Life Thoughts by Dr. B

Updated Pics

2011-08-27T17:41:00.000-04:00

Thought I would share this pic of my church staff! They all rock!!!

Back Online

2011-08-27T17:35:00.000-04:00

Ok folks...I am officially back online and will begin posting a new thought or articles every week or so. I am looking forward to seeing how this ministry will serve to benefit others and help me to grow as well.

The Waiting Game

2008-11-24T00:32:00.002-05:00

Most games I enjoy, but I have never liked the waiting game. I want to know now what I will be doing ten years from now. But it is funny how God rarely seems to work that way. In fact, he seems to tell us information mostly on a need to know basis. He says turn, and the exit is upon us as we jerk the wheel to the right in order to make the off ramp. God gives us enough bread for today.

In case you don't know, I am (we are) in the market for a job. I finish up with the residency part of my doctorate program on May 31, 2009, and I have no clue where we will end up on June 1. Part of the unknown is fun and exciting, but not as much as it used to be now that I have two other ladies in my life to provide for...and reality really sets in when you look at the little lady in your life and realize she is totally dependent upon Mom and myself for her sustenance. Scary thought for this relatively new Dad. So here are the action steps I have taken thus far.

1. Pray - is there really anything better we could be doing?
2. Network - I am connecting up with anyone and everyone who can help keep their eyes peeled for me.
3. Web Surf - I find myself on denominational websites quite often these days looking for openings.

Here is the funny part of this process. Every job I have ever received in my life has been because someone knew me and referred my name to the powers that be. I hope that occurs again, but you never know. So I find myself reworking the resume and writing a cover letter praying a great opportunity comes along.

What type of job am I looking for now? Lead pastor, campus pastor, etc. I am really open to whatever God has for me/us. I just want to be obedient to His voice, wherever and whenever He calls.

So if you have any more steps for me, please let me know. Also, keep your eyes peeled for me. I just know there is a ministry, school, etc. out there who can use my gifts and abilities...I must just wait for God to open that door. So we are back to where we started...playing that waiting game again! :)

Self-Assessment

2008-09-04T12:19:00.008-04:00

Ok it's time to be honest. How many of us really take time to self assess? How many of us really stop our busy lives, take time away, and re-evaluate who we are and what we are doing with our lives. We have to go deeper than simply looking at our external selves in the mirror. I am thanking God almost every day as I walk over to my study carrel, classes, etc. that I am doing this year away from ministry. Today, I had a professional development meeting with psychologist on campus. Well, let's just call it what it was...a glorified counseling session. Sure he gave me some great ideas about my ministry and vocation, but at least what I took away from the hour I had with him was some new and refreshing ideas regarding my philosophy of life, if you will. Here are some of the lessons I learned this morning.
1. Life is more about time spent with the Father than the busyness that we often surround ourselves with. Therefore, we need to ask ourselves, "Are we running our schedule or is our schedule running us?" A good question for most extroverts with a penchant for pleasing.
2. What are your boundaries? I do not like saying no. For some of us, we need to say yes more. But for me, no is good word!
3. Self-management involves more than just time management. It really deals with your physical life, spiritual life, emotions, etc. How are you doing in this area? Are you healthy in one or 2 of these areas, but not overall?
4. There are evidences of deeper issues in everyday life, if you stop and take time to self-evaluate. For example, highlighted this morning was my bent to breadth and not depth in my relationships. This bubbles over into my ministry and personal life as well. How am I feeding my soul and going deeper with my family, friends, and even my church where I am ministering?
Well this is a good start for me, but what about you? Take time today to stop and get away and look again at what you are doing and why you are doing it. Become more self-aware, because then you can determine next steps in life!

Relational Leadership

2008-08-04T13:37:00.003-04:00

This is the latest regarding my dissertation topic. I have brainstormed around 10 topics, but I do believe this one will stick (fingers crossed). I have actually finished chapter one, thanks to my class last week taught by Dr. Verna Lowe. She was amazing and really shoved us and challenged us to write, write, write. At times I wondered if I was going to drowned, but she assured us that would not be the case, and it wasn't. Finally, I landed the plane on the topic of relational leadership. I learned that this is who I am. I lead out of relationships. I cannot be any other way because of who I am and the way God made me. Thus, chapter 2 of our dissertation is all about reviewing pertinent literature that has to do with our topic. So Dr. Tumblin put me on to the book here at the right. It's an easy read and a great book...would recommend to anyone. However, the author never really defines relational leadership in specific terminology. Thus, I am going to do that for him in my dissertation. I am quite excited about the topic, especially as it relates to church health and zeroing in on pastoral staff health in regards to relational leadership. If you have any info on this subject for me, let me know please. I will read it and need to read it.

A Long Night

2008-07-14T10:57:00.005-04:00

Last night was a very long night. At around 7:30pm, Halle tripped over a book and fell headlong into the corner of an open dresser drawer. She fell right on the corner of the drawer and received a deep cut above her right eyebrow. Needless to say, we were freaking out. Shan started crying and I ran looking for anything to stop the bleeding. Finally, we decided to drive over to the Welch's and have Sarah-Marie look at her. Being a nurse, she recommended we go in for stitches. AH! So sad! We headed out then for Central Baptist Hospital and the ER. Upon arrival, we saw the ER full of patients already. Finally they took us back and gave her 2 stitches. This was the hardest of all because Shan and I had to help in holding her down while the PA sewed up her wound. Thus, Mom started crying again. I am thoroughly convinced that an incident of this nature is harder on the parents than it is on the child. Halle pain is external; ours is internal. All said, we finally got in bed around midnight. Now our prayer is for her total recovery and as little scarring as possible.
Ah...and to think we have only been in Wilmore, KY for a little over a week. Let's hope there are no more incidents the next 10.5 months.

Leaving the WU...It's gonna be hard to do!

2008-04-17T00:46:00.003-04:00

I am just now really starting to realize that in a little over two months, we will no longer be residents of Marion, Indiana. I never thought I would say this, but that will be a sad day. I mean, not that I don't have great memories of Marion from college, but moving here was not my first choice due to the natural beauty of South Marion! :) However, after being here 2 years, I have come to truly love the people and the town and the 2 colleges that are in the areas, being IWU and TU.

This picture of myself, Halle, and Lindsey Wachter at an IWU men's basketball game this year really epitomizes what I love about college ministry. Here is a success story in Lindsey. She comes from a non-Christian home and was in my youth group for 3 years. I prayed that she would attend a great Christian school like IWU so she could keep growing in her faith...and she did! Now she will be entering her junior year of college and wow! I am getting old. I have former youth group kids getting ready to graduate college. What is the world coming to? In fact, there are 6 alone that attend IWU. YaY God! That alone is a success in my opinion. Oh well, I do love this place, my ministry, and these kids. I can only pray God will take care of them and continue to grow them long after I am gone physically out of their lives.

It's Official!

2008-02-13T23:23:00.003-05:00

I can't believe this is happening, but I am going back to school. I found out right before Christmas that I was accepted into Asbury Theological Seminary's Beeson Pastor Program. This means that I can obtain my Doctor of Ministry degree beginning this summer. Thus, you guessed it, I will be leaving my job as the College and Young Adult Pastor at College Wesleyan Church on June 1, 2007.
The only adjective I can think of to describe this time in my life and the life of my family is "bittersweet." I feel as though it is bitter because we have such a great thing going right now. We love our church. I love my job. We love our little house and even Marion! :) We love the students we work with and the young adults we do life with. Especially with me and 747 and the college ministry, it is hard for me to think of leaving. I compare it to having a kid, and then leaving them at 2 years old in the hands of someone else. Someone will continue to grow this child I have birthed, for lack of a better analogy! :) We have gone from nothing last September to now we are averaging over 150-160 students per week in our service on Sunday nights. We have 25 students on our leadership team for 747. We have 18 students going on a spring break missions trip to NYC. God is blessing what is happening here at CWC! Therefore, it is bitter to think of leaving at this time.
However, learning that I was accepted into a doctorate program is also sweet. Sweet because I applied two years ago to 3 doctorate programs and one master's program...and was rejected to all of them. I couldn't understand what was happening to me. Why all this rejection? Now I know. The cool thing about this program I got accepted into is that they pay for everything. All my books, tuition, travel expenses, housing, utilities, etc. are paid for during next year! I even get a free laptop computer! I simply cannot ask for anything better. And this has been a dream of mine now for years, and it is coming true!
So yes, it is official. As of June 1st, I will be moving on/back to Wilmore, Kentucky. And then who knows are that.
If time, check out the program at www.asburyseminary.edu/beeson

Making the Most of Lunch Dates

2007-12-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I do a ton of lunch dates. No, not dates in the college-sense (ha), but appointments, or times where you are connecting with colleagues, friends, family, leaders, etc. We all have them. However, I would argue that we all do not use them to the fullest extent we could. So, I began to think, "Do I utilize 'business' lunches to the fullest extent?" Thus, I am going to write keying on "business" lunches if you will. Keep in mind, I am not claiming to have the last word on proper lunch meeting etiquette, but I involve myself in this activity several times a week now for 5 years, so I feel as though I have some pertinent insight to offer.
The initial pickup - I often like to drive so that I can ride with my appointment. This increases the time we have to connect.
The ordering - As much as possible, and especially if I set it up, I like to pay. I know, you are sitting there reading saying, "Man I gotta go to lunch with this guy!" But I have always found that the more generous you are, the more God works through you in general in life. Even during this process, I do two things. One, I continue to connect with my appointment. I am catching up on life, love, family, etc. Secondly, I always try to meet the person taking my order. This is my evangelistic side coming out in me, but I love to take this opportunity to share Christ as much as possible.
The food - I consider this to be the time that you actually are either waiting for your food or eating your lunch. Here, I often will transition from regular small talk to a lead-in question regarding the purpose of my lunch date (which by the way, my lunch appointments do have purpose!). Am I recruiting them as a leader, needing their mentoring in my life, etc.? Why did I want to do lunch? So this brings us to the purpose.
The Purpose - Why are you having lunch? I always like to have this clearly pictured in my mind's eye before I pick the person up. I even envision the possible outcome that I am hoping for before we get together. Am I looking for advice, direction, confrontation? I usually discuss following the eating of the food. Also, as a sidenote here, be aware of your surroundings. I just ran into a girl last night at the local mall who was working in a store where I bought a Christmas gift for my wife. She knew me, but I didn't know her. She even said she sat beside me in a booth in a local restaurant a few weeks ago! Ah! I began to recount my lunch appointment that day as much as possible to see if I had talked about any sensitive matters. She even said she listened to our conversation somewhat! All said, always be aware of your surroundings, and even your topics of discussion. You just never know who is listening.
The Drop-off - On the drive back to work, I try and utilize this time to do one of two things. I always try and encourage and uplift the person I am with. How can I encourage them? How can I thank them for their time? Secondly, I share a plan of action. When can we do this again? How can we put feet to what we discussed? etc.
I know this sounds crazy, but I do feel that the more purposeful you can be with the time you spend with others, the more poignant and lasting your friendships, ministry, and influence will be.

Risking it All

2007-10-07T00:32:00.000-04:00

After watching my LSU Tigers defeat the the Florida Gators tonight, I realized again how no great feat is accomplished without great risk! LSU was 5 for 5 on fourth down attempts in the game, scoring touchdowns on two of those attempts. Sometimes you just gotta go for it! You have to lay it all on the line, for hopes of your desired outcome. So, more than answers, this raised some significant questions for me.

Do I lay it all on the line for my relationship with Christ to grow? I think of the Beattitudes and how Christ said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst..." Spiritual hunger is something I rarely hear a sermon preached on. Why is that? It is a topic I rarely hear others, and myself, talk about. Why is that? When it comes to spiritual growth, I know I give in too easy. If I am tired, I go to bed instead of going to the Word. If the time with God will take too long, I frequently will not do it.
Do I go for it on fourth down with my ministry? Do I try to reach others for Christ and and help my students grow and develop their spiritual hunger? How many creative, incarnational ideas am I developing and launching? Do I truly and honestly critique my own ministry for strengths and weaknesses?
What would life look like for me if I followed through and began to work on the questions in numbers 1 and 2 above? I feel as though my marriage might be different, my ministry, and my personal spiritual life.

May I be one who always goes for 1st down, even when it is fourth and inches.

Pics of My Beautiful Girl

2007-09-12T00:46:00.000-04:00

Ok so since my wife does this all the time, I figured I would post a few. So here we go. Here are some recent pics of our beautiful girl, Halle Anne Bradford.

Fast Facts for Fresh...Men

2007-08-31T23:07:00.000-04:00

Ok it is Freshmen Orientation Weekend here at IWU and Shan and I just hosted a small group of guys and girls in our home tonight. It brought back a ton of memories for me from my freshman year and the first weekend at school. I began to especially think of how myself and all my buddies were looking for Miss Right! Come on! You were too...admit it! So, with that in mind, here is my advice to all of you 18 year old men out there hoping to meet your match.
1. Listen - If you do nothing else, learn to listen. This is will take you further than you realize with members of the opposite sex. And I find that few guys, or anyone for that matter, really listens well. I think it's because it actually takes heart. You have to WANT to listen...and really care about what you are hearing.
2. Be genuine - I know this is supposed to be a no-brainer, but it isn't. Be who you are. If you don't like something, say so. If you do like it, say so. Don't say what you think the other wants to hear.
3. Be fun - No one wants to marry a stick in the mud. Get out there this weekend and go to the Island Party. Do the limbo, even if you bow out on the first round. Hey, at least you tried. You are showing that you can mix it up, even if you aren't the best mixer.
4. Be patient - Don't try to rush anything. Whether we are talking physically, spiritually, socially, whatever...rarely does anything worthwhile happen over night. Take your time. If you don't find your wife in the first weekend, don't give up! You have another four years in college, and well, in my case, another 9 years before you get married (I married 9 years after my freshman year in college).
5. Opposites attract, and marry - 95% of the successfully married couples that I know are some degree of opposite. I know of only one couple who are pretty much the same in their personality and married. Most married couples seem to compliment each other in their personality type. If one is extroverted, then the other is introverted. On the personality scale, they may not be polar opposites, but they are different. Thus, what am I saying? Well, if you love people and meeting new people and get energy from a crowd and from working a room of strangers, then you will probably be best matched with someone that gets energy from being alone or with one or two of their closest friends. This is just the way it works...for some reason. Think about it...it even kinda makes sense. And I think to a point, maybe God made it that way.
Ok I will continue these tips later...Do you have any that I should add?

The Roof that Was...

2007-07-17T00:51:00.000-04:00

I really thought my summer would be full of pre-planning for my ministry year up and coming, fun times with friends and tons of golf. However, I decided to place a new roof on my house! Oh my goodness! Incredible how time consuming and hard it has been. But I have learned that, by one simple project, several things have happened that I have never dreamed.
1. People have served. On one evening, I had 7 people working on the roof. Some volunteer, some getting paid, all having fun. Pretty cool when people come together on a project like this.
2. Manual labor is ok for a time, but I would go hungry if I had to do it all day everyday. I am not lying to you when I say I hurt every night when I go to bed. I wake at 7am and start working at 7:30am. Then, I quit at 10pm, or like tonight, almost 11pm.
3. Appreciation...I must extend appreciation to Kyle Doyon, Jason Ewer, Bryan Purvis, David Mui, Jim Vermilya, Geoffrey Buck, Aaron Tomlin, and others who have come to lend a helping hand. Without them, I would still be stripping cedar shake.
4. I miss my wife and baby girl. Even though I am only outside, I miss them terribly when I am not around, especially now with the baby! What am I going to do when I return to work! Ah!!!
Well have you ever done any projects like this? What did you learn?

Post-Labor Lessons Dad Style

2007-06-07T22:57:00.000-04:00

Wow! I cannot believe how much I really did not know about being a Dad. Here are some of the things I have learned in my short time of 9 days of Dad-hood.
1. Babies don't always cry right after birth. I wish someone had told me that. I told Shannon, "Look how beautiful she is." Then she retorted back, "Why isn't she crying?" I had to honestly answer, "I don't know." Finally, the doctor was able to get her crying, and she hasn't stopped since! Low and behold, babies don't always cry right away. Sometimes it takes the doctor a while to get the lungs going.
2. Breastfeeding is anything but easy. I just thought as soon as the baby was born, breastfeeding was second nature. However, it is quite the struggle for a few weeks. Only after a few days/week or 2, does it become easier.
3. Take time off. If at all possible, take time off, Dad, from your job for a week or so. This will only help you and your wife deal more appropriately with this unique time of transition in your life. I don't know what I would do right now if I did not have June and July off this summer. I am up late and in the wee hours of the morning trying to help Shannon out with the baby, changing diapers or just comforting my wife. There is no way I could be productive at my work if I were still working full time.
4. Pray Pray Pray. Take this time to truly draw close to God and pray for your spouse and child. It was extremely special for me as Dad to have numerous friends and family members pray for my daughter already. However, it is even more special to pray for your baby yourself, or with your spouse!
All said, I would not trade my daughter for the world. I cannot stop smiling nor can I quit looking at her. She is truly an amazing creation. Thank you God!

Going Home

2007-06-01T09:31:00.000-04:00

We are so excited right now because the doctors just left and they said we could go home, without the Billy-Rueben (sp?) blanket! No more little gloworm! YAY! So the first reason to give thanks is that we are going home. We have been here since Sunday at 12:30pm! Ah! Shan is ready for a new environment, and I am ready for my own bed and not the roll-out chair bed in the hospital room here. Secondly, we are excited to be going home without the blanket. It wraps around her to give her artifical light 24/7 in order to help with her Jondis. Her Jondis score has come down from 15.3 to this morning it was 13.1! YAY! All said, we are simply excited to be heading home. Keep praying for Shan's recovery as she still walks around like a slow moving grandmother, shuffling everywhere. Hopefully, she can continue to improve everyday. Here are some pics of my parents and my sister Lisa with her, as well as a picture from this morning.

Still here!

2007-05-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Well today is Wednesday and we are still at the hospital. Halle is great, she's a little jaundiced, so they're watching that and still helping me feed her. I feel the best I've felt yet, so that is an answer to prayer! I have been up and around a lot. Halle had her first photo shoot with the photographer this morning. She was so cute- I swear she's the cutest baby!! She melts my heart. She is so cute with her eyes open, very alert and looking around. Brian is amazing with her. It's been so neat to see him step in and help and be eager to do the dad stuff. He has already changed many diapers and is very good at it. He is the best care taker ever! Here are some updated pics and you can go to www. mgh.net to see her professional pics under baby pics at the nursery link. She's so precious!

New News on Halle Anne

2007-05-29T08:38:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest for ya'll...it has been going pretty well...everyone eventually left last night about 9pm and so for the first time, just the 3 Bradfords were together! Pretty cool...and a huge praise that my parents (Rev. C. V. and Dee Bradford) made it here yesterday at around 6pm! Impressive for a 900+ mile trip in less than 2 days...now, the challenge yesterday was trying to get her to breastfeed...I never dreamed it would be a challenge to start the baby eating in that way! Finally this morning it has started to come easier and Halle is taking to it a little better now...Keep praying for rest though as they wake Shan up every 2 hours or so to feed, thus keeping her quite tired.
Also, it has been such a blessing to have our church family here care for us...College Wesleyan has been so amazing at doing just that...loving on us!
Oh and I was able to sleep some last night here in the hospital room on a roll out single bed, so at least now we are coming to rest a little, which is a much needed change. Lastly, the nurse said the goal today is to get the magnesium drip, IV, and catheter out, so yay! Making Progress...but thanks again for praying! We will keep you all posted!

My Girl is Here!

2007-05-28T10:56:00.001-04:00

Halle Anne Bradford entered the world today at 6:40am weighing in at 8lbs 6oz. and measuring almost 21 inches long with a 14 inch head! The head was the main reason she was delivered by C-Section after 16+ hours of labor with 2 hours of hard labor! Since I have only had 15 minutes sleep within the last 27 hours, I hope this post makes sense. I have never had so many emotions run through me in my life and been so frazzled. But all is well right now as I look out in our hospital room. 3 generations of girls are all sleeping...Grandmother Gervel, Mom Bradford, and 1 day old baby girl Bradford! Pretty Cool. Well here are the pics we have so far. Keep praying all goes well and my wife recovers from the surgery!

The Waiting Game

2007-05-27T23:53:00.000-04:00

I hate just waiting! I want to know what is going to happen before it happens. But that is not the case when you are waiting for your wife to deliver your first child! We are sitting in Marion General Hospital right now and have been here since 1pm. We bolted out of church this morning right in the middle of Pastor's Steve message. Sorry Steve! Shan was having blurred vision and seeing spots, so we decided to head home. Pretty Crazy! We went home and called the doctor, and he said to come on to the hospital. While in a hospital room, we still thought we would be going home soon because she was just having a headache, dizzy, and blurry vision, thus just thinking her blood pressure was too high. Long story short, we are still here and it is midnight. Dr. Swan decided to induce her and thus broke her water at 2pm. She is about 6cm dialated right now, so we are just waiting for 10 cm. Anyway here are some pics of what we have now.

More Birthday Pics

2007-05-14T11:29:00.000-04:00

Birthday Bash 2007

2007-05-14T11:10:00.000-04:00

Here is the skinny on my 29th. We went to Logan's and ate dinner, then on to PinHeads Lanes in Noblesville, IN for bowling fun. John Freed was able to work it out so that we could get the amazing suite in the back. I would highly recommend this bowling suite if you ever get the chance. All said, it was a tremendously fun night. Here are all who attended.

Jason and Mischele Denniston

Mike and Kristen Hofer

Bob and Brenda Simpson

Tony Cole

Paul Cole

Kenny Wilson

John and Danielle Freed

Nate and Julie Lamb

Jason and Liz Ewer

Brian and Shannon Bradford

Bryan and Andi Purvis

Thanks everyone for an absolutely fun and enjoyable birthday celebration.

First Year Thoughts on Teaching College Courses

2007-04-29T23:19:00.000-04:00

Ok so I know I have only taught 3 college courses, and those have been adjunct, but I do feel as though I have learned a ton from the 3 classes of New Testament Survey here at IWU. So, just finishing up my last few grades and fresh off my last semester, here are my lessons gleaned from the experience.

The Syllabus is King. I wish I knew this going into last semester. Students always use that as their guide, and profs use it as their leverage. If it ain't on there, you can't hold'em to it! (southern translation).
Don't Get Behind in Grading. Wow! How huge is this? I just finished my grading with about twelve hours to spare. I need to learn how to space out my assignments more so that all of them are not due the last week of the semester.
Be careful asking students for evaluations. You may just get what you asked for. Although most of my comments are positive, there are always those few that manage to toughen your skin, and hopefully not hurt your heart too much.
Plunder the Egyptians. I actually went and sat in on another professor's lecture and listened to her teach. This way, I learned a few new techniques and was able to implement them into my teaching style. It never hurts to learn from the best and then take what you learn and plug it in...I know my students appreciated it.
Beware of Technology. Always plan for the worst when it comes to technology. Most of the time it works, but when it doesn't, life can come to a standstill. Thus, I always had a plan B waiting in the ranks just in case for the second semester.
It is a new day. What do I mean by that? Well, now students are surfing the web in your class, thus they can check on the web and see if what you are teaching, explaining, etc. is actually true. Thus, you better have your subject matter down and understand it very well. Humorously, I asked for a definition of a difficult word, and within seconds, one of my more comical students gave me a textbook answer right from dictionary.com.

All said, I would not trade this last year for anything. I love the students and seeing them "get it." What else what you add, and thus make a number 7 or 8 in the list?

Fairness of Life

2007-01-23T23:01:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, Josh Buck had a terrible swimming accident and lies now in the ICU in a Miami hospital. He is fighting to regain feeling in his upper and lower body, and if you do not know him, here is a quick run down. He is a fun, talented, and passionate man of God with a great family. Josh is a Wesleyan church planter in Grand Rapids, Michigan and gifted worship leader and networker. Tragically, around one and half years ago or so, he and his wife lost their infant child to a freak accident in her crib and now Josh may or may not walk again. Thus, this scenario is prompting this writing...Is Life really fair?
I have been struggling with this question a lot lately. How is it that a man like Josh has had so much bad happen to him lately. Granted, I am a pastor and know a lot of the answers that I should know, but I cannot help but wonder now. Why does so much bad happen to such a great guy that is serving God with all he has in him? And an even deeper question that I have is why is it that I make those conclusions in my mind? Why do I think that just because you are good, then only good things will happen to you? I know I need to rethink my logic.
Bad things happen to bad and good people. But for some reason, my head tells me it should not be that way. If you are bad, then bad should happen to you. If you are good, then good should follow close behind. But, I suppose if you look at Christ, he was perfect and was ultimately crucified for it. So, maybe it is just that I think subconsciously followers of Christ should avoid suffering and even not have to go through it, but if anything, the New Testament seems to guarantee the opposite.
So I know i have touched on a few different issues, but these are my random thoughts after a week of praying and pulling for a friend, spiritual brother, and fellow ecclesiastical professional who may not walk again. Keep praying for Josh and check out his progress at www.greenhouseministries.org

More Ultrasound Pics

2007-01-13T22:12:00.000-05:00

I am sorry but I just have to...I am simply soooo excited that I wanted to post more of them!

It WILL BE a Girl!

2007-01-13T22:01:00.000-05:00

Ok it is official! Come June 2nd, we will be having a girl! Ahhhhhh! Ok I have to admit, I was really hoping for a boy first. But, I know I will just love my girl to death when she comes. Two of my high school friends both had girls first and they simply cannot be torn from them. I am just glad all is ok and the baby is healthy and strong so far. Her ultrasound was amazing as she was moving around and even sticking her fingers in her mouth. Shannon says she will be a little cheerleader like her. I just hope I will be the best Dad for her and I want her to have the best for sure.
God knows what He is doing giving me a girl first, so I must trust him and allow Him to work everything out to His glory. But it is just crazy for me to think that Shannon is already 20 weeks along, thus halfway already...well pray for us over the next 20 weeks if you think of it...I am sure those weeks will fly by quickly.

Lessons Learned after 1 Year

2006-12-19T23:36:00.000-05:00

I just returned last weekend from a trip to Frankenmuth, Michigan for mine and Shannon's one year anniversary. As we spent some much needed time together, we discussed all the change that we have been through in the last year. Even more than discussion, I have taken it a step further and truly began to reflect on what I have learned after one year of marriage. Here goes:

Give and Give - I really believe this is what marriage is about. Not about give and take, but about give and give. If I always give, and she always gives, then we will never have to worry about taking...does that make sense?
Confession - Whether I am sneaking around and eating the no-no late night snacks or sleeping in and not working out, I must confess all to my wife. Thus, she will never have room for doubt in my character.
Accountability - Who is keeping me accountable? I need to allow especially my wife to speak into my life to help mold me and shape me. This leads into the next one.
Growth - You can never stop growing as a husband. You always have to be reassessing how you are doing and what you can do better in your marriage.
Work - Marriage is work. Wow! I wish I had a better handle on this before, but the emotion wears off and what is left is a choice. Am I going to love her or not? It is a choice. A choice that has to be made every day when you wake up to love, and serve, and give.
Love - I really do love Shannon more and more everyday. That is what it is about at the end of the day. I love our differences and our similarities.

I could keep going, but those are just some of my thoughts as I reflect. What are your thoughts? Any ones you would add? Take away?

Baby Bradford

2006-10-19T12:52:00.000-04:00

Ok so it's official. We are going to have a baby! Yes, Brian and Shannon are going to be parents...And how am I feeling...a little freaked out! AHHHH! I did not believe it until we actually went to the doctor. I had to ask the nurse if Shannon really was pregnant and she said, oh yes, it is a certainty! Is this really happening? Apparently so, and we are pumped, yet nervous. Shannon has had morning sickness about every day for 2 weeks now...definitely not fun and I want to fix everything but cannot. Thus, pretty frustrating for me at times because I want to make everything better for her. She is tired a lot and nauseated. But I hear that comes with the territory. Anyways, if you think of it, pray for her and us and the baby that all will go well. And if you have any pre-parenting advice, especially for me, let me know that as I can use all I can get.

747 Update

2006-10-13T00:00:00.000-04:00

God is moving. That is the best way to sum it up. On September 3, God worked it out so that we could launch a new college service here at College Wesleyan called 747. I call it 747 because it starts at 7:47pm on Sunday nights. From the very beginning, I committed it to God and He began to work. The first Sunday we had 40 students. Then, we had 80. On September 17, our kickoff night, we had 130! Since then we have averaged about 80 students. I cannot wait to see what He will continue to do with the service as we have an all worship night coming this Sunday night.
If you think of it, please add it to your prayer list as I feel God will only continue to grow it and bless it if prayer happens.

Teaching, Preaching, and Reuniting

2006-09-20T11:21:00.000-04:00

Regarding teaching, I felt like I hit a stride this week. Yesterday, I lectured on the Good Samaritan in my New Testament Survey class and talked about how it is really about racism and sin in the life of highly religious persons. Wow! Talk about social dynamite. It was truly a class that I loved.
Regarding Preaching, our 747 college venue service here at CWC has just been exploding. The first week we had 40, second week we had 80, and now this past week, we had about 120-130. And this past week, I really felt God used the worship and the my message to speak to the students, but also to myself! I was so much more confident in the Word God gave me, which makes all the difference in the world.
Regarding Reuniting, this weekend is my 10 year high school reunion and I am realizing what a great witnessing opportunity. I get to tell all these people what I do now for a living and how much I love God! I have not seen many of these persons in years. Now I just have to choose if I am going to be quiet about my faith, or be bold when the situation arises and share the love of God that I have in my life. My prayer is for boldness and spiritual wisdom and discernment this weekend.

Random Thoughts about Random Things

2006-09-13T23:18:00.000-04:00

I usually write more serious blogs, but it is after 11pm and I am dead. I have to teach in the morning at 7:50am and need to sleep, but am having late night random thoughts like:
1. I do believe God has a sense of humor - i.e. I hated 7:50's in college and now I am teaching one. I have a kid in the back who sleeps sometimes but I have not had the heart to wake him yet as I keep thinking how I was that guy at one point :)
2. Do American primary and secondary schools not teach kids how to write papers. I am in the process of grading reflection papers right now and it is unreal how many students make simple grammatical mistakes that kill them. Where are the grammar teachers?
3. I love my wife!
4. I absolutely love what I am doing? Can you say that about your job, ministry, life? I sure hope so.
5. I feel so blessed right now. I have a great wife, amazing job, wonderful parents and family...God is good!
6. LSU Tigers are 6 in the nation right now in football and are moving up after their win over Auburn this week.
7. I am headed back in 1 week to my 10 year high school reunion...what! are you kidding! 10 years! I am getting old for sure!
8. We launched a new college service/venue here at CWC called 747 and for the second week since its existence we doubled in size to almost 100...our big kickoff is this week so pray for that if you can.
Well I am off but let me know any randoms you would add here...I promise the next blog will be more focused...

When the Dream Becomes Reality

2006-08-24T14:54:00.000-04:00

We all have these dreams. You have them. I have them. One of mine for years was to teach at my alma mater, Indiana Wesleyan University. Well, I just found out not long ago that this fall, I will be teaching 2 classes of introductory New Testament. After my meeting with the division chair, it began to sink in that finally my dream has become a small reality.
I say small reality because I am simply teaching 2 classes, thus I am considered an "adjunct" faculty member. However, I believe this will be to my benefit since I have never taught on a regular basis before, and I do have a full-time job outside of teaching these 2 classes.
In writing this piece, I have been reflecting on what happens in our lives when our dreams become reality. Are we satisfied? What emotions do we have? Do we feel competent in this new reality?
I know right now I am tremendously excited, but also exceptionally nervous. I am excited because on every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:50am-9:15am and 12:05pm-1:30pm I will have the opportunity to open the New Testament up to freshmen in college who may have never seen the Bible in an in depth way or who may not even be Christians. I am excited because I feel as though I can build on what I liked from previous professors, but also what I did not like from previous professors. I am excited because I get to grow with my students as well. When they are studying the New Testament, I am studying the New Testament! Maybe I can even motivate them so much that some come out of the class with a new faith in Christ or even a call to the ministry.
However, I am also nervous. How will I do with classroom management? Will the students actually learn tons about the New Testament? Will I be too hard? Too easy? I also struggle with insecurity since I am not a Biblical scholar, yet I am a little further along the journey than these students will be, thus I feel as though I can bring something to the table that they will learn and be motivated.
All said, I will never cease to be amazed at how God brings our dreams to reality. My prayer is that we all can write a blog like this one. And may we never cease to dream, or share our dreams with others and with God.

About Time...

2006-06-28T17:18:00.000-04:00

It is about time...that is what I say...I have not posted in almost 2 months, thus making it about time I post. All said, the last few months have been a whirlwind of an experience for my wife and myself. We have gone from employed, to unemployed (which is where we are currently), to soon to be employed again at College Wesleyan Church in Marion, Indiana. There I will be in charge of all collegiate ministries along with a few other duties. I am soooo excited to begin there in August 2006. It will be nice to finally have an answer to what God has been trying to tell myself and Shannon. Essentially I have had to learn what to do when God says No! You see, I resigned my position at Spring Lake Wesleyan as high school pastor to pursue doctorate studies. But when no studies worked out and I was without a job, I began to wonder what God was doing. Finally I learned that He said no to the timing, no necessarily to the career path. I still am quite passionate about returning to academic life one day, but I am realizing it will not be now. It always seems to work this way you know. You map life out in one way, and God maps it out differently. I just preached at the North Michigan District High School Youth Camp and spoke out of Luke 5:1-11. It was there I learned that, as so often happens, that message was for me. You see, these 3 guys thought they would simply be fisherman all their lives. HOwever, Christ had different plans. Funny how that happens...But then that begs the question, "why make plans at all if God is going to just change them last minute?" But maybe that is just part of the journey...either way...I am just glad God provided, and in a way that is quite exciting!

It's Official

2006-05-01T12:37:00.000-04:00

It's official...I am leaving my current job here at Spring Lake Wesleyan Church. Effective June 11th, my tenure here will be over. I will have served here 3 years. Crazy to think that I have been here 3 years as they have simply flown by...However, I was tremendously surprised by what happened yesterday. We announced to the entire church that we (Nate and I both) will be leaving, and in every service, people stood up and clapped and came down and prayed for us. I say surprised because you never really think you have that much of an impact on people until you leave. As a pastor, you rarely hear it from people while you are in the trenches and serving on a daily basis. However, when you leave, it is different. People bring out stories and moments that you had forgotten that had somehow impacted their lives. It is pretty amazing.
On another note, I was tremendously drained physically and emotionally after the morning services. I just wanted to go home and take a nap, and then today I began to think. Is that normal? Whenever people leave a job that they have really invested in and died to, is it normal to be drained and dead after you make the big announcement? Also, I am wondering if it would be wierd to throw a party for myself? I have been contemplating that, and wondering if that would be unethical or not? Any ideas?
In the end, I cannot say enough about this church and its leadership. Anyone who could get a shot at working here, take it! The staff is great and so is the leadership. Great kids as well. And I am learning that is what you miss when you leave a church...the people. Sure, you will miss the crazy games and fun times at camp, etc. But it is the people that connect you to a place and a job. Especially those you never really thought you had an impact on...until they come up to you crying, and you are sitting here going, "Did I really make that much of a difference in their life?"
On to the scary part, I am looking at going back to school to get my doctorate, but have not been accepted anywhere. As a matter of fact, I have been rejected at 3 schools, with 2 yet to let me know my status. Thus, if I do not get in anywhere, who knows what I will be doing in the fall. Anyone know of any good fast food places in need of workers? ha!
Let me know your thoughts and advice...

The Last Word

2006-04-13T14:03:00.000-04:00

Having the last word is usually a pride thing for most people. They always "have to have the last word in edge wise." In my most recent case however, it was a little different. Having the last word was something I would have loved to defer for sure. Instead of the traditional last word, I had to say the last word(s) at a funeral. Granted, I have done several funerals since entering into full time ministry, however none like this. I never personally met the deceased man nor his family. Also, he was in his forties and committed suicide. Ouch! Lastly, he had HIV and was homosexual. So, I began to think and pray. What could I say? What should I say? In the end, I feel as though it totally worked out, and it was a God thing that I presided over the funeral proceedings. I say that because my uncle committed suicide as well. Thus, I could be honest when I told the family, "I know what you are going through."
Here is my question to you. What would you say in this situation? How would you respond? Have you ever been in this situation? What would you say if you had the ultimate responsibility of having the Last Word as God's representative to the family of a man suffering from HIV that committed suicide? What would you say about God's thoughts? Or would you say?

Dare to Be the Dream

2006-03-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

Do you ever dream? No, I mean really dream. If so, what do you dream about? I sat down one night and put to pen some of my dreams regarding my youth ministry and youth ministry in general. Here are the resulting questions that came out of that dream session. What do I want it to be? What is it now? Where should it be going? Am I leading correctly? etc. Then, I began to think...are these dreams that I have actually lining up with my ministry? What would that look like if they did? In order for my dreams to become reality, here are twelve dreams that I would have to dream. And I would not only have to dream them, but also make them become reality. Thus, if my dreams were going to become reality, then I would have to dare to...

1. Keep the Bar High! So often in the ministry, we as pastors do not raise the bar of leadership or even keep it the same. Instead, we lower it a little so as to have bigger numbers or because we do not want to hold people accountable. Kids need leaders, and one’s that are committed.
2. Address Conflict. This is huge. I would say that a huge chunk of my time as a high school pastor is spent here. Whether it is between students and leaders, students and students, or leaders and leaders, pastors must confront! Without confrontation, your ministry will suffer.
3. Preach the Word. 2 Timothy 4:2 says “Preach the word of God.” This begs the question that there is other activities we can engage in besides preaching the Word. However, what students need most from us is not more videos (although great in their own right) or cool skits or games, but God’s Word. That is what the world simply cannot offer them.
4. Encourage (and be encouraged). 1 Thessalonians 5:11 states “So encourage each other and build each other up...” You must encourage your students and leaders! Find ways to do it, i.e. emails, notes, encouragement circles, spoken words, etc. There can be no substitute for this. Conversely, you as a pastor need to receive encouragement from others. Sometimes, we are the worse at receiving gifts, especially encouragement.
5. Network, Network, Network. Find out who the local pastors are in your area and set up a monthly meeting with them. Share ideas and frustrations, as this could and should be a safe place for both to occur. Be Proactive and connect!
6. Seek Higher Education. Both Jesus and Paul were students of the Word before they ever ministered to others. Our middle school pastor, who barely made it through high school and college, has begun his master’s now, and it’s paying off. He is currently running over 350 middle schoolers in a church of 1300. This will also help guard against burnout.
7. Take Time Off. Burnout is a ministerial pandemic in our country. I have heard as high as 1600 ministers a month opt out of the ministry! The sober reality is, when you leave your current post, there is another talent just waiting to replace you. Now, I am not saying be lazy, but force yourself to take your days off and vacations. It will pay huge dividends down the road…and your family will thank me for it.
8. Lead Up (and not just down)! Nate, our middle school pastor, hung out with Bo Boshers last year (student ministries director at Willow Creek Community Church). Bo challenged him to not only lead those under him, but to also lead his senior pastor, executive pastor, etc. when possible. Don’t be scared! Speak up and lead!
9. Practice the Presence of God. I stole this point directly from Brother Laurence’s book title, but it fits my purpose. Frequently, pastor’s are the worst at “smoking what they’re selling.” Without spending regular time in the Word and in prayer, you will not be in the ministry for long! As Pastor Dave Stone, speaking pastor at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, a church of 18,000, stated, “There is a grave danger in substituting activity for personal spiritual development.” Remember, Jesus never ran from town to town.
10. Take Risks. Fail at something! Nothing has built more character and faith in my life than when I had 2 kids sign up for my senior trip. Although there is a fear in continuing to change, you can never stop changing, as change is beneficial if it serves a purpose.
11. Receive constructive criticism. When is the last time you had a student critique your message or a leader share his/her dislikes about the ministry? A Christian leader will be criticized. As pastors, we have to realize that feedback is a gift! I have heard it said, “Maturity is moving from a thin skin and hard heart to a thick skin and a soft heart.” Evaluate criticism and see if there is truth in it, and then move on.
12. Ask for Help! Whether with your ministerial, marital, spiritual, or personal life, assistance is invaluable. However, sadly enough, we often let our pride get in the way and don’t seek help until it’s too late. Use others to sharpen you and your ministry.

So, to all those dreamers out there, keep dreaming. But don't be scared to put in the time and effort to see your dream become reality! Dare to Be the Dream!

Lessons in Losing

2006-03-14T12:11:00.000-05:00

March Madness is here in full swing. I have my bracket already filled out and on my wall in my office. I am pumped! And when I think about college basketball this time of the year, I usually think about the winners. However, this year, I am reflecting more on the losers. I know a big factor in that was my church league basketball team. We just finished the season 2-5, last in the league. Also, I think my recent reflections on losing has a lot to do with not just sports, but also real life losing that I have been exposed to lately. I can count at least 5 persons I am connected with through friends and family members that have died, and not necessarily older individuals. This type of losing is never fun. Thus, in all my reflections, I have found a few lessons in losing.
1. Character - I truly feel that you learn more about people's character when they lose, than when they win. It was amazing for me to see some of my teammates attitudes in our church league games. There was a stark contrast with some of them during the games we lost as opposed to the games we won. I learned who were sore losers and who really owned the loss as opposed to blaming the refs or others. Aside from sports, I have seen true bonds be rekindled and built in my life and the lives of others who have lost loved ones. There have been some really impacting stories come out of these times of loss. Character was built. As an aside here, in winning connected with sports especially, I often find it produces just the character one should not have, i.e. arrogance, pride, etc. We all can point to those sports figures in the public eye here.
2. Connections - As I referred to above, unique bonds or connections are made during times of loss. Friends, cousins, and families of old are reunited and stories are told of yester year that pull everyone together. People often finally get real with each other. They share about their lives and inquire into others lives. In sports, when I lose, I find I have that desire to go again and do better next time, and often with the same guys...just to prove we can win.
3. Encouragement - Never before have I encouraged like I have recently. I encouraged friends and family when they lost someone close to them. I was there for them as much as I could. I, verbally, every minute of the game, would admonish and encourage my teammates, highlighting their positive moments. This one aspect of losing can be invaluable, and often it is not even what you say, but what you do. Just a presence can be more powerful than a spoken word.
4. Reflection - When loss occurs, many become reflective. They look back over their past and see what they have or have not done, and whether or not that is satisfactory. Frequently, I find this can be a positive when positive action results (see number 5 below). Also, if this happens spiritually, it can be a monumentous event. In my limited experience here, I find individuals, when they reflect spiritually in times of loss, either grow and draw closer to Christ, or move further away.
5. Ambition - Especially in a loss, I find that people often work harder than ever before. Now granted, some do quit. However, I know I want to work harder to do better next time. I want to change what did not work to see what will work.
Overall, I have found that there are so many lessons in losing. Winning is great. Don't get me wrong. But it is in the losses, and not my wins, that have built my character, formed new connections and relationships with others, shared encouragement, and even had me reflect and grow in my ambition. I know there are others benefits potentially, but these are ones I have found. Any other ideas?

The guys - wedding pic

2006-02-12T09:47:00.000-05:00

Nothing compares to having strong brothers around you that you feel honored to have stand beside you...the greatest feeling! Invest in these guys as they invest in you...it will pay huge dividends when you need it to...
Paul - thanks for being my best man...you have meant so much to me in my life. Thanks for teaching me how to shoot pool, connect with the lost, have fun, and mentor others. We have made some great memories together that will last a lifetime.
Nate - you easily could have filled in if Paul would have been indisposed. You are the best encourager any man would want...I love ya man for all your leadership and investment and ability to speak truth into my life. And to the best middle school youth pastor in the country! Hands down!
Boyer - Dude we go back way to far...freshman year when we were sweet mates...I miss seeing you around man...even though we are relatively close we need to hang more...U have taught me what it means to be patient, and pursue God in any and all situations...I count it a privilege to be a friend and old roommate of yours...and you still bring me to tears with your singing and guitar playing...thanks for singing in my wedding as well.
Big Purv - What can i say, you made a huge sacrifice to be there on my special day, but you did it...love ya man and it has been amazing to see the changes in your life. At every turn, you allow God to be exactly what He is supposed to be in our lives, a sculptor. I want to be more like you in that way...and to the best baller I know...I have always admired your discipline and work ethic...you will do great things in the ministry.
Landy - You are my big fan dude. I know i can always count on you for your encouragement and input in my life. You are always a phone call away man and thanks for always pursuing me and being there when I need a brother to chat with...I cannot wait to see the woman you end up with....she will be blessed.
Quinn - My new bro-in-law. I am quickly realizing how deep you are man. You think and delve into issues most don't, and for that, I appreciate you....you are also a gifted writer who will one day use that for great things, I am confident of that. Also I can see where you will always be a good friend and I look forward to that.
Crossman - My Nashville brother - Thank you for making the sacrifice to come all the way up here to attend my special day...a huge sacrifice on your part I know. To the most real guy I know...I continually endeavor to be more and more like you in that way...you will and have had a huge impact on so many because of your ability and giftedness to be open and honest...loved ya since the first day I met you in the IWU game room with your proud sis.
Scotty C - My seminary brother - We go back 6 years...craziness...all the way to Trunky T, Chancellor Pope, and your buddy in the cafe that you worked with there! ha! Love ya man and I hate we don't get to see each other more. You are a committed friend that is dependable and follows through on his commitments, which seems simple, but is huge...I appreciate that about you man...

Prayer Time Wedding Pic

2006-02-12T09:43:00.000-05:00

If you are thinking of getting married, I highly recommend this in your ceremony, especially if you want to cry. We had all of our wedding party gather round us and pray for us...made me ball like a baby...

The Kiss

2006-02-07T19:29:00.000-05:00

Ok so I know it is kinda mushy and such but this was my favorite kiss ever...for sure! And definitely my most public! Ah!!! Marriage is so great and I cannot wait until Valentine's Day when I can totally go all out and lavish my wife! Hey, that's what husbands are for, right?

Michael Jackson and the Ministry

2006-02-07T18:33:00.000-05:00

Ok so I know most of you are thinking, "What in the world does Michael J have to do with the ministry?" And you would be legitimate in your skeptism given his recent negative press, however a recent email from one of my students reminded me of the importance of Michael J in the ministry, especially youth ministry.
Giving some background, I have a student in my ministry that gave her heart to God at a retreat in junior high, but in the same weekend at the same church was sexually abused by a youth counselor. Needless to say, she has been distant to God ever since. Then last summer, she went on a road trip with myself and other students. There were 5 total in my car including myself. The trip was 4 hours and in that time I was able to indoctrinate these girls and guys with my favorite music...80s. Thus, the time was filled with plenty of Jefferson Starship, The Outfield, and Michael Jackson. However, the trip was also filled with deep conversation about their struggles with drinking, smoking, and relationships. We are all real, including me, the pastor!
Since then, she has rededicated her life to Christ after much counseling, prayer, and accountability by myself, her friends, and her small group leader.
Fast forwarding to now, I received an email from her today telling me how her teacher played Michael J and 80s music in her class today. Consequently, it reminded her of the impact that I have had on her life. Now, truly, here is the extent of my interaction with her. Road trip, some counseling in my office, prayer, preaching to her and other teens every week at youth, and mostly finding other women to invest in her life. I honestly did not feel as though it was a ton, as I have invested much more in others, especially guys. However, she wrote me sharing how deep of an impact I have had on her life.
As I began to ponder where this first began, it all came back to the road trip and Michael J...Thus, my thoughts are these...
1. How do you capitalize on this more? How can you have more "road trips" in the ministry where deep connection and sharing takes place?
2. It is not the medium, but the message. It doesn't matter what medium you use (for me with this student it was 80s music), but that the message you send is the love of Christ that covers all and saves all.
3. Be real. In my sermons and the car ride, I was as real as I could be about my struggles, etc. in life without crossing any lines. Students appreciate this and it shows you have been there too!
4. Share your life. Allow others into who you are. If you like U2, share that. If you love to watch Seinfeld, talk about it. Whatever you love in life, talk about it...others will remember it.
5. Students are watching. Every thing I do or say, my students watch and see. Even the music I listen to, they remember!
Any thoughts, ideas? Let me know...anything more numbers to add past 5?

Married Life @1 month

2006-01-12T13:07:00.000-05:00

Ok so it has been one month....AHHHH!!! To think I am actually married for one month now. Craziness! So I ask myself...what am I loving and what am I wishing were different....
Here are my thoughts.
Loving Thoughts...
1. Companionship - I always have someone to come home to (that is a girl and not just a roommate - ha). This is huge for me, as I rarely like to be alone anyway.
2. Spiritual Growth - I feel as this has been one of the biggest growth times in my life as a result of marriage. We read and pray every night!
3. Healthier Lifestyle - She cooks healthier than my prior fast food diet and we exert tons of energy everyday with each other, usually at night...haha!!!
Wishing thoughts...
1. Sleep - It has been hard for both of us to sleep at night. We toss and turn, as we had different sleeping preferences (i.e. noise, no noise, etc.) so this has been challenging.
2. Sacrifice - It is not about me anymore. I have to always think with her in mind with everything I do, i.e. spending money, planning trips, etc.
All said, I love it and hear it only gets better...thoughts? Does it only get better? Any ideas on the above points...from you marrieds or singles alike...

Marriage Life

2005-12-14T16:04:00.000-05:00

The time is here! I guess it gets here for most of us, but Saturday, December 17, 2005 is my day. And for some reason, I am quite nervous. I don't know if any of you got nervous before your big day, but I am. Thus, I am writing this to all you married persons out there. Any advice for me? Any words of wisdom in my last few days as a single man? I look up to all of you married guys and gals out there just because you are married and thus are more experts on marriage than me. I think here are my biggest causes of nervousness...
1. The wedding night - an obvious one for someone who has never been there.
2. The idea of entering something so final - Don't get me wrong, I am pumped about it overall. However, for a guy who only had one girlfriend and is 27, ahhhh! (but it really is a good ahhhh)
3. Parents - I really hope my parents will come to love and enjoy her family, and Shannon as well. This has been a little rocky so far.
4. My selfishness - I never realized how selfish I am until now! And now I have to share that with another.
5. Provision - Now I have to provide for others and not just myself anymore. Every decision I make affects more than just me.
And I am sure there are others, but this is what I have for now. Again, don't get me wrong, I am excited about going through with this, but am just nervous. Any other former nervous grooms out there?

Does a Master's Really Matter?

2005-11-13T10:19:00.000-05:00

Ok here we go again. I just finished this post, but then it never posted. Shows how technologically advanced I am not...
So Does a Master's Really Matter? In the ministry, does it really benefit one to have an advanced degree...here are my thoughts. Ultimately, I would say yes...and no.

Yes:
1. Knowledge - I feel as though my knowledge of the Bible, counseling, cultures, etc. has deepened and tremendously grown as a result of seminary.
2. Exposure - I was exposed to so much more in seminary, i.e. different ethnic groups and cultures, different denominations and churches, etc. This ties into number 3 below.
3. Networking - You meet so many more persons while getting your master's. It vastly increases your networking base in the ministry.

No:
1. Money - Not that you are in the ministry for this, but experience is pretty much all that matters here.
2. Promotions - May help in the business world, but not seemingly in the ministerial world, at least in the Wesleyan Church.
3. Vacation - Again experience is determining factor.

In the end, I would fall off the log and say at this point in my life "no" from a pragmatic standpoint. All of my supervisors do not have their masters even and some do not even have a bachelor's in ministry but in some other field. Thus, practically speaking, it seems to me that if you can lead, administrate, and grow your ministry, that is all that matters...what do you think?

First timer

2005-11-02T14:34:00.000-05:00

This is my first blog ever! It is all Nate Kingsbury's fault for getting me into this...Kinda cool though and can't wait to see what happens here. Neat to think you can just post your thoughts on the web like this for others to see and read. Look forward to making this happen.