Saturday, January 21, 2006
the planter
Are you looking for an authentic New Testament church filled with mature, Spirit-filled believers who are consumed with Great Commandment hearts and sold out to Great Commission priorities? Can you imagine a church community that is transparent and authentic where believers and unbelievers can gather and have needs met? Can you imagine a church community where people love God and others without limits? Can you imagine a church community sold out for the Great Commission, even willing to give it all up for the cause of reaching lost people? I dream of a new disciplemaking system that reaches and builds disciples who reach others and in turn builds New Testament communities or churches. I long for the church to be effective in being the Church. Check out: the planter (Catch the vision growing in St. Louis, MO)
The Need to Talk It Out
“The Need to Talk It Out”
When I was in my pre-teen years an incident occurred that has forever shaped my view of life. Like most pre-teens today, I was no different. I had my friends that I hung out with. I had a desire to play “kid’s games” while knowing that I was expected to be a teen. I had my activities and social activities as well as my responsibilities and chores. I grew up along the shores of Lake Erie in Michigan. I loved fishing, hunting small game, tromping through the marsh, playing baseball and going out in my row boat. Life seemed perfect! I was sheltered from the problems of the inner-city of Detroit. Life has it usual disappointments…like doing the dishes. Living is a large family with six brothers and one sister, there was always someone willing to do something with you or even just to provide the usual “follow the bigger brother” and be a nuisance game.
One day while I was riding my bike with a friend, life forever changed. As I rode my bike on Bayside Drive I came upon a most unusual site. While changing a tire a man laid over the spare in a very curious position. I called out to him but there was no reply. I went closer to discover that the man was not resting but looked dead. I shook him with little result. I was stunned. I ran down the street calling for help.
Within minutes the neighborhood was swarming with neighbors and soon several Sheriff Deputies and medical people. I watched as they worked on the man to revive him. Their efforts did not produce results. The man’s wife was crying nearby as they announced to the crowd that the man was dead. I watched as they loaded his lifeless body into the ambulance and drove off. The officers asked me some questions and wrote down my name.
Within an hour my world had suddenly changed. I was now aware of something that I had never seen before. Sure, I knew of death. My grandparents had died and I attended their funeral. My friend’s uncle died and I remember the ambulance coming to his house. But up until now, death was something different. It was not so eventful to me. It seemed to be peaceful and a quiet hush overshadowed it. It was something that happened but no one really ever talked about it.
The crowd began to disperse and people went back to their homes. Life seemed to just go on for most people but not for me. I needed to talk to someone about what had just happened but there I stood, alone. I too eventually went home but before I could talk about it, my family already knew. My mother was on the phone telling my father and my siblings were chatting with others about it. No one asked me anything. I was left to deal with this life-shattering event seemingly alone.
Several days went by before the incident was brought up again. I was asked by my pastor to tell him about the old man. I told him everything I experienced. He asked me if I was doing okay. He wanted to know if I slept okay. He asked if I had any nightmares. He asked me if I was afraid in any way. I answered him the best I could. It was a good feeling because he talked with me about the old man. He let me know that God was a good God and knew of the incident. He made me feel special by telling me that I was God’s special messenger when I called out for help for the old man. He said that I was brave for waiting for help to come. Perhaps the best feeling came because someone actually let me talk about the old man.
Today we call this debriefing and defusing. It is a technique that provides an outlet for healing the stress of a crisis event. Chaplains, police officers, medical personnel, counselors and other professionals utilize this strategy to limit the results of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (ptsd). PTSD is a long-term psychological disorder that comes as a result of an untreated stressful crisis experience. Problems that result could cause “flashbacks” or reliving the experiences in an unhealthy manor or unresolved fear or even unhealthy angry outburst can result.
What my pastor provided for me was a closure to the negative experience. He didn’t minimize the incident but helped me find peace and ways to deal with my fears. Churches are providing small group discussions for people dealing with crises in their lives. These small group discussions are part of Crisis Evangelism. They provide good news in bad times! Churches that provide a caring community of people demonstrating empathy and compassion is Crisis Evangelism. People have a need to talk it out! Join the discussion today.
ARE THEY OK?
“ARE THEY OK?”
We have all thought it. "I wonder, are they ok?" Every time we hear a siren or see a car accident we have wondered if the people involved will be ok. There is something within all of us that our heart goes out to those at the scene. As a believer in prayer I will lift of a word of prayer for those involved in the accident. I ask God to protect the children that may be involved. I ask God to provide comfort those who survive. I ask God to protect emergency workers responding to the call. You are like me I am sure. Our heart goes out and we wonder, “Are they ok?”
When I was about ten years old I was the witness of a car accident. If it weren't for my mother's careful defensive driving we too would have been victims. In this case we were witnesses to a car driving way too fast for road conditions. The car was going well over seventy miles an hour when it passed us and the curve ahead was too sharp to maneuver. The car skidded off the road, just missing a residence and rolled four times before coming to rest upside down in a field.
With little hesitation we rushed over to the accident looking for ways to help the driver and passenger trapped in the car. There were two people inside the car trying to get out of the damaged wreckage. A smell of gasoline was in the air. My mother expressed her caution for the risks but we proceeded to free the occupants. The victims were thrashing and kicking, making every effort to free themselves. It took us a few minutes but we were able to free each passenger. My mother made attempts to calm the driver and provide basic medical attention. He sustained a large cut on the forehead and was very agitated. The other passenger looked to be in shock. He just sat on the ground moaning. Later we learned that he had broken his arm.
The police and ambulance did arrive to provide additional medical assistance while the police took our statement. Alcohol use was a factor in the accident. Within days of the accident a police officer visited the house for further information about the accident. The accident left an incredible impression in my memory. There were many times after this scene that I wondered, are they ok?
I am sure that this incident, along with several other memories like this, has contributed to my interest in helping people who are dealing with crisis. Thankful there are wonderful First Responders (Law enforcement, Medical Technicians, Nurses, Fire-fighters and others) who give immediate assistance when tragedy strikes. Having provided Chaplain Services over the years and provided Pastoral services to police departments in Indiana and Illinois, I have seen the personal sacrifice and risk that First Responders take when providing emergency help. I also believe that there is a place for community volunteers who wish to lend a helping hand. Places like the Salvation Army, The Red Cross or emergency volunteer organizations that lend a helping hand.
Everyday we learn of tragic circumstances confronting people. News reports are rapid and intensive as they report Tsunami scenes, Hurricane and tornado scenes, trapped miners, and many other incredible tragedies in our world. We are reminded that life is temporary and often filled with tragic times. A Ministry of Presence in times of crisis is a real ministry to people in need. This is just one way caring people can make a difference. The church should play a roll in meeting needs. Bringing good news in bad times is a great opportunity to demonstrate the love of God during tragic times; during times of incredible doubt and personal hurt. Crisis Evangelism is a ministry of communicating the good news of Christ’s love to people in the midst of terrible times. There are opportunities to bear witness of a loving and incredibly good God during difficult times in the life of people dealing with crises of all kinds.
Let’s unite together to develop ways to meet people at their most difficult times. By conveying our love and ultimately God’s love through a Ministry of Presence we can make a profound difference the aftermath of crisis.
We have all thought it. "I wonder, are they ok?" Every time we hear a siren or see a car accident we have wondered if the people involved will be ok. There is something within all of us that our heart goes out to those at the scene. As a believer in prayer I will lift of a word of prayer for those involved in the accident. I ask God to protect the children that may be involved. I ask God to provide comfort those who survive. I ask God to protect emergency workers responding to the call. You are like me I am sure. Our heart goes out and we wonder, “Are they ok?”
When I was about ten years old I was the witness of a car accident. If it weren't for my mother's careful defensive driving we too would have been victims. In this case we were witnesses to a car driving way too fast for road conditions. The car was going well over seventy miles an hour when it passed us and the curve ahead was too sharp to maneuver. The car skidded off the road, just missing a residence and rolled four times before coming to rest upside down in a field.
With little hesitation we rushed over to the accident looking for ways to help the driver and passenger trapped in the car. There were two people inside the car trying to get out of the damaged wreckage. A smell of gasoline was in the air. My mother expressed her caution for the risks but we proceeded to free the occupants. The victims were thrashing and kicking, making every effort to free themselves. It took us a few minutes but we were able to free each passenger. My mother made attempts to calm the driver and provide basic medical attention. He sustained a large cut on the forehead and was very agitated. The other passenger looked to be in shock. He just sat on the ground moaning. Later we learned that he had broken his arm.
The police and ambulance did arrive to provide additional medical assistance while the police took our statement. Alcohol use was a factor in the accident. Within days of the accident a police officer visited the house for further information about the accident. The accident left an incredible impression in my memory. There were many times after this scene that I wondered, are they ok?
I am sure that this incident, along with several other memories like this, has contributed to my interest in helping people who are dealing with crisis. Thankful there are wonderful First Responders (Law enforcement, Medical Technicians, Nurses, Fire-fighters and others) who give immediate assistance when tragedy strikes. Having provided Chaplain Services over the years and provided Pastoral services to police departments in Indiana and Illinois, I have seen the personal sacrifice and risk that First Responders take when providing emergency help. I also believe that there is a place for community volunteers who wish to lend a helping hand. Places like the Salvation Army, The Red Cross or emergency volunteer organizations that lend a helping hand.
Everyday we learn of tragic circumstances confronting people. News reports are rapid and intensive as they report Tsunami scenes, Hurricane and tornado scenes, trapped miners, and many other incredible tragedies in our world. We are reminded that life is temporary and often filled with tragic times. A Ministry of Presence in times of crisis is a real ministry to people in need. This is just one way caring people can make a difference. The church should play a roll in meeting needs. Bringing good news in bad times is a great opportunity to demonstrate the love of God during tragic times; during times of incredible doubt and personal hurt. Crisis Evangelism is a ministry of communicating the good news of Christ’s love to people in the midst of terrible times. There are opportunities to bear witness of a loving and incredibly good God during difficult times in the life of people dealing with crises of all kinds.
Let’s unite together to develop ways to meet people at their most difficult times. By conveying our love and ultimately God’s love through a Ministry of Presence we can make a profound difference the aftermath of crisis.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
8 Simple Ways to Control Stress
8 Simple Ways to Control Stress!
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Simple modifications in posture, habits, thought, and behavior often go a long way toward reducing feelings of stress and tension. Here are 8 quick and simple things you can do immediately to help keep your stress level under control.
1. Control Your Anger:
Watch for the next instance in which you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry at something trivial or unimportant, then practice letting go - make a conscious choice not to become angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste thought and energy where it isn't deserved. Effective anger management is a tried-and-true stress reducer.
2. Breathe:
Breathe slowly and deeply. Before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and release them slowly. If you have a few minutes, try out breathing exercises such as meditation or guided imagery.
3. Slow Down:
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your speech you'll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation.
4. Complete One Simple To Do:
Jump start an effective time management strategy. Choose one simple thing you have been putting off (e.g. returning a phone call, making a doctor's appointment) and do it immediately. Just taking care of one nagging responsibility can be energizing and can improve your attitude.
5. Get Some Fresh Air:
Get outdoors for a brief break. Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating.
6. Avoid Hunger and Dehydration:
Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks. Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.
7. Do a Quick Posture Check:
Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension, pain, and increased stress.
8. Recharge at the Day’s End:
Plan something rewarding for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. Don't spend this time planning tomorrow's schedule or doing chores you didn't get around to during the day. Remember that you need time to recharge and energize yourself - you'll be much better prepared to face another stressful day.
(image placeholder)
Simple modifications in posture, habits, thought, and behavior often go a long way toward reducing feelings of stress and tension. Here are 8 quick and simple things you can do immediately to help keep your stress level under control.
1. Control Your Anger:
Watch for the next instance in which you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry at something trivial or unimportant, then practice letting go - make a conscious choice not to become angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste thought and energy where it isn't deserved. Effective anger management is a tried-and-true stress reducer.
2. Breathe:
Breathe slowly and deeply. Before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and release them slowly. If you have a few minutes, try out breathing exercises such as meditation or guided imagery.
3. Slow Down:
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your speech you'll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation.
4. Complete One Simple To Do:
Jump start an effective time management strategy. Choose one simple thing you have been putting off (e.g. returning a phone call, making a doctor's appointment) and do it immediately. Just taking care of one nagging responsibility can be energizing and can improve your attitude.
5. Get Some Fresh Air:
Get outdoors for a brief break. Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating.
6. Avoid Hunger and Dehydration:
Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks. Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.
7. Do a Quick Posture Check:
Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension, pain, and increased stress.
8. Recharge at the Day’s End:
Plan something rewarding for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. Don't spend this time planning tomorrow's schedule or doing chores you didn't get around to during the day. Remember that you need time to recharge and energize yourself - you'll be much better prepared to face another stressful day.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
A not-so-new-way of reaching people for Christ!
Jesus modeled compassion! As He announced his divine purpose He did so by reading of Isaiah 61. This passage of scripture spoke of compassion and love demonstrated to people in great need. Recorded in Lu 4:18 - "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed..." we discover that Jesus had not only a heavenly ministry of salvation but also a more earthly ministry too!
Clearly Jesus demonstrated love in action by His ministry to heal the sick, comfort the brokenhearted, raise the dead, recover sight to the blind, heal the physically disabled and feed the hungry. We too are instructed to "do unto the least of these." (Mt 25:40 - "And the King will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' )
A not-so-new-way of reaching people is to demonstrate our LOVE to those in crisis. Jesus was a presence in time of need. (See: John 11:11 - "He said this, and then He told them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I'm on My way to wake him up." )
People are in crisis everyday! What can we do about it? Provide a ministry of presence in the name of Christ. By doing this we comfort the brokenhearted!
Clearly Jesus demonstrated love in action by His ministry to heal the sick, comfort the brokenhearted, raise the dead, recover sight to the blind, heal the physically disabled and feed the hungry. We too are instructed to "do unto the least of these." (Mt 25:40 - "And the King will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' )
A not-so-new-way of reaching people is to demonstrate our LOVE to those in crisis. Jesus was a presence in time of need. (See: John 11:11 - "He said this, and then He told them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I'm on My way to wake him up." )
People are in crisis everyday! What can we do about it? Provide a ministry of presence in the name of Christ. By doing this we comfort the brokenhearted!
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