I saw this picture on one of my favorite blogs called 22 Words. The comments about the picture are humorous and poke fun at Romney and the intern.
via Sharon Liao and 22 Words
However, there are two angles in this picture and one questions. Which one will you take? The high or the low?
This year you have several options. You can be…
The person in the spotlight or the person in the background.
The person wanting everyone’s attention, or the person that helps others to be heard.
The one who is recognized or the one who makes it possible for others to get the credit.
There’s a theme here. We have an opportunity this year to move into the role of servants. We can be the ones pointing to other people and what makes them important, rather than trying to prove our own importance.
Maybe this is the year of…
Humility
Honor
Servanthood
Modesty
Submission
Meekness
Being a door-holder
Being a cheer-leader
Shining a spotlight on someone who deserves. Even those who may not deserve it, but taking our places as humble servants.
This was the mind of Christ and we are called to the same mindset.
3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:3-5 (Click here to see the entire chapter)
It won’t be easy. The countercultural way of Jesus has never been easy. But it’s always right and always rewarding.
Questions for You…
How do you do with giving others credit?
Who are people in your life you need to show honor? (Going private)
Who are people in your life that you need to put in the spotlight? (Going public)
About 5 minutes after I wrote yesterday’s post, I saw this quote.
“Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you.” ~ Mother Teresa
Andy Stanley shared a similar statement at Catalyst this year. “Do for one, what you wish you could do for everyone.”
You can listen to a sermon below where he explains what this means.
I challenge you to take some time and listen to this message before you start the new year.
Life is overwhelming. How can we impact lives around us? One at a time.
Questions for you…
Who is the person nearest you in need?
What ideas do you have to use your life for the good of someone else, next year?
Listen here to Andy Stanley “One, Not Everyone”
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Yesterday I saw this video. It’s a collection of responses from North Koreans after learning of the death of Kim Jong Il. Watch it and read my observations below.
I was amazed how the people wept so openly over the death of their leader, whom most of the world saw as an evil tyrant. A few reminders for us.
Those we see as enemies are still people and loved by others.
The value of a relationship to another is not determined by your opinion of the people involved. A person doesn’t have to be on the other side of the world for you to see them as an enemy. Your like or dislike of a person does not determine their value to others or to God.
These people have lost control.
I don’t mean they have lost control of their emotions. They have lost their controller. They have lost security, direction and identity. I’m sure not all North Koreans, even those seen weeping, had great affection for Kim Jong Il. But suddenly the security they have known is gone. I’m sure many wept at the possibility of invasion, a drastic change (for better or worse) of life as they know it. In losing their controller, they have lost control and the future is uncertain and frightening.
Simply put, the video is a reminder of two of humanity’s greatest needs. Relationship and security. We all want to connect with others. We all want to know “unknowns” will not destroy us. No doubt, the North Korean people have lost a sense of relationship and security this week. Politically, you may consider these people enemies, but at the core of their humanity, we are no different.
It’s Christmas week. Unless you have some crazy travel plans to North Korea, maybe the best gift you can give this nation is a prayer that God will open their hearts and give them peace.
As we hit our Christmas vacations and gatherings this week, surely you’ll encounter the same weeping depicted in the video. Maybe it’s all on the inside of a person. Valued relationships may not exist anymore. Security in an unpredictable world seems impossible. Maybe the person weeping inside…is you.
Take a moment. You can share a gift of time, focus, listening, encouragement or prayer. They don’t cost a dime. You don’t have to wrap them or have a bow. But you may give someone the best gift they have had all year.
Questions for you…
Have you ever seen someone truly “love their enemies?”
What is the most difficult thing you or someone you know may be facing this week?
I talk a lot about making an impact. I know I sound like a broken record constantly saying, “We have a creative capacity from God to make an impact on the lives of others around us. We have the opportunity to bring ideas into existence so “better” comes about in the world around us.”
But there is a prerequisite for making an impact in the world. Continue Reading…
UPDATE: If you read yesterday’s post, I’m glad to share with you that my dad learned good news at his follow-up appointment. The tumors in his lungs are responding well to chemotherapy and have decreased in size about 75-80%. This is wonderful news. While the journey is far from over, we are encouraged. Thanks for your prayers.
When I was a kid I was a sucker for Christmas, Santa Claus and all the decorations, songs, and cheesy animated television shows that were part of the season. I vividly remember being about 5 years old one Christmas morning. The family was up early. We had come to see the “loot” Santa had left for us.
What I am about to tell you is not from a Hallmark movie. I actually did this. As my family rustled behind me, I moved slowly and quietly around the Christmas tree to the window. I looked up at the cold blue sky as the sun was beginning to break. I gazed hoping to see a sleigh, or a least Rudolph’s red nose. I saw no sign of them, but softly whispered to myself, “Thank you, Santa. Wherever you are.”
Now, you ladies are probably thinking that is precious. I know what the guys are thinking and yes, I agree. I was a stupid kid.
Old Christmas movies painted a pure, heart-warming picture of Christmas and Santa. But over the years, Hollywood shows us Santa in more raw and human images. Screenwriters must be bitter about when they “found out” about Santa and are lashing out against those of us who want a “nice” movie to watch on Christmas Eve, because the fun places are closed.
I’ve seen depictions of Santa as the lazy part-time worker, a serial smoker, a raging alcoholic and more. Seems we’ve taken negative images and suddenly slapped them onto Santa as accessories to his red costume.
Watch this clip from the movie “Trading Places.” Dan Aykroyd was “the guy’ who fell on his luck and took a job as a part-time Santa. I always laugh at this one.
Over time, I’ve gone from the child full of wonder “thanking” Santa from a window on Christmas morning, to the cynical guy who laughs at mockery of such an endearing character.
It happens in faith. It happens in relationships. It happens all the time when we put our trust in something or someone not really trustworthy. When the veil is lifted we see that all along, Santa had a terrible smoker’s cough and a reeks of whiskey and ham.
Growing up is hard, right?
But also growing apart, growing older, living in a broken world. Let’s face it, life can be hard sometimes and cynicism chokes out wonder. Once you get burned or betrayed, it’s hard to keep going back.
BUT… (This part of the conversation really needs a “but” don’t you think?)
The reason I’ve been writing and you have been reading is because we long for and know things can be better. God gives us opportunity and creativity to make an impact.
When you look at my posts for the last two days there’s a series of related messages.
We are in a season that should be filled with joy and peace. But mostly, I’d say filled with grace.
Creative thoughts should be dominating as we think of how to bless and impact others, not wondering if they prefer a gift card or a pair of socks. This season is for us to think and stretch our minds. How can you do something over the top to show someone how much they mean to you?
Since Santa started smoking and drinking, we’ve let the cynicism win. It’s time to find the wonder of a child in our hearts again, think and dream big, and make an impact in the life of someone who needs to know they are loved.
Questions…
What is the best Christmas present you’ve given or received, and why?
What are some of your favorite Christmas memories?
What do you love or anticipate most about this season?
Anybody remember this commercial from the “Get a Mac” campaign?
The expression “touche” is French word used in the sport of fencing. When your opponent touches you with the tip of his “foil,” you acknowledge by saying touche. It’s a way of saying, “you got me” and admitting defeat. It’s throwing in the towel because you’ve been beaten.
How many of us love the movie, “The Princess Bride?” One character, Inigo, refused to say “touche.” You remember he spent his life in pursuit of the six-fingered man who killed his defenseless father. Just like the prodigal son in Luke 15, he had a speech prepared for the moment. Say it with me…
“Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”
Or watch the clips from the movie, including the climax with the language you may not use in church.
In July I came out of a meeting and checked a voicemail from my dad. I returned his call and he told me a doctor’s visit confirmed some of his worries. Inoperable lung cancer. Over the next month he went through a series of biopsies, tests, and consultations with various doctors. In early September he started chemotherapy.
It’s been amazing to watch my dad. He’s 73 years old and over the last few months battling lung cancer and enduring chemotherapy he has continued a busy life. There are days with nausea, dizziness and fatigue, but my old man has been pressing on doing home renovations which is a hobby and work he’s done in his retirement to avoid insanity from sitting around doing nothing.
I’ve had many people ask, “How’s your dad doing?” I’ll tell them stories of how he continues to work and be active. Many have been amazed at his activity and persistence at his age. The thing I keep telling them is, “It will take a lot more than cancer to get him to slow down.”
There’s something about this stubbornness that is inspiring. No doubt, anyone battling cancer or other chronic or terminal illnesses can be inspired to fight hard each day. But we all need a little stubbornness in our lives, no matter what.
It’s easy to give in to our opponents. It’s easy to say, “touche…I give up…you got me.”
When you’re trying to get out of debt and the ease of charging “one more time” tempts you.
When you’re trying to lose weight and the holiday feast gatherings begin.
When you’re trying to work through hardships in relationships and the other person seems unwilling.
When you’re working your life’s dream plan and the obstacles seem bigger than the dream itself.
Foe after foe and obstacle after obstacle. Distractions. Temptations. Disruptions. Simply being too tired to go on.
I have to ask you. Are you stubborn enough?
You have a choice to refuse to give in and surrender. You don’t have to acknowledge that your opponent has touched you to the point that you’re giving up. You have a choice to keep trying, keep fighting, keep creating, keep working and keep growing. Anything short of stubbornness may simply allow relationships, dreams and impact to die.
Today my dad will get an update on how his treatments are progressing and the next steps. I know he’s tired of chemotherapy, but regardless of what report he gets from a doctor, he won’t be giving up anytime soon. He’s way too stubborn.
Follow my dad’s example. Don’t give up. Be stubborn.
If we are going to talk about making an impact on this blog, I want to let you in on two places that have captured my heart.
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about my first mission trip to the Czech Republic back in 2004. Earlier this week I booked my tickets to return. I’ll be traveling with a couple of American friends in February. We’ll visit with our Czech friends in an effort to encourage them. Christians are rare in Czech Republic and it easy for our brothers and sisters there to feel isolated when it comes to living for Jesus. When we go to the city of Brno, it can be a powerful encouragement to our Czech Christian friends.
I will share more as the trip approaches in a few months, including some long-term dreams I have for mission work there.
Another way God has convicted me is through orphan care. As a single man, for me that is primarily through sponsorships of orphans around the world with organizations like World Vision, Christian Relief Fund and the 100X Foundation. I’m excited to announce, “It’s a boy.” This week I joined the mission of 100 X in supporting a young man named Patrick who is in the equivalent of twelfth grade in Malawi.
I’m blessed to be surrounded by many at my church as well as several close friends that have chosen to adopt and end the hopelessness in the lives of the children they now call sons and daughters. It’s an awesome privilege to see God transforming so many hearts toward adoption, fostering, and so many other ways to care for orphans.
Caring for orphans and widows was not a good idea presented in Scripture. It’s a command.James 1:27 Granted, that may look differently for everyone, but it should be a part of who we are as followers of Jesus.
Today I want to be a resource for you. Here are a few organizations doing great things for orphans in the world. If you have others, please list them. Let’s share ideas today and reach into places God can use us to make a greater impact.
I wrote about this last week, but I am on a personal retreat. I’m located at a secure, undisclosed location. I’m not at Dick Cheney’s hideout. Actually as I’m writing this post pre-retreat, I’m not sure where the location of this cabin is. I have to get directions. I know it’s a secure place because I asked Joe if his cabin was they type of place you see in horror movies. He said no and that I would probably have good wireless connection. I hope to be a little more isolate to avoid the temptation of checking on the outside world.
This is my daily schedule for the retreat.
Spend time with God in the Word, prayer and worship.
Learn wisdom from great leaders.
Export my dreams, passions and ideas to paper and see if any of these connect. Continue Reading…
“Your greatest impact may be helping someone develop into who God wants them to be.”
While I believe that statement, I meant it for you, not for me.
I’ve been a Twitter nerd for two years and approaching my 5,000th tweet. My Twitter habits are quoting, (or ‘re-Tweeting’) brilliant quotes, writing humorous observations and occasionally I get convicted and share it. When convicted, I share with others so I won’t have to go it alone. Seriously, it’s more about sharing what God is pressing into my heart so maybe others can learn and avoid the lapses in wisdom I’ve had. Like preventative medicine.
Today I shared an observation about selfishness.
“Selfish people eventually get what they want. Themselves. Time erodes relationships and they’re left alone.”
Soon after I heard from my ‘Digi-friend’, Chris. I’ve never met Chris. We somehow bumped into each other on Twitter and follow each other. Though we don’t know each other, Chris has prayed for my dad as he battles cancer. I’ve returned the favor by praying for some of his requests too; A positive of social media among believers. Continue Reading…
Today I had lunch with my friend, Britton. He is a very talented 19 year old college sophomore. Over the last few years, Britton has been growing as a spiritual leader and worship leader. He has an incredible heart for God and is committed to be a true disciple of Jesus.
We met at Moe’s for big burritos. I asked him to give thanks for the food, though it probably needed a blessing of Lipitor as well. As Britton prayed I was immediately humbled. He prayed with thanksgiving for me and our friendship. He prayed for me to be an influence in my ministry at Landmark. Continue Reading…
2 On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. Genesis 2:2 NLT
Unfortunately, I think “Sabbath” has been reduced to only an Old Testament word. Sabbath literally means, “to cease.” Genesis 2 gives us a picture of God resting, but also making His day of rest holy. It was to be different. Rather than creating, it was time to step back, observe and enjoy His creation.
I hope you enjoyed the videos yesterday from Catalyst over the years. I want to share three more with you today, from the perspective of three Christian authors and leaders in various ways. Donald Miller, Andy Stanley and Francis Chan.
I would write more, but these guys say it better than me, don’t you think?
Donald Miller
Andy Stanley
Francis Chan
Powerful thoughts.
Questions for you today…
As you listen to these guys talk, which point resonates with you the most?
Who are the authors, speakers, thinkers etc… that inspire you the most?
Would love to hear your feedback on the videos from yesterday and today. See you back here on Monday.
In 2005 I attended Catalyst for the first time. For three years straight I was there.
2007 was the last time I attended Catalyst. It was not a pleasant experience. Not because of the event, but because it was when I began to have a personal breakdown. I was dealing with burn-out, depression, and had been confronted by a friend over some major issues of integrity in my life. It seemed as though my world was falling apart.
Four years later, I am so excited to return. I’m excited about an incredible event and opportunity to learn and be challenged. However, this year I’m going back and I’m in a spiritually, emotionally healthy place. I have no secrets. I have nothing before me except two days to celebrate God’s redemption in my life over the last few years.
I have talked about and taught about God being merciful and full of grace for years. It was four years ago when things came unraveled that actually put me in a position not to talk about mercy and grace from education, but from experience.
This year at Catalyst will be sweeter than ever before. This year will be a celebration of God in me, not just God around me.
What is it that makes Catalyst so great? It’s a gathering of 13,000 plus Christian leaders. Most are in churches, but some are from businesses, schools and other organizations. It’s a gathering where top Christian authors, pastors, thinkers as well as some who are not known for their Christian worldview, but are leaders in the nation, share their perspective and challenge us all to make an impact.
3 Things Catalyst does well.
Fun – Definitely the most fun conference I’ve ever attended. One year we saw Knights from Medieval Times and had a band play a Beatles medley. All of that just to introduce a speaker from England. My first two years the entire conference set world records recorded by Guiness. First, we had 12,000 people sit on whoopee cushions all at once. The second year, we had airline pillows and fought the world’s largest pillow fight. Catalyst creates an amazing environment of fun. Here’s a fun video from last year starring Christian artist and songwriter Chris Tomlin.
Inspirational – Watch this video. What more can I say?
Challenging – There are many top leaders, influencers and world changers that lead and attend Catalyst. It’s a convergence of amazing energy and focus from powerful leaders. We learn about global needs and opportunities. We respond. Watch this video.
As I said yesterday, I want this blog to be a place where we get creative and think about how God could work in our lives to do amazing things in our relationships, leadership and impact the world. Catalyst is the place I need to be for the next couple of days to be filled with ideas and inspiration. I’ll give you more information tomorrow and a full report next week.
Questions for you today…
Where do you go to find inspiration?
Who are the people in your life that you consider strong leaders and world changers?
I write this blog because I'm convinced God can use our creativity and lead us to greater
Relationships, Leadership and Impact
in the world. I'm convinced everything can be done better when we think outside the box. Whatever the status of these areas in your life, think outside the box from here to better.
About 5 minutes after I wrote yesterday’s post, I saw this quote.
