Just finished an interesting conversation with Tony and the guys. Although some of them will try to take credit, let me clear, it was started by yours truly. We discussed the difference between empowerment and delegation. Here are some of the differences we came up with.
I never thought I would see it again but today I did. I was driving my wife's car to a breakfast meeting and I decided to swing in and fill her tank with gas (she loves it when I do little things). The price of gas was $2.08! Just months ago I paid $4.06. Although I have very strong opinions about the economy, politics and business, I rarely voice them publically. The price of gas is just an example of the free market correcting itself. I truly believe the bailouts that are being executed lately are the wrong road. God has blessed this country in a unique way. Freedom should be free everywhere. What do you think?
Well the numbers are in. We had 323 kids come to our house last night. It was a lot of fun watching my 7 year old handing out candy. He kept saying "look at all the people we are inviting to church!". It will be exciting to see if anyone cashes in a free smoothie coupon.
There were plenty of cool costumes. Spiderman, Iron man and Batman are always popular. But for the most unique costume of the night, it has to be this little guy. Not only was he cute, he had the personality that complemented those fries just perfectly. Very cool kid, I hope to talk to him at church.
Thanksgiving is almost here! It's hard to believe. Cranberries are being sauced, turkeys are in hiding. I snapped this shot at the fair. This turkey sold for $6600! What kind of wine do you drink with a bird like that?
The start of the holiday season these days, starts on Halloween. This Friday, I am expecting 350 kids coming to my door for some candy. At BCC, we are going to seize the opportunity. Our members scooped up thousands of invite cards to our children services last Sunday to give out to the trick-o-treaters. They will receive a free smoothie from our Brickcity Brew- a treat for sure, plus they will enjoy one of the most innovative children programs that they could ever be apart of. Seriously. One thing is for sure, we do children stuff well. After all, their parents are our target.
For the adults, it's the closing message of "Got Questions". How can you know God's will? I've got a feeling it will involve reaching others with the greatest mesage on the planet. We are launching our Rockfest Grocery Project this weekend. It is definitely a blast to be involved in. Come out this weekend and get involved, you won't be sorry.
I told you about completing the playground for Rockfest recently. Here is a video update of that project. It was put together entirely on Apple's 'iMovie'. Lee, if you want to sue someone for using your song that is copywrited, Tony can give you my contact info- maybe we can work something out. The song is awesome!
I love being a Dad. I used to think it would be "inconvenient" to have to care for something all the time. But everything changes when you see that child for the first time. On Fridays, I get to hang out with my one year old daughter. I really get a taste of Kim's life. She is the best mom in the world. I certainly hope my children realize that. She so eloquently juggles a hectic life style and hardly thinks twice about it. I got to find out how difficult it is to do every day things while handling a toddler. Here is a shot of a life saving contraption in the Walmart bathroom. I probably don't say it enough, but thanks Kim, for everything you do.
Today was winter basketball sign up. I love this time of year. We get up early on Saturday mornings and go watch the boys play their games. Then we head out to Hardees and eat breakfast. This year I have two boys playing. One is a superstar and the other is just beginning. I heard Tyler tell Caleb, "don't worry, I'll teach you what to do". Caleb smiled and didn't say a word. It was as if he knew he was in good hands. After all, he has watched his big brother play most of his life and he knows that Tyler knows his way around the court.
It reminds me of what I want to see at BCC. My desire is that everytime someone picks up a red bag, they meet someone who says, "don't worry, I'll show you what to do". After all, that's what a big brother or sister is supposed to do, isn't it?
Want to be that mentor in someone's life? Drop by guest services and sign up for the Starting Point team. Help change some one else's life.
Last night we had a meeting with a few of our leaders. We met with a consulting company that helps churches move forward in stewardship, giving, facilities and community. The Senior Management Team at BCC has been seeking God concerning the next step as a church. We have been looking at "BIG", considering our options and planning strategies to get us there. We found a company that will help us in that process. They are based in Raleigh, the president lives right here in Sanford, and we found out today that their parent company vice president is the father of one of our members. Are you confused?
Well come out Sunday night at 6:30p and let us put the pieces together. God is doing some really cool things and opening some really exciting doors for us. 2009 is going to be a year of amazing things and it all starts this weekend.
We went to the state fair this week. What do I have in common with this pig?
Like every year, I spent most of my time there eating everything I could get my hands on. It's the one day every year that diet goes out the window. Here's a rundown of some of the cuisine that I tasted.
I'm sure I left something out. I rolled out of there, got home at dark, sat down and thought, "I'm hungry!" I'm going to have to go on a fast and repent from gluttony.
By the way, that pig sold for $8800.00! What kind of slaw do you eat with $8800.00 pork chops?
Thursday, I was on my way to Greenville, I was a little ahead of schedule, so I decided to visit Rock Hill, SC. I've been gone from there for 20 years. I moved to Sanford immediately after graduating from High School. Things have changed a lot. I hardly new my way around. The picture is the place of my first 'legal' job. I got a work permit when I turned 14 and made big bucks in the produce dept. I quickly became the youngest dept. manager in the company at 17. I managed to find my old house, church and school. I hung out a little while with my former pastor. He was a few pounds heavier and completely bald but otherwise the same as I remember. (I guess most men end up like that). I left not missing where I used to be and glad to be where I am now. I had some time to think about past and future and I have to be honest, I am really, really excited about the days not yet here. I can't wait to see what God has in store for me, my family and BCC. If I had it to do all over again- I don't think I would. Proverbs tells us that we make our plans but God orders our steps. I'm ready to take my next one, what ever that step is. I know God has them ordered and that gives me a peace that only He can give.
