Finished & Ready to Start Again

For whatever reason, doing the read through the Bible in a year has worked for me the past 3 years.  Just finished today and looking forward to starting it all over again tomorrow.  And yes, I definitely get behind and find myself catching up at times.  And yes, some parts are easier to read than others.  The biggest thing is to just get time in God's Word and as we do our desire for it seems to grow...at least that's been my experience.  So if you're interested and looking for a reading plan, check out the link below.  You'll find several different read through plans.  They've got RSS feeds.  Email reminders.  All sorts of helpful tools.  Let me know if you're embarking on one of these journeys.  Peace and Happy New Year!

Devotions (ESV Bible Online).

Fascinating Article

As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God | Matthew Parris - Times Online .

found this over at goingtoseminary.com

Merry Christmas

Hope you had an enjoyable day.  Peace.

Keller on Humility

In light of the reality of the Incarnation and Jesus' humility, enjoy this article.  Hope you have a Merry Christmas as you reflect on the birth of the one who though he was rich, yet for our sake became poor.  

The Advent of Humility | Christianity Today | A Magazine of Evangelical Conviction.

Thursday is for Teaching prep

Had to get out of the home office. Change of scenery is doing me well as I try and prepare for my first Christmas message. If you're looking for a Christmas service love to have you come check out CrossPointe this Sunday at 6:00 pm. Well, back to work. Peace.

Andrew Peterson concert

Concert did not disappoint. Had a great time with Heather. I should hear live music more often.

Church Planters Retreat

I am at a 24 hour church planters retreat with the guys from Vision360.  We are staying at the Canterbury Retreat Center, right near UCF.  It's been a good time of reflection, particularly on our own idols.  It's been good to have some "forced" time of introspection, as the busyness of life often leaves little room for that type of thinking.  The following articles have been helpful and the focus of much of our discussion.

Download Idolatry in a postmodern age (Tim Keller)

Download Idols of the Heart (Powlison) (David Powlison)

Jonah, Dwell & Launch Team

This past Sunday, we wrapped up our series on the book of Jonah...but I now realize it was incomplete.  How could I have taught on this book without the Jonah and the Whale action figure set?  I feel I did a great disservice to the people of CrossPointe Winter Park.  But it's not too late...you can pick one up at your local Christian bookstore.  Great stocking stuffer. If you're interested in any of the teachings, you can listen in by visiting here.

Now that we are finished with Jonah, we are beginning our next series 
entitled DWELL.  This will be the first Christmas series, not only in the life of CrossPointe Winter Park, but also in my short teaching history.  Looking forward to it and invite you to come check it out this Sunday.  

Lastly, this Sunday marks the forming of our Launch Team.  You can read more about it here.  I am really excited about the people God has brought to partner with this new church.  Can't wait for the next phase of the church to be rolled out in January.  Stay tuned.

Still speaking

Dad date

3 ways to live

One of the more helpful insights into the Christian life is realizing that there is not just two ways to live, but three.  Most people (myself included) want to break reality down into religious and irreligious.  However, as the following quote illustrates, from a book that does an amazing job of conveying this truth, both the religious and irreligious are lost.  What is needed is the third way...the way of the Gospel.  You should really buy this book.  It is quite helpful.

Jesus does not divide the world into the moral “good guys” and immoral “bad guys.” He shows us that everyone is dedicated to a project of self-salvation, to using God and others in order to get power and control for themselves. We are just going about it in different ways. 

This means that Jesus’ message, which is “the gospel,” is a completely different spirituality. The gospel of Jesus is not religion or irreligion, morality or immorality, moralism or relativism, conservatism or liberalism. Nor is it something halfway along a spectrum between two poles--it is something else altogether.

The gospel...in its view, everyone is wrong, everyone is loved, and everyone is called to recognize this and change.

--Tim Keller, The Prodigal God

Date night

Good to go out with my bride tonight. Was a beautiful night to be out.

Something to think about on election day...

Heather and I had a cool discussion this morning on a passage she ran across in her Bible study...

Acts 1:6-8

6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Interesting to note, particularly on an election day, that the disciples question centers on whether or not Jesus was going to be the political hero they hoped for.  Would he restore the kingdom to Israel? They still think the answer is found in politics and some sort of governmental change.  Look what Jesus does...he basically ignores their question and then commissions them to be sent out on his redemptive mission.  They are to bring the healing and hope to the nations, through the power of the Gospel.  They are to be part of the solution.  They are to be the answer.  They are to turn the world upside-down through the gift of the Holy Spirit and Jesus' counter-cultural kingdom.  

So in an election that certainly has our country divided, and where Christians on both sides desperately think their guy has to win, let's remember that Jesus wants His Church to bring the only Kingdom that ultimately matters.  His is the only kingdom that will last.  This does not mean we overly spiritualize everything and ignore our opportunity and responsibility to vote.  Pray for our leaders.  Vote your convictions.  Ask God to use even flawed government leaders to bring about His redemptive purposes.  Be thankful that we have freedoms and the privilege to vote and speak our mind.  But know that Jesus is still on the throne, regardless of who is in the White House. 

So perhaps Jesus would commission all of His followers, in the days ahead, to be mavericks for Him to bring the change we need.  Sorry, couldn't help it.   Cheesy political humor is so much fun.  

Bigger playground = less yard to mow

I'm very happy

Hot off the presses. You should get a copy.

Long overdue North Carolina Pics

click here to see pics form our trip to Boone, NC earlier this month.

New bike day

This thing is great | ESV Study Bible

If you haven't heard, the new ESV Study Bible was recently released.  I just got a hold of my copy a couple days ago.  Crazy good resource.  I highly recommend it.  You can read more at http://esvstudybible.org or check out the video below for a brief explanation of all that's inside.  

The End of an Era

Someone used to own it in Wheaton, IL and sold it at a garage sale to a  friend and fellow Wheaton College student.  This friend subsequently gave it to us when she graduated and it became our "first" couch in our "first" post-graduation apartment.  That was just over 10 years ago.  It traveled from Chicago to our first rental home in Winter Park.  It moved into our current home about 8 years ago.  It got put out to the curb today...and two college girls just picked it up and loaded it on top of their little car.  Good bye love seat.  We will miss your incredible sinking-in-ness.  

Pre-K Chapel

Got Questions?

click image

Reflections from a 6 week old church

Here’s some thoughts, in no particular order, regarding the launching of CrossPointe Winter Park...

To be perfectly honest, I’m not sure where I expected to be at this point.  I think the biggest thing I feel right now is gratitude. Gratitude to God who is clearly at work building His church.  Gratitude to the people who have partnered alongside of us to make CrossPointe Winter Park a reality.  People have already embraced a total stewardship of time, talent and treasure.  Gratitude to those who took the risk of showing up to a new church without knowing anybody.  They simple found us online and decided to come check it out.  That has blown my mind.  I really figured at this point the church would be comprised of people I had some degree of relational connectedness to prior to our launch. Clear evidence that Jesus is senior pastor and He is doing the work.  

I am also keenly aware of my need for the Gospel and finding my identity in Christ...which is not to say that I always do.  Of the 6 worship gatherings, there have been two that have been smaller in number, with a few more logistical glitches.  It is in these moments that I see my own insecurities.  I can sense my own heart spiraling to some places that are not the healthiest.  Wondering why some people aren’t there?  Wondering if some people will come back?  I am realizing my own tendency to judge success on superficial criteria.  It’s amazing the emotional pendulum that occurs from week to week.  I am thankful for the years of vocational ministry that are serving as good preparation for this new work.  I am thankful for many seasoned planters who have spoken into this process and told me to expect these kind of highs and lows.  

Though the process is anything but easy, and I at times have no idea what I should be focusing on, I sense that God is at work.  I love seeing people connecting relationally before and after the service.  I love seeing the group that is coming out every Monday night to be trained as community group leaders.  I love that people are wanting to meet and talk about the church, their questions, and things God is doing in their life.  I love that people are inviting their friends to come check out the church.  I love that people are just jumping in and serving, even if it’s not in an area that they are passionate about.  

Though I have not settled into a rhythm yet, I love the weekly preparation for teaching.  I know I have a long way to go, but I am thankful that I get to teach God’s Word.  It’s been fun getting to focus in on our core values through the series re:Discover CHURCH.  Hard to believe there are only two more weeks left in that series.  I am looking forward to our next series, as we get to journey through a book of the Bible together.  Let’s just say it involves a man running from God and getting swallowed by a large fish.  Should be fun.  

Well I could go on, but for now this should suffice.  If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading.  Please continue to pray for this new church.

Peace.

Keller interviewed on WashingtonPost.com

Our favorite mocha

Heather and I got to steal away for a bit this afternoon without the kids. Good time enjoying our favorite mocha of all time...it's art I tell you...and a little browsing at the Mast General Store.

Contextualizing the Gospel in Urban, hip-hop culture

Great interview over at The Resurgence with Lecrae, which you can read/see by clicking here.  Even if this isn't your style of music, it's a great example of contextualizing the Gospel in a particular culture.  I can learn a lot from this music.  You can also have a listen to one of the latest songs below.  

We have arrived

Well we are here enjoying the beauty of God's creation in Boone, NC. Long road trip but we survived. Weather is beautiful. Peace.

Peace

A Friday photo

You know the temperature has dropped a couple degrees in Florida when...

Dad day at school

Had a great time joining Sydnie for lunch at her school. Also great to see the board that read "my dad is special because..." and her response was "he wears special clothes." hmmm.

New Podcast

 We are now podcasting the weekly teachings from CrossPointe Winter Park.  Click here to be redirected to iTunes.  

You can also visit http://crosspointewinterpark.com/resources

Finding a new equilibrium

One of the phrases that has been uttered around our house as of late has been "finding a new equilibrium." What I mean is that we are adjusting to new schedules, new responsibilities, new rhythms throughout the week.  I imagine this will take some time.  I also believe the words of a favorite seminary professor who said, "Because the deck of life is always shifting, balance will never be more than momentary synchronicity."  One of the rhythms that I don't want to lose is my time with Heather and the girls.  If I start a church but neglect them in the whole process then I have really failed.  I am trying to keep this before me, which has been harder the past two weeks.  That's why yesterday was so good.  My sister was in town for work, staying at Disney, and so I took the afternoon off and spent it with the family.  We drove to the Disney hotel (which interestingly enough was the first time either of our kids had ever been on Disney property), hung out with my sister and the girls got to swim and play all afternoon.  Sure the two year old was melting down on the drive home, but it was still good to be together.  Yesterday was a good to day to reclaim some of the neglected sabbath time over the past couple of weeks.  I'll leave you with a couple pics.  Peace.

 

A Great Night | CrossPointe Winter Park Kicks Off

Wow.  Sunday night was the first worship gathering of CrossPointe Winter Park and it was clear that God is building HIS church.  So encouraged on so many levels.  People were serving.  People were connecting.  People were showing up that I had never met (thank you internet).  People were worshipping.  People heard the Gospel.  People took communion.  People even stayed to help tear down. It felt so much bigger than me and my plans...which is a good place to be.  There were so many things that logistically could have gone wrong, and yet by God's goodness things went off without a hitch.  Now the hard work begins...knowing that this endeavor has never been about pulling off a church service, but rather building a community of missionaries who are sent out to help bring the beauty, harmony and wholeness of God's Kingdom to our city.  I could write more, but it's enough to say that God was very good to us and He gave us great joy that night!  

If you'd like to hear the teaching, the podcast is now up at http://crosspointewinterpark.com/resources

Thanks to all who have partnered in this new church and to those who came to check it out!  

Final Vision Night Video

The Sunday night launch of CrossPointe Winter Park is only a few days away...Sunday, September 7! Can't wait. You can check out a new and improved website at http://crosspointewinterpark.com for all the details.  Below is video footage from our final vision night...check it out!  Peace.

CrossPointe Winter Park | Final Vision Night | August 24, 2008 from Jamie Hart on Vimeo.

For Ethan

Dad date resumes

Final Vision Night | August 24 (this Sunday)

Really excited about this meeting, as it will be our last time in this setting before we launch Sunday night worship gatherings on September 7.  If you've not been to a vision night, and are interested in this new church, definitely check it out.  Click the image below to be re-directed to the website with all the details. Hope to see you there!  Peace.

In honor of Fay

Went back into the video vault and pulled out some "live footage" from Hurricane Frances a few years back.  This is the news at its very best.  Check it out.

Hurricane Frances from Jamie Hart on Vimeo.

Off to School...hard to believe

Hard to believe, but our 4 year old heads off to her first day of school tomorrow (pre-K).  She is unbelievably excited.  This picture could be her tomorrow running out the door.  She's been counting down the days.  It'll be weird, as she's never been in school and is now going 5 days a week.  Probably not weird for her...more for her parents.  The next stage of life with kids is about to begin.  Fun times.  

Recovering

Well I survived the surgery and I'm off some of the drugs, so I figure it's safe to actually blog now.  First 24 hours were pretty painful.  Each day is getting better.  Turns out that not only did I tear my ACL but I messed up my Meniscus as well.  They took care of both while they were in there.  Heather has been absolutely amazing in all of this...she could definitely use some rest.  It's like she's got 3 little kids.  I've posted some "glamour shots" for those who are interested.  Also, if you think of it, pray for tomorrow morning.  I'm supposed to be sharing at CrossPointe tomorrow morning about our plans for CrossPointe | Winter Park.  Hopefully I won't be in a drug induced stupor at that point.  Peace.

 

Find a Bible

Ever wonder why there are so many translations of the Bible? Where did they all come from and which one should you read?

If you answered "yes" to either of those questions then you ought to do yourself a favor and check out this resource developed by a friend of mine.  It's called BEST BIBLE.  Check it out.  

Soul Spa, Slabs & Surgery

Haven't blogged in awhile, so here's some highlights of the past few days...

Soul Spa :: the annual CrossPointe retreat was August 7-9 out at Daytona Beach.  All of the teaching were out of the Sermon on the Mount.  I got the privilege of teaching the opening night session on the "wise and foolish builders" in Matthew 7.  I'll let you know when audio is available.  I also got to teach a breakout session on Matthew 5:38-42.  God was very gracious as I didn't feel as settled as I normally do before a teaching.  

More than anything, the time away was a good time of reflection for Heather and I as we thought of where we were this time last year.  Soul Spa 2007 was our first connection with CrossPointe as we attended the first week I was on the new job.  God has been so good to us!  We are incredibly thankful for all the people from CrossPointe that we now count as friends.  Excited that some of them will be coming with the church plant!  Very cool to see how God is building His church.  

Friday night was an extended time of worship and a foot washing service.  It was a joy to be able to serve in this way and to pray for folks...it was a very powerful night.  

Slabs :: all I have to say is that about half my backyard is going away!  That's right, concrete is being poured tomorrow.  Half-court basketball.  Place for kids to ride their bikes.  Less stupid Florida grass to cut.  

Surgery :: Bit ironic that Tuesday the basketball court gets poured and Wednesday morning I will go under the knife to have my ACL reconstructive surgery...injury that occurred whilst playing basketball.  I'll keep you posted on the surgery...maybe I should try blogging while under the influence of pain killers.  That would make for some interesting posts.  

Well there's what's going on.  Going to try and recover from surgery and then get a church launched.  Last Vision Night is August 24.  You should come (assuming you're in the area).  Sunday night weekly meetings begin on September 7.  Whoa.  Coming quick.  Exciting.  Peace. 

Anniversary night out

Great to be out with my bride of 11 years! Officially tomorrow, but since Mackinley decided to be born on our anniversary, we went out tonight. Seasons 52 for dinner and then "The Dark Knight"--can't remember the last time we went to a movie together.

Heather and I had a great time reflecting on this past year, which has brought much change to our lives. I am extremely grateful to have her by my side on this crazy journey! So thankful that God brought us together...at the ripe old age of 21! Heather is an amazing blessing...a great wife and a great mom, who sacrifices much.  Hard to believe it's been 11 years. Very cool.

Discouragement or Opportunity?

I encourage you to check out the following article, which prompted the following thoughts...

Orlando in the Pits of Volunteer Survey

Looks like our state of Florida ranks 49th in volunteerism, and hitting closer to home, Orlando ranks 46th out of 50 major cities.  Part of me can get discouraged knowing that this may have some effect on church planting, which is heavily dependent upon a strong volunteer base.  However, I am more gripped by the opportunity that lies ahead of us.  What these stats show me is that for us to mobilize a group of people as the church, on mission, is truly counter-cultural.  People don't just give of themselves.  People don't naturally seek the welfare of their city and their neighbors.  What great opportunity we have to love our area well.  How cool would it be if the statistics 10 years from now were radically different because of a church planting movement throughout our area?  I am reminded that this is only possible through the Gospel.  Sure an Orlando Sentinel article may highlight the need, but the message of the Cross is the only thing that can change the very fabric and contours of our city.  

Mackinley Goes Swimming

Saturday Shot

Latest Vision Night Recap & Video

Can't believe it's Thursday evening already.  Been meaning to post some reflections on our 2nd Vision Meeting for CrossPointe Winter Park...just been busy.  Anyway, it was another great night, not because of any great word or preparation on my part, but because Jesus was serious when he said I will build my church.  God brought people.  He has generated interest.  He is doing this for His glory.  We just get to be along for the ride.  We are extremely grateful to all who have participated in the past 2 vision meetings, and we look forward with great anticipation to the 3rd installment on August 24!  Mark your calendars.  This will be the best one yet.  

Below is video footage from the meeting, with the emphasis being on COMMUNITY.  The video should serve to give you a good idea of our approach to cultivating community and how we can live it out.  How do we work towards community when so much of the world we inhabit encourages individualism, isolation and consumerism?  What would it be like to be the church and not just go to church.  How do groups stay missional and not turn in on themselves?  How is the GOSPEL the only means by which true community can be fostered?  These were some of the topics we discussed and addressed, knowing full well that it's one thing to talk about it and another thing to live it out.  Through the gospel, we are a people trying to live this out.  Peace.

CrossPointe Winter Park | Vision Night II | July 20, 2008 from Jamie Hart on Vimeo.

Church Plant Vision Meeting | Sunday night

Excited about our next church plant vision night.  If you are in the Orlando area, come join us tomorrow from 6-8 pm.  Get all the details by clicking here.  Hope to see you there!