of scripture but I wanted to share a small part of it. It really spoke to me this morning ...
Psalm 119:105
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
Lord as this year begins to wind down, the gifts are all under the tree and we come together to celebrate You for Christmas - may you guide us Lord with your light in the paths that we need to be on in this life. If our paths are off today Lord in our walk ... help us get back to where we need to be. Surround us with the people that can guide us, that have our best interests at heart and I pray Lord that those that are with us, our families and dear friends, that they too will walk in Your light. Together we can make an impact and not feel isolated and alone - especially during this season. Help us focus on celebrating LIFE Lord, Your life in us.... we thank You for Your son Jesus its because of Him we have all we need. I pray all this in Jesus name,
Amen
Lonnie~
Carol's birthday was yesterday - she has finally caught up to me in years even though she looks a LOT younger than I do. Good plug huh? Hey its been awhile since I saved up some brownie points... I am usually driving her crazy and I admit at times, I don't spend enough time with her with everything that is going on. Life does have its busy and needy moments thats for sure but I try to manage and handle it all and I know that the things in my life are from God. The families we are doing life with and the young people I am doing life with are not here by accident and they have meaning, purpose and are all part of Gods plan to not only shape them but also to shape me. They show me Jesus as much as I show them Jesus... maybe even more so on their part! We had a small birthday party for her last night and totally surprised her even though she made a few announcements that she has never been surprised... I just have to shake my head because I have got her a LOT over the years...... LOL - anyways, lots of good smiles, kids got to hang out together and it was fun time.
Tomorrow- Kyle, Morgan and I -not sure who else is going - are headed to the Salvation Army to help with Distribution day. Its a day where the families come - 200 an hour- and sign in, get in line to get their gifts and stocking stuffers and then a chance to spin the big wheel to win a bike. It is a day that last year was hard for me to hold back the emotions because these families need help and experience a blessing of Christmas and having the chance for their children to have a present to open is just amazing. I got to walk and talk with a 3 families last year in my short stay there.... and get to know them a little as we walked through the line, getting the gifts and then out to their vehicles.... it is something to share for sure. I am really pumped about this and look forward to talking with Kyle and Morgan and who ever else.... at lunch about it. We will then head uptown Charlotte and see the Christmas tree and what ever else the afternoon brings.
I wanted to share Psalm 119 today ... it is a LONG piece of scripture but I wanted to share a small part of it. It really spoke to me this morning ...
Psalm 119:105
105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
Lord as this year begins to wind down, the gifts are all under the tree and we come together to celebrate You for Christmas - may you guide us Lord with your light in the paths that we need to be on in this life. If our paths are off today Lord in our walk ... help us get back to where we need to be. Surround us with the people that can guide us, that have our best interests at heart and I pray Lord that those that are with us, our families and dear friends, that they too will walk in Your light. Together we can make an impact and not feel isolated and alone - especially during this season. Help us focus on celebrating LIFE Lord, Your life in us.... we thank You for Your son Jesus its because of Him we have all we need. I pray all this in Jesus name,
Amen
Lonnie~
Thursday, December 17, 2009
All that I am......
I have been walking pretty close with a few families over the past couple years and have had countless experiences with students from church, in school, college students here on campus, "MyKids" and so many others that have shared things in their life where I just want to be able to fix things and make things right. I have often times struggled with those feelings. Feelings of not knowing what to say or what to do. Thoughts that keep me up at night trying to figure out how I could make things better or change the outcome of their struggles. Times of how do I gather the energy up to do what is on my heart to do? Add on top of all I am going through in life with myself and my own family and you can just see how complicated it gets, how overwhelming it can feel and sometimes I feel like I can't do anything right or not enough of what people think I need to be doing or not doing. Life in ministry is tough. God never said this was going to be easy and when we make a decision to fight for those around us, to shine for Jesus and walk with others to be their "Balcony" person .... Satan comes at you and attacks... he gets to your family, he gets to your wife/husband and children, he knows us and he knows how to get to us.
One of the things I am learning through all this is - God is not leaving me here where I am at, He is teaching me through all this, and most importantly - I don't have to have all the answers. Being the Waffle that I am - I want to fix stuff - its a guy thing but sometimes fixing is not part of the solution.
I would not be a good steward in following Jesus if I was pointing people to myself. I have to be there to listen, to walk with, to be authentically available, and simply guide those around me, my family, friends, MyKids, students at church and whoever else - to their potential in Christ. I also have to recruit some trusted adults to help me do this because I can't do this alone. I have to have the blessings of my wife Carol in order for me to lead in our home and all who come to our home. I have to have the blessings of parents if I am to reach to their children. There is a LOT at stake here and there is nothing more important than a persons salvation nor nothing more important than a word or conversation at the right time, in the right context, with the correct motives to show a person that they are important and that they matter to God....
God loves us right where we are (in life) but there is more to it than that. He uses us as we are but He also uses us in who we will become. God is not done with your story and everything in your life is part of Him shaping and molding you. We must simply give Him our all. God, what are you wanting to do through me? Who are you shaping me to be? Are you a person of dreams, infinite possibility and promise? God sees you that way no matter if you see yourself that way or not.
I look around me today and see myself cheering on so many from the balcony of life. See there are 3 types of people in your life. You have the audience - the people in life taking up room. They are in your classes, at your work, at the ballgames, at the mall walking around but they are just people. Maybe you say hey maybe not. Maybe you know them maybe not. They are going about their life and interaction is minimal. You also have basement people - those are the people who are always negative, they drag you down, they steer you to themselves and have only themselves to think about. These are people who snub you when they are around a different crowd. These folks would turn on you when you needed them, they talk about you behind your back and these kinds of relationships usually are one sided. Pleasing them usually means you being unhappy, confused and often times hurt. Then you have the Balcony people -these are people that are cheering you on in life. They have the CAN DO attitude and can't is not part of their vocabulary. They encourage you and speak high levels of promise in you. They are the ones when you see them and you say to yourself - "I hope they have time for me today". They are the ones that lead you in truth, they are always asking what they could do for you, they bring you through the tough places and they shine so bright and you can't get enough of them because they are honest and have your best interest at heart. Jesus pours from them and life is exciting because life steps up.
So as I continue "mywalk" with student ministry, family ministry and lead my family, MyKids and others ... I don't have to fix, I don't have to have the answers, I dont have to feel unable to help or change anything - all I have to do is point them to Jesus. Help them realize the potential for them with God. Its not so much who we are today but who we are to become.
Thankful and blessed - for my conversations this week where I didn't have the words nor the answers but put in a place to just listen because I felt incapable of sharing some level of wisdom or something insightful. God then shows me His way ..... and I am thankful He did.
All that I am from the balcony for you,
Lonnie
One of the things I am learning through all this is - God is not leaving me here where I am at, He is teaching me through all this, and most importantly - I don't have to have all the answers. Being the Waffle that I am - I want to fix stuff - its a guy thing but sometimes fixing is not part of the solution.
I would not be a good steward in following Jesus if I was pointing people to myself. I have to be there to listen, to walk with, to be authentically available, and simply guide those around me, my family, friends, MyKids, students at church and whoever else - to their potential in Christ. I also have to recruit some trusted adults to help me do this because I can't do this alone. I have to have the blessings of my wife Carol in order for me to lead in our home and all who come to our home. I have to have the blessings of parents if I am to reach to their children. There is a LOT at stake here and there is nothing more important than a persons salvation nor nothing more important than a word or conversation at the right time, in the right context, with the correct motives to show a person that they are important and that they matter to God....
God loves us right where we are (in life) but there is more to it than that. He uses us as we are but He also uses us in who we will become. God is not done with your story and everything in your life is part of Him shaping and molding you. We must simply give Him our all. God, what are you wanting to do through me? Who are you shaping me to be? Are you a person of dreams, infinite possibility and promise? God sees you that way no matter if you see yourself that way or not.
I look around me today and see myself cheering on so many from the balcony of life. See there are 3 types of people in your life. You have the audience - the people in life taking up room. They are in your classes, at your work, at the ballgames, at the mall walking around but they are just people. Maybe you say hey maybe not. Maybe you know them maybe not. They are going about their life and interaction is minimal. You also have basement people - those are the people who are always negative, they drag you down, they steer you to themselves and have only themselves to think about. These are people who snub you when they are around a different crowd. These folks would turn on you when you needed them, they talk about you behind your back and these kinds of relationships usually are one sided. Pleasing them usually means you being unhappy, confused and often times hurt. Then you have the Balcony people -these are people that are cheering you on in life. They have the CAN DO attitude and can't is not part of their vocabulary. They encourage you and speak high levels of promise in you. They are the ones when you see them and you say to yourself - "I hope they have time for me today". They are the ones that lead you in truth, they are always asking what they could do for you, they bring you through the tough places and they shine so bright and you can't get enough of them because they are honest and have your best interest at heart. Jesus pours from them and life is exciting because life steps up.
So as I continue "mywalk" with student ministry, family ministry and lead my family, MyKids and others ... I don't have to fix, I don't have to have the answers, I dont have to feel unable to help or change anything - all I have to do is point them to Jesus. Help them realize the potential for them with God. Its not so much who we are today but who we are to become.
Thankful and blessed - for my conversations this week where I didn't have the words nor the answers but put in a place to just listen because I felt incapable of sharing some level of wisdom or something insightful. God then shows me His way ..... and I am thankful He did.
All that I am from the balcony for you,
Lonnie
Monday, December 14, 2009
Monday morning......
I was in bed last night at 9:15. Long day yesterday and one that was jam packed with things to do. Yesterday I got to do something that I have never done before. They say that there are 2 things that are our greatest fears - Heights and public speaking. Well, I got to tackle one of those yesterday and I am still scared of heights and vertigo at times doesn't help that but thats another story. About a month or so ago our Pastor to students and families asked me to pray about yesterday and preaching in the student ministry. I agreed right on the spot because I have felt in my heart for a long time this calling to do that. I know that is what God has called me to do with walking along side the students that He has trusted me with. It all began a few years ago when I walked into my first sunday school class because Carol continued to beg me and beg me to go with her. I was hooked since that day but it was a day that God had been building in me for some time before that. I can place blame on Donna for that -I pick at her all the time and I am so very thankful for you Donna - for letting me come into your classroom and experience the kids and God took my heart from there. All part of His perfect plan and the students and children I am doing life with today - I see them all as world changers and difference makers. I see so many of them taking their lights and shining in their dark places in their life. It is hard work at times, exhausting at times and its a ministry calling of extremes. But there is also extreme joy in all of it. Yesterday I got to teach from Luke 24. Its a story of the how Jesus walks along side His disciples after they were leaving town and walking along the side of the road. Jesus had been killed and placed in the tomb and all their hope and dreams were gone. All they heard about all their lives - a king that would come and rescue them and their people. They knew him as a friend and as their king - Jesus. Now with all hope gone, the long road to walk back home .... talking to themselves about what just happened and what they were going to do now. Jesus, without them noticing who He was..... walks up and looks over their shoulders. He checks in on our lives - he is in those text messages and phone calls, he is in those high school parties that maybe we shouldn't be at, he is in those relationships that are no good for us and leading us to a place we shouldn't be, he is in those football huddles, he is in the quiet times when nobody is looking.... he comes along side of us when life happens and we don't see it coming. When we are waiting on the test results, and during the loss of a parent, son or daughter. He is with us when we don't see him or feel him at all.......
With 42 students and leaders in the room ... it was a pretty awesome experience for me to bring them Gods word from my heart. A couple small video clips to help deliver the message and a call at the end that God prompted me to ask while we were praying to have the students look at me who need prayers this week because of something they are struggling with. MANY looked up at me and it almost brings tears to my eyes thinking about it right now as I looked at each one of them.
Mom - I never dreamed I would be doing this. I never dreamed God would be using me like this. I never dreamed my life would be revolving so much around God and have this burn in my chest for the students and their families that I am doing life with. There is no higher calling than this and I often just have to sit back and be completely amazed. Mom, through your cancer, it has brought me to this place. God's perfect place and plan. I pray I can continue to impact those around me for Jesus not just in a preaching way but also in a doing way - a faith that has actions behind it. An impact as we minister together to a family in need, as we give out soccer balls this coming Saturday, as we feed the homeless and work at the Christmas center.
There is nothing more important than their relationship with Jesus. Life comes at us and often times we don't see it coming. Your life was that way mom - we just didn't see it coming. Instead of asking why me ..... one valuable lesson I have learned over the years is seeking God in my struggles and asking "What is it Lord you want me to learn through this?".
I want to thank Carol for coming down and checking on me before the students got there. Carol you give up so much and are still adjusting to all that God is doing. We often times are running all over the place and burning the candles at both ends. I love you so much and I just couldn't do any of this without your support. We give up a lot of time to minister to "OurKids" and its not just limited to Sundays.... every day there is ministry work taking place as we love on those around us and in doing so .... we are making a difference! Our home is a safe zone - one where they can come and smile, share things, experience a love for them and feel God at work.
I want to thank Morgan for coming with me yesterday to the early service which she often times does. I think I would have been really nervous if I was in the classroom by myself for those 30 minutes before hand. I am thankful that we got to talk and share some laughs and for always encouraging me. I want to thank Kyle for always telling me I did a good job.... and always for his encouraging words and prayers. Thanks to the leaders in the room yesterday for telling me I did good and it was a message that they too needed to hear and that they felt it...... I also want to thank Pastor Travis for trusting me in leading. I sometimes have no idea what I am doing or what to do next but I am so pumped for what is ahead man. God has us moving forward on many things as we reach out to our students. I am so excited to be a part of this!!!
We got to celebrate Joe Bagley's life yesterday at his memorial service. I am in awe of his family and the life he has lead following Jesus. His life is an amazing testimony and it was amazing to see so many of his church friends and his family there. You could just feel the love in the room for an amazing man, an amazing husband, an amazing father, an amazing friend and an amazing follower of Jesus. I will always cherish our sunset conversation Joe. I know with all my heart that conversation took place for a reason. A reason to pause our life and just take in those still moments in time where heaven and earth come together and God paints an amazing tapestry of colors and scenery. I'll see you again my friend.
As I look around the office this morning. I see lots of pictures and notes .... Our lives are meant to be lived so big and so full of life. I am just very thankful this morning for what God is doing in me, through me and for my close peeps in my life that I get to share so much with. I am so blessed to be doing this together.
Lonnie~
With 42 students and leaders in the room ... it was a pretty awesome experience for me to bring them Gods word from my heart. A couple small video clips to help deliver the message and a call at the end that God prompted me to ask while we were praying to have the students look at me who need prayers this week because of something they are struggling with. MANY looked up at me and it almost brings tears to my eyes thinking about it right now as I looked at each one of them.
Mom - I never dreamed I would be doing this. I never dreamed God would be using me like this. I never dreamed my life would be revolving so much around God and have this burn in my chest for the students and their families that I am doing life with. There is no higher calling than this and I often just have to sit back and be completely amazed. Mom, through your cancer, it has brought me to this place. God's perfect place and plan. I pray I can continue to impact those around me for Jesus not just in a preaching way but also in a doing way - a faith that has actions behind it. An impact as we minister together to a family in need, as we give out soccer balls this coming Saturday, as we feed the homeless and work at the Christmas center.
There is nothing more important than their relationship with Jesus. Life comes at us and often times we don't see it coming. Your life was that way mom - we just didn't see it coming. Instead of asking why me ..... one valuable lesson I have learned over the years is seeking God in my struggles and asking "What is it Lord you want me to learn through this?".
I want to thank Carol for coming down and checking on me before the students got there. Carol you give up so much and are still adjusting to all that God is doing. We often times are running all over the place and burning the candles at both ends. I love you so much and I just couldn't do any of this without your support. We give up a lot of time to minister to "OurKids" and its not just limited to Sundays.... every day there is ministry work taking place as we love on those around us and in doing so .... we are making a difference! Our home is a safe zone - one where they can come and smile, share things, experience a love for them and feel God at work.
I want to thank Morgan for coming with me yesterday to the early service which she often times does. I think I would have been really nervous if I was in the classroom by myself for those 30 minutes before hand. I am thankful that we got to talk and share some laughs and for always encouraging me. I want to thank Kyle for always telling me I did a good job.... and always for his encouraging words and prayers. Thanks to the leaders in the room yesterday for telling me I did good and it was a message that they too needed to hear and that they felt it...... I also want to thank Pastor Travis for trusting me in leading. I sometimes have no idea what I am doing or what to do next but I am so pumped for what is ahead man. God has us moving forward on many things as we reach out to our students. I am so excited to be a part of this!!!
We got to celebrate Joe Bagley's life yesterday at his memorial service. I am in awe of his family and the life he has lead following Jesus. His life is an amazing testimony and it was amazing to see so many of his church friends and his family there. You could just feel the love in the room for an amazing man, an amazing husband, an amazing father, an amazing friend and an amazing follower of Jesus. I will always cherish our sunset conversation Joe. I know with all my heart that conversation took place for a reason. A reason to pause our life and just take in those still moments in time where heaven and earth come together and God paints an amazing tapestry of colors and scenery. I'll see you again my friend.
As I look around the office this morning. I see lots of pictures and notes .... Our lives are meant to be lived so big and so full of life. I am just very thankful this morning for what God is doing in me, through me and for my close peeps in my life that I get to share so much with. I am so blessed to be doing this together.
Lonnie~
Friday, December 11, 2009
A few updates~
Happy Friday everyone! Thankful to be winding down a busy week and this evening - I think as a family we are going to get the Christmas tree down and get it decorated. Nothing else planned and that is a good thing. Yes downtime, a little extra sleep and some quiet time is not a sign of weakness or just unplugging but a time to refresh, regroup, refocus and this waffle sure needs some time in my "nothing" box.
Last Wednesday we had 44 folks go to the Angel Tree Program through the Salvation Army. Shelley as usual did a great job explaining the process, what we do and the outreach importance into the community that this organization does. The students are excited to be serving and having fun while doing so and that is such an awesome thing to witness. We adopted as a church 25 Angels and we only have like 11 left for Sunday services but that is still 25 children we will be touching this Christmas through our church. Its personal and it puts our faith in action and that is what its all about. Great time for sure... will be headed back to drop gifts off on Tuesday evening - hoping to have a few students to come along as well as a few parents to help drive. Distribution days in 2 weeks is something to see for sure. I am really excited to be there again this year.
There is something that has been on my heart the last few days. I almost posted it yesterday but wanted to give Kyle his due on "thewalk" in case someone didn't know it was his birthday and all. We did head to Red Lobster last night with a dear family we are close with and he tore open some seafood. The young man can eat thats for sure. He didn't want to go to bed last night because he said it would be the end to his birthday and a great day! I am happy about that~
I am going to spill my heart here for a few minutes. I will say the word "She" but I think this applies to that son in your life, that student if you are a leader so put the context in place so that it makes sense for you. I am using "She" because there is someone who this is for but it is applied to all of "MyKids" and its something I am passionate about as I walk with so many. Hope it does for you as well.
There is a fine art to being authentically available to a young person who might want to talk to you about what is troubling them. It is something like this that keeps me asking, keeps me praying for opportunity and searching for a way for them to communicate no matter how big or small. These moments and opportunities keep me up at night. I had this conversation just this morning about that moment that God calls us home - we never know when that may be so I tell "mykids" that I love them and that I am proud of them every chance I get. I want them to know that and if it is that time - then they won't ever have to wonder about it because I have told them many times. There won't be any doubt what so ever. In order to open this communication line of course, they have to know that you love them and value them. Otherwise, they could not afford to tell you how they really feel about anything important. (small talk to pass time really bugs me just so you know) Even as adults, we rarely confide in anyone we may think does not truly care about us right? Our students and our children are no different. I also think that most of us wont open up to people who pry either. So there is a fine line to asking questions, talking from the heart and what is really on our hearts and minds. We have to be available but we also have to give them space and respect if the time is not right or that trust has not been fully established yet. Communication flows freely when students/children and leaders/parents feel safe and secure with each other.
Teenagers, adults and young children often need to be able to spill out deeper anxieties and fears. Without these safety valves, emotional tensions and stress can rise to such levels that something has to give. If you are a parent, a leader or that trusted role model ~ the right words and conversation not only can help ventilate the mind and hearts and diminish fear and anguish of the spirit, but also can mend and heal. SO much is packed into even those small and quick conversations. You don't need to wait for that big event, or the perfect place and time for that big conversation on a specific subject - often times, especially in this face pace world of email, twitter, blogs and texting - the small conversations can have the biggest impact on those we love and are trying to reach. Pleasant and relaxing excursions with them can let them see what an intelligent, mature grown up is really like. For those girls - a fatherly figure is so important or a trusted male role model who has their best interest at heart - it is vital for them!! Every girl needs that kind of influence in her life, someone she can talk to, argue with, race at the picnic, be silly with, but also have access to authentic relationship with someone who cares and loves them as an example she can compare to in her life down the road. Boys are the same, they need to have access to a father or male role model to lift them in encouragement, show them how to lead in life, how to treat a lady, to stick with things when things are tough, and also to be compassionate to others - and yes, its even ok to have a softer side that cares and wants to be cared about in return. All these things are worth doing even if you have to make room in your schedule. Let me be honest here and it is why I do so much with "mykids" and sometimes to the point where I am probably over extending myself at times but I know deep in my heart that - they are growing up just as swiftly as I am adding years to myself. Waiting until next year or the year after that will only find them a year older, me a year older, and that much less inclined to talk with you, go swimming with you, have fun at a picnic, or even go to a concert with. They will find that safety valve else where and that is usually when trouble begins to creep in.
Out of all these experiences come the kind of deep mutual and open relationship and understanding that have kept thousands of daughters, sons and students right minded, trustworthy about sex and dating, even in a world where morals, ethics and character sometimes seem extinct.
Our kids are worth that leadership from you. They are worth your investment. "MyKids" are worth that investment to me. I pour into them with everything I have because maybe, just maybe down the road - they will be different than what society is telling them. Maybe they will be leading their friends and not them being lead by their friends. Maybe they will have a heart for the things that God has a heart for. Maybe down the road it will keep them from making a bad choice that will haunt them for life. Maybe down the road it will lead them to finding their calling in life. Maybe down the road - they will know who they really are and won't let others decide who they are or even who they should hang out with. Maybe down the road they will have confidence in themselves and the word "CAN'T" is not part of their vocabulary.
Authentically available means being there for them when you don't have time, when you have to put aside what you want to do for them, putting them first sometimes over yourself, leading them when sometimes we are scared to death for them (and us), and loving them regardless with a love that is unconditional.
That is where I am today. My time with them is short and is not getting any longer. To me the only thing that will matter 100 years from now after I am long gone is their relationship with Jesus. Did I do everything I could to help them see and experience Jesus? Doesn't matter if I led them there but it does matter what I do with them after they find Him.
I had a phone call on the way home yesterday from one of my students. It was a great conversation that had questions. I got back with her on them and talked through some things. All unexpected, unplanned, and unprompted but by making myself available to talk- even if it meant me pulling over on the side of the road so I could concentrate and focus for 10 minutes - I think it made a lasting impression on a decision. It put some value in that choice without an adult just telling her what to do. She understands now WHY she was making the choice she was making. That is powerful stuff!! What would have been that decision without that conversation? Its not always in the big talks that make the biggest impact.
Colossians 4:2-6
Further Instructions 2Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Lord I continue to ask that you open the doors for those around me who need an ear to talk with or someone to walk along side so that they have a release valve to release the pressures of this life. I pray for those opportunities ahead and ask that You be in those conversations and in every detail that takes place. I continue to ask that You keep me humble Lord, ready to listen and ready to have Your words above my own. I ask that You keep me focused on You Lord and that Your lampstand is sitting in the perfect spot so that they may see Your light Lord. I thank You for using me Lord in such ways and continue to ask for Your blessings and guidance in all I do. Your intentions Lord above my own and may Your name be glorified in all I do.
Its in Jesus name I pray,
Amen
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Last Wednesday we had 44 folks go to the Angel Tree Program through the Salvation Army. Shelley as usual did a great job explaining the process, what we do and the outreach importance into the community that this organization does. The students are excited to be serving and having fun while doing so and that is such an awesome thing to witness. We adopted as a church 25 Angels and we only have like 11 left for Sunday services but that is still 25 children we will be touching this Christmas through our church. Its personal and it puts our faith in action and that is what its all about. Great time for sure... will be headed back to drop gifts off on Tuesday evening - hoping to have a few students to come along as well as a few parents to help drive. Distribution days in 2 weeks is something to see for sure. I am really excited to be there again this year.
There is something that has been on my heart the last few days. I almost posted it yesterday but wanted to give Kyle his due on "thewalk" in case someone didn't know it was his birthday and all. We did head to Red Lobster last night with a dear family we are close with and he tore open some seafood. The young man can eat thats for sure. He didn't want to go to bed last night because he said it would be the end to his birthday and a great day! I am happy about that~
I am going to spill my heart here for a few minutes. I will say the word "She" but I think this applies to that son in your life, that student if you are a leader so put the context in place so that it makes sense for you. I am using "She" because there is someone who this is for but it is applied to all of "MyKids" and its something I am passionate about as I walk with so many. Hope it does for you as well.
There is a fine art to being authentically available to a young person who might want to talk to you about what is troubling them. It is something like this that keeps me asking, keeps me praying for opportunity and searching for a way for them to communicate no matter how big or small. These moments and opportunities keep me up at night. I had this conversation just this morning about that moment that God calls us home - we never know when that may be so I tell "mykids" that I love them and that I am proud of them every chance I get. I want them to know that and if it is that time - then they won't ever have to wonder about it because I have told them many times. There won't be any doubt what so ever. In order to open this communication line of course, they have to know that you love them and value them. Otherwise, they could not afford to tell you how they really feel about anything important. (small talk to pass time really bugs me just so you know) Even as adults, we rarely confide in anyone we may think does not truly care about us right? Our students and our children are no different. I also think that most of us wont open up to people who pry either. So there is a fine line to asking questions, talking from the heart and what is really on our hearts and minds. We have to be available but we also have to give them space and respect if the time is not right or that trust has not been fully established yet. Communication flows freely when students/children and leaders/parents feel safe and secure with each other.
Teenagers, adults and young children often need to be able to spill out deeper anxieties and fears. Without these safety valves, emotional tensions and stress can rise to such levels that something has to give. If you are a parent, a leader or that trusted role model ~ the right words and conversation not only can help ventilate the mind and hearts and diminish fear and anguish of the spirit, but also can mend and heal. SO much is packed into even those small and quick conversations. You don't need to wait for that big event, or the perfect place and time for that big conversation on a specific subject - often times, especially in this face pace world of email, twitter, blogs and texting - the small conversations can have the biggest impact on those we love and are trying to reach. Pleasant and relaxing excursions with them can let them see what an intelligent, mature grown up is really like. For those girls - a fatherly figure is so important or a trusted male role model who has their best interest at heart - it is vital for them!! Every girl needs that kind of influence in her life, someone she can talk to, argue with, race at the picnic, be silly with, but also have access to authentic relationship with someone who cares and loves them as an example she can compare to in her life down the road. Boys are the same, they need to have access to a father or male role model to lift them in encouragement, show them how to lead in life, how to treat a lady, to stick with things when things are tough, and also to be compassionate to others - and yes, its even ok to have a softer side that cares and wants to be cared about in return. All these things are worth doing even if you have to make room in your schedule. Let me be honest here and it is why I do so much with "mykids" and sometimes to the point where I am probably over extending myself at times but I know deep in my heart that - they are growing up just as swiftly as I am adding years to myself. Waiting until next year or the year after that will only find them a year older, me a year older, and that much less inclined to talk with you, go swimming with you, have fun at a picnic, or even go to a concert with. They will find that safety valve else where and that is usually when trouble begins to creep in.
Out of all these experiences come the kind of deep mutual and open relationship and understanding that have kept thousands of daughters, sons and students right minded, trustworthy about sex and dating, even in a world where morals, ethics and character sometimes seem extinct.
Our kids are worth that leadership from you. They are worth your investment. "MyKids" are worth that investment to me. I pour into them with everything I have because maybe, just maybe down the road - they will be different than what society is telling them. Maybe they will be leading their friends and not them being lead by their friends. Maybe they will have a heart for the things that God has a heart for. Maybe down the road it will keep them from making a bad choice that will haunt them for life. Maybe down the road it will lead them to finding their calling in life. Maybe down the road - they will know who they really are and won't let others decide who they are or even who they should hang out with. Maybe down the road they will have confidence in themselves and the word "CAN'T" is not part of their vocabulary.
Authentically available means being there for them when you don't have time, when you have to put aside what you want to do for them, putting them first sometimes over yourself, leading them when sometimes we are scared to death for them (and us), and loving them regardless with a love that is unconditional.
That is where I am today. My time with them is short and is not getting any longer. To me the only thing that will matter 100 years from now after I am long gone is their relationship with Jesus. Did I do everything I could to help them see and experience Jesus? Doesn't matter if I led them there but it does matter what I do with them after they find Him.
I had a phone call on the way home yesterday from one of my students. It was a great conversation that had questions. I got back with her on them and talked through some things. All unexpected, unplanned, and unprompted but by making myself available to talk- even if it meant me pulling over on the side of the road so I could concentrate and focus for 10 minutes - I think it made a lasting impression on a decision. It put some value in that choice without an adult just telling her what to do. She understands now WHY she was making the choice she was making. That is powerful stuff!! What would have been that decision without that conversation? Its not always in the big talks that make the biggest impact.
Colossians 4:2-6
Further Instructions 2Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Lord I continue to ask that you open the doors for those around me who need an ear to talk with or someone to walk along side so that they have a release valve to release the pressures of this life. I pray for those opportunities ahead and ask that You be in those conversations and in every detail that takes place. I continue to ask that You keep me humble Lord, ready to listen and ready to have Your words above my own. I ask that You keep me focused on You Lord and that Your lampstand is sitting in the perfect spot so that they may see Your light Lord. I thank You for using me Lord in such ways and continue to ask for Your blessings and guidance in all I do. Your intentions Lord above my own and may Your name be glorified in all I do.
Its in Jesus name I pray,
Amen
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Thursday, December 10, 2009
12 years ago today .....
I can remember wondering what am I in for as I look back 12 years ago today. Kyle you were planned to be delivered by c-section and that was ok with your mom and me. It was how I was most comfortable. In a few hours your mom and I left for the hospital and our lives were forever changed. Yes I should be sleeping now. Not exactly sure why I can't - especially the last few days but I also had this on my heart to share. 12 years old, middle school student, believer in Jesus Christ and owning your faith, funny man who is always wanting laughs from everyone around you, concerned about everyone and everything - you have so much of your grandma's in you and so much of you momma in you. It has been amazing to watch you grow into the young man that you are today. You have your silly moments for sure as we all do but a good laugh and smile is nothing to not let happen when life is so short and people are so full of drama and being something they are not these days just trying to fit into a certain circle or impress someone. You are genuine man and I am proud of you for that. You OWN your faith and your walk with Jesus in your life is going to be an amazing road for sure. As your earthly dad, I know I have and will continue to let you down but I do love you with all my heart and there is nothing I would not do for you. You are contagious to all those around you - that is why people want to hang with you. Its that smile and funny sense of humor that you have. Shaving cream on Madisons hand a few weeks ago is just that kind of fun that comes out of you.
The other day when we had some time at the gym and then got a bite to eat together - I asked you what you wanted for your birthday. You looked over at me with one of your smiles and I could see you had something on your heart to share - Dad's can tell when something is heavy on their childrens heart.... you told me that you wanted to have a small party but instead of getting gifts - you wanted your friends to give you gift cards so that you could give to a local family that is going through a hard time lately... give so that their children will have a Christmas. Those are things that 12 years old dont do - when they do - they are for sure something special. You get helping and serving people bud. I am so proud of the fact that it has happened early in your life. You understand giving back and serving God with your compassion for others. God is doing amazing things in you Kyle - He has walked close with you over your 12 years with heartbreak with losing both grandma's and a grandpa. Your foundation is for sure rock solid in Gods hands.
The pictures above are just a few of the SO many of the peeps you are doing life with. Great friends who have your back and you have theirs. That is an awesome place to be as you shine your light dear one to illuminate Gods love and grace to the dark areas of your world. This year at school has been a tough one starting out. Not many friends being in a new school and middle school being that age group where so many are making mistakes as they discover themselves, make new friends and begin to understand responsibility and some other big huge things that this life is going to test you on. I pray that you continue to faithful and trusting in God, that you continue to keep a close tight group of friends and that you never lose sight of who you are. You are God child before you are mine. I am so proud of you buddy.... I am already praying for your wife and your future ... you may already know her now or you may not but regardless - God is at the center of your life
IT SHOWS. May God grant me 50 more years to be your earthly dad. If I am proud - imagine how much God is proud of you.
I love you with all my heart son ..... everything I have in me and all I have is yours.
Happy Birthday bud.....
Daddy~
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Angel Tree - Salvation Army
This is a picture of my buddy Joe Bagley a few years ago. Once or twice a year during the Christmas season we all head down to the Christmas Center for the Salvation Army and serve the families there through their Angel Tree Program. What an exerience it is every year - especially for our families who come and serve together and our students who really get the concept that these families we are serving... the children would not otherwise get anything unless they were part of this program. Its an amazing evening for sure. Tonight, in honor of Joe and his family who served so passionatly to this outreach - we will once again head back to Charlotte and be a part of this. My dear friend Shelley makes all kinds of arrangements for us as a church to have our own time there and even spends a few hours of her own time helping us with directions and vision of what actually takes place there in that old Walmart. 1850 bikes for kids will be sent home to children - tons of donated and adopted Angels begin to fill the floor space... it is something to see. I plan on going back this year to check out the pickup days when the families come and get their gifts -many are in tears, many cannot even speak they are so overwhelmed with emotion and when they spin the big wheel to see if they win a bike - its like being on a game show and with each bike win - there is cheering throughout the building. I pray like crazy for this experience to really hit people, especially our children and our teenagers - they have so much and so much to be thankful for. Changed lives begin to shape on evening like this as we focus outward on others and more important things other than our selves and our struggles. I will post some follow up thoughts after tonight's experience.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
3rd C.....
It has been a few days since I last logged in to finish up this "C" talk I am working through. Nothing short on excitement though. 56 students in our student ministry yesterday. That is exciting! Family and Student ministry meeting last night, College basketball game tonight with "MyKids" and then a service project with our middle and high school students and their families tomorrow night as we head to the Christmas Center to shop for the kids and adopt Angels through the Salvation Army. I am so very excited about this time together as it is such a humbling experience to really adopt these children and take ownership as the students shop for gifts for these families. Its personal and such a joy to see. I will post some of those experiences later in the week. But this brings me to my third "C" and its fitting because we are on the move and putting action to our faith. See faith is not just meant to be seen or heard. It is meant to be demonstrated. As director of the student ministry at church - I need to work harder at doing this and communicating more effectively. See this is half of the bigger picture and not just being and leading the students. So as we Celebrate where we are and where Gods has us, we Connect with others to help us on our walk to keep us focused and encouraged and we Contribute by being the hands and feet of Jesus to those around us. I can't be the light for Jesus in your world. You can't be that light in my world. We are all called to illuminate Gods love and grace where we are doing life. Christmas time is here and the days are winding down. I am not feeling ready this year mainly because Carol and Kyle both have birthdays in there before Christmas. Its hard to concentrate on both and still be in the spirit. Its the worlds vision of spirit I am talking about - giving is just a part of who I am. I am in constant prayer of opportunities to walk with people and help out where I can. If done for the right reasons - blessings can be felt, experienced and shared no matter what time of year it is. There is nothing better than sending a family a box wrapped in love with things in the box that screams - someone cares and not taking any credit for it at all. Man that is sweet......
Romans 12:
6-8If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face.
9-10Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
17-19Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
20-21Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
What do you want your life to be about? Some of the things above are hard for sure - some just dont make sense at all but looking beyond the surface of things - there is a bigger picture. I look at the student ministry that I am involved with and that has so much of my heart and makes up so much of who I am. It never would have started if I didn't take that first step. Did I think 4 years ago that I would have this burn in my chest for our children and students back then? No way ... I would have never taken that step ... to scared... I may have thought I was nuts... Carol would have thought I went nuts. But here I am .... Celebrating what God has and will do in my life, Connecting with others and serving hard to Connect people together and then Contributing by giving so much back. My time, my energy, my thoughts and prayers..... and serving with my hands and feet as we reach out to others.
When all of this is clicking .... there is no bigger smile on my face and on my heart. The both show so much about who we are and what we are becoming.
Celebrate - Connect - Contribute
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Romans 12:
6-8If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face.
9-10Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
17-19Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
20-21Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
What do you want your life to be about? Some of the things above are hard for sure - some just dont make sense at all but looking beyond the surface of things - there is a bigger picture. I look at the student ministry that I am involved with and that has so much of my heart and makes up so much of who I am. It never would have started if I didn't take that first step. Did I think 4 years ago that I would have this burn in my chest for our children and students back then? No way ... I would have never taken that step ... to scared... I may have thought I was nuts... Carol would have thought I went nuts. But here I am .... Celebrating what God has and will do in my life, Connecting with others and serving hard to Connect people together and then Contributing by giving so much back. My time, my energy, my thoughts and prayers..... and serving with my hands and feet as we reach out to others.
When all of this is clicking .... there is no bigger smile on my face and on my heart. The both show so much about who we are and what we are becoming.
Celebrate - Connect - Contribute
Love you all,
Lonnie~
Thursday, December 3, 2009
2nd C...
I have had a great couple days the last few days. Busy - but that is good. Trying to Celebrate all that God is doing in my life as well as those who I am doing life with. I got to enjoy a great college basketball game last night with some of my closest kids. I so much enjoy this time together, enjoying the crowd, dip n dots and popcorn and the smiles. Game didn't start till late but we did leave a little early so they would be able to handle tests and their regular school day and my work day. One thing we always do when we are on campus is to stop by the office - get a drink, a piece of candy and they always love enjoy checking out my office. On my desk and walls, I have lots of pictures and notes. So much to look at as my life is on display and there is no question as to where my heart is after just a minute or two. I came in this morning after a tough start, to find 2 handwritten notes on my desk. "Its going to be a happy day no matter what anyone says!" - "I Love you" with hearts and signatures. Man that just humbles me big time. It was a great reminder to Celebrate what is good in life even though there are some tough things that could drag us down and make us lose our Joy. It is so awesome to know that all I pour out - it is being poured IN somewhere. This brings me to my 2nd "C" today. "CONNECT". As a follower of Jesus were are not made to do this life alone. Being alone is a place that lets our minds and hearts wander into places that are not healthy. Sad and depresses - worst place for you is to be alone. You need to surround yourself with people who care and love you. Even if its one of those days that are tougher than normal, things are just not working out right or the kids are unhappy over something - we need to have someone in our life that can pick us up and move our spirit, attitude and outlook to a greener place. I know this is hard for some and just not possible every single day - Hey I get that. But by Connecting with others - it gives us the opportunities to change the outcome and the path we currently are on. Hey nothing like a close friend when we are feeling down right? Our Christian walk is no different. There is so much more to learn and experience when you are along side someone else who maybe has already been through what your going through and has the wisdom and the words to help us along or maybe its you who have been through some struggle and can reach out to them with the practical love of Jesus. Maybe its a great day and having someone Celebrate what God is doing in your lives is such a blessing! 2 lights shining and illuminating the dark places in this world are far better and stronger than being alone.
Romans 12:
Place Your Life Before God
1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
3I'm speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it's important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him.
4-6In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we're talking about is Christ's body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn't amount to much, would we? So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren't.
So as we evaluate where we are today - there is reason to Celebrate and Connect. Christians should be the happiest people on the face of earth. We have each other and we know already what God has done for us. Lets team together and make this world a different place - one person, one family, one neighborhood, and one community at a time.
"Its going to be a happy day no matter what anyone says!" - Thank You!!! :)
Lonnie
Romans 12:
Place Your Life Before God
1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
3I'm speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it's important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him.
4-6In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we're talking about is Christ's body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn't amount to much, would we? So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren't.
So as we evaluate where we are today - there is reason to Celebrate and Connect. Christians should be the happiest people on the face of earth. We have each other and we know already what God has done for us. Lets team together and make this world a different place - one person, one family, one neighborhood, and one community at a time.
"Its going to be a happy day no matter what anyone says!" - Thank You!!! :)
Lonnie
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
3C's
Wow it has been a busy day for sure. Going to take a few minutes here and unload a few things. Now is your chance to hit the browser and move on or you can stick with me and read on at your own risk. I am learning a lot lately - not so much in reading things but in the people who are in my life right now, as well as the opportunities that come forth that bring such incredible conversations. Not all of which are God centered in the middle of them, not because of me, but I do know there is purpose in them. Sometimes we have to focus a little harder to find God in those conversations, even when the person we are talking with doesn't know God. He or she may ... because of that conversation. It may be an opening to their hearts and minds as you listen with 100% attention and with laser focus on the stuggle or whatever the subject may be. Sometimes just being available to talk means the difference. God for sure is teaching me through that lately...and honestly - I am so cool with it. Teach me Lord.... keep showing me You in all that I am doing.
Yesterday I was in Romans 1:11-12 and I am still there today. I am just blown away by what God has to say about pouring yourself into others with Gods word and in return they pour back into you. In so many small, subtle and in many big ways - many are showing me Jesus. From the text messages, to the emails, smiles, comments on facebook and even in watching their actions and concerns for others ... its so wonderful to see some folks in my life "Owning" their faith and putting it into action. Especially from our young adults. I want to share that Kyle continues to bug me about a new list. See I put together a list a few weeks back with action steps that students can use to put their faith in action by doing little things that are nice. Like holding the door open for every person you see that day, helping a single mom, praying for a friend, writing a note of encouragment to someone who needs it, writing a bible verse on your notebook, or even making a testimony shirt and wearing it to school with Bible verses on it and kids signing it. Kyle did the entire list and was so excited that he wants more. There were other students that went with me to a home of a town neighbor and helped clean a horse stall out- yes we shoveled poop for 4 hours. Yes we were tired but we made a difference and it sure was said to us that it couldnt have been in more perfect timing for that family. I can look around me and see so many who are just glowing in what God is doing in their lives. I can see God using them supernaturally and within their sweet spot. I see their concern for others and their compassion for other classmates. I see them wanting to please mom or dad that they work hard for their grades and the things at home they do to help keep a home running. It means so much to me for "MyKids" to text me after school and ask me how my day was. It means a lot to me watching them care and be concerned for others. There is reason to celebrate. This bringing me to my first "C". There is reason to CELEBRATE in what God is doing in our lives - no matter how big or how small. If you are in a quiet season right now - step up your game. Get with another person or leader in the church and get involved in something new. Ask to lead a new volunteer spot and let God teach you something new, something about yourself and more importantly something new about Him. See God doesnt want us sitting at home on the couch, being complacent and comfortable. Far too many people watch their years go by striving and working hard to do just that. Make a difference, reach out and do some hard things, get involved with what is going on. If you need some refocus and having trouble finding something to celebrate in your life - then hold your breath awhile and enjoy breathing in when you cant hold it any longer. Life and air we breath is reason to celebrate! Even during the wait of a medical test there is hope and assurance and reason to celebrate because the hard stuff is done already. Jesus has already led the way.
I love the families God has put in my life. I love the people that come into my office and want to talk and pray. I love the students in my life that I get to invest in on Sundays and in every day of the week. I love "MyKids" who are my sons and daughters..... I love the fact that they are showing me Jesus and owning it as much as I am doing my best to show them Jesus.
Its reason to Celebrate ..........
Colossians 3:16-17
16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.
Just blessed beyond reason to be a part in all that God is doing in my life as well as those around me. It is such a high calling and responsibility that makes life worth living and pouring into. Imagine all that can be done through a 12 year old who gets this now.... Exciting watching God use them. Exciting no matter how old really .... cause I am pretty old and its pretty exciting. :)
2nd C - tomorrow~
Celebrate loved ones,
Lonnie
Yesterday I was in Romans 1:11-12 and I am still there today. I am just blown away by what God has to say about pouring yourself into others with Gods word and in return they pour back into you. In so many small, subtle and in many big ways - many are showing me Jesus. From the text messages, to the emails, smiles, comments on facebook and even in watching their actions and concerns for others ... its so wonderful to see some folks in my life "Owning" their faith and putting it into action. Especially from our young adults. I want to share that Kyle continues to bug me about a new list. See I put together a list a few weeks back with action steps that students can use to put their faith in action by doing little things that are nice. Like holding the door open for every person you see that day, helping a single mom, praying for a friend, writing a note of encouragment to someone who needs it, writing a bible verse on your notebook, or even making a testimony shirt and wearing it to school with Bible verses on it and kids signing it. Kyle did the entire list and was so excited that he wants more. There were other students that went with me to a home of a town neighbor and helped clean a horse stall out- yes we shoveled poop for 4 hours. Yes we were tired but we made a difference and it sure was said to us that it couldnt have been in more perfect timing for that family. I can look around me and see so many who are just glowing in what God is doing in their lives. I can see God using them supernaturally and within their sweet spot. I see their concern for others and their compassion for other classmates. I see them wanting to please mom or dad that they work hard for their grades and the things at home they do to help keep a home running. It means so much to me for "MyKids" to text me after school and ask me how my day was. It means a lot to me watching them care and be concerned for others. There is reason to celebrate. This bringing me to my first "C". There is reason to CELEBRATE in what God is doing in our lives - no matter how big or how small. If you are in a quiet season right now - step up your game. Get with another person or leader in the church and get involved in something new. Ask to lead a new volunteer spot and let God teach you something new, something about yourself and more importantly something new about Him. See God doesnt want us sitting at home on the couch, being complacent and comfortable. Far too many people watch their years go by striving and working hard to do just that. Make a difference, reach out and do some hard things, get involved with what is going on. If you need some refocus and having trouble finding something to celebrate in your life - then hold your breath awhile and enjoy breathing in when you cant hold it any longer. Life and air we breath is reason to celebrate! Even during the wait of a medical test there is hope and assurance and reason to celebrate because the hard stuff is done already. Jesus has already led the way.
I love the families God has put in my life. I love the people that come into my office and want to talk and pray. I love the students in my life that I get to invest in on Sundays and in every day of the week. I love "MyKids" who are my sons and daughters..... I love the fact that they are showing me Jesus and owning it as much as I am doing my best to show them Jesus.
Its reason to Celebrate ..........
Colossians 3:16-17
16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.
Just blessed beyond reason to be a part in all that God is doing in my life as well as those around me. It is such a high calling and responsibility that makes life worth living and pouring into. Imagine all that can be done through a 12 year old who gets this now.... Exciting watching God use them. Exciting no matter how old really .... cause I am pretty old and its pretty exciting. :)
2nd C - tomorrow~
Celebrate loved ones,
Lonnie
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