Stuff I'm Thinking

• WOW! Yesterday was incredible! After 3 great services, we were able to baptize 14 people with about 200 people watching and celebrating. Then after the baptism, we enjoyed our community group. I could not have asked for a better day - amazing!
• THANK YOU to the Suttons for allowing all those people to invade your house - you are amazingly generous and kind - the perfect example of hospitality - we love you!
• Special thanks also to all the people who carried tables, set up food, served the people - you know who you are and we love you, too.
• Our series, I Love My Church, has been so much fun! It has provided me an opportunity to share my heart and passion with everyone. I look forward to each Sunday.
• BTW, our new I Love My Church shirts went quickly. We almost sold out yesterday. They are hot - great job Kate!
• I've seen a lot of new people at Forest Park over the last few weeks - I enjoy making new friends and partnering with new people.
• I'm excited to announce that Amber Jones is joining our staff at as our new Worship and Production Director. She will be overseeing everything from song selection, to lighting, to vocal training and about everything in between. She will do an amazing job and I can't wait for her to get started and lead us to the next level.
• Also, Bob Chambers is assuming a new role at FPC. As of November 1, Bob will be our Pastor of Spiritual Formation and Care. Bob will continue to lead our musicians (the band) but will be giving most of his time to developing systems that will assist people with growing into spiritually mature followers of Christ. He will also be providing marriage counseling to many couples throughout FPC.
• Each week I become more convinced that we must have a larger building. Now, it just a matter of details (how and when) - we must expand our facilities in order to accomplish what we believe we've been called to accomplish. I can't wait to get started!
• I had the chance to experience Switchfoot last Wednesday evening. Incredible show! It seems as if they performed about 20 songs without stopping - high-energy - amazing talent - they rocked it out! I loved every minute of it - wish I could have them open up one of our services on Sunday!! Actually, if they came, we would probably let them sing more than just one song, huh?
• I've begun reading a new book that I LOVE - it's called Saving Leonardo. I'm reading a little at a time, digesting it, savoring it - looking forward to it each time I read.
• I cannot be more in love or proud of my incredible and beautiful wife, Lana - she just is - nuff said!
• My two daugthers, Ashlyn and Camryn, are amazing too (they take after their mother). I was listening to them sign today during voice lessons - they are both so unique and gifted - I'm a lucky man to have such amazing daughters.
• Someone made me a delicious pecan pie (I refuse to tell you who made it - I will not give away my sources - I'm afraid you will ask this person to make you one, too). Anyway, it is sooo good!
• Someone else (who will also remain nameless) promised me a carrot cake - hello, I'm waiting!
• I have received some great facebook comments and emails from people telling me how much they are enjoying the services at FPC. Some attend other churches in our area, but are checking out the messages online - the message of grace is changing people's lives - even people in other churches, cities and states.
• I love the fall.
• I love coffee.
• I love reading.
• I love leading.
• I love learning.
• I love my family.
• I love Jesus.
• I love God's kingdom.
• I love my church.
• I love you.

Stuff I'm Thinking

• We began a new series, Baggage, yesterday - great response - looking forward to part 2 next week.
• Had a lot of fun teaching Discover Forest Park last Sunday evening - 20 people signed up to become partners with us at FPC - really exciting!
• Baptism next Sunday afternoon at the Suttons - if you want to be baptized, sign up - if you want to come and celebrate with others, sign up and bring some food - if you need suggestions about what to bring, call me.
• Fall Community Groups begin next week - really pumped about this - over 190 people have signed up to be a part of a group - wow! It's going to be a great year for groups. We have a few still open - get in one, if at all possible!
• Great job Brian Sabin for getting all the online and onsite sign-ups running so smoothly - you are the man!
• I will enjoy taking Labor Day off and spending it with my family - one of my favorite things to do - ever.
• I've been reading some great books recently - I've finished up Has Christianity Failed You by Ravi Zacharias, I'm finishing Beautiful Boy by David Sheff and just started No One Sees God by Michael Novak.
• Have some interesting sermon series ideas rolling around in my head (trust me, there's plenty of room to roll around in there). Do you have a few ideas? Would love to know what you are thinking.
• We have to do something about getting more room in the 10 a.m. service - yesterday and the Sunday before we were slammed! Still some room in the 8:30 and 11:30 service - how about making the switch?
• Really enjoying Hillsong's newest release, A Beautiful Exchange. Especailly, The Greatness Of Our God - Amber Jones would knock this song out of the park - what do you say, Amber?
• By the way, she did great on Healer yesterday, too. It's easy to preach after hearing singing like that. I've tried it the other way - preaching after bad singing - no fun.
• I know that I've said it a lot recently, but I'm overwhelmed with the love that I've seen poured out at FPC during the last few weeks. The true character of a church is displayed when that church begins to feel pressure and I'm amazed at the character of FPC. Recently, we have had some pain within our body and you guys responded so beautifully - I love you and feel honored to be a part of such a great group of Christ followers.
• Have I ever told you that I love coffee - enjoying a cup right now and just felt overcome with emotion.
• My son, Evan, gets his driving license in about 8 weeks. His skills are good - But I will continue to worry - I can't believe he is old enough to have a driving license - why do some days drag on and on and yet years fly by?
• The whether yesterday (Sunday) was nearly perfect - I love Fall.
• I continue to make new friends - I love that!
• There are some people in my life who have been sent by God just to encourage me and to be on my team - I'm so thankful for each one - you are gifts to me.
• Evan is also providing drum lessons to several kids - pray for Lana and me - where's the Advil?
• Did I mention that school has started up again - for some reason the song, It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year keeps running through my mind.
• Again, if you have friends who are struggling with a lot of baggage in their lives and, at times, they feel as if they are drowning - GET THEM TO FPC NEXT SUNDAY! - sorry, I didn't mean to yell.
• I love you.

Random Thoughts

• It's been too long since my last post.
• Ecuador was amazing! We saw 8,000 students in Guayaquil, El Recreo and Milagro, our medical team treated nearly 200 people at a local prison and nearly 1,000 people in the city of Milagro. Our construction team finished the building of a medical clinic and handed over the keys to Dr. Leo. Now he can begin treating the children of El Recro. I never cease to be amazed at what a group of committed people can accomplish in only one week.
• Nate Carroll did an incredible job on our recap video. All I had to do was explain what I wanted and how the video should "feel" and he NAILED IT! It was outstanding! Nearly 400 views on Vimeo just last week!!
• We kicked off our new series, Habits, yesterday morning. We began with the habit of prayer. At first, I was concerned with whether or not I would be able to present the subject in a fresh way and inspire people to pray. It turned out much better than expected. I had several very positive comments. It worked, or people were just being nice. Either way, I was pleased with our first week.
• Lana played the keyboards during worship yesterday - great job - her passion for worship was evident. Again, I'm always so proud of Lana - her heart, her attitude, her willingness to go above and beyond in everything. She inspires me.
• While I'm bragging about my family (it is my blog), Evan so impressed me this year while in Ecuador. His heart for people continues to expand. I watched him pray and cry with people. I watched him play with the children. I watched him look for people to encourage and befriend. He gave away his hat. He gave away his soccer ball. Evan is growing into an incredible young man - it's obvious that he has a great mom!
• I had my first Advisory Team meeting last evening. I'm looking forward to meeting with these gentlemen and getting to know each of them much better. I need their prayers, love, support and accountability more than ever. I'm so honored that they are willing to be my friends.
• Community Groups are launching again in just a few weeks. We have about 15 groups that will begin in September/October. If you are not in a group - sign up as soon as possible. I love my group and look forward to meeting each time. The only downside is that we do not meet enough.
• Why do some churches have to be so freaky? I'm serious. I just don't get it. Sometimes I'm embarrassed to be labeled, "Christian".
• For some reason I can't listen enough to Hillsong's, Hold Me Now from their C.D., Faith, Hope and Love. I think that it reminds that all that is happening around is going somewhere - one day God will hold us - makes me long for that day.
• I've been reading several great books recently. Finished up, Better, A Jesuit's Guide to Almost Everything and Mere Churchianity. Almost finished with The Lost Message of Jesus and Checklist Manifesto. Great, great reading.
• I have many decisions to make - need your prayers.
• I believe that I laughed harder and more in Ecuador than I have in a long time. Of course that is not difficult when you hang out with Dave Marcais.
• I'm looking forward to vacation.
• Corinth Baptist Church gave our outreach team $1,500 for Ecuador 2011 - I'm so thankful and honored that they would be willing to invest in what do each year.
• Special thanks to everyone who filled in and made everything "work" while Lana, I and so many others were in South America. You guys know who you are and you did an outstanding job.
• With churches partnering with us from Alabama, Texas, California and several in North Carolina - Ecuador '11 may blow all of our minds!
• We're considering adding a Sunday evening service - a little different than the Sunday morning - longer worship set, Q and A after the message - possibly tables in the auditorium - what do you think?
• I wonder what chapter 2 of Forest Park Church holds - are you curious?
• I am.

Mind Dump

• Wow! So far, "I'm Screwed Up!" has been an incredible series. We're pulling it all out trying to bring grace, hope and peace to people everywhere. I'm already thinking about next week.
• Recently, our band has been doing a phenominal job. Tony nailed it today with "Healer". Great job!!
• I'm loving this weather! Don't you wish we could keep these temps for several more months?
• I have our first Community Group Lead Team meeting this evening. Exciting changes coming to community groups throughout FPC - new team - new direction - new ideas - let's do it.
• Been reading some awesome books recently - challenging my thinking and theology - love it! Bring it on!!
• Sitting here, soaking up the sun and listening to Toby Mac's newest, Tonight - makes me want to dance. (No comments, please).
• Lana's birthday is today - she is the most beautiful, intelligent, amazing woman that I've ever known. I can honestly say that there is no one I enjoy spending time with more than her. She challenges me to think deeper, lead better and to be more transparent. If it wasn't for her - you would not want me to be your pastor - trust me - you wouldn't.
• People are hungry for God's grace - I could teach it every week for the rest of my life and for some of us, it wouldn't be enough - we're desperate for God's love and acceptance.
• Remember, He's not "after you" - you are accepted - you are loved - you are "ok" with Him. So, quit arguing against grace . . . accept it, breathe it in and for the first time in your life - live, really live!
• Christianity doesn't teach "reform" or "rehabilitation" - Christianity teaches "resurrection" - from dead works to life in Christ. I LOVE IT!!
• I can't say enough about our volunteers - they are incredible - every week - every area of FPC - they are there to make the day run smoothly and to make it fun for everyone.
• Perry Noble said that 25% of people would go to church next Sunday, if they were only asked - 1 out of 4 people will go with you, if you just ask! Those are great odds - who will you invite this week?
• I'm cutting back on caffeine - pray for me.
• I'm cutting back on caffeine - pray for my family.
• I'm cutting back on caffeine - pray for my staff.
• I read this quote this past week and I've been thinking about it ever since - "Ever how much we hate the law, we are more afraid of grace." Why?
• I'm excited about Ecuador this year - many new people, new experiences, new opportunities to impact new people - get ready - for some of you, your world is getting ready to be rocked!
• Wouldn't it be incredible to build of church of 2,000 in Elizabeth City? I've always believed that if you meet people's needs, you will never lack for an audience. So, do we have at least another 1,500 hurting, broken people in E.C.? Then what are we waiting for?
• From the message today, "Some sermons should be called 'serpents' for they speak lies about God." - I loved that line!
• We have had so much sickness within Forest Park recently - lots of hurting people - lots of opportunities to meet needs. Pray for each other.
• I love you.
• Going to prepare for a meeting - better get some coffee - decaf, of course!

Sunday Night Reflections

• I have never been more proud to lead FPC than I was today. The band did outstanding - Dale J. with the vocals and Bob C. with the musicians - WOW! Then to be able to interview Dr. Leo and just listen to his heart - I am humbled.
• I had so many comments following the services today that confirm that we are on the right track and doing exactly what God has gifted us to do.
• The ladies sang Mighty To Save in Spanish today - amazing - thank you!
• We had over 600 people today - I continue to be amazed. The new auditorium will come sooner than I thought.
• After the 3rd service today we took Dr. Leo and Rina to lunch - about 40 people joined us - it was so much fun!
• FPC's Women of Worth group purchased Dr. Leo's wife, Rina, several gifts and presented them to her after lunch. Rina was overwhelmed! I wish all of you could have heard her response.
• Needless to say, Ecuador 2010 will be amazing - if you are considering going, be at the meeting next Sunday afternoon at 4.
• Lana's parents joined us at FPC today - always good to have our family here - I am so blessed to have a wonderful mother and father-in-law.
• Our next series, Epidemic, begins the first Sunday in February - it will be a challenging series for us - I am excited to present it - but I'm nervous.
• Tony Klepper has joined our staff - he will be directing and leading our spiritual growth process. We have needed this position for a long time - we are honored to have Tony lead along side of us. He is a gift.
• I just started using Carbonite to back up all my files online - loving it. I have lost too many important documents on my computers to not be protected.
• Last Sunday afternoon we presented Discover Forest Park - the room was packed, the food was great, the friendships were better. Afterward, we had 14 new members join FPC! Always fun partnering with new people.
• Financial Peace University begins in mid-February. If you have never taken FPU, do it! The material within these classes will revolutionize your financial life.
• My dog needs grooming. I don't know how he sees where he's going.
• We have over 20 people going to the Unleash Conference at Newspring Church in March - I cannot wait! It is one of the highlights of my year.
• Thinking a lot about Easter this year - we have an incredible opportunity to impact many people for Christ - thinking and praying about what series we will do - any thoughts?
• As soon as the ground dries we will have the concrete poured for the pavilion and the outreach building. Joe Benton is doing a great job getting it completed. Unfortunately, the rain has slowed him down. We need some sun and warmth!
• We will be hiring a Pastor of Children's Ministry in the near future - make it a matter of prayer - we want just the right person to take our children's ministry to the next level.
• We have so many ideas for outreach throughout the Elizabeth City area. Last week I met with Lisa Meads about a variety of ideas, I also met the Brian Sabin about another amazing idea, Michele Adlon and Vicky Braddy presented a third idea - 2010 will be the greatest year FPC has ever experienced.
• Go Colts!
• I think Chris Eure needs to regrow his beard - just saying.
• I know that I say it a lot but I love my wife. She is so good to me. She is my hero!
• I know that I say this a lot, as well, but our volunteers are amazing - we could never reach the people we do without every greeter, nursery volunteer, kiosk attendant, techs, camera people, etc. You guys make it all happen.
• Winter Jam next Sunday - only $10!
• I love you and I pray for you everyday.
• Pray for me.

I Love FPC and Other Thoughts!

• Our band did an amazing job today - "Promised Land" - great way to launch the service!
• All three services were almost full - well over 500 today!
• One thing this series has taught me . . . I am richer than I care to admit; therefore, I have a greater responsibility.
• Brian Sabin has assumed a volunteer staff role as "Director of Technical Communications". Everything Brian does has the mark of excellence. We are honored to have Brian serve with us. He will make us all better.
• Lana is in California this week - pray for me!
• Thanks to Kate, we now have new and improved coffee in the lobby - the world just keeps getting better and better.
• I get more impressed with Evan's drumming each time he plays - now he has begun to give drum lessons to kids here at our home - he has two lined up for tomorrow - Advil, here I come.
• My dog needs grooming. I don't know how he sees where he's going.
• I'm so thankful for our volunteers at FPC. Each week, they step up and lead with excellence. There is no way that we could impact the people we do without each one.
• Special thanks to Ty DeHart who fixed our banner outside. It always amazes me when people know how to actually use a hammer, level, shovel, etc. Not me. If I can't read it or cook it, I'm lost.
• Dr. Leo and his lovely wife from Ecuador will be with us next week and speaking in all three services on the 24th. Lana and I are so excited.
• Snow already! If not, let's see some sunshine and warmth.
• Lana is in California this week - pray for me.
• Do you have questions about Forest Park? If so, Discovering Forest Park is next Sunday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. - a full meal and child-care are provided. Register if you haven't already.
• If the weather permits, you should see the concrete for our pavilion and outreach center poured this week. The buildings will start going up in just a few weeks.
• When will working out at the "Y" become fun? People tell me that eventually it gets easier. Liars! Every minute seems like an hour. Sorry, but I hate it. I mean "hate" in the most Christian of ways.
• The series, How to Be Rich, is challenging for me. Unfortunately, I'm not as generous as I once thought. What about you?
• I just finished reading, "Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger". Wow!
• I just began reading, "The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs". I got a lot to learn about communicating more clearly - I'm just saying.
• Lana is in California this week - pray for me.
• Forest Park Church has over 700 friends on Facebook!
• There are so many hurting people within FPC - sometimes the needs seem overwhelming - I know that we can't meet all the needs - but I just feel so inadequate.
• I'm a "blessed" man - I have great kids, an incredible wife and faithful friends. What else do I need?
• Lana shared a quote with me this week, it goes something like this, "There will always be people who say negative things about you; just live your life so that no one believes it." Love it!!!
• The interview with Satan was great this morning, huh? If you weren't there . . . no, we didn't interview your spouse or mother-in-law.
• Our next series is going to challenge you like crazy - I haven't titled it yet, but it's coming!
• Lana is in California this week - pray for me.