At some point over the Easter weekend, I started thinking about where the main events of Easter took place. Passion week begins with the Triumphal entry on Palm Sunday. The scene is outrageous as Jesus is the focal point in a massive public outpouring of affection and celebration. Count one public event. Jesus goes from there to the Temple. Rather than a safe church service, He makes a whip and drives out the money changers. What's always been interesting to me is that He's been there many times, but on this day, He addresses the corruption of the church culture. Count one church event.
The next few days are spent with His disciples. It's one massive download of teaching and encouragement. Count one for personal time spent with His disciples. On Thursday the disciples are instructed to rent a spot to celebrate Passover. That evening, Judas betrays Jesus in the Garden. Count two events in a public place. From there we go to the trial before the High Priest. (Count a second church event...)
From there to Pilate (3rd public event) and from there back to the square where the people chose between Barrabas and Jesus. From there to the streets of Jerusalem where Jesus carried His cross on the way to Calvary. (Public events 6. Church events 2, if you are keeping score.) From there to the Garden Tomb where Jesus lays for Friday Night, Saturday and early Sunday morning until He is raised from the dead. After that, He's seen in the garden, on the road to Emmaus (that's 7 appearances in public places) and then closes out the day with a visit with the disciples behind closed doors. Let's call that a church event.
By my count, that's 7 public events and 3 church events over the course of the most important week in Christendom. Do you think that there might be something important in those numbers? I do! I believe that God is pointing us to a key place in our society where He is constantly at work in the lives of people.
It used to be that the church was the centre of our culture and social fabric and that fulfilling our goal of reaching people was relatively easy. We were engaged and connected and for the most part people fell into our lap because they had a connection to us by default. The world has changed and more and more we find ourselves on the edge of the culture and disconnected from people who are wired differently than we are. We have to find a way to reverse this trend.
I'm convinced that the key is to become effective in the marketplace. It's the place where people spend the bulk of their time and where relationships are easily developed. Church leaders need to find ways to help their people to begin to live and work with a missional focus. Leaders can set the pace by intentionally engaging with people outside of their church. (Sports teams, service clubs, community and recreation groups.) Groups will be glad to have the opportunity to access your expertise and community insight. From there, it's a matter of being intentional about your relationships. Show people you really care about them. Invest in their lives. The church can manage for a few hours a week while you invest your time and energy into your community.
My greatest surprise in transitioning my ministry focus over the past 5 years is that God is constantly at work in the lives of people in the marketplace. Our part is easy. Watch and listen for the signs that He is at work and then track with Him. The journey is nothing but exciting! The rewards are out of this world!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
It's Purple Day! (National Epilepsy Awareness Day)
In the early fall of 2004, our youngest son crawled into bed with my wife and I in the middle of the night. It wasn't an every night occurence, but it also wasn't a huge surprise to us. Shortly after he settled down, he began to make some strange noises. Within 30 seconds we realized something was very wrong as he began to have a grand mal seizure. You have to remember it was dark, we were only half awake and the 2 minute event felt like it went on for an hour. Neither Barb or I had any context for what was happening. When he stopped convulsing, we weren't sure what to do next. His eyes closed, his body relaxed and after a few minutes everything seemed normal. I'm not sure that either one of us slept after that. He went to school and apart from being a bit tired, seemed fine. By the time we got to the doctor that afternoon, there was no indication that anything had happened. Our doctor assured us that a night seizure was not uncommon and that it was quite likely a once in a lifetime event. We appreciated his insight and proceeded as though it was behind us.
After several more events, we decided that we needed to take further action and so we visited our doctor again and he ordered some tests. The diagnosis was that our son had a form of childhood epilepsy. The good news was that as long as his seizures were limited to the night that he would most likely outgrow when he came into adolescence. His condition wasn't serious enough that he required medication, it was more just a matter of being attentive of the length and severity of the seizures. If they increased in their intensity or extended beyond several minutes, we were to call for medical assistance. We were fortunate that he shared a room with his older brother and that he was very good at letting us know if his younger brother was having a seizure.
It was scary and nerve wracking time for us. There were times that he was aware that 'something' had happened. There were other times when he just awoke after it was over and was tired and lethargic. Perhaps the most difficult time was when he had seizured in our bed during a night time visit at around 6 AM. He slept for about 30 minutes after it was over. When he awoke, we visited and chatted as everything seemed 'normal'. He announced he had to go to the bathroom and jumped off our bed to use the ensuite. When he wobbled and stumbled, Barb picked him up, got him to the bathroom and then brought him back to bed. He was a bit embarassed that he had fallen but we visited and talked together for a few minutes longer. He announced he was going back to his room and bounced out of our bed again. I will never forget his look of fear and confusion as he looked back after wobbling and falling again. I don't know that I've ever felt so powerless and helpless.
For almost 3 years to the day, we watched our son suffer grand mal seizures every couple of months. During that time, he played sports and remained a healthy and active boy. There were times when we thought we had an idea what caused the seizures and then other times where we were completely taken by surprise. What we ultimately learned is that you can't really predict when a seizure is going to happen.
Today is National Epilepsy Awareness Day or 'Purple Day'. I regret that I didn't realize that it was 'Purple Day' until it was too late to participate. Our son had his last seizure Thanksgiving weekend 2007. He is a healthy, athletic young man who is an A student. He is a student athlete and plays AAA baseball. We are very grateful for God's kindness to him and to us in this. We fully recognize that there are many parents, children and individuals who have not been as fortunate as we have been with this condition. Our experience has taught us that people with epilepsy are not fragile or disabled in some way. They are normal, bright, intelligent people who live with a condition that requires great courage and grace. Some suffer in ways that are largely unseen. Others experience seizures in very public ways. The temptation is to either stare or run. Try to avoid both. The person experiencing difficulty needs your help. Click here for more information on how to help someone experiencing a seizure.
After several more events, we decided that we needed to take further action and so we visited our doctor again and he ordered some tests. The diagnosis was that our son had a form of childhood epilepsy. The good news was that as long as his seizures were limited to the night that he would most likely outgrow when he came into adolescence. His condition wasn't serious enough that he required medication, it was more just a matter of being attentive of the length and severity of the seizures. If they increased in their intensity or extended beyond several minutes, we were to call for medical assistance. We were fortunate that he shared a room with his older brother and that he was very good at letting us know if his younger brother was having a seizure.
It was scary and nerve wracking time for us. There were times that he was aware that 'something' had happened. There were other times when he just awoke after it was over and was tired and lethargic. Perhaps the most difficult time was when he had seizured in our bed during a night time visit at around 6 AM. He slept for about 30 minutes after it was over. When he awoke, we visited and chatted as everything seemed 'normal'. He announced he had to go to the bathroom and jumped off our bed to use the ensuite. When he wobbled and stumbled, Barb picked him up, got him to the bathroom and then brought him back to bed. He was a bit embarassed that he had fallen but we visited and talked together for a few minutes longer. He announced he was going back to his room and bounced out of our bed again. I will never forget his look of fear and confusion as he looked back after wobbling and falling again. I don't know that I've ever felt so powerless and helpless.
For almost 3 years to the day, we watched our son suffer grand mal seizures every couple of months. During that time, he played sports and remained a healthy and active boy. There were times when we thought we had an idea what caused the seizures and then other times where we were completely taken by surprise. What we ultimately learned is that you can't really predict when a seizure is going to happen.
Today is National Epilepsy Awareness Day or 'Purple Day'. I regret that I didn't realize that it was 'Purple Day' until it was too late to participate. Our son had his last seizure Thanksgiving weekend 2007. He is a healthy, athletic young man who is an A student. He is a student athlete and plays AAA baseball. We are very grateful for God's kindness to him and to us in this. We fully recognize that there are many parents, children and individuals who have not been as fortunate as we have been with this condition. Our experience has taught us that people with epilepsy are not fragile or disabled in some way. They are normal, bright, intelligent people who live with a condition that requires great courage and grace. Some suffer in ways that are largely unseen. Others experience seizures in very public ways. The temptation is to either stare or run. Try to avoid both. The person experiencing difficulty needs your help. Click here for more information on how to help someone experiencing a seizure.
MLA John va Dongen (Abbotsford South) Joins BC Conservative Party
I've been attending Question Period for over 5 years. In that time, I've seen a lot of things. Some that make you laugh, some that make you shake your head and some that just make your wonder. After a while it's a bit of the same old, same old theatre that we call Question Period. I saw something new today....
At the end of Question Period MLA John van Dongen (Abbotsford South) stood up to make a personal statement. That's a bit unusual because statements usually happen before Question Period. It became more unusual as he began to speak. I was aware that he was unhappy with what was happening in his party and wasn't entirely surprised that he would choose to resign from the BC Liberals.
I was probably as surprised most other people when he announced he would be sitting as a member of the BC Conservative Party. It would be safe to say that heads swivelled and eyes grew wide as he made his announcement.
The expression 'crossing the floor' has always left me with the impression that the person actually crosses the floor. I can tell you that it doesn't really happen until the next day. In Mr. van Dongen's case, he won't really cross the floor at all, although he will sit with the independent members in the Legislature.
This marks the first time in a very long time that the BC Conservatives will have a member in the Legislature.
Change of this magnitude is never easy. This has been a difficult decision for Mr.van Dongen. We wish him well in his continued service to his constituents of Abbotsford South and encourage you to pray for him in the days to come.
At the end of Question Period MLA John van Dongen (Abbotsford South) stood up to make a personal statement. That's a bit unusual because statements usually happen before Question Period. It became more unusual as he began to speak. I was aware that he was unhappy with what was happening in his party and wasn't entirely surprised that he would choose to resign from the BC Liberals.
I was probably as surprised most other people when he announced he would be sitting as a member of the BC Conservative Party. It would be safe to say that heads swivelled and eyes grew wide as he made his announcement.
The expression 'crossing the floor' has always left me with the impression that the person actually crosses the floor. I can tell you that it doesn't really happen until the next day. In Mr. van Dongen's case, he won't really cross the floor at all, although he will sit with the independent members in the Legislature.
This marks the first time in a very long time that the BC Conservatives will have a member in the Legislature.
Change of this magnitude is never easy. This has been a difficult decision for Mr.van Dongen. We wish him well in his continued service to his constituents of Abbotsford South and encourage you to pray for him in the days to come.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Please .... Just DO it!!
I've spent the entire almost 50 years of my life connected to the church.( I wasn't born in a church, but I'm pretty sure I was taken there within hour of my arrival.) That doesn't make me perfect, but it does mean that I've seen and heard a few things along the way. As one of my former pastors used to say, 'I've been around the track more than once.'
I attended a prayer meeting recently. As sometimes happens in prayer meetings, people began to share certain things that they believed God wanted them to share with the group. That might sound unusual to some of you, but I believe that God does speak to people and that there are times when what He says should be shared with others who are there. In this particular meeting, the general theme of what was being shared was something like this:
Before you read further, let me say that you may not necessarily like what follows. I'm not saying it to be offensive or disrespectful. I just think that it needs to be said.
Imagine if you will, that the finalists for the 100M Olympic Gold Medal Final are on the track before the big race. The announcement goes out that the race is about to start and the athletes continue to mill about visiting with each other about how great the race is going to be. The announcement goes out again, and again, and again... and the athletes continue to mill about discussing how great the race is going to be. The announcement keeps repeating, the crowd keeps waiting and the athletes keep telling each other how great the race is going to be.
Kind of absurd don't you think? And yet I think I'm seeing it happen in the church. (If you are looking for the place where this gets edgy, here's the first spot...) Perhaps the church is so overexposed to the 'God is about to do the BIG thing' message that no one is stepping up to participate in the race.
Imagine with me again.... this time the athletes have responded to the announcement, they are all in the starting blocks, focused on the lane before them. They hear the starter say 'Ready.... Set .......' and again 'Ready...... Set ...... ' and again 'Ready...... Set......' and on and on it goes.... At some point one of the runners stands up and steps away from the blocks, others follow because they rightly conclude that the starter is never going to say 'GO'. (If you are still reading, here's the 2nd spot....) At some point those who were ready to run conclude that the race is never going to happen and walk away from the starting line. I've met enough disillusioned Christians who no longer believe that God is willing or able to do much of anything to know that the race that never starts has taken it's toll on the team.
There are at least 3 things that I know to be true:
1) God is ALWAYS doing a BIG thing. It's not as though He stops and starts depending on His mood. God's plans, purposes and thoughts are enormous! He has more in mind than what you and I can even begin to comprehend AND He is ALWAYS working to see those things come to pass. God is unstoppable We just don't always see it. Henry Blackaby (Experiencing God) says this: 'If you want to be a part of what God is doing, look around at what God is doing and join Him.' That is life changing insight if you put it into practice.
2) We have been given EVERYTHING we need to do ANYTHING that God is asking us to do.
Check this out:
Luke 10:19 - I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the power of enemy. Nothing will harm you. (Jesus)
Eph 1:3 - Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Acts 1:8 - You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you... (Jesus)
Are you seeing a pattern? have given past tense, overcome all complete domination, every spiritual blessing (the full meal deal....) There are many more, but there's not enough time today.
A few years ago, I was given a motorcycle. It was completely unexpected and very appreciated. I love to ride it! When it arrived, the ownership papers were in my name. The keys were there and it was ready to ride. If I had parked it in the garage and went into the house hoping that some day I would have a motorcycle that was mine, anyone who knew the story would be concerned for my state of mind. The giver would have been disappointed that I had not chosen to enjoy what he had generously provided for me. My friends would have wondered why I had never put the key in the ignition and taken it for a ride. Even my wife, who was a bit nervous about it would have encouraged me to go for a ride.
It's bad theology to sit around waiting to receive that which is already given to us. It makes us look foolish. It also leaves us tremendously under-resourced. Our unwillingness to lay hold of what has been given to us has incapacitated us and rendered us ineffective when it comes to participating in God's BIG Thing.
3) Nike has a fantastic marketing slogan. 'Just Do It' has inspired people all around the world to get active, train, compete and just enjoy a healthy lifestyle all while wearing Nike gear. Deep inside of me, I think the single most important message that God has for the church is:
We've talked enough, trained enough, dreamed enough, even prayed enough. Now it's just time to get it done! Game On!!
I attended a prayer meeting recently. As sometimes happens in prayer meetings, people began to share certain things that they believed God wanted them to share with the group. That might sound unusual to some of you, but I believe that God does speak to people and that there are times when what He says should be shared with others who are there. In this particular meeting, the general theme of what was being shared was something like this:
'God is calling us to wake up because He is getting ready to do something.'
and
'He is about to give us the tools to do what He is asking us to do.'
Before you read further, let me say that you may not necessarily like what follows. I'm not saying it to be offensive or disrespectful. I just think that it needs to be said.
Imagine if you will, that the finalists for the 100M Olympic Gold Medal Final are on the track before the big race. The announcement goes out that the race is about to start and the athletes continue to mill about visiting with each other about how great the race is going to be. The announcement goes out again, and again, and again... and the athletes continue to mill about discussing how great the race is going to be. The announcement keeps repeating, the crowd keeps waiting and the athletes keep telling each other how great the race is going to be.
Kind of absurd don't you think? And yet I think I'm seeing it happen in the church. (If you are looking for the place where this gets edgy, here's the first spot...) Perhaps the church is so overexposed to the 'God is about to do the BIG thing' message that no one is stepping up to participate in the race.
Imagine with me again.... this time the athletes have responded to the announcement, they are all in the starting blocks, focused on the lane before them. They hear the starter say 'Ready.... Set .......' and again 'Ready...... Set ...... ' and again 'Ready...... Set......' and on and on it goes.... At some point one of the runners stands up and steps away from the blocks, others follow because they rightly conclude that the starter is never going to say 'GO'. (If you are still reading, here's the 2nd spot....) At some point those who were ready to run conclude that the race is never going to happen and walk away from the starting line. I've met enough disillusioned Christians who no longer believe that God is willing or able to do much of anything to know that the race that never starts has taken it's toll on the team.
There are at least 3 things that I know to be true:
1) God is ALWAYS doing a BIG thing. It's not as though He stops and starts depending on His mood. God's plans, purposes and thoughts are enormous! He has more in mind than what you and I can even begin to comprehend AND He is ALWAYS working to see those things come to pass. God is unstoppable We just don't always see it. Henry Blackaby (Experiencing God) says this: 'If you want to be a part of what God is doing, look around at what God is doing and join Him.' That is life changing insight if you put it into practice.
2) We have been given EVERYTHING we need to do ANYTHING that God is asking us to do.
Check this out:
Luke 10:19 - I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the power of enemy. Nothing will harm you. (Jesus)
Eph 1:3 - Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Acts 1:8 - You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you... (Jesus)
Are you seeing a pattern? have given past tense, overcome all complete domination, every spiritual blessing (the full meal deal....) There are many more, but there's not enough time today.
A few years ago, I was given a motorcycle. It was completely unexpected and very appreciated. I love to ride it! When it arrived, the ownership papers were in my name. The keys were there and it was ready to ride. If I had parked it in the garage and went into the house hoping that some day I would have a motorcycle that was mine, anyone who knew the story would be concerned for my state of mind. The giver would have been disappointed that I had not chosen to enjoy what he had generously provided for me. My friends would have wondered why I had never put the key in the ignition and taken it for a ride. Even my wife, who was a bit nervous about it would have encouraged me to go for a ride.
It's bad theology to sit around waiting to receive that which is already given to us. It makes us look foolish. It also leaves us tremendously under-resourced. Our unwillingness to lay hold of what has been given to us has incapacitated us and rendered us ineffective when it comes to participating in God's BIG Thing.
3) Nike has a fantastic marketing slogan. 'Just Do It' has inspired people all around the world to get active, train, compete and just enjoy a healthy lifestyle all while wearing Nike gear. Deep inside of me, I think the single most important message that God has for the church is:
'Just DO IT!'
We've talked enough, trained enough, dreamed enough, even prayed enough. Now it's just time to get it done! Game On!!
Friday, March 16, 2012
reVision Conference Comes To Victoria
God goes to work Monday to Friday! God's interest in the marketplace isn't something new. The real action in the Early Church happened in the marketplace.Within a few years, the Early Church had filled Jerusalem, a multicultural, metropolitan city, with the good news of Jesus! Within 300 years of the birth of the Christ, the Roman Empire officially converted to Christianity.
Most of us want to make the exploits of the early church about spiritual 'superheroes' who were more gifted, more talented and more 'spiritual' than we are. Nothing could be further from the truth! Transforming the marketplace is a key part of God's plan for your city. He is at work in the marketplace today through people just like you!
1) We want you to see what God is doing in our city and region in Social Services, Business, Government and the Church. We want to give you the opportunity to reVision (see again) what God is doing around you.
2) We want you to see how you can be a part of the change that is taking place all around you. God is up to something in our city and we want to inspire you to be a part of it!
3) We want to help connect you to with other believers who are just as interested as you are in seeing God do something amazing in our city. There are other Christians in your sphere of influence that you will meet at reVision. Click the logo to learn more!
Most of us want to make the exploits of the early church about spiritual 'superheroes' who were more gifted, more talented and more 'spiritual' than we are. Nothing could be further from the truth! Transforming the marketplace is a key part of God's plan for your city. He is at work in the marketplace today through people just like you!
reVision has been designed with three specific goals in mind.
1) We want you to see what God is doing in our city and region in Social Services, Business, Government and the Church. We want to give you the opportunity to reVision (see again) what God is doing around you.
2) We want you to see how you can be a part of the change that is taking place all around you. God is up to something in our city and we want to inspire you to be a part of it!
3) We want to help connect you to with other believers who are just as interested as you are in seeing God do something amazing in our city. There are other Christians in your sphere of influence that you will meet at reVision. Click the logo to learn more!
Building Great Churches.... or not.....
'If building great churches was going to change the world, it would have happened by now.' The comment was slipped into a humourous and fast paced message designed to relax the largely pastoral crowd so that the speaker could make his very important point. His point? The key to the future for the Church is to see and think bigger than the church. I realize that sounds like a bit of a contradiction, but it's really not.
I believe in the Church. (The greek word is 'ecclessia' and means 'those who are called out.') I also believe in the local church. (A community of believers that fellowship together.) It's just that sometimes the local church can get it's priorities mixed up. I know this because I worked in the local church for 25 years. Pastors, leaders and 'the people' all contribute to our periodic loss of focus. We fall into the place where we forget that our greatest priority isn't us! It's easy to get focused on other things. We don't like the music. (I always do because my wife is the worship director at our church.) We don't like the preaching. We don't like the programs, we don't like... well you can fill in the blanks. The church isn't perfect because it's made up of imperfect people and imperfect leaders. All of that said, the local church is the best place to learn, grow, give and stay accountable.
Our greatest challenge is the belief that we are most likely to change the world through our weekend gatherings. We've got some great weekend gatherings, but I've learned something in the past 5 years. Here it is: There's some really great stuff that happens on Sunday morning that has nothing to do with church. Shocking I know...
I've also learned that some of the people who are most open to what the church has to offer have no interest in attending church because Sunday is their only down day or family day. A better church service isn't going to draw people from the ball park, soccer pitch, jogging trail, boat launch, ski hill or arena for Sunday morning church.
This leaves us with one of two choices. We either abandon the many who aren't going to darken our doors OR we release the church to be the Church outside of the church. I think that God does His best work outside the walls of the church, in fact I KNOW that He does. That's not to minimize what happens inside the church, it just means that there's a greater need outside the walls and He's committed to reaching people there. Here's the most outrageous part... He plans to do it without the 'professionals'. He wants to do it through you and people just like you.
Now I know that might sound a bit intimidating, but it's not that hard. It's really just about building relationships with people and letting your faith be a normal part of your everyday life. Listen for opportunities to commit to pray for them. Watch for ways to serve, support and just generally love your neighbour. It won't be long until the person you are reaching out to starts asking you questions and embarks on a journey of faith where you'll have a front row seat. Don't miss the opportunity! It's the adventure of a life time!
I believe in the Church. (The greek word is 'ecclessia' and means 'those who are called out.') I also believe in the local church. (A community of believers that fellowship together.) It's just that sometimes the local church can get it's priorities mixed up. I know this because I worked in the local church for 25 years. Pastors, leaders and 'the people' all contribute to our periodic loss of focus. We fall into the place where we forget that our greatest priority isn't us! It's easy to get focused on other things. We don't like the music. (I always do because my wife is the worship director at our church.) We don't like the preaching. We don't like the programs, we don't like... well you can fill in the blanks. The church isn't perfect because it's made up of imperfect people and imperfect leaders. All of that said, the local church is the best place to learn, grow, give and stay accountable.
Our greatest challenge is the belief that we are most likely to change the world through our weekend gatherings. We've got some great weekend gatherings, but I've learned something in the past 5 years. Here it is: There's some really great stuff that happens on Sunday morning that has nothing to do with church. Shocking I know...
I've also learned that some of the people who are most open to what the church has to offer have no interest in attending church because Sunday is their only down day or family day. A better church service isn't going to draw people from the ball park, soccer pitch, jogging trail, boat launch, ski hill or arena for Sunday morning church.
This leaves us with one of two choices. We either abandon the many who aren't going to darken our doors OR we release the church to be the Church outside of the church. I think that God does His best work outside the walls of the church, in fact I KNOW that He does. That's not to minimize what happens inside the church, it just means that there's a greater need outside the walls and He's committed to reaching people there. Here's the most outrageous part... He plans to do it without the 'professionals'. He wants to do it through you and people just like you.
Now I know that might sound a bit intimidating, but it's not that hard. It's really just about building relationships with people and letting your faith be a normal part of your everyday life. Listen for opportunities to commit to pray for them. Watch for ways to serve, support and just generally love your neighbour. It won't be long until the person you are reaching out to starts asking you questions and embarks on a journey of faith where you'll have a front row seat. Don't miss the opportunity! It's the adventure of a life time!
Thursday, March 01, 2012
'If the Lord Is With Us, WHY????'
I love the unrefined 'rawness' of the Bible. It shows people as they really were and how they responded in the moment. Gideon is one of my favourite bible characters. Here's a guy with no expectation, no hope for the future and no desire to do anything more than find a way to care for his family. In the midst of a midnight threshing session, an angels appears and delivers a startling and contextually (at least for anyone on this planet) absurd message.
God is with you! You are a mighty warrior. He will use you to deliver your people from their oppressors. The message is grandiose, large and in the natural, COMPLETELY IMPOSSIBLE. Gideon has no track record of greatness, no leadership record, no military experience and no desire or interest in being a deliverer. God is looking for a deliverer. Gideon just wants to feed his family. It doesn't look like a good fit. All indicators point to a disaster in the making.
Gideon's first response is telling. 'If the Lord is with us why are all these things happening to us?' Gideon went on to ask about miracles, signs, wonders and moments of divine intervention all through the history of his people. From the outside looking in, it appeared that God had forgotten Gideon and his people. Nothing big had happened for a long time, but God was doing more than Gideon thought He was.
Gideon isn't alone in thinking small about what God is or isn't doing. Many of us fall prey to thinking that God isn't doing much because we don't see it happening on the surface. We look at our relationships, finances, health issues, churches, communities, etc, etc and we are sometimes baited into believing that God isn't at work and that He isn't interested in working on our behalf. Nothing could be further from the truth. Both are lies designed to convince you that you no longer matter in God's grand plan. In spite of what you may see or not see as you look around you, God has not stopped working and he certainly hasn't given up on you!
Here's what I've learned to be true again, just over the last few weeks: God is ALWAYS doing more than we think He is. In this month alone, on both a personal and ministry level, I have been astounded by what He has been doing behind the scenes when it appeared that nothing was happening in places where I really wanted it to. In this week alone, I have been astounded at how busy God has been behind the scenes in the lives of MLA's in ways that were completely unknown to me. It's remarkable and exciting. At times it's overwhelming to see just how much He is doing. I've learned that a member has for the first time in his life, decided to read the bible. That's always a good thing! Another shared some deeply personal things with me and I had the opportunity to pray with him.
I don't know what you are facing in your life today. It may be that you've begun to believe that God has moved on to other people and other challenges and has left you alone and forgotten. God is doing more than you think He is today. Romans tells us that He is working out all things together for our good! Believe it! Expect it! Don't settle for anything else!
God is ALWAYS doing more than you THINK He is!
God is with you! You are a mighty warrior. He will use you to deliver your people from their oppressors. The message is grandiose, large and in the natural, COMPLETELY IMPOSSIBLE. Gideon has no track record of greatness, no leadership record, no military experience and no desire or interest in being a deliverer. God is looking for a deliverer. Gideon just wants to feed his family. It doesn't look like a good fit. All indicators point to a disaster in the making.
Gideon's first response is telling. 'If the Lord is with us why are all these things happening to us?' Gideon went on to ask about miracles, signs, wonders and moments of divine intervention all through the history of his people. From the outside looking in, it appeared that God had forgotten Gideon and his people. Nothing big had happened for a long time, but God was doing more than Gideon thought He was.
Gideon isn't alone in thinking small about what God is or isn't doing. Many of us fall prey to thinking that God isn't doing much because we don't see it happening on the surface. We look at our relationships, finances, health issues, churches, communities, etc, etc and we are sometimes baited into believing that God isn't at work and that He isn't interested in working on our behalf. Nothing could be further from the truth. Both are lies designed to convince you that you no longer matter in God's grand plan. In spite of what you may see or not see as you look around you, God has not stopped working and he certainly hasn't given up on you!
Here's what I've learned to be true again, just over the last few weeks: God is ALWAYS doing more than we think He is. In this month alone, on both a personal and ministry level, I have been astounded by what He has been doing behind the scenes when it appeared that nothing was happening in places where I really wanted it to. In this week alone, I have been astounded at how busy God has been behind the scenes in the lives of MLA's in ways that were completely unknown to me. It's remarkable and exciting. At times it's overwhelming to see just how much He is doing. I've learned that a member has for the first time in his life, decided to read the bible. That's always a good thing! Another shared some deeply personal things with me and I had the opportunity to pray with him.
I don't know what you are facing in your life today. It may be that you've begun to believe that God has moved on to other people and other challenges and has left you alone and forgotten. God is doing more than you think He is today. Romans tells us that He is working out all things together for our good! Believe it! Expect it! Don't settle for anything else!
God is ALWAYS doing more than you THINK He is!
Friday, February 10, 2012
It's Time
Our vision is to be a national ministry that provides pastoral care to elected officials at the Provincial and Federal level. For the past 5 years we have spent our time building, learning, networking and growing LIM here in BC. I don't know that we have it all 'figured out', but we know more than we did when we started about what works, why it works and how it works. Late last year, I began to feel like it was 'time' to start the process of building the ministry in Alberta and so I began the process of praying, planning and thinking through the challenges of doing that. During that time, I discovered that the Alberta District of the PAOC was holding their annual conference in Banff in early February.
(I know what you're thinking... Banff... in February.... that must be a real sacrifice.... All I can say is that missions work sometimes requires us to make sacrifice....)
I returned home last night after 3 days of networking, connecting, relationship building and sharing the vision of Leading Influence Ministries with pastors and leaders in Alberta. We met some great people who were very friendly and caught the attention of some influencers who are willing to help us learn what we need to know in Alberta to be effective in ministry there.
As I flew home last night, I began to make a list of all of the things that need to happen so that LIM Alberta can become a reality in 2012. It's an enormous list that reminds me of the mountains that surround Banff. They are tall... big and in the natural, very 'unmovable'.The main conference speaker was Denny Duron from Shreveport, LA. I last heard Denny preach at a youth conference in Thunder Bay, Ontario about 32 years ago. It was at that Conference where I decided that regardless of what it might cost me, I was going to give the rest of my life to living for Jesus. I was able to have a coffee with him during the conference and share that moment with him.
One of the 'take-away' statements from the week that Denny shared with us gives me great hope for the future. 'GOD is ALWAYS doing MORE than YOU think He is.' If you say it slowly and ponder the emphasized words, it will encourage you too.
When we began LIM in BC, we had no network, no experience, no history, because no one had done anything like this before... and no successes. We were launching on the simple faith that God had called us and that HE was going to do something with us. Upon arrival, we discovered that God had been doing MUCH MORE than what we thought He was doing and the ground and hearts of people had already been prepared to receive what LIM was offering. We believe the same is true in Alberta. We believe that EVERYTHING we need to be effective in Alberta is already provided for us. The people, resources, networks and opportunities to see this transition from a dream into substance are already in place. We just have to take the steps to see it happen.
I have 3 things I'd like to ask of you. The first is that you would pray for us. We need significant prayer support to make this a reality. Secondly, tell your Alberta friends about what we are doing. We need to develop a network of people who will help us get LIM off the ground in AB. Finally, some of you may be stirred to help us financially. In the early stages, I will be the primary contact and 'face' of LIM AB. That will help us get started. It will also be very costly in terms of travel expenses because neither WestJet nor AirCanada has begun a free ticket initiative, but we keep hoping.... In the meantime, if you'd like to help us, click here. You'll be taken to our CanadaHelps page where you can give by credit card. If you'd like to give by cheque, you can mail to:
Leading Influence Ministries
626 Blanshard St
Victoria, BC V8W 3G6
Thursday, January 05, 2012
The City God Builds...
From To Transform A City (Swanson and Williams)
Have you ever asked yourself 'If God were to build a city from the ground up, what would it look like? Amazingly, there are actually passages of Scripture that describe such a city. These elements come from Isaiah 65:17:25
1) There is joy. (v. 19)
2) There is absence of weeping and crying. (v. 19)
3) There is no infant mortality. (v. 20)
4) People live out their full lives. (v. 20)
5) People will build houses and live in them. (v. 21-22)
6) People will sow and reap. (v.21-22)
7) There is fulfilling and work (v. 22)
8) There is confidence that the next generation will have a better life. (v. 23)
9) People experience the blessing of God. (v. 23)
10) There is intergenerational family support with family structures intact. (v. 23)
11) There are rapid answers to prayer. (v.24)
12) There is an absence of violence. (v.25)
Have you ever asked yourself 'If God were to build a city from the ground up, what would it look like? Amazingly, there are actually passages of Scripture that describe such a city. These elements come from Isaiah 65:17:25
1) There is joy. (v. 19)
2) There is absence of weeping and crying. (v. 19)
3) There is no infant mortality. (v. 20)
4) People live out their full lives. (v. 20)
5) People will build houses and live in them. (v. 21-22)
6) People will sow and reap. (v.21-22)
7) There is fulfilling and work (v. 22)
8) There is confidence that the next generation will have a better life. (v. 23)
9) People experience the blessing of God. (v. 23)
10) There is intergenerational family support with family structures intact. (v. 23)
11) There are rapid answers to prayer. (v.24)
12) There is an absence of violence. (v.25)
Friday, December 16, 2011
The Year In Review
Near the end of December, my sons and I sit down and watch multiple versions of the best sports Plays of the Year. We laugh, cheer, replay and 'wow' our way through at least one hour (but usually several...) of some of our favourite moments. As much as I enjoy that time, the opportunity to recall the good things that God has done for LIM in the past year is much more satisfying to me. God has been very good to us in 2011. Because of what we do, we aren't able to share everything with you, but here the best of what we can. We hope you enjoy it!
January - With the help of some good friends, we revamped all of our print and web material and developed some new tools to assist us in resource development. That might not sound very exciting, but we were in desperate need of some help in this area. God brought some key people to us at just the right time.
February - The Legislature resumed with a very unique climate. Both parties were in a leadership race. In the midst of it all, we were able to renew the ever important ministry relationships that are the foundation of our work. I was also able to attend the Liberal leadership election in Vancouver.
March - I attended the swearing in ceremony for the new Premier and Cabinet at Government House. It's always an honour to be present for special moments like this. It gives us opportunity to connect with new minister and communicate our intention to serve them and pray for them.
April - The NDP selected Adrian Dix as their new leader. The Legislature resumed regular sittings at the end of April in yet another new environment. It would be safe to say that change was a constant factor for us through the spring.
May - We hosted our 5th Annual MLA Prayer Breakfast. This is our showcase event and we had our best response ever. 23 Members and a total of almost 150 guests joined us for breakfast in what has become a highlight for the Members. Our speaker was Corey Toews from Level Ground Coffee. Corey did an amazing job for us. If you see Level Ground Coffee at the store, buy a package and support a company with a conscience!
June - Featured our first ever Ironman of Golf. Tim played 100 holes of golf in a single day as a fundraiser for a travel budget through the summer. Because of the infrequency of sitting days in the spring, we wanted to have the freedom to connect with members through the summer. Olympic View Golf Course was a fantastic venue and the event was a huge success because so many were so generous. Thanks again for your support! Wait till you see what happened in July because you gave!
July - Was INCREDIBLE! Tim and Barb were invited to attend a Caucus retreat at Harrison Hot Springs. (it's tough, but someone has to go!) This opportunity may have been the most important 24 hours of our summer. By God's grace we saw a marriage restored and an MLA's wife come to faith in Christ over the week that followed because we were able to be present and provide them with the support and ministry that they needed at that time.
August - We took some vacation time and visited a number of churches to share the work and vision of LIM.
September - Marked the beginning of fundraising season. We help fundraisers in Kamloops, Langley and Victoria. We are always appreciative of the support that we receive at these events and more importantly, the relationships that we begin, strengthen and renew. The relationships are always the best part.
October - The Legislature resumed with a new Throne Speech and Agenda. It also marked the beginning of our best fall season thus far. Not a day has gone by without some meaningful interaction with at least one MLA. In the first 2 weeks of the session, I was able to pray with at least one MLA every day. This is another remarkable first for us.
November - Early in the month, I received word from a Minister's aide expressing interest in starting a bi-partisan prayer meeting. This is an answer to a long held goal. Our initial meting has been re-scheduled to late December, but I'll keep you posted. On another note, we were able to assist Christian Embassy from Ottawa by coordinating a meeting between an MLA and two visiting Ambassadors. We met in the Cabinet offices in Vancouver which was another first for us.
December - Our December story has yet to be written, but we are confident that it will be as remarkable as the rest of 2011 has been. Our hope is to finish the year in a strong financial position that will allow us to be positioned to launch LIM in Alberta in 2012. Click here if you would like to partner with us by giving online. If you would like to give by cheque, please ensure that your gift is postmarked by Dec 31. We know that God is faithful and good and are confident that we will reach our goal!
Our prayer for you in 2012 is that it will be abundant and overflowing with God's goodness and blessing in every part of your life, home, business and relationships. Thanks again for your partnership and for standing with us! May you be abundantly blessed in the New Year.
January - With the help of some good friends, we revamped all of our print and web material and developed some new tools to assist us in resource development. That might not sound very exciting, but we were in desperate need of some help in this area. God brought some key people to us at just the right time.
February - The Legislature resumed with a very unique climate. Both parties were in a leadership race. In the midst of it all, we were able to renew the ever important ministry relationships that are the foundation of our work. I was also able to attend the Liberal leadership election in Vancouver.
March - I attended the swearing in ceremony for the new Premier and Cabinet at Government House. It's always an honour to be present for special moments like this. It gives us opportunity to connect with new minister and communicate our intention to serve them and pray for them.
April - The NDP selected Adrian Dix as their new leader. The Legislature resumed regular sittings at the end of April in yet another new environment. It would be safe to say that change was a constant factor for us through the spring.
May - We hosted our 5th Annual MLA Prayer Breakfast. This is our showcase event and we had our best response ever. 23 Members and a total of almost 150 guests joined us for breakfast in what has become a highlight for the Members. Our speaker was Corey Toews from Level Ground Coffee. Corey did an amazing job for us. If you see Level Ground Coffee at the store, buy a package and support a company with a conscience!
June - Featured our first ever Ironman of Golf. Tim played 100 holes of golf in a single day as a fundraiser for a travel budget through the summer. Because of the infrequency of sitting days in the spring, we wanted to have the freedom to connect with members through the summer. Olympic View Golf Course was a fantastic venue and the event was a huge success because so many were so generous. Thanks again for your support! Wait till you see what happened in July because you gave!
July - Was INCREDIBLE! Tim and Barb were invited to attend a Caucus retreat at Harrison Hot Springs. (it's tough, but someone has to go!) This opportunity may have been the most important 24 hours of our summer. By God's grace we saw a marriage restored and an MLA's wife come to faith in Christ over the week that followed because we were able to be present and provide them with the support and ministry that they needed at that time.
August - We took some vacation time and visited a number of churches to share the work and vision of LIM.
September - Marked the beginning of fundraising season. We help fundraisers in Kamloops, Langley and Victoria. We are always appreciative of the support that we receive at these events and more importantly, the relationships that we begin, strengthen and renew. The relationships are always the best part.
October - The Legislature resumed with a new Throne Speech and Agenda. It also marked the beginning of our best fall season thus far. Not a day has gone by without some meaningful interaction with at least one MLA. In the first 2 weeks of the session, I was able to pray with at least one MLA every day. This is another remarkable first for us.
November - Early in the month, I received word from a Minister's aide expressing interest in starting a bi-partisan prayer meeting. This is an answer to a long held goal. Our initial meting has been re-scheduled to late December, but I'll keep you posted. On another note, we were able to assist Christian Embassy from Ottawa by coordinating a meeting between an MLA and two visiting Ambassadors. We met in the Cabinet offices in Vancouver which was another first for us.
December - Our December story has yet to be written, but we are confident that it will be as remarkable as the rest of 2011 has been. Our hope is to finish the year in a strong financial position that will allow us to be positioned to launch LIM in Alberta in 2012. Click here if you would like to partner with us by giving online. If you would like to give by cheque, please ensure that your gift is postmarked by Dec 31. We know that God is faithful and good and are confident that we will reach our goal!
Our prayer for you in 2012 is that it will be abundant and overflowing with God's goodness and blessing in every part of your life, home, business and relationships. Thanks again for your partnership and for standing with us! May you be abundantly blessed in the New Year.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Trip #50
On the day I turned 10 years old, I had something of an 'aha' moment. I remember pondering the fact that at point in my life I had travelled around the sun 10 times. 10 winters, 10 springs, 10 summers and 10 falls, over half of them spent in Ignace, Ontario. In my 10 year old mind, it seemed like that everyone one of those trips took a long, long time.
I begin trip #50 around the sun today. They don't seem to take as long as they used to. On the contrary, it feels as though time has accelerated in so many ways. Where my summers at 10 were filled with vacations, lake days and trips to the farm, today my summers are filled with shuttling sons to baseball, travelling to speak in churches with a couple of weeks of downtime at the beach. Gone are the 'farmer tan' arms that used to mark my summer seasons. When I was 10, I thought I might want to have an 'outside' job. After 30 years of working, I'll say that there's nothing wrong with an outside job, but I am really thankful for an 'inside' career on days when the rain is going sideways.
As part of my job at one point along the way, I met an elderly lady named Mrs. Wilson. When you asked her how old she was, she would respond by telling you what 'year' she was in vs. what birthday she last celebrated. When she was 89, she spent a whole year telling everyone that she was in her 90th year. With respect to Mrs. Wilson, I've been thinking a lot about what I want to accomplish in my 50th year. I know enough about human nature in general and my nature in particular to know that the likelihood of achieving the things that I want to accomplish increases dramatically if I write them down and tell someone. These are in no particular order. Consider this both the writing and the telling.
1) I want to complete a book. I've been thinking, talking and dreaming about this for a long time. Somewhere on a CD or hard drive the 'bones' of the book already exist in file form. I am not getting any younger or any less busy. I will complete my book before my 50th birthday.
2) I've lost just over 20lbs this year through changing my diet and by exercise. I competed in my first half marathon with a respectable time of 2:05:30. Before I am 50 years old, I'd like to lose another 10lbs, complete a marathon and challenge the same Half Marathon in the fall and come in under 2:00.
3) I will become 'kinder and gentler'. I have heard two statements about other people that have challenged me significantly in the past few weeks. The first is that apologizing doesn't mean you are wrong. It means you care enough about the relationship to do whatever it takes to preserve it. That has been very challenging. I heard the 2nd statement at a funeral yesterday. 'He combated thorns by planting roses.' If nothing else, I'd like to give myself to planting roses in the lives of other people. They look good, smell nice and communicate value.
4) I need to 'go deeper' in my walk with Christ. The longer I do what I do, I come to the conclusion that in order to do this well, I need to become much more like Jesus. At a distance, 'what would Jesus do?' is easily answered. The longer I am engaged in this role, the more elusive the answer becomes because this is not a black and white world and yes to some good things often means 'no' to other good things. I need to dig deeper wells that will sustain and renew me as I serve where I do.
5) By this time next year, I want to see Leading Influence established in at least one other province. We are at a place where it's time to take the next step. In order to do that, we need to find entrepreneurial, risk taking leaders who are willing to take on this kind of a challenge. It's not easy, but it's very worthwhile! It's time to get it done.
I begin trip #50 around the sun today. They don't seem to take as long as they used to. On the contrary, it feels as though time has accelerated in so many ways. Where my summers at 10 were filled with vacations, lake days and trips to the farm, today my summers are filled with shuttling sons to baseball, travelling to speak in churches with a couple of weeks of downtime at the beach. Gone are the 'farmer tan' arms that used to mark my summer seasons. When I was 10, I thought I might want to have an 'outside' job. After 30 years of working, I'll say that there's nothing wrong with an outside job, but I am really thankful for an 'inside' career on days when the rain is going sideways.
As part of my job at one point along the way, I met an elderly lady named Mrs. Wilson. When you asked her how old she was, she would respond by telling you what 'year' she was in vs. what birthday she last celebrated. When she was 89, she spent a whole year telling everyone that she was in her 90th year. With respect to Mrs. Wilson, I've been thinking a lot about what I want to accomplish in my 50th year. I know enough about human nature in general and my nature in particular to know that the likelihood of achieving the things that I want to accomplish increases dramatically if I write them down and tell someone. These are in no particular order. Consider this both the writing and the telling.
1) I want to complete a book. I've been thinking, talking and dreaming about this for a long time. Somewhere on a CD or hard drive the 'bones' of the book already exist in file form. I am not getting any younger or any less busy. I will complete my book before my 50th birthday.
2) I've lost just over 20lbs this year through changing my diet and by exercise. I competed in my first half marathon with a respectable time of 2:05:30. Before I am 50 years old, I'd like to lose another 10lbs, complete a marathon and challenge the same Half Marathon in the fall and come in under 2:00.
3) I will become 'kinder and gentler'. I have heard two statements about other people that have challenged me significantly in the past few weeks. The first is that apologizing doesn't mean you are wrong. It means you care enough about the relationship to do whatever it takes to preserve it. That has been very challenging. I heard the 2nd statement at a funeral yesterday. 'He combated thorns by planting roses.' If nothing else, I'd like to give myself to planting roses in the lives of other people. They look good, smell nice and communicate value.
4) I need to 'go deeper' in my walk with Christ. The longer I do what I do, I come to the conclusion that in order to do this well, I need to become much more like Jesus. At a distance, 'what would Jesus do?' is easily answered. The longer I am engaged in this role, the more elusive the answer becomes because this is not a black and white world and yes to some good things often means 'no' to other good things. I need to dig deeper wells that will sustain and renew me as I serve where I do.
5) By this time next year, I want to see Leading Influence established in at least one other province. We are at a place where it's time to take the next step. In order to do that, we need to find entrepreneurial, risk taking leaders who are willing to take on this kind of a challenge. It's not easy, but it's very worthwhile! It's time to get it done.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Thoughts from the Trail
Many of you who read this blog know that I have taken up running this year. It's been a rewarding experience with some weight loss, an improvement in my overall health and the rewards of reaching goals and milestones. This morning was particularly rewarding as I ran along a leaf covered trail surrounded by the magnificent fall colors. As I ran, I was reflecting on what I've observed at the Legislature over the past month when I had something of an 'aha' moment. The thought crossed my mind that politics has supplanted governance as the main focus of our elected leaders. Sadly, it means that most decisions are made on the basis of what is most appealing to the electorate vs. what is best for the citizens as a whole. Some believe that this is a paternalistic approach to governance. I disagree. I say that we need a shift in our political leadership culture that moves away from pandering to the interest groups that support you and towards a more serious commitment to the common good and in particular the needs of those who are most vulnerable among us.
As Europe teeters on the brink of financial collapse and America wanders through the doldrums of a painfully slow economic recovery, it's time to recognize (again) that we find ourselves in a difficult situation as a province and nation. We do not exist in a vacuum and what happens south of the border and across the ocean has a significant impact upon our economy. That impact will ultimately affect health care delivery, education, transportation, infrastructure and the list goes on.... No amount of political rhetoric, chest pounding or desk thumping is going to provide what we so desperately need.
We need leaders who are willing to risk political pressure from party insiders in order to ensure that the poor, weak and oppressed among us find justice, support and help. We need leaders who can step away from outside political pressure and being owned by special interest groups to address the pressing issues of our day. We need leaders who are able to move beyond their personal interests and 'hobby-horse' issues and find a way to work pro-actively towards solutions that appeal to the broad base of the population. Ultimately we need leaders who are willing to show leadership rather than vote hungry politicians whose decisions are based on gaining or retaining power. What we need is particularly challenging to find in an adversarial system designed to score points by making the people on the other side of the aisle look bad.
A number of years ago, a Cabinet minister asked me an important question: "How do I serve God in this place?' It's challenging to say the least, especially in light of what I've written previously, but I firmly believe that the Church has a key role in supporting those who seek to govern from that stance. I don't necessarily think that our answer is in 'taking over government' with our own political agenda. At some point we need to recognize that the kingdom is not of this world and that our primary concern is to be salt and light within our world. I do think that the answer is found in the church taking up it's role as priest within our nation.
Priests fill the role of intercessor through praying for those who lead. We must pray for those who are entrusted to lead our province regardless of their political ideology. Priests fill the role of advocates and a voice for those who are oppressed and experiencing injustice. We need to speak for those who can't speak for themselves. Priests 'stand in the gap' between those who are separated by ideology. We need to find ways to build bridges towards a more proactive approach. Finally, we need to be servants. There are tremendous opportunities for the church to serve it's leaders and it's community by meeting the tangible needs that surround us.
Get involved. Get engaged. Change your world. Make a difference.
As Europe teeters on the brink of financial collapse and America wanders through the doldrums of a painfully slow economic recovery, it's time to recognize (again) that we find ourselves in a difficult situation as a province and nation. We do not exist in a vacuum and what happens south of the border and across the ocean has a significant impact upon our economy. That impact will ultimately affect health care delivery, education, transportation, infrastructure and the list goes on.... No amount of political rhetoric, chest pounding or desk thumping is going to provide what we so desperately need.
We need leaders who are willing to risk political pressure from party insiders in order to ensure that the poor, weak and oppressed among us find justice, support and help. We need leaders who can step away from outside political pressure and being owned by special interest groups to address the pressing issues of our day. We need leaders who are able to move beyond their personal interests and 'hobby-horse' issues and find a way to work pro-actively towards solutions that appeal to the broad base of the population. Ultimately we need leaders who are willing to show leadership rather than vote hungry politicians whose decisions are based on gaining or retaining power. What we need is particularly challenging to find in an adversarial system designed to score points by making the people on the other side of the aisle look bad.
A number of years ago, a Cabinet minister asked me an important question: "How do I serve God in this place?' It's challenging to say the least, especially in light of what I've written previously, but I firmly believe that the Church has a key role in supporting those who seek to govern from that stance. I don't necessarily think that our answer is in 'taking over government' with our own political agenda. At some point we need to recognize that the kingdom is not of this world and that our primary concern is to be salt and light within our world. I do think that the answer is found in the church taking up it's role as priest within our nation.
Priests fill the role of intercessor through praying for those who lead. We must pray for those who are entrusted to lead our province regardless of their political ideology. Priests fill the role of advocates and a voice for those who are oppressed and experiencing injustice. We need to speak for those who can't speak for themselves. Priests 'stand in the gap' between those who are separated by ideology. We need to find ways to build bridges towards a more proactive approach. Finally, we need to be servants. There are tremendous opportunities for the church to serve it's leaders and it's community by meeting the tangible needs that surround us.
Get involved. Get engaged. Change your world. Make a difference.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
My First Half Marathon
A year ago, we all got in the van and went downtown early on Thanksgiving Sunday to cheer Barb (my wife) on in her first ever Half Marathon. I was supportive and loved the energy associated with that many people getting ready to take on a personal challenge. She did well and we all enjoyed a hot drink while she ran her 21 kms. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that just 52 weeks later I would be standing in running great waiting to take on my first half-marathon.
I started running in January. I did it as a weight loss strategy. In the beginning it was all about running a mile on the treadmill at the gym. It was a good start but I soon grew tired of looking at the same parking lot. I graduated to running around small lake in our area. I thought it was reasonable. In retrospect, it's a challenging, hilly course. Barb convinced me that running near our house might be a better option and so I began to run more regularly and for longer distances.
By early May I had determined that I would prepare for the GoodLife Fitness Half Marathon scheduled for this past weekend. I trained through the summer and things were looking good. In late August I ran 18kms for the first time.
On Sunday morning I stood with about 6000 other people who had prepared to challenge themselves, the course and those around them over a 21km course. One man was 89 years old. The gun went off and we began to run. I ran with some friends, one has done many races and is a coach. She was amazing at keeping me on track for 5kms. I got separated from them in the crowd after that and couldn't catch up. I carried on at my own pace and enjoyed the run along Dallas Road. I did well until I got to the area where I thought the turn around should be. When it wasn't there and all I could see was the crowd in front of me turning in the opposite direction of where I thought the course should go, I began to struggle mentally. I was discouraged and questioning whether or not I could finish. When we finally made the turn, the trip home went by quickly. (The trip home always feels quicker...) When I passed the 18km mark, every step was a personal best. As much as my hip flexors and feet were hurting, the pain was secondary to the reward of finishing. At around 19 kms our kids were standing on the sidewalk cheering me on. They said that I wasn't as happy as I'd been earlier in the race. My smile had been replaced with a grimace! That said, I was making good progress and the end was near. I ran past Ogden Point and began to pick up my pace. Fisherman's Park is 1km from the finish line. Because we were close to the end, the crowds were fuller and people were cheering, clanging cow bells and waving signs. In the last 500m, something took over in me and I began to charge the finish line. (Sprint would be a strong word...) I started passing people and closing the gap. My goal was to finish at around 2:00 hours. I finished at 2:06. My pace was 5:58/km. My fastest km was my last one.
Having never done this before, it was a tremendous learning experience for me. I was reminded again of the power of encouragement. All of those people standing along the road holding their signs, ringing their cowbells and shouting encouragement really make a difference! The high fives I got from my kids at 5kms and again at 18 kms helped keep me going. They said I was smiling a lot more at 5ks than I was at 18....
I'm kind of competitive.... okay... I'm a LOT competitive. I like winning more than losing. This race helped me see something more important. I had turned the corner and was on my way back to the finish line and was still meeting people who had started with me but were well behind me. I saw one person who was significantly overweight running slowly along at a pace that worked for her. I had tremendous respect for her and shouted some encouragement as we passed on the road. She was had taken on the same challenge that I had and while we were at different places on the road, her progress and pace was significant to her. I was proud to run in the same race.
My most inspiring moment happened when I turned the final corner and came onto Belville St. By this point the pace had quickened as everyone gave it one last push. I was no different. I gave it everything I had. (In my mind I was tearing up the road. On video, it's not as impressive.... LOL!!)The crowds were larger, in some cases 3 and 4 people deep, there was more cheering and most importantly, 500M away was the finish line. All of my training had been for this moment.... I focused on finishing well and gave it everything I had.
On the morning of the race, a friend tweeted Heb 12:1. The verse speaks of our lives as a race and the picture is of a stadium full of cheering crowds. We are running the race, with Jesus at the finish line waiting to welcome us in. Those who are cheering were just like us, except that they have finished the race and they want us to finish well too.
As you probably know, Steve Jobs passed away last week. He's been quoted as saying 'Live today as though it is your last.' For the most part, we don't do that. We live as if our last day is many days away. Reality is that you just don't know when your last day will be, so live like this is it!!
Live Well... Run Well... Finish Well!
I started running in January. I did it as a weight loss strategy. In the beginning it was all about running a mile on the treadmill at the gym. It was a good start but I soon grew tired of looking at the same parking lot. I graduated to running around small lake in our area. I thought it was reasonable. In retrospect, it's a challenging, hilly course. Barb convinced me that running near our house might be a better option and so I began to run more regularly and for longer distances.
By early May I had determined that I would prepare for the GoodLife Fitness Half Marathon scheduled for this past weekend. I trained through the summer and things were looking good. In late August I ran 18kms for the first time.
On Sunday morning I stood with about 6000 other people who had prepared to challenge themselves, the course and those around them over a 21km course. One man was 89 years old. The gun went off and we began to run. I ran with some friends, one has done many races and is a coach. She was amazing at keeping me on track for 5kms. I got separated from them in the crowd after that and couldn't catch up. I carried on at my own pace and enjoyed the run along Dallas Road. I did well until I got to the area where I thought the turn around should be. When it wasn't there and all I could see was the crowd in front of me turning in the opposite direction of where I thought the course should go, I began to struggle mentally. I was discouraged and questioning whether or not I could finish. When we finally made the turn, the trip home went by quickly. (The trip home always feels quicker...) When I passed the 18km mark, every step was a personal best. As much as my hip flexors and feet were hurting, the pain was secondary to the reward of finishing. At around 19 kms our kids were standing on the sidewalk cheering me on. They said that I wasn't as happy as I'd been earlier in the race. My smile had been replaced with a grimace! That said, I was making good progress and the end was near. I ran past Ogden Point and began to pick up my pace. Fisherman's Park is 1km from the finish line. Because we were close to the end, the crowds were fuller and people were cheering, clanging cow bells and waving signs. In the last 500m, something took over in me and I began to charge the finish line. (Sprint would be a strong word...) I started passing people and closing the gap. My goal was to finish at around 2:00 hours. I finished at 2:06. My pace was 5:58/km. My fastest km was my last one.
Having never done this before, it was a tremendous learning experience for me. I was reminded again of the power of encouragement. All of those people standing along the road holding their signs, ringing their cowbells and shouting encouragement really make a difference! The high fives I got from my kids at 5kms and again at 18 kms helped keep me going. They said I was smiling a lot more at 5ks than I was at 18....
I'm kind of competitive.... okay... I'm a LOT competitive. I like winning more than losing. This race helped me see something more important. I had turned the corner and was on my way back to the finish line and was still meeting people who had started with me but were well behind me. I saw one person who was significantly overweight running slowly along at a pace that worked for her. I had tremendous respect for her and shouted some encouragement as we passed on the road. She was had taken on the same challenge that I had and while we were at different places on the road, her progress and pace was significant to her. I was proud to run in the same race.
My most inspiring moment happened when I turned the final corner and came onto Belville St. By this point the pace had quickened as everyone gave it one last push. I was no different. I gave it everything I had. (In my mind I was tearing up the road. On video, it's not as impressive.... LOL!!)The crowds were larger, in some cases 3 and 4 people deep, there was more cheering and most importantly, 500M away was the finish line. All of my training had been for this moment.... I focused on finishing well and gave it everything I had.
On the morning of the race, a friend tweeted Heb 12:1. The verse speaks of our lives as a race and the picture is of a stadium full of cheering crowds. We are running the race, with Jesus at the finish line waiting to welcome us in. Those who are cheering were just like us, except that they have finished the race and they want us to finish well too.
As you probably know, Steve Jobs passed away last week. He's been quoted as saying 'Live today as though it is your last.' For the most part, we don't do that. We live as if our last day is many days away. Reality is that you just don't know when your last day will be, so live like this is it!!
Live Well... Run Well... Finish Well!
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Game On!!
Hello Friends. It's Thursday morning and I feel a bit like I've been running a sprint over the last 3 days. The Legislature resumed on Monday with a Throne Speech and all of the associated pageantry. Throne Speech is one of my favourite events of the year. There's so much to see before it starts and so many people to see after it's over. It always feels a bit like a high school reunion at the reception after the speech. The room is buzzing with conversation, laughter and general pleasantries.
All through the summer, we had a distinct sense of momentum and increasing blessing on the ministry. There were certainly some significant 'firsts' for us that I can't share here, but there was something else happening that was hard to quantify. It just felt like something had 'shifted' for us. I found out on Monday afternoon that we had crossed a significant threshold.
Normally, I have to 'work' the room at the post-speech reception and wait my turn to speak to members as they are visiting with their guests and friends. I don't mind that, because I understand that they have a job to do even in that setting. What told me something had changed for us was when I entered the reception area and people began moving towards me to extend their welcome and appreciation. My intent is not to boast so much as it is to give God glory for His faithfulness to the ministry. Something significant has shifted for us and there is a new level of trust, openness and confidence in who we are and in what we do. That trust and openness has translated into some remarkable conversations and opportunities this week.
I'm excited about what God has planned for those who lead our province in this session. I'm more excited to be a part of seeing it unfold. Keep tracking with us. It's going to be an amazing Fall Session.
All through the summer, we had a distinct sense of momentum and increasing blessing on the ministry. There were certainly some significant 'firsts' for us that I can't share here, but there was something else happening that was hard to quantify. It just felt like something had 'shifted' for us. I found out on Monday afternoon that we had crossed a significant threshold.
Normally, I have to 'work' the room at the post-speech reception and wait my turn to speak to members as they are visiting with their guests and friends. I don't mind that, because I understand that they have a job to do even in that setting. What told me something had changed for us was when I entered the reception area and people began moving towards me to extend their welcome and appreciation. My intent is not to boast so much as it is to give God glory for His faithfulness to the ministry. Something significant has shifted for us and there is a new level of trust, openness and confidence in who we are and in what we do. That trust and openness has translated into some remarkable conversations and opportunities this week.
I'm excited about what God has planned for those who lead our province in this session. I'm more excited to be a part of seeing it unfold. Keep tracking with us. It's going to be an amazing Fall Session.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Hitting 'Reset'
On Oct 3 the current session of the BC Legislature will come to a close. Members will return to Victoria for a morning session that will officially bring the session to an end. It will hopefully mark the end of a season of turmoil, intrigue and political uncertainty on both sides of the House.
.
On the afternoon of Oct 3, the Lieutenant Governor will attend the Legislature and read the Throne Speech announcing Government's new agenda, priorities and vision. In this case it will be a lot like hitting the 'reset' button on your smart phone that hasn't been working properly. The hope is that a fresh start will result in things beginning to work they way they are supposed to. Only time will tell if the intended goal will be achieved.
It's not only governments that seek the opportunity to reset the agenda in the hope of a fresh start. There are people everywhere who long for a fresh start. Sometimes life just becomes too complicated, messy and challenging and we need to hit reset. Depending on who you are and where you look, there might appear to be many ways to accomplish that. We have tried for years to find a reset button that suits our preferences but rarely completely meets our needs.
The New Testament carries a central recurring theme around the idea of 'reset'. God knew that at some point we would all long for a fresh start. He made us to crave it. And so He sent Jesus who talked about new life with people from every social strata. The apostle Paul talked about becoming a new creation and John wrote about the tremendous forgiveness available to anyone who asks for it.
The big difference between the government's reset and this one is that the government's reset is based on the hope that certain outcomes will result. It may or may not be successful. God's 'reset' is guaranteed to give us a fresh start. Every time.
Need a fresh start? Ask God to hit the 'reset' button in your life! You won't regret it!
.
On the afternoon of Oct 3, the Lieutenant Governor will attend the Legislature and read the Throne Speech announcing Government's new agenda, priorities and vision. In this case it will be a lot like hitting the 'reset' button on your smart phone that hasn't been working properly. The hope is that a fresh start will result in things beginning to work they way they are supposed to. Only time will tell if the intended goal will be achieved.
It's not only governments that seek the opportunity to reset the agenda in the hope of a fresh start. There are people everywhere who long for a fresh start. Sometimes life just becomes too complicated, messy and challenging and we need to hit reset. Depending on who you are and where you look, there might appear to be many ways to accomplish that. We have tried for years to find a reset button that suits our preferences but rarely completely meets our needs.
The New Testament carries a central recurring theme around the idea of 'reset'. God knew that at some point we would all long for a fresh start. He made us to crave it. And so He sent Jesus who talked about new life with people from every social strata. The apostle Paul talked about becoming a new creation and John wrote about the tremendous forgiveness available to anyone who asks for it.
The big difference between the government's reset and this one is that the government's reset is based on the hope that certain outcomes will result. It may or may not be successful. God's 'reset' is guaranteed to give us a fresh start. Every time.
Need a fresh start? Ask God to hit the 'reset' button in your life! You won't regret it!
Friday, September 02, 2011
No Election Until 2013
Premier Christy Clark brought an end to months of speculation yesterday by announcing that there would be no fall election. I confess that I breathed a huge sigh of relief. I am thankful that there will be no election for at least 20 months. It will be good for our province to have some political stability after the drama around the now failed HST. That said, it's obvious that the Opposition has become very optimistic about their chances in 2013 so it's safe to say that we are about to experience the longest election campaign north of the US border.
While elections are part of the democratic process, I'm relieved that the Premier is waiting until 2013. In terms of what we do as a ministry, a stable political environment makes it much easier to serve and minister to MLA's. Elections create significant pressure, stress and tension for politicians.
This window allows us to move forward with some exciting plans to ehance our ministry effectiveness. Over the next few months we will be working towards building some important relationships that will allow us to invest in MLA marriages and homes. We are excited about this tremendous opportunity.
We will also be working on a hard copy prayer guide for PrayBC that will feature MLA profiles and daily prayers. We keep getting requests for a hard copy version of what we do and we are thrilled to be able to move forward with that option this fall.
No election means there will be a fall session of the Legislature. This allows us to build on our progress we made through the Spring session and over the summer months. It's going to be an exciting year of ministry and I can't wait to get started!!
While elections are part of the democratic process, I'm relieved that the Premier is waiting until 2013. In terms of what we do as a ministry, a stable political environment makes it much easier to serve and minister to MLA's. Elections create significant pressure, stress and tension for politicians.
This window allows us to move forward with some exciting plans to ehance our ministry effectiveness. Over the next few months we will be working towards building some important relationships that will allow us to invest in MLA marriages and homes. We are excited about this tremendous opportunity.
We will also be working on a hard copy prayer guide for PrayBC that will feature MLA profiles and daily prayers. We keep getting requests for a hard copy version of what we do and we are thrilled to be able to move forward with that option this fall.
No election means there will be a fall session of the Legislature. This allows us to build on our progress we made through the Spring session and over the summer months. It's going to be an exciting year of ministry and I can't wait to get started!!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
And Suddenly....
It's hard to believe this, but Christmas is only 4 months away. (I can hear the groans and cheers from here!) I was reminded of a sentence in one of the records of the first Christmas. 'And suddenly a great crowd of the heavenly host appeared....' I haven't seen any angel choirs recently, but I feel a bit like the shepherds might have felt on that night.
Things have been remarkably quiet on the political scene over the past few weeks. This is usually a time when MLA's and their staff take vacation time from their hectic schedules. Not a lot happens in August which is why I usually take my vacation at this time of year.
Last Thursday was my first day back in the office. I was preparing for some Fall Fundraising events when my twitter feed popped up on my screen with a note that Barry Penner had resigned as Attorney General. It's big news whenever the AG resigns and this was no exception. Mr. Penner resigned so that he can spend more time with wife and family. He's done a great job, is well respected and has made an excellent choice at this point in his life. The Hon. Shirley Bond is taking on a new role and becomes both Attorney General and Solicitor General. She is hard working, dedicated, wise and full of integrity. She will do a fantastic job! She also is the first woman in BC to be both AG and SG. That is quite an accomplishment!
I woke up early on Monday morning and heard the sad news that Jack Layton had passed away. His passing will have an enormous effect on the federal political landscape and leaves a leadership vacuum in our nation. Mr. Layton had a vision of Canada that ensured that the poor, weak and oppressed were cared for and empowered. These are values that resonate with the heart and passion of Jesus and Jack Layton should be celebrated for having them.
On Wednesday Iain Black announced his resignation as member for Port Moody Port Coquitlam. He will be the new President of the Vancouver Board of Trade. Mr. Black has been a remarkable MLA and former Cabinet Minister. He's also a family man and a job that allows him to be home every night is a very good thing for him and his family.
On Friday, we will hear the results on the HST referendum. After 2 long years, the people will have their say and we will live with the decision of the majority. In whatever happens, my hope is that our expression of grass roots democracy will be seasoned with wisdom rather than the anger that sparked the referendum. Generally speaking, angry people don't make wise decisions.
Wednesday's here. Friday's coming. Who knows what can happen in between!!
Things have been remarkably quiet on the political scene over the past few weeks. This is usually a time when MLA's and their staff take vacation time from their hectic schedules. Not a lot happens in August which is why I usually take my vacation at this time of year.
Last Thursday was my first day back in the office. I was preparing for some Fall Fundraising events when my twitter feed popped up on my screen with a note that Barry Penner had resigned as Attorney General. It's big news whenever the AG resigns and this was no exception. Mr. Penner resigned so that he can spend more time with wife and family. He's done a great job, is well respected and has made an excellent choice at this point in his life. The Hon. Shirley Bond is taking on a new role and becomes both Attorney General and Solicitor General. She is hard working, dedicated, wise and full of integrity. She will do a fantastic job! She also is the first woman in BC to be both AG and SG. That is quite an accomplishment!
I woke up early on Monday morning and heard the sad news that Jack Layton had passed away. His passing will have an enormous effect on the federal political landscape and leaves a leadership vacuum in our nation. Mr. Layton had a vision of Canada that ensured that the poor, weak and oppressed were cared for and empowered. These are values that resonate with the heart and passion of Jesus and Jack Layton should be celebrated for having them.
On Wednesday Iain Black announced his resignation as member for Port Moody Port Coquitlam. He will be the new President of the Vancouver Board of Trade. Mr. Black has been a remarkable MLA and former Cabinet Minister. He's also a family man and a job that allows him to be home every night is a very good thing for him and his family.
On Friday, we will hear the results on the HST referendum. After 2 long years, the people will have their say and we will live with the decision of the majority. In whatever happens, my hope is that our expression of grass roots democracy will be seasoned with wisdom rather than the anger that sparked the referendum. Generally speaking, angry people don't make wise decisions.
Wednesday's here. Friday's coming. Who knows what can happen in between!!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Jack Layton Passes Away
There are times when you hope (desperately) for a better outcome than what you really expect. When Jack Layton announced he was stepping away from the leadership of the NDP this summer to battle a 2nd cancer diagnosis, I hoped for a positive outcome. I think Canada needed a man and leader like Jack Layton. He was passionate about ideals. More importantly, he was undeterred by the challenges that stood in between what he saw could happen and what he saw did happen. I admire his tennacity and commitment to care for the poor, the weak and the oppressed. Jesus was passionate about those same things and somehow along the way, that same passion and vision resonated with Jack in a meaningful way. I met Jack Layton a few years ago when I was President of the Kamloops and District Chamber of Commerce. He struck me as a genuine and humble man who was more interested in being real than he was in pretense and posturing. My hope was to meet him again in my new capacity and pray with him in his office. It was not to be.
I heard the news of his passing early this morning. I had hoped for a better and brighter outcome. It was not to be. While his family has experienced a great loss, our nation has lost a great man who brought balance and wisdom to Canadian politics. He will be missed.
I read Jack Layton's Letter to All Canadians earlier today. I don't know if I've seen approach death in a more dignified and balanced approach. Consider his last words to all Canadians....
My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear.
Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic.
And we’ll change the world.
On behalf of the board and partners of Leading Influence Ministries, we express our sincere condolences to Mr. Layton's family, his colleagues and his peers. Your loss enormous and our prayer for you is that the God of all comfort will be near you in every way. We have lost a great Canadian who inspired us, challenged us and left us with the hope that things really can be different than what we see around us.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
IronMan Of Golf
It was still dark when I pulled out of my driveway at 4:20 on my way to start the IronMan of Golf. On the way I learned that McDonalds doesn't serve breakfast until 5AM and that there's a line up at Tim Hortons at 4:30. (Desperate times call for desperate measures...) I arrived at Olympic View Golf Course at around 4:40 and teed off at 4:55. The first two rounds were spectacular because there was no one in front of us. It's the way golf should be played! Round 1 was complete by 6:55 and Round 2 was done by 9:30. Round 3 wasn't quite as fast and it just went downhill from there in terms of time.
I learned some important lessons. The first was a good reminder that adventures and challenges are always better when they are shared with someone else. A special thanks to my caddies and drivers, Wally Berndt, Cathy Hallam and Tyler Schindel.
Success happens when a lot of people work together. Thanks to our many sponsors, donors and friends who contributed to the financial success of the day. We are at just over $5500 on the day. This is what we know of. Others are pledging after the fact which is fantastic. If you would like to support this event, click here to make your donation by credit card. If you prefer to mail a cheque to us, just use our regular mailing address.
I learned some important lessons. The first was a good reminder that adventures and challenges are always better when they are shared with someone else. A special thanks to my caddies and drivers, Wally Berndt, Cathy Hallam and Tyler Schindel.
Success happens when a lot of people work together. Thanks to our many sponsors, donors and friends who contributed to the financial success of the day. We are at just over $5500 on the day. This is what we know of. Others are pledging after the fact which is fantastic. If you would like to support this event, click here to make your donation by credit card. If you prefer to mail a cheque to us, just use our regular mailing address.
Leading Influence Ministries
626 Blanshard St
Victoria BC V8W 3G6
The staff at Olympic View was nothing short of incredible. They cared for every aspect of the day and all I had to do was keep hitting the ball. By my calculations, I probably had over 500 strokes on the day. It felt like 1000 by the time I was done ...
You can accomplish more than you think you can if you just put your mind to it. I hadn't swung a club in 3 years and wondered if I could make it. By the time I was done, my legs, shoulders and arms were very tired, but I completed the 100. (Tyler wanted to do another round but after a short snack, dad was ready to call it a day....)
I believe in generosity. I started with 120 golf balls. I came home with 40.... There are 80 balls out there somewhere just waiting to be found.
Remarkably, I only lost 3 to the water and just two went into the sand. The rest are just scattered in the trees. If you play OV, happy hunting!
I scored 15 pars on the day. That might sound impressive (and it would be if I only played 18 holes....) At 5.5 rounds, it's not nearly that exciting!
For those of you who are wondering how I feel, let me testify to the medicinal qualities of A535, Advil and some very warm baths. All in all, it hasn't been as bad as I thought, but I know that I did it....
Thanks again to everyone who helped make this happen!
Friday, June 17, 2011
And In Other News...
I was in Vancouver for Game 7. We were in the large crowd about 1/2 a block from where the riots started. We left early and stayed up late watching the news and listening to the police helicopters. It's a sad moment for Vancouver. Call in shows, TV experts and the print media had a single focus all day Thursday and they missed the real story. Hooligans and anarchists saw and seized an opportunity to exploit the situation. They counted on a mob mentality taking over. They hoped correctly and got their desired result. They rioted for 6 hours until police got the situation under control.
The collective hand wringing, apologizing and prognosticating of Vancouverites and Canadians at large has now gone on for well over 24 hours. We are embarrassed, humiliated, etc, etc by the actions of a relative handful of trouble makers. In true Canadian fashion we will probe what has gone wrong with society, how this could happen and what should be done about it.
Lost in the shuffle are the heroes in Vancouver. Hundreds of police officers showed tremendous restraint in dealing with the rioters. Hundreds of Vancouverites volunteered, organized and came downtown to serve their city and assist in the clean up. My son and I drove through the area on Thursday morning. The street were clean. Windows were boarded up and people were orderly, calm and sweeping and cleaning. As we got to the Bay Store that was looted, people had begun to write thank you notes on the wood to those who had stepped up to keep things from getting worse. It's now called 'The Citizen Wall'. Click the link to see what people have written. Last night, a police officer left his vehicle unattended only to return to see his car surrounded by a crowd of people. Fearing the worst, he was relieved and delighted to see his cruiser covered with sticky notes expressing words of thanksgiving and appreciation.
The Vancouver media could do the city a huge favour by shifting their focus solely to the actions of the heroes. The world needs to hear about the great people of Vancouver who refuse to be defined by the violent actions of a few. Use your influence to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that didn't need a committee to respond to an obvious need. Send the message that represents the true spirit of your great city.
Oh yeah... and Go Canucks! (from a Blackhawks fan who thinks you can do it next year...)
The collective hand wringing, apologizing and prognosticating of Vancouverites and Canadians at large has now gone on for well over 24 hours. We are embarrassed, humiliated, etc, etc by the actions of a relative handful of trouble makers. In true Canadian fashion we will probe what has gone wrong with society, how this could happen and what should be done about it.
Lost in the shuffle are the heroes in Vancouver. Hundreds of police officers showed tremendous restraint in dealing with the rioters. Hundreds of Vancouverites volunteered, organized and came downtown to serve their city and assist in the clean up. My son and I drove through the area on Thursday morning. The street were clean. Windows were boarded up and people were orderly, calm and sweeping and cleaning. As we got to the Bay Store that was looted, people had begun to write thank you notes on the wood to those who had stepped up to keep things from getting worse. It's now called 'The Citizen Wall'. Click the link to see what people have written. Last night, a police officer left his vehicle unattended only to return to see his car surrounded by a crowd of people. Fearing the worst, he was relieved and delighted to see his cruiser covered with sticky notes expressing words of thanksgiving and appreciation.
The Vancouver media could do the city a huge favour by shifting their focus solely to the actions of the heroes. The world needs to hear about the great people of Vancouver who refuse to be defined by the violent actions of a few. Use your influence to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that didn't need a committee to respond to an obvious need. Send the message that represents the true spirit of your great city.
Oh yeah... and Go Canucks! (from a Blackhawks fan who thinks you can do it next year...)
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