You ever seen a fat baby? I know, most babies are fat and their cute. But as they get older, fat is NOT always cute. Now, I know what your thinking, I am not about to make fat jokes or crude comments about that, but I do have a point. I also realize there are medical conditions that people cannot help as well. All that aside, a fat baby is not something you want. They are unhealthy and often are consumed thinking about themselves and what they will eat next.
Spiritually, we have the same thing. There are many people who consume and consume and consume great Bible teaching, have thousands of hours of classes and discussions. They are just full fat babies. They often time bounce around from church to church and graze off all the good buffets. After they get comfortable at a place they then want to start telling all the other people how they can grow and become like them. If you don't do what they do, then you will NOT be growing in your faith. They love religion and are good at it. But when it comes to living what their reading and doing it, well that's a different story. They want to tell others, but then don't want to do it themselves. They'll be quick to point out your flaws as your serving while their sitting.
This week our challenge has been to get off the bench and follow God. To be open and willing to do whatever He ask us to do regardless of maybe how unique or different the ask is. Today's reading we see Abram being asked to kill animals and then he hears about God's promise to them. (Genesis 15:12-21) His descendants will be able to get to that awesome place, but they will have to go through 400 years of slavery. One question that challenged me was, would I be willing to follow God if I knew that it would take that long for it to happen. Don't know if I would have that type of faith. I want it here and now. What about you? Could you continue to follow God if you knew that you would never get to experience his promise? I don't know. WOW!
Philip Thurman
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Al Gore Is My Hero!
This is NOT a political statement. I am not endorsing a candidate or a party, but I am so grateful for Al Gore. Let me explain.
A few weeks ago my parents came and told me that they wanted to do something special for our family this Christmas. They want to give us a trip to Bangladesh and other Asian cities. So I made the call to a travel agent that I was instructed to call. After some research on the journey I had laid out, it came to be way too much money. So I made the call to my parents to inform them that the trip was way out of budget. I was honestly disappointed. I really wanted to be able to take my family to the world I grew up in.
After thinking and doing some discussing I decided to do some looking. Here's where Al Gore comes in. I got on the world wide web that he discovered. Man, I found some incredible deals that seemed unreal, so I did some research and they were all legit, but had to be purchased via the internet in order to get the deal. So get this. I have booked everything online. I booked all domestic and international plane tickets, hotel rooms in Los Angeles and Bangkok, Thailand. WOW! Thanks Al Gore. Without your invention, we would be paying high prices and may not be able to spend Christmas in Bangladesh.
Philip Thurman
A few weeks ago my parents came and told me that they wanted to do something special for our family this Christmas. They want to give us a trip to Bangladesh and other Asian cities. So I made the call to a travel agent that I was instructed to call. After some research on the journey I had laid out, it came to be way too much money. So I made the call to my parents to inform them that the trip was way out of budget. I was honestly disappointed. I really wanted to be able to take my family to the world I grew up in.
After thinking and doing some discussing I decided to do some looking. Here's where Al Gore comes in. I got on the world wide web that he discovered. Man, I found some incredible deals that seemed unreal, so I did some research and they were all legit, but had to be purchased via the internet in order to get the deal. So get this. I have booked everything online. I booked all domestic and international plane tickets, hotel rooms in Los Angeles and Bangkok, Thailand. WOW! Thanks Al Gore. Without your invention, we would be paying high prices and may not be able to spend Christmas in Bangladesh.
Philip Thurman
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Less Is More
As I have gone through this week I have been pondering a great deal about my life, my leadership strengths and weaknesses, time with my family and making the most of each moment. How am I doing in giving to things that matter and not doing things that will NOT matter. It has been a real challeng.
A few years ago I came across a thought that has challenged me and caused me to think about my life. I have a teenager in my life and another soon to be. How can I influnece them and help them be all GOd desires. LESS IS MORE. Our church has chosen as well to make certain sacrifices in order to help families. Part of it was out of need, but part of it was intentional. Instead of planning activities and events all the time, we chose less is more. We want to encourage people to be in small group, hanging out together and doing life. Lately I have been asked to speak at a ton of evening events and I am honored, but it has been freeing to be able to say Sorry I can't. I need to be home with my wife and kids. After this season of my life, I may be able to do more, but right now I cannot.
As you think about risk in your faith, could you truly follow God if He asked you to do something, or are you too busy doing so much you would have to tell Him to wait while you closed everything out. Less is more, as I spend more time with my teenagers I'm able to help and be in their world. As I say no to more, I am able to say yes to the family times. I really challenge you to think about what you would do if God asked you to do something sacrificial today, could you do it financially, spiritually? Tough words to think on.
Philip Thurman
A few years ago I came across a thought that has challenged me and caused me to think about my life. I have a teenager in my life and another soon to be. How can I influnece them and help them be all GOd desires. LESS IS MORE. Our church has chosen as well to make certain sacrifices in order to help families. Part of it was out of need, but part of it was intentional. Instead of planning activities and events all the time, we chose less is more. We want to encourage people to be in small group, hanging out together and doing life. Lately I have been asked to speak at a ton of evening events and I am honored, but it has been freeing to be able to say Sorry I can't. I need to be home with my wife and kids. After this season of my life, I may be able to do more, but right now I cannot.
As you think about risk in your faith, could you truly follow God if He asked you to do something, or are you too busy doing so much you would have to tell Him to wait while you closed everything out. Less is more, as I spend more time with my teenagers I'm able to help and be in their world. As I say no to more, I am able to say yes to the family times. I really challenge you to think about what you would do if God asked you to do something sacrificial today, could you do it financially, spiritually? Tough words to think on.
Philip Thurman
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sacred Cows Make Great Burgers as well
I don't know if you have ever heard that comment or not, but when I did about 15 years ago, I just laughed ,but also reflected on the truth of that statement. Sacred patties and regular patties come from the same cow, therefore they should taste the same.
Your going, where in the world is this guy going. Well, we have been in a series called "Unwrapped" which identifies some of our core beliefs as a church. This past week we looked at the trait "Sacrifice." Not something our culture really challenges us to do. The truth be known, if we got serious about sacrifice, our spending and wasteful lifestyle would change, and marketers would have nothing to do. I don't have anything against marketers, but they convince us to buy things that we don't even need. We then take that stuff we bought and take it to storage and keep it for later, because we may need it. What would happen if we decided we were going to take the time and money we spent on that junk and invest it or sacrifice it for God.
We'll spend money and time yelling and screaming at ball games, going to movies, concerts and make huge sacrifices, which will NOT last. But instead, we could sacrifice and use our time and money to influence a culture, a people and see life change take place. That's something that will impact forever....that's a long time. What are you willing to risk or give up that you like or enjoy to potentially influence someone?
Philip Thurman
Your going, where in the world is this guy going. Well, we have been in a series called "Unwrapped" which identifies some of our core beliefs as a church. This past week we looked at the trait "Sacrifice." Not something our culture really challenges us to do. The truth be known, if we got serious about sacrifice, our spending and wasteful lifestyle would change, and marketers would have nothing to do. I don't have anything against marketers, but they convince us to buy things that we don't even need. We then take that stuff we bought and take it to storage and keep it for later, because we may need it. What would happen if we decided we were going to take the time and money we spent on that junk and invest it or sacrifice it for God.
We'll spend money and time yelling and screaming at ball games, going to movies, concerts and make huge sacrifices, which will NOT last. But instead, we could sacrifice and use our time and money to influence a culture, a people and see life change take place. That's something that will impact forever....that's a long time. What are you willing to risk or give up that you like or enjoy to potentially influence someone?
Philip Thurman
Thursday, September 18, 2008
You Want Me To Do What?
My sophomore year of college was an interesting year. I was probably going to be the starting goalie for our division II team. It was going to be an exciting year for me, but what I was NOT prepared for was the training that it was going to take to get ready for it. As with all athletes we start the season with great pep and excitement that we are willing to put the hard work in to make the season a great success. The real reality comes when you step on the pitch (soccer field) the first time on two a days. I had really enjoyed my summer and was NOT concerned about training and getting ready. We did our stretching and light jogging to get the muscles loose.
Coach ordered us to get a partner about our height and weight and then to meet him at the bottom of the hill. Now this means nothing to some of you. The hill was a small incline, but it was steep. He said, you will carry your partner on your back up and down this hill ten times, switch and ride for ten times and repeat that cycle five times. "You want us to do what?" Have you lost your mind, there's NO way! He blew the whistle and off we had to go. It was ridiculous....we did it, no clue how, but I also remember the pain right after, but the season after that moment seemed really easy.
This morning in our reading as a church we were asked to read Matthew 5:38-48. WOW! These are really difficult things we are called to do. As I was reading them this morning, I went back to that day, "You want me to do what?" Love my enemy, pray for those who persecute me, don't just love those that love you, but love those who don't love you....then He closes out "But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect." Why such tall orders? We cannot ever be perfect can we? Why does God give us such impossible task? Would love to hear from you today on your thoughts.
Philip Thurman
Coach ordered us to get a partner about our height and weight and then to meet him at the bottom of the hill. Now this means nothing to some of you. The hill was a small incline, but it was steep. He said, you will carry your partner on your back up and down this hill ten times, switch and ride for ten times and repeat that cycle five times. "You want us to do what?" Have you lost your mind, there's NO way! He blew the whistle and off we had to go. It was ridiculous....we did it, no clue how, but I also remember the pain right after, but the season after that moment seemed really easy.
This morning in our reading as a church we were asked to read Matthew 5:38-48. WOW! These are really difficult things we are called to do. As I was reading them this morning, I went back to that day, "You want me to do what?" Love my enemy, pray for those who persecute me, don't just love those that love you, but love those who don't love you....then He closes out "But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect." Why such tall orders? We cannot ever be perfect can we? Why does God give us such impossible task? Would love to hear from you today on your thoughts.
Philip Thurman
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Hell no, not the Church!
Strong words, aren't they? Hard to believe you would hear that on this blog. This was a comment that was shot my way when I simply asked a leader in the community about why they never asked a church for help.
About four months ago a hospital in town had a patient that was from Bangladesh (where I grew up) who spoke not ONE word of English. She came in with all types of problems, but they could never fully understand what was going on. They searched a number of places and made calls to inquire if there was any one who might could help interpret. After days of searching they found someone at a local university who could help. When asked if they ever considered calling the church to see if there were missionaries, or common folks who spoke the language, his response was, "hell no, not the church. They don't want to serve anybody but there own." WOW! What a slam to the body of Christ.
In one scripture verse Jesus says, they will know we are His disciples by the love that we have for one another. When did the church loose it's service to the world, community? Why have we become so consumed with our own, or trying to convert the non Christian. What would happen if we simply served out of a grateful heart? Service is on of the greatest ways to grow our faith and belief in God. We get challenged and pushed. It is in those moments that we begin to take on the right focus or attitude. I believe the world would be blown away and ask us why we are serving. It would be in that moment we would be able to share the hope of heaven and they could confidently say, "HELL NO, heaven YES!"
Philip Thurman
About four months ago a hospital in town had a patient that was from Bangladesh (where I grew up) who spoke not ONE word of English. She came in with all types of problems, but they could never fully understand what was going on. They searched a number of places and made calls to inquire if there was any one who might could help interpret. After days of searching they found someone at a local university who could help. When asked if they ever considered calling the church to see if there were missionaries, or common folks who spoke the language, his response was, "hell no, not the church. They don't want to serve anybody but there own." WOW! What a slam to the body of Christ.
In one scripture verse Jesus says, they will know we are His disciples by the love that we have for one another. When did the church loose it's service to the world, community? Why have we become so consumed with our own, or trying to convert the non Christian. What would happen if we simply served out of a grateful heart? Service is on of the greatest ways to grow our faith and belief in God. We get challenged and pushed. It is in those moments that we begin to take on the right focus or attitude. I believe the world would be blown away and ask us why we are serving. It would be in that moment we would be able to share the hope of heaven and they could confidently say, "HELL NO, heaven YES!"
Philip Thurman
Sunday, September 14, 2008
UnWrapped
One of the greatest things to be able to do is brag on our people. LifeBridge has some of the most incredible volunteers. I truly believe with all my heart that they are the best in the county, no in the state. We have folks who constantly serve and go above and beyond the call of duty. Every week we figure it takes 30-45 volunteers to pull off our Sunday Environment. We have youth that serve in some critical areas as well. It is amazing to see our youth giving and giving. In fact, they serve every week. This week I heard about one of our youth volunteers who worked in the nursery. When everyone was gone, she was found staying behind and helping the teacher clean up the room and pack up the box to load onto the trailer. You know who you are.....I really appreciate your servants heart. We do NOT have LifeBridge with out heroes like many of you. After church today, I had a number of folks talk about the need to serve and get out of their comfort zone.
This week you heard about just one servant that said, God I don't have much, but what I have I give to you. I continued the interview to talk about serving, I wanted you to be able to hear the rest of it. Thanks to everyone who serves. You are my heroes.
PLEASE PAUSE THE MUSIC SO YOU CAN HEAR THE BLOG INTERVIEW.
This week you heard about just one servant that said, God I don't have much, but what I have I give to you. I continued the interview to talk about serving, I wanted you to be able to hear the rest of it. Thanks to everyone who serves. You are my heroes.
PLEASE PAUSE THE MUSIC SO YOU CAN HEAR THE BLOG INTERVIEW.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Bottom Rungs
If you grew up in church, think about all the things you did that made church, church! If you did not grow up in church, you have a different and fresh view of church. Sometimes I wish that I could have those eyes, simply for the perspective of knowing what to do or NOT to do. However, I would never trade my upbringing. I loved knowing God all of my life. Anyway. Have you thought of some? You have to join something before you can be a part of making decisions. You can start giving MONEY right away, but we don't want your decisions until you join. WOW! Then we have this insider language. If you are new to church or God, you hear some of the words we use and you are clueless, again NOT your fault, but ours.
This past week I was reading a blog of a church that does NOT have any members. There are those who have Christ and those who are pursuing Christ. Once you accept Christ you become a part of the Family of God. Once you do that, hopefully you will give, serve and do your part for the local church. I love thinking through all the things and thinking about all the rungs we take off the ladder for those outside of a relationship with Christ. Why do we do that? Why do we make it so tough to know and follow Christ? Think about your relationships with the world. What do you do or say that potentially keeps someone from accepting this relationship? Busy schedules, sports activities, job, chores! Do these things keep me from helping someone know Christ? Challenging insights on this Wednesday. Read Acts 15 again. Rock your socks off!
Philip Thurman
This past week I was reading a blog of a church that does NOT have any members. There are those who have Christ and those who are pursuing Christ. Once you accept Christ you become a part of the Family of God. Once you do that, hopefully you will give, serve and do your part for the local church. I love thinking through all the things and thinking about all the rungs we take off the ladder for those outside of a relationship with Christ. Why do we do that? Why do we make it so tough to know and follow Christ? Think about your relationships with the world. What do you do or say that potentially keeps someone from accepting this relationship? Busy schedules, sports activities, job, chores! Do these things keep me from helping someone know Christ? Challenging insights on this Wednesday. Read Acts 15 again. Rock your socks off!
Philip Thurman
Monday, September 8, 2008
What Could You Do?
Check this video out. Pause the play list music so you can hear the video. What could you do?
Benched from Brandon McCormick on Vimeo.
Benched from Brandon McCormick on Vimeo.
Anyone Reading This?
I want to see if anyone is really reading this or NOT. So I'd like to do a brief test....this is a test of the emergency managament..........just kidding. I enjoy being able to connect with you, but don't know if anyone is reading this. Writing is NOT one of my strengths, but I like to try it often. Please shoot me an email at philip@mylifebridge.com and let me know if anyone is reading this or not.
If I get NO replies, I'll probably stop for now.
More later, maybe!
Philip Thurman
If I get NO replies, I'll probably stop for now.
More later, maybe!
Philip Thurman
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
What About The Back Door
A few days ago I was in conversation with two of LifeBridge Staff Team about the back door. If your not familiar with that term, it is the term us religious professionals (haha) us for people that don't stick. They come in and see what your about and then slide through the back door, drop out etc. I have been thinking about this a lot lately, so I began doing some interviewing with some folks about why they dropped away.
We like to think that they are not coming because we're NOT friendly, or the music is not clicking, or the speaker is not bringing it, or our coffee is NOT Fusions, or the kids program stinks. Well, I think all of those things for us are working well. Could they be improved, well sure they can. But does that stuff matter? Sure it does, but think about it. People can go to ITunes and down load the best music available. They can down load for FREE the greatest communicators in the world.....yes world. They can go to Fusions and get the best coffee in town. What would help us close the back door. I'm convinced it is one thing and one thing only.
It is the very thing everyone wants, but is NOT willing to pursue. It is a struggle to make time for it, it cost a ton in emotional energy and we have so little margin in our life. It could make us healthy, but we will choose to be unhealthy as opposed to live in this. This one thing is RELATIONSHIPS. I am convinced that the greatest healer, connector, fullier in Life is the relationship with have with God. I also believe the human relationships are the second greatest. If we could have genuine relationships with people in small groups we would see the back door closing. How do we do this with a culture that is moving so fast or doesn't see the need........? Maybe another blog for another day.
Philip Thurman
We like to think that they are not coming because we're NOT friendly, or the music is not clicking, or the speaker is not bringing it, or our coffee is NOT Fusions, or the kids program stinks. Well, I think all of those things for us are working well. Could they be improved, well sure they can. But does that stuff matter? Sure it does, but think about it. People can go to ITunes and down load the best music available. They can down load for FREE the greatest communicators in the world.....yes world. They can go to Fusions and get the best coffee in town. What would help us close the back door. I'm convinced it is one thing and one thing only.
It is the very thing everyone wants, but is NOT willing to pursue. It is a struggle to make time for it, it cost a ton in emotional energy and we have so little margin in our life. It could make us healthy, but we will choose to be unhealthy as opposed to live in this. This one thing is RELATIONSHIPS. I am convinced that the greatest healer, connector, fullier in Life is the relationship with have with God. I also believe the human relationships are the second greatest. If we could have genuine relationships with people in small groups we would see the back door closing. How do we do this with a culture that is moving so fast or doesn't see the need........? Maybe another blog for another day.
Philip Thurman
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Life Sucks! You gotta read!
I have heard comments lately from people who have evacuated from their homes because of Gustav and said things like, life sucks! This is not fair, why are we always the ones to get slammed? I understand their frustrations to some degree. But I also don't understand it, because the choice is theirs to stay or go. We are going to always have hurricanes and they will come to land and destroy tons of stuff. It is just a fact of life. I truly empathize with our neighbors and friends and am willing to help any way that I can.
But as I think about unfair, I was reading about it this morning. In Acts 16 these two guys Paul and Silas are going from place to place and there is this annoying lady that follows them and saying out loud, these guys on on God's team. They are here making noise.....(my paraphrase) So Paul turns and cast the evil spirit out of her. Her owner is now p oed! His income (she was a fortune teller) is now shot. So what do they do, throw Paul and Silas in jail after they get a beating. NOW THAT IS NOT FAIR! No trial, no attorneys nothing. It's one thing to be thrown in prison for a crime you did, but to be thrown in cause you cast an evil spirit out of someone. How would you like that, stand before the jury and say guilty or NOT Guilty. uh sir or ma'am, I am guilty. What is your crime? Uh casting out an evil spirit.....WHAT? Is that not hilarious! I think so....the Bible is awesome. The rest of the story is incredible, check it out!
Philip Thurman
But as I think about unfair, I was reading about it this morning. In Acts 16 these two guys Paul and Silas are going from place to place and there is this annoying lady that follows them and saying out loud, these guys on on God's team. They are here making noise.....(my paraphrase) So Paul turns and cast the evil spirit out of her. Her owner is now p oed! His income (she was a fortune teller) is now shot. So what do they do, throw Paul and Silas in jail after they get a beating. NOW THAT IS NOT FAIR! No trial, no attorneys nothing. It's one thing to be thrown in prison for a crime you did, but to be thrown in cause you cast an evil spirit out of someone. How would you like that, stand before the jury and say guilty or NOT Guilty. uh sir or ma'am, I am guilty. What is your crime? Uh casting out an evil spirit.....WHAT? Is that not hilarious! I think so....the Bible is awesome. The rest of the story is incredible, check it out!
Philip Thurman
Sunday, August 31, 2008
My Prayer
As I have been preparing this week and the news of the hurricane coming, all I could think to do was to pray instead of being overwhelmed. So below is an excerpt of my prayer from my journal.
Well, we're all bracing for what Hurricane Gustav will decide to do. Right now things are projecting just west of New Orleans. Our local shelters are starting to fill up with people moving north. It is times like this that we many times get to experience the goodness of mankind. I hope we will show kindness to many who may be displayed over the next few days and weeks.
Those of us who are at home in the safety and comfort of our own homes should find time to serve and encourage those who are away from their safe place. Find time to serve, encourage and love on someone who may need it this week. Don't listen to the twist that our enemy will try and whisper in to your ears such as "you can't do that, you don't have anything, don't smile, your inconvenienced as well...etc etc." Take some time this week to bless others who are being displaced.
May they see Jesus in your kind actions. This is my prayer for all of us these next few weeks.
Philip Thurman
Well, we're all bracing for what Hurricane Gustav will decide to do. Right now things are projecting just west of New Orleans. Our local shelters are starting to fill up with people moving north. It is times like this that we many times get to experience the goodness of mankind. I hope we will show kindness to many who may be displayed over the next few days and weeks.
Those of us who are at home in the safety and comfort of our own homes should find time to serve and encourage those who are away from their safe place. Find time to serve, encourage and love on someone who may need it this week. Don't listen to the twist that our enemy will try and whisper in to your ears such as "you can't do that, you don't have anything, don't smile, your inconvenienced as well...etc etc." Take some time this week to bless others who are being displaced.
May they see Jesus in your kind actions. This is my prayer for all of us these next few weeks.
Philip Thurman
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
No Food or Drink For Three Days
Stop and think about that for a moment. Three days with NO food. I don't know about you, but I wake up thinking about food and while I am eating breakfast, I'm thinking about where I will be eating lunch, etc. So to go three days with NO food or drink just blows me away. I cannot imagine anyone doing that unless it is some type of fast. In this case, it was NOT a fast that we know off.
What am I talking about? Two days ago I was reading in Acts 9:9. The story is the conversion of Saul. He is traveling down a road and is blinded by a light and is told to go to a city and someone will help him there. So he goes and for three days he sees nothing, eats and rinks nothing. What is that about. I wonder if that was his desire, or God's desire. I wonder if he was so in awe of God that he lost track of time or that all he could do was think about his life that he couldn't eat. I don't have a clue, but it caused me to pause and think....how'd he do that? I believe it was God sustaining him completely.
I'd love to get to that point that I did not have to worry about eating and drinking, but that I would fully rely upon God to be my provision. I want that type of faith.
Philip Thurman
What am I talking about? Two days ago I was reading in Acts 9:9. The story is the conversion of Saul. He is traveling down a road and is blinded by a light and is told to go to a city and someone will help him there. So he goes and for three days he sees nothing, eats and rinks nothing. What is that about. I wonder if that was his desire, or God's desire. I wonder if he was so in awe of God that he lost track of time or that all he could do was think about his life that he couldn't eat. I don't have a clue, but it caused me to pause and think....how'd he do that? I believe it was God sustaining him completely.
I'd love to get to that point that I did not have to worry about eating and drinking, but that I would fully rely upon God to be my provision. I want that type of faith.
Philip Thurman
Monday, August 25, 2008
Olympic Fever
Have you caught yourself staying up late at night watching the Olympics and wondering if another American Team will be able to win Gold or Silver? Have you ever seen yourself getting so excited about a sand volleyball game, badminton, wrestling or some of those less popular sports. Man, I have been glued and found myself cheering for sports and peoples stories that I would have never done.
The real stud to me is NOT the decathlon dude, although he is a stud. My man has to be the marathon dude. 26.2 miles wide open and the guy doesn't even act like he's winded. My heart was breathing harder for him than his was. What's that all about? Then last night I caught myself NOT wanting to miss a single moment of the closing ceremonies. WOW! Drummers hanging upside down and still playing, guys running up the side of a metal wall...did you see that? It was spectacular. China did a great job, but the last time I checked, their still under Communist leadership. WHAT?!
I guess the greatest truth was the closing comments by Bob Costas, btw, did he die his hair? Something looked different. Anyway, he said something to the effective of, "isn't it amazing how these two weeks the WORLD comes together as one. All differences are laid aside for the competition and recognition of an athlete." We are able for two weeks to put aside all that separates us and come together as one world to celebrate all that is good through Sports. WOW! Sports can unify the world. Stop and let that soak in. What would happen if people understood the Gospel and all it could do for them? How could that power change the world?
Today, let God speak through your life. The Olympics are over for four more years (At least the summer Olympics) but your story can just begin.
Philip Thurman
The real stud to me is NOT the decathlon dude, although he is a stud. My man has to be the marathon dude. 26.2 miles wide open and the guy doesn't even act like he's winded. My heart was breathing harder for him than his was. What's that all about? Then last night I caught myself NOT wanting to miss a single moment of the closing ceremonies. WOW! Drummers hanging upside down and still playing, guys running up the side of a metal wall...did you see that? It was spectacular. China did a great job, but the last time I checked, their still under Communist leadership. WHAT?!
I guess the greatest truth was the closing comments by Bob Costas, btw, did he die his hair? Something looked different. Anyway, he said something to the effective of, "isn't it amazing how these two weeks the WORLD comes together as one. All differences are laid aside for the competition and recognition of an athlete." We are able for two weeks to put aside all that separates us and come together as one world to celebrate all that is good through Sports. WOW! Sports can unify the world. Stop and let that soak in. What would happen if people understood the Gospel and all it could do for them? How could that power change the world?
Today, let God speak through your life. The Olympics are over for four more years (At least the summer Olympics) but your story can just begin.
Philip Thurman
Friday, August 22, 2008
Project 1:8 is Rolling
I don't know if you have caught wind or not, but Project 1:8 is starting to gain some momentum. We have had a number of incredible outings that have created a buzz around town. I like what God is challenging and doing through each of you in this area.
P1:8 Madison served a few weeks back an incredible meal to the Madison Fire Department. They were blown away. Then a few weeks back when school started they were out by at the school handed out "Twisted" h20 to folks. It was incredible. We also had four folks helping with the parking and traffic flow.
P1:8 Canton is rockin! They had a school supply drive that ended up incredibly well. Last night a number of folks were at the Canton School for open house. Largest crowd they have had there in a long time. The team served food and did door prizes. Incredible job with Trinity Church.
P1:8 Homestead is making some contacts and working on future plans. Should have some ideas and thoughts very soon. Michelle is fired up about the direction of this team.
Last but NOT least P1:8 Haiti. Jim, Tracey and Kelly got back a week or so ago and are ready to go again. The stories of their trips have been amazing. Can't wait to see when and what happens there. Keep making a difference!
Finally, this weekend has a chance to be huge. Get there early. We have about 50-80 college athletes that are going to be in worship along with the usual big crowd. It's going to be an awesome day. Can't wait to hang out with you all
Philip Thurman
P1:8 Madison served a few weeks back an incredible meal to the Madison Fire Department. They were blown away. Then a few weeks back when school started they were out by at the school handed out "Twisted" h20 to folks. It was incredible. We also had four folks helping with the parking and traffic flow.
P1:8 Canton is rockin! They had a school supply drive that ended up incredibly well. Last night a number of folks were at the Canton School for open house. Largest crowd they have had there in a long time. The team served food and did door prizes. Incredible job with Trinity Church.
P1:8 Homestead is making some contacts and working on future plans. Should have some ideas and thoughts very soon. Michelle is fired up about the direction of this team.
Last but NOT least P1:8 Haiti. Jim, Tracey and Kelly got back a week or so ago and are ready to go again. The stories of their trips have been amazing. Can't wait to see when and what happens there. Keep making a difference!
Finally, this weekend has a chance to be huge. Get there early. We have about 50-80 college athletes that are going to be in worship along with the usual big crowd. It's going to be an awesome day. Can't wait to hang out with you all
Philip Thurman
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Greatest Volunteers Around
I know that I am prejudice, but I know we have the greatest volunteers around. I witnessed some of the coolest things happening this morning. As always the set up team is there on time ready to go and knocking it down. In less than 45 minutes they were done and walking out the door! WOW! The band, man, they sounded awesome as well. They come and practice and get everything ready.
Then at 9 I look up and our Children's team is throwing a party for their volunteers. Volunteer leaders throwing a party for their volunteers. How incredible is that? Then about 9:15 a room full of smiling and happy volunteers were there receiving thanks, food and then a bag that on the outside had Godiva Chocolate. That some serious stuff:) Then walked through the preschool and Nursery area and saw two guys working with a room full of four year old boys! They were having a blast.
Walked to the front of the school and the greeters were smiling and talking to everyone coming in the door. The building was smelling like coffee. I don't even like coffee, but it was smelling awesome. There was food on the back table that looked delicious. The sound was working awesome and the new video cable worked without a glitche.
MAN I LOVE THIS PLACE! If I wasn't the Pastor, I'd still go to this church. Then tear down.....flew by. Unbelievable is all I know to say. Thanks to everyone who serves and gives, but also Invest and Invite. I love you all!
Philip Thurman
Then at 9 I look up and our Children's team is throwing a party for their volunteers. Volunteer leaders throwing a party for their volunteers. How incredible is that? Then about 9:15 a room full of smiling and happy volunteers were there receiving thanks, food and then a bag that on the outside had Godiva Chocolate. That some serious stuff:) Then walked through the preschool and Nursery area and saw two guys working with a room full of four year old boys! They were having a blast.
Walked to the front of the school and the greeters were smiling and talking to everyone coming in the door. The building was smelling like coffee. I don't even like coffee, but it was smelling awesome. There was food on the back table that looked delicious. The sound was working awesome and the new video cable worked without a glitche.
MAN I LOVE THIS PLACE! If I wasn't the Pastor, I'd still go to this church. Then tear down.....flew by. Unbelievable is all I know to say. Thanks to everyone who serves and gives, but also Invest and Invite. I love you all!
Philip Thurman
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Sunday's Scribbles
This has been another great day. School is back in session and everyone is back from all of their summer travels. Great to catch up on all the happenings of the last few months. Also, this past week we experienced many returning friends who had been gone for some time. Wow, love this time of the year.
Our Project 1:8 (Madison Team) handed out 500 or so bottles of water at Madison Station on parent preview night. Also Tommy, Van and Paul helped park some 2000 plus vehicles. Great job everyone.
Twisted started today with a bang, or so I felt. Open with the simple truth that we have an enemy that comes to steal, kill and destroy us, but God desires to give us a great life. Next week we will be looking at the twist satan puts on marriage and relationships. Hope you will connect over the next few weeks. Then we will begin focusing and celebrating our five year existence. WOW! God has allowed us to be around that long and we hope to see a ton more years if God so wishes.
Thanks to many of you who continue to "invest and invite." Today, one family introduced me to two guest families that they had invited and they showed up and seemed to have a blast. I love hanging with these types of folks who love what LifeBridge is all about. They take the risk and their friends respond. Man, keep it up.
Jim, Tracey and Kelly get back from Haiti this week. Excited to hear what LifeBridge can do in Haiti. Wow! Tons going on.
Have a great week.
Philip Thurman
Our Project 1:8 (Madison Team) handed out 500 or so bottles of water at Madison Station on parent preview night. Also Tommy, Van and Paul helped park some 2000 plus vehicles. Great job everyone.
Twisted started today with a bang, or so I felt. Open with the simple truth that we have an enemy that comes to steal, kill and destroy us, but God desires to give us a great life. Next week we will be looking at the twist satan puts on marriage and relationships. Hope you will connect over the next few weeks. Then we will begin focusing and celebrating our five year existence. WOW! God has allowed us to be around that long and we hope to see a ton more years if God so wishes.
Thanks to many of you who continue to "invest and invite." Today, one family introduced me to two guest families that they had invited and they showed up and seemed to have a blast. I love hanging with these types of folks who love what LifeBridge is all about. They take the risk and their friends respond. Man, keep it up.
Jim, Tracey and Kelly get back from Haiti this week. Excited to hear what LifeBridge can do in Haiti. Wow! Tons going on.
Have a great week.
Philip Thurman
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Eight...yes Count it Out. EIGHT!
What an amazing morning. I woke up pumped about today and even after the fact, I'm still pumped. Satan did everything he could do to try and NOT make the day work, but it still came off. Not it wasn't as shiny and pretty as we would have like it, but it happened and it rocked. The youth shared with the church about their summer camp experience "Broadcast." Then we saw eight students get baptized. Well we only saw seven, but Friday night we had one guy get baptized, so a total of eight this weekend. If I am not mistaken, largest baptism ever. It was awesome.
Thanks to everyone who worked to make it awesome. Davis, thanks for your hard work to make this weekend happen.
Thanks to everyone who worked to make it awesome. Davis, thanks for your hard work to make this weekend happen.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Friday's Five
I know, I am on vacation, but I have so much to post, but will only list five.
1) Can you believe the kids go back to school next week. It is both good and bad. This means that we go back to full set up and tear down mode. It also means that life gets back to some sense of normal, whatever Normal is.
2) Jim, Tracey and Kelly leave SUnday for a preview trip to Haiti. They will come back all jazzed about our P1:8 opportunities in Haiti. By the way, our teams are starting to get busy with awesome chances for you to get connected and serving. Be at church Sunday to see what else is happening.
3) I've missed LifeBridge. Ready to get back in the groove. You guys are a special group of folks. I do not like missing my time with you all. You are really encouraging and awesome inviters. We have had an incredible summer. If the fall is anything like the summer, look out. We may be needing to find more chairs. Great problem to have, many people would love to be where we are. Let's keep pushing and doing this for God's fame.
4) I'm ready to get back and hang out with the staff team. I am able to serve alongside the greatest leaders I have ever been around. If you don't know them, I challenge you to invite them to lunch after church and get to know them. Some of the most talented folks around. (Davis Jones, John Chappelear, Johnny Ervin, Greg Miller, Scott Little, and then we have a million (okay a brief exaggeration) volunteers. You all are the best.
5) Baptism is this Sunday. This is the coolest service. We get to hear our young folks talk about their camp experience and then follow Christ in Baptism. Proud of you guys.....keep challenging us old folks to follow Christ.
See you Sunday
Philip Thurman
1) Can you believe the kids go back to school next week. It is both good and bad. This means that we go back to full set up and tear down mode. It also means that life gets back to some sense of normal, whatever Normal is.
2) Jim, Tracey and Kelly leave SUnday for a preview trip to Haiti. They will come back all jazzed about our P1:8 opportunities in Haiti. By the way, our teams are starting to get busy with awesome chances for you to get connected and serving. Be at church Sunday to see what else is happening.
3) I've missed LifeBridge. Ready to get back in the groove. You guys are a special group of folks. I do not like missing my time with you all. You are really encouraging and awesome inviters. We have had an incredible summer. If the fall is anything like the summer, look out. We may be needing to find more chairs. Great problem to have, many people would love to be where we are. Let's keep pushing and doing this for God's fame.
4) I'm ready to get back and hang out with the staff team. I am able to serve alongside the greatest leaders I have ever been around. If you don't know them, I challenge you to invite them to lunch after church and get to know them. Some of the most talented folks around. (Davis Jones, John Chappelear, Johnny Ervin, Greg Miller, Scott Little, and then we have a million (okay a brief exaggeration) volunteers. You all are the best.
5) Baptism is this Sunday. This is the coolest service. We get to hear our young folks talk about their camp experience and then follow Christ in Baptism. Proud of you guys.....keep challenging us old folks to follow Christ.
See you Sunday
Philip Thurman
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