tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-94020142011-04-21T18:00:11.359-05:00dreaming forward. reflecting back. straddling the middle.stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.comBlogger911100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141738616060931782006-03-09T10:00:00.000-05:002006-03-09T09:39:24.836-05:00

Hey everyone!Exciting news...We've moved this blog over to our new Intersect website. We'll have a few more capabilities with our new blog and it will tie into what Dave Livermore and I are doing with intersect.We're moving all our posts to the new site and will have them categorized. All our new posts will now be there.Thanks for journeying with us and we hope you'll enjoy the new features at

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141321397621495242006-03-02T12:39:00.000-05:002006-03-02T12:43:17.646-05:00

Go to your doctor, and one of the first things they'll do is listen to your heart. I don’t think about my hear that much. Maybe I should since, if it goes… I go. The only time I hear my heartbeat is when I’m panicking, scared, alone, or after a long run. Something traumatic emotionally, or physically has to happen for me to notice my heart beating fast.Lent serves as a season when we pay

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141188829374876022006-03-01T12:01:00.000-05:002006-02-28T23:53:49.393-05:00

Dear People of God: The first Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord's passion and resurrection, and it became the custom of the Church to prepare for them by a season of penitence and fasting. This is season of Lent provided a time in which converts to the faith were prepared for Holy Baptism. It was also a time when those who, because of notorious sins, had been separated

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141010679834953162006-02-28T12:01:00.000-05:002006-02-27T22:31:24.156-05:00

I’m back in Milwaukee March 04 for a Youth Ministry training event called “CONNECT 2006.” The Conference will be at Elmbrook Church but it’s actually hosted by a number of youth ministry leaders in the area. Maybe that’s why I like it so much. I think the event is an expression of a collaborated effort of area leaders seeking to learn from each other, and spur each other on to serve the teenage

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141047057474830062006-02-27T08:24:00.000-05:002006-02-27T08:30:57.496-05:00

As the Emergent West Michigan cohort continues to grow together, we are wanting to create more ways to connect missionally. We believe one essential expression is through prayer together. As a result, we’ll be attempting to meet the first Friday of every month for “seeking-Friday” to gathering at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church for morning prayers at 9:00AM. This Friday will be our first

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1141010267897796942006-02-26T21:55:00.000-05:002006-02-26T22:21:05.323-05:00

Today at our church, we spent time preparing and setting up for embarking on Lent together. We, of course, join the historical and world community of faith who follow the church calendar journey toward Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter.Our good friend, Troy, put together a “Lent Book” which will serve as the metronome for our community this season. I think you can get a .pdf of the book off the

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1140308264423953282006-02-18T19:11:00.000-05:002006-03-03T23:20:36.413-05:00

So last weekend, when I preached at a church, I felt I needed to take time to confess to anyone in the congregation who has felt hurt by any church, as a result of Jesus followers speaking or acting in the name of Jesus that wasn’t really Jesus-Like. I include myself as an offender. In my own passion, enthusiasm, ignorance, humanity, I’m certain that I have not represented Jesus well to

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1139949871279738562006-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:002006-02-14T19:47:13.576-05:00

I had a great time with the gang from Kettlebrook Church, last Sunday. Thanks to all who made me feel so welcome. Kettlebrook is committed to a multi-generational worship service and so all grade school kids and up were in the morning services. I appreciate the effort they are making to be being together as a whole church for whole church gatherings. If they can continue to infuse this DNA

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1139726621607156732006-02-11T23:45:00.000-05:002006-02-12T01:45:25.073-05:00

I’ve had a wonderful time with the Children’s Ministry Conference team the last two days. They have put in a lot of work to serve the Children’s Ministry community and close to 500 attendees came from Wisconsin, surrounding states in the Midwest and we also had Children’s ministry leaders from Ireland, Germany, and Liberia.The event was held at Elmbrook Church and it’s always a thrill to go back

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1139324495393958572006-02-10T06:00:00.000-05:002006-02-10T06:21:32.646-05:00

I'm looking forward to this weekend as I'll be connecting with two really great communities.On Friday night and Saturday, I’ll be keynoting and presenting a seminar at the Children's Ministry Conference 2006 at Elmbrook Church. The event is sponsored by Kidz NET, a network of area Children’s Ministry leaders and educators. I hope to bring a perspective of Children’s ministry from a Youth Pastor

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1139458014462425272006-02-09T15:30:00.000-05:002006-02-09T14:30:22.496-05:00

Thanks to all of you who came out to our Emergent West Michigan gathering. We had a great turnout with lots of new and familiar faces!Troy Hatfield led us through his “Why” and “How” thinking on Lent and how the Mars Hill Community will attempt to embark on this journey this season.As for the “Why” I’ll refer you to the Reflection Paper he wrote. I always appreciate Troy’s thoughtful

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1139285675922347512006-02-06T22:03:00.000-05:002006-02-06T23:25:33.303-05:00

If you happen to be around, join us downtown GR at Bite (10.30-Noon) for our monthly conversation.Here’s what we’ll be conversing about… Is There Space For Lent in an Emerging Church World?Next Emergent West Michigan Conversation will revolve around a discussion of Lent. Lent officially begins March 1.For some traditions, Lent is a mystery. For other's it a worn out tradition. Is there a way

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1138974438025043822006-02-03T08:34:00.000-05:002006-02-03T08:47:18.276-05:00

The Global Learning Center at GRTS, led by Dave Livermore has had a great week of exploring “The Changing Face of Missions.” Wonderful people have been a part of this conversation including Paul Borthwick (Development Associates Intl; Gordon College), Don Golden (Mars Hill); Ruth Tucker (Calvin Seminary); Charlie Davis (TEAM); Tim Barnes (International Teams) and many, many more.Yesterday was

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1138767875827219062006-01-31T23:21:00.000-05:002006-02-01T06:57:53.466-05:00

Bono’s got me thinking this week.He’s been at the World Economic Forum and is leading the charge on the “Red Label” campaign- a partnership with fashion designers that promotes raising money to fight AIDS in Africa.The quote that grabbed me that I heard on NPR was this…“Wanting to change the world is sexy.”I couldn’t agree more.I couldn’t worry more.Call it sexy. Call it the right thing. Call

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1138020944135017962006-01-23T00:50:00.000-05:002006-01-23T07:55:44.290-05:00

Well, I’m writing this will sitting at the at the airport with a good cup of Starbucks joe. It seems like the appropriate time to write down my reflections on the weekend.What I experienced was a range of middle school girls who were boy crazy and some who were still Disney crazy. It’s hard to believe that the range of age for this age bracket is only one or two years apart. The last night

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137819322655331412006-01-21T00:02:00.000-05:002006-01-21T00:04:57.060-05:00

I’ll let you decide if my prayers were answered, but I do have internet service which is kind of nice.Today I made it to Manchester, NH with no problem. Seth was kind enough to pick me up and we had a nice hour drive north to the camp. Seth is a native Bostonian so I felt like I got an insider’s description of this great colonial landscape.I learned that, in Boston, you “bang a u-turn,” not “

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137728309749439982006-01-20T00:30:00.000-05:002006-01-19T22:38:29.766-05:00

One of the joys for me in working with our GR Cohort is getting the opportunity to do ministry together with some of our cohort members in their ministry context. This weekend I head to New Hampshire for a retreat with Brian Dietz’ Junior High Group at Grace Chapel (Lexington, MA).Brian had a brush with “fame” this past year as he and his Middle School ministry were interviewed for Time’s Being

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137672357825852822006-01-19T07:02:00.000-05:002006-01-19T07:05:57.853-05:00

Today our youngest daughter, Lauren, turns 6 years old.We love you, sweetie!

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137644661591236132006-01-18T23:07:00.000-05:002006-01-18T23:30:29.570-05:00

This week our Inersect GR Cohort has been meeting as we've been working through our third module of material. We have been focusing on theological pictures of the church and these images shape our communal identity, hope, connection, and missional expression. In addition, we went Calvin College today to see Paul Rusesabagina, the actual main character from the movie "Hotel Rwanda" who is

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137462139339859312006-01-16T20:30:00.000-05:002006-01-16T21:29:00.680-05:00

Calvin College has a great lecture series this month called the January Series. Today, in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Day, Randal Jelks, associate professor of History and Director of the African and African Dispora Studies Minor at Calvin College, shared his thoughts from his newest book, “African Americans in the Furniture City: The Struggle for Civil Rights in Grand Rapids".His

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1137170500186509872006-01-13T11:29:00.000-05:002006-01-13T17:57:05.150-05:00

“This is what the teenage boy said as his dad took him to the skate park for lessons last Saturday morning. The dad was insisting that teenage skater boy wear knee pads. “Dad, I’m 14.” If you were there, you would interpret this, not as a declaration of his age, but a proclamation of his person. I’m 14, I don’t need you to tell me what to wear, I don’t need you to protect me, I don’t need you

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1136823374224507292006-01-09T11:11:00.000-05:002006-01-09T11:20:43.883-05:00

Dan Kimball has a very interesting post about a guy he saw wearing this t-shirt at the airport. I say it's "interesting" because the post has been in my head all weekend and has forced me to think.Jet over there and weigh in on the disucussion. Take Dan's question seriously... "What would you say to this person?" Post your comment before you read everyone elses'. You'll see my remarks there,

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1136438429613809932006-01-05T00:15:00.000-05:002006-01-05T00:21:15.086-05:00

Happy 2006 everyone! 2005 was a really encouraging year for us and we’re eager to embrace the new year. I’ve been pondering new year thoughts and one of the things that came of it was the following. I write regularly for Group's Church Volunteer Central. My column is directed at Youth Pastors/Leaders who lead a volunteer staff.Here’s some excerpts from my January column:Happy Deep Year“Happy New

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1135611020382436272005-12-25T22:27:00.000-05:002005-12-26T10:32:13.950-05:00

We make a birthday cake for Jesus every Christmas.In the past, we would make the cake and then just eat it. That is, until Elise had this conversation…“Dad, I’m thinking about Jesus birthday.”“Good.”“I’m wondering why, if it’s Jesus birthday, why Jesus doesn’t get any cake?”“Good question, Lisi (not knowing what else to say!). What do you think about that?”“I think we should whip cake into the

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1135610701594301522005-12-24T23:04:00.000-05:002005-12-26T10:25:01.626-05:00

I’ve had a few thoughts this weekend, regarding Christmas. I’ve been to a couple of Christmas Eve services. Both had their strengths (not that I’m rating them), and I was struck by a contrast. One that I went to, was able to stay at the manger… the other was not. I wonder why the one stuck in the manger spoke to me more than the other.The one that couldn’t stay at the manger reminds me that

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1135266450055031502005-12-22T10:42:00.000-05:002005-12-22T10:47:30.083-05:00

Today’s the day. I’m the big 4-0.Not only did I have a surprise tubing-day last weekend, but Jen threw me a huge surprise party on Sunday. I think over forty people showed up to wish me a happy birthday. We’ve only been in Grand Rapids for a year and a half and I am amazed as I consider the number of people who have already touched our lives in significant ways. Wednesday was my last day of

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1135144859474458112005-12-21T00:54:00.000-05:002005-12-21T01:04:47.380-05:00

Tonight , after we attend Mars Hill’s Christmas Eve service, we will head back to Milwaukee to visit family and friends. Our schedule is full as we celebrate my birthday, Jen’s and my anniversary, and Christmas.I’m officiating a wedding for a great couple on the 23rd. Emily, the bride, was a former student in my high school ministry. These are the thrills that come with doing student ministry…

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1134971208689811552005-12-19T00:41:00.000-05:002005-12-19T00:46:48.733-05:00

Saturday, going up the tube-lift, I got to talking with a four year old who was riding up next to me. I could barely see him as the tube literally swallowed him up. It was his birthday and his dad was taking him tubing. After we chatted for a while. He blurted out, ”My name is Nathan!” And then he turned to his dad and said, “Right Dad? That's my name?”I smiled.Then I realized that

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1134931658650238362005-12-18T13:41:00.000-05:002005-12-18T14:02:05.120-05:00

I’ve been trying to avoid the inevitable, but I can’t hold it off much longer. This Thursday, December 22 I turn 40 years old and yesterday, Jen surprised me by taking me out to face the reality by celebrating with some dear friends. We did what all people clinging to their youth should do… go tubing. Yes… this place was great, although I’ve never seen so many signs with the word “No” in front

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1134620956938184252005-12-14T23:22:00.000-05:002005-12-14T23:32:52.450-05:00

Kindness and truth shall meet;Justice and peace shall kiss.Truth shall spring out of the earth,And justice shall look down from heaven.The Lord himself will give what is goodand our land will yield its harvest. Justice shall walk before him,And salvation, along the way of his steps.– Psalm 85.10-13Tonight our house church met. Dan led us through a reflective liturgy, which included sharing

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1134454739273186192005-12-13T01:15:00.000-05:002005-12-13T01:18:59.286-05:00

So, we went to The Chronicles of Narna this weekend. Overall, I was happy with the effort. I felt like it remained true to the book. I thought Georgie Henl (Lucy) was amazing and the true star. I think I’d give it a “B” as the movie is never as good as the book. For comparison, I thought The Goblet of Fire was a “C” as there was too much in the book to capture in a two-hour movie.So there was

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1134449908923238282005-12-12T23:54:00.000-05:002005-12-13T00:00:18.756-05:00

It’s easy to feel small. I think we feel small all the time. That’s why we try so hard to get big. When we’re young we want to be older, bigger, capable, successful. When we’re older, we don’t necessarily want to be older, but we want to be significant. It’s the fuel of all marketing, isn’t it? Buy this… be that.I think we know we’re small.I think I don’t like to admit it.Small.Advent takes

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133799222930722172005-12-05T10:47:00.000-05:002005-12-06T07:14:18.433-05:00

The Emergent West Michigan gathering is made up of ministry leaders in the community who are wrestling with how to express the Gospel throught the church in our rapidly changing culture. This group has been a huge lifeline for me and I have made some great friends here.I'm facilitating the conversation on Wednesday 12/14. Here's the topic and what we're hoping to explore. If you're in the

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133750972012793552005-12-04T21:42:00.000-05:002005-12-04T21:52:37.490-05:00

In those days there appeared John the Baptist, preaching in the Wilderness (Desert) of Judea And saying, Repent (think differently; change your mind, regretting your sins and changing your conduct), for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 3.1-2)I think everyone wants to feel better about something in their lives… some might dare desire healing.It’s this way in the physical world.

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133534446094780642005-12-02T09:36:00.000-05:002005-12-02T09:41:19.283-05:00

This week in house church, we were discussing the necessity of Advent. Why do we need to take a special time to do what we should be doing all the time? A point well-taken.For me personally, I find the rhythms of the church calendar and the church service essential or immersing me in the story of God– It helps me take a look around. It’s too easy for me to fall into patterns of my faith

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133528556642131712005-12-02T07:57:00.000-05:002005-12-02T09:14:51.106-05:00

David Rudd seems to think I resemble Mr. Bingly (the one on the right) in this movie.Click the title post and tell me what you think.I'm not sure why I'm highlighting this other than I'm baffled that David would use precious brain cells pondering the topic.Poke around his blog. He has some good thoughts and musings here...Thanks David!

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133451872417437292005-12-01T10:27:00.000-05:002005-12-01T12:54:19.920-05:00

Pray for healing in our world from this pandemic.You can light a candle and take a quiet moment online here.There are many organizations doing great work in fighting AIDS. World Vision is one of them. Here's place you can contribute to AIDS relief through World Vision.

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133388475240466752005-11-30T21:50:00.000-05:002005-11-30T21:49:14.776-05:00

And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honor, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth. – John 1:14 (Amplified Bible)I mentioned before that I don’t see Jesus “popping in” on our world. Jesus

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1133096791280639442005-11-27T07:49:00.001-05:002005-11-27T09:04:43.416-05:00

Today marks the first day of Advent for the Christian Church. Over the past few years, this has become a more significant part of our family’s preparation for Christmas. I think we miss something if so much emphasis is put only on Christmas. Christmas celebrated today feels like Jesus “popping in” on the world and the world is just supposed to “get it.” I don’t see Jesus “popping in” anywhere

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132807274716568882005-11-24T00:00:00.000-05:002005-11-23T23:41:14.733-05:00

Sometimes I get so caught up in all I’m to be thankful for… that I don’t slow down long enough to merely live in thankfulness and contentment.I look forward to embracing this day… finding beauty in the little things, experiencing joy in the people I love, having hope in God’s care, and feeling peace through simply being present with others.Peace to you this day, friends…

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132549629643208412005-11-21T23:00:00.000-05:002005-11-22T07:39:01.693-05:00

So... the great part about posting my promises! was that it helped me think about what I was doing for the YS weekend. I actually had people asking me about them at the convention... whew, the pressure!Without boring you by going through my list again, I'll just mention that I desperately needed the centering in the prayer room as was grateful for it (thanks YS team for carving out that physical

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132547853940313992005-11-20T23:22:00.000-05:002005-11-20T23:44:49.320-05:00

Dear YS exhibitors, I’ve just finished walking through the exhibit hall at the YS National Youth Workers Convention… and I’m feeling a bit angst-ridden…Let me start by saying that I am overwhelmed with the passion and zeal I see through the plethora of ministries represented, and the enthusiasm of those at the booths who want to serve youth ministry leaders. I do not question your heart, nor

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130467139535685402005-11-20T08:35:00.000-05:002005-11-21T08:02:43.473-05:00

Got a chance to connect with my good friend and youth ministry guru, Mark Riddle at YS Nashville yesterday.If you’re looking for a great way to interact with other youth leaders who seek to critically discuss youth ministry, check out what Mark is facilitating through Biblical Theological Seminary. Riddle has invited Kenda Dean, Ginny Olsen, Tony Jones, Dan Kimball, Mike King, and me to be guest

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132417510530028452005-11-19T11:15:00.000-05:002005-11-21T07:57:48.376-05:00

Often, I don’t like the word “ministry.” It has too much baggage associated with it. “Ministry” feels too much like a job (“I’m a minister"), too professional sounding (“ministry” over and above “volunteering”… another word I don’t like), or too patronizing (I’m going to “do ministry” to you… gee thanks). But since I’m at the National Youth Workers Convention in Nashville, and we are dealing

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132315155524772812005-11-18T06:52:00.000-05:002005-11-18T06:59:15.553-05:00

Maybe it’s because of the spectacle of the event… even more… because it’s something I believe in…Because of the Triune nature of God… I believe in the value of the gathered community.Because of the Sovereignty of God… I believe that each of us is gathered for a reason.Because of the Love God… I believe that we offered the opportunity to love God back and love others.Because of the Missio dei… I

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1132012511964923692005-11-14T18:50:00.000-05:002005-11-14T18:55:12.133-05:00

While at YS, I promise…To be still for at least one hour in the prayer room.To spend more time processing ideas in seminars than looking for free stuff in the exhibition hall.To not pretend to ask people questions that only set me up to talk about my own ministry.To refuse bringing up numbers, percentages, or projections about how huge my ministry is or is going to be.To run at least 10k in the

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1131681451919050542005-11-11T12:00:00.000-05:002005-11-11T12:30:55.703-05:00

With 80+ seminars to choose from at the YS NYWC… how does one choose? All deserve a look and the great thing is that there are a plethora of options for all kinds of youth leaders.If I had to narrow down my picks, here’s some that I would consider…Doug Fields (Thursday, 11/17-18 Critical Concerns Course)Starting Right: Your First Two Years in Ministry If you’re new to youth ministry. Invest

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1131678260662212722005-11-10T21:59:00.000-05:002005-11-11T06:22:22.936-05:00

We’ll be presenting at our third NYWC in Nashville, next weekend. It’s been great to be with so many youth workers at each of the conventions this fall. Nashville (or Nashvegas as many of my friends are calling it) will be the biggest NYWC of the three. Over 7000 are expected to attend. Crazy.Dave and I will be presenting two seminars here. Here are the descriptions and our scheduled times.

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1131625661429128632005-11-10T07:17:00.000-05:002005-11-10T10:20:29.590-05:00

We had the privilege of hosting Stuart Briscoe at GRTS yesterday. He spoke in chapel, met with some of our Residency Mentors, and taught the homiletics class. The students loved him.Stuart is an important person in my life as I grew up at Elmbrook Church, under his teaching, and had the privilege of leading the high school ministry there. Stuart used to tell us, “Don’t’ take yourself too

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1131324450632803232005-11-06T19:39:00.000-05:002005-11-06T20:02:19.046-05:00

I had to do it.Florida in November, for a Michigander, means you must go to the beach. Despite the fact that I’m directionally challenged, I managed to find the beach and catch the tail end of a Gulf sunset. I made it, barely. But in enough time to role my cords up and walk in the water. It felt great and I called Jen so we could share the sunset together. I took these shots and then tried to

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1131072806984826102005-11-03T21:43:00.000-05:002005-11-03T21:55:38.156-05:00

I’m headed to Fort Myers, FL this weekend. I’m presenting for Group Publishing’s Group Magazine Live and I’ll be at Crossroads Baptist Church. If you read this and you happen to be in Fort Myers, give me a shout. It’s going to be 80+ degrees there and I wonder how my November, Michigan-acclimated body will adjust to the climate change… I think I’ll be just fine. I’m definitely packing the

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130897703894297232005-11-01T21:12:00.000-05:002005-11-01T21:21:54.270-05:00

So, picking up from my last post, I’d like to reflect on one aspect of my marathon that I found stunning. Call this the fruit of 3 plus hours of running and thinking, or the late stages of delirium, but I couldn’t help but conclude that runners have a better eschatology than most churchgoers.Here’s the scenario: I’m running with the 3.15 pacer and a group of runners who want to make a 3.15

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130724916415261412005-10-30T21:08:00.000-05:002005-11-03T00:15:20.476-05:00

Marathoners in Grand Rapids couldn’t ask for a better day to run. The weather was beautiful, the sun was out, and the temps were in the 50’s… perfect marathon weather. We had 600 marathoners and 400 half-marathoners.I stuck close to one of the marathon pacers today. The pacing team did a remarkable job keeping us on track and teaching us along the way. Here are a couple of reminders I

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130604487061346962005-10-29T11:41:00.000-05:002005-10-29T11:48:07.120-05:00

There's one advantage to having a last name that begins with "A"... you usually get a good number. I'm 24 for this race. Speaking of 24... less than 24 hours till we get this party started. Can't wait.My friend Chris got some great news from the Mayo Clinic this week. Looks like his cancer is less serious than originally anticipated. This is wonderful news for him and his family. My run for

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130381976901079712005-10-27T07:56:00.000-05:002005-10-27T07:50:46.296-05:00

This Sunday I’m running the Grand Rapids Marathon. It will be my 10th marathon. Ironically, the first one I ran back in the early ‘90s was after I recovered from back surgery. Each one of these is a thrill and a big “thank you” for my recovery and the chance to run.The challenge in a marathon is that one has to plan for it and train over the long haul. No one can spontaneously decide to do

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1130187330366253302005-10-24T15:52:00.000-05:002005-10-24T15:57:21.946-05:00

I’ve had a hard time writing since the funeral, as everything seems so trite in comparison. So here’s my feeble attempt to unpack my weekend…So how does a funeral really “go?” People have been kind to me all weekend asking me “How did it go?” I know what they mean. They mean, “We’re thinking of you,” “We’re with you,” “We’ve prayed,” or “We’re sorry for all of this.” It’s rather encouraging

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1129778129524279952005-10-19T22:14:00.000-05:002005-10-19T22:24:23.130-05:00

Tragic news this week. Branden, a former student from our youth Ministry at Elmbrook Church, was involved in a tragic, highway accident early Sunday morning in Wisconsin. I am headed to Milwaukee tomorrow and will be speaking his funeral on Friday. Read the StoryPlease pray for the Atherton family, close friends, the students and families at Chippewa Falls HS where Branden was student teaching

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1129514169140412052005-10-16T20:53:00.000-05:002005-10-16T20:58:30.976-05:00

We had a great time at NYWC – Pittsburgh this weekend. Thanks to all of you who came to our seminars. The continual feedback we’re gaining is helping us present our own material more clearly. On a separate note, I never tire of listening to David Crowder.So I took my own advice and went to a YS seminar that I recommended on Saturday morning called “Balancing Your Life as a Woman in Youth

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1129513613683484752005-10-16T20:42:00.000-05:002005-10-16T20:59:33.883-05:00

Ah… so sweet. Just had to share my joy with you all.I bet my Gopher friend, Joe, that whoever lost this game, would have to put the opposing team’s letter on their site. So, please go to Joe’s blog, touch the red “W” and leave a Badger message on his site. I don’t want him to forget this glorious moment.On Wisconsin!

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1129121143194038622005-10-12T07:28:00.000-05:002005-10-12T08:16:23.526-05:00

Dave and I will be at the YS NYWC this week in Pittsburgh, PA. If you’re in the neighborhood, look me up. I have margin, especially on Friday to hang out over a good cup of joe.We were really glad for the response we received in Sacramento. A lot of thoughtful, passionate youth workers showed up. We're look forward to leading our two seminars again...Oct 15 (Sat) 2.00-4.30 PM (Super Seminar)“

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1128944656250684562005-10-10T06:40:00.000-05:002005-10-10T08:23:26.220-05:00

My other observation from my trip to the Big House this weekend, had to do with the number of plays that were challenged. In the pros, and now in college football, teams can challenge the referee’s calls. The plays are reviewed in the press box and referees plays either stand or are overturned, to the boos or cheers of the fans. Our seats where right by the “red phone.” Note that Lynn Swan is

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1128944428708659652005-10-10T06:36:00.000-05:002005-10-10T06:40:28.716-05:00

This past weekend, I went with my good friend JP to the Michigan game. As a Wisconsin Badger alum, it was a bit strange to walk into a sea of 100,000 blue and maize fans, when “red and white” feels much more at home to me. Nonetheless, it was a terrific game against Minnesota, and now as an official Michigander, I found myself rooting for the home team.The sad part for Michigan, was that they

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1128517537120559882005-10-05T08:01:00.000-05:002005-10-05T08:05:37.140-05:00

There once were boys and girls who loved their parents. Their dad and mom loved them and were good to them. They fed them, protected them, and played with them. Sometimes the children got in trouble, but the mom or dad was quick to discipline them and the kids learned quickly what was acceptable and what was not.As the kids grew, they had more questions for dad and mom about home, relationships,

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1128230722563288842005-10-02T00:23:00.000-05:002005-10-02T00:27:36.073-05:00

I decided to hit the Saturday, 8AM seminar with Duffy Robins and Tony Jones, moderated by Dan Kimball. As from the title, this seminar was designed to be a softer, more positive discussion than the one set up a few years ago with a panel (of which Tony, Duffy, and Dan were on) that was called “Crossfire.” That experience was exhilarating, but left too many loose ends for youth pastors still

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1128177281543052702005-10-01T09:32:00.000-05:002005-10-01T09:35:35.956-05:00

So we made it! The conference is off to a good start. I’m mulling over my reflections. More to come…The first of our sessions is this afternoon. Livermore took this shot and stopped traffic to make it happen (kudos to him).

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1127951808333885752005-09-29T07:40:00.000-05:002005-09-29T07:39:59.896-05:00

My mother in law, Pat, gave me a book on Puritan prayers and devotions. It’s called, “The Valley of Vision” (ed. Arthur Bennett. Banner of Truth Pub).It starts this way…LORD, HIGH AND HOLY, MEEK AND LOWLY, Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision, where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.Let me learn by paradox that the way

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1127651237397673752005-09-25T07:22:00.000-05:002005-09-25T17:49:45.696-05:00

Dave Livermore and I will be out at the NYWC this weekend. We’re doing two sessions:Oct 1 (Sat) 2.00-4.30 PM (Super Session)“Pursuing a Theological Matrix for Youth Ministry: Intersecting Theology with Real-Life Youth Ministry”Our approach to shepherding has been to recognize that there are many lenses that create our own matrix of understanding and interpretation that quickly spill over into our

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1127505634979844272005-09-23T14:51:00.000-05:002005-09-23T15:27:01.423-05:00

My friend Andre at Mosaic Life has become a gracious and inspiring friend to me since I've arrived in GR. He and I have had some great conversations about theology, emergent, trans-culturalism and music. His latest post is really thought provoking. Click the title to link to it.Also, he recommend a book to me that has rocked my world. It's by Howard Thurman called, "Jesus and the Disinherited

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1127271775201896112005-09-20T21:57:00.000-05:002005-09-20T22:08:06.383-05:00

Eleven of us converged on Grand Rapids for our second, three-day gathering this year. Our cohort has committed to stay connected over the year through phone, blog, and quarterly gatherings to explore fresh paradigms of mission, formation, calling, and vision.The beauty of this expression has been the concentrated gatherings, the ongoing discussions, and the promise that we’ll see each other

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1127182183925629802005-09-19T21:05:00.000-05:002005-09-19T21:16:36.886-05:00

Bob Webber graciously spent a few days with the GRTS folk this past week. Last Thursday he gave us his assessment of the types of generations now in church leadership (Traditionalists, Pragmatists, and Younger Evangelicals). What makes these three generations unique is that western Christianity (mainly American) has three distinct approaches to life and mission. These outlooks on life,

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1126618782015644252005-09-13T08:33:00.000-05:002005-09-13T08:39:42.023-05:00

Brian McLaren was at GRTS yesterday participating in a conversation with Mike Wittmer, professor of Systematic Theology at GRTS, and Ed Dobson, pastor of Calvary Church in Grand Rapids. The conversation, in my estimation, was really a conversation rather than a debate. What I experienced were three people, passionate about the gospel of Jesus and the church sharing their dreams, concerns, and

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1126474220186519542005-09-11T16:20:00.000-05:002005-09-11T16:54:20.323-05:00

This is a really significant for me. It’s a picture of me with my friend, Troy. Troy is one of those people you run into at some point in time as you’re following a dream or a journey. And when you meet, something just clicks. Troy and I met about 6 years back. Together, we’ve been through some of the most significant times (for me) of ministry together. They were inspiring times, and

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1126472771507898822005-09-11T16:04:00.000-05:002005-09-11T16:08:22.173-05:00

This week, September 14-16, world leaders will be gathering in NYC to discuss global suffering caused by extreme poverty. Mars Hill is participating in the event.In the spirit of suffering everywhere, whether it is due to the assault on human life, natural disaster, even our own choices, please check out this site and take time to reflect on the suffering in our world... and pray for solutions.

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1125548249193388682005-08-31T23:07:00.000-05:002005-08-31T23:19:45.726-05:00

I received Group’s latest issue this week– “Help for Kids in Pain.” A few years back, I was interviewed and asked to give my reflections on something that happened in the fall, 6 years (then 4 years) ago. I was surprised to see the article show up in this issue. The memory is still cuts deep, but also seems foggy. I think it seems foggy now, because it was foggy then. I came to work on a

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1123167726343703792005-08-04T09:58:00.000-05:002005-08-04T10:05:13.610-05:00

Youth Leaders and Parents of teenagers... check out Time Magazine’s cover story this week… “Being 13.” You can also link to some of the material through… Time Magazine Online

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1123122815392322302005-08-03T21:25:00.000-05:002005-08-03T21:41:28.583-05:00

I got this “promo” in an email today.Can someone please explain to me how this helps the Christian cause? Is this what we want our friends to hear as the essence of the Gospel… “Believe in Jesus so you won’t go to hell or be left behind with all the bad people?”Is this salvation?Is this love for God?Is this helping us live well in the world which God calls "good?"Can someone explain to me why I

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1122261366656609832005-07-24T22:11:00.000-05:002005-07-24T22:17:24.733-05:00

Last week, I joined the over 9 million world-wide potter-ites, by picking up the Half Blood Prince. Some say (especially religious types) that literature can’t compete with video games, movies, computers, etc., etc. Maybe its’ time to admit that the problem isn’t a lack of reading, but the lack of good story tellers. I give mega kudos to JK Rowling for her amazing ability to tell a wonderful

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1121470439839305042005-07-15T18:15:00.000-05:002005-07-15T18:37:59.930-05:00

We had an awesome time togther at our Emergent West Michigan group this past Wednesday. Kudos to Dr. Mike Wittmer from Grand Rapids Theolgocial Seminary for his insights, cheers, and challenges toward the emergent expression.I walked away pondering one particular idea that pertains to the inter-relationship we face in our ministries of believing, belonging, and behaving (for lack of sexier terms

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1120751646065915582005-07-07T10:54:00.000-05:002005-07-08T06:49:09.090-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } top.bus.07.ap.jpg, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. I'm a bit numb as I heard of the bombing this morning. I feel frozen to go about my daily activity while people, hours away, are pulling out of the carnage. I'm

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1119552237148422572005-06-23T13:42:00.000-05:002005-06-23T14:17:09.976-05:00

So... I never know if I take these tests right. And now I feel labeled, pegged, etc... everything I don't want to be and don't want to do to anyone else.But heck, they're fun. Give it a spin...John Calvin93%Jürgen Moltmann73%Martin Luther60%Friedrich Schleiermacher60%Anselm60%Karl Barth53%Paul Tillich53%Jonathan Edwards47%Augustine27%Charles Finney20%Which theologian are you?created with

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1118930190235075562005-06-16T08:56:00.000-05:002005-06-16T09:14:26.253-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } LCBC Gang, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. One of the things we love is having people over at our home, and we especially love having friends crash here when they are traveling through town. This week, Jason Mitchell

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1118632954765422182005-06-12T22:22:00.000-05:002005-06-12T22:28:33.176-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } , originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. My oldest daughter went to, what I consider, her first "youth retreat" alone this weekend. I was nervous.I felt like she and I needed to have a talk before we put her on the bus that

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1116440885979762832005-05-18T13:28:00.000-05:002005-05-18T14:06:02.020-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } looking ahead, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. Jesus' call to follow him seems to be a call from the familiar to the unknown (Jesus says "follow" but he never makes it clear "where")... those who follow follow by

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1111037049221923172005-03-17T00:24:00.000-05:002005-03-17T00:29:02.050-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } crowd, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. We all showed up at the announced time. Many got there early to get a good seat.It’s amazing how so many people from so many backgrounds can come together, and for an hour,

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1110338576177155612005-03-08T22:22:00.000-05:002005-03-08T22:26:47.920-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Up Close, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. So, I was in a discussion with high school students a few weeks ago and I asked this question: “If you were to go to a country and delivered food to starving people, would

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1107921688205103442005-02-08T23:01:00.000-05:002005-02-08T23:06:05.606-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Cross, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent starts this week. It marks 40 days until Good Friday where Jesus followers prepare for Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter. Our family has

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1107411578073636522005-02-03T01:19:00.000-05:002005-02-03T01:39:32.153-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Time, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. I watched Larry King Tuesday night… well sort of. My hands covered my face half the time… like what I do when I watch a horror movie. “Don’t go in that room!”… “Don’t say THAT!

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1105986451077797302005-01-17T13:27:00.000-05:002005-01-17T13:30:48.720-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 14, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." – Martin Luther King, Jr.

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1105724557707556052005-01-15T01:07:00.000-05:002005-01-18T06:17:57.063-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } usnv9158, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. Well, we’re two weeks into 2005 and it’s traditional for me to already be "checking up" on my new year’s resolutions. I admit that I can be a geek that way. I don’t have

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1102861126258733862004-12-12T09:18:00.000-05:002004-12-12T11:01:53.650-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } Run Steve Run. Advent… it’s a time to prepare for the approach of Christmas. So what might be our approach? What does it mean for us to come close to the birth of Jesus… to walk up to the manger? And what might we see

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9402014.post-1101875622022851812004-11-30T23:33:00.000-05:002004-11-30T23:36:45.646-05:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } airJesusTshirts, originally uploaded by Run Steve Run. We’ll admit it. We’ve been there right with you. We’re working on the budget for our next big event, outing, or mission trip. The line item that never leaves and

stevehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09402253669765905936noreply@blogger.com3