Valentines Blog Tour...

The latest pile of freebies that showed up in my mailbox for review consisted of four books. And being that I had no faith in my ability to read all four, nor did I particularly want to read all four, I decided to enlist an outsider. So Erin (I no longer link to her blog since she never actually blogs anymore. But I still love her!) was gracious enough to do two of the following reviews.

That alone is memorable because I don't think I have ever had a guest blogger stop by. Especially one this hot!

And just by way of clarification, I only counted one of these books towards my own book tally for the year. I just want there to be no confusion.

Here are Erin's thoughts on the first two books. Mine are obviously the last two.

I Do Again
Cheryl & Jeff Scruggs

This book was a quick and easy read. The authors were honest and open about the mistakes they had made that led to a divorce, and the rough journey to remarriage to each other 7 years later. It was a good reminder to not make the same pitfalls in my own marriage and enjoyable to hear a unique story of God working in people’s lives. Not super profound, but enjoyable.



For Women Only
Shaunti Feldhahn

I read this book in one sitting and for the most part felt like it was nothing new or surprising. I found that the generalizations were sometimes a little too general, but it was a good refresher on the differences between men and women. This might be a better read for someone who is newly or getting married to help them understand guys better. It did make me think about a few things in my marriage that I could work on though, and that’s not a bad thing.

For Men Only
Shaunti & Jeff Feldhahn
Book #8

This book was part of the For Couples Only series that Erin read the women's portion of. If you've been married for any length of time it's quite possible that you've figured out most of what's in this book. But the chances are that since you are male, you've likely forgotten it. So the book is a good reminder for some very simple basics on how you should approach your wife. Or if you're husband is a terrible listener, you may want to give him a copy and hope he picks something up.

The Love as a Way of Life
Gary Chapman & Elisa Stanford

I tried. Really, I did. But I just cannot find the inner strength required to complete the "90 day adventure" of daily readings that consist of a Bible verse followed up by an inspirational story about someone else's life. Sorry.

Sweet spots...

I'm working my way through "Me to We" by Alan Nelson. The basic idea is that churches need to move away from pastor-centered ministries and work more on mobilizing people. Sure, it's something most of us have heard a thousand times, but we are terrible when it comes to follow through.

A pile of stuff is jumping out at me and getting my brain going. Here's a few:

"When pastors try to do things outside their sweet spot, everyone suffers." (37)

"If the body works right, everyone should be doing what they're best at three-fourths of the time--and that includes the pastor." (38)

In an attempt to get some lively conversation going, here's a few questions for you to consider:

1. What are you currently doing that is outside your "sweet spot"?
   
   
2. Is it possible (or even necessary) to make changes to what you are currently doing?

No staff Tuesday...

I guess that's not entirely true. There's lots of staff around the building. We even got together for our regular Tuesday morning coffee. But we did have our regular Tuesday morning (pastoral) staff meeting canceled because the "boss" (I know that term isn't completely accurate, but I can't come up with anything more creative that doesn't make fun of his choice in hockey teams) is at a conference. We won't say where he is as it evokes within me certain feelings of jealousy.

Now I'm trying to use this "free" time to my advantage, but I'm failing miserably. The only thing I can think of is that I want to head over to Tim Horton's and grab a large French Vanilla.

What should I be doing?

• Tomorrow night's message
• A college reference for a high schooler
• Sending emails to finalize a student ministry leader's meeting
• Sending emails to get our Web team off the ground (heading up this team was the latest addition to my ministry plate)
• Trying to track down flight and hotel info for my Catalyst trip in April
• Getting caught up on some ministry reading

So, I pose the same question to you.

What should you be doing?

25...

It seems like everyone is playing this "25 Random Things" meme. I, however, have felt left out. I think the only person who has "tagged" me has been my mom.

Maybe I'll get to it one of these days. DO you even want to hear 25 random things?

In the meantime, did you happen to catch the Grammy's last night? Can you honestly tell me that you thought Plant & Krauss would win big?

Reading update...

Book #5
Good People
Marcus Sakey

What happens if you find tens of thousands of dollars hidden in your basement suite after the reclusive renter suddenly dies? Duh...keep it and make things super difficult when it turns out that the money is actually stolen. I'm kidding of course, but once again I wasn't actually too impressed with Sakey's story line. I like his writing, but he just seems to put people in ridiculous situations that they bring upon themselves. Then they complain about it and try to fix it on there own while seeming to avoid practical common sense. Skip it.


Book #6
Crazy Love
Francis Chan

At times I was reminded of how loved I am. At times I was feeling guilty and slightly reprimanded for not being the Christian I should be. At times I was inspired and challenged. Chan really tries to push you to consider changing how you live so that it reflects your love for God. And from his own story, it sounds like a guy who practices what he preaches. The book also has a website that contains some videos to go along with the book. However, I wrestled with the tone of the book. Not that I expected some fluffy "Jesus loves you" kind of sentiment, but I found some of his stuff a little in your face. Some of it made me feel like I was a horrible Christian. Maybe I am. I'll probably put this on the shelf and pull it out again sometime.

Book #6
Everything Must Change
Brian McLaren

This was collecting dust on the shelf for the last year, and now I know why. I had a beggar of a time (is that even a phrase?) working through it. I love how McLaren isn't afraid to speak his mind and how he isn't afraid to ask some very big questions. But the way that his brain works can sometimes boggle my mind. I find myself reading, rereading and scratching my head more often than not. I can't put a finger on it, but sometime there are people that I just have a hard time tracking with. They are usually smart, well educated and they use big words. I think the big picture (if I found it) of change is one that seems like a great idea in principle, but I wonder if it is realistic. I also wonder if some of it is based too much on a fear of the worst of what could happen in the future. Still, you can't dismiss the merit of paying attention to ways in which the world (especially the Western world) is setting itself up for failure. There probably is something we can do.

Kickin it for Christ...

Christian shoes.

You can see the whole line up at their store.

Seriously.
Seriously?
Seriously?!?!

Their tag line is "Manufacturers of premium quality sneakers, and the original Christian shoes."

Umm...

January was Extreme Weather Shelter month at the church. Some great people (students included) stepped up to the plate to help provide a warm place for the homeless to rest for a night (or 25 as it turned out to be). Some volunteers fed them, some washed clothes and bedding, some packed lunches, some played cards and others just hung out and watched TV with them.

One of the things that we've seen as a result of this shelter is an influx of people hanging around the church during the day. They are sleeping in the courtyard, sleeping by the gym doors, hanging out in the front office, using the phone and just generally being a presence. (And I believe that is a good thing, even though I know it presents some difficulties.)

Many of the people who are around are looking for some sort of financial assistance. They can't (or won't) get food from the Food Bank of from Salvation Army. They've used up all their resources on rent, on damage deposits, or on drugs and alcohol. So they turn to the Church.

Since Monday is my day "on call" I was back and forth to the front office to talk with 5-6 people throughout the day. Most of the guys I talked with I have already met.

But it gets me wondering what other churches do when people show up looking for help. Care to share your approach?

Day two...

Well, we're still alive, but I must admit that I'm not mentally fit.

We ate at Newcomer's Lunch at church today. For supper we ordered pizza for our version of a Super Bowl party. But in my defense, we did share a Greek salad, so that has to be worth something.

The kids crack me up though.

When tucking them into bed (a little later than usual) Becca was questioning me about how things would work in the morning with mom away. I tried to assure her that the only difference was that I would make their lunch instead of mom. Becca laughed and then said "lunch" while using air quotes. I think she doubts my abilities as a homemaker.

And earlier today Aidan was playing with a Nerf gun and, while looking down the barrel, pulled the trigger. Apparently he forgot that he had loaded it and he shot himself in the nose.

I tell you, the older these kids get the funnier they get too.

Now it's 9:45pm and I'm thinking of packing it in to watch some X-Files.

Superbowl...

Bruce Springsteen and commercials. Is there even a game going on?

What's your interest in the Superbowl?

What does a dad do...

I've done this "solo" parenting thing before (results are found here, here, and here). And it gives me a whole new understanding and appreciation for those parents that have to go the road alone.

If I had to go longer than a week I think we'd be in rough shape.

So, what did I do all day as a single dad?

• We bundled up and headed off to Aidan's soccer game. I think they won 13-2 and there is much debate as to whether he scored 5 (dad's guess) or 7 (Aidan's modest guess).
• We had toast for lunch. I know that's a fairly week meal, but we had a short turn around before heading out for my soccer game.
• We bundled up and headed off to my aforementioned soccer game. A 4-1 loss. I was useless and I blame yesterday's ski trip.
• We watched the Manchester United game and most of Habs game off the DVR.
• We grocery shopped. And we bought more than pizza pops and juice boxes. Really.

So, Jon, if you can pass the news along to Erin. We are fine. So far. But supper tonight will not be healthy!

Friday fumbles...

I'm noticing a trend.

I'm gradually finding it more difficult to blog during the week.

I apologize. I know that you often revolve your own week around what you find here. I'm aware that this will make it more difficult for your regular life to continue. But, until things slow down a little bit you may have to suffice with trivial posts like this.

As for current predicaments, I just arrived home from Whistler where I spent the day skiing with my mother-in-law. I know many men who have "issues" with their mother-in-laws. They may be over-bearing or intrusive. (Is that the same thing?) They may be...(insert your own choice phrase/word). Mine is cool. She takes me skiing.

I haven't been on the slopes since well before my knee injuries and I was unsure how things would play out today. Well, it's kind of like riding a bike and it didn't take long to get back in the groove of things.

But now I'm wiped.

And my body aches.

And did I mention that I am supposed to play a soccer game tomorrow?

And my wife is running off until next Wednesday?

And I'm behind on my reading?

So, you just may be seeing a little more of me here in the days to come.

Some things are always funny...

Brad has a reason why every man should own an iPhone.

Well, here's reason #2 why you should own an iPhone.

All-Star weekend...

There's a bit of a fiasco over the NHL All-Star teams for this weekend. Most of it is concerning the selection of 4 Habs (Price, Kovlev, Komisarek, and Markov) to the starting line up. But since I'm a Habs fan, I'm thrilled.

The other bit of the fiasco is about players missing out on the game. Players like Lidstrom and Datsyuk from the Red Wings are staying home, which means a one game suspension courtesy of the NHL.

I've got the recorder set and will be watching the skills competition later tonight and the game tomorrow. But I'm looking forward to sharing this experience with my son.

I remember growing up in a house with no cable, so many years I'd run over to my grandparents apartment to watch the events unfold. I have good memories of the game and hope it can be passed on to my own kids.

Which leads me to this weekend's all important question:

Is the All-Star game worth it? Or is it all a bunch of hype?

When you can't sleep...

Ever have one of those nights where you toss and turn and just can't find that elusive thing called sleep?

What do you do?

Me? I watch the Discovery Channel.

Life Beneath the Surface...

Book #4
Life Beneath the Surface
Mike Pilavachi (and Craig Borlase)

I like Mike. I've heard him speak at a number of events and I've always enjoyed listening to him. I find him funny, encouraging, insightful and even entertaining. And he is a fan of Manchester United. Seriously, that alone wins me over.

I've been working through this book as a devotional of sorts. I've tried to read a chapter a day (some days I read two) and some of what I was challenged/encouraged with has had ripple effects that have started hitting our students.

You likely won't find anything profound that you have never heard before, but sometimes it's good to be reminded of the simpler parts of our faith.

Another retreat...

Who on earth plans to attend a staff retreat the day after getting back from a weekend youth retreat?

Me. (Yes, I'm an idiot.)

I'm glad to be home. Nothing profound happened this week, and this comment pretty much spells it out:

Lead Pastor type at dinner last night: "So, have you even been out of your room today?"

Slacker me: "Uh...yeah."

Lead Pastor type: "Seriously, did you leave your room at all today?"

Still slacker me: "Yeah."

Really, I spent a lot of time catching up with friends, but I skipped a few of the general sessions. I needed to. I was at risk of losing my mind if I kept on going.

So yesterday I slept in until 10:30, met with a couple people after lunch and then found myself a chair by the window and read and played guitar all afternoon. Then it was off to the banquet before heading out with the rest of the district youth pastors.

I shouldn't be tired right now, but I am.

Incoherent...

Every year I go on a retreat with my students I feel older. My body aches. My lack of sleep astounds me . And the recovery time takes twice as long as the year before. I must be getting older. Sigh...

Last night I'm lying in my bunk bed (yes, BUNK bed) and it suddenly dawns on me that I'm 31 years old and I'm awake at 2AM chatting with students and our intern. This is not normal, is it?

But it is what I do. And while I'm worse for wear right now, I'll recover.

Funny comment from a student: "We should do this again in a few months."

Yeah...right. Let's talk about this again sometime in the fall.

Word of the Weekend: "Swarleylicious"

Gangs...

Book #3
At the City's Edge
Marcus Sakey

I read his first book and found it to be ok, so I thought I'd pick up his other two at the library.

This is his second book and it takes you into the city of Chicago where gangsters, cops, and politicians do whatever they like.

I found this book much better than his first and there were many times when I was itching to find out how things would turn out. But once again the ending strikes me as a little too Hollywoodish.

His third book will be on the reading list for next week's District Staff Retreat in Kelowna.

Retreat weekend...

I head out with our students and leaders this weekend for our annual PROXIMITY Retreat.

What is PROXIMITY? Well, it's not something cool like our student ministry name. It's not even the name of the camp. Rather, it's a concept of growing close that we've been trying to develop with our students. It's been at the heart of what we've done for almost 2 years now. And the basic focus is two fold:

• Help students grow closer to God
• Help students (and leaders) grow closer to one another

Simple enough, right? You'd think so. But then when you see our group together you would also see why we need this to be a focus.

We have a pile of students that have little or nothing to do with God. We also have a pile of students from a pile of different schools that don't know one another. And some weeks they act accordingly. PROXIMITY doesn't fix it entirely, but it is a tool we use that helps.

We also used grilled cheese once upon a time. And that worked too.

Anyways, I'm going through all the pre-retreat jitters. Did I pack everything? What am I forgetting? What problems are we going to face? Who isn't going to show up on time? What if the rental vans aren't ready? What if the students hate this? What if I hate it? Will I survive?

As for right now, I am aware of the following:

• the 4 vans are booked
• the camp is expecting us (or at least most of us)
  
• pop, water and munchies have been purchased
• the teaching times have been planned
• some prizes have been set aside
• games have been prepared
• registration forms are all in one place
• worship leader is prepped and ready to go
• Tim Horton's French Vanilla mix is set aside (yikes, I almost forgot my mug!)
  

Now if I could only figure out what am I forgetting!?!?

If...

If you could only attend one conference or retreat this year, what would it be and why?

These are the ones that have ended up on my radar:

• Youth Pastors Retreat (a District thing, so there's no link)
  
• National Youth Workers Convention
  
• Drive '09
• Catalyst West
• Catalyst Atlanta
• Leadership Summit
  

Zombies...

Book #2
The Zombie Survival Guide
Max Brooks

A long time ago I was shocked to discover that my wife (apparently along with most of the world's female population) had no idea how to fend off a Zombie in a potential attack. So I did the proper thing as a concerned husband and put this book in her Christmas stocking.

I was concerned for her safety should I succumb to the living dead.

But she refused to read the book because it scares her (by the way, she is also afraid of X-Files and feet). So she told me to read it and let her know in brief detail what she may need to do if Zombies attack.

Funny book. Unless you consider the fact that there are likely people in the world who take this stuff seriously.

Newest family member...

Actually there are two new members worth noting. Obviously the real live one is WAY more important (and way cuter). But I'm struggling with what to post today, so you can hear about both.

Graeme (my sister and brother-in-law's first baby) arrived in December, but was officially let out of the hospital today. He was actually due at the end of this month so it's been a long hospital stay.

Cute kid, eh?

I'm so happy for my sister and her husband!





And this was the new arrival in our house at Christmas. It was the one I alluded to in this post when I mentioned that I need to learn how to play it. I love it. And it has encouraged me to play more guitar than I have in a long while.

For 2009...

Here's a few things I'm shooting for in 2009:

• With the kids - More reading with them (we're working our way through Narnia), more games, more Lego and more playing.
• With my wife - Go on more dates.
  
• With books - Reading 52 books. (Details can be found here.) But I'm going to try and read a wider variety this year.
  
• With TV - Once again I want to try and watch less.
• With music - Practice my guitar. (There's been a new addition to the household and I need to figure out how to make music with it.) Write some music. Yeah, my own stuff. And maybe if I'm daring enough I may even post it.
  
• With ministry - Take "silent" retreats a handful of times during the year. My friend Andrew has been long encouraging me to do this and I was finally able to include it in some written ministry goals after my job evaluation in the late fall.
• With life - I'd like to try something new.
  

Reviewing 2008...

Last year I set myself a few goals, so it's probably time I graded myself. Here goes:

• Books - I smashed my goal, so I'm my own personal hero. (A++)
• Blogs - My Google Reader still has under 50 subscriptions although I know a few times in the year I drifted into the mid 50's. (B)
• Music - I learned a few scales and then promptly forgot them. I didn't take any lessons. I didn't even write a song. (F)
  
• TV - I stopped watching Lost and Prison Break. I was able to find more time to read, and I know most of that is due to turning off the TV. (B+)
  
• Movies - I think I wrote about 19 movies that I watched. I know I watched more but I got lazier with my reviews as the year went on. (C-)
  
• Friends - I carved out a little more time with people, but not nearly enough. (D)
  
• Finances - This is still a work in progress, but I've been doing ok with the "cash only" approach. (C+)

One other thing I'd like to mention that I didn't write down but it's always a goal, and that's my family. I'd like to think that I spent more time with my family this last year. I'd probably need to ask them to grade me, but I'll give myself a B. I still need to, as Nathan so wisely puts it here, spend more time on the floor.

Stay tuned for some goals for 2009.

Old couch (take 2)...

Today I was cleaning.

(We're having people over to watch 24 tonight so we elected to actually vacuum. I drew the short straw.)

Anyways, I discovered a few treasures in the furthest most recesses of the couch. A Crayon, some Lite-Brite and a Tootsie Roll wrapper.

I know what you're asking now. So what?

Well, it got me thinking about this post where I agreed with an Andy Stanley quote that basically challenges us that it might be time to get rid of (or think of getting rid of) some older traditions in the church.

As I made my discovery today I was reminded that we may need to look inside the couch before we throw it out. We may find a few gems like these:

• A crayon that my daughter has been missing for some time. She can't seem to color certain things if she's missing the red crayon.
  
• Two pieces of Lite-Brite that, while not missed, are still practical and will have multiple artistic uses for years to come.
  
• A rolled up Tootsie Roll wrapper that is a remnant of a youth event where our grade 12's spent the evening throwing wrappers at each other. That was months ago and it still makes me laugh.

I guess we should probably look in the cushions before we throw the couch out.

What was the last thing you found in the couch cushions? (Proverbial or otherwise.)

Thursday...

I just watched Death Race. Don't ask why. The obvious answer is because it only set me back $0.88. That, and Erin headed out for coffee tonight so I had the TV to myself.

Then I realized I hadn't posted since Sunday. And that seemed to be too long. The countless emails that poured in from around the world were concerned that I had given up blogging.

Not so.

I'm here.

Just not much to blog about.

But I'll be back...someday.

Changing the furniture...

Sorry for the layout change, but I was frustrated by the last blog template that wouldn't how the date, let me access older posts or add the time that I posted. So I've settled on this new one...for now.

The Truth About You...

My first "official" book review. Sure, I'm offering this one in order to get free books, but I'm cheap.

Book #1
The Truth About You
Marcus Buckingham

It will likely take you longer to watch the DVD that comes with this book than it will take you to read the five chapters. Either way, you can probably pound it out in one sitting (two if you're slower like me).

Buckingham gives what appears to be some great advice for how we should each try to play to our strengths in life (particularly on the job front). He also gives some fairly simple application steps for how you can figure out what your own strengths (and even weaknesses) are.

What’s the goal? To get yourself into a situation (ie - job) where you find yourself working on your strengths a majority of your time while you attempt to pass on your weaknesses to others who are strong in those areas.

Buckingham is a very engaging author who obviously knows how to inspire people. He offers you hope while almost pushing you to believe in yourself. I know it sounds a little simplistic but I’m sure you’ll find the infamous words of Rob Schneider racing through your head, “You can do it!”

As for me, the jury will likely be out until I can work through the ReMemo pad, which is basically the project of figuring out my own strengths and weaknesses.

In short, it’s worth a read if you would like to do some self-reflecting while doing a little “on the job” homework.

Students in church,,,

Not many of our Wednesday night students attend our service on Sunday mornings.

But in the last 3-4 months we've seen a few more popping up from time to time.

The other thing you need to know is that I usually sit with the students (or is it that they sit with me?) during the service. The last couple of weeks we decided to sit somewhere else to change things up.

Well, it just so happened that a group of 4 students were sitting in the same general area as us. It's 4 students that are normally loud and not all of them were "born and bred in church", which means that they don't always behave the way typical "church kids" behave.

You're tracking with me, right?

Well, this crew was a little on the loud side today. Nothing life shattering by my account. Just kids being kids.

Well, after the service someone had a go at them. I didn't hear the conversation, but I knew they were getting an earful. And would you believe it, that I was next in line?

Here's the transcript as I remember it:

Person (obviously steamed): "Who do those kids think they are?"

Me (obviously blindsided): "What do you mean? They're kids."

Person: "They were talking all service. They were showing no respect for anyone. They showed no respect for the Lord's Supper."

Me: "Uh...well...they probably don't know better. They aren't in church much."

Person: "Does nobody teach them any respect?"

Me: "I don't know. They probably don't get told much. Did you try talking to them."

Person: "Yeah. You mean, this doesn't bother you?"

Me: "Uh...no."

Person "storms" off.

What do I do? I immediately head over to my students, shake hands and tell them that I think they're great and I look forward to seeing them on Wednesday.

And just for the record, I do not accept responsibility for the way any of my students acts while in church. I am their youth pastor, not their parent. If they are loud, try talking to their parents or to the students themselves (and do it in love). If it continues, then please find somewhere else to sit. It's a big room.

Are you watching...

Seriously, just when you think that Junior hockey can't get more exciting than Canada/USA, you get this. Canada. Russia. 5-5. Tied with 5 seconds left in the game.

If you're not watching, please quit what you're doing and go watch the overtime.

A new year, a new contest...

It only seems fitting that 2009 should usher in a brand new reading contest.

So, after much deliberation (and by that, I mean the 30 seconds that it's taken to post this) I'm going to make a goal of reading 52 books this year.

Anyone else want to play?

(Erin already started and she's on book 2 & 3. Show off!)

Oh Canada...

It was just over 12 minutes into last night's World Junior game between Canada and the USA.

The score was 3-0 in favor of the US.

I was tempted to throw in the towel. But I didn't. And I'm glad I didn't. What transpired will likely go down as one of the greatest World Junior games ever.

Canada fights back for a final 7-4 win. But let's be fair. 2 of those goals were into an empty net, so it was much closer than it looks on paper.

And the drama. A USA player taunts the Canadian bench after goal #2 by skating by cupping his glove to his ear in a mock "We can't hear you". Canada's John Tavares returns the favor. A USA player on the bench sticks his stick in the face of a Canadian player skating by the bench after a goal. A Canadian goal is scored by a player who was let out of the penalty box early by an official. And let's not forget about some of the saves made in the last half of the game. Sure, neither goalie could save a beach ball early on, but by mid-way through they had found their form and were making the game interesting.

Wow.

If you missed it, do yourself a favor and find a copy of that game to watch.

Next up: Semi-final on Saturday vs the winner of the Russia-Czech game.

See you next year...

I contemplated a "Best Of 2008" list, but I'm too lazy. And the hockey game is about to start. Go Canada!

So, this unless I see you out and about for the brief time we leave the house tonight, I hope I see you next year.

Post-Christmas Christmas thoughts...

I know I'm a little late on this, but I was reminded on Sunday that some cultures celebrate Christmas until January 1st. So this will come in that same spirit.

Before the Christmas season hit, Erin and I had a little discussion about Christmas. Specifically, the rights and wrongs of it, as are so often dictated by others.

Is it wrong to exchange gifts?

Is it wrong to listen to Bon Jovi sing Christmas songs?

Is it wrong to boycott Christmas?

Is it wrong to not boycott Christmas?

Is it wrong to enjoy the time as a family around a tree?

Is it wrong to wrap a present?

I've heard the whole rally against over-rampant Christmas consumerism and how we need to get back to the real meaning of Christmas. And some part of me completely agrees. However, another part of me has absolutely no problem with the giving and receiving of gifts, the decorating of houses and trees and the never ending supply of Christmas songs.

I could just never put my thoughts into words.

So I will let David Crowder do it, with his post on the same subject.

I'm going to agree with him.

The final words...

2008 is coming quickly to a close, so today I'll post my final book "reviews".

As many of you are well aware, I started this reading journey with a goal of hitting 26 books this year. Well, apparently some healthy competition from Erin combined with the fact that she has been working on lots of school work this year means I've been able to keep ahead.

The last week or so has seen these books added to the list. See if you can tell which one was a stocking stuffer.

Book #55 - The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller
I had to buckle down and stick this one out especially after Keller opens the book with a comment that his interpretation of the parable of the prodigal son is the "true meaning" of it. But I'm glad I stuck it out. Some great thoughts (not new, but refreshing) on the story of the prodigal son and how God is constantly reaching out to not only the lost, but also the modern day "Pharisees", those who have already "found" God but fail to let His lavish grace transform their lives. I also picked up his other book (The Reason for God) at the library, but it will wait for 2009.

Book #56 - The Chris Farley Show by Tom Farley Jr and Tanner Colby
This was like watching a train wreck happen. It's almost captivating as you watch how Chris Farley's life unraveled and how those around him responded, or failed to respond. The book is a collection of other people (friends, family, co-workers, etc) giving glimpses of what they saw happen in Chris over the time they knew him. All in all, if you've ever laughed at the antics of this man (and who honestly hasn't?), I'd recommend this.

Book #57 - The Blade Itself by Marcus Sakey
On the hunt for some new fiction I stumbled across this story of a criminal trying to right his path in life but ends up sucked into a kidnapping plot. It's one of those stories where the good guy makes some poor decisions all while trying to keep himself clean. I found the plot line a little frustrating and non-believable. And the ending is pretty typical "feel good" Hollywood stuff. But I enjoyed it overall so I'll probably give the author another try.

Book #58 - The Bro Code by Barney Stinson with Matt Kuhn
Of course Barney Stinson is only a character on How I Met Your Mother. And yes, this was a stocking stuffer. But I should point out that it didn't end up in my stocking. I had to borrow it. But this show has slowly become a Knott household favorite over the last year, mostly due to Erin's persistence. But it has provided an endless number of inside jokes and non-stop laughs. Just ask Josh (our intern).

Repeating myself...

It's snowing again...or maybe it's STILL snowing.

Either way, the fluffy white non-dandruff stuff is falling. I may be trapped here in the basement forever. But that's ok. I think I have lots to keep me occupied.

Boxing Day around here means sleeping in, avoiding the paper/cardboard mess that was left from yesterday, eating junk food (my breakfast consisted of spinach cheese dip), watching TV (soccer and hockey), reading, building toys, playing games, and anything else we feel like.

And now I'm waiting for the World Juniors Canadian game to start.

How do you spend your Boxing Day?

Christmas posting...

We've had snow for a couple of Christmases out here on the coast, but this one is taking the cake. It started snowing last night and it's supposed to keep snowing throughout the day. There is SO much snow.

Becca's comment this morning when we were waking up is fairly descriptive.

Becca: "Mom, look out the window."

Erin: "Why?"

Becca:"It's snowing and it's deep as a goose."

I don't know where kids come up with this stuff, but it's true that you could probably bury a goose in our back yard.

Erin is hoping we'll make it down the hill today. She wants to drop goodies off at the hospital and then our tradition is to head over to the Christmas Eve service at church before coming home for games and goodies. But I think we'll be stuck here.

Thankfully, the whole family is here. So, let's get this Christmas started.

A very merry Christmas to you and yours.

Porn & the C&MA...

Apparently the Christian & Missionary Alliance (the US version, of course) is teaming up with the gang at XXX Church as they open up operation on the Strip in Las Vegas.

Having grown up in the Canadian version of the denomination and having worked in Alliance churches since 2000, I think it's great to see our US counterparts thinking outside the box. I hope we see more opportunities like this in the future.

The following is from Craig Gross' end of the year update:

The Christian Missionary Alliance is joining up with us as well. They are a denomination founded by AB Simpson.

➢ In the 1880’s Simpson was the pastor of perhaps the most prestigious church in New York City and perhaps the nation.

➢ Simpson spent considerable time reaching out to men and women who were often rejected by ‘the church’. Included were the Italian dockworkers, to sailors, to streetwalkers, to unwed mothers.

➢ This all resulted in Simpson leaving his prestigious church and beginning a church on the backstage of a NYC theatre creating a SAFE place for people that had the greatest needs.

➢ Simpson was merely living out the example of Jesus Christ, who spent most of His time with the people the religious leaders often rejected.

➢ The Alliance DNA was established by AB Simpson with a passion to bring the healing Christ offers to broken people.

➢ The first Alliance church plant planted by Simpson in NYC was known at The Gospel Tabernacle. Central to the church were numerous rescue missions, some of which exist to this day. This was happening 130 years ago in The Alliance.

➢ Now today The C&MA is made up of 26000 churches worldwide with critical ministries reaching out to people that have been entrapped by the grip of the sex industry in places like Thailand, Cambodia, Mali and the continent of Africa. It’s what we do!

➢ For XXXChurch to partner with The Christian & Missionary Alliance makes all the sense in the world.

Getting fired...

Don't read between the lines on this one, ok? ;)

(And incidentally, this is book #54.)

I picked up "Getting Fired For the Glory of God" when I was in Sacramento. It's a collection of some of Mike Yaconelli's writings that showed up in Youthworker Journal over the years. The book also comes with a DVD and some MP3's of a few of the talks that he had given over the years.

I never met Mike, but we did trade emails once. And even in that brief communication he stayed true to everything I have ever known or heard of him. Wise, to-the-point, and extremely blunt.

Mike had a way with youth workers in particular, that was always guaranteed to stir something up. I have always found myself challenged, encouraged, engaged, inspired, reprimanded, annoyed, and informed by his words.

Most of this book I had read at one time or another over my years of working with students. But that didn't change a thing. I constantly found myself looking at my own ministry and my own heart and wondering if maybe I'm missing the mark at times. Maybe I'm guilty of creating a ministry that focuses too much on numbers, fun, and entertainment and too little on Jesus. Maybe I'm forgetting about my own soul as I try so hard to look after everyone else's

Yeah...big stuff. And I'm slowly working my way through it.

Actually, these last few weeks have seen me doing a mental review of our ministry (and my personal life) and trying to evaluate. I'm trying to hear God's whisper in this slower season. What does He want us to do with these students in 2009? What does He want to do with me?

Either way, Mike's words have once again been a source for dreaming and reflecting. I only hope that other youth workers will continue to learn from this man. It's too bad he's no longer with us, but I'm sure glad that his heartbeat is still felt in the student ministry community.

Is this really BC...

The snow started falling sometime last night. It's been getting worse throughout the day. In fact, the ride home for me took 50 minutes. It usually only takes 12.
I also had to leave my car at the bottom of the mountain with the other 2 dozen vehicles that couldn't make it up the incline. Hopefully it's still there and in one piece tomorrow. Last year my father-in-law left his vehicle down there and a snowplow took off one of his mirrors.

Thankfully I was able to catch a lift up the mountain with a Good Samaritan 4X4 owner. He doesn't even live on the hill but has spent the last hour shuttling people up the mountain.

Now the kids are playing. It's strange to think that this is abnormal for them. When I was growing up this usually happened in October!

Doubled it...

I officially doubled my reading goal for 2008. And I'm not done yet.

(pause to pat myself on the back)

Here's the latest additions:

Book #51 - Ministry Mutiny by Greg Stier
This has been on the shelf so long I almost forgot about it. I wasn't feeling too good last week and took Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning off, and I figured I'd get some reading done. I like some of Greg's stuff, especially when he challenges youth pastors to take their students deeper in their faith. He's also an evangelism guru of sorts. He writes this book in a "fable" style of one younger youth pastor (who is about to hand in his resignation letter) who meets to learn from a seasoned youth ministry veteran. But along with Greg, comes constant imagery of "gameday" which makes me nervous. It's a little too Ron Luce-ish for me.

Book #52 - Fuzzy Navel by J.A. Konrath
I've been reading all his other books this year, so I was happy to pick up this latest one at the library. And I'll say that this one has been his best. The cliffhanger is huge and I found myself visiting his website to get info on when the next book will be coming out.

Book #53 - Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry by Doug Fields
I've been reading this one with our intern and we've been spending some time at each weekly meeting talking about it. This book is pretty much pure gold for youth pastors of any stage in their ministry career. I got just as much out of it on this third time reading it as I did the first. If you work with students, read it. If you work with students and haven't read it in the last year, read it.

Old couch...

Read this following statement on the Catalyst blog a few weeks ago and it gets me thinking.

Do you have any thoughts? Possible implications? Push back?

Andy Stanley recently shared how church traditions are like an old couch - when you first bought it, it was awesome and made perfect sense. Now the couch, 20 years later, doesn't work but you're holding on to it b/c it has so much meaning and memories from the past.

Are there couches in your organization that you need to get rid of?

Stage left...

Carlos posted about the stage design at their church a little while ago.

I love the creativity.

Wish we could add a little life to our own stage from time to time.

You can check out a couple more images here.

God's house...

A few weeks ago I heard a statement about the "sanctuary" (in a church building) being God's house and how we need to show proper respect when in it.

I always get my back up when I hear that because I don't see what makes the sanctuary any more holy or set apart than say, my office.

They both have sound systems, uncomfortable chairs, Bibles, musical instruments, unused hymnals, places to store books, and occasionally even people and a slightly funky odor.

How do you change this mentality?

Or maybe a better question is can you change this mentality?

I see the sun...

A Thursday where I actually see the sun and can get to my blog while in the office?!?!

These days are unheard of. I will try to enjoy this.

I'm currently reflecting on last night's Christmas Bash. Basically it was just a gift exchange where we asked students to bring a wrapped slightly-used gift to put under the tree. Then we asked them to donate the money they would normally spend on a gift to our Compassion child. Personally I am a little disappointed by how little we raised and by how many students "forgot" to bring gifts.

We always have a few extra gifts nearby because we know some students just can't contribute. But this year it was an abnormally high number that just didn't bring something. We found ourselves scrambling around the Youth Centre and wrapping random things in yellow office paper and duct tape just to ensure that everyone would get a gift.

Next year we need to do something different. This just isn't working anymore.

But now it's time for a break. No more regularly scheduled Wednesday nights until January. Is it wrong of me to say that I'm looking forward to this?

In the meantime, I'm leading worship this Sunday with my youth band. Should be fun. Oh yeah, and worshipful.

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

I'm sick.

I packed it in around 1:30pm and headed for home to have a nap.

I don't feel any better now.

Maybe some tea will help?

Reading Update...

I'm all over the map these days with my reading as I now try to hit 52 before the end of the year. Yes, this all began a short 12 months ago with a simple goal of reading 26 books. I think I may have raised the bar too high for next year.

Book #47 - No Perfect People Allowed by John Burke
Buy it. Read it. And please talk about it with your church staff/leadership. This book took me forever to get through as I wanted to reflect on it. And at times it completed disappointed me. Not so much the content (it's quality stuff), but the reality that so many churches don't foster an environment where people can come as they are. This book gives me hope of what the church could (and should) be.

Book #48 - Pornified by Pamela Paul
This was not a pretty book. I guess a book about the effects of porn should probably not be "pretty", but this book takes things to a whole new level. I found it to be an articulate work, with a bit too much information, that pushes for something to be done to stop porn from damaging any more relationships or lives. You'll ache as you read some of the stories of how porn has ruined lives. But I'm going to suggest you skip this one just because of the content.

Book #49 - Jesus Wants to Save Christians by Rob Bell & Don Golden
A typical Rob Bell book with short sentences and even shorter paragraphs. I know lots of people don't like the style, but I can track with it. (I guess I'm a lazy reader.) While I wouldn't say this was one of Bell's best, I would say that it has a few gems, especially later on in the book when he starts to talk about what the church should look like. (Are you seeing a theme in my reading lately?)

Book #50 - Doors Open by Ian Rankin
This was in the "One Week" pile at the library last week so I thought I'd give it a go. It's all about an art theft in Edinburgh that involves multiple groups of people trying to rip each other off. It was a quick read, but I wasn't too thrilled with the ending or the vague epilogue. But it wasn't a bad way to kill a Sunday.

In the box...

I'm a fan of After Eights.

They are a Christmas staple for me.

So, if you share my joy, answer me this:

Do you leave the wrapper in the box after you remove the chocolate or do you throw the wrapper out?

Who said it...

Let's start a new blog feature, ok?

It's called "Who Said It" and it's fairly simple.

You just need to figure out who said this following comment today.

"Laughter is to preaching what foreplay is to sex."

Summing it up...

Last night we hosted Grade 12 "Appy Nite".

Today we hosted a youth leader meeting and "potluck".

Tomorrow we host our high school small groups.

Somehow we misjudged the schedule! Oh well. It's been a blast, and these are the parts of the job that I probably wouldn't trade for anything in the world.

Since tomorrow is officially December, I'm curious as to when you start decorating for the holidays.

It should snow...

I just think that would be kind of fun.

I'm recovering from soccer (a loss), watching a little hockey (Habs vs. Sabres), and awaiting the arrival of my grade 12 students. We planned a night of appetizers and hanging out. I know, I know...tough job, eh?

What did you do today?

Tuesdays aren't so bad...

Every once in a while I have a day that disappears so quickly that I hardly have a chance to accomplish anything on the "to do" list.

Today was one of those days.

People took over. And I don't begrudge that one bit. It was a good day. It was a day that reminded me of why I do what I do. It was a day to see people's hearts. It was a day to see tears, laughter, hope and sadness. It was a day to see the reality of life. It was a day to see God at work.

Today I was reminded that people are important. (Yes, I need that reminder every once in a while.)

So, with that thought in mind, I thought this video that I stumbled across was very fitting. A collection of people from around the world singing and playing along with "Stand By Me". Check out the site here.

Saint Patrick...

Regardless of his recent outbursts and shenanigans as a head coach, I don't think you can argue that Patrick Roy was one of the greatest goalies ever.

I absolutely admired this man growing up. I remember my stint as a floor/street hockey goalie where I was always "wearing" the number 33. I remember being willing to trade away almost any hockey card in order to add to my Patrick Roy card collection. I remember when I traded for that elusive rookie card. Sure, it wasn't in pristine condition, but it was still his rookie card.

And now nobody else will wear 33 on the back of a Habs jersey.

A great way to honor a living legend.

But I will confess that the Maple Leafs have way cooler banners to honor their legends.

Indulge me...

It's been a little bonkers these last few weeks at youth. Everyone seems to have been a little out of sorts. It's the kind of thing where you look around and you know that nobody is getting "it". Everyone seems to be off.

You ever have those nights?

Well, tonight we changed the schedule up a little bit.

We set aside time for students to share. Sure, there was lots of awkward silence. But that was ok. We gave them permission to be awkward. And they went with it.

And it was beautiful. They talked. They sat there. They looked confused. They started to share stories of life. Sure, some of it wasn't the most profound. Most of it wasn't that deep. But it was students starting to open up.

We had also planned to do some shoe box building tonight for Operation Christmas Child. With the recent mood, I was prepared for the worst. I thought we would be lucky to fill a handful of boxes. I was saying 4-5 tops. And that's me being optimistic.

Can I just say, that my students kicked ass tonight. Can I even say that? I hope so, because they did. They absolutely hit it out of the park. They blew my mind.

We actually had to drop the "teaching" time to build the boxes. Then we prayed over the boxes.

The students prayed.

This is big, because these students are normally silent when you ask them to pray.

It was a beautiful night.

Thanks for indulging me.

Am I...

Am I whoring myself out if I agree to post book reviews in exchange for free books?

Mandles...

Great Christmas idea! (ht to Josh)

A bunch of random stuff...

I feeling a little all over today.

I just finished book #46. It was Watchmen, a graphic novel from the late 80's. I saw a teaser trailer online for the upcoming 2009 release of a movie based on the "comic" and had no interest because I had never heard of it. Then I noticed the hype starting on a few movie blogs I read and I got curious. So courtesy of the library (and a 5 week waiting period) I was able to get my hands on a copy.

My review? Uh...it's a comic book based on superheroes, masked adventurers, a blue man that can transport himself to Mars, and a bunch more stuff that's too strange to sum up.

Did I like it? I'm not thrilled, but I'll go watch the movie just to see how it translates into today's cinematic medium.

Currently listening to: Coldplay's "Viva La Vida"

So, this afternoon we (me and the interns) planned a "work day" for our Youth Centre. Really it was only a 3.5 hour block to add wheels to some couches, label soem mailboxes, clean up our stage area and try to fix our drum platform.

We told our students for the last few weeks that anyone who came to help out could have some free food.

So, how many students show up? 1. That's right. One.

Does it bother me? Maybe a bit. But then I remind myself that my students are still kids. And kids do things like this.

Waiting to watch: The Office, 30 Rock, Indiana Jones, and a few more $0.88 rentals that Erin picked up today. It's been a while since I did an $0.88 review. Maybe I'll enlighten you all.

Work thing I have to do on my day off: Website.

We're trying to get our website up and running. Seriously, we've had this up since before I started. We NEVER touch it. But we're close to the new one being launched, so that means I need all the student ministry info in.

Yeah, I know what you're thinking. Why am I blogging when I should be working?

Because I believe that procrastination is an art form that is only mastered with much practice.

One day I will teach you how you too can become a master procrastinator.

And seriously, I just needed to veg out.

Remember...

I grew up attending a Remembrance Day service almost every year. My grandpa was a veteran and I think it was one of the things my family did to show respect for him and all the other Canadians who fought in the wars.

I haven't been to a service for years now. In fact, today I could hardly drag my sorry butt off the couch for more that 10 minutes at a time. (Which makes me think that something is seriously wrong with me. Because it's not like I was sick or anything.)

A day to honor those that gave up the safety of their homes to fight, and all I can do is lie on my couch. Pathetic, eh?

So, here's to those who fought.

Along the same line of thought.

What are your thoughts about referring to those who are currently fighting overseas as "fighting for our freedom"?

Just curious.

New design...

If you subscribe through an RSS feeder, you won't see any changes.

But I decided that it was time for some housecleaning. So I changed the layout of the site.

I'm not completely happy with it.

I was tempted to do a switch over to another blogging site due to the fact that I just don't like most of the blog layouts that are provided for Blogger.

But that seemed like a lot of work.

Happy reading!

Pay with a spider...

I got this story from Neatorama.

Apparently a man tried to pay off one of his outstanding bill with a picture he drew of a spider.

Read the story here.

I'm still laughing. I have a great admiration for people who can come up with stuff like this.

Saturday in the rain...

All the fields in Abbotsford are closed today.  That we'll see the sun again in May.

You think I'm kidding?

Now we've got more free time today that is normally dedicated to Abbotsford soccer pitches.

Here's a random look at a rain filled day.

Absolutely disappointed about this game.

Currently disappointed with this game.

I hope I won't be disappointed by this game.

The kids are off to a party for part of the afternoon.

Tonight Erin and I scored free tickets to the Chilliwack Bruins.

I should probably go over my songs for tomorrow as I'm leading the contemporary worship for the morning service.

I think I'll go find one of my books.

Blogged with the Flock Browser

The contest update...

Not to be confused with "the contest", this is the other contest.

I think Erin gave up. But I'm still tracking my numbers because that is where I find my value. (I'm kidding, of course.) Here's how my reading has been going. Some of this you already know, so stick with me ok. Pat me on the back and tell me you like my hair or something. I've had a bad week.

Book #42 - In the Woods by Tana French
I was looking for some new fiction. I can't even remember how I decided on this one. I think it might have been suggested on Amazon or something. Either way, it was a beast of a book that took me some time to work through. I thought it was great writing especially to start out, but I was thoroughly disappointed with the ending.

Book #43 - Churched by Matthew Paul Turner
My review is here. A free book that was a quick read filled with chuckles.

Book #44 - Youth Ministry 3.0 by Mark Oestreicher
My review is here. Marko's review of my review is here. Seriously, it was a little strange to find my words on someone else's blog. Anyways, this book a must read for you if you work with students. It'll make your head hurt. But it will probably be good for you.

Book #45 - The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie
You know him as Dr. House, but he's also a really funny author. I wasn't too impressed by the story of an arms dealer with a conscience, but the writing kept me in it until the end.

As for what I'm currently reading, I have two books in the works that I can't seem to find enough time to read lately. Since I'm taking the upcoming Monday off, and since Tuesday is a stat holiday, I should be able to catch up.

Ha! Wishful thinking.

What are you currently reading?

Do you know who John Williams is...

In lieu of my political commentary I will now share this gem with you. It's the entire story of Star Wars as sang to the tunes of John Williams.

You don't know who John Williams is? You'll remember as soon as you watch this video.

This video ate up over 12 minutes of my precious life yesterday. But all 12 minutes were filled with immense joy.

Sigh...

Nothing much else to say except:

sigh...

Monday musings...

I'm taking the day off after weeks of "gentle" reminders from my wife and from my exec pastor that I'm needing to take a break.

(Yes, I'm aware that I have some really good people around me.)

It's not like I don't take time off. It's that I don't take enough time off.

So today I slept in while Erin drove the kids to school. Then I cleaned up the house a little because I didn't know what else to do. I did some reading. Now I'm catching up on some blog reading. I'll probably play a little guitar sometime soon as well. And I'll just avoid the phone and my email.

I'll come out of my shell for high school small groups tonight, but that's about it.

For my fellow pastor types, when was the last time you took a day off? What did you do?

24...

Need I say more?