Some thoughts . . .

• It's been too long since I've been here.
• Started a new series at FPC yesterday - Making Love Last - pumped about this series - I'm hopeful that it will challenge and inspire many people, whether married, single or dating.
• A few decisions will be made this week that will help FPC have more room and be able to impact more people - very exciting!
• Discover Forest Park was amazing last Sunday evening - over 60 students, with more than 30 partnering with FPC. I look forward to getting to know each new partner.
• I love meeting new people and making new friends!
• Evan (my son) turned 18 last week and will graduate high school this year - how is that possible? Yesterday he was in 5th grade!
• Our Ecuador Discovery Meeting is tonight! 2012 will mark 11 years of God's faithfulness - I love taking new people with us - I love seeing our friends in Ecuador - I love seeing what God is doing around our world.
• I'm halfway through a book titled, God is Red: The secret story of how Christianity survived and flourished in communist China. It is difficult to process the persecution of Christians around our world. I honestly don't how I would respond if I had to face what so many Christians in China have faced. Wow!
• Every Sunday I am proud of the FPC Worship Team. Amber is doing an incredible job of leading our band each week - way to go, Amber!
• Also, Tim Chappell has stepped up and began to lead our students so well. Tim is hungry to learn, has one of the best attitudes and he is teachable - a great combination!
• Myraida has introduced new music and teaching to our kids in Adventure Park - she is learning and growing every week - Proud of Myraida!
• I could go on and on about our staff and volunteers. I am honored and humbled every week to work with such an incredible team of people. I love you!
• I keep hearing many great reports from our Community Groups - my dream is for every person who attends FPC to do life with a group a friends. You can't do life alone!
• Circles are better than rows!
• Love is greater than fear!
• Serving is better than being served!
• Pastor Mendoza (from Ecuador) was with us for a few days last week. I love that man! He is such a humble leader. He loves God with a passion. Pastor Mendoza said that he could sense unity within our church/team - greater than before - he is amazingly perceptive.
• I'm ready for spring!
• I'm ready for the Unleash Conference in Anderson, SC - taking our staff and a bunch of volunteers with us.
• Sometimes I laugh when I hear someone repeat a silly comment/rumor about FPC. I'll have to do a post just on the rumors that float around Elizabeth City - (it would probably take a book, rather than a post).
• Have you ever noticed that most religious people rarely complain when the church excludes people, but only when the church includes people. Why is that? "For God so LOVED THE WORLD . . ." (John 3:16).
• Jesus and His message: radical then . . . radical now. Jesus and His message: the same yesterday, today and forever!
• Love you.

One Day Without Shoes!

What are you doing to impact your community? Will you go one day without shoes to know how the majority of the world's kids live? On Sunday, April 3, we are coming to Forest Park Church without shoes! In return, bring a pair for kids in Ecuador! Watch this video and let me know if you're in! We want to take 500 pairs of shoes with us in July! Help us make it happen.

One Day Without Shoes!

What Do You Need To Change?

"What I do with what I've been given says a lot about who I am and where I'm going."

That's tough to accept isn't it? I know it has been for me. For years, I looked at my money and possessions as being separate from my relationship with God. In other words, as long as I "did my best" to give as "what I could", then God was pleased. Not anymore! I've learned that generosity is one of the greatest indicators of my spiritual health. Now, that doesn't mean that if I'm generous, I'm spiritually healthy. It does mean, however, that if I'm spiritually healthy, I will be generous.

I'm embarrassed to admit that I've been more stingy that I thought. In fact, I've got a long ways to go toward being generous. So, here are a few things that I've done to help move toward generosity and away from the grip of greed.

1. Consistent giving that affects my lifestyle. For my family it means automated giving. This helps because I do not want to be an emotional giver. I want to give whether I feel like it or not. So, Lana and I decided on a specific amount and asked our bank to send a check to Forest Park every week. It works for us.

2. Being sensitive to God's promptings. When a need arises and I am able to help meet the need, I remain sensitive to God's Spirit and ask, "How can I help?" I do not meet every need; there are too many needs and I do not have enough resources. But, I try to listen carefully to where I can assist and then, when possible, I go for it.

3. Downsizing material dreams. I'm learning to be content with what I have, rather than allowing what I don't have to fuel discontent. In other words, my van is ok, it really is! Plus, by not getting so upset over what I don't have, I reduce stress and free up resources to help in other areas.

This is where I am and where I'm going.

I will love to know what you need to change. Remember, we'll all in this together.

Scott

What I'm Thinking

• 2011 is here! Didn't we just begin 2010 - the older I get, the faster time moves. It must be flying by for most of my staff.
• Enjoyed a wonderful Christmas with my family. Always enjoy having Evan, Ashlyn and Camryn home from school - sleep late, go from one party to the next, play games, watch movies. It's a blast!
• So glad school started back today!
• Loved teaching through The Christmas List - one of my favorite series that we've done at FPC.
• Did JP play the Sax yesterday or what!?! We will invite him back to play more often. JP makes playing the Sax seem easy. I think I might try it.
• By the way, Ricky Braddy makes singing look easy, too. Great having him with us yesterday. Ricky's song at the end of the message (which he wrote) was amazing. Great job!
• Thanks to Tony Klepper for filling in for me yesterday - I missed speaking, though. I love bringing the message every week.
• It was nice to be off a couple of week, however.
• We begin a new series this coming Sunday - Skittles - a 3 part series on Stewardship, Saving, Spending and Giving. If we catch and apply the principles from this series, 2011 will be incredible!
• Lana started a blog - love it!
• Ecuador 2011 will be another amazing adventure - this year we want you to join us! You don't need to pray about it, either. As if God wouldn't want you to go to Ecuador and share His love with people who desperately need it - give me a break!
• I'm excited about Discover Forest Park coming up on the 16th - I'm presenting a lot of new material and we're filming this one so we can put it on FPC's website - if you've not been a part of DFP, do it - if it's been more than a year since you have, do it again. Dinner and childcare are provided. It's gonna be fun.
• I read through a couple of books over the Christmas season, 1) Linchpin - loved it - every leader of a church and/or business should read and re-read this book. I think I underlined whole pages in this one - great stuff - really challenged me and 2) Plan B - another great book - I'm planning to present this one as a series sometime in 2011.
• Celebrated the new year with some great friends. 2010 for me was a year of making several new friends - I really like that.
• I've made a few new resolutions for 2011 - my first one is to actually keep my resolutions this year.
• Another resolution is to blog more. I can hear both of you applauding . . . thank you.
• I received some wonderful Christmas gifts this year. My favorite one was . . . I better not go there.
• I've heard a lot of wonderful reports about The Brink. More and more students are connecting, small groups are beginning soon and the kids are giving more than ever. Several really exciting activities are planned for 2011. Good job, Team!
• My daughter, Camryn, sang so well at The Brink's Christmas Party. She won a $25 gift certificate - great job, Camryn!
• FPC, because of your generosity, we were able to impact hundreds of people throughout the Christmas season. From the Angel Project to Adventure Park Gives Back to feeding families. Thank you for caring, serving, and giving. It's an honor to be your pastor.
• 2011 is going to be great - bring it on!

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.

I've been thinking . . .

• Sunday was another incredible day at FPC from the opening song in the 8:30 service to the end of the children's program that evening. I'm proud to be the pastor.
• Lori Monaghan did a fantastic job leading our kids in "No Wonder" - I don't know how she pulled it off, but she did.
• I love our staff and volunteers - they make me want to go to the office everyday.
• Had an amazing talk with someone after the 3rd service on Sunday - made my whole afternoon. God is moving!
• My son is beginning to drive - pray for me.
• We wrap up our Naked Faith series this coming Sunday - this has been a fun series for me. Much deeper than many people were expecting, but it's been an exciting ride.
• Did you see all of the presents in the lobby last night for our Angel Tree outreach? Incredible! FPC blessed 130 children through Elizabeth City - did I say I love it here?
• My Community Group Christmas party is this coming Saturday evening - I'm ready - bring on the food and bring on the gifts!
• We have the largest Christmas tree that we have ever had at the Neal house - 9 feet! I had to use a latter to put the angel on. Let's hope that it doesn't fall over. I'm saying that because our Christmas tree fell over last year. And I don't care what Lana says, it was not my fault.
• Dr. Leo from Ecuador will be with us in January - he will speak in all three services. I'm so pumped! As you know, we built Dr. Leo a medical clinic this past summer. It's amazing to have him with us here at FPC and to catch his vision.
• If all goes as planned, you will see construction on the outreach center and the covered pavilion in January.
• Our worship team did an outstanding job Sunday morning - God of the Ages - wow! - what a way to end the service!
• Financial Peace University is coming to FPC in February - Dale Jones will be teaching it - if you've never taken it, whatever you do, don't miss it.
• Kate Klein (Director of Connections) led a few volunteers to Wave Church on Sunday morning in order to learn and grow from their connection teams. Way to go Kate! I love to see our teams growing, learning and becoming better and better. Did I say I love it here?
• My kids are growing up too fast - I don't want to miss a second of their lives.
• My wife is too good to me - it's obvious that I married up (no comments, please).
• I love coffee.
• I love books.
• I especially love to drink coffee while reading books.
• I want everyone in Elizabeth City to experience God's incredible grace - how can we make that happen? I want your thoughts.
• Had dinner this evening with several friends in order to celebrate a birthday - food was great - friends were better.
• Last Sunday evening about 50 FPC volunteers prepared and served an amazing meal to several families. Each family received a food basket, the children received gifts and while they were eating, our FPC kids entertained them. We have enough volunteers to served three times the families - next year we'll do it. Did I say I love it here?
• I'm ready for some snow - what about you?
• Are you going Christmas Caroling? If so, meet at FPC next Monday evening at 6:30. You'll have a blast!
• Said goodbye to great man this past week - Doug Simpson - he will be greatly missed by so many people.
• The best days of FPC are just ahead - I can see them on the horizon - can you?
• Lana, Evan, Ashlyn, Camryn and I wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

A Million Miles

I'm reading Donald Miller's book, A Million Miles In A Thousand Years. I can't wait for the next chapter. Let me pass a few of his thoughts on to you.

"Your brain doesn't stop growing until you turn twenty-six, so from birth to twenty-six, God is slowly turning the lights on, and you're groggy and pointing at things saying 'circle' and 'blue' and 'car' and then 'sex' and 'job' and 'health care'. The experience is so slow you could easily come to believe life isn't that big of a deal, that life isn't staggering. What I'm saying is I think life is staggering and we're just used to it. We all are like spoiled children no longer impressed with the gifts we're given--it's just another sunset, just another rainstorm moving in over the mountain, just another child being born, just another funeral."

Miller observes,

"I've wondered, though, if one of the reasons we fail to acknowledge the brilliance of life is because we don't want the responsibility inherent in the acknowledgment. We don't want to be characters in a story because characters have to move and breathe and face conflict with courage. And if life isn't remarkable, then we don't have to do any of that; we can be unwilling victims rather than grateful participants."

Are you an "unwilling victim" or a "grateful participant"?

Just wondering.

Alright, back to reading.

Stuff I'm Thinking

• I enjoyed Sunday! From the worship to the beginning of a new series to community group last evening - great day!
• The opening song was excellent - thanks Bob.
• Yesterday was Tony's first Sunday singing on the Worship Team - amazing job! I heard lots of positive feedback - I'm confident that we will see him more often.
• I am so pumped about this new series, Naked Faith: Stripping Off Religion. A lot of positive feedback after part 1 - a lot of people wondering about the Naked Quiz - this is going to be fun!
• Remember for part 2, don't wear any clothes! It's a creative element that we're trying. Come on, it will be fun -- anything for Jesus, right!! (I'm not serious, BTW - trust me, you never know who will take me serious).
• Really excited about the basketball court and pavilion going up soon.
• Thanks for your giving.
• Our Women's Ministry (WOW) had another amazing trip to the Women of Faith Conference. Special thanks to Diane Hollowell and her team for making it happen - you ladies are on a roll - keep it up.
• I love our community group - the people, the fellowship, the teaching (not me), the food, everything - I look forward to it each time.
• We have so many needs within FPC and our community - I'm praying that God will resource our church with more and more people who are generous, so that we can give to others and meet needs. Please pray with me and give with me to make it a reality.
• Winterfest at Liberty University looks like a blast - get your kids there! Trust me, they will benefit a lot more from going to Lynchburg and participating in worship and activities with other kids than getting another expensive gadget. (Sorry kids)
• God is using FPC to change lives! I keep hearing about someone else who has been impacted and encouraged and challenged - it is a humbling experience to realize that God is using us to affect people's eternity.
• I'm diving back into some classes in 2010 - trying to finish up a degree - bitter/sweet - can't imagine finding time to read, read, read and write, write, write - but, there is no better time than NOW.
• Ecuador is on my mind again this week - 2010 will be our best year ever - we will reach more people and impact more lives - go with us, please!
• Lana is doing so good - I'm proud of her - she is and always has been my inspiration.
• I'm making so many new friends at FPC. We really have a great church - I love it!
• I will try to blog more. (Yeah, right!)
• Who are you praying for and investing in and loving into God's kingdom? Just a question.
• I love your comments, feedback and questions - keep them coming!!
• Have a wonderful week. Now, I must get busy doing other things than simply blogging.
• I love you - I really do.

I just began reading Michael Green's book, Thirty Years That Changed The World. I am learning so much about the early church and the character of the first disciples. Please read and reflect on the following two quotes. Each of these were written just 90 -100 years after the death of Apostle Paul (150-200 A.D.) These quotes describe the early church and give us a glimpse into the inner-workings, values, thoughts, reputation and practices of the first disciples.

The first one comes from Clement:

"For when unbelievers hear from our mouth the oracles of God, they wonder at their beauty and greatness. Then, discovering that our deeds are not worthy of the words we utter, they turn from their wonder to blasphemy, saying it is all a myth and delusion." (2 Clement 13:3).

Forest Park, that is still true after 1,850 years!

The next one comes from the Epistle to Diognetus. A little longer but read it slowly and reflect on each line.

"They dwell in their own countries, but simply as sojourners. As citizens they share in all things with others, yet endure all things as if foreigners . . . They marry, as do all. They beget children, but they do not destroy their offspring. They have a common table but not a common bed . . . They pass their days on earth, but they are citizens of heaven. They obey the prescribed laws and at the same time surpass the laws by their lives. . . They are poor, yet make many rich. They are in lack of all things, yet abound in all. They are dishonored, and yet in their very dishonor are glorified. They are evil spoken of, yet they are justified. They are reviled, and bless. They are insulted and pay back the insult with honor. They do good, yet are punished as evil doers. When punished, they rejoice as if quickened into life. They are assailed by the Jews as foreigners, and are persecuted by the Greeks. Yet those who hate them are unable to assign any reason for their hatred."

Wow! Makes me wonder how the church of 2009, especially Forest Park, is doing? What would be written about us? How would we be described?

I've got some thinking and praying to do. Please join me.

Sunday Night Thoughts

• Great Sunday! Thanks to everyone who made today successful. Even though a lot of people were out due to sickness, the Women's Beach Retreat and weekend getaways - you made it work - FPC people, you always impress me!
• I announced this morning that construction will begin soon on our basketball court, pavilion, volleyball court and outreach center. I cannot wait! Lots of planning and it is finally coming - your generous giving made this a reality - thank you.
• Today's message was difficult to present - it wasn't the material (I knew the material) - it was the subject - not an easy one. Suffering is hard to explain, especially when so many of our people are suffering.
• What are you doing to eliminate suffering throughout our world? I know I'm not doing much - God, break my heart with what breaks your heart!
• We have some new microphones ordered - they should be in this week - excited.
• We have some new lights ordered, too - they should be in next week - maybe a few new colors can tone down the shine on my head - probably not.
• I've been listening to a couple of new c.d.s - Hope Rising (Steve Fee) and Epic (Healing Place Church) - great worship experience. I especially like "Rise and Sing", "We Crown You" and "Promise Land" (Steve Fee) and "Beautiful King" and "The Creed" (Healing Place).
• I am so pumped about a new series that I'm beginning in November - I don't know the name yet - but it will be the most bold, clear, strait-forward presentation of the gospel that we have ever done! Trust me - people will either run to FPC or run away during this series. I just finished reading a book that discusses exactly what I have been wanting to say for a long time - it helped me to finally construct an outline for the series - excited and nervous!
• I also just began to read a book that has moved me like NO OTHER BOOK in a long time - it is called The School of Dying Graces, by Richard Felix - unless you want your heart pulled out of your chest - DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. It details the journey of Richard's wife from the moment she discovered she had cancer through her funeral and beyond. I can only read a chapter or two at a time - it is powerful, gripping, eye-opening.
• The Women's Beach Retreat was a HUGE SUCCESS! I have heard so much about it and how great it was - Lana had such a fun time. I'm pleased that we have a women's ministry team that cares about the women of FPC. Great job!!
• Sometimes I don't believe that my heart can contain any more love for my family than I feel. Each of my kids is a gift from God to me - I am blessed beyond measure. Lana is a dream come true for me - I love her with all that I am and thank God each day that He partnered us together.
• The colder weather? - Bring it on!
• I've got a new cell phone - now, I just have to figure out how to use it.
• Our Invite Cards look great - although one of the service times is wrong (8:00 instead of 8:30) - they look incredible - please go by and pick up some and give them to your friends - remember, leave a GENEROUS TIP if you put one on the table at a local restaurant - no cheap people at FPC - right?
• Good night!

How "Feisty" Are You?

I picked this up from Michael Hyatt’s Blog this week and when I read it, I immediately shared it with our FPC staff and just had to share it with you too. If you are a leader, you will appreciate these insights.

Did you know that General Tommy Franks flunked out of the University of Texas in 1967? (Yes, even successful people sometimes fail) Rather than waiting to be drafted to fight in Vietnam, General Franks enlisted in the Army. As he got on the bus to leave for boot camp, his father said, “Son, I have one piece of advice. Be feisty.”

Tommy replied, “But Dad, I am feisty.”

His dad said, “I mean it as an acronym. F-e-i-s-t-y.” He then went on to explain:

“F” is for focus. You need to get focused on what is important and stay focused.
“E” is for energy. Bring all the energy you can muster to every situation.
“I” is for integrity. This is your most important possession. Don’t ever compromise it.
“S” is for solve the problem. Don’t argue. Don’t make excuses. Just solve the problem and get on with it.
“T” is for take the blame when no one else will. Accept responsibility and be accountable.
“Y” is for “Yes, I do windows.” Don’t ever say, “That’s not my job.” Do whatever the boss asks you to do and do it with enthusiasm.

Great advice!

How F-e-i-s-t-y are you? How focused? How energetic? How’s your integrity? Do you solve problems or make excuses? Do you accept blame or pass it off to someone (or something) else? Are you constantly looking for ways to get out of work or do you finish your work and sometimes you do the other guy’s work too -- WITH ENTHUSIASM?

This is the stuff that separates the GOOD leader from the GREAT leader.

Think about it!

Random Sunday Thoughts

• Another Great Sunday!
• Community Group was so much fun this evening - I can't wait to go back.
• Amber Jones said that her banana pudding was sugar-free - I've had sugar-free banana pudding and that was not sugar-free! I love you Amber but I don't appreciate being lied to - it was just too good!
• Bob C. is doing a wonderful job on our new video announcements - they look better every week - today was the best yet - great job!
• Our video recording of the services are getting better too - thanks Brian Sabin and Britney Luton - you guys are priceless to FPC.
• We're getting a few new lights in the auditorium soon - can't wait.
• The new banner looks awesome! Thanks Michele Adlon for getting that ordered.
• I'm confident that the girls cheated at community group this evening - they should have never won that last game of Catch Phrase.
• The message today was challenging to every parent - INCLUDING ME! Now if I can just live out what I preach - PRAY FOR ME.
• Lana and I are going to Cary, NC this coming Saturday to encourage a variety of pastors throughout Eastern North Carolina to partner with us in Ecuador.
• I heard Julie Gregory did an outstanding job representing Ecuador at First United Methodist this evening - several people are interested in going with us - way to go Julie.
• We're getting our drawings completed this week for an outside basketball court, volleyball court, large pavilion and an outreach center - all of it is being built at the FPC campus - it will be exciting to see it completed.
• Several people at FPC need a lot of prayer right now - please remember them every day.
• I had such a good time with my family tonight at community group - it is especially exciting to beat Lana in Catch Phrase - Ashlyn had a chance to play too - always fun to play with my kids.
• I'm still waiting for Chris Eure to cook some brisket - bring it on Chris!
• I'm praying for your family and friends to come to know and follow Jesus - invite them to join us this Sunday.
• I'm pumped about our new series, "You Asked For It!" I need you to post your questions now - we're taking the top 5 questions and we're answering them throughout this series - if you have a question send it to questions@fplive.org. No question is off limits - I want to know what you think - ask!
• After three services this morning and community group tonight - I'm tired.
• I have a really long week ahead - I'm going to bed.
• I love you FPC.

Random Sunday Thoughts

• I loved today!
• FPC live online this morning - we have a few "bugs" to work out - we have to speed it up and we have to get better lighting - we will - it's going to be great!
• Thank you Brian Sabin - you made it possible.
• Someone from Saudia Arabia checked us out this morning at FPC! How cool it that?
• The band did excellent today!
• So did Bill and Britney.
• We had an exciting Discover Forest Park this afternoon.
• 11 people partnered with us in membership.
• I made two new friends today - that's always fun.
• I'm really excited about the future.
• Michele Adlon and Kate Klein are so faithful and do such an amazing job with our classes.
• I don't know what Michele calls most of her dishes that she cooks - but they are all really, really good. In fact, I only teach the classes so that I can try all her food.
• The series, Confessions of An Imperfect Parent, is going to be challenging.
• Our Ecuador Outreach Team represented FPC tonight in Edenton - the service went really well - God is doing amazing things through this team.
• Ecuador 2010 will be the best yet - wait and see!
• Pray for one another.
• Love one another.
• Serve one another.
• I am blessed to have Evan, Ashlyn and Camryn as my children and to do life with Lana by my side - trust me, it doesn't get much better.
• God is sending new people to FPC to partner with us in order to reach people not only here but around the world - I cannot see tomorrow - but if it is anything like today, I'm ready for sunrise!!
• I'm loving Reggie's book, Think Orange. Anyone who leads children and/or students must read it.
• This past week I found several new blogs that I'm beginning to read.
• I'm tired, really tired.
• I can't believe September is here - weren't we just in June?
• I'm calling it a night . . . for I'm starting to ramble.
• I love you.
• I really do.

I'm Dreaming of Oranges

I reading through Reggie Joiner's newest book, Think Orange: Imagine The Impact When Church and Family Collide. Reggie shares the following . . .

"Orange Babies is a group that has dedicated itself to protecting the future of children in an unusual way. Originating in Holland, the group's members are committed to rescuing children in Africa from falling victim to AIDS. A dose of the drug nevirapine during the last month or pregnancy can help prevent an HIV-positive pregnant mother from transferring the disease to her child. Here's the amazing thing: One pill gives the unborn child a 50 percent chance of being born without the deadly virus. The cost of the pill is a whopping six dollars. So Orange Babies has developed a simple plan to fight AIDS: Give the pills to as many mothers as possible so as many kids as possible can have a better chance to live."

He continues . . .

"Imagine you are a doctor who holds in his hands a drug that would stack the odds in a child's favor. Would you use it? Absolutely! Likewise, we as leaders are called to save lives and to give every kid the best chance possible. Although parents don't have a pill they can give their kids to help them have a better chance spiritually and morally, you can implement a strategy that will improve their odds."

As a parent and a pastor, I'm asking, "What strategy are we using that will greatly improve the odds of our kids becoming spiritually and morally healthy?" That really is the most important question, isn't it? Whether our kids are successful in sports or made the honor roll is important, but compared to spiritual and moral health, sports and grades are left in the dust, right?

Let's be honest with ourselves and with our kids, do we have a strategy for our children's spiritual and moral health? Or, are we just hopeful that our kids will turn out all right in the end?

Do you have one? If so, I'd love to know - mine always needs improving!

I have a lot of thinking to do . . .

Welcome to FPC! Smoking or Non-Smoking?

Reggie McNeal's book, Missional Renaissance, is rocking my world and shifting my thinking. Here's what I mean . . .

"He calls it the 'cigar bar church.' Every Sunday night, Chuck gathers a group of guys together around cigars and some drinks. They talk about everything--everything. Including God. 'These guys would never go to church,' he says. 'They'd shock everybody with their questions. Besides,' he adds, 'they don't let us smoke cigars in church.' Chuck is no rabble-rouser; he's an ex-pastor who grew frustrated at not being able to reach men with his church programming. . . . Chuck is providing a connection to the kingdom that doesn't come with all the church trappings that often obscure the primary point. Church is simple at the cigar bar: life is the issue; God is the conversation. Several of the cigar bar participants have become viral Jesus followers, infecting others with their newfound spiritual connections."

When Jesus commissioned his disciples to "Go into all the world and make disciples of all the nations . . . " He didn't anticipate large groups of people huddled together in buildings on Sunday mornings, singing "Christian songs", speaking "Christian language" and fighting for "Christian rights". He never planned for His church to be insulated from the culture. Instead, Jesus expected his followers to use what McNeal calls, "their life assignments as missionary posts to bless people." In our daily lives, in our closest relationships, in our spheres of influence, we are to represent God to people and people to God.

Here's a thought . . . instead of evangelizing people, which has digressed to mean "converting people to our world-view and convincing them to attend our church", try blessing people! In other words, be a priest everywhere you go - at the post office, school cafeteria, classroom, DMV (if that's possible), in the office, at the Y, when your shopping, getting your oil changed, paying bills, doing the laundry, or mowing the grass! Look for opportunities to love people, inspire people, and serve people! And do not allow anyone to tell you that you can't be a priest in a cigar bar - you can - by the way, we "church people" ought to be used to blowing smoke - don't you think?