A rant

When did it become okay to talk on your cell phone in the library? Bizarre.

A Christmas Greeting

Meant to post this earlier...a thank you to all who have supported us this past year in both prayer and financially.  Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!  Peace.

Christmas Images

Couple of Christmas shots taken around the neighborhood, that triggered a few thoughts...

Obviously, this scene was not intended to look like this by the owners of said nativity set.  However, I think it does speak to our current situation. 
Let me digress/explain...first, let me say that Joseph in the Bible is an absolute stud, who probably does not get the recognition he deserves.  I mean what guy would stick by his girl when she claims to have been impregnated by the Holy Spirit?  Joseph does not abandon her.  He does not shame her.  He sticks by her.  However, in our culture today we have far too few Josephs.  Whereas Joseph assuredly was in awe and wonder of the Christ child, as Mary is exhibiting in this photo, many of today's men (Christians included) are more comfortable taking the posture of Joseph in this picture, instead of worshiping Jesus.  Men need to be leading the charge, not laying on their backs.  Too many of us men sit idly by, embracing a passive approach to the faith.  I know I'm ranting a bit, and I'm probably reading into the photo too much, but when I passed this scene I had to go back and get my camera. I hope things change.  I hope God uses our church plant to raise up Godly men who lead their families and the church well..

This second photo was taken a few mornings ago while out on a walk with Caspian.  I passed it and had to go back and snap a picture.  Though the lights don't show up well in the shot, I love the way these folks were connecting Christmas with the bigger redemptive story of Jesus and the Cross.  It was a good reminder for me that during this season we are not just celebrating a little baby as an end in itself.  This little baby would grow up into a man.  He would live a sinless life.  He would satisfy the wrath of God by bearing this cross.  I hope we all take some time this Christmas season not only to reflect on the gift of the baby, but also on the gift of the cross.  Without the cross there would be nothing ultimately to celebrate. 

the awakening power of ART

Though this post is about a week late, as we saw David Wilcox in concert last Monday, I wanted to capture a few thoughts.  Besides the fact that I am pretty much a Wilcox groupie, there is something about art that is fascinating to me.  The way it communicates in ways that go beyond my normal, everyday experiences.  In fact it makes the normal, everyday things better.  Heather and I, in the self-reflective moments in the car after a concert, find the conversation is always better.  Things come into focus.  I'm sure there is some scientific reason behind what art does to somebody...I have no thoughts to offer there...I just know, on an experiential, existential level that it is good for the soul.  I also realize that art is not relegated to concerts in the singer-songwriter, folk category.  My encouragement would be to find something that does move your soul.  Maybe you are more of a high art person.  Maybe you love strolling through museums.  Whatever it is, art is a gift from God.  Seeing the human condition played out in a painting, a song, a sculpture...they all reflect the Imago Dei...the creatures creating like their CREATOR.  Something powerful about that. 

Vision360 Video

Download sermon :: Stand in Awe

In case you're interested, here is the mp3 of the sermon I preached at CrossPointe a few weeks ago.  It comes from Ecclesiastes 5:1-7, and is part of a series at CrossPointe entitled Living Beyond the Sun.

Download _stand_in_awe____ecclesiastes_5_17.mp3

Winter Park Boat Parade

Though our girls have been sick most of the weekend, we were able to
get out for a bit tonight.  We are glad we did.  We spotted a sign
earlier today announcing the Winter Park Boat Parade
and so tonight we headed over to Dinky Dock on Lake Virginia.  We ate
our Chik-fil-a, sat on a blanket on the beach and watched a boat parade
through the chain of lakes.  There were probably 100 or so people at
this location.  It was a good communal event.  People talked, kids hung
out...it was festive...Florida style.  I had been bemoaning the weather
and the lack of Christmas feel, but tonight was good.  It also reminded
me that people really love their community.  I have heard this
sentiment expressed several times over the past couple of days...I am
grateful to be here, though often not as grateful as I should be.
Excited about planting a church that contextualizes the Gospel in and
for this community. 

The Tree is up

Making sense of the Emerging Church

Darrin Patrick of the Journey in St. Louis recently did some lectures at Covenant Seminary on the history and nature of the emerging church.  I found it to be very well informed and well balanced.  He spoke to the positive contributions of the emerging church as well as the concerns.  There seemed to be a posture of humility as he spoke about this controversial topic.  I highly recommend downloading the lectures, especially if you keep hearing this term "emerging church" and have no idea what it's all about. 

You can download the lectures by visiting here.

Megachurches Add Local Economy to Their Mission - New York Times

Very interesting article. I think it raises all sort of questions--in a good way. Should this be the mission of the church? Are these endeavors effective or though well intentioned, do they create further lines of demarcation between culture and church culture? I don't offer these questions to imply that I know the answers. I really have these questions. I am admittedly very intrigued by these type of church expressions, but wonder about the implications.

Link: Megachurches Add Local Economy to Their Mission - New York Times.

Stand in Awe :: Ecclesiastes 5:1-7

Well yesterday I had the privilege of preaching at CrossPointe.  We are currently going through the book of Ecclesiastes and I was assigned Ecclesiastes 5:1-7.  I will post the audio recording when it becomes available, but in the meantime I have uploaded the slides I used during the teaching. 

It was a really good experience and exercise for me.  I am definitely not used to giving the same teaching twice in one morning.  That will probably be a non-issue for quite some time, as I don't anticipate multiple services in the early days of the church plant.  I somewhat struggle with feeling like the second hour does not go as well as the first.  I think I believe it's not fresh and authentic because I have heard it before--I tend to forget that no one else has heard it.  Not sure if that makes sense to anyone else.  All in all though I am really thankful for the experience.  It was fun to teach in a new environment.  I think the biggest challenge and growth area for me was being given a passage.  I didn't get to just teach on whatever was on my heart (as in previous sermons), but rather had to wrestle through the passage I was assigned.  This was a good discipline for me as it forced me to dig a bit deeper, particularly as it pertained to the overall cohesiveness of the message. 

I was definitely worn out yesterday.  I had forgotten how much preaching takes out of you.  I have great appreciation for those who do it every week.  I can't imagine those who do 3 + live services every weekend!  I would be drinking way too much Red Bull to make it through.

In the paper

Well on Friday, the family ventured over to Jefferson Pointe mall in Ft. Wayne, IN.  While there, some folks from the local newspaper were interviewing people about their shopping plans, etc.  They took this picture of Heather's mom with Sydnie and Mackinley.  They also interviewed her.  You can check the article out by clicking here. 

Sydnie thought it was really cool when she saw herself in the paper on Saturday.  We're hoping it doesn't go to her head.

Preaching & Triads

As someone who doesn't yet preach every week, it's always a challenging (albeit enjoyable) process.  I'm sure it will always be that way.  It's been helpful to try and think through the sermon from 3 perspectives or areas of emphasis...

Orthodoxy :: This concerns the area of right doctrine and right teaching.  This is getting at what the text is actually saying.

Orthopathos :: This concerns the area of right emotions.  The sermon needs to connect with the hearts of people. 

Orthopraxis :: This concerns the area of right actions or application.  The sermon needs to have some practical implications for living as a Christ follower in the 21st century.

Obviously, it's easy to lean heavily on one part, but the best preachers seem to incorporate all three.  For more on this topic check out this helpful download here.

Happy Thanksgiving!

A brief recap/update

Well I have definitely been a blog slacker as of late. Ever since we returned from assessment things have gotten much busier. All good things. In somewhat random order...

--started a Wednesday night community group through CrossPointe. Really enjoying thus far as God has brought a good group together.

--Started our Explore group at our house on Sunday nights. Really enjoying that time both on a relational level and challenging topics to discuss level. You can read more details at http://reneworlando.org

--I am preaching this Sunday for the first time at CrossPointe. Ecclesiastes 5:1-7. I will let you know how it goes. Looking forward to it.

--I am on iPhone number two as of last Thursday. First one died and they swapped it out.

--Home addition is moving along. Will be uploading some new pics soon. We are really excited about the space. Trying to figure out what kind of shower fixture defines us :)

--We are up in Ohio as of tonight for Thanksgiving. Good Midwest weather. Possible snow tonight. Sort of as it should be.

--I will no longer have Lloyd Carr to grumble about. Interesting to see who Michigan hires next.

--Have watched Rob Bell's "Everything is Spiritual" DVD and attended his latest speaking tour last night entitled "The gods aren't angry anymore." Recommend the former, not so sure about the latter. Still processing.

I know that's not everything but at least I'm back blogging. Peace.

I can't believe the Lions are 6-2

Interesting article on the Lion's quarterback, John Kitna.

Link: ESPN Page 2 - Hill: Believing in God's quarterback.

Neighborhood meeting

Small town America at work. I'm sitting in the cafeteria of our local elementary school for a "conversation" about building plans. Crazy how heated these things get. Kind of brings out the worst at times. Kind of fun though.

Updated observation :: The presenters underestimated the passion of people for our neighborhood. It was clear that people picked the neighborhood far more than the actual house when they chose to move in. This will be incredibly important for me to keep in mind as we try and contextualize the Gospel in our area. Last night helped solidify in my mind the values of our community. These things have to be on the forefront of my mind and those who will join this mission.

Maybe Halloween should happen more often?

I realize I'm a few days slow in getting this post together, but Halloween strikes me as something that should happen more frequently.  Not really the dressing up part.  Definitely not the kids hyped up on candy part either.  More the getting to know your neighbors part.  I think we have definitely lost something when some bizarre, quasi-pagan holiday is what gets us talking and visiting with neighbors.  Don't get me wrong...I don't want people knocking on my door every few minutes, but I was reminded of the blessing of community this past week.  We are very grateful for our neighborhood and are quite thankful that we all do talk more than once per year.  However, it isn't surprising that God would use something "childish" to point towards community.  Kids just love mixing it up with people.  Somehow that gets lost and fades over time.  That really is too bad. 

So here's to more neighborhood involvement, minus the costumes and rotting teeth!

October Pics

October pictures have been added.  Click here to view.

Brian & Kirsten...having a girl!

Congrats!  We are so happy for you!  Girl cousins abound.

Everything is Spiritual

I was at middle school camp when this tour came through our area.  I've been wanting to see it for sometime and now it's available on DVD. 

 

Church Planting Assessment Recap

The following is my random thoughts and reflections on our time last week at the church planting assessment center.  I'm probably writing this more for myself, but if it's of interest to you, then keep reading.

Both Heather and I were pretty anxious and nervous prior to getting up there.  What if we got a poor recommendation?  For us it was weird because we felt like we had already headed down this church planting path, and what if we were told to turn around?  We felt pretty invested already, and so we worried what God would teach us.

As mentioned in a previous post, I also found myself, especially before it started, failing to live in light of the Gospel.  Deep down I struggled with an identity issue based on the assessors thoughts about me as a leader.  I know this will always be a struggle--to want to get better and steward what God has given me and at the same time be fully satisfied in who I am in Christ. 

It was intense from the outset.  Upon arriving, I found out I would be preaching a 10 minute mini-sermon.  Apparently I missed that email somehow, and so I just stared at the lady with one of those dazed and confused looks.  About 30 minutes later, after scrambling to put something together, I was up "preaching".  Crazy.  God was very good and after spending some time talking and praying with Heather, He gave me a peace.  I honestly think God wanted to cultivate a spirit of prayer and following His leading from the very outset.  It's not how I would have planned it, but I am thankful in hindsight. 

The next morning (Tuesday) brought my time to share my philosophy of
ministry.  Although I had missed this email as well, I felt okay about
this.  Not because I just know this stuff intuitively, but because this
is the stuff I've been having to work through as part of the
apprenticeship.  Sharing the vision and philosophy was a vivid reminder
of how blessed I am to be at CrossPointe for this season of my life. 

After these two initial "presentations", we began more exercises
with our team.  They put us in groups to discuss church planting
scenarios, planting strategy, etc.  All the while the assessors were
watching and taking notes, observing how we communicated, how we
asserted ourselves as leaders, etc.  Thankfully you just get immersed
in the project and kind of forget you are being watched.  It was still
weird though. 

We also spent a lot of time going over our personality and strength
tests.  It was fascinating to see the variety amongst the 40 people who
were there.  I was reminded and encouraged that there is no one
caricature of a church planter.  God uses all sorts of people and
situations.  The best thing I can do is to operate in my strengths and
leverage who God has created me to be for His kingdom.  Me trying to be
somebody else is not good for anybody.  These tests also prompted some
really good conversations for Heather and I as a couple.  It was as if
in the middle of a crazy time, God allowed me to hit "pause" and be
grateful for the gift that is Heather.  We are truly meant to do this
together. 

Speaking of Heather, and because she would never brag, I will do it
for her...she was great the whole time.  She led in her own unique
way.  She communicated well and spoke with poignant honesty and
candidness during our interview times.  I could hear the Gospel message
in her own life.  She challenges me to be a better Christ follower.
She was a great encouragement to me.  Hearing her re-tell where God has
brought us over the past few months, in regards to church planting, it
was so evident that God is in this.  He has knit our hearts together,
and for that I am extremely grateful. 

We also had the great joy of getting to know many of the other
"candidates" (i.e. lab rats/church planters).  I can't wait to hear the
stories of how God will use these men and women to further His
kingdom.  I worried the whole experience might be uber-competitive and
cut-throat--inadvertently viewing the other candidates as the
competition.  I never felt that was the case.  I think we all had the
same desires, fears and passion for planting.  I was challenged and
encouraged by all the interactions. 

As mentioned before, the church planter caricature dissolved a bit
for me.  Sure there are certain characteristics church planters have in
common (this is part of what they look for at the assessment), but
there was also great diversity.  People led in different ways.  People
had different visions and philosophies.  I really felt like Jesus'
prayer in John 17 was being answered in some small way--we were unified
in the essentials.  We want people to know Jesus.  To experience the
power of the Gospel.

Lastly, I was glad for both the encouragement and the challenges I
was given at the end.  I have some definite things to work on (personal
evangelism, leader development, strategy), and for those I would ask
for your prayer.  I really want to grow and I am thankful for the many
folks who spoke truth into my life last week.

Well I've probably "reflected" long enough.  If you are still reading, I am quite impressed.   

Analysis of Paralysis

Link: Analysis of Paralysis | Printer-friendly version.

This kind of thinking is going to be key in starting and leading a church. Do people know where you are taking them? Is the process simple?

Coming home

Well we are sitting on the runway ready to fly home. The assessment is 

over. We are very excited, relieved and a bit tired. Our "reality tv 

show" is now over. Nice to have the evaluations finished. Thanks for your 

prayers--we definitely felt them.

A picture from Wisconsin

I'm way too tired to really blog right now, but thought I'd post a pic

from the place we are staying. Absolutely beautiful.

Off to Wisconsin for assessment

It is 6:30am and we are on a plane right now. Not sure what to expect

from this trip, but we'd certainly appreciate your prayers. We will

try and update, but not sure how much time we will have.

C.S. Lewis quote

"comfort is the one thing you cannot get by looking for it. If you look for truth, you may find comfort in the end: if you you look for comfort you will not get either comfort or truth--only soft soap and wishful thinking to begin with and, in the end, despair."

--"Mere Christianity"

Not sure how I made it through Wheaton without reading this book, but i finally broke down and bought it. I am finding that I am glad I did.

American Idolatry

Thought this was a really intriguing post from a Mark Driscoll teaching.  I think it's right on.

the Paradox of Freedom

Been reading John Stott's little book called Why I am a Christian, and appreciated the following quote:

This brings us to a startling human paradox.  Let me state it simply like this: true freedom is freedom to be my true self, as God made me and meant me to be.  But God made me for loving, and loving is giving, self-giving.  Therefore, in order to be myself, I have to deny myself and give myself in love for God and others.  In order to be free, I have to serve.  I order to live, I have to die to my own self-centeredness.  In order to find myself I have to lose myself in loving.  I have read somewhere that Michelangelo put it beautifully in these words, "When I am yours, then at last I am completely myself."  For I am not myself until I am yours (God's and others).

Again this is the radically subversive, and counter-intuitive nature and beauty of the Gospel. 

Just announced

As promised, some time ago, our pre-launch church plant website is ready for your viewing pleasure.  You can check it out at reneworlando.org

So please check it out, knowing that just because it's on a website doesn't mean it is set in the proverbial stone.  However, it may give you an inside look at what we have been thinking and praying about.  Please feel free to post some comments or email me with any thoughts or questions you have.  Even better, let's get together and talk if you are in the Orlando area. 

There is much work to do--in fact, this is the easy stuff.  The tough stuff will be actually trying to live out this vision and implement in our context.  Conceptual is fun, but not all that difficult.  This is why we need people to partner with us.  So please visit the partner with us section to see different ways you can get involved.  Please sign up for our monthly newsletter if you are not already on our mailing list.  We'd love to keep you connected and share our specific prayer needs.  Hope to hear from you soon!

Feeling like I'm in a Box

Next week Heather and I head out to a 4 day church planting assessment center.  In preparation for that I've had to fill out a bunch of paperwork and take 7 PERSONALITY TYPE TESTS!  I know they can be helpful, but if I never see another one of those things again I will be okay with it.  By the end I just wanted to get through.  I don't know if they got more accurate or more convoluted.  Who knows.  What I do know is that I'm tired and the real assessment has yet to even begin.  If you think of it, please pray for us October 22-25. 

It's crazy, but it was hard to believe the truth of the Gospel at times this past week.  It's like these tests have a way of telling you everything you are not--at least that is my disposition towards them.  It became difficult to feel fully satisfied with who I am in Christ, if I can be blatantly honest.   I know God is using this season of my life to grow me up and to trust in Him more than me, but it's crazy hard at times.  This is why I'm so convinced that the I need a daily work of the Gospel.  It has to be more than the ABC's of salvation, but the A to Z of life.  Without this daily Gospel in-breaking I am prone to believe the results of an online test--or at least my interpretation of them. 

However, God has been very good to me despite my quasi-existential crisis.  It's as if He's reminding me that if this church plant actually gets traction and gets going, it will be in spite of me.  I guess that's a good realization to have.  God seems to like to use our weaknesses to display His strength. 

Peace.

Our new master bath

Egypt

So in my "read through the Bible in a year" plan, I am currently in Isaiah.  I've read it before.  I've taken some classes on it.  I'm still not sure I get a lot of it.  However, a passage sort of jumped out this morning.  Here it is:

Woe to Those Who Rely on Egypt

Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help,
who rely on horses, who trust in the multitudes of their chariots
and in the great strength of their horsemen,
but do not look to the Holy One of Israel,
or seek help from the Lord.

Taking a brief moment to remember the context, one quickly calls to mind the fact that the Jews were once enslaved in Egypt.  This was the place they left in the great exodus.  They had been given their freedom, and now they seem to want to go back.  They want to rely on all that place represented.  Its apparent strength and status, rather than seeking the Lord.  I'm glad things are so different today.  I'm glad I never long for my place of enslavement, falsely believing that will satisfy.  I'm glad I always seek the Lord.  I'm glad I never trust in myself or the things of this world.  I'm glad there are no horses or chariots to trust today.  I'm also glad I have the gift of sarcasm. 

So interesting that we have such a hard time with true freedom.  We falsely believe in the promises of "Egypt", not realizing we are enslaved.  It's a beautiful thing that the Cross of Jesus never stops wanting to free us, even when we chase after the wrong things.  The demonstration of this freedom is perhaps our best apologetic in an increasingly post-Christian world.   

The Return

Lest you be confused by the previous post, I can't wait until Heather gets home.  2 hours and counting.  I am worn out.  The girls are really excited as well that she's coming home. 

The weekend has included the following:

Dunkin Donuts (2x)
Mellow Mushroom
Qudoba
Shane's Barbeque
Chik-Fil-A
...and one large energy drink for me (thanks to Brian).

The beauty of kids

Having taken care of the kids all weekend and taught the 1st-5th graders at CrossPointe this morning, I was reminded of this quote I have posted before.  I think it is quite profound...obviously not from me:

Interestingly, “growing up” is largely a matter of learning to hide our spirit behind our face, eyes, and language so that we can evade and manage others to achieve what we want and avoid what we fear.  By contrast, the child’s face is a constant epiphany because it doesn’t yet know how to do this.  It cannot manage its face.  This is also true of adults in moments of great feeling—which is one reason why feeling is both greatly treasured and greatly feared. 

Those who have attained considerable spiritual stature are frequently noted for their “childlikeness.”  What this really means is that they do not use their face and body to hide their spiritual reality.  In their body they are genuinely present to those around them.  That is a great spiritual attainment or gift.

The Divine Conspiracy, Dallas Willard, p. 76

Dance Party w/Dad

Construction is underway!

Great connections

This week has been quite eventful and encouraging as I've had the opportunity to connect with several leaders in Orlando regarding church planting.  It started off on Monday night at the Vision 360 dinner.  This was the first time Heather and I got to connect with the staff and board members of our sending network.  This truly is a movement of God in our city and around the world.  Can't even put into words the Kingdom heart that these people have--they are so enthusiastic about church planting.  As we heard stories and got a further glimpse of the vision, I had this overwhelming sense that I have no idea what I've stumbled into.  This thing is so much bigger than our church plant.  It was obvious to me that God has put us here and that it has nothing to do with my planning or skill.  It is simply His gift and His grace. 

Then Wednesday I got the opportunity to connect with a pastor named Jason Dukes.  Jason pastors Westpoint Church.  Just love that God keeps allowing me to connect with like-minded leaders who share a vision for our city--I have much to learn from all of these people.  The reason for the meeting was to find out about a very intriguing coffeehouse concept Jason and his church pioneered.  They want to be intentional about being missional and creating points of intersection with the culture.  To that end they started House Blend Cafe.  It is their pilot location and they hope to spread the concept into other contexts.  Well if you take the time to link over to the House Blend Cafe site you will read about an idea that resonates with me because it is one of my hopes for the Winter Park area.  Once I stumbled upon their website I just had to connect with whoever was behind this.  My meeting did not disappoint.  I'll keep you posted, but this is what I want to see happen in our context.  I love the idea of resources, building, etc. being a reflection of a church's desire to live missionally.  It's a very creative and practical expression of how the church is not something one attends on a Sunday morning.

If you're in the Orlando area, and you want to talk more about any of this, I'd love to connect.  Shoot me an email at jamierhart@gmail.com  The information site for the church plant should be live in a few days.  I'll let you know when it's ready to go.  It'll give you more information about the vision and mission of the church plant and how you can get connected and partner with us.

Survival Weekend

Getting my blogging in now, as Heather departs for St. Louis (gone until Sunday night) in a few short hours--which means dad is flying solo with the 2 kids!  Mellow Mushroom and Dunkin Donuts here we come, but probably not much time for blogging.  Hopefully you'll hear from me early next week...if I survive. 

David Wilcox Concert & Podcast

You have no idea how excited I was when I saw a tour update on David Wilcox's website declaring that he will be playing in Florida!  Of course I already have my tickets, and you should get yours.  It's a great, but small venue called Cafe' 11 in St. Augustine.  Can't wait.  If you've never heard him you should definitely check out his music (which you can get on iTunes). 

Was also excited to find a podcast interview with Wilcox.  The link is here.  Started listening to it and very good thus far. 

Two things I've been looking forward to...

The new book from the Fermi Project called unchristian.  Check out the videos below for more information behind the book and the motivation for the project.

The second is the latest David Crowder Band offering, Remedy.  Get it on iTunes here.

New Eyes

The past few days have afforded me the opportunity to see things from a new or fresh perspective.  Here are the two anecdotes...

One happened on Friday night when we returned home from our vacation to Boone, NC.  As the twelve hour drive came to a close, and we started hitting some of the familiar streets of Winter Park and our neighborhood, I found myself seeing the area with new eyes.  I really like our area.  Granted, there are no mountains, and a few months of the year it is crazy hot, but all in all I like it.  I like that being away brings a refreshed perspective.  I like winding back to our neighborhood.  I see more character here than I sometimes realize.  It's a pretty cool place.  It gets me excited about church planting here.  The area has much to offer and much potential.  I've also recently re-discovered an old college band cd that offers the following line in one of their songs:
        Sure there are many places much prettier than this
        With mountain streams and glaciers

        But I've got the sun, the moon, and the stars
        And the one thing I know...He put me here.

Not a bad way to view things.

The second moment happened yesterday at CrossPointe.  Chan was preaching on faithfulness and the idea that it is closely related to integrity.  To have integrity is to be undivided.  Not compartmentalized.  To be whole.  For whatever reason, as we got ready to take communion (which we do every week at CrossPointe--big fan of that), these thoughts returned as I looked upon the broken pieces of bread.  There in that basket of broken bread was this wonderfully counter-intuitive and subversive message...through the broken body of Jesus I am made whole.  I can live an undivided, whole life.  I am invited in.  Somehow, in some way I don't completely understand, Jesus is broken and I get healed and put back together again.  In that moment all seemed right in the world. 

I am thankful that God gives these moments.  I know the feelings and the perspective won't always be there, but I am glad when they do occur. 

Road trip peace

Are Church Plants the most Effective form of Evangelism?

Link: Are Church Plants the most Effective form of Evangelism?.

Great post from a great blog. Helpful insights for both plants and established churches.

Interview: Rob Bell

Link: The Wittenburg Door Interview: Rob Bell

Interesting interview.

Learning to pray :: 3 year old style

For whatever reason I have never been a great prayer-er.  I’m not exactly sure why.  Maybe I don’t always believe it will work.  Maybe my mind wanders so much it is not effective.  Maybe I find it boring at times.  Not sure where to pin-point it exactly, but it has been something as of late I have made an effort to get better at.  So I’m trying to build in some routines.  Some ways to keep my mind and heart focused.  To actually give some space to cultivate a better prayer life.  Some days have been better than others, but all in all it’s been good to be more intentional. 

All of that to say I’m no where near my 3 year old...she knows how to pray and is not afraid to ask for prayer.   She just does it spontaneously, regardless of who is around.  Like today, on the trail, after she had wiped out, she asked for prayer from Heather.  She seems to know that she needed it and believed it would do something.  Not to mention the people that were hiking all around, and the fact that I would be too embarrassed to ask for prayer. 

Then about 30 minutes ago, with Mackinley wailing and unwilling to settle in for her nap, Sydnie ran up to me and said “Dad, we should pray for Mackie.”  So she did.  She asked God to help her calm down and get a good nap.  2 minutes later not a peep was heard from Mackinley. 

Ah, to believe like a child.  I have much to learn in this area, but I am grateful I have a three year old to help show me the way.   

Pastoral Licensing :: video

For the masses of people that would want to see it, below is the video footage from my licensing at CrossPointe. 

September 2007 photo album has been added

Michigan football

Finally a victory. Not sure how much it means, but at least its a

start. I won't be sporting my Michigan stuff though as I'm currently

in Boone, NC--home of Appalachian State in case you didn't know. Well

here's hoping Michigan can upset Penn State next week.

O how I wish we had Caribou Coffee in Orlando

Road trip

I guess I'm official now...

This past Sunday was pretty cool as I was licensed as a pastor by CrossPointe.  Though this doesn't necessarily change much functionally that I do, it did come with a good exhortation...Chan (the lead pastor) read from 1 Timothy before the elders laid hands on me and prayed.  I am posting the text below, as it is something I don't want to forget.

This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.

Command and teach these things.  Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.  Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.  Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.  Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
--1 Timothy 4:9-16

This is a weighty challenge.  I am thankful that I don't have to do it in my strength.  It was a reminder of my continual need for the Gospel. 

Harts September Newsletter

Dear Friends and Family,

It’s hard to believe it’s September already.  August was a definite whirlwind, but one that was very encouraging for us.  On a daily basis, we feel confirmed that God has us in the right place as we prepare to plant the church He has called us to plant.  Thanks for partnering with us in this great adventure.  You are investing in a new work that is seeking to extend the rule and reign of King Jesus in our city!  We are grateful for your generosity.

Well the planning has begun.  The apprenticeship is in full swing as the past few weeks have been spent praying and dreaming up what God would have us be about. 

Though it is still very much a work in progress, a vision is beginning
to solidify.  The mission is becoming clearer.  Core values are taking
root in our hearts.  Though much of the work has been conceptual thus
far, it has been challenging.  We have received some wise counsel
regarding the importance of this stage.  What is being written down,
discussed, edited, etc. will instill the “DNA” of the church plant.
Please pray for wisdom and that we would listen to God’s leading.  The
next few weeks will focus on defining the discipleship process and
church structure.  We want to architect this well and would appreciate
your prayers in this regard.

Additionally, we will be starting a neighborhood Bible study around the
first week of October.  Please pray that people in our neighborhood
would be receptive to participating and that the Gospel would take root
more deeply in all of our lives.  We are thankful that we have been
able to connect more intentionally over the past few weeks with many in
our neighborhood over a shared meal at our house. 

We hope to have a website up and going soon that can provide you with
additional information and more content regarding the specifics of the
vision and mission.  In the meantime, feel free to check out the family
blog at http://jamiehart.typepad.com  You can read what has been on
Jamie’s mind or just look at pictures of the kids (probably the more
interesting option). 

Hope all is well with you.  Please email or call if there’s anything
you’d like to discuss or ways we can help or pray for you.  Thanks
again for your sacrificial support!

May the Peace of Christ Be With You,

Jamie & Heather

Tim Keller Resources :: you got to check it out

Link: Reformissionary: Tim Keller Resources.

Great, great resource that I benefit from all the time.

Influencing Culture

At the end of this post you will find a link where you can download a very thought provoking article from Gabe Lyons of the Fermi Project.  It's long, but well worth the read.  You're welcome to just skip my thoughts and read the article, but for what it's worth...

I resonate with so much of the article.  The idea that the church should reclaim it's voice and influence in culture, rather than create a freakish sub-culture is beautiful.  I can't possibly over-emphasize how much I want this type of mindset to permeate the church plant.  I hope the church has an influence beyond simply people "getting saved"--as important as this is and needs to be emphasized.  As Christ followers we should be agents of change, working in a winsome and creative manner to allow the Kingdom of God to be more fully known and experienced.  I also love that the article makes it clear that "real ministry" is not exclusive to those who vocationally work for a church, etc.  If I had a different vocation, I would want desperately to participate in a Christian community that encourages me to influence the vocational sphere God has put me in...believing that it is not by chance, but rather strategic. 

Is this all leading to a big "but"???  Sort of.  For me, I just need to hold the idea of influencing influencers in check.  I need to make sure I don't just spend time with people with some cultural sway.  I also need to spend time with those who (from a human perspective) don't have much leverage.  People who may never be on the cutting edge.  People who are marginalized.  People who are overlooked.  People that Jesus seems to have spent time with. 

It'll be a tricky balance, but one I hope the church plant can work towards.  Being both strategic and intentional without losing love and compassion.  I think the most helpful thing is a fresh dose of reality, as I realize that I was not chosen by God because of my influence, etc.  There is nothing special about me, but yet God "stooped down to my level"--I guess it just comes back to living in light of the Gospel and not making this an either/or situation. 

Download influencing_culture.pdf

Football season over before it even began

Why am I not even surprised? So is the plight of the Michigan fan.

Terrible.

Haircut day...Mackinley's first

August Pics

New pics for August.  Click here to view.

Great resource :: Trombone Player Wanted

Marcus Buckingham has made the first 2 chapters of his short film series, Trombone Player Wanted, available for free via iTunes. 

Click here to download

I highly recommend these films and his books.  If you don't know, Buckingham advocates identifying your strengths and then playing to them.  There are several online tests you can take to assist--you buy one of his books and then receive an access code.

Oversight :: Gospel neglect

I recently started reading The Reformed Pastor by Richard Baxter, first published in 1656.  Crazy old.  It is hard to read at times because of the "old English" but it has been very thought provoking.  It's more than thought provoking, it's more like a verbal beating (in a good way) for young pastors.  Here's a few quotes from the opening pages...talk about setting the tone...

• Take heed to yourselves, lest you be void of that saving grace of God which you offer to others, and be strangers to the effectual working of that gospel which you preach; and lest, while you proclaim to the world the necessity of a Saviour, our own hearts should neglect him, and you should miss of an interest in him and his saving benefits.  Take heed to yourselves, lest you perish, while you call upon others to take heed of perishing; and lest you famish yourselves while you prepare food for them.

• ...many a preacher is now in hell, who hath a hundred times called upon his hearers to use the utmost care and diligence to escape it.

• Believe it, brethren, God never saved any man for being a preacher, nor because he was an able preacher; but because he was a justified, sanctified man, and consequently faithful in his Master's work.  Take heed, therefore, to yourselves first, that you be that which you persuade your hearers to be, and believe that which you persuade them to believe, and heartily entertain that Saviour whom you offer to them.

• Oh what aggravated misery is this, to perish in the midst of plenty! -- to famish with the bread of life in our hands, while we offer it to others, and urge it on them!

I feel like God is wanting me to rediscover the personal nature of the Gospel.  I think I may have had "kingdom on the brain" for so long, that I have lost some of the personal aspect.  Does that make sense?  I still believe the Gospel is more than just saving individual souls, but I better not lose that component. 

Free Album Download :: Robbie Seay Band :: Give Yourself Away

Link: RELEVANT MAGAZINE.

Dad date

Triads on the brain and vision planning

As I am working through the initial assignments of putting the church plant vision down on paper, the "triads" or triperspectival approach learned in seminary has been of great help.  Other than being a cool word (triperspectival), it is really quite practical.

The idea is that we should not view things solely from one vantage point.  There exists a "normative" (God's word), a situational (your particular context or community) and an existential (your own personal experience).  Obviously we are not ever to violate God's Word (normative), even if our situational and existential pull is in a certain direction.  However, if something is not violating God's Word, we need to make sure we examine our context and ourselves when making decisions.

Put another way...I have to pay attention and heed the directives given by Scripture pertaining to what a church is called to be.  However, I am not given all the particulars of what this will actually look like.  That is where I need to understand my context or target area (situational) and my own unique personality, strengths, weaknesses, etc. (existential).  It has been fun and challenging to try and align all of these things. 

Ultimately what it is convincing me of is that the church collectively and members individually need to engage  in WORSHIP (normative), engage in COMMUNITY/sharing life (existential) and engage in mission (situational).  I am not sure yet what all of this will look like in our area, but I think this is where we need to head.  My hope is that as people engage in these three environments (worship, community & mission) disciples will be made and the church will be more and more expanding the Kingdom of God. 

Much work left to do, but I am getting excited about where things are heading.  More to come. 

Fiddlers with Nate

Great service

Snapshot from this mornings worship gathering.

What is Art?

Interesting documentary. I've often wondered about this. Check out the trailer.

Dad Date

It's been a good day.  I got a date with my daughter Sydnie this morning.  Nothing like a little Dunkin' Donuts.  This is a good discipline...I mean, the date, not necessarily the donut.

Why to Plant Churches

In case you haven't seen these before, here are two great resources from Tim Keller.  They both cover the same content.  One is the audio of a teaching on this topic, the other is a recap in written form.  Both are worth downloading.  The reasons may surprise you.  I am finding I need to do a better job of articulating these very things.  There are many misconceptions of why to plant a church.  Hope you find it helpful.

Download 01_why_to_plant_churches.mp3

Why to Plant Churches (article)

Soul Spa Recap

Last weekend, Heather and I had the privilege of participating in CrossPointe's annual Soul Spa retreat in Daytona Beach.  It was so good to connect with a core group of the church.  It's like every event/meeting we have only further confirms that God has us in the right place for this season in our life.  There are so many things I'd like to comment on, but I will limit it to one...

One of the most striking aspects of the church is the way the men lead and I'm not just talking about those that get their paycheck from the church (though they are certainly included in this).  I was greatly encouraged and challenged as I watched them worship God exuberantly, pray compassionately over people, embrace people, cry with people, speak the truth in love to people, and all around just love Jesus passionately.  This is not to say the women don't do this (because they do), but it is increasingly rare to find men who aren't embarrassed about their faith.  The men at CrossPointe really seem to be leading the charge.  They don't abdicate their responsibility to lead and shepherd their families.  I have much to learn from these men. 

August Update | Newsletter

Just FYI...here is a copy of our August newsletter.  It's been really cool to see God provide through His people.

Dear Friends and Family,

As many of you can attest, Central Florida + Summer = huge, afternoon thunderstorms.  So the other day I found myself attempting to get out to run some errands when one of these storms rolled in.  There I was in the car, stuck in traffic, as things had come to a screeching halt.  Honestly, I was quite annoyed.  Frustrated that the only thing doing any driving was the rain.  Then, for whatever reason, my perspective shifted.  God brought to mind that rain was not something to be annoyed at, but was a sign of His sustenance and blessing.  In fact, the Scriptures are full of this reality.  In a culture that relied heavily on rain in order to survive, people would make a point of stopping to give thanks  for the rain.  And so, as we start this apprenticeship, we want to thank you whole-heartedly for BEING RAIN FOR US!  In that moment, stuck in traffic, it was as if God said “this is what I am doing for you through your friends and family.” 

Thank you for partnering with us in both prayer and financial support.  It is our intention to keep you all informed at least monthly through these newsletters.  Many of you have asked what exactly I will be doing, so let me take a moment to explain...

August 1st brought the official start of the church planting apprenticeship.  I have spent much of the past couple weeks connecting with other leaders and beginning the work of developing our church planting plan.  The next year is broken into trimesters, with monthly goals.  This first month will be focused on the following areas:

• Develop Vision



• Define Values



• Define Doctrinal Statement



• Timeline and plan for gathering a Core Group

Though this initial work is highly conceptual, it is critical for the success of the plant.  These things will define and shape the church for years to come.  Please pray that the vision and values would be rooted in Scripture.  Please pray that God would grant wisdom as we try to plan for a church that is both faithful and relevant to our context.  Ultimately pray that we would plan and plant the church Jesus wants and not what we want.  We truly feel blessed and are excited about the journey God has us on...thanks for joining us in the journey ahead!

May the Peace of Christ Be With You,

Jamie & Heather

Download august_newsletter.pdf

A good start

Well just finished week #1 of the Church Planting Apprenticeship.  We had a very encouraging week.  Services were great yesterday.  Great energy around the mission of the church.  You could just feel and sense it from people.  Highlight was the Leadership Community gathering last night.  We felt so welcomed and encouraged.  They laid hands on Heather and me and prayed for us.  We felt like we belonged, like we were right where God wants us to be.  He has a way of doing that. 

So this morning I have been hanging out at a coffee shop, tunes playing, laptop out pouring over my church planting notes from the past couple years.  Trying to get the ideas out of my brain and onto paper.  It was one thing to capture any cool anecdote or phrase related to planting, but far more challenging to narrow down what we will actually be about.  I want to make sure I am planning for the church Jesus wants to plant and not the church I want to plant--but the cool thing is that I think there will be some overlap there.  I  need to be faithful to Him and not try and copy someone else's ideas.  I will try and keep the blog updated with different versions of the church plant vision, etc. 

Peace.

Happy Birthday Mackinley

Birthday pics have been posted. Click here to view

I am blessed

Well today is 10 years of marriage for Heather and me!  So cool and so surreal that it has been that long.  I definitely got the better end of this deal.  I remember people telling us soon after we got married that "you think you're in love now, just give it time and the love will increase beyond what you can imagine"--I wasn't really sure I understood what they were saying.  Now I know.  I love Heather even more deeply today than I did back when we said "I do" that hot August day.  She has been a true gift from God.  I know I don't appreciate her as much as I should.  She loves me so well and faithfully.  She is a fantastic mom to our two little girls.  She is beautiful and talented.  I love that we love so many of the same things.  We love spending time together and I am looking forward to what the next 10 years will be like.  She has also exhibited tremendous faith as she agreed to marry a guy who was going into youth ministry and now is heading into the realm of church planting.  There is no way I would have been able to do any of this without her strength.  I am grateful that the past few months have stretched and grown us together even further as we have wrestled through God's plans for my future vocation. 

Heather, thank you for a wonderful first ten years and I look forward to many more!

Also on this date, 1 year ago today, God blessed us with Mackinley!  Happy birthday Mackie! 

Evangelicals seek ‘creators of culture’ role -

This is good to see...

Link: Evangelicals seek ‘creators of culture’ role -

Focus on Faith - MSNBC.com

.

the gods aren't angry tour

We got our tickets. You should get yours.

Link: the gods aren't angry tour.

Motivation is overrated

So I've also been reading through John Maxwell's book Developing the Leader Within You this week.  I found the following quotes particularly striking and somewhat counter-intuitive...

• "Too many people want to feel, then take action.  This never works"

• From a sign in a doctor's office:  "We have news for you.  Motivation is not going to strike you like lightning.  And motivation is not something that someone else--nurse, doctor, family member--can bestow or force on you.  The whole idea of motivation is a trap.  Forget motivation.  Just do it.  Exercise, lose weight, test your blood sugar, or whatever.  Do it without motivation.  And then, guess what?  After you start doing the thing, that's when the motivation comes and makes it easy for you to keep on doing it."

• "Instead of saying to our kids, 'Get a grateful attitude,' we ask them to give one compliment to every member of the family each day.  As this becomes a habit in their lives, the attitude of gratitude follows."

I found this refreshing to read as I am finding it is more and more true in my own life.  Granted there may be an initial moment of motivation, but it is the discipline that sustains and then leads to greater motivation.  I am finding this in my waking up schedule, Bible reading, YMCA (though slacking a bit as of late), etc. 

I think there is part of me that wants to rail against discipline at times because it can seem so formulaic or legalistic, but I am finding that is really not the case.  I feel the best when I am most disciplined.  I actually feel more free and in tune with how God wants me to orient my life.  Obviously disciple can become legalistic, but that seems more of an abuse of discipline.  It's a tricky balance, one that I am learning.