“I want the members of Congress to understand ... that the solution to America’s serious moral and spiritual problem is not political. We’re in need of a religious awakening.” Jerry Falwell
In recognition of Jerry Falwell's passing today, I found this quote that I thought was very appropriate. I'd hardly be a "Falwell Fan" but I remember my aunt and uncle watching him on TV on Sunday afternoons when I would spend the summer with them. I have vague recollections of him starting a university and I remember him telling the story of climbing a hill outside of Lynchburg, Virginia and praying that God would give him favor to minister effectively within the city. I've done that in every place that I pastored because it just seemed to be the right thing to do.
In terms of the quote, with one slight modification, I'd agree with what Falwell had to say in this particular case. I don't agree that we need a religious awakening, I think we need a spiritual awakening that connects people to the presence and power of God in a meaningful and personal way so that the Prince of Peace can rule in their hearts and lives regardless of their social status, net worth or political affiliation. Political parties and ideologies have their place, but no single party has the entire answer to the social, economic and corporate challenges of leadership in this day. The answer is not within ourselves, but outside of us. It's bigger than us and better than anything we could create within ourselves. It seems to me that the Creator must have the answers to the issues faced by the creation and that's why we need to reconnect with Him in a meaningful way.
Tim
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Sunday, May 06, 2007
National Prayer Event
From the Victoria Times Colonist May 6/07
OTTAWA -- It's a Parliament Hill event that attracts hundreds of people every year and almost no publicity. Many participants want to keep it that way.
Scores of MPs and former MPs were among the more than 600 diplomats, priests, pastors, teachers and students from across Canada who flocked to three meeting rooms on the hill this week to attend the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a non-denominational Christian affair marking its 42nd year. But this was not piety on parade. Nor was it the religious right trying to flex its muscles.
Retiring NDP Bill Blaikie, a United Church minister, plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa: "[The prayer breakfast] hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit."
In Canada, politicians tend not to wear their religious beliefs on their sleeve, and the yearly gathering reflects that reticence. Participants say they are glad the event is more low-profile and less political than the one held in Washington, D.C., for the last 55 years. That gathering, which now attracts thousands of people, has almost always starred the U.S. president of the day.
NDP MP Bill Blaikie says organizers of the Canadian event have got it right.
"It hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit," said the retiring MP, a United Church minister who plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa. Beyond the breakfast, though, Blaikie says he's frustrated by a seeming taboo on talking about the role of faith in politics. "Politics tries to operate as if that elephant isn't in the room," said Blaikie, who was first elected in 1979.
"So a lot is missed as to why people do things the way they do and why they believe what they do." Blaikie also says he's growing impatient with a stereotyping of Christians that focuses on the Christian right and forgets the Christian left. "It's partly because Christians on the left over time have developed a way of speaking that isn't always explicit about where they are coming from." Left-wing Christians need to let it be known "there's more than one way politically to be a Christian in the world."
Liberal MP Karen Redman, a Presbyterian and former chairwoman of the prayer gathering, says the breakfast is a chance to celebrate her Christianity in a respectful, nonpartisan environment without getting dragged down by debates over such contentious issues as abortion and gay marriage that divide people of faith. She says, however, she sometime fears her religion is getting "wrestled away from me" because of assumptions made about people who identify themselves as Christian. "When people ask, are you Christian, you say to yourself, 'Now, where is that coming from?' "The right and true answer is 'Yes, I am a Christian,' but don't assume I'm against gay marriage, against women's right to choose. Don't visit this whole spectrum of decisions automatically on me because I say, 'Yes, I am a Christian."
This week's gathering over fruit, muffins and coffee was clearly a comfortable forum for Christians of all political stripes. "Our breakfast flies below the radar of social issues," said chief organizer Jack Murta, a former cabinet minister in the Progressive Conservative government of Brian Mulroney.
Unlike their U.S. counterparts, Canada's elected officials don't make religion political.
"The prayer breakfast is not about political parties. It is not about who is right and who is wrong."
Representatives from each party made appearances on the podium, but their remarks were limited to reading from scripture. The only party leader on hand was the NDP's Jack Layton.
The politics-free event is not, however, to everyone's liking.
Charles McVety, president of Canada Christian College in Toronto and an outspoken player on the religious right wing, says he gave the prayer breakfast a pass this year in part because it's not political enough. He says he prefers to use his trips to Ottawa to directly lobby MPs on specific issues.
"[The breakfast] has traditionally been very non-political," said McVety, who, as head of the Defend Marriage Coalition, led a campaign in the last federal election to elect evangelical candidates opposed to same-sex marriage.
"I'm not belittling the power of prayer, but faith without works is dead."
Bruce Clemenger, president of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, said the breakfast is a quiet celebration of faith that has never been seen as a lobbying opportunity. But, like Blaikie, he says there should be more open discussion about the role faith plays in politics.
OTTAWA -- It's a Parliament Hill event that attracts hundreds of people every year and almost no publicity. Many participants want to keep it that way.
Scores of MPs and former MPs were among the more than 600 diplomats, priests, pastors, teachers and students from across Canada who flocked to three meeting rooms on the hill this week to attend the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a non-denominational Christian affair marking its 42nd year. But this was not piety on parade. Nor was it the religious right trying to flex its muscles.
Retiring NDP Bill Blaikie, a United Church minister, plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa: "[The prayer breakfast] hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit."
In Canada, politicians tend not to wear their religious beliefs on their sleeve, and the yearly gathering reflects that reticence. Participants say they are glad the event is more low-profile and less political than the one held in Washington, D.C., for the last 55 years. That gathering, which now attracts thousands of people, has almost always starred the U.S. president of the day.
NDP MP Bill Blaikie says organizers of the Canadian event have got it right.
"It hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit," said the retiring MP, a United Church minister who plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa. Beyond the breakfast, though, Blaikie says he's frustrated by a seeming taboo on talking about the role of faith in politics. "Politics tries to operate as if that elephant isn't in the room," said Blaikie, who was first elected in 1979.
"So a lot is missed as to why people do things the way they do and why they believe what they do." Blaikie also says he's growing impatient with a stereotyping of Christians that focuses on the Christian right and forgets the Christian left. "It's partly because Christians on the left over time have developed a way of speaking that isn't always explicit about where they are coming from." Left-wing Christians need to let it be known "there's more than one way politically to be a Christian in the world."
Liberal MP Karen Redman, a Presbyterian and former chairwoman of the prayer gathering, says the breakfast is a chance to celebrate her Christianity in a respectful, nonpartisan environment without getting dragged down by debates over such contentious issues as abortion and gay marriage that divide people of faith. She says, however, she sometime fears her religion is getting "wrestled away from me" because of assumptions made about people who identify themselves as Christian. "When people ask, are you Christian, you say to yourself, 'Now, where is that coming from?' "The right and true answer is 'Yes, I am a Christian,' but don't assume I'm against gay marriage, against women's right to choose. Don't visit this whole spectrum of decisions automatically on me because I say, 'Yes, I am a Christian."
This week's gathering over fruit, muffins and coffee was clearly a comfortable forum for Christians of all political stripes. "Our breakfast flies below the radar of social issues," said chief organizer Jack Murta, a former cabinet minister in the Progressive Conservative government of Brian Mulroney.
Unlike their U.S. counterparts, Canada's elected officials don't make religion political.
"The prayer breakfast is not about political parties. It is not about who is right and who is wrong."
Representatives from each party made appearances on the podium, but their remarks were limited to reading from scripture. The only party leader on hand was the NDP's Jack Layton.
The politics-free event is not, however, to everyone's liking.
Charles McVety, president of Canada Christian College in Toronto and an outspoken player on the religious right wing, says he gave the prayer breakfast a pass this year in part because it's not political enough. He says he prefers to use his trips to Ottawa to directly lobby MPs on specific issues.
"[The breakfast] has traditionally been very non-political," said McVety, who, as head of the Defend Marriage Coalition, led a campaign in the last federal election to elect evangelical candidates opposed to same-sex marriage.
"I'm not belittling the power of prayer, but faith without works is dead."
Bruce Clemenger, president of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, said the breakfast is a quiet celebration of faith that has never been seen as a lobbying opportunity. But, like Blaikie, he says there should be more open discussion about the role faith plays in politics.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Prayer Breakfast Pictures
Here are some pictures from our recent prayer breakfast. I've even included some "food shots" for those of you that want to see what breakfast looked like ...
Mary Jane Smith (left) and Donna Pechie. This breakfast would NOT have happened without their help and support. They were the administrative and logistical team that pulled it together.
Pastor Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist), Pastors Dan and Susan MacLean (Victoria Miracle Centre) and Ione Robinson. These are friends and partners who came to join us for the day.
Rev. David Wells, District Supt, BC PAOC brought greetings and formally blessed us and the ministry. Dave has been a long time friend and encourger to both Barb and I.
Susan Uganecz (ministry partner) and the obligatory "food shot".
As you can see, breakfast was great!
The Honorable Kevin Kreuger, Minister of State for Mining and the lovely Barb Schindel. Barb is my wife, Kevin is my MLA and no... we don't want to confuse that....
We had a total of 9 MLA's with us for the morning and the opportunity to connect with many of them since the breakfast has been fantastic. I'm hoping to return to Victoria sometime in the next few weeks to attend the legislature again before the session concludes. I've decided to purchase a clerical collar to wear while I'm there. Can't wait to see what that's going to look like. I'll post a picture on a day when things are slow here.
Have a good one!!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Prayer Breakfast Report
What a day this has been! We were up early and were on our way to the Union Club at 6:15. Victoria is beautiful any time of day, but we actually smelled the flowers as we walked past the Empress. Our team was in place and ready to go when we got there. (Such an incredible group of people.)
We had a great morning! We had 9 MLA's attend and they were very moved by the breakfast. Dave Hauser (Board Member and Uncle) Emceed the event and did an exceptional job. Tom Oshiro (a pastoral legend in Victoria, said grace and encouraged us). We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast provided by the Union Club. David Wells brought greetings from the PAOC District Conference, Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist) brought greetings on behalf of the Church in Victoria and then Wally Berndt introduced me.
It's kind of strange speaking at your own event, but the room was filled with friends and partners so it was pretty amazing. Pastor Andrew Picklyk prayed for the MLA's ( I love my pastor and will miss him when we move!) It was powerful and there weren't many dry eyes among the MLA's. It was so amazing.
There are several significant things pending coming out of this meeting. We continue to have favor among the MLA's but there is a huge (and exciting) opportunity coming out of this morning that may propel us beyond anything that we had expected thus far. It reminds me of Eph 3:20 (He who is able to do exceedingly above all that we are able to think or ask or imagine...) That's what we are seeing in this journey. God is doing far more, far faster than we ever dreamed possible. It's incredible to say the least.
God was very real and present this morning. We knew his presence and Spirit among us and upon us. We found out that 3 intercessors were on "Jericho duty" walking the sidewalks around the Union Club and praying for us and the MLA's. How cool is that! God is good!!
I'll post some pictures ASAP so you can see what it looked like!!
Tim
We had a great morning! We had 9 MLA's attend and they were very moved by the breakfast. Dave Hauser (Board Member and Uncle) Emceed the event and did an exceptional job. Tom Oshiro (a pastoral legend in Victoria, said grace and encouraged us). We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast provided by the Union Club. David Wells brought greetings from the PAOC District Conference, Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist) brought greetings on behalf of the Church in Victoria and then Wally Berndt introduced me.
It's kind of strange speaking at your own event, but the room was filled with friends and partners so it was pretty amazing. Pastor Andrew Picklyk prayed for the MLA's ( I love my pastor and will miss him when we move!) It was powerful and there weren't many dry eyes among the MLA's. It was so amazing.
There are several significant things pending coming out of this meeting. We continue to have favor among the MLA's but there is a huge (and exciting) opportunity coming out of this morning that may propel us beyond anything that we had expected thus far. It reminds me of Eph 3:20 (He who is able to do exceedingly above all that we are able to think or ask or imagine...) That's what we are seeing in this journey. God is doing far more, far faster than we ever dreamed possible. It's incredible to say the least.
God was very real and present this morning. We knew his presence and Spirit among us and upon us. We found out that 3 intercessors were on "Jericho duty" walking the sidewalks around the Union Club and praying for us and the MLA's. How cool is that! God is good!!
I'll post some pictures ASAP so you can see what it looked like!!
Tim
Monday, April 30, 2007
Twas the Night Before the Breakfast
It's the night before the big day and we are in our hotel room winding down for the night. Barb is doing some reading while I finished off my talk for tomorrow. She hasn't turned a page in about 20 minutes and I'm pretty sure her eyes are closed. I'll ask her how the book was later...
I am nearly ready. There's nothing left to do now but have a good sleep so that we are well rested for an exciting day tomorrow. We are completely full and even have a waiting list which is kind of cool, except if you are on the list! The miracles that continue to happen here are amazing. We've gone to 11 MLA's for the morning which speaks of the favor that God has placed on us. We have been so blessed!
We had a great day today. Barb came with me to the Legislature for the first time. We were introduced to the house and made to "feel welcome". While we were there, we got a voicemail from our hotel saying that an anonymous person had paid for a second night for us so that we wouldn't have to move out in the morning. THANKS, WHOEVER YOU ARE!!
I spent the afternoon with a friend who is a real champion for the ministry. His church, Glad Tidings Church in Armstrong, BC is actually praying for 48 hours straight for our breakfast tomorrow. What an incredible bunch of people! We went to Question Period today. He'd never been there before so it's always very interesting (and sometimes entertaining) as it was today.
While we were doing that, Barb went shopping and got some new clothes for tomorrow. I'm getting kind of groggy now, so I'm heading off to bed. I'll tell you all about tomorrow, tomorrow!
Have a good one!
Tim
I am nearly ready. There's nothing left to do now but have a good sleep so that we are well rested for an exciting day tomorrow. We are completely full and even have a waiting list which is kind of cool, except if you are on the list! The miracles that continue to happen here are amazing. We've gone to 11 MLA's for the morning which speaks of the favor that God has placed on us. We have been so blessed!
We had a great day today. Barb came with me to the Legislature for the first time. We were introduced to the house and made to "feel welcome". While we were there, we got a voicemail from our hotel saying that an anonymous person had paid for a second night for us so that we wouldn't have to move out in the morning. THANKS, WHOEVER YOU ARE!!
I spent the afternoon with a friend who is a real champion for the ministry. His church, Glad Tidings Church in Armstrong, BC is actually praying for 48 hours straight for our breakfast tomorrow. What an incredible bunch of people! We went to Question Period today. He'd never been there before so it's always very interesting (and sometimes entertaining) as it was today.
While we were doing that, Barb went shopping and got some new clothes for tomorrow. I'm getting kind of groggy now, so I'm heading off to bed. I'll tell you all about tomorrow, tomorrow!
Have a good one!
Tim
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Prayer Breakfast Update
What an amazing day as we watched our MLA response double from 5-10 in about an hour today. The breakfast is scheduled for Tuesday morning at 7:00 AM at the Union Club in Victoria.
This entire event has been an entire series of miracles as God has pushed open doors, made provision and expanded our territory. He is AWESOME!!
I'm thrilled to have an equal number of NDP and Liberal MLA's with us on that day as we need God's favor on both sides of the house. He has made a way and will continue to do so.
We need a few more things to happen so please pray with us that the KING OF KINGS will arrange the final details. Our primary concern right now is that we will have a pastor from each riding represented there that morning. This was one of our goals when we started this adventure and we are about 4 pastors short of achieving that goal. Finally, pray that the morning will be marked with God's presence and power. Unless the Lord builds this house, we labor in vain and unless HIS presence goes before us, we will only have a good event.
Thanks for believing in us and with us! What an amazing ride!
Tim
This entire event has been an entire series of miracles as God has pushed open doors, made provision and expanded our territory. He is AWESOME!!
I'm thrilled to have an equal number of NDP and Liberal MLA's with us on that day as we need God's favor on both sides of the house. He has made a way and will continue to do so.
We need a few more things to happen so please pray with us that the KING OF KINGS will arrange the final details. Our primary concern right now is that we will have a pastor from each riding represented there that morning. This was one of our goals when we started this adventure and we are about 4 pastors short of achieving that goal. Finally, pray that the morning will be marked with God's presence and power. Unless the Lord builds this house, we labor in vain and unless HIS presence goes before us, we will only have a good event.
Thanks for believing in us and with us! What an amazing ride!
Tim
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Wool Socks and Sandals
I saw the most amazing thing the other day. A man was wearing wool socks and sandals. You have to wonder what goes on in the mind of a man who thinks that this is a fashion fit. Wool socks are for winter. Sandals are for summer. They should never be seen or worn together. Wool socks are itchy. Sandals are smooth. Think about this for a minute. If it's cold enough to wear wool socks, it's not warm enough to wear sandals. If it's a good day for sandals, it's a bad day for socks of any kind, especially wool ones!
Well, my rant is done. What fashion faux paux's have you seen lately?
Tim
Well, my rant is done. What fashion faux paux's have you seen lately?
Tim
Friday, April 20, 2007
Time Flies
Gasp... after nearly two weeks, I am back to my blog. Even my mom hinted that it was time for a new post so here goes...
Things have been a blur here as we get our house ready to sell. Things are starting to look pretty good with only a few jobs (some larger than others...) remaining to be done. Since I last wrote, we have installed new carpet which was very overdue but really makes the house look great, painted 3 bedrooms, a hallway, bathroom cabinets and touch ups on the kitchen ones as well. Barb is becoming chief painter and is doing an excellent job.
Oh yeah... we also re-arranged our house and what was our bedroom is now the office/studio and what was the boys room has become the master bedroom again. Changing carpet is as much work as moving as everything needs to be removed and then set up again.
In addition, the boys have started baseball which is taking another 8 hours plus/week. So... it's been busy but exciting as we get ready for our next steps.
Speaking of next steps, here's what's happening...
1. Our MLA Prayer Breakfast is happening fast. We continue to receive positive responses and I'm excited about that. I would love to have every MLA there, but I'm not about to despise small beginnings either. I really applaud my board and others who believed in this when it was just a dream. We are still a long ways from being where we want it to be, but we are on our way. Blessed are the believers!
2. Our house will go on the market in the next few weeks. I think we'll have some "out of province" painters come in to help us finish a few jobs, but we are well on our way. It's funny how you live with all the things you don't like and then change them when it's time to sell.
3. I'll be in Victoria for a few days at the end of the month for some speaking engagements, our pastors conference and the MLA breakfast. It will be a busy week for sure.
This is a high pressure period of our lives and we really need our friends and partners to be praying for us as we move forward. There are a lot of big decisions to be made and making the right choices, steps and decisions is more important than ever. Please pray for us as we move forward.
Tim
Things have been a blur here as we get our house ready to sell. Things are starting to look pretty good with only a few jobs (some larger than others...) remaining to be done. Since I last wrote, we have installed new carpet which was very overdue but really makes the house look great, painted 3 bedrooms, a hallway, bathroom cabinets and touch ups on the kitchen ones as well. Barb is becoming chief painter and is doing an excellent job.
Oh yeah... we also re-arranged our house and what was our bedroom is now the office/studio and what was the boys room has become the master bedroom again. Changing carpet is as much work as moving as everything needs to be removed and then set up again.
In addition, the boys have started baseball which is taking another 8 hours plus/week. So... it's been busy but exciting as we get ready for our next steps.
Speaking of next steps, here's what's happening...
1. Our MLA Prayer Breakfast is happening fast. We continue to receive positive responses and I'm excited about that. I would love to have every MLA there, but I'm not about to despise small beginnings either. I really applaud my board and others who believed in this when it was just a dream. We are still a long ways from being where we want it to be, but we are on our way. Blessed are the believers!
2. Our house will go on the market in the next few weeks. I think we'll have some "out of province" painters come in to help us finish a few jobs, but we are well on our way. It's funny how you live with all the things you don't like and then change them when it's time to sell.
3. I'll be in Victoria for a few days at the end of the month for some speaking engagements, our pastors conference and the MLA breakfast. It will be a busy week for sure.
This is a high pressure period of our lives and we really need our friends and partners to be praying for us as we move forward. There are a lot of big decisions to be made and making the right choices, steps and decisions is more important than ever. Please pray for us as we move forward.
Tim
Monday, April 09, 2007
"LARGE... and IN CHARGE"
We spent Easter in Victoria and visited our former church. (that will also be our home church after we move there this summer.) It was fantastic to see many old friends and some new ones over the weekend. One of the purposes for our trip was to go house-hunting and once again real estate prices in Victoria loom as a large mountain for me. (I'd say us, but Barb has handled this much better than I have...)
The temptation for me is to give into the questions of "how can we make this work?", which lead to anxiety, which leads to stress, which leads to fear and ranting. (Sometimes ranting and fear, but you get the general idea.) All of this in spite of the promises that we have been given and the many confirmations of God's hand in and on this ministry. A friend shared this with me a few years ago, but it bears repeating, if for no other reason than I need to hear it, speak it and process it again. My friend's advice came in the form of a definition for fear. FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. Now I have to confess that I've preached that before, used it before and thought I understood it, but the reality is that I have never stared at a mountain that has been quite this big and intimidating before. This is no longer something far off in the distance. This is only months away and requires a miracle. And so I am faced with a choice. I can either go back to living small, believing small and receiving small, or I can put it all on the line and go for it because there's nothing as exhilarating as walking on water.
Here's what I know to be true:
1. He will provide a home for us.
2. He will provide resources for us.
3. He is NOT STRESSED about any of this and already has the key to our house in His hand.
Therefore - though Real Estate prices in Victoria may soar and spike, I will not fear for the Lord my God is my SHELTER and PROVIDER. THIS MOUNTAIN SHALL BE MOVED BY FAITH THE SIZE OF A MUSTARD SEED.
There - I feel better!! Hope this encourages you too.
The temptation for me is to give into the questions of "how can we make this work?", which lead to anxiety, which leads to stress, which leads to fear and ranting. (Sometimes ranting and fear, but you get the general idea.) All of this in spite of the promises that we have been given and the many confirmations of God's hand in and on this ministry. A friend shared this with me a few years ago, but it bears repeating, if for no other reason than I need to hear it, speak it and process it again. My friend's advice came in the form of a definition for fear. FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. Now I have to confess that I've preached that before, used it before and thought I understood it, but the reality is that I have never stared at a mountain that has been quite this big and intimidating before. This is no longer something far off in the distance. This is only months away and requires a miracle. And so I am faced with a choice. I can either go back to living small, believing small and receiving small, or I can put it all on the line and go for it because there's nothing as exhilarating as walking on water.
Here's what I know to be true:
1. He will provide a home for us.
2. He will provide resources for us.
3. He is NOT STRESSED about any of this and already has the key to our house in His hand.
Therefore - though Real Estate prices in Victoria may soar and spike, I will not fear for the Lord my God is my SHELTER and PROVIDER. THIS MOUNTAIN SHALL BE MOVED BY FAITH THE SIZE OF A MUSTARD SEED.
There - I feel better!! Hope this encourages you too.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Look Twice - Push Once
I bought a shirt at the mall yesterday and decided to change in the public washroom. I was running a bit late so I went into the first cubicle I found and proceeded to change my shirt. While I was there, I thought it would be a good use of my time to use the facilities. As I was doing that, I noticed a small box attached the side wall of the cubicle. I thought it was strange that such a box would be in a men's bathroom. As soon as that thought went through my mind, I realized that I didn't notice any urinals on the way INTO the bathroom. I was pretty certain no one was in the room at that point so I stood on my toes and peeked over the door. Sure enough... all I saw was stalls...
I have not been in this situation before, so it was important to create a workable exit strategy that would allow me to leave the washroom without encountering anyone on the way out. I decided that the best option was simply to make it look like I knew what I was doing and hope like crazy that I didn't meet anyone coming in while I was going out.
In cases like this, timing is everything. The challenge is to time your exit in such a way
that you don't bump into someone at the door. (The less explaining required the better...) I gathered my things, mustered my courage and opened the door. I quick marched across the bathroom and reached the door before anyone came in . (So far, so good I thought...) When I stepped out into the mall hallway, I took a hard right and kept my eyes glued to the floor for the first 20 feet. Thinking the coast was clear, I took a look around me, only to see a very confused senior lady looking at me and wondering which door she should go into. Yikes..
Somewhere in the back of my mind, I remember hearing that that if you are well dressed and look like you know what you're doing, most people will simply leave you alone and let you be on your way, so I squared my shoulders, held my head high and looked straight ahead. I was sweating when I got outside, but the wonders of a black shirt are that no one can see... (at least until later...) Lucky for me!
There's probably a great lesson in here if you want to dig around, but I think the best of all might be this:
"When in a strange place, look twice and open once before you choose a public washroom!"
I have not been in this situation before, so it was important to create a workable exit strategy that would allow me to leave the washroom without encountering anyone on the way out. I decided that the best option was simply to make it look like I knew what I was doing and hope like crazy that I didn't meet anyone coming in while I was going out.
In cases like this, timing is everything. The challenge is to time your exit in such a way
that you don't bump into someone at the door. (The less explaining required the better...) I gathered my things, mustered my courage and opened the door. I quick marched across the bathroom and reached the door before anyone came in . (So far, so good I thought...) When I stepped out into the mall hallway, I took a hard right and kept my eyes glued to the floor for the first 20 feet. Thinking the coast was clear, I took a look around me, only to see a very confused senior lady looking at me and wondering which door she should go into. Yikes..
Somewhere in the back of my mind, I remember hearing that that if you are well dressed and look like you know what you're doing, most people will simply leave you alone and let you be on your way, so I squared my shoulders, held my head high and looked straight ahead. I was sweating when I got outside, but the wonders of a black shirt are that no one can see... (at least until later...) Lucky for me!
There's probably a great lesson in here if you want to dig around, but I think the best of all might be this:
"When in a strange place, look twice and open once before you choose a public washroom!"
Monday, April 02, 2007
MLA Prayer Breakfast - UPDATE
What began as an "I wonder if we could ..." idea is quickly becoming reality. Our denominational minister's conference happens during the first week of May in Victoria this year. It's rare that the conference takes place in Victoria at the same time that the house is in session and so we have the unique opportunity to host a prayer breakfast for the MLA's this year. After a few phone calls and emails, we've been able to put an event together for May 1st at the Union Club in Victoria. (You really need to visit their website to see what a great venue the Lord has provided for us.)
This is an exciting opportunity to accomplish several objectives:
1) First of all, we will be able to make a huge statement of how much we value our MLA's by hosting them for breakfast at a very prestigious private club in downtown Victoria.
2) Secondly, we will have the opportunity to connect pastors from local communities across the province with their MLA's in a non-threatening environment.
3) Most importantly we will have the opportunity to pray for those who govern over us and to bless them as they serve our province in a key leadership role.
I'd like to personally invite you to participate in this very exciting opportunity in any (or all ) of the following ways.
1. Pray for open doors and schedules with every MLA. We see this as a divine opportunity, but we know that our enemy does not want this to happen. Pray that schedules will remain open for that morning and that there will be a genuine receptivity to this invitation.
2. Pray for the event itself. We will have 75 minutes to build bridges, make connections and touch lives. We know that nothing is impossible and that God is obviously in this, but we don't want to presume anything about this day and so humbly ask that you would pray with us towards a successful event, marked by the presence of God in every way.
3. We are looking for financial partners for this event. If you are interested in sharing in this exciting opportunity, please consider sowing into this miracle. You can help us financially by clicking here and following the instructions. Thanks for making a difference.
We are off to Victoria tomorrow for some house-hunting, visiting and meetings. Have a wonderful Easter!!
This is an exciting opportunity to accomplish several objectives:
1) First of all, we will be able to make a huge statement of how much we value our MLA's by hosting them for breakfast at a very prestigious private club in downtown Victoria.
2) Secondly, we will have the opportunity to connect pastors from local communities across the province with their MLA's in a non-threatening environment.
3) Most importantly we will have the opportunity to pray for those who govern over us and to bless them as they serve our province in a key leadership role.
I'd like to personally invite you to participate in this very exciting opportunity in any (or all ) of the following ways.
1. Pray for open doors and schedules with every MLA. We see this as a divine opportunity, but we know that our enemy does not want this to happen. Pray that schedules will remain open for that morning and that there will be a genuine receptivity to this invitation.
2. Pray for the event itself. We will have 75 minutes to build bridges, make connections and touch lives. We know that nothing is impossible and that God is obviously in this, but we don't want to presume anything about this day and so humbly ask that you would pray with us towards a successful event, marked by the presence of God in every way.
3. We are looking for financial partners for this event. If you are interested in sharing in this exciting opportunity, please consider sowing into this miracle. You can help us financially by clicking here and following the instructions. Thanks for making a difference.
We are off to Victoria tomorrow for some house-hunting, visiting and meetings. Have a wonderful Easter!!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Invite an MLA...
Sorry I haven't written all week, but it's been pretty busy around here with preparing for a move, taking care of our business, and growing the ministry all at the same time. It's been hectic to say the least.
In a few weeks our denominational pastor's conference will take place in Victoria. I've sent an email out to every pastor in our conference encouraging them to visit, connect with or treat their MLA to breakfast/lunch or dinner while they are there. I'm hoping to achieve several objectives with this initiative. The first is to be a blessing to the MLA's as my hope would be that pastors who have take the opportunity to visit would also have the opportunity to pray and or encourage their representative. The second is to facilitate establishing relationships between pastors and their respective MLA's.
Additionally, I'm also working on a mini "prayer breakfast" for Christian MLA's and the pastors from the ridings they represent. This will be a private event by invitation only but very significant at the same time. There are some other possibilities/opportunities that are in the mix, but I'm not able to share them with you at this time.
So... here are some prayer requests:
1. Pray that pastors will have the courage and vision to meet their MLA while in Victoria.
2. Pray that MLA's will be open to receive a call and visit. (Perhaps openings will suddenly appear in their schedule...)
3. Ask the Lord to open the doors for this exciting opportunity with the prayer breakfast. There are several hurdles to be crossed, but we believe that God has given us this opportunity.
I'll keep you posted!!!
Tim
In a few weeks our denominational pastor's conference will take place in Victoria. I've sent an email out to every pastor in our conference encouraging them to visit, connect with or treat their MLA to breakfast/lunch or dinner while they are there. I'm hoping to achieve several objectives with this initiative. The first is to be a blessing to the MLA's as my hope would be that pastors who have take the opportunity to visit would also have the opportunity to pray and or encourage their representative. The second is to facilitate establishing relationships between pastors and their respective MLA's.
Additionally, I'm also working on a mini "prayer breakfast" for Christian MLA's and the pastors from the ridings they represent. This will be a private event by invitation only but very significant at the same time. There are some other possibilities/opportunities that are in the mix, but I'm not able to share them with you at this time.
So... here are some prayer requests:
1. Pray that pastors will have the courage and vision to meet their MLA while in Victoria.
2. Pray that MLA's will be open to receive a call and visit. (Perhaps openings will suddenly appear in their schedule...)
3. Ask the Lord to open the doors for this exciting opportunity with the prayer breakfast. There are several hurdles to be crossed, but we believe that God has given us this opportunity.
I'll keep you posted!!!
Tim
Sunday, March 25, 2007
The Illusion of Security
The closer we get to making our move to Victoria, the more I am tempted with what I've called the illusion of security. Security is a good thing, it's just where you look for it that determines whether it's reality or an illusion. Sometimes the difference between illusion and reality is simply the difference between what's "good" and what's "best".
Good is safe, best is ... dangerous, requires sacrifice, and a whole lot of faith to see it happen and that's where the illusion of security comes into play. Playing it "safe" in our eyes generally keeps us from the fullness of what God has for us. There's an old hymn "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms". One line talks about being "safe and secure from all alarm". The place of safety is found in leaning on the everlasting arms of Jesus, not a bad place to be...
I was sharing this with a friend this week. She relayed something that happened with her son and his buddies a few days ago. They were out fishing near Victoria but when they came to shore, the tide was too low for them to pull the boat out at the same place they put it in. They decided to go to a different marina to pull out there as the launch was better suited to low tide. Her son, who is training to be a sea captain, got off the boat to drive the truck and trailer to the other location left his friends with this advice... "keep the green buoys on your right..."
A little while later, he got a phone call from his buddies saying that they were in shallow water and needed some help. He asked if they could see the bottom to which they replied that they could see the feet of the birds standing in the water. He asked where the green buoys were and they said "on the left".
Here's the conclusion that my friend shared with me....
So Tim you can take this ship and go into safe shallow water but you are not going to get to where you really want to go. It doesn’ t even require that much faith, In fact you couldn’t even walk on water if you wanted to cause it is so shallow you can see birds feet. LOL On the other hand if you stay on the right side of the buoys the water is dark and you can’t really reach land too quickly but ships whip along in that deep water and there is no fear of getting stuck.
So... in spite of the illusion of security, we are headed for the deep water where the big ships go!!
And in my best "Captain Highliner" voice....
"Arrr Billy.... Have ye ever been to sea?"
Good is safe, best is ... dangerous, requires sacrifice, and a whole lot of faith to see it happen and that's where the illusion of security comes into play. Playing it "safe" in our eyes generally keeps us from the fullness of what God has for us. There's an old hymn "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms". One line talks about being "safe and secure from all alarm". The place of safety is found in leaning on the everlasting arms of Jesus, not a bad place to be...
I was sharing this with a friend this week. She relayed something that happened with her son and his buddies a few days ago. They were out fishing near Victoria but when they came to shore, the tide was too low for them to pull the boat out at the same place they put it in. They decided to go to a different marina to pull out there as the launch was better suited to low tide. Her son, who is training to be a sea captain, got off the boat to drive the truck and trailer to the other location left his friends with this advice... "keep the green buoys on your right..."
A little while later, he got a phone call from his buddies saying that they were in shallow water and needed some help. He asked if they could see the bottom to which they replied that they could see the feet of the birds standing in the water. He asked where the green buoys were and they said "on the left".
Here's the conclusion that my friend shared with me....
So Tim you can take this ship and go into safe shallow water but you are not going to get to where you really want to go. It doesn’ t even require that much faith, In fact you couldn’t even walk on water if you wanted to cause it is so shallow you can see birds feet. LOL On the other hand if you stay on the right side of the buoys the water is dark and you can’t really reach land too quickly but ships whip along in that deep water and there is no fear of getting stuck.
So... in spite of the illusion of security, we are headed for the deep water where the big ships go!!
And in my best "Captain Highliner" voice....
"Arrr Billy.... Have ye ever been to sea?"
Monday, March 19, 2007
The Sound of Heaven
Heaven is a noisy place. There's music, singing, shouting and declarations of victory and joy. Everyone in heaven is a part of it. The living creatures, the angels, the elders, the multitudes, the trumpets and the voice of God all combine to make up the sound of heaven. It's a positive sound. It's a powerful sound. The sound of heaven is the sound of victory, the sound of triumph, the sound of celebration. It's a sound that never ends...
In Acts 16, you'll read about Paul and Silas in prison. At about midnight we find Paul and Silas praying and singing. These aren't superheroes, they are just two men, called by God to preach but they knew something powerful. They knew that when the sound we make on earth resonates with the sound made in heaven the atmosphere for a miracle is created and in that moment anything can happen. So rather than giving in to their pain, their fear and their discouragement, they chose to align their sound with the sound of heaven. The sound in heaven is always focused on God's greatness, His power, His victory and His majesty. As they sang an earthquake began to shake the foundations of the prison so that every prison door sprung open and every prisoners chains fell off. That's totally incredible!
I used to play guitar. Every so often, my guitar would resonate with the sound that was coming from another instrument. The strings would begin to make their own sound when another instrument would produce a sound at the same pitch. The soundboard would begin to vibrate which caused the strings to make their own sound. That's kind of what happened that night in prison. Paul and Silas sent out a sound that resounded with the sound of heaven that resulted in a supernatural release of the power of heaven in their prison cell. What makes this even more amazing is that Paul and Silas weren't the only beneficiaries of heaven's power. The scope of their victory spilled over into the lives of those that were neither singing nor praying!! Their doors swung open and their chains fell off. Is it possible that the words we speak, the songs we sing, the attitudes we carry could actually create an atmosphere of miracles that brings transformation to our homes, neighbourhoods, towns, cities, province and nation just because we've sent out a sound that resonates with heaven?
I don't know what's happening in your life. I don't know what prison you may find yourself in, what giant you might be facing, what mountain needs to move for you. All I know is that when your sound aligns with the sound of heaven, anything can happen!!
So... go ahead.... make some noise that resonates with the sound of heaven.
In Acts 16, you'll read about Paul and Silas in prison. At about midnight we find Paul and Silas praying and singing. These aren't superheroes, they are just two men, called by God to preach but they knew something powerful. They knew that when the sound we make on earth resonates with the sound made in heaven the atmosphere for a miracle is created and in that moment anything can happen. So rather than giving in to their pain, their fear and their discouragement, they chose to align their sound with the sound of heaven. The sound in heaven is always focused on God's greatness, His power, His victory and His majesty. As they sang an earthquake began to shake the foundations of the prison so that every prison door sprung open and every prisoners chains fell off. That's totally incredible!
I used to play guitar. Every so often, my guitar would resonate with the sound that was coming from another instrument. The strings would begin to make their own sound when another instrument would produce a sound at the same pitch. The soundboard would begin to vibrate which caused the strings to make their own sound. That's kind of what happened that night in prison. Paul and Silas sent out a sound that resounded with the sound of heaven that resulted in a supernatural release of the power of heaven in their prison cell. What makes this even more amazing is that Paul and Silas weren't the only beneficiaries of heaven's power. The scope of their victory spilled over into the lives of those that were neither singing nor praying!! Their doors swung open and their chains fell off. Is it possible that the words we speak, the songs we sing, the attitudes we carry could actually create an atmosphere of miracles that brings transformation to our homes, neighbourhoods, towns, cities, province and nation just because we've sent out a sound that resonates with heaven?
I don't know what's happening in your life. I don't know what prison you may find yourself in, what giant you might be facing, what mountain needs to move for you. All I know is that when your sound aligns with the sound of heaven, anything can happen!!
So... go ahead.... make some noise that resonates with the sound of heaven.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Something different
I got this in an email from a friend. I hope you enjoy it.
An Irishman moves into a tiny hamlet in County Kerry. One evening he walks into the local pub and promptly orders three beers. The bartender raises his eyebrows, but serves the man three beers, which he drinks quietly at a table, alone. An hour later, the man has finished the three beers and orders three more. This happens yet again. The next evening the man again orders and drinks three beers at a time, several times.
Soon the entire town is whispering about the Man Who Orders Three Beers. Finally, a week later, the bartender broaches the subject on behalf of the town. "I don't mean to pry, but folks around here are wondering why you always order three beers?" "Tis odd, isn't it?" the man replies, "You see, I have two brothers, and one went to America, and the other to Australia. We promised each other that we would always order an extra two beers whenever we drank as a way of keeping up the family bond." The bartender and the whole town were pleased with this answer, and soon the Man Who Orders Three Beers became a local celebrity and source of pride to the hamlet, even to the extent that out-of-towners would come to watch him drink. Then, one day, the man comes in and orders only two beers. The bartender pours them with a heavy heart. This continues for the rest of the evening. He orders only two beers. The word flies around town. Prayers are offered for the soul of one of the brothers. The next day, the bartender says to the man, "Folks around here, me first of all, want to offer condolences to you for the death of your brother. You know-the two beers and all..." The man ponders this for a moment, then replies, "You'll be happy to hear that my two brothers are alive and well. It's just that I, meself, have decided to give up drinking for Lent."
An Irishman moves into a tiny hamlet in County Kerry. One evening he walks into the local pub and promptly orders three beers. The bartender raises his eyebrows, but serves the man three beers, which he drinks quietly at a table, alone. An hour later, the man has finished the three beers and orders three more. This happens yet again. The next evening the man again orders and drinks three beers at a time, several times.
Soon the entire town is whispering about the Man Who Orders Three Beers. Finally, a week later, the bartender broaches the subject on behalf of the town. "I don't mean to pry, but folks around here are wondering why you always order three beers?" "Tis odd, isn't it?" the man replies, "You see, I have two brothers, and one went to America, and the other to Australia. We promised each other that we would always order an extra two beers whenever we drank as a way of keeping up the family bond." The bartender and the whole town were pleased with this answer, and soon the Man Who Orders Three Beers became a local celebrity and source of pride to the hamlet, even to the extent that out-of-towners would come to watch him drink. Then, one day, the man comes in and orders only two beers. The bartender pours them with a heavy heart. This continues for the rest of the evening. He orders only two beers. The word flies around town. Prayers are offered for the soul of one of the brothers. The next day, the bartender says to the man, "Folks around here, me first of all, want to offer condolences to you for the death of your brother. You know-the two beers and all..." The man ponders this for a moment, then replies, "You'll be happy to hear that my two brothers are alive and well. It's just that I, meself, have decided to give up drinking for Lent."
Saturday, March 10, 2007
A Night Out
Barb has been working tremendously hard as we bridge the gap between pastoral ministry and establishing the chaplaincy. Between teaching, newspaper distribution and just generally being a fantastic mom and wife, life has been pretty crazy. She was due for a treat so last night we went to something very unique. It's "Cowboy Festival" time in Kamloops. The festival is a gathering of cowboy poets, traditional country artists, artisans, etc, etc. It's pretty interesting if for no other reason than to see the many interesting people around town.
The Kamloops Symphony was hosting an Alberta group called "Celtic Cowboy". Barb is much more of a symphony fan than I am, but I knew she'd really enjoy it. Celtic Cowboy is true cowboy band with a "fiddle, flute, harp, guitar and mandolin". They do traditional cowboy music mixed in with some story telling. It was a great show!! They had never been backed up by an orchestra before so it was new for everyone but a great night all the same.
If you're in Kamloops (or nearby) you can probably still get tickets. If not, you can visit their website and learn more about them. If you ever get the chance to hear them live, you'll absolutely enjoy yourself.
Talk to you later
The Kamloops Symphony was hosting an Alberta group called "Celtic Cowboy". Barb is much more of a symphony fan than I am, but I knew she'd really enjoy it. Celtic Cowboy is true cowboy band with a "fiddle, flute, harp, guitar and mandolin". They do traditional cowboy music mixed in with some story telling. It was a great show!! They had never been backed up by an orchestra before so it was new for everyone but a great night all the same.
If you're in Kamloops (or nearby) you can probably still get tickets. If not, you can visit their website and learn more about them. If you ever get the chance to hear them live, you'll absolutely enjoy yourself.
Talk to you later
Friday, March 09, 2007
From sea to sea...
I arrived early at the Legislature one morning this week and had a few extra minutes to walk the grounds and pray. Because I've found FREE PARKING nearby, I started my walk at the Fountain of Confederation. It's directly across from the Legislature and features the Coats of Arms of the Provinces and Territories on a wall that serves as a backdrop to a large low fountain. In the centre of the wall is the Canadian Coat of Arms along with our official motto "And his dominion shall be from sea to sea" (Ps. 72:8) I couldn't help see the incredible symbolism (both national and prophetic) of this fountain.
In the natural realm, the symbolism is obvious as the all of the provinces and territories are represented in one place in Canada's most western province. I'm not sure if there's a similar spot in Newfoundland, but I want to visit there and find out.
The spiritual symbolism of this spot is breathtaking to me. A few blocks from where the fountain is there is a statue recognizing the Spanish explorers who first discovered Vancouver Island. They made their mark by planting a flag and claiming the land for Spain. We know that the Spaniards eventually lost control of the land to the British and the rest is history. The difference between an explorer planting his flag and God making HIS mark is that the kingdom of heaven never passes away. It is an eternal kingdom that will stand for all of time and eternity. When God sowed the seed of a vision for the Fountain of Confederation He was making his eternal mark on the western shores of Canada.
The fountain speaks to me of abundance and the constant flow of the blessing of God. The fountain is made up of two bowls. The lower bowl is probably 20 feet in diameter. The smaller bowl is about 5 feet in diameter. The smaller bowl is elevated above the larger and the water flows generously up through it's centre and then overflows into the larger. I see this as picture of God's promise for our nation. I hear Him saying that as the life giving presence and power of the Holy Spirit is released into the lives of government leaders, that His blessing will be poured out in abundance upon our nation in unprecedented ways. Some are saying that God is positioning our nation to be a lender to many and it may be that this will happen as the result of our leaders encountering the life and presence of the Spirit in their own lives.
In the natural realm, the symbolism is obvious as the all of the provinces and territories are represented in one place in Canada's most western province. I'm not sure if there's a similar spot in Newfoundland, but I want to visit there and find out.
The spiritual symbolism of this spot is breathtaking to me. A few blocks from where the fountain is there is a statue recognizing the Spanish explorers who first discovered Vancouver Island. They made their mark by planting a flag and claiming the land for Spain. We know that the Spaniards eventually lost control of the land to the British and the rest is history. The difference between an explorer planting his flag and God making HIS mark is that the kingdom of heaven never passes away. It is an eternal kingdom that will stand for all of time and eternity. When God sowed the seed of a vision for the Fountain of Confederation He was making his eternal mark on the western shores of Canada.
The fountain speaks to me of abundance and the constant flow of the blessing of God. The fountain is made up of two bowls. The lower bowl is probably 20 feet in diameter. The smaller bowl is about 5 feet in diameter. The smaller bowl is elevated above the larger and the water flows generously up through it's centre and then overflows into the larger. I see this as picture of God's promise for our nation. I hear Him saying that as the life giving presence and power of the Holy Spirit is released into the lives of government leaders, that His blessing will be poured out in abundance upon our nation in unprecedented ways. Some are saying that God is positioning our nation to be a lender to many and it may be that this will happen as the result of our leaders encountering the life and presence of the Spirit in their own lives.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
When Answers Come...
I've been incredibly blessed over the past few days. On Monday evening I was a guest at Colwood Pentecostal Church's ladies prayer night. Because of my former involvement with the church as a staff person, I've known some of these ladies for ... a few years (sooner or later, you've got to stop counting...) It was an amazing night. These ladies know how to pray and touch heaven! They shared scripture, prophetic insight and prayed with regard to some very specific requests that I had shared with them as well. What I thought might be 20 minutes turned into about 2 hours, but it was worth every second. I left feeling encouraged, strengthened and renewed.
On Tuesday, I spent a few hours at the Legislature praying and listening to the debate. I was so impressed by Corky Evans and his speech that I sent him an email last night. He had some great material and insight, but it was his presentation that really caught my attention. I could hear his passion for people, our province and the environment. I'm convinced that MLA's really want to make a difference and lead our province to a better and brighter future. In the prayer that morning, there was a line that said something about "help us to lead in such a way that prosperity is shared by everyone and not just a few". I think that's how Jesus wants it to be.
Because I'd been away since Saturday, I took an early flight home but was blessed to have lunch with Pastor Dan and Susan MacLean from Victoria Miracle Centre before I left town. These are incredible people who are down to earth and very real. They shared some amazing stories of what God has done in their church. We don't always understand the why behind signs and wonders (sometimes they just make you wonder...) but they thrill us just the same. I enjoyed my time with them tremendously and look forward to getting to know them more when we re-locate to Victoria later this year. As we finished lunch, Pastor Dan handed me a generous cheque as an expression of their support of the vision. I'm so grateful that people who are only getting to know us and the ministry are responding to the leading of the Holy Spirit in this way.
This weekend, I'm in Kelowna at Rutland Gospel Tabernacle with Pastor Ted Bonk. I'm looking forward to being there!
Have a good one!!
On Tuesday, I spent a few hours at the Legislature praying and listening to the debate. I was so impressed by Corky Evans and his speech that I sent him an email last night. He had some great material and insight, but it was his presentation that really caught my attention. I could hear his passion for people, our province and the environment. I'm convinced that MLA's really want to make a difference and lead our province to a better and brighter future. In the prayer that morning, there was a line that said something about "help us to lead in such a way that prosperity is shared by everyone and not just a few". I think that's how Jesus wants it to be.
Because I'd been away since Saturday, I took an early flight home but was blessed to have lunch with Pastor Dan and Susan MacLean from Victoria Miracle Centre before I left town. These are incredible people who are down to earth and very real. They shared some amazing stories of what God has done in their church. We don't always understand the why behind signs and wonders (sometimes they just make you wonder...) but they thrill us just the same. I enjoyed my time with them tremendously and look forward to getting to know them more when we re-locate to Victoria later this year. As we finished lunch, Pastor Dan handed me a generous cheque as an expression of their support of the vision. I'm so grateful that people who are only getting to know us and the ministry are responding to the leading of the Holy Spirit in this way.
This weekend, I'm in Kelowna at Rutland Gospel Tabernacle with Pastor Ted Bonk. I'm looking forward to being there!
Have a good one!!
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Great Day
This was great day! For the first time in a month, our family was in church together as we worshipped with Burnaby Chinese Pentecostal Church. We had met the church at Christmas time when I spoke for their winter retreat. These are amazing people who love God and each other. It was so awesome to worship in bilingual context (Cantonese and English...) today. It made me think of what heaven must be like as people from every language group worship together around the throne. How exciting to see a church bridge generational, cultural and language gaps all for the sake of worship.
Before the service began, the soundman offered me their wireless microphone. Tyler asked me if that thing would change my words to Chinese when I spoke. It was pretty cute, but you've got to admire his thinking. It's a pretty neat idea.
I'm currently in Victoria for a few days. I've got some appointments booked here over the next few days and am looking forward to seeing what interesting surprises God has prepared in advance for me.
I'll keep you posted!
Before the service began, the soundman offered me their wireless microphone. Tyler asked me if that thing would change my words to Chinese when I spoke. It was pretty cute, but you've got to admire his thinking. It's a pretty neat idea.
I'm currently in Victoria for a few days. I've got some appointments booked here over the next few days and am looking forward to seeing what interesting surprises God has prepared in advance for me.
I'll keep you posted!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Encouraging Signs....
We've got about 100 people on our email group who are participating in praying for our MLA's on a daily basis. The way it works is that you go to the ministry website www.leadinginfluence.com , click on the mla prayer calendar , click again on the day of the month and pray for the MLA and their riding. At this point, it's all pretty simple, we just ask people to pray for wisdom, strength, grace and courage for each member and then to follow the Holy Spirit and allow Him to lead them as they pray for the riding. If this is something new to you, it's really just a matter of stopping and asking the Lord how to pray or to help you to pray.
If you check into the calendar, you'll know that it wasn't changed over from February until about noon yesterday. I had at least 3 emails asking when it would be up and going because people were eager to pray. I love the fact that people are eager to pray and press in!
I get the sense that something very exciting will come out of this prayer intitiative that will be key to revival sweeping our province and nation!
If my people will humble themselves and pray ... I will HEAR from heaven and HEAL their land!
You can join the team of 10,000 prayer warriors by sending an email to prayer@leadinginfluence.com asking us to add your name to the list or by clicking the "add me to this list" button on the prayer calendar. You'll get an email from us saying that you've been added to the list and will then begin to receive bi-weekly emails from us about what's happening in the ministry, what God is doing and how you can be a part. We'd love to have you join us!!
If you check into the calendar, you'll know that it wasn't changed over from February until about noon yesterday. I had at least 3 emails asking when it would be up and going because people were eager to pray. I love the fact that people are eager to pray and press in!
I get the sense that something very exciting will come out of this prayer intitiative that will be key to revival sweeping our province and nation!
If my people will humble themselves and pray ... I will HEAR from heaven and HEAL their land!
You can join the team of 10,000 prayer warriors by sending an email to prayer@leadinginfluence.com asking us to add your name to the list or by clicking the "add me to this list" button on the prayer calendar. You'll get an email from us saying that you've been added to the list and will then begin to receive bi-weekly emails from us about what's happening in the ministry, what God is doing and how you can be a part. We'd love to have you join us!!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
What's that smell??
It's been a while since I've posted anything about my family on the blog, but this was just too good to pass up. If you've been checking in for a while, you'll know that our dog had puppies in January and that it's been a bit like Petland at our house. The last of the puppies left on Saturday. That means that Zoe (our yellow lab...) is VERY DUE for a bath.
When I walked past her the other day, I looked at her and said "You smell!" Tyler (our youngest - 9) turned around and said, no Dad, it's me. I haven't had a bath in a long time!
Needless to say - he had one shortly after!!
Thanks for checking in. It means a lot to know you are there!
Tim
When I walked past her the other day, I looked at her and said "You smell!" Tyler (our youngest - 9) turned around and said, no Dad, it's me. I haven't had a bath in a long time!
Needless to say - he had one shortly after!!
Thanks for checking in. It means a lot to know you are there!
Tim
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
God is in the Intersections of Life
I've learned (or maybe more accurately, I am continuing to learn...) that God is in the intersections of life. If you're from Gateway City Church in Kamloops, you'll know that this is the slogan associated with the church. Even though I've been gone for a while, the phrase still holds tremendous meaning to me.
I enjoyed a great weekend with some friends and Evangel Chapel in Ft. St. John. Tony and Sara Warriner along with Phil and Cynthia Hamar are doing a great job leading a thriving church in a very exciting community. I was blessed to be their guest for the weekend. We all shared ministry together in Kamloops so it was great to be with them again. The church was very receptive and supportive of the ministry so that was exciting too.
The trip home was where God showed up the intersections of life. I arrived in Vancouver late and for only the second time in a year missed a connecting flight. After getting booked onto the next flight (3 hrs. later...) I turned around to see two MLA's waiting for their flight to Victoria. Knowing that there are no "accidents", I wandered over, said hello and enjoyed a nice visit with them. I love how God orders our days and our steps so that His plans can be perfectly fulfilled.
The plan for today was to go to Victoria for the day. (NOTE: "was" is the key word!) I arrived at the airport 23 minutes before my flight left and there was NO ONE at the Air Canada counter. After the flight was loaded, the agent came back to tell me that the flight had left. I thought that he must be kidding but he told me that he did things "by the book" and that I needed to be there 30 minutes before the flight left in order to be guaranteed my spot. Silly me... I thought BUYING A TICKET guaranteed my spot. Small wonder people in Kamloops keep hoping Westjet will fly here...
So... between being disappointed, bewildered and frustrated, Barb thought that the best solution to my muttering and moping was an afternoon at Sun Peaks. It seemed like a reasonable antidote to me too so the boys and I had a "dad day" on the hill and had a blast. Lots of snow, fun and fresh air all of which made for a fantastic day. Sometimes, you've just got to stop and smell the roses, or in this case the cajun cheese stick at the Sunburst Lodge on a sunny day.
Life is good!!
Tim
I enjoyed a great weekend with some friends and Evangel Chapel in Ft. St. John. Tony and Sara Warriner along with Phil and Cynthia Hamar are doing a great job leading a thriving church in a very exciting community. I was blessed to be their guest for the weekend. We all shared ministry together in Kamloops so it was great to be with them again. The church was very receptive and supportive of the ministry so that was exciting too.
The trip home was where God showed up the intersections of life. I arrived in Vancouver late and for only the second time in a year missed a connecting flight. After getting booked onto the next flight (3 hrs. later...) I turned around to see two MLA's waiting for their flight to Victoria. Knowing that there are no "accidents", I wandered over, said hello and enjoyed a nice visit with them. I love how God orders our days and our steps so that His plans can be perfectly fulfilled.
The plan for today was to go to Victoria for the day. (NOTE: "was" is the key word!) I arrived at the airport 23 minutes before my flight left and there was NO ONE at the Air Canada counter. After the flight was loaded, the agent came back to tell me that the flight had left. I thought that he must be kidding but he told me that he did things "by the book" and that I needed to be there 30 minutes before the flight left in order to be guaranteed my spot. Silly me... I thought BUYING A TICKET guaranteed my spot. Small wonder people in Kamloops keep hoping Westjet will fly here...
So... between being disappointed, bewildered and frustrated, Barb thought that the best solution to my muttering and moping was an afternoon at Sun Peaks. It seemed like a reasonable antidote to me too so the boys and I had a "dad day" on the hill and had a blast. Lots of snow, fun and fresh air all of which made for a fantastic day. Sometimes, you've just got to stop and smell the roses, or in this case the cajun cheese stick at the Sunburst Lodge on a sunny day.
Life is good!!
Tim
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
I have set before you an open door that no one can shut...
I am a believer. In some ways I’ve always been a believer, but this is something new. I have come to believe that there when God is in something, then the unusual and the extraordinary become the norm. I had another one of “those” days again today. One marked with miracles and a general “is this really happening to me?” combined with a generous dose of “Wow God, this is amazing…”
I can’t tell you everything that happened today because I want to respect the privacy of the people I was with today, but I do want to share some things with you in general terms because it is just so exciting to see how God is opening doors into the lives and world of the MLA’s of our province.
I was invited to lunch today with a friend of the ministry who is really going out of his way to help us get going in terms of making introductions to the right people in Victoria. Shortly after arriving, I discovered that our lunch was actually a private affair and that we would be dining with 5 other MLA’s. They were very gracious, kind and welcoming. After lunch was over, I was able to speak privately with several of them about why I was there and what I felt God had called me to do. Again they were encouraging and receptive commenting that they felt there would be real value in having a non-partisan ministry presence in their midst. This is all very encouraging, exciting and rewarding to say the least.
While I was waiting for Question Period to begin today, I was reflecting on what God has done over the last 8 days. In reality He’s been doing it for much longer than 8 days, I’ve only seen the fruit of it over the past 8 days. He has been arranging all of this from before the foundations of the earth were laid, just as He has in your life. When these things begin to happen, it feels like a whirlwind, but it makes me wonder, what surprises He has in store and what doors He may open next.
Stay tuned…
Tim
I can’t tell you everything that happened today because I want to respect the privacy of the people I was with today, but I do want to share some things with you in general terms because it is just so exciting to see how God is opening doors into the lives and world of the MLA’s of our province.
I was invited to lunch today with a friend of the ministry who is really going out of his way to help us get going in terms of making introductions to the right people in Victoria. Shortly after arriving, I discovered that our lunch was actually a private affair and that we would be dining with 5 other MLA’s. They were very gracious, kind and welcoming. After lunch was over, I was able to speak privately with several of them about why I was there and what I felt God had called me to do. Again they were encouraging and receptive commenting that they felt there would be real value in having a non-partisan ministry presence in their midst. This is all very encouraging, exciting and rewarding to say the least.
While I was waiting for Question Period to begin today, I was reflecting on what God has done over the last 8 days. In reality He’s been doing it for much longer than 8 days, I’ve only seen the fruit of it over the past 8 days. He has been arranging all of this from before the foundations of the earth were laid, just as He has in your life. When these things begin to happen, it feels like a whirlwind, but it makes me wonder, what surprises He has in store and what doors He may open next.
Stay tuned…
Tim
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Did this really just happen??
I attended the Speech from the Throne in Victoria today as the guest of a local MLA/Cabinet Minister who is a friend of the ministry. I arrived in plenty of time to people watch, chit chat with those who were sitting around me and just get the feel of the place. I noticed my MLA friend come out onto the floor about 10 minutes before things were to begin. He greeted a few people and then began to scan the public galleries greeting a few people he recognized. When he looked my way, I waved and smiled to catch his attention hoping that he would see me up in the "cheap seats". Upon recognizing me, he motioned for me to come down to the main floor and meet him at the door to the Chamber. When I arrived, he introduced me to the Sergeant at Arms who explained that the minister that had agreed to open the session in prayer had cancelled and could I/would I be willing to open in prayer. When I agreed (which took all of about .5 seconds, I was wisked to the Speaker's office (who is a Christian...) and was asked again if I would be willing to serve in this way. Again, I told him I would and he directed me to go with the Sergeant where I was led through the door behind the Speaker's throne and shown my seat where I was to wait until I was called upon to pray. After that he asked if I'd like to see their prayer book or just pray one of my one. I looked at the book and opted to pray my own... :-)
I spent most of the speech just trying to get my head around what had just happened... I'm going back next week for the Budget speech. As I was walking to the Speaker's office, my MLA friend turned to me and said "we know who's really in charge here don't we Tim!" He was as excited as I was!!
I have to tell you that I am absolutely amazed at how God orders our lives and our days. I had absolutely no expectation to do anything more than attend the speech and perhaps have a moment to visit with my friend. God had set up an entirely different day that allowed me to meet virtually every Cabinet minister in the province and to publicly intercede for the MLA's and ask His blessing on this session. I was even on TV! (Okay, it was BC Leg TV and only political junkies watch it, but still it was pretty amazing!)
Catch you later.Tim
I spent most of the speech just trying to get my head around what had just happened... I'm going back next week for the Budget speech. As I was walking to the Speaker's office, my MLA friend turned to me and said "we know who's really in charge here don't we Tim!" He was as excited as I was!!
I have to tell you that I am absolutely amazed at how God orders our lives and our days. I had absolutely no expectation to do anything more than attend the speech and perhaps have a moment to visit with my friend. God had set up an entirely different day that allowed me to meet virtually every Cabinet minister in the province and to publicly intercede for the MLA's and ask His blessing on this session. I was even on TV! (Okay, it was BC Leg TV and only political junkies watch it, but still it was pretty amazing!)
Catch you later.Tim
Monday, February 12, 2007
The Speech From the Throne
Matthew 16:18 would be among my many favorite verses. I like to think of it as Jesus' "Speech from the Throne" where He defines His agenda, goals and the terms by which it will be fulfilled.
I love the part where He says "I will give you the keys and what you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and what you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. While He is committed to building the Church, He empowers the Church to be the instrument through which He accomplishes His goals.
Our great opportunity is to use the keys He has given us to affect the world around us through the power of prayer. I remain captivated with the possibilities of what could happen as 10,000 people a day touch heaven to change earth on behalf of a single MLA and his/her riding.
As this legislative session gets started, there are some specific themes that I'd like to ask you to pray about.
1. Our MLA's. These are hard working people who make some tremendous sacrifices to serve as decision makers and advocates for their particular ridings. It's largely a thankless job that requires travel, time away from home, long hours and endless criticism. They do it because they believe that public service is a noble undertaking. They need protection as they travel, wisdom as they debate and make decisions, grace to deal with the pressure that comes along with the job and courage to make the right choices. Pray that God would bless them and grant them strength as they serve our province in this way.
2. MLA Staff. Every MLA has at least one office with a group of people who are there to serve the MLA and their constituents. They too need grace and strength as they serve in their roles.
3. Provincial Ridings. Every riding has a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As time goes on, we anticipate providing as much information as possible on our prayer calender. In the meantime, please pray that the Lord would begin to work very powerfully in each riding and that His grace, presence and Spirit would flow to every resident, decision maker and leader there.
Let's ask for God's blessing, outpouring and favor on our leaders and their ridings and watch what God will do.
I'd love to hear from you on this!
Have a MIGHTY week!!
Tim
I love the part where He says "I will give you the keys and what you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and what you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. While He is committed to building the Church, He empowers the Church to be the instrument through which He accomplishes His goals.
Our great opportunity is to use the keys He has given us to affect the world around us through the power of prayer. I remain captivated with the possibilities of what could happen as 10,000 people a day touch heaven to change earth on behalf of a single MLA and his/her riding.
As this legislative session gets started, there are some specific themes that I'd like to ask you to pray about.
1. Our MLA's. These are hard working people who make some tremendous sacrifices to serve as decision makers and advocates for their particular ridings. It's largely a thankless job that requires travel, time away from home, long hours and endless criticism. They do it because they believe that public service is a noble undertaking. They need protection as they travel, wisdom as they debate and make decisions, grace to deal with the pressure that comes along with the job and courage to make the right choices. Pray that God would bless them and grant them strength as they serve our province in this way.
2. MLA Staff. Every MLA has at least one office with a group of people who are there to serve the MLA and their constituents. They too need grace and strength as they serve in their roles.
3. Provincial Ridings. Every riding has a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As time goes on, we anticipate providing as much information as possible on our prayer calender. In the meantime, please pray that the Lord would begin to work very powerfully in each riding and that His grace, presence and Spirit would flow to every resident, decision maker and leader there.
Let's ask for God's blessing, outpouring and favor on our leaders and their ridings and watch what God will do.
I'd love to hear from you on this!
Have a MIGHTY week!!
Tim
Friday, February 09, 2007
By faith...
WOW!! A lot has happened since my last post. The MLA prayer list has grown to nearly 100 people and we are well on our way to taking the next giant leap forward there. The timing on this is amazing as the Speech from the Throne happens next Tuesday. I'm looking forward to being there for the start of the legislative session. We've been blessed by a champion of the ministry who has secured tickets to this and the Budget speech that follows a week later.
It's exciting to finally be in the place where this vision is becoming reality. What has seemed so off in the distance is becoming rapidly becoming substance. I've learned some huge lessons in the past year, not the least of which is the power of faith. The bible talks about calling those things that are not as though they are. A year ago, this ministry only existed in terms of a vision that I had shared with very few people. Today, we have prayer and financial partners that are standing with us to make the vision a reality and as of next Tuesday the vision becomes substance as the work of touching and reaching the MLA's of BC with the love, light and life of Jesus becomes reality. I'm under no illusions. This will be hard work and my faith will be stretched again, but I'm starting to really enjoy that and am looking forward to taking the next step forward on the journey.
Here's what else I'm learning about faith. It works in every part of our lives. Sometimes we see this only as a churchy or "religious" tool, but faith works everywhere. Believing it shall be is always the first step towards to seeing it happen. I get what I expect. Nothing more. Nothing less. And when I live expecting a good thing, good things happen. When I live expecting bad things, I get those things too!
So... "ya just gotta believe..." and watch the rest fall into place.
Tim
It's exciting to finally be in the place where this vision is becoming reality. What has seemed so off in the distance is becoming rapidly becoming substance. I've learned some huge lessons in the past year, not the least of which is the power of faith. The bible talks about calling those things that are not as though they are. A year ago, this ministry only existed in terms of a vision that I had shared with very few people. Today, we have prayer and financial partners that are standing with us to make the vision a reality and as of next Tuesday the vision becomes substance as the work of touching and reaching the MLA's of BC with the love, light and life of Jesus becomes reality. I'm under no illusions. This will be hard work and my faith will be stretched again, but I'm starting to really enjoy that and am looking forward to taking the next step forward on the journey.
Here's what else I'm learning about faith. It works in every part of our lives. Sometimes we see this only as a churchy or "religious" tool, but faith works everywhere. Believing it shall be is always the first step towards to seeing it happen. I get what I expect. Nothing more. Nothing less. And when I live expecting a good thing, good things happen. When I live expecting bad things, I get those things too!
So... "ya just gotta believe..." and watch the rest fall into place.
Tim
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Let it Go!!
From T. D. Jakes - Very inspiring!!
There are people who can walk away from you. And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: Let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone. When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.
The bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19]
People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay. Let them go - doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over.
Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give It to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it. Stop begging people to stay. Let them go!!
If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to...... LET IT GO!!! If you are holding on to past hurts and pains . LET IT GO! If someone can't treat you right, love you back, And see your worth..... LET IT GO!!!
If someone has angered you.... LET IT GO! If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge...LET IT GO! If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction... LET IT GO!!!
If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents... LET IT GO!!!
If you have a bad attitude... LET IT GO!!! If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better... LET IT GO!!!
If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him... LET IT GO!!! If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship... LET IT GO!!! If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...... LET IT GO!!!
If you're feeling depressed and stressed ... LET IT GO!!! If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!
Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2007!!! LET IT GO!!! Get Right or Get Left .. think about it, and then.... LET IT GO!!!
There are people who can walk away from you. And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: Let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone. When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left.
The bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19]
People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay. Let them go - doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over.
Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give It to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it. Stop begging people to stay. Let them go!!
If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to...... LET IT GO!!! If you are holding on to past hurts and pains . LET IT GO! If someone can't treat you right, love you back, And see your worth..... LET IT GO!!!
If someone has angered you.... LET IT GO! If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge...LET IT GO! If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction... LET IT GO!!!
If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents... LET IT GO!!!
If you have a bad attitude... LET IT GO!!! If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better... LET IT GO!!!
If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in Him... LET IT GO!!! If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship... LET IT GO!!! If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...... LET IT GO!!!
If you're feeling depressed and stressed ... LET IT GO!!! If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!
Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2007!!! LET IT GO!!! Get Right or Get Left .. think about it, and then.... LET IT GO!!!
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Did you feel the darkness tremble??
February marks an official next step in Leading Influence Ministries. In addition to being in the Legislature as of February 13 to "watch and pray", As of today we are embarking towards the goal of having 10,000 people praying for BC MLA's and their ridings on a daily basis. Imagine the spiritual impact of having 10,000 people praying for an MLA and their riding every day. If even a little prayer makes a difference what would happen when that many people begin to pray along the same theme and with the same focus?
Unprecedented displays of the grace, mercy, wisdom and power of God will be seen in ways that have been previously unkown. Where it has seemed that God is on the outside looking in, He will suddenly be on the inside looking out, bringing transformation, hope and healing to places and people everywhere.
Darkness will begin to flee as the light of the glory of God begins to shine over every riding of our province and over every MLA. Righteousness will rise the like morning sun, not as the result of a political petition or protest but because the people of God across our province have touched heaven and asked God for his presence, blessing and touch upon the most beautiful place on earth because it is NOT by might, NOR by power, BUT BY MY SPIRIT says the Lord!!
Here's how we're going to do it. We've created an online prayer calendar http://www.leadinginfluence.com/PrayerDirectory.html that allows you to click on the day of the month and see the MLA we are praying for. At this point, we have the MLA and Riding names, plus some other information. As time goes on, our vision is to include specific information on each riding provided to us by the MLA. One of the things I'll be doing over the next few weeks as I meet MLA's in Victoria is to send them an email saying that we have people from across the province who are praying for them and asking God to bless them today. One day I'll be able to say we have 10,000 people praying for you and your riding today. That will be a VERY exciting time!
10,000 people seems like an impossible goal, but it's the goal that we will achieve as the Lord helps us. You can "join the team" and become part of transforming the spiritual atmosphere of our province by visiting our website http://www.leadinginfluence.com/PrayerDirectory.html Click the link at the bottom of the page and we'll add you to our next email blast going out n a few weeks.
Thanks for coming on board! I'll keep you posted on how we are doing!!
Unprecedented displays of the grace, mercy, wisdom and power of God will be seen in ways that have been previously unkown. Where it has seemed that God is on the outside looking in, He will suddenly be on the inside looking out, bringing transformation, hope and healing to places and people everywhere.
Darkness will begin to flee as the light of the glory of God begins to shine over every riding of our province and over every MLA. Righteousness will rise the like morning sun, not as the result of a political petition or protest but because the people of God across our province have touched heaven and asked God for his presence, blessing and touch upon the most beautiful place on earth because it is NOT by might, NOR by power, BUT BY MY SPIRIT says the Lord!!
Here's how we're going to do it. We've created an online prayer calendar http://www.leadinginfluence.com/PrayerDirectory.html that allows you to click on the day of the month and see the MLA we are praying for. At this point, we have the MLA and Riding names, plus some other information. As time goes on, our vision is to include specific information on each riding provided to us by the MLA. One of the things I'll be doing over the next few weeks as I meet MLA's in Victoria is to send them an email saying that we have people from across the province who are praying for them and asking God to bless them today. One day I'll be able to say we have 10,000 people praying for you and your riding today. That will be a VERY exciting time!
10,000 people seems like an impossible goal, but it's the goal that we will achieve as the Lord helps us. You can "join the team" and become part of transforming the spiritual atmosphere of our province by visiting our website http://www.leadinginfluence.com/PrayerDirectory.html Click the link at the bottom of the page and we'll add you to our next email blast going out n a few weeks.
Thanks for coming on board! I'll keep you posted on how we are doing!!
Saturday, January 27, 2007
"A man should be remembered by something more than...."
"A man should be remembered for something other than his worst mistake." The person who said it on the TV show I was watching was arguing for his life on a witness stand. It caught my attention because we so often want to label people in light of their worst mistake. He's a ... liar, thief, cheat, adulterer, murder, flake, fraud, etc, etc.
I hate labels personally. I don't like it when they are attached to me and yet, I am learing something about myself that I don't really like. I remember "stuff" that has happened to me and have attached labels to the lives of those who have done it. "Backstabber" "Hypocrite" "Liar" etc. etc. (There are other labels, but this is a public forum so we'll let them be unsaid...)
My point today is that while I dislike the labels that others have attached to me, I have been very willing to attach them to others. Not good... especially given that the bulk of my adult life has been in pastoral ministry... Now just so you know, I only attached labels to people who went out of there way to make my life miserable, but that still doesn't make it right.
All of this reminds me of a story I heard once about people putting labels on everybody tagging them with all of their faults, mistakes, failures and sin. Think about it if you will. A mass "labeling" event. Every label, every sin, every failure, every mistake, every flaw, plainly labeled and marked for everyone to see. You might think there would be some sense of humility in the room as it was very clear that everyone was in the same boat and no one was "label free".
Then Jesus comes into the room.... not to pass out yet more labels but instead to start removing labels. In removing the labels, people are set free from their past and able to live towards their future. (The story in it's entirety is far better and longer, but I think you get the point.)
Here's what I'm coming to learn about me. The labels that I have placed on people are there only as a result of my impression or experience with them at one particular point in time. They may well have moved on or past that kind of behaviour, position, attitude or whatever and yet they continue to be "there" in my mind because of the label that I have placed on them. This is really about forgiveness and "letting go". The reality of life is that it's just way to short to hold on to the junk of the past far beyond the life of the actual offense. So, I am choosing to be a "label lifter" rather than a "label placer".
As for the labels that others have placed on me, Jesus continues to come into my room and lift off labels. It feels good to be free!
Have a good one!
I hate labels personally. I don't like it when they are attached to me and yet, I am learing something about myself that I don't really like. I remember "stuff" that has happened to me and have attached labels to the lives of those who have done it. "Backstabber" "Hypocrite" "Liar" etc. etc. (There are other labels, but this is a public forum so we'll let them be unsaid...)
My point today is that while I dislike the labels that others have attached to me, I have been very willing to attach them to others. Not good... especially given that the bulk of my adult life has been in pastoral ministry... Now just so you know, I only attached labels to people who went out of there way to make my life miserable, but that still doesn't make it right.
All of this reminds me of a story I heard once about people putting labels on everybody tagging them with all of their faults, mistakes, failures and sin. Think about it if you will. A mass "labeling" event. Every label, every sin, every failure, every mistake, every flaw, plainly labeled and marked for everyone to see. You might think there would be some sense of humility in the room as it was very clear that everyone was in the same boat and no one was "label free".
Then Jesus comes into the room.... not to pass out yet more labels but instead to start removing labels. In removing the labels, people are set free from their past and able to live towards their future. (The story in it's entirety is far better and longer, but I think you get the point.)
Here's what I'm coming to learn about me. The labels that I have placed on people are there only as a result of my impression or experience with them at one particular point in time. They may well have moved on or past that kind of behaviour, position, attitude or whatever and yet they continue to be "there" in my mind because of the label that I have placed on them. This is really about forgiveness and "letting go". The reality of life is that it's just way to short to hold on to the junk of the past far beyond the life of the actual offense. So, I am choosing to be a "label lifter" rather than a "label placer".
As for the labels that others have placed on me, Jesus continues to come into my room and lift off labels. It feels good to be free!
Have a good one!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Walking Down the Street
I'm in Vancouver for a few days and saw the most amazing thing as I went for a walk from my hotel last night. There are lot of things that you see in Vancouver that you won't see anywhere else, but here's something new for you.... A toilet paper store! Yup. That's it. A toilet paper store that sells nothing but toilet paper. You can buy it by the roll, by the case, by the package or by the super mega roll that you see in public places, but all they sell is TP!
Only in Vancouver...
Tim
Only in Vancouver...
Tim
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Mr. Layton Comes To Kamloops
Jack Layton came to Kamloops today and while it was brief, I did have the chance to speak with him for a few moments today. He's a very real and down to earth person. While we didn't talk at length today, I would have liked to tell him that he has been a tremendous encouragement to me.
During the last federal election, I read a quote by Mr. Layton in the Canadian version of Christianity Today. Along with every other federal leader he was asked how he saw the relationship between faith and politics. The responses (loosely quoted...) were as follows:
Then PM Paul Martin (LIB) - "I leave my faith at the door because faith and politics shouldn't mix."
Stephen Harper (CPC) - said something to the effect that faith was a personal matter and while it would affect the life of the individual, he preferred not to comment. This isn't an exact quote by any means, but he did give a very careful answer.
Gille Duceppe (BQ)- "Faith and Politics should not be mixed. I refuse to answer because the question is inappropriate."
Jack Layton (NDP) - "Ottawa needs to hear the prophetic voice of the faith community."
Mr. Layton is right and now you see why I like him! I really see this as invitation to a visit with him in his Ottawa office. I couldn't help but think as I shook his hand that the day is coming when I will be able to sit in his office in Ottawa and share the prophetic voice of the faith community with him. I already know what I will say to him when that day comes and I'm really looking forward to it.
Here's what I know to be true. God is more interested in the hearts/lives of political leaders than He is in their politics. Sadly we have been more concerned with their politics and not enough with their hearts and lives.
I also know that when they meet Jesus (the real Jesus, not an intolerant, narrow and uptight concoction of who He is sometimes made out to be) that they will be attracted to His love for people and His desire to strengthen and transform their lives so that they can experience His love, grace and power and at the same time fulfill their true life purpose. All of this is because of His great love for them.
I'm starting to preach so I'm gonna leave it for now! Have a good one!!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Simply Amazing...
We were re-arranging some space in our house yesterday and found my journal from 2002. I hadn't looked at it for a few years so I opened it up and began flipping through to see what was going on in my life during that time. Some things I read made me smile, some things I read made me sad when I remembered the pain of those days. And then I flipped the page (there's probably something tremendously profound about that statement...) and read these words...
"I have a growing desire to create a "legislative chaplaincy" I remain very attracted to leaders and see an enormous need for godly leadership and influence at that level. This is very exciting to me, especially given the last 3 years of my life. The people that I have shared this with have been very positive and affirming which has been a tremendous confirmation to me.
This change would require me to:
1. Raise my own support - $100,000 annually
2. Create something new that would influence our nation.
3. Develop a whole new approach to life and ministry.
A thought I had this morning was "how do I reconcile what I believe about the local church (The local church is the only hope for the world...) AND where I see God taking me? Both are valid and neither are in conflict, it's just a matter of how do these two things fit together??"
Like you, I've heard people say over and over again that it's important that we write down our goals if we want to achieve them. Now I must confess that while I've written down goals in the past, it was mostly to "appease" whoever was leading the particular goal setting exercise that I was participating in. My thinking was "I believe, but help my unbelief..."
Five years after writing this down, I'm more of a believer than ever before.
God... You are SO AMAZING
Monday, January 15, 2007
You want to use me in which project??
We were all at breakfast this morning and there was discussion around ensuring that everyone, but Zack in particular had their homework done. Zack is in gr. 5 this year and in our school, gr. 5 is the year that the students do a heritage project. Over the years, we've done grandpa's and great grandpa's and it's all been quite interesting. After some discussion, Tyler suggested that Zack do his heritage project on me. I was shocked to say the least because at the ripe old age of 44 I hardly think of myself as qualifying for a heritage project. When I suggested that I might be a bit young for such a tremendous honor, Tyler was quick to remind me about how I always tell him that I rode dinosaurs to school. Due to my quick thinking (thanks to healthy doses of "Ginko" or whatever it's called...) I was able to redirect them back to studying a grandpa who actually lived in the "good old days".
Tyler has been grounded for the rest of his life for making such a crass suggestion.
Tim the fossil...
Tyler has been grounded for the rest of his life for making such a crass suggestion.
Tim the fossil...
Friday, January 12, 2007
Puppy Patrol...
I was having coffee with a friend in Victoria on Tuesday when Barb called to tell me that she couldn't find our VERY PREGNANT dog when she got home from work. After about 5 minutes of looking around and calling for her she heard some whining from under our deck. Zoe had rooted out some space among the rocks to deliver her litter. As we were on the phone the total went from 2 to 4 and over the next hour she had 8. One succumbed to the cold so there are only 7 in our house today. She had 4 yellow and 3 black puppies.
This is a classic case of Lady and the Tramp as the father wooed her away from us while we were out for a walk in the woods. By the time we caught up to them it was too late, he had made his mark (so to speak...) and it was a matter of waiting and watching. He isn't much to look at, but she's a beautiful dog and I'm hoping that her "Lab genes" have overpowered his gene pool.
I never cease to be amazed at the wonder of nature. Zoe has never seen a litter apart from her own and yet has managed to figure out nursing, protecting, caring and cleaning her offspring. It reminds me that if God is concerned enough about her puppies to provide them with a mother who will care for them, how much more will he care for us who are of much more value to him.
Speaking of value.... I know some puppies who will need a good home in about 6 weeks and they will go for cheap!! So .... if you're looking for a dog let me know.
Tim
This is a classic case of Lady and the Tramp as the father wooed her away from us while we were out for a walk in the woods. By the time we caught up to them it was too late, he had made his mark (so to speak...) and it was a matter of waiting and watching. He isn't much to look at, but she's a beautiful dog and I'm hoping that her "Lab genes" have overpowered his gene pool.
I never cease to be amazed at the wonder of nature. Zoe has never seen a litter apart from her own and yet has managed to figure out nursing, protecting, caring and cleaning her offspring. It reminds me that if God is concerned enough about her puppies to provide them with a mother who will care for them, how much more will he care for us who are of much more value to him.
Speaking of value.... I know some puppies who will need a good home in about 6 weeks and they will go for cheap!! So .... if you're looking for a dog let me know.
Tim
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Soar like an Albatross??
A friend shared this with me last week and I want to pass it on to you. This comes out of a dream that she had after she and her husband had just seen an incredible miracle in their lives. Apart from a few minor editing changes, I'm posting it as she sent it to me. I hope you enjoy it.
You need to develop the characteristics of long distance flying birds. The Lord showed me small parts of the birds extremely close up and with some other minor instructions the dream ended.
I studied these notes on the Albatross.
Good navigational skills involving accurate, orientation and assessment are needed. (I can understand that when praying) You need to store up fat (phat in the Lord) Albatrosses are highly efficient in the air, using dynamic soaring and slope soaring to cover great distances with little exertion. Not by might nor by power but by my Spirit says the Lord.
Dynamic soaring (this is good)
Dynamic soaring is a flying technique used to gain kinetic energy without effort by repeatedly crossing the boundary between air masses of significantly different horizontal velocity Such zones of high wind gradient are generally found close to obstacles (notice you need those obstacles) and close to the ground, so the technique is mainly used by birds, but glider pilots have occasionally been able to soar dynamically in meteorological wind shears at high altitudes. Sea birds dynamically soar by repeatedly diving into the valleys of ocean waves or sea billows (when sorrows like sea billows roar) and then wheeling back up into the air. Albatrosses are particularly adept at exploiting the technique and they use it to travel many thousands of miles using hardly any energy.
When the bird pulls up into the wind out of the still air in the lee of a wave, it suddenly becomes exposed to a head wind, so the speed of the air over its wings increases. It then turns in the other direction and, with the wind behind it, dives back into the shelter of a wave. This also results in an increase in its air-speed. So by repeating this "wheeling" pattern, the bird can continue flying indefinitely without having to put in any effort. In effect it is harvesting energy from the wind gradient.
Slope soaring requires a hill or a mountain (who doesn’t have those in their life, I know we did) and a wind that is blowing on the face of the hill or mountain. The wind will create a region of rising air directly in front of the hill which may extend quite a distance upwards and outwards from its face because the airflow follows the contour of the hill (this is called aerographic lift).
However at near vertical cliffs, there is usually an area of turbulence with descending air near the base of the cliff. Downwind of the hill, standing waves can form that are also used by glider pilots to gain height but this should not be confused with slope lift. The rising air from the slope is used to keep gliders airborne. Although a glider is always descending through the air, it will climb if the surrounding air is rising faster than the glider's sink rate. (Feel like your sinking in your problem?)
So what I gathered from all of this:
1. Good navigational skills involving accurate, orientation and assessment are needed. We need to be Phat in the Lord!! This is needed for our prayers to hit the mark.
2. Dynamic soaring is needed to build kinetic energy So that it is not by power or by strength but by my spirit says the Lord. No sense us flapping our wings without purpose.
3. Notice that the zones needed to catch these drafts involve obstacles!!! We may even need to use the valleys of ocean waves or sea billows.
4. Slope soaring requires a hill or a mountain to create a region of rising air. We need to use the mountains and hills in our life to acquire greater heights. In the last year facing some of the many obstacles, sea billows, and huge mountains, we learned to stand on God’s promises!!
Even in the darkest hours we prayed, trusting God’s word that tells us that "if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Rom 8:27-29
So I am not sure what you are facing or what 2007 will hold for us but as we stand in his strength and power no matter what obstacles, mountains or sea billows we face they can only be use as a means to cause us to soar to greater heights!!!!!!!!
Believe!! Soar high!!!!!!!! Don’t be discouraged!! Our God can do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask and pray.
Be Blessed!!
You need to develop the characteristics of long distance flying birds. The Lord showed me small parts of the birds extremely close up and with some other minor instructions the dream ended.
I studied these notes on the Albatross.
Good navigational skills involving accurate, orientation and assessment are needed. (I can understand that when praying) You need to store up fat (phat in the Lord) Albatrosses are highly efficient in the air, using dynamic soaring and slope soaring to cover great distances with little exertion. Not by might nor by power but by my Spirit says the Lord.
Dynamic soaring (this is good)
Dynamic soaring is a flying technique used to gain kinetic energy without effort by repeatedly crossing the boundary between air masses of significantly different horizontal velocity Such zones of high wind gradient are generally found close to obstacles (notice you need those obstacles) and close to the ground, so the technique is mainly used by birds, but glider pilots have occasionally been able to soar dynamically in meteorological wind shears at high altitudes. Sea birds dynamically soar by repeatedly diving into the valleys of ocean waves or sea billows (when sorrows like sea billows roar) and then wheeling back up into the air. Albatrosses are particularly adept at exploiting the technique and they use it to travel many thousands of miles using hardly any energy.
When the bird pulls up into the wind out of the still air in the lee of a wave, it suddenly becomes exposed to a head wind, so the speed of the air over its wings increases. It then turns in the other direction and, with the wind behind it, dives back into the shelter of a wave. This also results in an increase in its air-speed. So by repeating this "wheeling" pattern, the bird can continue flying indefinitely without having to put in any effort. In effect it is harvesting energy from the wind gradient.
Slope soaring requires a hill or a mountain (who doesn’t have those in their life, I know we did) and a wind that is blowing on the face of the hill or mountain. The wind will create a region of rising air directly in front of the hill which may extend quite a distance upwards and outwards from its face because the airflow follows the contour of the hill (this is called aerographic lift).
However at near vertical cliffs, there is usually an area of turbulence with descending air near the base of the cliff. Downwind of the hill, standing waves can form that are also used by glider pilots to gain height but this should not be confused with slope lift. The rising air from the slope is used to keep gliders airborne. Although a glider is always descending through the air, it will climb if the surrounding air is rising faster than the glider's sink rate. (Feel like your sinking in your problem?)
So what I gathered from all of this:
1. Good navigational skills involving accurate, orientation and assessment are needed. We need to be Phat in the Lord!! This is needed for our prayers to hit the mark.
2. Dynamic soaring is needed to build kinetic energy So that it is not by power or by strength but by my spirit says the Lord. No sense us flapping our wings without purpose.
3. Notice that the zones needed to catch these drafts involve obstacles!!! We may even need to use the valleys of ocean waves or sea billows.
4. Slope soaring requires a hill or a mountain to create a region of rising air. We need to use the mountains and hills in our life to acquire greater heights. In the last year facing some of the many obstacles, sea billows, and huge mountains, we learned to stand on God’s promises!!
Even in the darkest hours we prayed, trusting God’s word that tells us that "if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Rom 8:27-29
So I am not sure what you are facing or what 2007 will hold for us but as we stand in his strength and power no matter what obstacles, mountains or sea billows we face they can only be use as a means to cause us to soar to greater heights!!!!!!!!
Believe!! Soar high!!!!!!!! Don’t be discouraged!! Our God can do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask and pray.
Be Blessed!!
Sunday, January 07, 2007
And God said...
In the beginning there was chaos. There was nothing to see. Absolute darkness covered everything and it seemed like nothing was going on. And yet in the darkness, the Holy Spirit hovered over it all. He was there "brooding". A quick evaluation would say "there's not much happening here" and that would be accurate except that Holy Spirit was doing something unseen, unheard and undetected. He was preparing the chaos for the moment God said "Let there be..." so that when God spoke it something amazing could happen.
Understanding this incredible reality makes a huge difference in my life. It helps me to understand those periods of my life that make no sense to me in the natural. I've been blessed and have enjoyed some tremendous days of ministry when God was so close that at times it was as though you could smell Him. There have been other times when life and ministry felt a lot like I was banging my head against a wall and that God was nowhere to be found. Coming to recognize that He was at work in the chaos and preparing me for the next step when God spoke another "Let there be..." over my life, has brought tremendous healing and release to me.
You might feel as though God is far away and has forgotten your name and address. It may be that you are spinning your wheels and wondering what's going on in your life. Your life might even look more chaotic than ever before. It might look black for you, but the reality is that the Holy Spirit is hovering over it all, preparing you for the opportunities that will appear as suddenly as light came forth when God said "Let there be..."
So... don't give up or quit. Today may be the day God says "Let there be..." over your life.
Understanding this incredible reality makes a huge difference in my life. It helps me to understand those periods of my life that make no sense to me in the natural. I've been blessed and have enjoyed some tremendous days of ministry when God was so close that at times it was as though you could smell Him. There have been other times when life and ministry felt a lot like I was banging my head against a wall and that God was nowhere to be found. Coming to recognize that He was at work in the chaos and preparing me for the next step when God spoke another "Let there be..." over my life, has brought tremendous healing and release to me.
You might feel as though God is far away and has forgotten your name and address. It may be that you are spinning your wheels and wondering what's going on in your life. Your life might even look more chaotic than ever before. It might look black for you, but the reality is that the Holy Spirit is hovering over it all, preparing you for the opportunities that will appear as suddenly as light came forth when God said "Let there be..."
So... don't give up or quit. Today may be the day God says "Let there be..." over your life.
Friday, January 05, 2007
It can't be Friday... it was just Wednesday
So I had this idea that when I stopped working at iCompass that I would have more time to keep the blog current while I put myself into growing the ministry. Funny thing about ideas... they don't always work out the way you planned. It's been a great week and once the kids are back in school next week, my idea may actually become reality, but what a crazy week this has been....
I had my first MLA meeting on Wednesday. I can't share specifics except to say "WOW GOD!!" It's funny how we expect God to do big things and great things, but when He does it they are so often far beyond what we expected would happen that it surprises us. It's no wonder that Paul wrote about him as the One who is able to exceedingly above all we are able to ask or think or imagine. Wednesday was one of those days when He did just that. At the very least I will have a guest pass to both the speech from the throne and the budget speech and potentially something more longterm after that.
One of the things I can tell you is that there are many Christians in key positions of leadership within government and that God continues to open doors and arrange people as he sees fit. The devil has us convinced that we are always on the bottom never on the top, but the bible tells us that when we walk with HIM we are always on the TOP never on the BOTTOM! Based on what I learned on Wednesday, I'm not surprised that our province continues to be an economic leader in our nation based simply on the fact that the blessing of God ALWAYS flows from the TOP down. We are very blessed to be where we are.
Finally, I met a guy this week who makes wooden coins. Kind of cool thing that if you have them in your house, you can't put them down. Check them out at www.woodencoin.com
Tim
I had my first MLA meeting on Wednesday. I can't share specifics except to say "WOW GOD!!" It's funny how we expect God to do big things and great things, but when He does it they are so often far beyond what we expected would happen that it surprises us. It's no wonder that Paul wrote about him as the One who is able to exceedingly above all we are able to ask or think or imagine. Wednesday was one of those days when He did just that. At the very least I will have a guest pass to both the speech from the throne and the budget speech and potentially something more longterm after that.
One of the things I can tell you is that there are many Christians in key positions of leadership within government and that God continues to open doors and arrange people as he sees fit. The devil has us convinced that we are always on the bottom never on the top, but the bible tells us that when we walk with HIM we are always on the TOP never on the BOTTOM! Based on what I learned on Wednesday, I'm not surprised that our province continues to be an economic leader in our nation based simply on the fact that the blessing of God ALWAYS flows from the TOP down. We are very blessed to be where we are.
Finally, I met a guy this week who makes wooden coins. Kind of cool thing that if you have them in your house, you can't put them down. Check them out at www.woodencoin.com
Tim
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Big Day
I am PUMPED about Wednesday!
I'm starting off with a speaking engagement at 7:00 AM to a number of business people in our city. I've been with them before and it's nice to be invited back. The theme for the morning is "BHAGS". If that's something new to you, BHAGS are BIG HAIRY AUDACIOUS GOALS. You could think of them as the King Kong of all the goals we set and work towards. BHAGS are fun to dream and set for ourselves and even more fun to achieve.
I've got an appointment at 10 to secure a business opportunity that will pay the bills while we continue to lay a firm financial foundation for the ministry. Things are coming along, but I'm able to do some other things while we get this fully off the ground.
12:00 Noon - This marks a big moment for us as I have my first official meeting with an MLA for ministry purposes. I've known this person for a few years so I'm really looking forward to our time together. Pray that the Lord will be very present and will guide our conversation. I can hardly wait to see what God will do with this.
1:30 - Go to the Y and buy a Family Membership. Missions Trips, Christmas and a Youth Retreat do nasty things to your waistline.
Speaking about BHAGS, what's the one thing that would make 2007 an amazing year for you?
Tim
I'm starting off with a speaking engagement at 7:00 AM to a number of business people in our city. I've been with them before and it's nice to be invited back. The theme for the morning is "BHAGS". If that's something new to you, BHAGS are BIG HAIRY AUDACIOUS GOALS. You could think of them as the King Kong of all the goals we set and work towards. BHAGS are fun to dream and set for ourselves and even more fun to achieve.
I've got an appointment at 10 to secure a business opportunity that will pay the bills while we continue to lay a firm financial foundation for the ministry. Things are coming along, but I'm able to do some other things while we get this fully off the ground.
12:00 Noon - This marks a big moment for us as I have my first official meeting with an MLA for ministry purposes. I've known this person for a few years so I'm really looking forward to our time together. Pray that the Lord will be very present and will guide our conversation. I can hardly wait to see what God will do with this.
1:30 - Go to the Y and buy a Family Membership. Missions Trips, Christmas and a Youth Retreat do nasty things to your waistline.
Speaking about BHAGS, what's the one thing that would make 2007 an amazing year for you?
Tim
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