Steve Conley

Try Again

2011-03-01T05:57:00.001-08:00

Woke up, mixed up, what’s that sound
Feet to the floor and I’m morning bound
Restless and hungry for this day to end
So I can wake up, be mixed up and try again

Left hand or right hand I’m so confused
Which way to turn so I can dodge the blues
Good Lord have mercy on this troubled man
So I can wake up, be mixed up and try again

Promises, promises I try to make
Can’t keep the promises I give away
Truth that I’m speaking is the truth I bend
Lord help me wake up, be mixed up and try again

Look out my window and I try to see
Sorrow and sadness looking back at me
Restless and hungry for this day to end
So I can wake up, be mixed up and try again

It's Cold Out

2010-02-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

It’s cold out.
Layers upon layers, upon layers,
To keep what’s warm from getting out.
To hide what feels good from the knocking of the cold.
Holding back the frigidness of all that beckons to get in.
It’s cold out.

It’s cold out.
Flakes of snow begin to fall,
Flakes upon flakes, upon flakes.
Falling down, trapping every inch of what’s left of life.
Burying all the dirty green and brown to white.
It’s cold out.

It’s cold out.
The sun becomes a checkered friend.
The ones you wonder if you will see again.
Doing the job of the makers hand.
I complain and scream and shout.
That it’s cold out.

It’s cold out.
It might be cold within.
Layers upon layers, upon layers.
To keep what’s warm from getting in.
To hide trapped feelings from the caring of a friend.
Holding back the love that beckons to get in.
It’s cold out... or cold within.

If I Speak

2009-09-08T03:53:00.000-07:00

If I speak before I know what I speak
Where does that take me when done?
Where does that lead me in the end
and what does it make me look like to others?

Do I know what I mean without meaning?
Who really listens to such things?
Does it make me feel better or worse?
Will I be respected or disrespected?

If I put the cart before the horse
What direction does that take me?
How will I explain myself
and tip toe around my arrogance?

If I ask you a question do I know the answer?
Do I need to ask with presumptions?
Standing on soapboxes can be slippery
Especially when I have no idea

If I leap I look down
If I drink I make sure it’s pleasant to my tongue
Ignorance is bliss, or is it?
Not if my true intentions are hurtful.

And I...

2009-09-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

A chill was there the breeze crept in
The open door slammed back and forth
Leaves rushed in across the floor
And I just sit here staring

Lightning flashed and thunder roared
The rain uninvited through my door
Dancing, rain dancing with the wind
And I just sit here staring

Flickered lights to darkened home
The power hushed has fled in fear
Blackened in no light to spare
And I just sit here staring

The stormy sounds like lions roar
Stampeding rhythm of beating heart
Trembling hands fight off the dark
And I just sit here staring

Time creeps by the sun peeks out
The winds they hide and seek no more
I finally rise to shut the door
And I just stand here staring.

My Everything

2009-07-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

You are the stars that's in my sky,
the twinkle in my eye.
My thought throughout my day,
the path that leads my way.

The test that stood the time,
my rhythm and the rhyme.
Much love that's always true,
and violets always blue.

You are my symphony,
my chorus that I sing.
My love, my life, my dream,
my everything.

The Toy Box

2009-05-21T06:04:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: Genesis 12:1-4, 13:5-7, 13:8

Props: Bible

Cast: Two actors

(Actor 1 is already on stage. Actor 2 runs on stage, turns to look off stage and shouts...)

Actor 2: That’s fine! I don’t care what you think!

Actor 1: Wow, what’s wrong with you?

Actor 2: Ah, you wouldn’t understand.

Actor 1: I might. Try me.

Actor 2: It’s my brother. He thinks he has to have all of his stuff lying around! Well, I’ve got news for him. I have stuff too!

Actor 1: So you and your brother are arguing?

Actor 2: Yes, and now our sisters are fussing about it also. One is on his side and the other is on my side. It’s all one big mess!

Actor 1: So what is it all about?

Actor 2: Me and my brother share a bedroom. I have one side and he has the other. He keeps on piling all his stuff on my side. I have my own stuff and my space is my space. There is no room for all of his junk!

Actor 1: This reminds me of Abram and Lot.

Actor 2: You better believe a lot. A lot more then some ole broom is going to take care of.

Actor 1: I said Abram and Lot. Abram, later known as Abraham? You know, the ancestor of God’s people? Remember Abraham from the Old Testament?

Actor 2: Yes I remember him. Who’s the other guy?

Actor 1: Lot is his name and he was Abram’s nephew.

Actor 2: Ok, I’ve got it now. Why does all of this remind you of them.

Actor 1: Let me read you something from Genesis 12: 1 - 4. (read the scripture)

Actor 2: Wow, a great nation, blessings and all of that stuff.

Actor 1: Yes God blessed him very much. But because Lot was with Abram he was also blessed. Let me read this from Genesis 13: 5 - 7. (read scripture)

Actor 2: See that’s just what I mean. All of that stuff that Lot had just got in the way of Abram’s stuff. That’s what I’m talking about! So what did Abram do? Did he give him the ole one two punch?

Actor 1: No!

Actor 2: I know he kicked him out of the house!

Actor 1: No, not exactly!

Actor 2: Well what then?

Actor 1: Here’s what he did. It say’s in Genesis 13: 8 (read scripture)

Actor 2: What? No fighting?

Actor 1: No, no fighting. Both Abram and Lot knew that fighting was wrong. They knew that God is not pleased when we argue and fight. When we choose others first, it pleases God. They talked and worked out the problem.

Actor 2: Your right. I know God doesn’t want us to act that way. We need to sit down and work out a solution.

Actor 1: How about a toy box?

Actor 2: A what?

Actor 1: A toy box. It’s a big box that you put your toys in or any other stuff you have laying around.

Actor 2: Wow, that’s a great idea. I’ve never heard of that before. Did you just think of that? You’re a genius! That’s amazing! You know you should market that. He will love that idea.....

(Actor 1 just walks off while Actor 2 continues to ramble on...)

(If you use... Give credit where credit is due)

The Mulch King?

2009-05-14T04:38:00.000-07:00

Famous Last Words

2009-04-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: John 19:30 NIV

Cast: 2 Actors.

(Actor 1 is pacing back and forth with paper and pencil in hand.)

Actor 1: (Speaking to himself) The deathbed can lead people to speak with great honesty and, in many cases, humor. Many of these people helped to form our world as we know it. They were great leaders, great speakers, great writers and some made a great sacrifice for mankind…

(Actor 2 enters.)

Actor 2: Preparing for you speech huh?

Actor 1: Yes, but I’m not sure if I’ve got the real… you know… the “reach out and grab ya” I need.

Actor 2: So what is your speech about?

Actor 1: Famous last words.

Actor 2: So, I take you are speaking about famous last…

Actor 1: Yeah, famous last words!

Actor 2: Would that be famous last words of famous people?

Actor 1: Well, I guess… well, yeah in order for them to be famous last words I guess it would have to come from famous people.

Actor 2: So what do you have so far?

Actor 1: (Clears throat) J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan said, “I can’t sleep” just before his death. This statement is true but some you may never hear about. Such as, “Hey Bubba, watch this!” or, “I drank what?”

Actor 2: (Laughing) I like that. Hit them with humor!

Actor 1: Yeah, I’ve got the humor part covered but I need a good ending. No pun intended!

Actor 2: Well, what ending do you have?

Actor 1: Here’s what I have. Now I shall go to sleep – Lord Bryon.

Actor 2: That’s it?

Actor 1: I told you!

Actor 2: Why don’t you speak about forgiveness? Like forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…

Actor 1: What? Actor 2, my speech is about famous last words. Not forgiveness!! Stay on topic please!

Actor 2: I am on topic. I’m talking about the famous last words of…

Actor 1: …of who? I’ve got the list right here! I don’t see anything about forgiveness! Topic please!

Actor 2: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Actor 1: Hey, calm down. I’ll tell you why. Because this is what they asked me to speak on that’s why!

Actor 2: No, that’s the famous last words of…

Actor 1: Actor 2! Of who? I’ve got the list right here! I don’t see anything about forsaken! Again, topic please!

Actor 2: How about I am thirsty?

Actor 1: (Gives a funny look) Okay, if you’re thirsty go get you a drink.

Actor 2: No! Not me!

Actor 1: Well thanks, but I’m not thirsty!

Actor 2: That’s what Jesus said!

Actor 1: (Gives a funny look) Are you ok? Remember my speech? Famous last words?

Actor 2: That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you!! Why don’t you use the famous last words of Jesus?!?!

Actor 1: You know, I never thought of that. So what did he say?

Actor 2: Again, that’s what I’ve been trying to tell you silly!

Actor 1: Forgive them, why, I’m thirsty?

Actor 2: Yes, read it for yourself.

(Actor 2 hands Actor 1 the Bible)

Actor 1: (Reading from the Bible) When He had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

Actor 2: It was for the forgiveness of sins, that’s why… for the thirsty.

(Actor 1 writes as he says…)

Actor 1: The greatest words ever uttered by the greatest man that ever lived. “It is finished.” – Jesus

(Lights go dark. They exit)

(If you use... Give credit where credit is due)

The Sheep and the Goats

2009-04-22T13:58:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46

Props: Bible, chair, trunk, crown, globe or map, signs (see below), TV dinner box, can of soda, jacket and bandage.

Cast: Two actors

Actor 1: Good afternoon everyone. We would like to demonstrate to you Matthew 25:31-46, The Sheep and the Goats.

Actor 2: How are we going to do that?

Actor 1: We are going to act out the scripture.

Actor 2: WE are?

Actor 1: Well, let me clarify. I’m going to read the scripture and you are going to act it out.

Actor 2: How come you get to read and I have to act it out?

Actor 1: Because you are so strong and in shape and I just don’t know if I can do all of the manly stuff.

At this point Actor 2 comes forward and flexes his muscles while Actor 1 steps behind Actor 2 and to the side and laughs behind Actor 2’s back.

Actor 2: You know I suppose you are right.

Actor 1: Yes, of course. Here are all your props you will need to act everything out. (Points to the trunk behind them)

Actor 2: Ok, I’m ready.

Actor 1: I’ll stand over here and read the scripture.

Actor 2: Ok, take it away.

Actor 1: 31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory.

(Actor 2 get a folding chair and sets it in the center of the stage. He grabs a crown from the trunk and places it on the chair.)

Actor 1: 32All the nations will be gathered before him,

(Actor 2 grabs a globe or map of the world from the trunk and places it in front of the chair.)

Actor 1: and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

(Actor 2 grabs some signs from the trunk. One saying SHEEP and the other saying GOATS. He places these signs on either side of the chair.)

Actor 1: (looking at Actor 2) You are doing such a good job!

Actor 2: (acting a little winded) Thanks! Are we done yet?

Actor 1: No, we have plenty more. 34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.

(Actor 2 gets a sign from the trunk that says, YOUR INHERITANCE, THE KINGDOM and places it to the far right of the stage.)

Actor 1: 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,

(Actor 2 grabs a TV dinner from the trunk and looks around… seeing there is no one to give it to he goes into the audience and gets a volunteer and bring them up on the stage and hands them the TV dinner to hold.)

Actor 1: (looking at Actor 2) Very good idea.

Actor 2: Thank you.

Actor 1: I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,

(Actor 2 goes to the trunk and gets a can of soda and hands it to the volunteer.)

Actor 1: I was a stranger and you invited me in,

(Actor 2 grabs a sign from the trunk (with string attached) that says, STRANGER and places the sign around the volunteer’s neck and then gives him/her a hug.)

Actor 1: 36I needed clothes and you clothed me,

(Actor 2 grabs a sweater or jacket from the trunk and places it on the shoulders of the volunteer.)

Actor 1: I was sick and you looked after me,

(Actor 2 grabs a bandage and wraps it around the volunteer)

Actor 1: I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

(Actor 2 grabs a sign from the trunk that says, JAIL and hands it to the volunteer and hugs him/her.)

Actor 1: 37"Then the righteous will answer him,

(Actor 2 grabs a sign from the trunk that says, RIGHTEOUS and holds it in front of him and mimics what Actor 1 is about to read.)

Actor 1: 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' 40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Actor 1: You have done a great job!

Actor 2: Thank you. Are we finished?

Actor 1: Oh no, there’s more. 41"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

(Actor 2 grabs a sign from the trunk that says, ETERNAL FIRE and places in on the stage at the far left.)

Actor 1: 42For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat,

(Actor 2 takes away the TV dinner from the volunteer and places it back in the trunk.)

Actor 1: I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,

(Actor 2 takes away the soda from the volunteer and places it back in the trunk.)

Actor 1: 43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in,

(Actor 2 takes away the STRANGER sign and places it back in the trunk.)

Actor 1: I needed clothes and you did not clothe me,

(Actor 2 takes away the sweater and places it back in the trunk.)

Actor 1: I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

(Actor 2 takes away the bandages and the JAIL sign from the volunteer.)

Actor 1: 44"They also will answer,

(Actor 2 mimics what Actor 1 is about to read.)

Actor 1: 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' 45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' 46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

(Actor 1 then points that Actor 2 should walk over to the ETERNAL FIRE sign. Actor 2 shakes his/her head NO!)

Actor 1: Come on you neglected the hungry, the thirsty, the cold, the sick and those in prison. You have to go here!

(pointing to the sign)

Actor 2: I don’t want to go over there. I want to go over there!

(pointing to the other sign)

Actor 1: So you’re telling me that you are willing to follow what Jesus commanded us to do and that if we do it to one of these (point to volunteer) we are doing it for Him?

Actor 2: Yes, that exactly what I’m saying!

Actor 1: I’m proud of you. That’s what I want to do also. So, let’s go out into the world and follow God’s command together.

Actor 2: (looking to audience) Are you willing to join us?

Actor 1: Let us all follow His command.

(Exit the stage along with your volunteer.)

(If you use... Give credit where credit is due)

The Pew

2009-04-15T06:55:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: None

Props: Two chairs

Cast: Two actors

(Actor 1 enters and sits in a chair facing the audience. Actor 2 enters and stands beside Actor 1 looking at him/her)

Actor 1: (Looking up to Actor 2) Oh, I’m sorry, do you need to get through?

Actor 2: I can see you are new here.

Actor 1: Yes, I am.

Actor 2: Welcome!

Actor 1: Thank you!

Actor 2: I hate to be rude but I really need to let you know that you are sitting in my space.

Actor 1: Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know this was your space. Are you sure this is the right pew?

Actor 2: Yes, I’m very sure. I’ve been going here since I was a small child.

Actor 1: Wow, that long huh?

Actor 2: Oh yes, and I’ve been sitting in this same pew all my life. I can get to this pew blind folded.

Actor 1: Blind folded huh?

Actor 2: Yes.

Actor 1: That’s amazing.

Actor 2: So?

Actor 1: So, what?

Actor 2: Are you going to move so I can sit down?

Actor 1: I would but I can’t.

Actor 2: Why is that?

Actor 1: Because God led me here to this pew. I fully believe in following the will of God so I wouldn’t want to disappoint God and sit somewhere that He didn’t want me to sit.

Actor 2: Will of God?

Actor 1: Yes. The will of God.

Actor 2: I don’t believe it was His will to have you sit here.

Actor 1: Why do you think that?

Actor 2: Because I didn’t feel the Spirit leading me to move.

Actor 1: Really? I find that strange.

Actor 2: Why?

Actor 1: I feel God moving me all the time.

Actor 2: Well, God hasn’t moved me in years. Like I said, I’ve been in the same spot all my life.

Actor 1: Perhaps you should step out on faith and try it.

Actor 2: Try what?

Actor 1: Moving.

Actor 2: Move on faith?

Actor 1: Yes, sometimes He would like us to take that first step.

Actor 2: That just wouldn’t be the right thing to do.

Actor 1: To step out on faith?

Actor 2: Yes, faith has nothing to do with it.

Actor 1: I beg to differ. Faith has everything to do with it.

Actor 2: Listen, I know you are a visitor here so I know you wouldn’t want to start out on the wrong foot.

Actor 1: Oh no. I would never want to rock the boat. But sometimes God has us to go into uncharted waters. You know, to step out of our comfort zone.

Actor 2: Yes, I would agree, but...

Actor 1: Good, I’m glad you agree with me on that.

Actor 2: No, that’s not what I mean.

Actor 1: So what do you mean?

Actor 2: Well, I don’t know. I’m not sure I remember what we were talking about.

Actor 1: Stepping out.

Actor 2: Oh yes. You were going to move, right?

Actor 1: I can’t.

Actor 2: Oh yes, God told you to sit here.

Actor 1: Yes, He told me this pew was empty.

Actor 2: No, it’s never empty. This is where I sit.

Actor 1: Well...

Actor 2: You don’t mean?

Actor 1: I would never say that.

Actor 2: I didn’t think so.

Actor 1: Perhaps we should pray about it?

Actor 2: Pray about it? I don’t need to do that!

Actor 1: So you don’t pray?

Actor 2: Yes, I pray, but I don’t need to pray about this.

Actor 1: Well, what if you were to sit over there (pointing)?

Actor 2: I couldn’t do that. That’s Sister Sue’s seat.

Actor 1: Well what about over there (pointing)?

Actor 2: No, that’s Brother Bob’s seat!

Actor 1: Sounds like all the seats are taken. Now I know how Joseph and Mary felt.

Actor 2: No, there’s plenty of room.

Actor 1: I’m not sure about that. No faith, no stepping out, no prayer, no humility, and no room.

Actor 2: I’m not sure I understand just what you mean.

Actor 1: Well, you spoke about being blind folded.

Actor 2: Yes I did, but...

Actor 1: Perhaps you should remove the one you’re wearing?

Actor 2: I beg your pardon. I’m not...

Actor 1: No sir..., I beg your pardon.... I believe this is your seat.

(Actor 1 gets up and exits and Actor 2 sits down)

(If you use... Give credit where credit is due)

Standing Strong

2009-04-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: None

Props: Bible, rope

Cast: Two actors

(Actor 2 is on stage doing some jumping jacks as Actor 1 enters)

Actor 1: Actor 2, what are you doing?

Actor 2: Working out.

Actor 1: Why?

Actor 2: Because God will honor us for standing strong. So I'm working out to get strong.

(Actor 2 lifting up arms to do shoulder presses)

Actor 1: (Waving their hand in front of their face or holding their nose) Oh, you’re getting strong all right!

Actor 2: I know, I'm feeling stronger with every rep I do.

Actor 1: Well how strong do you have to be to stand strong?

Actor 2: I'm not sure. I guess I could see if I'm strong enough right now.

(Actor 2 gets some kids from the audience and plays tug-a-war)

Actor 2: It appears that I need to workout some more. I'm just not there yet.

Actor 1: You might try using this.

(Actor 1 hands Actor 2 a Bible)

Actor 2: Thanks but I think I will stick with the weights.

Actor 1: You need to exercise the mind!

Actor 2: How will that help me to get strong?

Actor 1: What God is saying is that He will honor us for standing strong on values, God's values.

Actor 2: That's just like you. Always thinking about a value.

Actor 1: I'm talking about Godly values. The fruits of the Spirit come to mind. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We can find value in each one of these.

Actor 2: I'm talking about strength!

Actor 1: So am I. We can find strength in love. We can find strength in joy, peace, kindness self-control. In all of these...

Actor 2; Ok, I get it! The Bible says that God is my strength.

Actor 1: Right. (looks at audience) Honor God and He will honor you.

They exit.

(If you use... Give credit where credit is due)

Saved!

2009-04-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: Eph. 2:8,9

Props: Phone

Cast: Actor 1 (A1), Actor 2 (A2)

(A1 is already on stage. A2 enters making a phone call)

A1: Who are you calling?

A2: Grace.

A1: Grace who?

A2: You know Grace. She lives down the street from you.

A1: Oh, that Grace. Why are you calling her?

A2: I need to call Grace so she can get in touch with Faith.

A1: Faith who?

A2: You know Faith. That’s Graces’ friend.

A1: So you’re calling Grace, so she can call Faith…

A2: So I can be saved.

A1: Saved from whom, from what?

A2: To get the gift!

A1: Gift?

A2: The gift of God.

A1: So you are calling Grace, to call Faith, to be saved and get the gift?

A2: Yep, I thought I might be able buy it, maybe get a job, but this seems to be the only way. He’s not hiring right now.

A1: He’s not.

A2: Yep, no works.

A1: Forgive me, but I think I’m a little bit confused.

A2: Sorry about the confusion.

A1: Well?

A2: Well what?

A1: Will you explain it to me?

A2: Ok, I was reading the Bible last night and I got to the part where it talks about how we need to be saved by Grace through Faith…

A1: Hold on!

A2: I thought you wanted…

A1: No need to finish. I already know what you are going to say and I want to correct you before you make a mistake.

A2: Well thanks!

A1: That is not what that means. Grace is not the girl down the street and faith is not her friend.

A2: Sure their friends. I’ve seen them together.

A1: No, what the Bible is speaking about is grace such as God’s grace. Let me explain it to you.

A2: Ok.

A1: When a person works an eight-hour day and receives a fair day's pay for his time, what is that called?

A2: That would be a wage.

A1: Good. When a person competes in a race and wins a trophy, what is that called?

A2: That would be a prize.

A1: Good. So, when a person receives recognition for his long service or high achievements, what is that called?

A2: An award?

A1: That’s great! But when a person is not capable of earning a wage, can win no prize, and deserves no reward - yet receives such a gift anyway - that is a good picture of God's unmerited favor. This is what a Christian means when we talk about the grace of God.

A2: But what about faith?

A1: Simple. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the sign that the things not seen are true.

A2: So even though I can’t see it I must believe it. I do that by faith.

A1: That’s right.

A2: But what about works?

A1: Well, God doesn’t want you to have to do anything. The verse says, “not buy works, o that no one can boast.” If you think you can do something that would earn you something you might boast about it. God doesn’t want you to do that. A gift is free and doesn’t cost you anything.

A2: So what is it that I accept?

A1: Him

A2: Him?

A1: Yes. God wants you to accept His Son. To believe by faith that God sent Jesus to this earth to live a sinless life and to die on a cross for our sins. You must accept that, believe that.

A2: Oh, I do!

A1: Here’s the good part. After three days had passed God raised Him from the dead and brought Him back to heaven where He is preparing a place for those who have accepted Him as Lord and Savior.

A2: But how do I do that? Accept Him?

A1: It’s simple. You must say a prayer, asking God to forgive your sins, repenting of your sins and believing what I have just told you.

A2: I would really like to do that.

A1: Well, we can do that right here. But you must do it. I can’t do it for you.

A2: Ok.

(Actors kneel and A2 prays to receive Christ)

A1: Congratulations!

A2: That felt great!

A1: Come with me and I’ll explain more about salvation and baptism.

(Actors exit)

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

Jesus and the Samaritan woman

2009-03-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: John 4

Props: Microphone, bucket

Cast: Reporter, Samaritan woman

Reporter: Good evening ladies and gentleman. This Skipper Jones reporter for channel 7 news. I’m here in Samaria searching for a woman who supposedly came in contact with Jesus. Just to bring you up to date I’ll give you some background on the case. Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard, “Jesus is baptizing and making more disciples than John”. So he left Judea to return to Galilee. He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and....

Hold on here comes a woman now...

Reporter: Excuse me ma’am, Skipper Jones from Channel 7 news could I ask you a few questions?

Woman: Yes.

Reporter: Ma’am I’m looking for the woman who supposedly came in contact with Jesus at this well.

Woman: I am that woman.

Reporter: This is exciting. I’m standing here with the woman who came in contact with Jesus. Could you tell me a little bit about that day?

Woman: Yes. Jesus was sitting on the ground where you are standing and He asked if I would please give Him a drink.

Reporter: Where were his disciples?

Woman: Gone into the village to buy some food.

Reporter: It says here that you were surprised. Why?

Woman: Because Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans.

Reporter: Then why did Jesus ask you for a drink?

Woman: That is what I asked him. I said, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?”

Reporter: It says here in my notes that He said, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who I am, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.”

Woman: Yes. That is what He said.

Reporter: Ma’am. Have you ever heard of dead water?

Woman: Yes.

Reporter: Could you define the two?

Woman: Yes. Living water is active. Dead water is stagnate.

Reporter: Can you recall what happened next?

Woman: Yes. I told Him, “But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket and this is a very deep well. Where would you get this living water?

Reporter: It says here that you said, and I quote, “And besides, are you greater than our ancestor Jacob who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his cattle enjoyed?”

Woman: Yes. That is what I said.

Reporter: Do you think that was an appropriate question to ask... Jesus?

Woman: I did not know it was Him at the time.

Reporter: Oh. (pause) It is also reported that Jesus said, “People soon become thirsty again after drinking this water. But the water I give them takes away thirst altogether. It becomes a perpetual spring within them, giving them eternal life.”

Woman: Yes. I asked Him, “Please, sir, give me some of that water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to haul water.”

Reporter: But Jesus told you to go and get your husband. Did He not?

Woman: Yes.

Reporter: And is it true that you did not have a husband?

Woman: Yes. That is what I told Him.

Reporter: And in fact Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband—for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now.”

Woman: I told him, “you must be a prophet. So tell me, why is it that you Jews insist that Jerusalem is the only place of worship, while we Samaritans claim it is here at Mount Gerizim, where our ancestors worshiped?”

Reporter: Ah ha! It all comes down to worship doesn’t it?

Woman: What?

Reporter: Anyway. I have here that Jesus said, “Believe me, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father here or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans know so little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews. But the time is coming and is already here when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for anyone who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” Is that true?

Woman: Yes. I told Him, “I know the Messiah will come—the one who is called Christ. When he comes, He will explain everything to us.”

Reporter: And what did He say?

Woman: He told me, “I who speak to you am He.”

Reporter: Well, there you have it. Did Jesus ever get His drink of water? I guess we’ll never know. One thing is for sure. This woman will never go thirsty again. I’m Skipper Jones for Channel 7 news.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

Triumph over temptation

2009-03-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

(a reading)

Scripture: James 1:12-18

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2
A1/A2: Actor 1 and 2 together

A1: I am blessed when I survive temptation

A2: When I am recognized I will receive my crown

A1: The Lord has promised

A2: A vow and covenant

A1/A2: Because we love Him.

A1: When temptation seeks to find me

A2: When temptation raps upon my door

A1: Is God within the midst of seduction?

A2: No, God cannot be tempted

A1: Nor will He bait a trap to seduce me

A2: My very own flesh is my seduction

A1: It draws me toward my desires

A2: Like a moth to a flame

A1: I am enticed by its grand parade of light

A2: If I reach for the flame I bring on the pains of labor

A1: I will give birth and name him sin

A2: And when he has grown he will bring forth death

A1: I must not answer

A2: The harder he knocks

A1: The more I must turn

A2: Listen, I must listen

A1: I hear a voice calling

A2: My beloved brethren

A1: Every good gift

A2: Every perfect gift

A1: Is from above

A2: It comes down

A1: It rains

A2: From the Father

A1: My father

A1/A2: Our Heavenly Father

A2: There is no variation

A1: Or shadow of turning

A2: He brought us forth

A1: His own will to do so

A2: By the word of truth

A1: That we might be firstfruits

A2: An offering

A1: To the Father

A2: My Father

A1/A2: Our Heavenly Father

A2: I am blessed when I survive temptation

A1: Victorious

A2: When I am recognized

A1: Standing on the center podium

A2: I will receive my crown

A1: My medal

A2: The Lord has promised

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

It’s Just Money Honey

2009-03-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

By Steve Conley

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2

(A1 enters with some shopping bags. She’s exhausted and sits down in the chair. A2 is already seated.)

A1: Wow, I am exhausted! My dogs sure are barking!

A2: Why are you so tired? You were just going to the drug store to get some aspirin.

A1: I know and it’s a good thing I picked up some Dr. Scholl’s® inserts. If I hadn’t have done that, wow, my feet would be too tired to even work like feet!

A2: What do you mean picked up some inserts? What does that have to do with buying aspirin?

A1: Well honey, when you know you’re going to be on your feet for awhile you need a little more than aspirin. You need the cushiness of the doctor and boy are my feet gellin’!

A2: But you were just going to get aspirin, and look, it’s been 3 hours! Where did you go to get the aspirin? Did they stop selling it in Tennessee? Did you have to go across the border?

A1: No but I did go into Borders®. I bought some really great books.

A2: Books? What books? Why?

A1: Well, Borders was next door to World Bazaar® where I bought a great looking vase.

A2: Vase? Why?

A1: Well, I needed new vase so I could put the new plant in that I bought.

A2: What’s wrong with the other vases we have laying around the house? The vases that have nothing in them.

A1: Well, they didn’t match the new pillows that I bought.

A2: New pillows? Plants? A vase? Books?

A1; Yes and that’s not all…

A2: Hold on! Where did you get the money to pay for all of this?

A1: Money?

A2: Yes, money! You had to have money to buy all these things, right?

A1: Oh, we had the money. I checked our account before I left.

A2: No, no, no. We didn’t have the money.

A1: Yes we did. I looked at our balance. It said we had $534.00 in checking.

A2: No, we don’t. I had that money budgeted. It’s not really there.

A1: Oh it’s there. The little print out said it was there.

A2: Okay, wait. You need to pretend that it’s not there.

A1: Why do I need to do that when it said it was there?

A2: Because I’ve budgeted that money. It’s there, but it’s not really there.

A1: A2, here let me give you some aspirin. I don’t think you are feeling well.

A2: No I feel fine.

A1: Honey, it’s there. No need for pretending or acting.

A2: A1, I budget so much money every week for the different bills we have. Our checking account is kind of like a holding tank until those bills come due each month.

A1: Well, we still have time. It’s still there. Or was still there. You can just replace it.

A2: Replace it with what?

A1: When the rebate check comes in the mail we can take that money and put it back.

A2: Rebate? For what?

A1: Well, you know Gadget City is going out of business so I got in on the sale and bought a new underwater radio.

A2: Underwater radio? What are you planning on doing with an underwater radio?

A1: A2, you never know when you’re going to need these things!

A2: How are we ever going to get out of debt if we keep buying underwater radios?

A1: Did you buy one too?

A2: No! I’m just saying. We can’t keep spending what we don’t have!

A1: But we did have…

A2: I know, I know what you’re going to say and I don’t want to hear it! A1, we’ve got to learn to take some practical steps to spend smarter and make some personal goals to move us toward getting out of debt.

A1: I am totally with you on getting out of debt!

A2: Really?

A1: Yes. That’s why I bought you this book for $34.99 on how to set up a budget.

A2: What? Ah!

(A2 starts to exit)

A1: …And it comes with a DVD set that’s mailed to us every month for $54.95. A2? They bill monthly! A2? We can take the pretend money and pay for it! A2!

(A1 exits)

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

How to be blessed by the Bible

2009-03-04T06:24:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: James 1:19-27

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2

A1 enters with an 8 ball in one hand and a Bible in the other hand.

A1: (Shaking the 8 ball) God, will I have a blessed day? (looks down at the answer the 8 ball gives) Reply hazy, try again. (shaking the 8 ball asks again) God, will this be a blessed day? (looks at 8 ball) Concentrate and ask again) I’m beginning to think this thing is broken! God, how can I be blessed? (looks at 8 ball again) Are you kidding? Am I kidding? No I’m not kidding! I really need to know.

A2 enters.

A2: What are you doing with that thing?

A1: It’s an 8 ball. I’m asking it questions.

A2: Really?

A1: Yes, watch this. (speaking to 8 ball) 8 ball, am I a good person? (shaking and looking) Outlook so so.

A2: I can’t believe you are asking an 8 ball questions. Don’t you know that thing is just a toy? It’s not real!

A1: Yes, but I can get some quick answers.

A2: I’m finding it hard to believe you have an 8 ball in one hand and a Bible in the other and you’re looking for answers from a toy instead of the Bible.

A1: Oh, I look through the Bible also, but like I said, this is just the fast way.

A2: You can ask all day with that but you will not find God’s true answers or be able to receive His blessings from an 8 ball.

A1: Hey that was one of my questions. Will I be blessed?

A2: Well, you can be blessed by the Bible. Did you know that?

A1: How so?

A2: Did you know in America, Bibles are everywhere. Yet millions of people still miss the blessing of the Bible?

A1: Why?

A2: Because it's not automatic like that 8 ball. The Bible is a Book of blessing. It promises comfort, strength, hope, wisdom, joy, power, and purpose. But just because you have a Bible doesn't mean you're going to get the benefit from it.

A1: But I need the benefit!

A2: Listen; there are steps on how to be blessed by the Bible. Let me show you. First you need to receive God’s word. See, it says here in James 1:21, “Accept the Word planted in you.” If we're going to be blessed by the Word of God, first we must welcome the Word into our lives. We must be receptive. James says we must receive the word of God with the right attitude. He gives us four attitudes, be Careful. “Be quick to listen...” , (vs. 19) be Calm. “…and slow to become angry…” (vs. 19b) Be Clean. “…get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent…” (vs. 21) and be Compliant. “…humbly accept the Word of God planted in you” (vs. 21b)

A1: Hey you know me. I can do all of those things. I’m careful, I’m calm, I’m slow to anger, I’m rid of all moral filth and I’m humble!

A2: Hummm… yes, well we also need to reflect on God’s word like it says in verse 23. Here look in this mirror.

A2 hands A1 a mirror.

A1: Oh would you look at me!

A2: Humble huh?

A1: Ah, yes, I think so.

A2: James says (reading), “22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.” You see, God's Word is like a mirror. The purpose of a mirror is to evaluate us. God says a mirror reflects what we're like on the outside. God's Word reflects what we're like on the inside. Here (handing A1 the Bible), I want you to read this part.

A1: Ok, “25But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.”

A2: There are three ways to reflect on the Word of God. Read it, review it and remember it!

A1: So, I need to focus my attention on the Word of God. Meditate on the Word of God, and memorize the Word of God.

A2: Yes, and like the good Book says, “he will be blessed in what he does.”

A1: In what “we” do.

A2: You’ve got it!

A1 (shakes 8 ball and asks) Will A2 buy me lunch? (looking at 8 ball) Yes, definitely!

A2: My sources say no!

A1 and A2 exit.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

God’s perspective on wealth and poverty

2009-02-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: James 1:9-11

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2

A1 and A2 enter. A1 is looking at a piece of paper.

A1: Will you look at this! How can we afford this? It never fails, just when you think you’re at the top of the hill you get kicked back down again!

A1 looks at A2. A2 seems to be not paying attention.

A1: Are you listening to me? This is serious! I feel like I’m Jack rolling down the hill and I’ve broken my crown. A crown that I will never have!

A2: Trust me, I’m listening. I can’t help from it. You need to calm down a little bit.

A1: Calm down? Are we even on the same page? We do share the same fortune you know. Which appears to be going fast!

A2: You need to have a little more faith.

A1: Ok, here we go. What I need to have is a little more money! I bet Harvey and Jane never worry about any of this stuff.

A2: Now why do you mention Harvey and Jane?

A1: Have you seen the new car they have?

A2: Yes. Is that not the prettiest car you have ever seen?

A1: Yes, and I bet it came with a pretty price tag also. While we’re over here drowning in poverty they are on the cruise ship of wealth!

A2: Now you can’t say that. I’m sure they worked hard for that new car.

A1: Worked hard? Why Harvey has never lifted a finger to do anything. It just falls into his lap. That’s right, the lap of luxury!

A2: You know the Bible says we should glory in our exaltation.

A1: Oh, so I should boast about everything I don’t have? (yelling) Hey everyone, look at me! Look at how much I don’t have! Don’t you wish you could be like me?

A2: No, we should boast in being perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

A1: I don’t know about perfect and complete but I sure got the lacking in nothing covered.

A2: Some day the one who lacks so much now will be brought up, exalted, to a place of completion and fullness. We should look forward to the future, not boasting in the present, but in what God is going to do.

A1: I know you’re right. But what ever happened to fairness? Why couldn’t we be more like Harvey and Jane?

A2: Well, I’m sure they have hard times just like we do. You know just as well as I do that Harvey and Jane have seen their share of troubles.

A1: True, but they always come out smelling like a rose. And have you seen the price of roses lately?

A2: Roses? What’s that?

A1: Ah, never mind that last statement.

A2: The Bible also says the rich should boast in their humiliation, because like the flower of the grass he will pass away. The rich appear to have no difficulties in life. What the Bible is saying is that they certainly do have trials as well.

A1: Oh the trials of being rich!

A2: These are the trials of being tempted to trust in one's wealth and believe that they are some kind of sign of one's eternal place or status. Riches will fade away, they will be temporary. Riches do not help one to receive what God has to offer, in fact, they may very well be a barrier to it.

A1: So, it is actually the rich man himself that fades away. He himself is changed from pride in his possessions to humility in recognizing his own spiritual poverty before God.

A2: Now I think you’re getting it!

A1: So, for the rich believer, his boasting is in the triumph of God over his delusion about his own true condition. He my be fooled into believing that his riches gave him a reason to think that he was spiritually rich. However, in the end, through his trials, it will become clear that God is the real and only life-giver, not riches.

A2: You are right again. So do you still feel like you would want to live in Harvey and Jane’s shoes?

A1: Well…..

A2: Really?

A1: No, not really. Harvey and Jane are good people. I just got caught up in the moment. I’d like to stay right here rolling down my own little hill.

A2: You know everything’s going to be ok. With God’s help we’ll get through this and come out better on the other side.

A1: How right you are.

A1 and A2 exit.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

How to be a wise person

2009-02-18T13:20:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: James 1:5-18

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2

A1 enters wearing a cap and gown (graduation), wearing glasses and carrying an encyclopedia.

A1: (pacing slowly across the stage as in great thought) Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life. - Immanuel Kant, A man is wise with the wisdom of his time only, and ignorant with its ignorance. - Henry David Thoreau

A2: Enters carrying a plumbing fixture and a book.

A2: Honey, the sink has messed up again don’t you thin you should… (looks strangely at A1) What is this garb you have on?

A1: To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly. - Henri Bergson

A2: What?

A1: How do I look?

A2: Do you really want to know?

A1: No need. Vision is the art of seeing the invisible. - Jonathan Swift

A2: I think someone gave you a swift knock on the head! Maybe we should take you to see the men in white coats and padded walls. Cause that’s exactly what I’m about to do if you do snap out of this vision!

A1: Ok, don’t get so excited! I can tell you’re not impressed.

A2: Impressed about what?

A1: Look at me.

A2: (stepping back) Ok.

A1: What do you see?

A2: A flash back from High School. You still look as goofy now as you did back then.
A1: Forget that! Does this not make me look smarter?

A2: Quite the opposite. Oh, and don’t let the kids see you in this. We’re trying to get them to graduation, not to run from it.

A1: That’s really funny. I can see already that my plan is working.

A2: What plan?

A1: In order for us to undergo trials we need special wisdom from God to face them. Thus, you get what you see, a man filled with wisdom.

A2: I see a man that should be wise enough to know better!

A1: Don’t shoot me down for trying.

A2: I applaud your effort but the way you are going about it is all wrong.

A1: And you have a better idea?

A2: I don’t, but God does. God wants to bring His children to maturity as spiritual adults. Wisdom is sometimes defined as "the right use of knowledge." It involves applying the truth that we know to the situations that we confront. And trust me; you should never confront anything looking like that!

A1: You know me. When I do something I do it right!

A2: (laughing) That statement shows your lack of wisdom! Understand that all wisdom centers in God. Without a knowledge of God, we can’t understand life’s circumstances. The right thing to do is to continually seek wisdom from God. There is no room here for self-sufficiency or spiritual pride.

A1: I understand what you’re saying but I thought I would just seek this one on my own. Besides, can you imagine how busy God is?

A2: You need to understand the character of God. He is a giving God. We need have no fear of rejection when we come to God for wisdom. He does not ridicule us. Our past failures are not brought up to shame us. Even if we come to Him looking like this. (point to outfit)

A1: So a proper view of the character of God as a giving God will encourage us in coming to Him for wisdom?

A2: Yes, but if we expect to receive the wisdom we need, we must come in faith. We must trust that God is able and willing to do as He has promised.

A1: But sometimes I feel like I’m under great deal of pressure!

A2: Sometimes we feel like the world is crashing down and we begin wondering if God really loves us, doing what’s best for us, and will He see us through as promised. We must fully rely in Him and come as His children asking Him to do as He promised. (pause) Do this for me; wave your arms back and forth.

(A1 holds his arms out and waves them like imitating a tree blowing in the wind.)

A1: Like this?

A2: Yes, the Bible says, one who doubts is like a wave of the sea. Waves are at the mercy of the wind. If our faith is not firmly placed in God we lack stability in life. For a time there is confidence and joy in God. Then, as trials come and persist, there is doubt and wavering. It is a life of instability. (pause) You can stop waving now.

A1: So this is how break dancing feels.

A2: Listen, we can be sure beyond a doubt that God will give wisdom for trials to those who ask of Him. We must ask in faith, believing that He is able and willing. That is the “plan” for us as believers.

A1: Ok, I understand what you’re saying. Sounds like a great plan to me and much better than mine!

A2: Good, but I’ve got another way you can gain wisdom and to be a wise person.

A1: Really, what’s that?

A2: (hands A1 a book) Read this book on plumbing and apply that wisdom to fixing the sink!

A1: Real funny… real funny!

A1 & A2 exit.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

Lord, I struggle

2009-02-11T06:48:00.000-08:00

Lord, I struggle with time
Time and I we fight
It’s robbed me of my past
And stealing away my future

Lord, I struggle with faith
Faith and I we fight
It’s always been so weak
And has never let me down

Lord, I struggle with sin
Sin and I we fight
It’s forever on my mind
And forever friends with time

Lord, I struggle with hope
Hope and I we fight
It’s always at a distance
And constant companion to faith

Lord, I struggle
Struggle and I we fight
It’s there without my knowledge
And seeps in a little at a time

Lord, It’s good that you’re here
Cause I’d never win my fights
Faith and hope rule time and sin
My weakness, your strength
My distance, you’re closeness

Overcoming Trials and Problems

2009-02-09T06:57:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

Scripture: James 1:2-12

A1: Actor 1
A2: Actor 2

A1 enters taking to God.

A1: Why God? I’ve been faithful! Why must you allow all of this to fall down on me? Why now? Did I not pray enough? Or read your Word enough? I thought I had this all figured out. I thought…

A2 enters.

A2: A1 I just heard. I’m so sorry.

A1: Thanks, but I’m having a really hard time understanding all of this.

A2: I can only imagine. Is there anything I can do?

A1: Can you make this nightmare go away?

A2: I wish I could.

A1: Can you at least explain all of this mess to me?

A2: I wish I could do that also, but I don’t have all the answers.

A1: Answers! I’ve been praying for answers and all I get is silence.

A2: Sometimes silence is all we need.

A1: Yeah, well I need answers. Where’s God when I need Him most?

A2: God is still here. He will never leave you. You know that.

A1: I know what I believe. I know God is here, but these trials and problems are simply overwhelming.

A2: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”

A1: (sarcastic) Wow! You’re sounding real Bible-ish aren’t you!

A2: It’s not my words, its God’s words… from the Bible.

A1: Pure joy? Where do I find joy in a time like this?

A2: From the One who gave you joy to begin with. You must be determined to allow God to work everything out. Faith develops perseverance.

A1: Perseverance? Faith? That’s easy for you to say. You’re not walking in my shoes.

A2: True, but there are many who have been where you are right now, and I know they would be willing to be there for you and help you get through this.

A1: I don’t need anyone right now. I can get through this on my own.

A2: “Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

A1: Wow! You sure are handy with the Word. And now you’re telling me I’m acting immature about all of this.

A2: I’m sorry…, but that’s not what I trying to do at all. I’m just trying…

A1: I know. You’re just trying to be helpful.

A2: You’ve never gone through this before. That’s where the immaturity lies. Many of us are immature when it comes to something like this. Mature simply means developed or advanced and I know you, nor myself included, could ever be ready for something like this. That’s where our immaturity comes from.

A1: So what should I do?

A2: Seek wisdom from God through prayer. Seek wisdom from others who have walked this road before you. God says, you should ask and He will give it to you.

A1: But the pain!

A2: I know it must hurt, but you’ve got to persevere. I’ll help you and be there for you and I know many others will also. You will get through this.

A1: Deep down I know it. Deep down I know what to do.

A2: We’ll do it together. “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.”

A1 & A2 exit.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

Crazy Love

2009-02-02T18:11:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

(Person 1 comes rushing into the room)

Person 1: Person 2 I just did the craziest thing you have ever seen!

Person 2: Really? What is it?

Person 1: Guess.

Person 2: Okay, you ran outside without your coat on?

Person 1: No, although that’s pretty insane though. Think more in line of a radical God thing.

Person 2: Alright, you said the Pledge of Allegiance and kept the words “under God” in it?

Person 1: No, but that’s awesome! Okay, I can’t wait, I’ve got to tell you. …I’m so excited!!

Person 2: What? You’re killing me!!

Person 1: I left a Bible tract in the bathroom stall at Wal-Mart!

Person 2: No way!

Person 1: Yes, way!

Person 2: You’re so brave!

Person 1: I know. But when you are crazy in love with Jesus you will do anything!!

Person 2: I’m with you sister! Just yesterday when I was eating lunch at Mickey D’s, I prayed before I dug in to my quarter pounder!

Person 1: Whoa! You prayed in a restaurant?

Person 2: Yes! I bowed my head and everything. I just thought to myself… I’m going for it!

Person 1: Did anyone see you?

Person 2: Oh yea! This little kid playing in the kid’s area. Looked right to the window at me! He even made a face at me!

Person 1: Ahhh, you’re kidding?

Person 2: Yeah, ya know. Sometimes you just gotta suffer for Jesus. Pick up your cross even if someone makes fun of you.

Person 1: That’s crazy!

Person 2: You better believe that’s crazy!

Person 1: I remember the time when I fell in love with God. How everything in my life seemed to change. That’s exactly how lives should change, if we truly fall in love with God.

Person 2: The problem with some Christians is they need to realize who God is, how "crazy" his love for us is. Because when you're crazy in love with someone, it changes everything in your life.

Person 1: My life changed! I would have never left a tract in the bathroom if I had not been changed like that.

Person 2: You know it!

Person 1: A lot of people live caught up in themselves. It's crazy that they think today is just a normal day to do whatever we want with. Do they live with the idea that perhaps today they might die? Life is all about God and not about us at all.

Person 2: That’s exactly what I was talking about to my small group. God is numero uno!

Person 1: What would that group do without you?

Person 2: Go on.

Person 1: You are so the man!

Person 2: It’s all about me baby! All about me!

Person 1: They’re so lucky.

Person 2: Ya know. The greatest good on this earth is God. Period. I try and tell them do you believe that God is the greatest thing you can experience in the whole world?

Person 1: Hopefully they’ll get it one day!

Person 2: Like-you-and-I!

Person 1: Remember the parable of the soils. People shouldn’t assume they are good soil! Most American churchgoers have thorns that choke any seed that is in them.

Person 2: Listen, a relationship with God simply cannot grow when money, sin, activities, favorite sports teams, addictions, or commitments are piled on top of it.

Person 1: Money! We give, we tithe!

Person 2: When we can!

Person 1: And Sin?

Person 2: Under the rug!

Person 1: Activities? We have no activities!

Person 2: We’re too busy doing everything else to have activities!

Person 1: And sports teams?

Person 2: We’ll, everyone knows you can make an exception every once in awhile.

Person 1: Addictions?

Person 2: Just say no!

Person 1: Commitments?

Person 2: You, my dear, are my only commitment!

Person 1: Jesus clearly states over and over he wants all or nothing.

Person 2: We can not give him leftovers, we can’t give him only what doesn't hurt us or only what doesn't put us at risk. Leftovers are for lunch not for Jesus!

Person 1: You were so brave praying at lunch the other day.

Person 2: (looking humbled) I know.

Person 1: We need to tell the world that when you're crazy in love with someone, it changes everything.

Person 2: God wants us to trust Him. He wants to show us how He works and cares for us. He doesn't call us to be comfortable. He calls us to trust Him so completely that we are unafraid to put ourselves in crazy situations. Just like you Person 1. What if someone had seen you leave that tract? They might have attacked you right there in the bathroom stall!

Person 1: Listen, if that glass had not been there separating you and that little boy… well, I’d hate to think what might have happened.

Person 2: Ya know, Christians should be obsessed with Jesus. They should care more about the Kingdom more than our own lives being shielded from pain or distress. They should live their lives connected with the poor…

Person 1: …we’ve watched the TV commercials!

Person 2: We do things that don't make sense in terms of success or wealth…

Person 1: …we bought the big house because we like to entertain our Christian friends and needed the extra room.

Person 2: We seek humility…

Person 1: …we are so humble.

Person 2: We take joy in loving people. We are known as givers…

Person 1: …I give my time! I go to church on Sunday! And you didn’t even make change in the offering plate last Sunday!

Person 2: I know. Something inside me said, “Person 2, let that quarter go.”

Person 1: We should be committed to live each day as if it is our last before we meet Jesus. Everyone should view a bathroom stall as a battleground!

Person 2: I wish everyone had that kind of crazy love like we have.

Person 1: I wish that to Person 2. I wish that to.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

Numb

2009-01-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

I seek you and long to be held
I feel helpless liken a small child
Embraced because I need to feel you
Feel your strength bounding my weakness

Hold close my empty heart
Fill it with warmth and love
Be my shelter from this storm
Cover me from this rain

I feel numb, dazed, confused
I’m young and lost and scared
Out of body, looking down
Balled up on the floor

Search for me, call for me
Let me hear your voice
Give me something I can feel
Something my sight can enjoy

The Law List

2009-01-16T05:56:00.000-08:00

By Steve Conley

Person 1 enters. Person 2 is already on set watching TV.

Person 1: So what are you watching?

Person 2 is in a daze while watching the TV. They don’t hear Person 1.

Person 1: (Louder) Person 2! What are you watching?

Finally Person 2 hears Person 1.

Person 2: What?

Person 1: What are you watching?

Person 2: The TV silly!

Person 1: Funny. You’re real funny!

Person 2: What do I watch everyday at this time?

Person 1: Captain Kangaroo?

Person 2: Now who’s funny?

Person 1: I know, everyday it’s, When the Earth Moves…

Person 2: As The World Turns!

Person 1: Whatever!

Person 1 walks over and gets a sheet of paper and pen and begins to write.

Person 1: You shall not have no other God’s before me.

Person 2: What? What are you talking about? What are you writing?

Person 1: Just making you a little check list.

Person 2: What kind of check list?

Person 1: (Pointing to the TV) I believe that could be classified as a carved image.

Person 2: Are you making a law list?

Person 1: Sometimes we need people to show us our faults. God has called me to mission. You, Person 2, are not living for God’s approval!

Person 2: Why you! I’ll tell you what I think…

Person 1: You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.

Person 2: Don’t forget you shall not murder!

Person 1: Hold on there. You need to calm down. (Person 1 grabs his Bible) Proverbs 29:22 says, “An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered one commits many sins.”

Person 2: Then you better get another sheet of paper because you are about to do a lot of writing. That is if you will be able to!

Person 1: Hey, don’t get mad at me if you can’t follow the rules.

Person 2: Oh, and you can?

Person 1: Well, I don’t mean to brag but…

Person 2: …where did you get that pen?

Person 1: Pen?

Person 2: Yeah, that pen you’re writing with?

Person 1: Ah, well I don’t know. I mean I don’t remember.

Person 2: You shall not steal!

Person 1: Whoa, are you calling me a thief?

Person 2: I think I better start my own list.

Person 2 grabs the paper and pen from Person 1

Person 1: Well listen, Mr. Bentley can afford another pen. Matter of fact he’s not going to miss that at all with all the money he has.

Person 2: (Writing) You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.

Person 1: Wait! I didn’t covet!

Person 2: That had covet written all over it! (Showing the list to Person 1) Look, do you want to see?

Person 1: (Turning away) I don’t want to see anything!

Person 2: (Picks up the Bible and reads) Matthew 12:22, “Then they brought him a demon-possessed man who was blind…”

Person 1: Demon-possessed?!

Person 2: Hey, don’t get mad at me if you can’t follow the rules.

Person 1: Follow the rules? I’m very good at following. And I don’t think I’m seeing the respect for your man that Paul talked about. You’re an Old and New Testament rule breaker! You’re just not good enough!

Person 2: Are you serious? Mr. straight and narrow! Mr. I walk through the eye of the needle! Mr. I’ve never broke one so I’ve never broke none! Let me tell you. YOU sir, are just not good enough!

Person 1 and Person 2 begin to wrestle over the list, pulling and tugging, until finally Person 1 says…

Person 1: That’s it! I’m getting out of here!

Person 2: Where are you going?

Person 1: To do some good works. I need to balance out my law list!

Person 2: Hold on I’m going with you!

They exit.

(If you use... give credit where credit is due)

What does it take?

2009-01-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

So what does it take to open up?
What does it take to turn your head?
Life is life and never changes
It just goes on whether living or dead.

Legacy’s forge of blood and sweat
To help those in need is memories cry
Storing up treasure in steel and stone
To only help self is how memories die.

When do you decide to get serious?
About the time it’s too late?
Time can be your friend or foe
Can be productive or a waste.

Seek to serve Him with all you have
Open up your heart and head!
The life you change could be your own
Life worth living lives on when dead.

One Day

2008-12-09T17:03:00.000-08:00

One day I will give it all
Today though I just can’t
Yesterday I intended to
That day came and went

Someday I will heed the call
Today is not the time
Yesterday I needed him
But today I feel just fine

Tomorrow I have plans you see
Today is almost gone
Yesterday I felt too weak
And today I feel too strong

One day when the party’s over
Today I party on
Yesterday I can’t remember
That day’s plans are gone

Someday I will turn it over
Today I’m filled with doubt
Yesterday and yesterday
And today has come about

Tomorrow I have all the time
Today is guaranteed
Yesterday I promised God
But today I have no need

Let Me Fall

2008-11-25T07:38:00.000-08:00

I hold the key to the prison door
Forced to stay and never forced at all
The past keeps me in the future begs me out
The world looks in my window and laughs

Barricades of lenders strap me down
The well of opportunity seems empty
Light shines down but the bottom is dark and dry
I could scream for help but no one seeks an empty well

I feel like Moses viewing the promise land
My eyes can see but my hands can’t reach
“This is what it looks like. Can you see it?”
“Yes, I can see it. Can I go there?”
“No.”

Pounding on Plexiglas
Teasing my senses
Looking for cracks or crevice
Small openings for small relief

Bound by a paper chain
Construction paper and Elmer’s glue
I should rip my way out
But the craftsmanship would be lost

I’m praying to unlock the door
Open to my destiny my yes or no
I’ve served my time and the laughter behind me
Just open the door already and let me fall into my future!

My first concert

2008-11-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

My very first concert I went to was when I lived in Memphis Tennessee. Went to see Kansas... opening band was Thin Lizzy. My best friend's big brother went with us. The year? 1974. Wow, 34 years ago... I was 12 years old. Seems like only yesterday... and, I still have the ticket stub!

Cold!

2008-11-18T07:28:00.000-08:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I hate the cold? If I haven't I'm telling you now. I Hate The cold! My body does weird things when I'm cold. Like right now, my right hand is cold and my left hand is not. Weird huh? I hate wearing pants! I know I have lily white legs that people detest seeing and my knees look like hard boiled eggs just beneath the skin. They're not pretty but I love my shorts and if you wear shorts the legs show. I hate wearing long sleeves! I fill like I'm in a straight jacket or wearing a tie! I'm way too uncomfortable! And jackets! Can't stand them but I wear them... because I don't want to be cold!

Now, don't get me wrong. I love snow. But I don't like what you have to go through to get it. I love sledding. But I feel like I'm walking around in a space suit trying to keep warm just to enjoy going down a hill really fast. It's fun and uncomfortable at the same time.

And here's the kicker. I'm bald! Bald people are not meant to enjoy the cold. All the heat goes out of the body through the head. I have nothing to hold it in. I wear a winter hat. It's hard to live in a fleece hat. My ears... they freeze! And it's hard to wear anything on your head and look cool. People with hair can do it... bald people can't! We shop for hours looking for the perfect cool hat, that doesn't make us look weird.

So, I'm cold. And I know it's only going to get colder. I'm counting the days till summer, already! I'm grumpy, I stay sleepy longer when cold and I have to wear socks!!!! Man, I hate socks!!

Ugh, I really don't know what to say...

2008-11-17T05:15:00.000-08:00

Away goes my shorts!

2008-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

So I'm sitting here at my kitchen table looking out the back door at the yucky rainy clouds rolling by. Ever so often I can see a glimpse of beautiful blue peeking through the blanketed grey that's floating by. It makes me long for summer again which seems so far away. So can you tell I'm not a fall guy? Sure, I love the colors of the changing leaves but that only lasts a short time and then we see the effects of hibernation. The weather begins to show itself and starts to turn really yucky, gloomy and unfriendly. Winter is just around the corner and I just want to scream! Today I plan on unpacking my winter clothes and packing up my summer stuff. I'm going to download TAPS from itunes and play as I do so. Away goes my shorts, my flip flops and out comes the long sleeves and socks! Oh socks how I hate thee! So bare with me as I shift from happy summer guy to unhappy winter guy. Overlook my smile turned upside down and say a prayer for me when you feel that brisk wind come rushing by.

I think every church in America...

2008-11-14T10:17:00.000-08:00

... should do this series.

.

My 80's fix!

2008-11-13T11:08:00.000-08:00

Just got to say it! I'm a huge fan of the 80's and very proud of it. I learned life in the 80's and everything just seemed really good. Granted the 80's are gone along with the stupid things I did, and that was a lot. HA! But there is one thing that stands strong to this day... the music! It was all good. The good stuff AND the bad stuff... was still good, if that makes sense. I went to many, many concerts... The Police, Heart, Little Feat, Kansas, Thin Lizzy, John Cougar Mellencamp, Richard Marx, Knight Ranger, Power Station, Quiet Riot, Jimmy Buffet just to name a few. Oh yeah, I could name more! Being a musician I made it a point to go to every concert that I could, because it was all good!

So, I'm sitting here working and my mind starts to drift back to the 80's, to the music, and I start to feel like I need a fix or something. I'm needing some 80's baby! I start drifting through my past and the concerts I went to and land on one particular one. One band, one song. Some friend and I went to see Foreigner in Florence Alabama. It was wild! This one song that I loved stands out in my mind. It was bassy, had a driving beat and just the right amount of synthesiser. That was yesterday!

So, what is the song or band from the 80's that really floats your boat? Meanwhile, click and enjoy.

Ridgepoint Church Fall Picnic

2008-11-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

Ridgepoint Church Picnic from Steve Conley on Vimeo.

Ridgepoint TV Commercial

2008-11-05T21:28:00.000-08:00

Coming to a television near you. New TV commercial for Ridgepoint Church.

It is worth it!

2008-11-04T06:16:00.000-08:00

So a lot of times I use this blog to vent, to get things off my chest. To those of you who don't know me I'm really not this grumpy person you may think I am. Anyway, I want to use this blog in a different way today. I'm actually going to be upbeat for a change.

Here lately I've been feeling really tired. My body is tired, my brain is tired and the only thing that looks good is my couch! Lately I've been asking the question "is what I do (for God) really worth all the effort?" I mean, I work a full time job eight hours a day as a Quality Manager. It's the job that pays the bills at home. My "love" job is being a Children's Pastor, but I only the opertunity to serve bi-vocational. The hours are long as well doing the CP job. Actually, a couple or more hours a day. That job pays squat, but that's understandable. Not a lot of churches can pay a full time children's pastor. Still, I work long hours preparing for Sunday's and anything else that happens throughout the week (meetings, counseling, etc.).

As I said, I sometimes wonder is it all worth it? I am really tired!

So to answer my question... YES!

Let me give you a couple of examples of what happened to me. And realize, when you're tired, and down, and wondering... God will give you an answer, a pick-me-up.

Last Sunday night we had a baptismal service at our church. There were several being baptised including one little girl. At our baptismal services we do a testimony video that is shown before they are baptised. So this little girl, Ashley, is up by the baptismal pool along with our Sr. Pastor and we begin to watch her video. The video is of her telling how she gave her heart to Jesus, how her family played a big part in that and also her church. At the very end of the video... from out of nowhere she says, "and I think Pastor Steve is cool!" (the end).

Man, I about lost it! I started boohooing (sp?)! Tears just gushing down my face. Wow, that was a huge unexpected comment. That is one of those times when you know what you do is worth it!

Last night I was invited to perform at an Upward football awards night/celebration. I was nervous! Truthfully, it has been almost a year since I've done any clowning or performing... and I was rusty!! But, truthfully as well, I needed the money, so I agreed.

At the end of the show I was expected to share the gospel. Not a hard thing for me to do... for children. But, this event is not just children, it's for children and adults! So, I'm nervous with that as well. The show begins and I must give God the glory... I only had one mess up, everything else went smoothly and the crowd loved it (I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging, sorry, I'm not). Then, sharing the gospel... that went great as well!!! When I did the invitation... (it's the one where a prayer is said and they are asked to raise their hand)... When I asked those who prayed to receive Christ to raise their hand I was amazed! There were at least 20, possibly more who raised their hand (there was a big crowd there, probably 300). Children raised their hand, adults raised their hand and even an elderly gentleman sitting near the front raised his hand. I was floored! Did I cry? Almost, it was all I could do on stage to keep it in! That is one of those times when you know what you do is worth it!

So today I'm really sore form performing! When I perform solo I'm really physical and big on movement, so I'm really, really sore! But, I feel really good!!! Yes, I'm still tired and I long for the day when I can serve God full time in a church setting but for now God gave me the reassurance and pick-me-up I needed and assured me that it is worth it.

The redistribution experiment

2008-10-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

(From a forwarded email)

In a local restaurant my server had on a "Obama 08″ tie, again I laughed as he had given away his political preference-just imagine the coincidence.

When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama redistribution of wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need-the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight.

I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful.

At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even though the actual recipient deserved money more.

I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application.

Joe doesn't like the tough questions.

2008-10-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

After this interview the Obama campaign cried foul. This was off limits. No way is it fair to ask these kinds of questions of this campaign. They promptly canceled an interview that was scheduled for Jill Biden, Joe’s wife and wrote a letter of outrage to the station manager.

Source: http://www.rightpundits.com/?p=2271

Is children’s ministry even relevant anymore?

2008-10-20T08:48:00.000-07:00

I’ve been struggling how I could sit down and write something that is very near and dear to me without hurting feelings or stepping on toes and in fact without losing friends. That is if friends read this blog. One thing that I have settled on is that I can’t keep it inside any longer and whether anyone reads this or not at least I’ve thrown it out there and at least I feel better by doing it.

The other thing that I’ve been struggling with is where do I begin? How do I start writing what I want to say? I could do this in a sentence or two but it might not make much sense. So I’ve settled with starting things off with a question and then letting God take it where he wants it to go.

So I’m wondering if children’s ministry is even relevant anymore. And if it’s not, how did we get off track? Where did this train derail? I know there may be some leaders in children’s ministry who might read this and they may be asking the same question. I guess my question is geared more to the parents. So parents, is children’s ministry even relevant to you any more?

I know I can’t be the only children’s pastor asking this question. I know I can’t be the only one who wants to stand up and scream to the parents WAKE UP!

Parents, let me ask you this. How important is your child’s baseball or football or soccer game? How about cheerleading or gymnastics or dance? Those things are very important aren’t they? I know they are because you never miss them. You never miss a practice or game. You’re never late and you are always willing to help in any way you can, right? Of course I’m right. You prove it by your actions.

And let me ask you this. How much time do you spend with your child practicing on those things? Dads, do you get out and run plays with your kids? Moms, do you practice with your daughters while their working on their dance moves? How much time do you spend each night helping your children with their home work?

Now let me ask you this. How important is the spiritual development of your child? How important is it to be at church and on time? How important is it to have family devotionals at night with your children? Do you really know what they’ve been learning in Sunday school or children’s church? Do you really care? If I had to guess I would say a big flat out NO! You prove it by your actions.

You know, when you’re asked to help with your children extra curricular activities you jump at the chance. You’re salivating at the chance to be a part of the action. But when you’re asked to help teach a Sunday school class or help in children’s church you run away like the Creature from the Black Lagoon has jumped out and is attempting to drag you down to the deepest pits of hell. You freak out and give such lame excuses about how “you don’t have time” or “your knowledge is limited” or, here’s my favorite, “I just don’t feel called to work with children.” What? Were you called to have children?

So, can you tell I’m mad yet? Yep, I’m freakin’ mad!!

Oh, and parents, do you choose a church based on what kind of children’s ministry they have? What they do? What and how do they teach? When you look for a church do you set in the class room and try it out yourself to see how your child reacts and how the other children react as well? Heck no you don’t! You base everything on your feelings and your feelings alone. You base it on how well you like the preacher or the music or the way you were greeted when you walked in the door. What ever makes YOU feel good, right? Very rarely do you actually choose a church based on their children’s ministry. The children’s ministry is just a sidebar. It doesn’t really matter does it? As long as they have a place to go so the baby sitting can take place and you can get your warm and fuzzy for an hour.

Oh, and you have a fit over the public schools, the teachers and anything else that directly affects your children. You will seek out the best schools. Even uproot from where you live so you can put your children in a great school but you don’t even care about their spiritual education… do you? Ever uprooted to get closer to a great church because they had a great children’s ministry? Why not?

So…, what your actions say is that your child’s extra circular activities and education is more important than their spiritual activities and spiritual education. And your church social life is more important then theirs. And your hour at church is more important than theirs. And on and on the story goes.

In case you wondered I’m the children’s pastor at Ridgepoint church. Ridgepoint is a church plant on Oak Ridge Tennessee. We are doing more with children’s ministry than most churches that has been around for a hundred years. We are relevant, cutting edge, family driven and we still go through the same crap every other church and every other children’s ministry goes through.

But, I keep pluggin’ away. I keep trying and I keep praying. I pray that parents will one day wake up and open their eyes to see how important their children’s spiritual lives are. We only have a short time with them and then their gone. Our actions teach a lot. So what are we teaching? What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

By the way, I’m not saying sports or any other children’s activity is not important. They are and the kids have a good time. But what is more important? The ball game you have to go to on Sunday or church? What does that teach?

So, is children’s ministry even relevant anymore? I’ll let you decide that one.

Books I've read lately.

2008-10-17T06:22:00.000-07:00

Here a small list of some books I've read lately.

Eat Mor Chikin - S. Truett Cathy
How did you do it Truett? - S. Truett Cathy
Church is a Team Sport - Jim Putnam
90 Minutes in Heaven - Don Piper
The Shack - William P. Young

Currently reading: The Imagineering Way - The Imagineers

Rivers and Rainbows

2008-10-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

Rivers and rainbows
Beginnings and ends
Thrashing at the enemy
Dinner with friends

Painful and healing
Searching and lost
Fakeness of heart
Counting the cost

Prison and freedom
Heaven and hell
Some never turn
Some never will

Good and evil
Rich and poor
Picking up pieces
Pounding the floor

Memories and vision
Life and then death
Tomorrow is yesterday
First and last breath

Go get ya some ugly shoes!

2008-09-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

Just something to pass on. I'm a shoe fan. The wilder the better. Several weeks ago my wife and I are in Pigeon Forge Tennessee. We are doing a bit of window shopping at Tanger Outlet Mall. Kimberly and my daughter are in some girly shop while AJ, my son, and I are outside looking cool. I just happen to look over and what do I see but some really beautiful but ugly shoes. I become drawn to them like a moth to a flame. They are sitting on an outdoor display at the Ecco store. I make my way over and pick them up to check them out. Mmmm... Ecco's 2nd Nature Slip on's,... pretty lite... look comfortable... what's the price? Mmmmm... marked down from $100 bucks to $34.99!! Time to try them on! Long story short... I bought em! So now I have these great shoes that my wife hates with a passion because they are so ugly, but I think they are great! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I would not say they are as good as my Toms... but it's a close second. So, if you are ever in Pigeon Forge Tennessee... go get ya some ugly shoes!

Coke and peanuts

2008-09-25T05:26:00.000-07:00

When I was young, say around 3rd grade or so, I was in the Y-Indian guides. Today it is known as the Adventure Guides. While in the Guides we went to camp. Camp was of course an outdoor adventure in which we stayed in small cabins and did really cool outdoorsy things throughout the day. We would also meet around a huge campfire at night and do things that indians would do. I remember one day we were at the snack shop and one of the dads had a Coke and a small bag of peanuts. He began to pour the peanuts into the Coke and drink/eat the peanuts. I asked him what he was doing? He told me this... This is what the indians use to do. So naturally, I tried it... and it was pretty good! After all the indians use to eat their peanuts bathed in a Coke, right? How cool!!! I actually believed this for several years until one day when the light came on. Anyway, this is your mission for today. Go by a Coke and a small bag of peanuts. Pour the peanuts into the Coke and enjoy. If anyone asks you what you are doing? Of course, by all means, tell them the indians use to do it.

Coke and peanuts

Joe Biden

2008-09-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

Joe Biden puts the "I" in what?

Today I continue to struggle.

2008-09-09T05:42:00.000-07:00

Today I continue to struggle. Sometimes I find myself thinking about different issues. I find myself wanting to scream how I feel about something without stepping over the line and without offending someone. I mean after all a minister has to walk a fine line, right? Well maybe, but maybe not.

Anyway, I'm sitting here struggling with the thought of abortion, Democrats and Christians. My thoughts often lean to this question, "If I'm a Christian, I'm against abortion. But if I'm a Democrat I'm for abortion?" Or should I say I'm for a woman's right to choose. There, that sounds better and takes all personal responsibility away from me, right?

Simply put, how can you be a Democrat and a Christian?

Now, don't get mad or upset. I'm just asking the question. As I said, I'm struggling.

But it seems to me that if I'm walking into the voting booth and pushng the button for a Democratic candidate, I'm also pushing the button for continued abortion. A woman's right to choose. So how does one separate their spiritual beliefs? Do they close their eyes? Turn their head? Turn their Christian beliefs off for a few seconds? Play the grace card and ask for forgivness?

"Since 1992, the Democratic party has called for abortion to be "safe, legal and rare" — namely, keeping it legal by rejecting laws that allow governmental interference in abortion decisions, and reducing the number of abortions by promoting both knowledge of reproduction and contraception, and incentives for adoption." (From Wikipedia)

Wait. Legal and rare? So making something legal will eventually make it rare? Perhaps we should make drug use (of all kinds) legal and then that would make it rare. Or prostitution, or pedophilia or fill in the blank with anything that is illegal! That's probably one of the most craziest statements I have ever read. Legal and rare. For some reason that sounds like an oxymoron.

And from what I've seen it is the Republicans who are the ones trying their best to promote knowledge about the incentives for adoption and other life incentives. Not the Democrats.

I know we don't all agree with everything our parties represent, but shouldn't my Christian beliefs come first in making every decision I make? So what is more important? Change or life? Not to drill in Alaska or life? Save the red eared, red toed owl or life? Government sponsered healthcare for me or life for someone who may never see life at all? Should I go on?

If God cared so much about you to send his son to die that you may have life... well, I would think life is a pretty importnat thing. More important than change or drilling, owls and trees and you paying for my healthcare.

So, I struggle with the question. Can you be a Democrat and be a Christian? Don't get mad, take a deep breath, and calm down. I'm just asking.

Be our guest

2008-08-28T04:44:00.000-07:00

My daughter and I are in Chik-fil-A yesterday. While standing in line I'm watching the employees behind the counter and just kind of day dreaming. That is until something caught my attention. It made my ears perk up like a cat to a mouse. The lady behind the counter said, "May I help the next guest please?" There is was! I'm in Disney all over again! It wasn't, "may I help someone," or "Who's next?," or "Next costumer please." It was guest. They consider me a guest! I'm not a customer or visitor I'm their guest.

One of the best things a leader can do is read the books, "Inside the Magic Kingdom" by Tom Connellan, and "Be Our Guest" by The Disney Institute, These two books have been more of a valuable resource than any others. As a matter of fact I am leading my Children's Ministry Team through these two books right now. My team consists of the Nursery Director, Preschool Director, K-5th Small Group Director, Drama Coach, and Reactor Factor Worship Coach. I meet with the team on the first Sunday of every month. One thing I told my team is that we need to be on the same page as far as vision and direction. So the first thing(s) we are doing is going over these two books. We read four chapters a month and then I send them a series of questions about some things that really caught my eye while reading the four chapters. At our meetings we discuss the questions.

So what do you call the people who visit your church? Are they visitors? Or guests? There is a difference.

Clean by example

2008-08-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

Well, this is probably going to make me unpopular with all the pastors out there, but here it goes. I believe we, as pastors, should clean the restrooms of the church. Yep, I said it! We should clean the restrooms.

I believe this for two reasons. Reason number one is that we teach our flock how we should be humble. About how the first should be last. How we must be a servant to all and how pride is a dangerous thing. I believe we should set the standard. We should clean the toilets of the church. We say we should lead by example. Do we?

Reason number two. Pastors sometimes get on their high horse. Without realizing it they get the attitude that they are above doing manual (stinky) labor around the church. Cleaning the restroom will always be a constant reminder how we should stay humble, how the high horse should be a low as the toilet seat, how we should never be prideful and think we are better than anyone else.

So, there you have it. It’s just what I think. I was cleaning the men’s restroom here at work today. We do this in shifts. One week is my week; the next is someone else’s. So it just hit me. Like it or not, it’s a good idea! Just being honest.

This should help you out.

Comments?

Killing Cockroaches by Tony Morgan

2008-08-06T06:11:00.000-07:00

So Tony Morgan is coming out with a new book, Killing Cockroaches. I like reading his blog so I will probably like reading the book. Here's a youtube vid, a teaser of sorts that I enjoyed... but, little things amuse me. You might be amused as well.

Please pray for my wife

2008-08-05T04:28:00.000-07:00

Just asking everyone to say a short prayer for my my wife, Kimberly. She's been having a rough way to go at work. Her boss, Donna (pray for her also), is very hateful and mean to her and others in the office. It's just really hard for Kimberly right now... she can't quit, she/we need this job. So please pray for her when you read this. Thank you.

Ridgepoint Church car wash

2008-08-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

We had a free car wash this past Saturday in Oak Ridge. It was a blast, had a great time... man, I love these people! I serve with a bunch of crazies!

Pager... cell phone... what's the difference?

2008-07-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

So here's an idea. A lot of churches are going to a pager system for their nursery and preschool ministry. If there's a problem the parent is notified through a pager that is given to them when they register their child. I love the idea but the fact of the matter is that it can be very expensive. Exactly how many pager would you need? How much would that cost?

Here's my idea. Just about 99.9% of the people that come into your church has a cell phone. Heck, people will do with food and necessities before they will go without a cell phone. What you would do is while at check-in get their cell phone number, ask them to put their phone on vibrate, and let them know that if they are needed you will notify they by way of a text message. You can even be specific in your message to the parent... "Child is crying. Please come to nursery." "Child is beating up teacher. Please come to nursery." You get my drift.

So, there you have it. Stop spending all kinds of money on those paging systems. You have a free paging system right in you hands... well, not free, but you know what I mean. Most everyone have unlimited text messaging.

This is a something I plan on implementing at my church (Ridgepoint Church) once we move to the theater. I'd like to hear your thoughts. Comments?

This is the Truth

2008-07-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

The goal... to be the monkey!

2008-07-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

I find myself praying often throughout the day for our move to the theater. I know that we are about to step into uncharted territory. None of us has ever had any experience with a church that meets in a theater. Everything we do is completely by the hand of God. And you know, I love it!

We will arrive at the theater at 7:00 on Sunday morning to set up. For some reason I’m excited about this. Lord knows I hate to get up early, but I know this is going to be a fun time. I serve with a lot of crazies! One thing I’m excited about is Reactor Factor at 9am. I’m looking forward to bringing to life a lot of my old characters. I haven’t been able to do this in awhile but now we have a good, solid crew helping with this ministry. So, that gives me time to bring out some of those characters (Wilford, the old man, Professor Messitup, the rock star, Flo and others).

Also looking forward to adding a large group worship time for our preschool. Our Prek’s will meet in small groups for about 15 minutes; leave for large group, 20 minutes, then back to small group. My plans during large group are to have a main character(s) to lead. I want the set to be sort of a Blues Clues or Pee Wee’s Playhouse set. There will also be visitors who visit every other week. So my main focus now is creating the set for this. The hard thing about all of this is that it has to be portable. But, everything does so that’s nothing new.

Later, I look forward to creating small groups for our k-5th grade kids during worship. I don’t think I can do this until we are able to rent another theater. Right now we have one theater and one hallway. But, I don’t think it will take very long for us to grow enough so we can financially be able to do that. I just feel it!

So, if you live in this area, let me take this time to invite you to Ridgepoint Church. This is and will be awesome! My goal is to create the best and most exciting children’s ministry in the area, period! I want kids to talk about what goes on at Ridgepoint all week long. My vision is to be infectious. I want our children’s ministry to be the monkey!!! (see the movie Outbreak)

Can a church ask for too much?

2008-07-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

For fun I've been keeping track of this church and their pursuit of finding a children's pastor. They have been searching since February. As you can see below in the job description their not looking for a children's pastor, their looking for God himself. Good grief, can a church ask for too much? Comments?

POSITION TITLE: CHILDREN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR
LOCATION: EASTERN UNITED STATES
SALARY RANGE: COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE
JOB DESCRIPTION / DUTIES:
Direct leadership of Children's Ministry (K - 5th grade with 600 children and volunteers)
252 Basics curriculum application and implementation
Oversight of all weekend programming for children's ministry
Development and growth of children's ministry
Provide organizational structure for a children's ministry (K-5th)
Strategic planning and direction for the entire children's ministry (birth-5th grade) in the areas of recruitment, training & development, and execution
Building/maintaining children's coaching/small group structure
Management, development, and oversight of paid staff (full-time Ministry Assistant, Family Ministry Director, Preschool Director) and ministry volunteers (small group leaders, coaches, and all weekend teams - 100+ weekend volunteers)
Planning and coordination of Children's Ministry Camp (2nd-5th grade)
Serve on the Senior Team Management: 1) Children's Ministry representative on the Senior Team; 2) Staff evaluations/adherence to the employee handbook; 3) Strategic thought on the direction of the church and continued implementation of the vision and values; 4) Continued focus on Children's Ministry strategy for discipleship
*Raises are based upon evaluation by Executive Pastor of the following areas - Provided in 6 month and 12 month reviews.
Execution and attainment of yearly plans/goals
Execution and attainment of church goals
Execution of staff development/morale
Execution of strategic discipleship plan
Health of overall children's ministry
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:
At least 2 years experience leading in a children's ministry with at least 150 children
At least 2 years pastoral staff experience in a church of 1000+ in weekly attendance
At least 2 years of successful management of 40+ volunteers
At least 2 years experience overseeing effective 252 Basics Children's Ministry
At least 1 year experience managing 1 or more paid staff
A strong desire to minister to children and their families
Spiritual gifts of teaching, administration, and exhortation
Entrepreneurial leadership
ORGANIZATION!!!
Bachelors degree
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:
5+ years experience overseeing and managing a children's ministry with at least 400 children
At least 5 years pastoral staff experience at a church of 3000+
Theological degree - graduate level
License and Ordination
Please make sure you meet all requirements/qualifications. If you do, immediately click the APPLY button at the top of the page.

One Stop Shopping

2008-07-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

So one thing I’ve always had problems with is how volunteers keep up with the rotation schedule. If you email the schedule they’ll either delete it, or say they never received it, or just forget about ever having it. If you post it in the bulletin it ends up in the floorboard of the car then in the trash can at the car wash. (That’s one reason why we don’t print bulletins.) If you print it and place it on the welcome table, they never pick one up. So what do you do?

Well I’ve created a blog at wordpress.com and posted all of our children’s ministry rotation schedules. I can even use this for announcements and different things such as that. When one rotation is complete I just go in and edit the schedule and change it as needed.

With this free site (and Blogger) online it’s a one stop shopping experience and our volunteers can go to this site anytime and check their rotation. I understand churches have websites they maintain and could post these things on the site. But, the blog site is simple to maintain, I can do it and not have to go through some difficult process of changing it or getting someone else to change it for me. The blog site is very simple to use. Period.

So if you ever want to do something like this give it a try. I think you will find it very useful.

Weigh In (July 21)

2008-07-22T07:10:00.000-07:00

OK, I've just been a little busy. So I haven't had time to weigh in. I
did last night though and it was... 194.3# Not bad for me I guess. I've
not been very diligent about the whole thing but I'm slowly dropping.

My soapbox. (I know, here we go again)

2008-07-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I know this is a blogger no-no but I guess I need to give some sort of reply to Dr. Dittman. Fist off someone must have stumbled into this site and sent you a link to the blog. No one reads my blog intentionally, well, maybe my mom and she wouldn’t even admit it if you asked her. Anyway, nice to see someone out there reading even though it’s probably a one time thing.

Just wanted to say real quickly that I’m not against the LBF program. It’s wonderful that Dr. Falwell set this up for “senior” pastors. And I do mean that! Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!

My complaint is that it is for “senior” pastors only. It’s not fair (I know I sound like a five year old)! It dumb downs the role of every other called pastoral position in the church. It’s not open for a “children’s” pastor, “youth” pastor, or any other pastoral role. Only senior pastor. I’ll say it again, it’s not fair.

I think I can look back at my ordination service and never see, find, or whatever, any mention of the reference to “children’s” pastor. Everything that was said, preached or written was only referenced to… pastor. In fact, I’ll have to get my ordationation certificate down from the closet and see if there is any reference on there.

Bottom line is, I am a pastor. Hold on; let me scream this to the world… I AM A PASTOR!!!! Stop treating me like the black sheep of the family just because I don’t carry the title of “SENIOR!”

When Dr. Falwell set the LBF program up I know he had fabulous intentions. Heck, there were probably very, very few children’s pastor’s back then. The thing is, now, there are multiple pastors in the church.

So, I love the program. It’s great that 1400 pastors have the opportunity for the LBF and other scholarships. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. I am thankful something is available for them.

But, if you’re not a fulltime student… you’re out of the picture as far as scholarships go. And, if you’re not a “senior” pastor… the door is closed there also.

As for the baby sitters in the world, children’s pastors… bi-vocational children’s pastors. Well, were stuck with gold fish and fruit punch. And I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Where's my soapbox?

2008-07-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

Just got off the phone with Liberty Baptist Fellowship (LBF). LBF is a scholarship program offered through/at Liberty University. I just recently applied to LU to take some online classes (which cost me 50 bucks just to do the application!). Through LU online I could take everything I need to be able to finish my degree. Ok, back to LBF. If your church gives to the LBF scholarship fund your pastor can take classes at LU for free! Sounds good, right?

That’s what I thought, so I called them to get my application for the scholarship. This is going to be wonderful. I can now go back to school and finish my degree! It’s what EVERY competitive church wants! How lucky I will be.

So I called and spoke to an actual live person.
“Yes, hello, I would to see about getting an application for the LBU scholarship.” I told him.
“OK, does your church give to the program?” He asked.
“Yes sir. My church is, ********.” I said.
“OK Steve, I see your church listed right here and your church is up-to-date.” He told me.
“Great!” I said.
He then asked me this question.
“Steve, are you the pastor?”
“Well, I’m a pastor… the children’s pastor.” I humbly told him.
“Are you fulltime?” He asked.
“Ah, no sir, I’m bi-vocational.” I said. I could see and hear where this was going.
“Steve, you would only be eligible for the scholarship if you where the fulltime Senior Pastor or Bi-vocational Senior Pastor. You could only apply if you where a fulltime children’s pastor.” He said.
“Oh, OK. Well, thank you then.” I said.
“Goodbye.”
*Click!*

Wow, there you have it. I was a little crushed and angry at the same time. So, let me get this straight in my pea brained head. If I’m a “senior” bi-vocational pastor I can apply for the scholarship!?!?! But, if I’m a bi-vocational “children’s” pastor I’m not eligible???

Wait! I thought God called me to be a “PASTOR” Period!!! And then through him/God he has placed in my heart to shepherd the children. The most important folk of the church!

So, I guess Liberty University puts a class on pastors? You’re important enough to be eligible to receive a scholarship if you are a senior pastor. But you’re not important enough if you are a “children’s” pastor. “You only work with kids! How can that be important?”

Am I missing something here?

Again, just goes to show you how some view the role, a God given role, of a children’s pastor. Heck, I was even in one church where some leaders of the church didn’t even consider a children’s pastor a pastor at all??? What? Yeah, I know… I left!

Anyway, I can’t afford to go back to school right now, period. I asked someone in the administrator’s office how much a class was going to cost me. They said $250.00 per credit hour. So that would mean I would be paying $750.00 per semester per class. And that’s not counting books and tech fees. We’re probably looking at $1,000.00 easy.

I asked, OK, how can I pay for that?
“We’ll sir, you can pay that by credit card or we can divide that into 4 payments. You can also apply for a pell grant.” He told me.
“I make too much money to apply for a pell grant.” I said.
“We’ll you can apply for some different scholarships it you are fulltime…”
I interrupted. “I can’t go fulltime. I have a fulltime job that takes care of my fulltime family.” I said.
Needless to say I ended the call.

It seems only possible that I quit my fulltime job and make my church job fulltime. I couldn’t have any other job, just the church job because they would then consider my part-time job my fulltime job (I hope you understand what I just wrote). Then I could finish school and have my degree. Then I could get a job being a fulltime children’s pastor, with my degree, and making less than what I make now.

Wait, I thought the whole purpose of getting a degree is to get a job that pays more? Not so in children’s ministry. We are at the bottom of the barrel!

Oh, I could go on and on and on but I getting dizzy on this box.

Thanks America! Thanks Liberty University! Thanks wonderful world of education for allowing me NOT to be able to get my pretty piece of paper on the wall.

I’m glad for those who can do it. I just can’t right now. I’m done. I’m tired. Good night Alice.

Just have to say it.

2008-07-17T05:12:00.000-07:00

It's just in the air! It's like an invisible fog that has creeped in without your knowledge. You breath it in without knowig you have been exposed until it has consumed every inch of your body. With that feeling you can't sleep at night and wake up every morning with the ignition of the space shuttle.

Just have to say it over and over again just how excited I am about Ridgepoint Church. God is absolutely doing some amazing things in this church! We are about to embark on a very exciting journey.

August 24, we will have our first Sunday in Tinseltown theater in Oak Ridge. There is just something about the atmosphere of a movie theater. Can't wait to see what and how God is going to move in our first Sunday there. I have a feeling that God is just about to explode this church!

August 2nd, free car wash at TN Bank in Oak Ridge. Come join us, join in, get your car washed!

I'm sooooooo excited!

Name change

2008-07-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

For those of you out there who know anything about New Hope Fellowship this is for you. We wanted to let everyone know that we will be changing our name from New Hope Fellowship to Ridgepoint Church.

Here is the reason. #1 There are several Newhope's around this area, and the new name will separate us. #2 The name enables us to better identify with the people in our location. We are waiting on the new logo. This is truly an exciting time in the life of our church. Only four more Sunday's until the move to the theater!

Jelly Telly

2008-07-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

Phil Vischer has just posted the JellyTelly demo video (jellytelly.tv).

Phil is great! I've been wondering how things would go for him and where God would lead him in his next adventure after the unfortunate loss of Big Idea Productions (VeggieTales).

This great stuff! Check it out and subscribe!

Venezuela mission trip video

2008-07-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

Our church, New Hope Fellowship, teamed up with several churches in the area for a mission trip to Venezuela. The photo at the end is Pastor Robert Melton of New Hope, Darwin of Cabemas Church in Venezuela, Chris Bumbalough of Allen Baptist Church, Ky. and Pastor Robbie Leach of Beech Park Baptist.

Excited!

2008-07-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

Excited about the things taking place in the next few weeks. Our church, New Hope Fellowship, will be having a free car wash (location TBA) on August 2nd. I believe it will be at one of the banks on the Parkway. On August 13th we will have a block party at the Civic Center. All this in Oak Ridge. Last year we had some players from the University of Tennessee men's basketball team come by and sign autographs. We will do our best to have that again this year. These two events are happening to promote our move to the Tinseltown Theater on August 24th. We are expecting a good crowd. Everyone is soooo excited about the move. The whole atmosphere is going to change. It's going to be really, really cool! We... are... excited!

Oh, and by the way. We had a record crowd of 47 at Reactor Factor last Sunday, our family production. Our folks are loving this! This ministry is going to boom once we get into the theater. Can't wait!!

Thursday date night

2008-07-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

Each Thursday night is considered date night for Kimberly and I. There are some Thursday's we don't get to keep that date night commitment but most weeks we're able. Just for fun we usually try a visit a new restaurant each Thursday. I don't mean new as in newly built, I mean new as in we have never been there before. Anyway tonight we went to Puleo's Grill. I'd have to say it wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. The food was ok but it didn't knock my socks off, yea know? The menu was boring! Anyway, That will be our first and last time there, it just didn't crank our tractor. But hey, that's why we visit someplace new every time we have our date night. We are looking for that little out of the way place that is off the chart! Any suggestions?

Uncensored rants from Children's Ministry leaders

2008-07-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

As the website says, "Some of it is frustration. Some of it is passion. All of it is real." The owner of this site asked, and wanted complete honesty... he got it. Some of these folks really lay it all down. You should really read this.

Check it out HERE.

Missed Opportunity

2008-07-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

Thinking of tomorrow’s be
When life and limb return to ground
Will my future remember me,
Have I let my future down?

Looking back at wasted spaces
Better times, missed opportunity
Empty hearts bore empty places
Fade the tracks of legacy

Eyes well up as the future slows
Growing up retracts his fame
Looking back at the picture show
Frame by frame by frame

Wondering how the morrows be
When life and soul are heaven bound
Will son’s and daughters remember me,
Have I let my future down?

Weigh In (July 06)

2008-07-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well, there it is. I've lost two pounds. That's pretty good considering that I didn't do well this weekend at all. I dove into the funnel cakes at the park. Probably ate a whole one by myself. Didn't really do too good Saturday either. And today, Sunday, after church we went to Mr. Gatti's. It's kind of what we do after church. A bunch of us go and dig into the pizza buffet. You know how I am about buffets... not good. Anyway, I'm happy! I'll take that two pound loss and run with it. Well, maybe not run, probably just walk.

Weight: 198.2#
No measurements this week. Going to wait till next week for that.

Blackberry pickin

2008-07-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

Did some blackberry pickin today. Can't wait for the cobbler! Lip smacking good! Can I just ask one question? God, why did you make Yellow Jackets!!!

Sunday busy Sunday (to the tune of U2's Sunday bloody Sunday)

2008-07-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

Yep this Sunday will be a busy one. Robert, our Sr. Pastor, is going with a group from our church to Venezuela. That means that half of the crew that holds down the fort on Sunday will be gone. It's OK though. I'm excited about what God is going to do through our mission team.

So the busyness of it all will be...
- Half of our setup crew will be gone on the mission trip. Double duty on setup.
- Half of our drama team is going on the mission trip. So I will be doing drama duty for Reactor Factor (family production).
- Our drummer is going on the mission trip. So I will be playing drums.
- Robert will be gone on the mission trip. So I will be preaching.
- Same with tare down crew, mission trip. Double duty again.
- Sunday evening. Meeting with our preschool teams. Getting prepared for our move to the theater.

Hey, it's gonna be a blast and I wouldn't miss it! Oh... keep our mission team in your prayers, please!

July 4th

2008-07-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to getting down to the Kingston City Park this forth of July. The boat races should be fun to watch being that I haven’t seen that in a long time. Always love the car show and the bands. Oh yeah, can’t wait to see my friend John Pryor play. I think he’s on stage at or around 5:30pm. Just flat out look forward to seeing friends that I haven’t seen for awhile. Everybody and their dog turns out for the fireworks show. And yeah, I know I’m on a diet, but if I see a funnel cake stand I’m all over it! Sorry, but it has to be done!

Successful people without a college degree (P2)

2008-07-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I didn't see it come through. The widget that is. Anyway, just check out this link and this link.

Successful people without a college degree

2008-07-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Everyone who knows me knows how I feel about college degree's and the church. I don't believe they mix. Don't get me wrong. I think having your degree is a great thing but churches basing who they will hire based on if they have a degree or not, well, I personally think that is wrong. I just believe it came about trying to keep up with the Joneses. Churches should hire based on the heart and experience. Again, my opinion. And fyi, I'm currently pursuing my degree. I've been going five years now and it will probably be five more years before I'm finished. That's OK though, I have a family to support. Anyway, I've had bad experiences with church who are just full of themselves and the degree thing. Ask me and I'll tell you sometime. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, here's something I found interesting.

Check out RateItAll

Eat Mor chikin

2008-07-01T04:55:00.000-07:00

Lannny Donoho and Jon Williams. Really funny!

So long vacation

2008-06-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

Well, the pictures pretty much say it all. Yes vacation was awesome! You know the old saying, it just wasn't long enough. We hit the buffets twice while we were there. It would have been more but have you priced the buffets at the beach lately? Wow, expensive! So, when I went with the buffets I got my money's worth... and then some! Spent most of the days spread out under the umbrella and playing with the kids in the ocean. My younguns ate up the beach and the sun screen flowed like water. Luckily I didn't get burnt, none of us did. Usually my head fries but not this time. I played it smart, very smart. Anyway, good to be home but wow, if I had the opportunity, and the money, to stay I could have ate crab legs until the sea cows came home.

Why my church is awesome!

2008-06-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

1. Got up this morning (Sunday) and put on some shorts, shirt and my Toms. No tie!
2. Set-up crew prays together before everyone gets there.
3. Worship leader is awesome! He rocks!
4. Praise band is awesome! They rock!
5. We have a female bass player. She rocks!
6. Families enjoy our family production and love that we are the only church on Oak Ridge doing this sort of family ministry.
7. Our Reactor Factor drama teams are fantastic!
8. We have 26 volunteers working in some area of children's ministry. Wow!
9. The people believe in my leadership and experience more so than a college diploma that hangs on the wall.
10. New families visiting!
11. My boss (the Sr. Pastor) treats me as an equal. Treats me as a fellow pastor, not as the head honcho of a baby sitting club.
12. My boss wears flip flops when he preaches.
13. Staff lead.
14. God is moving!
15. It's just really stinkin groovy!

Beginning Weigh In (June 29)

2008-06-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I couldn't do the video. Well, not that I couldn't, just wouldn't. The thought of me standing there without a shirt on frightened me big time. So I just couldn't do it. So if you want to see a scary movie go rent one. He he!

So here's the measurements as of 9pm today. I will update weekly.

Weight: 200.6#
Shoulders: 48 3/4"
Chest: 42"
Waist: 40"
Arms: 14"

My future

2008-06-19T05:10:00.000-07:00

If all goes as planned, Lord willing and the creeks don't rise this is soon to be my future. Looking forward to just relaxing underneath the umbrella, watching the kids play, digging into some good books and long lined buffets. It's been several years since I've been to the beach and even longer since I've been to Myrtle Beach. Usually we head down to Destin but we thought it might be a shorter drive to Myrtle... because of gas! Can't wait! So, if you know of any good restaurants in the area let me know.

I'm sick of it!

2008-06-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

Ok. I’m tired of it. Sick of it. And I can’t take it no more! What is it? It’s this excess baggage that I carry with me. I’m not talking about woe-is-me baggage. I’m talking about weight!

To look at me you would probably say, “you’re not over weight!” But actually I am. And I feel terrible. Currently I weigh 203#. According to my weight and height chart I should weigh around 178#. So I’m 25# over my ideal body weight and boy I sure feel it.

Over the past several years I have made a miserable attempt to diet and lose weight… and failed. So now I’m really going to make a strong effort to lose some poundage.

Starting when I return from my vacation I will make a beginning video, for all the world to see, as I will be posting it here on my blog. I will show the real me, no sucking in and the actual weight as I get on the scale. I will also take some measurements. So you have been warned! The footage could be scary so put the children and pets in another room as you watch the video. We don’t want them to be traumatized for life.

I plan on doing some walking/running on a daily basis along with some proper eating. Cutting out the fast food, basically eating right! I’m going to hold off on the sweets, although I’m not a big sweet eater.

So, be looking for the post and when you see me on youtube please note that I’m on my way! Hold me accountable… please!

Secret City Festival

2008-06-18T06:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend, starting Friday, is the Secret City Festival in Oak Ridge. New Hope Fellowship will have a booth set up. Hope to see you there! Come join us and let's hang out!

The Secret City Festival is a free festival, open to the public from 11am - 6pm on Friday and 10am - 6pm on Saturday.

Free Children's Festival activities include a kid's talent show, karaoke and a dance floor, giant inflatables, arts & crafts, mule & wagon rides, Euro-bungy, Puppetone Rockers, Oscar the Robot, a game zone, graffiti car, and much more.

A juried Arts & Crafts Show, antiques, exhibitors, entertainment, and fabulous festival food round out the weekend's events. Visitors can also visit the Lavender Festival in Historic Jackson Square, take tours to different Manhattan Project facilities, and witness the Invasion of Normandy re-enacted by more than 200 WWII re-enactors.

This year's concert headliners are The Turtles and Mary Wilson of the Supremes. Concerts begin at 7pm and gates open at 5:30.

Five dollar books and pepper flakes

2008-06-18T05:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday after meeting with our small group in Knoxville, Kimberly, Molly and I went to the discount Christian book store on North Peters road beside Jo Ann's. Wow, first time I have been in there and seriously not the last. I could have went crazy! I had to limit myself to two books simply because I have recently purchased several books that I'm planning on reading (see post below). But wow, I could have went crazy in there! I ended up buying {Gods's Blogs} Insights from his site by Lanny Donoho and This Beautiful Mess: Practicing the Presence of the Kingdom of God by Rick Mckinley.

Afterward we drove across the street to eat at a Taste of Thai restaurant. Dang! This place was awesome! First time I have ever eaten Thai food and I loved it! Around the second or third bite I had a piece of pepper flake get lodged in my throat. The heat from the pepper flake began to bake in my throat as if I were an oven. This in turn triggered a sort of weeping action from my tear ducts and I began to weep like a baby. No verbal outcrying, just weeping and sniffing. My napkin was therefore used to wipe tears instead of food. Eventually after much flooding of Dr. Pepper the flake became unlodged and is now eating away at the lining of my stomach. When ordering they ask "how hot" and you tell them on a scale of 1 to 5 as to how spicy you would like it to be. My meal had a rating of 2. Must say, I will surely go back again to battle the pepper flakes another day. It was fantastic! Oh yeah, we ate outside which made it all the better. Love going to restaurants and eating outside!

How To Tell That Your Children's Pastor is Under Too Much Stress

2008-06-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

by Roger Fields

Your Children’s Pastor might be under too much stress if he/she...

* Breathes helium from the tank without even trying to talk funny.
* Mixes two or more flavors of Kool Aid into a paper cup and gulped it down before children's church.
* Stares at the Senior Pastor through a fork during staff meetings and pretended he’s in jail.
* Spells out the names of the pastors kids in his/her alphabet soup.
* Hangs out on Friday nights at the local Chuck E. Cheese.
* Answers the church phone in a puppet voice.
* Verbally abuses the Bob the Tomato puppet.
* Acts more and more like Mr. Rogers.
* Sings Father Abraham (with the motions) in the shower loudly enough to make the neighbors complain.
* Draws mustaches on Bible flannel graph characters.
* Mutters the books of the Old Testament in his/her sleep.
* Raises his/her hand at Denny's and asked the waitress for permission to go tinkle.
* Watches Blues Clues and pointed to the screen yelling “there’s one!”.
* Collects free toys from fast food restaurants and displayed them in the living room.
* Watches Disney movies backwards and looked for hidden messages.
* Calls the chairman of the church board in the middle of the night and hung up.
* Talks to board members in Pig Latin.
* Performs magic tricks while in line at Sams.
* Skims money off of the children’s church offering to buy Gummy Bears.
* Bursts into the local post office wearing a full-bodied dog costume and blasted everyone with a super soaker.
* Confessed to putting Sesame Street characters names on a visitor information cards.
* Held up a puppet to talk to the server at a drive through window.
* Refers to the wisdom of Larry the Cucumber.
* Been caught more than once photocopying his/her face on the church copier.
* Redesigned the bulletin board at the local grocery store to put more color in it.
* Tried to give the bank security guard the quiet seat prize.
* Been discovered sitting in the corner of his/her office balloon sculpting in the dark.
* Had to be tackled by an usher for trying to rush the platform when the adult worship service went long.
* Forced his/her way into choir practice and held the choir director hostage with blunt scissors demanding that choir members work in the nursery like everyone else.
* Locked himself/herself in the Sunday School supply room and threatened to blow up the puppet stage until the board votes to go back to one Sunday morning service.

STRESS LEVEL SCORING: Number of "Yes" answers mean...
(0-10) more mature than most children's pastors
(11-20) about normal
(21-30) needs a vacation soon
(over 30) find him/her now!

12 Reasons Why Children's Ministry is Superior to Other Ministries

2008-06-17T05:34:00.000-07:00

By Roger Fields

1. Longer Results—Children who have just made a commitment to the Lord have their entire lives before them. Adults who accept the Lord have already squandered much of their lives. Children’s ministry is the only place where you can impact one’s entire life span. That's why D.L. Moody, when asked how many were saved in the service, replied, "two and a half." He explained there were two children and one adult. The adult had already lived much of his life while the children had their entire lives before them.

2. Superior Challenge—Children vary widely with respect to age, comprehension, physical challenges, attention spans, etc. and therefore require more ability to educate. Adults do not bother their neighbor or snatch offering money from those sitting adjacent. They are much easier to restrain and therefore less of a challenge in a group setting. It takes more ability and creativity to teach children.

3. More Fun—You just can’t get away with doing in adult services what you can do in children’s church. Adults tend to think predictability and monotony are fruits of the Spirit. This must be the reason none of the hymns have motions.

4. Less Pretentiousness—The difference between adults and children is that adults have learned to sit quietly after you lose their attention. Children are not as phony. If you are a lousy teacher they tend to let you know. They are considerably more authentic.

5. More Humility—Jesus made this point in Matthew 18. Children have a better grasp of their limitations than do adults. There are reasons why Jesus never asked the children to be more like the adults to enter the kingdom of God. He said it the other way around. Children seldom possess an inflated view of their own ability. They understand that when they come to Jesus it is with nothing in their hands to offer Him.

6. Fewer Offenses—Children may get upset if they feel they are mistreated but they don’t harbor resentments over some of the silly issues that adults get worked up over. When was the last time you ever heard of a child leaving the children’s ministry because the children’s pastor didn’t shake his/her hand at the door?

7. More Participation—Children want do be involved. They don’t want to sit and watch. Adults are too content to merely observe. Many churches find themselves having to beat adults over the head to get them to serve. Children desire to participate and serve.

8. Greater Warning—Jesus never warned that offending an adult would result in consequences worse than having a millstone tied around your neck and being heaved into the sea. He did say that in Matthew 18 about those who offend children. Evidently, there is something exceptional about children.

9. Larger Team—It takes more people to work in children’s ministry than it does to work in other departments in the church. Children’s ministry is normally the largest department in the church and, therefore, often requires the greatest leadership skills to oversee.

10. Bigger Sacrifice—Ushers, greeters, choir members, etc. never have to miss the adult service or any of the special events. Children’s ministry workers often miss services so others might enjoy them.

11. Better Reward—In Matthew 10 Jesus said those who give even cold water to little ones receive a reward that cannot be lost. He simply did not make that promise to other ministries. For instance, nowhere does Jesus say that ushers have a reward they will by no means lose if they can get the people to scoot over on Easter. But those who can do ANYTHING in children’s ministry—such as prepare the refreshments—have a unique promise of reward others cannot claim.

12. Jesus--Jesus said that when we receive a child in His name we receive Him (Matthew 18:5). Did He ever say that about receiving grownups? No. So whether you have ten or a thousand children in your children’s ministry you supernaturally receive Jesus into your midst that many times over.

The Jesus Vacation

2008-06-16T04:43:00.000-07:00

And the pastor says... "Let's remember those who are not with us today. Some are out of town on vacation." Yeah, the Jesus vacation! Number go down every summer. Yes, people do go on vacation, but a three week vacation is unusual. How about come one Sunday, skip the next. And make sure you do this throughout the summer. Summer makes me sick! You're actually taking a Jesus vacation!

Not only are you skipping church on Sunday, but I would say your Bible study goes way down also. That is if you did any sort of Bible study!?!?

Churches, staff, has to rearrange everything during the summer simply because of you! The Jesus vacation dude (JVD)! Our ministries suffer because of the JVD. Our tithes and offerings suffer because of the JVD. Everything suffers and has to be rearranged because your need to take Sunday off. Tisk, tisk, pity, pity!

Aren't you glad that God doesn't take a world vacation? A creation vacation? A relationship vacation? Yeah, me too.

I'm not angry, though it may sound that way, but it actually makes me laugh. Let's just call it what it is, your Jesus vacation.

Oh, and thanks for being a really good example to your kids also. Trust me, they will follow in your footsteps. Doesn't that make you proud?

33

2008-06-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

Just setting here thinking. We now have thirty-three volunteers working in various areas of our children's ministry here at New Hope Fellowship. For a church of 100 average, that's pretty dog gone awesome!

Just about half way through the book The Ultimate Survival Guide for Children's Ministry Workers by Ivy Beckwith. This book could serve as a instruction manual to give to new volunteers working in children's ministry. No more do you need to write everything down, print it out, hand it out and all that other stuff. Just buy a case of these books (around $7.00, probably could get them cheaper in bulk) and pass them out. In the end you save time, training and money.

Break it!

2008-06-05T06:21:00.000-07:00

There’s an old saying, “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” That’s a pretty good statement and philosophy. But, I’m the kind of guy who likes to break things. So I prefer, “If it ain’t broke, break it and make it better.”

One great opportunity I have being involved in church planting is I get to go out to other churches, church plants and existing churches, and see how they do church. I don’t have a board hovering over me making sure I’m at the church 24/7 (stretching that… a bit). I can take a Sunday off and go to another church, take a tour, set in on services and various children’s classes and examine how they’re doing church.

One thing, I think we can get into is the ole church rut. We can become blind to what’s going on around us and not be able to see things the way others see things. We might think we have a great group of people greeting our visitors as they walk through the door. But by attending another church we can see that we fall short of what we hold our expectations to be. We may not be greeting like we thought we were.

Same with children’s ministries. We might think we’re tops in what we do in our children’s ministry. It’s good to visit, and learn, finding that we may be running our CM the same way the Pilgrims did on the Mayflower. It may be old and stagnant and we never knew the difference.

There are a lot of different ministries that we have in our churches. We need to always be wondering what’s going on. If we stay indoors then that’s all we’ll know. If we don’t become friends, buddies and pals with other pastors from other churches we fail. Period.

One thing we like to do at NHF is ask friends (who may attend other churches) to take a break and come visit our church on Sunday. We want to use them for fresh new eyes. We ask them to come in and pretend they do not even know us. We want them to give us an honest opinion on how we are doing. It’s a way evaluation and way of making things better.

So, that’s why I like to break things. It forces me to be creative. It forces me to look outside the box. It forces me to take the blinders off and take a look at what’s going on around me. So get out, visit other churches, become friends with other pastors and let’s make things better.

What I've read, what I'm reading

2008-06-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

So, I just finished a few books. Thought I would share. Finished reading... Unchristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons (Thanks Dennis for the recommendation). Making Vision Stick by Andy Stanley. Cirque Du Soleil - The Spark, Igniting the Creative Fire that Lives within us All by John U. Bacon and Lyn Heward. And, The World According to Mister Rogers: Important Things to Remember by Fred rogers.

That was books I've read recently. Now here some books I plan on reading through my vacation (while lying under an umbrella on the beach). The Ultimate Survival Guide for Children's Ministry Workers by Ivy Beckwith. Lead the Way God Made You: Discovering Your Leadership Style in Children's Ministry by Larry Shallenberger. Me, Myself, and Bob: A True Story About God, Dreams, and Talking Vegetables by Phil Vischer. The Fabulous Reinvention of Sunday School: Transformational Techniques for Reaching and Teaching Kids by Aaron Reynolds. And of course the latest edition of Children's Ministry Magazine.

Just in case you wondered,
Steve

Harvey Korman dies

2008-05-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

Harvey Korman, the versatile comedian who won four Emmys for his outrageously funny contributions to “The Carol Burnett Show” and played a conniving politician to hilarious effect in “Blazing Saddles,” died Thursday. He was 81.

Korman died at UCLA Medical Center after suffering complications from the rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm four months ago.

Read here.

Secret City Festival

2008-05-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Ok, our church, New Hope Fellowship, will have a booth set up at the Secret City Festival in Oak Ridge on June 20th - 21st. I will be there on the 20th running the booth and Kimberly and I both will be there on the 21st. We want you to stop by and visit us! If you are a member of NHF please come by and help or just hang out. It's gonna be a blast!

Check it out here!

Reactor Factor Logo

2008-05-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Here's our new family ministry logo made by my friend Angel. I just told him a bit about the area of Oak Ridge and this is what he came up with. Pretty snazzy!

Steven Curtis Chapman's daughter killed by car in driveway

2008-05-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

Please pray for the Chapman family.

New logo

2008-05-21T05:27:00.000-07:00

My very good friend, Angel Contreras, has made a new logo for our nursery and preschool ministry, Yahweh's World. Angel is a very talented artist who lives in the Chicago area. I met him at a clown convention in Georgia and we became very good friends along with our families as well. He is also working on a logo for our family ministry, Reactor Factor. Angel became known in the clown world for drawing clown characters. He is fantastic at what he does. His website here.

TOMS Shoes

2008-05-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Bought my first pair of shoes from TOMS. I bought the Burlap
Woven TOMS. I'd have to say I love these shoes and are some of the most comfortable shoes I have ever warn. I also love the whole philosophy behind TOMS. For every pair of shoes you purchase, TOMS will give a pair to a child in need. So, I encourage you to buy your own pair of TOMS, maybe even have a TOMS party. Check out the video below and visit the site.

NHF Update 05/14/08

2008-05-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

Things are going really well. For the past several of weeks we have been running 85 to 95 in attendance. Each week we average around 30 kids. When I first came on board they were running around 60, so that's a jump of about 30 in just 4 months. A lot of people say don't pay attention to the numbers. That's good they can do that, I'm not able to do that given my quality background. So, that's an increase of 7.5 a month. Sounds good to me.

Reactor Factor (our family production) is doing great! We average 40 to 50 in attendance. Great to see families sitting together, laughing together and learning together! What's encouraging is to know they get up early and come at 9:30am to be a part of this ministry. These are the folks that really care about their children's spiritual growth. Sorry if that offens someone but that's the way I see it. Get out of bed!

We still continue to wonder where the added funds are going to come from in getting the needed items when we move to the theater. I know, I know, God will provide. It's just kind of frustrating to see churches in our area who are so struck on themselves and keeping all their dollars wrapped in cob webs. They'd rather keep it there than helping other growing churches in the area. Wonder why God's not growing these churches? I think we know the answer. It's hard to seek funding from other churches. Every one's in competition... that's the truth, they just will not admit it. Pretty sad isn't it?

Ok, I'm starting to climb on the box here... don't want to do that, at least not tonight.

Later.
Steve

Missing

2008-04-23T16:53:00.001-07:00

It just hit me tonight. I really, really miss Doo Dads Snack Mix!

Random thoughts this morning

2008-04-16T05:03:00.001-07:00

1. Really digging the band Down Here right now. Lovin the song The
More. That song really makes me want to get up and do the
happy dance.

2. Our church, New Hope Fellowship has its own myspace page now. Not a big deal, many churches have one but thought I would throw that out there.

3. Getting fired up about the Drive Conference coming up put on by North Point Community Church. Can't wait to get down there with the rest of the staff. It's gonna be a blast!

4. Reactor Factor (our family production) is going great! Two weeks into it and loving it! Great to see families learning together on a kid sized level.

5. Moving to the theater August 24th. Can't wait!

6. Sleepy, very sleepy this morning.

7. Would like to see more commitment from Christians! Get more involved! Serve! Get off your butts and do something!

8. I like using exclamation points!

9. Wondering if anyone ever reads this stuff?

10. My mind is dead as far as writing poetry. Can't make it happen. When I try to do that the poems are terrible.

Happy Birthday Fred Rogers

2008-03-20T05:16:00.000-07:00

March 20 would have been the late children's TV host's 80th birthday. Family Communications Inc. is also urging everyone all over the world to wear a favorite sweater that day in honor of Fred Rogers' legacy. Family Communications is the production company behind the long-running "Mister Rogers" public TV series.

David Newell, who plays Mr. McFeely on the show, stars in a YouTube video created to spread the word about the March 20 sweater day.

Might I also suggest the book The Simple Faith of Mister Rogers by Amy Hollingsworth. It's a good read.

Book recommendations. Do you have any?

2008-03-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

I'm gathering some book titles for my spring and summer reading list. I just finished reading,

Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples by Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger.
and
Schulz and Peanuts: A Biography by David Michaelis.

Currently reading,
In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars by Mark Batterson.

Just would like some recommendations from any of you on some very good books that you have read lately. Please comment.

God In A Box

2008-03-19T05:11:00.000-07:00

In a box, in a box.
I have it all right here in a box.
Its got four walls, a bottom, a top
Its even got a latch and a nice fancy lock

Nice box there my friend
May I look, can I see what resides within?
Is it big? Is it small?
Can you put it on a table?
Can you hang it on a wall?

No you may not! You will let him out.
He will fly through the air and wander about.
I keep him here where he’s safe and sound.
If we open the box he will never be found.

What? Just what do you have in the box?
He must be rare if he’s contained with a lock.
Is He full of color? Is he bright? Can he speak?
He’s really quiet. Is he awake or asleep?

He’s awake can’t you hear him pounding the sides?.
“Let me out, let me out” he says but I can not comply.
He needs to have limits, walls you see.
He might do way too much if I set him free.

I hear nothing in there. Are you telling the truth or lies.
I’d like to take a peek with my very own eyes.
Don’t be stingy, free the lock with the key.
Open the lid to the box and show it to me.

I’m telling the truth you will know that for certain.
I have God in this box. The creator in carton.
He must stay in here and do as I desire.
If I let God from the box more of me might be required.

God? You have God in a box?
You have nothing right there in your box.
You can never contain God with four walls, a bottom, a top
Not even a latch and a nice fancy lock.

What? How dare you say.
You can’t talk about my God that way.
In the box He has limits I keep them small like me.
Outside the box I’m afraid I can’t control what I can not see.

The pounding you hear the plea of release.
That is your heart crying out, begging to be free.
God can do great things if you open the box.
Knock down the walls, the bottom, the top.

God sent his son to die on a cross, for you, for me.
So that all lids can be opened and all can go free.
Set the box down, you need it no more.
When you open the lid, you’ve opened the door.

The Foul Smell Of Words

2008-03-12T07:48:00.001-07:00

Random words born of the heart
Spew like fire from lips and tongue
Said with smile and twinkling eye
Leak the foul smell of words

So this is the language of maturity?
This is the heart of His child?
Comedy takes a back seat
With the foul smell of words

Hypocrisy takes the stage
And bares its evil tongue
Acting out you live the part
Embracing the foul smell of words

Disappointment fills the air
Friends look away in pain
Turn it off screams the child
Remembering the foul smell of words

Is this the one we know?
Who speaks of love and life?
Cursing lips sup communion cup
And wash over the foul smell of words

Four letters fill the mouth
What actually fills your heart?
Mirrored out for all to see
Your love for the foul smell of words

More poetic quotes from a 9 year old.

2008-03-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

“It’s not the end but the start of something new. All is clean, pure and full of praise to give to God. Merciful and wonder He is and I will praise Him forever more.”

“Life is to everlasting because my heart beats of gold and my feet walk with courage. My hand writes with silver as though I am a queen in a large kingdom. I eat from a plate that is real gold. I am treated like royalty.”

“Today I write with courage and faith knowing God will lead me through the day without doubt. I trust Him to protect me. He will.”

Love To The Day

2008-03-11T05:15:00.000-07:00

Love to the day, love to the night
Embracing the time within twenty-four
Living as though neither appear
One minute one second perhaps more

Love of the day, love of the night
Entertaining shadows dance bout the floor
Surrounded in moonlight whispers your name
Embracing the sleep for granted new day

Love in the day, love in the night
Everything’s lovely, life, love and you
Looking toward future, sure in the dawn
What it will share surprises in morrow

Love now the day, love now the night
Time becomes master, you become slave
Success becomes one, life becomes two
Time finds a friend and you find a fool

Love to the day, love to the night
Embracing it all between light and dark
Living as though each time will last
Time perhaps lost, seasons perchance passed