A Tale of Three Idolatries

As a pastor in 21st century USA I am constantly bombarded with cultural standards that distort the calling of God. For instance, our culture celebrates impetuousness of youth; the scripture celebrates wisdom from the aged. Our society elevates power and control as the measures of success; the scripture servanthood and generosity.

But recently I have been praying and seeking God about the vision of the church. I have been trying to wrap my head around our strategy for getting to where he wants us to be. The fact is that the local church is the hope of the world, and our vision should reflect the hope that we're bringing it.

And here is where the conflict emerges with our culture. Because in the society I pastor there is a major problem with idolatry. These are the major idols that I believe we face:

• Business/Finance is the hope of the world.
• Education is the hope of the world.
• Medicine is the hope of the world.
  

I would argue those are listed in order of respect in our culture from least to greatest. The gospel of Jesus Christ lived out through the work of the Church has been replaced by these institutions. Further, I believe that government was at one time on this list, but is diminishing in our society's view. It had its chance, but proved that it could not be the hope of the world. Ultimately each will fail, but we must be vigilant in esteeming the Church as the hope of the world.

I think many have viewed the problems of idolatry in our country as hedonistic practices like sexual promiscuity, pornography, and the indulgence of intoxication. But I believe these practices are just the coping mechanism for a world ever separated from the true Hope that can only be found in Christ. That's why if there is any hope for the world it will come through the local church.

--Ben

Waken Your Consciousness

The Time Change occurs this weekend. Get ready to Fall back.

--Ben

Cohort

The last two days I spent with about 65 pastors from the Potomac District in a cohort; the first of 5 throughout the next year. It is led by Drs. Wayne and Sherri Lee. This is the second year that it has been offered, and though I wanted to get in it last year, I decided to wait. I'm sorry that I did.

If they do one thing they assess. They work to constantly quantify what you are doing and where you are as a church. I know one pastor that has assessed his church thrice in a year.

The first meeting, this week, was pretty much just learning a common language so that when they refer to things we understand what they're talking about. Dr. Lee has pastored four churches two under a hundred, one that grew into a mega-church, and another mega-church. He pastored in Urban, Suburban, and rural settings. He has spent his life of ministry as a research field to train other pastors, and for the last ten years has served as a professor in Bible colleges. He is a good teacher.

His cohort is not a seminar or conference. He doesn't tell us what to do, or suggest that our church look a particular way. Instead he offers the essential functions of the church, no matter what it's vision looks like. This is different from most conferences where churches say, "This is what we do, if you do it like us, you'll succeed." Dr. Lee approaches things very differently. Start with prayer, determine God's vision with the church people, work on ministry holistically, and become the church God intends for your setting, in your community, with your people.

It's going to be a worthwhile investment of time, though before I start implementing anything they've recommended that we take our time. Some guys have been in the track a year, and are just starting to implement things they're learning. Others are working on a five year plan of implementation. So I'll take my time too, and learn as much as I can.

--Ben

Clydesdale

This week I ran into a friend, Alan, who is a runner (i.e. two marathons in 2009, Yikes!). I told him about my aspirations and training and he really got excited. He recommended the best running store in Maryland, knows the owners by name, and had a bunch of questions about things that I did not understand. But I learned somethings just from the conversation.

His biggest question?

"What kind of shoes do you wear?"

He referred to me as a Clydesdale. I found that funny, but he shared that it is a common name in the running world for heavier runners.

I've been called a lot of things, but that was the first time for this. I appreciate the term, and the care with which it's used.

--Ben

How I Spent The Day

Today I spent most of my time at a meeting in Lutherville. The Potomac District has offered Cohorts to Pastors as a means of consulting on their church's health and growth. I have been scholarshipped, and got to attend the first meeting today.

It was great to hear that most of what they were teaching is what God has been speaking to me about. Primarily about the vision of the church being birthed among the church people in relation to us praying to hear from God.

It is going to be a great help to us at SRC.

--Ben

New Friends

Yesterday we celebrated the end of the soccer season with a picnic lunch with the families at Lake Waterford Park. The kids had a ball. I had a great time too, talking with the parents (mostly the fathers). It is quite a group. I talked with the coach, Randy, and I'll be working with him next season. Should be fun.

They were, or at least acted, very interested in what I do. We spent more time talking about the church than I would have thought. Of course that's my favorite topic...

--Ben

On The Front End

I know it sounds strange, but since I reorganized my office I have such a vigor to work. I can't wait to get to my table and tackle the next task.

This morning I was up at 6:00 and on my way. I have a meeting that will take up most of the day, so I wanted to get a jump on what I could. On the front end of the week, things are looking good.

--Ben

Last Game

Sydney's last game was today. She has thoroughly enjoyed soccer. Coach Randy and Steve did a great job. Unfortunately our last game was a no show by the other team. Hard to believe considering it was the last game, and the league gave out trophies today. Our kids had a ball though. We ran a little scrimmage and they seemed to not even notice that we didn't actually play a real game.

There's been a lot of talk on the team about next season, and it is looking like I'm going to pick up the whistle next year. Looking forward to that...

--Ben

Message for Sunday

Well, my message is ready for refining. I'm more excited than usual to preach this weekend. The message is No Financial Crisis Too Difficult. I think it's really timely considering all that's going on around us. If you've been worried about the state of the economy, I invite you to come hear the teaching on Sunday morning. I can't wait.

I'll see you there.

--Ben

Cold

I wish we'd snap past these cold days. It is unseasonably cool. I'm not liking it. We're missing the best weather of the year. It stinks. When I run I have to wear layers on layers to stay warm, and it's only October.

Bring the warmth back, please.

--Ben

Projects

I've got so many projects that at times I have a hard time keeping up. But yesterday I got some relief. On Sunday I asked for help in several areas, and one of them was for administrative tasks. Two people from the church volunteered, and yesterday as I was making my task list for the day, and was seeing there was no way to accomplish it all even by the end of the week, I started a list of stuff to give away. It was so nice to hand Alma (one of my volunteers) a stack of stuff last night that she is taking care of. Easily freeing up a couple hours for me.

While we're on the subject, Tina also volunteered, and will be working with me on Communications with the church. She is entrusted with the task of asking, "What do SRCers need to know?" and will be coordinating regular correspondence to the church. I am so excited about that.

We still need a volunteer for two months of food services, and are holding open auditions for the band (vocal, instrumental, sound). If you're interested let me know. ben(at)severnriverchurch.com


--Ben

Reading Out Of The Rut

Recently I heard a mentor say that he has read his way out of every rut in ministry. For close to thirty years he has depended on reading as a discipline for growth. In fact when he started his church, he told the budget committee that he didn't care what they paid him, but he needed an unlimited book budget. That has remained constant for thirty years. (Nice!)

I enjoy reading, but I've recently decided to take stronger stands in my disciplines. A friend of mine was recently lamenting to his board that he wished he could take two days a week just to study and pray. The board responded, "Who told you you couldn't?"

As a pastor I don't have people standing over me checking time sheets (which I keep) or giving performance reviews. I'm left on my own to discipline my work-life. I have a very public role on Sundays, but that is all a product of how I've managed the rest of my time during the week. I set my own start and finish lines. I'm responsible for that. So I'm working in time at my desk for just reading.

What do I read? Well I just got a box of goodies...

1. Building Leaders by Aubrey Malphurs
2. The Complete Book of Discipleship by Bill Hull
3. Good To Great by Jim Collins
4. Who Stole My Church by Gordon MacDonald
5. Christian Theology by Millard Erickson
6. God Is The Issue by Brad Bright

In addition to books I read a number of periodicals including...

1. Leadership Journal
2. Enrichment Journal
3. Fortune Magazine
4. This Old House
5. Fine Homebuilding

--Ben

What do you think?

Yesterday I attended the Chamber of Commerce's slots discussion. Delegate James King addressed the chamber representing both sides of the issue. I was impressed with his presentation. He did, I feel, represent each side, and was honest enough to say where he stands on the issue. He was also gracious in answering questions that I'm sure he hears over and over again.

After the meeting people were leaving, and I was one of the last three out. I shared with the Executive Director, Linda Zahn, that we had done some work to their logo, if they were interested in using it just as a gift. Then she asked, "What do you think?"

It opened up the door for me to speak about Christ. To share His perspectives on life and teachings of morality and care for the poor. I was blessed to go public with my faith to Linda and Rick.

I think that it's important that we put ourselves in places where through servanthood and the character we display that people ask "What do you think?"

Where are places that you specifically go with a focus of how you can represent Christ?

--Ben

I thought I'd missed it

Today I'm going to a prayer meeting in Sykesville. I'm really excited to see the Lifehouse in Sykesville. I had it on my calendar for last week, and thought I had missed it, but it is actually today. Yay!!!

I meet monthly with pastors from around the Baltimore area to pray.

Before I get to Sykesville though, my day starts right here in Severna Park. The county is sending a representative to give information about the Slots referendum that is coming up. He is supposed to offer both sides so we can make an informed decision. We'll see...

--Ben

Yesterday

Yesterday was an imbalanced day. I did everything I usually do, but it was all in different order. For instance, I ran at 10:30. It definately felt weird and the rest of the day kinda went the same way.

When I got off at 4:00 I headed over and played with my daughters outside at my in-laws' house. That was a lot of fun. Ellie is getting to the age that when she sees me she starts trying to run to me. Of course, she falls multiple times before she actually gets to me, and I love the look on her face when I throw her up in the air.

Then last night I attended a small group for pastors that meets once a quarter. It was in Arnold, and I always enjoy getting this group of pastors together. Each of us are different, and each church is different as well. It is fascinating to listen to the different points of view.

--Ben

Radio Silence

Sorry to be silent, I feel like it has been a while since I posted. I am here and working. I look forward to posting more later, just a bit busy right now. Hopefully before I log off today, I'll post something worth reading.

-ben

Celebrating Friday

This morning our family celebrated Friday. All four of us headed out for a trip to Bob Evans. It is so much fun to watch my girls eat.

Day Off Day

Fridays are my day off, mostly. Today I have a couple loose ends I have to tie up for CONTACT tonight (about an hour's worth). And I have a wedding I'm performing in Havre de Grace. I'm doing that for a friend who originally was the minister involved. Unfortunately he wasn't able to make it to the wedding because of a work schedule conflict, so he asked me to help. I found out last night that the family was very worried, losing their minister at the last moment (four weeks out), but were relieved that I was available.

So most of my day off will be a day on with them. I'll make up the time off throughout the weekend.

Glad that sabbath is for man, and not man for sabbath.

--Ben

On The Road Again

This morning I was on the road before the sun came up to get out to my coaching meeting in Hagerstown. Then jet back, touch down at home for a while and head to Havre de Grace for a wedding rehearsal this evening. Looong Day!

But I'm thankful for what God has been speaking to me today. He really shaped my heart reated to the next steps of the church. I'm really looking forward to the upcoming members meeting. Because when we unite, we're going to move to a higher level. It is so exciting.

--Ben

Prayer

We are hosting Prayer group tonight at my house. It is from 7:30-8:30. It is very experimental, we are not really sure of what it will fully be. We are just aware that we need to pray together as a church. I look forward to it.

--Ben

Transitioning

At Severn River Church we recently passed the two year mark. Last night I sat with a friend and we discussed several things that need improvement at SRC. One of the realizations that we came to was that while in the start-up phase decisions were made quickly and changed quickly; largely made by me. Now we have brought more than half of our congregation in, and have introduced them to an existing church. Two things then confront us:

1. Increase information and discussion. Changes in the church are carrying higher gravity among the congregation. This really follows the moves of maturity that we are pursuing in our third year. Setting up a fully functioning elder and leadership board, quarterly meetings of the membership, and training our leaders. By nature I am an activator. I see something that needs to be done and I do it. We will be working on sharing more responsibilities and leadership in the church.
2. Guard against the inertia of becoming "established". We are far too young to become established. We need to be vigilant to be open to experimental forms of ministry, organic in our means of growing disciples, and we need to stay young in our approach to change.

--Ben

CONTACT delayed

This week was supposed to be a week of CONTACT at AACC. However, the gift cards are on order, and haven't arrived. It will have to be re-scheduled to a week upcoming.

--Ben

On The Trail Again

Well, over the last two weeks I've had a lot of travel days, unfortunately that translates into no running as I have not yet figured out how to partner the two. But travel is over. So I was back out on the trail this morning running, sweating, breathing, trying to breathe.

I have struggled even since returning home getting back out there, but I came across this quote and used it to push myself...

When The Sun Comes Up!

In Africa Every Morning A Gazelle Awakens
Knowing That It Must Outrun
The Fastest Lion If It Wants To Stay Alive.

Every Morning A Lion Wakes Up Knowing
That It Must Run Faster Than The
Slowest Gazelle Or It Will Starve To Death.

It Makes No Difference Whether You Are A Lion Or A Gazelle:

When The Sun Comes Up You Had Better Be Running.

--Ben

I'm On Fire

I feel like I'm on fire this morning with a burning passion to pastor. That's a great feeling, I hope you have days like this with the work you do. The really great part is that usually Mondays are the worst day of a Pastor's week. Typically the problems from Sunday weigh on a pastors heart. But last night I got to sit with the oversight board and share the things that God has been doing.

• Two people raised their hands to reconcile with God yesterday morning.
• Four people were certified as trained children's workers.
• I served communion to someone yesterday that hadn't received it before with us.
• I heard a 2 minute summation of Brother Myer's life that seems like one of the most exciting lives ever. (He's vacationed all over the world except the middle east. That's a lot of places.)
• I learned that Smith Wigglesworth is the only person I've ever heard of that grew a third set of teeth.
• We had a first time guest yesterday, I'm looking forward to following up with him. I didn't get a chance to meet him before he headed out.
  
• So thankful for the Pastor's Appreciation recognition. Corie and I have some dates paid for because of your generosity. Gift cards to Outback, Starbucks and Panera Bread. (I love those places.)
• A personal note to thank me for the message. God knows!!! He knows what His plans are even when we don't know fully. When people come into the weekend service they are longing to hear from God. As a Pastor I prepare and deliver the message that I believe God wants. I plan a calendar to make sure that our annual diet of God's word is balanced. Then on certain weeks messages hit a nerve exactly where people are, and that is a beautiful thing when preaching.

Ok, SO, now you know why I'm fired up?

--Ben

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A day off

Fridays are my day off each week. However, Corie has been working on Fridays more and more, so my day is usually tied up in activities around them. This week Corie said that she arranged my mother to care for the girls so I get the day off by myself. Finally a chance to catch up on some things I just can't get done while watching them. Emissions tests, mowing the jungle that is my lawn.

--Ben

Dreams

I'm a pretty big dreamer in the vision sense, but most nights I don't remember any dreams from my sleep. Last night someone shared a dream they had of a spiritual nature. I shared a dream I had the night before of a spiritual nature as well. I have often felt like people who hear from God in dreams come across as weird. That may or may not be an accurate feeling. Especially in light of scripture that tells us that in the days since Christ left, and the days still to come God would speak to man many ways, but one of those is through dreams and visions. So was God speaking to my friend and I? That remains to be seen because his dream revolved around a question that only God can answer, and mine is a action that I would take. So if he gets the answer and/or I take the action we'll know.

But even from a psychological approach, I think spiritual dreams are pretty cool, because dreams show us what our minds are thinking about. My dream was about sharing my faith with someone. I see it as a measure of the spiritual hunger I have to share my faith. My spirit and mind are becoming unified on that pursuit.

What do you dream about?

--Ben

Prayer

Last night was the change over from Operations Team meeting to Prayer Group. We spent the majority of our time discussing what a Prayer Group should be like, what we want to see it be like. Then we prayed. It was a terrific time, and I'm excited about the future of it.

Everyone is welcome to my house next Wednesday night for Prayer.

--Ben

And We're Back

Just got home from the Potomac District Minister's Retreat. It is a Mon - Wed. event each fall where we gather for encouragement and refreshment. This year was in Williamsburg, Va. It rotates there every three years. The Marriott Hotel, which hosted the event, was very nice, but of the three locations Williamsburg is my least favorite.

The main speakers were David and Beth Grant, a dynamic couple who have ministered for 30 years. They did a great job with last nights session on ministry together.

--Ben

Praying for me

I don't know how many of you have stepped up your prayers for me, but I feel like some of you must have, because I can almost feel it. So thankful, I need it.

--Ben

Finishing Each Other's Sentences

Today I had a neat experience. I met up with a guy who planted a church in Va at the same time we planted in Arnold. We had not seen each other since, so we spent a little while catching up, and then spent about two hours finishing each other's sentences. We share so many common experiences. It's nice to know that we're not behind the curve, that in fact we're right where everyone else is at this point. (And in some ways a little ahead.)

This retreat has been very helpful in refreshing me spiritually.

--Ben

Low Dollar Resort Travel

Last week we were in Ocean City, MD with my family. It was a lot of fun squeezing ten people into a two bedroom condo. I also love that the girls are at an age where we spend the days on the beach, and finding local playgrounds.

This week we're at the Potomac District's Minister's Retreat. A gathering of pastors from all over Md, DC, Va, and W. Va. It is in Williamsburg, Va this year. We are driving around and seeing so many signs to Big Dollar attractions, but we enjoy just finding a local park and spending time together.

Now it is nap time, so I'm gonna snuggle with Sydney.

--Ben

Good Soccer Game

Sydney had another good soccer game today. Her team is really good, and it is exciting to watch them improve each game. There coaches are very nice, and the team's families seem to get along well too. The three-year-old league is the beginners, and sometimes you even wonder what three- year-olds can really do, but they really are capable of learning a lot. There are three scorers on the team. Sydney, Amber and Tyler. The others are not quite as capable, but there are tiers to their skills as well. Sydney and Amber are making the turn to passing; a skill no one has yet. It is very frustrating though for Sydney and the others to see a wide open net, and not shoot the ball. But they're learning and it is a fun time for them.

The team we played today however had poor coaching, and poorly trained kids resulting in a horrible outing for them where they barely touched the ball and scored maybe three times (not counting the scores that we put in for them). A great leadership lesson came out of it though. Those that lead must be confident. The other coach exclaimed in the middle of the field during the fourth quarter, "This is supposed to be fun, but it just isn't." Who wants to play if your coach has thrown it in too?

--Ben

Time Warp

This week is crazy. Gone for four days, back for two, then leave Sunday for three more. It is October already, time is flying. Gotta update my PDA just to stay on top of things.

--Ben

Headed Home

Today we'll be ending our trip to Ocean City. Rob and Alma were kind enough to excuse me from our meeting last night so we could extend our trip one more day. But we'll be back this afternoon.

I feel like my batteries are back up to about 70%, but next week is Minister's Retreat and I should tick back up to full. Looking forward to sharing some thoughts with you that have been rolling around my head.

Here's a teaser: The myth that moral maturity is the same as spiritual maturity...

Blog at you later...

--Ben