Fishers Landing Blog

Gresham House Church

2008-03-11T11:30:00.001-07:00

Confusion on where to go...

2007-11-24T19:59:00.001-08:00

I know that there have been a lot of changes recently with the LHC main web site down, the launching of lhcfishers.com, and the campus blog changing hands from blogger to wordpress. Let me quickly run through what is happening and what isn't.

1. Campus website: http://lhcfishers.com Here you'll find the latest information on what's happening at Fisher's Landing. I'll be checking this blog and working with pastor Seth to keep this site updated. We will also post new videos here as well so that you can receive a podcast feed if you wish.

2. Campus blogsite: http://fisherscampus.wordpress.com This is new official blog site for the Fisher's Landing campus. Here you'll find the latest thoughts of pastor Seth and sometimes Washington Man (Fisher's Tech Guy). The blog series 'Where in the Java' will appear here as well. You may also catch The Man Cave video blogs and promos to the right in our "vod:pod" section.

3. Men's ministry blog: http://themancave.wordpress.com Here you'll find all you ever wanted to know about the happenings of the Men's ministry of Living Hope Church; led by pastor Seth. Check the V-Blog page for a quick video intro to the purpose of The Man Cave. We may also bring you live streaming video as part of this blog. The streaming video may also be found on the campus web site under the title "We're LIVE."

4. Fisher's Tech Guy: http://fisherstechguy.wordpress.com For those that are interested, this is my personal blog page where you can find most of the videos I put together for the campus, thoughts on life as a college student, maybe some tech stuff every now and then. You can also find some of my photos that I take of different places within a reasonable drive of Vancouver.

New Campus Blog Site

2007-11-21T00:42:00.001-08:00

OUR BLOG SITE HAS MOVED TO:

www.fisherscampus.wordpress.com

Where in the Java - Episode 8

2007-11-20T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hey all,
We've got the latest in Java searching ready for you now! Dan, good luck with this one, unless you spend a lot of time in the area of this shop, or you've just heard about it.

What is The Man Cave?

2007-11-20T00:48:00.000-08:00

Pastor Seth's Man Cave is introduced in this short clip.

We Are Fishers.

2007-11-19T17:54:00.001-08:00

The Bible speaks to us that “without a vision a people perish,” that said, with vision people thrive, people flourish, people are driven to take on the world. Last night was an incredible time to simply sit back, and recapture a vision for what campuses are all about. Which what we’re about, is simply focusing on what God focused on, which is that one lost neighbor, friend, spouse. Jesus didn’t come with a to-do list of countless things, He had one to-do and one to-do only, and that was to reach the lost, the hurting, the broken (”I’ve come not to call the righteous, but sinners.” –Jesus). And that’s what campuses are about, they’re a vital piece to the vision of reaching and speaking life, hope, and freedom into the lives of countless individuals. They’re communities where the one, isn’t simply another person, but it’s a spouse who finally came home to God after 20 years…it’s a co-worker who decided to finally give God a try, it’s a son or daughter who proclaimed their decision for Christ through baptism, it’s friends who weekly band together to serve for the cause of Christ. Campuses are one body, with one vision, full of stories of that one life-changing moment they came to Christ. “Without a vision a people perish,” that said “without people a vision perishes.” I just want to say how genuinely blessed Holli and I are to serve and minister alongside such amazing friends. Without the efforts, and the sacrifices of the countless volunteers at Fishers, we’d never be where we’re at as a campus. We’d never hear the countless stories of a life-changed because a volunteer who simply took the time to be Jesus to someone…through an encouraging word, through a simple handshake, through an investment in the lives of someones kids, through a creative set, through the love and care they have for each other as a team. Fishers would not be Fishers without you guys! Simply put, we love you guys, and are so thankful to what each of you bring into our lives, through your support, encouragement, your faithfulness. “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is right.” 2 Thess. 3:13

Seasonal Celebration: A Benefit for Local Homeless Youth

2007-11-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

In this season of giving, we have such an opportunity to bless and support the community around. On November 28th, I believe is one of those opportunities, as transitionalyouth.org will be holding a fundrasinig event at Arlene Schnitzer Hall at 7:00p.m, with the proceeds going to help out homeless youth in our area. If your interested in attending tickets can be purchased at TicketMaster. I know that Holli and I would love to connect with you there as well, so if your thinking of attending maybe shoot me an e-mail at sethm@livinghopechurch.com. Hope to see you there!

Local performers Michael Allen Harrison, Patrick Lamb, Aaron Meyer, Julianne Johnson and Chad & Rachel Hamar are donating their time and talent to help us raise funds. This is a concert you don't want to miss!

Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 503-248-4335. Reserved seats are $20 & $25, plus fees. Please get yours today and help us continue to provide housing, outreach and support to local homeless youth.

Preview of the upcoming LHC Fisher's site

2007-11-13T20:22:00.001-08:00

That's right...
We're currently constructing a campus specific website for you! All of our blogs (most likely) will be moving to this site. We'll also have a list of upcoming events and our videos will finally be available as podcasts! We are using Apple QuickTime compression for the videos. If you cant view them please click here and download the latest version of QuickTime - it's free and easy.

To check out the new site, click here!

Guys Night Promo

2007-11-10T16:56:00.001-08:00

Fisher's Is Moving...

2007-11-10T12:37:00.000-08:00

Where in the Java - Episode 7

2007-11-07T12:20:00.000-08:00

Congratulations, Dan! Yes, our last Java location was Cafe Piccolo Paradisio in downtown Camas. This shop also serves Gelato it's sort of like ice cream - but it's not. If you're looking for a good cup of coffee, I'd highly encourage you to check this place out. They serve Cafe Umbria coffee as you saw in the video. It's a coffee roasted in Seattle. I was impressed.

Here's your next challenge!

Good luck!

Where in the Java - Episode 6

2007-11-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, folks, we've officially closed the polls for our last episode of "Where in the Java... ?" Because no body has guessed the correct coffee shop, we may use it in a future episode, so remember those "tight" clues we've sent you, maybe make a couple trips to some new Java joints and see if you can find it! Then next time you'll be ready with the answer. I'll help narrow your searches through the massive quantities of coffee shops around here - we're still North of the river. Good luck!

Hey, I just wanted to let everyone know that I've changed my URL for my blog page to http://fisherstechguy.blogspot.com. Sorry about the change, but you'll understand why soon enough...

Dying to live!

2007-11-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

In Twin Falls, Idaho, a small group gathers for a small breakfast at what is ominously called Death Camp. It's here this group begins to talk about the days jump from 486-foot high Perrine Bridge. Tom Aiello, who heads up this group begins off the morning with what one might perceive to be a kind of pre-game speech..."Expect to get injured. It's going to happen. You can avoid dying, but the only way to be sure is to walk away. You're going to meet great people, share great experiences with them, bond with them and then they die. Expect this to happen." It's at this point one might ask why would those known as base-jumpers...take such a risk? I think one guy might have answered it best..."In facing death, I feel most alive."

Now it's here I have to pause, for like many of you my initial response to such a sport is simply this... are you nuts! I mean come on, jumping from a building, or bridge...crazy! Yet behind the insanity of the sport itself one has to wonder, are they on to something...this idea of facing death to feel if but for a moment alive? Interesting enough their were a lot of people 2,000 years ago that would of thought of 12 men willing to leave it all behind just as crazy. Twelve men who would be led by a similar motto...that in facing death they'd find life. That if they wanted to really know what it is to live, they'd have to be willing to face the death of self. That if they wanted to truly live, they needed to be willing to let go of the need to make life all about them. To truly live they had to be willing to let go of past fears, failures, and shame. To truly live, meant leaving behind the desire for the good-life and diving head first, and without abandoned into a God-life. And today our choice is no different. See everyday I believe we have opportunities to really experience what it is to be alive, moments that only happen when we're willing to face death and make the choice to let go of our desire to stay safe, to stay comfortable...and to dive into the needs of a neighbor who is hurting, to dive into time with our spouse, to dive into helping a stranger in need. It's noteworthy that when Paul speaks of freedom, and what it really is to live he doesn't speak of living for ourselves...but rather living for God, and out of that living for others. "For you have been called to live in freedom--not freedom to satisfy your sinful nature, but freedom to serve one another in love [Gal. 5:13]." Let me ask, are you willing to die to live? Are you willing to let go of whatever it is you've been clinging onto a past, a fear, stuff, yourself...and dive into the leadings and promptings of the Holy Spirit's work in your life. Quit playing it so safe! Quit clinging onto that which God never called you to hold onto! You know Paul says that when we make that jump into freedom, by responding to the needs the Holy Spirit calls us to, listen to what we find...(Gal. 5:22) love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control..."life to the fullest.". Everyday we have a choice to hold onto ourselves, or let go, dive into the God opportunities around us...and discover what it is to truly live life to the fullest!

To read more about the ESPN article on base-jumping go to... http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/eticket/story?page=basejump&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab4pos1

Where in the Java - Episode 5

2007-10-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

OK, since no one has won this week for "Where in the Java" I'm going to leave this one up for another week! Next week we'll be posting new episode. If you haven't guessed this shop by then, we may give you the name and location of this shop. But we may not either, just in case we want to use it in a future episode! Once, again, good luck and may your day be caffeinated!

The Seventh Hole.

2007-10-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

Oh golf, what can I say, between holes 1 & 3, all seems right about the sport. But somewhere around holes 4-6, the game turns at least for me, to a game of frustration. I start to get tired (I know, pretty sad when I’m tired after only 3 holes of golf…hey it is a sport), and so when I get tired like most golfers I begin to lose my focus and patience and begin to hack away at the ball. This leads me on an inevitable journey through the woods to look for another lost golfball. Now it’s here, somewhere between a thorn bush and endless weeds I begin to question why I’m out here? Why do I play golf? When is this thing ever going to end? And just when I want to call it quits and walk off the course comes hole #7. I can’t explain it, but almost everytime around the 7^th hole I get this second wind when it comes to golf. It’s weird but there’s this moment of realization that hits me around then, that no matter how bad or good I’m playing, the simple reality is… I’m playing golf. I could be at an office desk, I could be out having to do some house project…but instead I get to play golf…I get to play a game. I think if many of us were honest, we can see our lives a lot in that round of golf. As for many of us our lives feel stuck at hole #6 or hole #3…that point where we hack away at life through weariness, frustration, and questioning. For many of us we need a 7^th hole, a second wind in life and ministry. So how do we get there how do we tee up with a new vigor, energy, and joy? In a word, I think it happens when we’re willing to step onto the tee box of gratitude and thankfulness. It’s when we can get to that place where we can thank God for the simple blessing of being alive… as we stand looking out on the fairway of His plans and purposes for us. Recently in my life God has been speaking into my heart this simple truth…”My greatest challenge, and your greatest challenge is not what we don’t have in life, it’s a failure to see what we do have in life.” This life is so short, none of us have time to waste it simply hacking away at it…swinging wildly for more stuff, for more money, or for more recognition and approval. See I believe this if we’d start our days with less “to do lists” and few more “what’s been done lists” we’d find ourselves less on hole #4 and 5 and more on hole #7, that place of refreshment, renewal, and refocus. So let me ask you, what has God done in your life, how have you been blessed, and what do you have to be thankful for?

Memories of Justin

2007-10-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the life of Justin Bacon.

When life is boring

2007-10-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in one of those strange reflective moods, but not know what to say? That's where I'm at right now. I've had an average week. Not good. Not bad. Nothing unexpected. It's almost... boring. You know what I'm talking about. Some of you are right there too. It always seems that when we lose that continuing drive to surrender to God that this happens. I know that's where I'm at. How about you? What is it that you need surrender? How do the people in your life need to challenge you, how do they need to push you so you can experience real life again?

Let me try and put this a different way if that's not tugging on your heartstrings. What season would you say is your favorite? Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter? Why? Now look at yourself. What characteristics of yours match your favorite season? For me, I'm a Fall guy. I like the wild unsettledness of the air. I love the trees bursting into color. I like the crisp, cold mornings with frost lightly lying over everything. That also describes how my life is when I let God take control. It's unsettled. It's feeling your heart sing praise. It's truly being alive.

It seems that when we fall into that rut, that boring life, that Satan has won. Our hearts become hardened. We stop listening to God. We stop surrendering. We stop living.

So how about you?
What is it you need to surrender?

God didn't create us to be boring.
He created us to live in Him.

Where in the Java - Episode 4

2007-10-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

That's right folks, we're bringing you the fourth installment of our "Where in the Java" series! This week we're introducing a new host and coffee critic.

Will Work for Starbucks?

2007-10-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

As many of you know one of the great joys of finally moving into a new home is that you have no money! And with no money comes household budget cuts. With budget cuts come the inevitable words I so dread to hear..."Seth, we've got to cut out the Starbucks fund." I know, inhumane you say, but cuts have to be made. Yep, no more hearing that warm greeting "Hey Seth, your usual," no more free samples of various mystery pastries, no more chasing down the New York Times Sports section. Yes, it was a sad but inevitable day. To Holli's credit she did make sure I had plenty of fresh Starbucks coffee in bulk to make at home. Now it's a funny thing about making your own coffee, while it's the same Starbucks coffee they use at my favorite coffee shop, isn't it amazing how it never seems to taste as good. No matter how many different ways I try to make it, no matter whether it's in my favorite travel mug, no matter how many times I filter the water...it's amazing to me how it never seems to be as good as when I get my morning cup at Starbucks. Now stay with me, because I think there is something to this. I mean let's be honest when you go into Starbucks to get your cup 'o' joe, really you get so much more than just coffee don't you? See at home it's just a cup of coffee but at Starbucks...it's a way of life, it's a mood, it's an experience. All of this got me thinking, I wonder if faith can be like that? A faith that when kept to ourselves, when lived out in the realm of myself does little more than help us to simply get by. But isn't it true that when our faith is lived out with others, lived out in a community of friends and believers that know us by name, our faith...like Starbucks...becomes so much more. It's in community that we find the faith that God has in each of us. It's in community we find the faith and courage to move on in life. It's in community we find our faith strengthened and stretched. One verse in particular that speaks of how community can stretch and strenghten our faith is James 5:16 "Confess your sins to another...that you may be healed." Now just a little side note when it comes to this word "confession," I think we tend to do this more than we think. See too often we hear that word confess and we think of it in such formal terms, something that is done simply within the context of church. Reality is, confessing one to another is just as likely to happen in a conversation with a good friend over coffee than in a pew on Sunday. That's what happened to me this past week, I was having coffee with a friend and without even realizing it started confessing and sharing some junk in relation to my attitude in recent days. And it's amazing to me that as I shared, and as I listened to my friends encouragement, I began to find healing. I saw some areas in my life I needed to surrender to God, mostly that of my tendency to wait for someday and miss the opportunity of today. Here's the point of all this, I could be content to live out my faith in the small box of myself and simply get by, or I can choose to get more out of my faith by living it out in the context of community. What will you choose?

" If we love each other God lives in us, and his love has been brought to full expression through us." -1 John 4:12

Wake Up Fisher's Landing - Promo 2

2007-10-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are inching ever closer to our new blog format, "Wake Up Fisher's Landing!" Seth and Erik will be your hosts with occasional guest appearances and all new segments. Be on the lookout when we change over for our revamped "Were in the Java..." segment.

Where in the Java - Episode 3

2007-09-28T20:18:00.000-07:00

Join Seth and Erik for another episode of "Where in the Java?" This week Erik is on vacation so Shane is filling in. Remember, if you guess the correct cafe, then you get a StarBucks card!

Wake Up Fisher's Landing!

2007-09-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Coming later this fall, a new video blog series for you. Wake Up Fisher's Landing!

The Sheep

2007-09-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's our pre-service video, live on the blog. Now you can come and watch Seth's sheep-tipping adventure whenever you'd like as well as share it with your friends!

Where In the Java - Episode 2

2007-09-22T01:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those of you who commented on the last "Where in the Java..." blog. Congrats to the "finders" of the last mystery coffee shop. For those of you who may have missed it, we were at the Albina Press in Portland. This week we're actually in Fisher's Landing, check it out!

One Bad Hair Day.

2007-09-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Oops. Call it a mid-life crisis, or a failed attempt to make it on a "Just for Men" commercial. What happened you ask? Well last night I got the inspiration, if you want to call it that, to have my wife lighten my hair a few shades (key phrase there...a few). So last night my wife went to work, putting on this layer of bleach to my hair. Now to my wifes credit about five minutes into this process she recommended that I probably rinse it off, yet destined to be the next Val Kilmer I chose to press on. 30 minutes later amidst the strange looks of my wife, I finally rinsed this stuff off, to reveal a head full of almost white hair. In a word...horrific...so much so, my wife and I hopped in the car around midnight and sped off to the nearest Albertsons for hair coloring. Now to give you a glimpse into how light my hair got, it's important to note that the picture you see above is after the hair coloring. I share this with you for a couple of reasons, one to hopefully give you a laugh in your day, two to share with you what I learned. And what I learned is this, is that bleach is some pretty powerful stuff, and if left on your hair too long it can drain the color and life right out of it. I know, pretty deep. thought...huh? But really, I think there is something to be gained from the reality of bleach. See everyday many of us sometimes by choice, sometimes by necessity, allow bleach into our lives... something that literally drains the color and vibrancy, and life out of us...maybe it's a job, maybe it's a neglected relationship, maybe it's an addiction or routine in life. Simply put, all of us can think of something that's a bleach in our life. And yet while we can't avoid encountering bleaches each day, we can choose how long we allow those bleaches to linger in our lives . I have to be honest, recently I haven't done a very good job rinsing off when I've gotten home from the bleach of life, especially the bleach of worry. In fact, I'd have to say that worry is probably the bleach I struggle with most. Too often I get home and rather than rinsing off from the day by taking time to rest in Him and rest in His blessings (My wife, friends, family, etc.), I allow the bleach to linger. I worry about about things that are beyond my control, I worry about others, I worry about our mortgage and bills, I worry about what people will think about my orange/ blonde hair. That said, here's what I'm learning, while none of us can avoid the bleach of life, we can make a choice to rinse it off when it begins to drain rather than enhance our lives. Perhaps that's why when Jesus encountered a Samaritan woman by a well, bleached out of the joy and fulfillment she was created for He in so many words called her to rinse, by stopping long enough to rest in the "living water" of Him. How about you? How are you doing when it comes to the bleach of life, and are you about due for a rinse?

Where in the Java are Seth and Erik?

2007-09-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Check out our new vlog series! We are now encouraging (OK bribing) you to comment. If you know where our featured coffee shop is, let us know! Watch our vlog for more information.

"Best Life Group of 2007" Award Winners.

2007-09-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Once again we want to congratulate all of the Life Groups who participated in the 2007 Seth & Holli Life Group Road Tour. I can't tell you enough how encouraging it was to see so many people choosing to do life together within a Life group at Fishers Landing. I also want to appreciate the Life group of Brent & Bonnie P. / Mike & Christy P. one more time, as they walked away with the title "Best Life Group of 2007" last Sunday!

The blooper reel none of you have been waiting for...

2007-09-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

No, really. You haven't been waiting for this, because up until now, the vlogs have been bloopers! Only recently have we been semi-scripting the material that you have come to know and love in our astounding video-blogs.

The Wind Storm of 07

2007-09-09T21:19:00.001-07:00

Now, we all know by now what Pastor Seth's luck with various campus functions is. The BBQ, the Tailgate Party, campus picnics, and now, breakfast. For the first half of the video, we will be sharing with you some of the dramatic stories of those who survived the windstorm of '07 that hit the Wy'East Campus. Halfway through the blog we decided to switch gears and discuss the theology of the intimate hug with Gordon Avery as your host.

Diceros Bicornis Trophy - Interviews with the staff

2007-09-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what our staff thinks about this wonderful trophy? Find out with cameo appearances by our very own Gene Joner, host of the Living Real Raido Program, our financial team, Hyper Static Union's Sean Lewis, and our worship leader Dustin.

This video is about 10 minutes long.

Live Love.

2007-09-06T16:59:00.000-07:00

“Let love be your highest goal.” 1 Cor. 14:1
To understand what this means for us, we need to understand what it meant for God. I shared last Sunday in my message that the moment I really knew Holli (my wife) was the one was on our first date. Decked out in my very best, the truck freshly washed, and a little Lionel Ritchie playing on the radio…I was feeling good. A feeling that lasted for about 2.5 seconds, which was about the time it took for me to put it in reverse only to be stopped by a loud crashing sound. Looking into Holli’s face it took me even less time to realize what I had hit…Holli’s Brand-New Chevrolet Cavalier. Now Holli at this point had every right to curse and scream, to jump out of the truck and tell me she never wanted to see me again. Instead, Holli chose to to “make love her highest goal,” by showing grace, by showing mercy, by showing love when I was at my worst. In fact isn’t that when love is measured the most, it’s not when others are at their best but when others are at their worst. When God wanted to reveal the fullness of His love for us He could’ve waited for when we were at our best, His word to us could’ve been “When we finally got our acts together then Christ Jesus died for us.” Instead God chose to reveal the measure of His love for us while we were at our worst, or as the Bible puts it “while we were still sinners Christ Jesus died for us.” A single act that would change the course of your destiny and mine. I wonder how many of our relationships, marriages, friendships would change course, if in the coming days we really committed to let love be our highest goal? If when people were at their worst we responded by reflecting the best of God’s giftings…love. What type of lasting impact might we make in the life of the discontent waiter, neighbor, friend if we responded with generosity and encouragement? How would our marriage be different if we put as much energy in expressing love as the first word in our conversations as we do in making sure to get the last word in? What would our relationship with our kids be like if they heard those words “I love you” not simply when their at their best but especially when their at their worst?

Take the Fishers Campus Video Tour.

2007-09-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

Check out what it's like to be a part of a campus...

Building a Fence

2007-08-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend it was brought to my attention by Diane that Seth and Holli won't have a fence for their yard when they move into their new place this September. Well, here, watch the video...

The cost for the materials is about $3000.

The Ark Pre Service Video - The Arctic

2007-08-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here's the pre-service video of our very own Noah on the ark in the arctic from this past weekend...

Be The Smaller Person.

2007-08-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

It's only in giving what you got, that you discover what you have. Recently, I was reading the story of the Road to Emmaus in Luke 24. In this story two followers of Christ are reminiscing about the good ol' days of what Jesus had done in their lives when a stranger began to journey with them. Not recognizing who this person was they went on to share the stories, and share their lives, inviting the man into their home and sharing with him what they had. It was at this point they came to see that the stranger was no stranger at all, but Jesus in the flesh. See through serving, they discovered the God they once knew, and felt so close too, had never left, but was as close as ever. Last night, I got to enjoy one of those Emmaus moments as I went out with Martin again to the juvenile detention center. I got to be honest, I was really tired, not very motivated, and was thinking of a million things I could be doing for myself instead of spending my whole evening there....I know even pastors can be selfish jerks. Yet as the night progressed, as I took the time to listen and share with a couple of strangers in the juvenile center...God managed to show up, or should I say I finally noticed the God who had always been there. It's funny as tired as I was, when I left , like the two men in Emmaus I felt my heart burning...impassioned and renewed like never before at the sight of God's working and reality again. See I think one of the big misconceptions in life is that when God feels distant to us, we tend to believe that He has left on vacation, or somehow skipped town on us without letting us know. But the reality is that in my life and your life God is as close, and near to us, as the day our eyes we're first opened to the reality of His grace and love. But it takes us noticing and responding to those taps on the shoulder to serve, those opportunities to turn from ourselves and see the God whose right there with us. Over the next couple of weeks you're going to have opportunities come your way to serve, to volunteer maybe at a campus, at a shelter, maybe simply to a neighbor. Can I encourage you to respond...can I encourage you to not ignore His tap...can I encourage you to give what you got and rediscover what you have.

Issues with videos

2007-08-22T16:10:00.000-07:00

I've had a couple of emails and comments from Pastor Seth about the video blogs on this page not working. To the best of my knowledge, the once the videos are uploaded they are processed into flash video, so the first step is to make sure that you have the latest version of macromedia's Flash Player. If that doesn't solve your problem try the following proceedures below.

For PC (Windows)

1. Under the Tools tab in the menu bar select Internet Options

2. Go to the Security Tab and near the bottom of the window is the Security level zone. Click on either Default level (should work just fine) or click on custom level and scroll down until you see the heading "Script ActiveX controls..." make sure that the "Run ActiveX controls and plugins" is enabled and the "Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting" is enabled

For PCs, a medium-high security level will work just fine and should support blogger videos.

For Mac OS:

1. Go to the browser tab in the menu bar (Safari, Firefox, Internet Explorer) and select preferences (for more advanced users, holding down command and comma will take you to the same window)

2. Select the content tab and click enable JavaScript and enable Java.

This is the only issue I could think of for why the videos wouldn't work for some of you. If this still doesn't work, try contacting blogger help/support. They should be able to assist you through the process of setting up the browser to support embedded video. Hope everything works out for you and that you can enjoy the wonders of the video blogs.

I'm also posting a poll on internet connection speeds on my own blog site, Wy'East Tech Guy.

Until next time,
Josh

LifeGroup Leaders and the trophy

2007-08-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today we're interviewing people from different lifegroups about what it would mean to win the Diceros Bicornis Trophy.

Seth & Holli's Life Group Road Tour: Brent & Bonnie's

2007-08-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

It was great getting to revisit Brent & Bonnie's Life Group. I like to say that their sort of the Life Group that inspired the Road Tour. It's hard to explain but everytime I visit that group there is just a sincerity and love for one another that always shines through. On the night I visited they were working through a video lesson which was really good, as it showed in great detail the biblical roots of our nation. After that they took time to discuss the video and then just share in each others lives. Simply put, you guys are always a highlight in the Road Tour, as my wife and I leave encouraged everytime we go. Thanks for letting us be apart of the group again.

The Diceros Bicornis Trophy Promo

2007-08-14T23:14:00.000-07:00

As you all know, Seth and Holli have been touring the Fisher's Landing LifeGroups this summer with an award (see title) going to the best LifeGroup of '07. Well, here it is...

White Water Rafting Trip

2007-08-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

As you all know, our first campus whitewater rafting trip took place this morning. It was chilly until the sun made its way over the ridges surrounding the Clackamas River. The company we went through provided us with two great guides. For those who like adventure, you missed out. Here's a short video from the end of our trip...

A Modern-Day Noah

2007-08-11T01:39:00.002-07:00

What would it take to be Noah? Come with us as we explore this question, with Erik Anderson as Noah. Make sure to come to service early the next couple of weeks and watch our Noah as he explores the Zoo.

The Adventures of Seth & Holli's Life Group Road Tour #4

2007-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have to say that the Bernhardt Life Group is without a doubt the most memorable group to date. I don't even know where to begin, so I'll give you the Cliff Notes version: It all began with a buzzer that went off every 30 seconds to let each member know when their time of holding the sacred wristband was up, a time of confession that included a ladies struggles to shave both legs in the summer, Dennis in full Native American apparal handing me feathers as a symbol of honor, a rough rendition of "Kumbaiya", and to wrap up the night a request to baptize one's cat. Now before you get as concerned about the sanity of this Life Group as I was, it's important to note it was all a set-up. And I have to say that Candid Camera could not have done a better job...I totally bought it, as they pulled one of the great con jobs of all-time. I was still trying to figure out the purpose of the mystery wristband before I realized how good they got me. Anyway it really was a blast, and for all the laughter and good times...there was no question that this was a group that epitamized doing life together. As one didn't have to be in the room long to know how much they genuinely cared for, prayed for, and just really loved one another through the good and bad of life. You guys have an amazing group, with two leaders...Butch & Roberta who I respect and appreciate so much...may you guys never tire of doing what you do...you're an example to us all.

P.S- Thank you for letting me share in the taste experience of a "doughboy'' -- and truly it is an experience.

The Making of the Ark

2007-08-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

Join Seth today as he interviews Josh Dickens, the Director and Producer of the Wy'East Video blogs, about the recent filming of the Ark video loop used at our campus as a pre-service loop.

To Be A Classic.

2007-08-03T15:12:00.000-07:00

There he stood for the last time with the love of his life. What do you say in a moment like that? As the propellers from the nearby plane revved up, Humphrey Bogart peered into her eyes and said the words that would go into Classic movie history… ”Here’s looking at you kid.” Until last week when I went to watch Casablanca, I had forgotten the beauty of classic movies. The effort that went into the sets, the splendor of black & white film, the epic feel of the stories, sights, and sounds. More importantly I think what I miss most about the Classics was their ability to finish well. Whether it’s Rhett Butler being reunited with Scarlett in Gone with the Wind... John Wayne fighting for the honor of his wife in the Quiet Man... Rocky coming back after 8 rounds of getting the pulp beat out of him (Hey, I think Rocky can be considered a classic). See classics, regardless of the story, seemed to always understand that the ending was everything, it was the ending that would ultimately define what one thinks or didn’t think of the movie. I share this with you because I think when it comes to the story of our time at Wy’East Middle School, we’re at that defining, “Here’s looking at you kid” moment as a campus. As many of you know we’re close to finalizing a deal for a permanent location off of Chaklov, a location we hope to be in by late September. I can’t tell you how excited I am about the new location, as I have no doubt that God will use it to literally change lives of thousands for eternity. That said, I’m also excited about these remaining months at Wy’East as well. See I believe that the story of our time at Wy’East will be defined in these next two months, it will be defined by how we choose to finish at this location. Will we sit back and simply wait for the story to end at Wy’East? Or will we look back at our time at Wy’East and beable to say what a classic…by risking with a fresh abandonment, by serving as if there is no tomorrow, by investing and inviting others as if it were the last time we might see them. God brought us to Wy’East Middle School for a such a time as this…and what will define the story of our time there will be how we each choose to finish. You know what was cool about Casablanca, was that up until that point Humphrey Bogart had thought only of what was best for him…and yet when the defining moment came at the end of the movie, he chose, if but for a moment, to step beyond himself…and let go of what he cherished most for the benefit of the world around. What is it that’s keeping you from living a life that could be considered a classic? What is it that you find yourself holding onto, and know it’s time to let go of that the story may be complete…time…comfort…attitude?
Anyway… “Here’s looking at you Wy’East,” as a chapter in the life of our campus begins to come to a close and new one prepares to begin.

"Do you think the work of harvesting will not begin until the summer ends four months from now? Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life."
(John 4:35-36)

2007-07-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today we're visiting the home of Tim, one of the Wy'East Church Family, in Gresham, OR.

The First Annual Campus Tailgate Party Video Blog

2007-07-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

Wy'East Movie Night: Casablanca

2007-07-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

Going the Second Mile.

2007-07-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

"If you are ordered to court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat too. If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles." -Matthew 5:40-41

Last weekend we wrapped up the last of the Living Hope Mens Retreats, which I have to say went really well...as this last retreat we had close to 70 guys coming together to commit to let God be the fuel of their life. On the first night we had Jon Anderson speak (Hockinson Campus Pastor), about the need to go the second mile with people. And it was one statement in particular that really stuck to me and it was simply this "the first mile we do in our strength, the second mile is done only in God's strength." I love that, and when you think about it how true that is...everyday we encounter points where we have a choice to go the second mile with others...to go beyond our comfort zones...to go beyond what we feel we can't...to get beyond pain and hurt. Choices that only happen when we first commit to daily step beyond ourselves and step into the grace, mercy, and call of God. See in seizing the opportunities that come our way everyday to get beyond ourself, in essence we're seizing opportunities for God to work. Opportunites that are often found in the most unlikely of places... the obnoxious co-worker that rubs you the wrong way...the guy who cuts you off in traffic...your spouse who says something insensitive...the neighbor who asks you why you go to church. Last night I got off the phone with a friend from our campus that seized an opportunity to go the second mile with someone and in the process seized an opportunity to see God's reality and work of grace like never before. Hanging out on Sunday with his brother at a local Tatoo parlor...a conversation started in regards to Living Hope, as the guy doing their tatoo mentioned that he had done a lot of tatoo's for Living Hopers. Well, this guy across the room overhears the conversation and starts asking questions...so Sam & Aaron start talking to the guy inviting him to the Sunday Evening service. The guy comes, makes a commitment to ask Jesus into his life, and that night gets baptized...talk about "only God." See by making a choice to go the "second mile," they made a choice to get beyond themselves...beyond their comfort and fears... and in the process they stepped into an "only God" moment. So what are some of the second mile opportunities around you today?

Life Group Road Tour #3

2007-07-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

I have to say Holli and I really enjoyed getting to just hang out with Melissa’s Life Group. It seems like every group we visit we hear a story of how God has revolutionized and changed their lives. Simply put, it’s so encouraging just getting to sit and listen, and be reminded of the amazing reality of God’s love and grace. I really appreciated the honesty in which Melissa’s Life Group shared about the topic of greed…not always an easy topic to talk about. So it was refreshing to hear a group just talk honestly about what they struggle to let go of, and in the process finding myself challenged to face some of my own issues of greed. So thank you for letting us just come and hang out, you made us both feel so welcome…I also have to say I will never be able to look at dead skin the same way again (you just had to be there). Anyway, love you guys…and just keep doing what your doing…God’s working in it! Also want to thank Melissa for simply being Melissa, you’re such an encouragement to Holli and I. Your attitude in life, even when life doesn‘t go your way…is an example to all of us, it certainly is to me!

What do you like best about Living Hope?

2007-07-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

We're interviewing you!

Wy'East Pre-Service Video Blog!

2007-07-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

Join us as we interview some of our volunteers at the Wy'East Campus in Video Blog 4.

Thanks Martin and Exodus Ministries!

2007-07-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

First off I just want to thank Martin for letting me go out with Exodus Ministries last night. If you've never heard of Exodus, it's a ministry that heads into the juvenile detension center of Clark County...and encourages, minister, and mentors these kids. So last night I had the privilege to head out there with Martin and several others including Dan Dickau (NBA player), as Dan spoke on having a dream, peservering in the pursuit of that dream, and leaning on God to provide the strength and vision to accomplish that dream. Anyway it was so neat seeing these kids, who'd had a few wrong turns and bad breaks in life, hear of a God who loves them, and believes in them, and still has amazing plans for them. Simply put, I think I was more blessed getting to be a part of it than the kids themselves...so thanks again Martin, as well as the whole Exodues team. If you would like information on how to get involved with Exodus, simply e-mail me for more information at sethm@livinghopechurch.com.
(By the way, my apologies to the Mens Breakfast Group this morning, unfortunately I wasn't able to recover from the late night before to get there...I'm sure it was a great time nonetheless.)

Pointless Ramblings of Seth, Dustin, and Josh

2007-07-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

Join us today as we celebrate our third video blog ever by introducing Dustin Evans, also with Josh Dickens, the campus tech guy. For a sneak peak into the Adventures of Washington Man mentioned in the last segment, visit Josh's blog - http://wyeasttechguy.blogspot.com where the unofficial introduction to Washington Man is posted.

Life Group Road Tour Stop #2

2007-07-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

The Seth & Holli Road Tour is in high gear now as we checked out the Brownlee Life Group last Wednesday. First off, have to say they may have one of the best Life Group settings around, as I was about ready to move in at the sight of their leather easy loungers. The group itself was an amazing time, as you could tell everyone genuinely cared for one another as they shared stories, shared laughs, and shared struggles. There was just a real sense of authenticity in the group that I so appreciated. I also enjoyed their lead off question which was…”If you could do one thing before you died what would it be?” My answer was to visit every Starbucks in existence, okay…not really, for me it would be visiting the Holy Land. Thanks to Gene & Darlene I’m now a believer in the beauty of potato salad again. And of course, Jim & Diane, what can I say you guys are awesome! May you never tire doing what you do, when I think of how many Life Groups you’ve helped to start and the people you’ve just simply loved on and encouraged…I’m awed by it all.

Next Tour Stop: Engler Life Group

Youth Garage Sale

2007-07-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

First Campus Pastor Video Blog Ever!

2007-07-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Opportunity of Today.

2007-07-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

"He (Jesus) had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar...Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, 'Please give me a drink.' He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food." (John 4:4-8)

Couple things of note: To go through Samaria back in that day, was considered a trip through the bad part of town, the ghetto area, or traveling through Texas as an Oklahoman (Sorry, my Sooner roots are coming out a little bit.). Some Israelites were so hesitant about the area of Samaria they would purposely travel an extra days journey to go around Samaria all together when traveling to Jerusalem. Simply put, to Israelites Samaria was certainly not a place to stop and hang around for any significant amount of time, it was just a necessary evil in getting to where they needed to go. That said, this is one of the things that makes Jesus' decision to stop and actually talk with this Samaritan woman so amazing. Here Jesus wants to stop and rest, the disciples on the other hand are looking for the nearest Dairy Queen so they can get back on the road as quick as possible. And it's in this simple decision to stop and notice, that Jesus saw an opportunity. A lone Samaritan woman, who was just going through life's routine. A lone conversation that progressed from surface conversation about water, to where she was at in her faith, to where she was at in life, to the very answer in life. Here's the point, Jesus knew that some of the best opportunities in our lives are right in front of us, not way down the road. It's the opportunity of changing someones life, by taking the time to ask your neighbor how he's doing, taking time to pray for another, taking some extra time with your family or kids. I sometimes wonder how our lives would change, how my life would change, if I learned to open my eyes to the opportunities of today...not next year, or next week. How would my life be different if I quit waiting until I was at a better job, or a better place in life, and just lived with a sense of expectancy and purpose each day of my life? God didn't create this day, no matter how tough it may seem, to simply get through and survive until you get to something better. But there is purpose in this day, there are opportunities this day, there are Samaritan conversations waiting to happen this day. The story of the Samaritan woman is the story of a God who saw purpose in today, and in that saw an opportunity to change a life forever. Listen to what Jesus says to the disciples when they return from the local fast food joint to the place they so wanted to just get through...

"Do you think the work of harvesting will not begin until the summer ends four months from now? Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest. The harvesters are paid good wages, and the fruit they harvest is people brought to eternal life." (John 4:35-36)

Seth & Holli's Summer Life Group Road Tour Update #1

2007-07-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

Don't know if I could've had a better start to the Summer Life Group Road Tour than Josh's Thursday Night Mens Group. Meeting at the local Brewed Awakenings in Fishers, an automatic plus 15 points on the scorecard on their quest to be voted the Best Life Group of '07 Award. It's a small group, and yet they were incredibly welcoming and very real and honest with one another. Recently they felt led to start going through the Book of Revelations, and I have to say I thought it was pretty cool how they took a book very heavy in theology and imagery, and yet as they talked it over made it incredibly practical. Anyway, thank you guys for letting me check out your group, you've certainly set the bar high for the rest of the Seth & Holli Road Tour stops.
For more information on this Life Group or others at the Fishers Landing Campus, please contact Seth McRae at sethm@livinghopechurch.com.

NEXT TOUR STOP: The Brownlee's Wednesday Night Group

The Beauty of Risk.

2007-07-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

So how was your fourth? My wife and I got to enjoy the pyrotechnic performance of the Andersons, as we sat and watched them light up the night sky in an array of ever-changing color and smoke. I don’t know what it is about Americans but we love our fireworks. It’s said that Americans typically spend 420 million dollars a year on fireworks…that’s a lot of fireworks. And so there I sat, joining millions of other Americans who sat eyes fixed upon the glow of the skies above. Which got me thinking… I wonder if when Jesus called us to be a light in the world, if He really meant for us to be a G-201 Black Cat Artillery Shell in the world…in other words an explosion of grace and mercy in a darkened world. See as I watched the night sky light up I wondered what the draw was, why do people come from all around to see a fireworks show... and in that, one word kept coming to mind…risk.

The risk of danger. There’s risk, there’s a sense of danger to lighting fireworks, I discovered that risk last night as we had to duck more than a few times to avoid injury. See I believe those around us long to see believers who will risk, who will take a chance in their jobs, take a chance to go for their dreams, take a chance to actually step out and lean on the faith we so readily talk about. And isn’t that really what faith is all about, Hebrews 11 is an amazing chapter of faith fleshed out in a group of God-followers who didn’t just light up the world around but lived lives that were explosive. See these were a people who never settled for the path of least resistance, or the path that seemed most rational, or most safe. They took a risk, even if it led them to face danger. They took a risk even if the explosion of grace and faith was seen only by a few. They risked the ordinary to do something extraordinary in life.

There’s a risk of waking up the neighbors. When you start to take a risk for the kingdom, start to take a step that requires faith…in your marriage, in your job, in your family…it will wake up the neighbors. People will call you crazy, people will wonder why you’re investing so much to simply light up the night sky. When Jesus came into the world not everyone was excited about the explosion of grace and mercy He brought with Him. It woke up a religious establishment that had become content just going through the motions of religion… It woke up those who thought they had it all figured out…it woke up those who would rather shut out the needs and concerns of the world around them and even the reality of the God above them. Simply put, if Jesus woke up the neighbors, you can be assured that as you walk in His footsteps you’ll set off a few too.

This summer I want to risk…I’m going to risk to invite a friend to church, I’m going to risk to do something that involves the danger of failure, I’m going to risk some of my time and convenience to help others in need. And yes, I’ll probably wake up the neighbors, and probably get burned a few times in the process, and yet at the end of the day…I will live a life of faith that draws the attention of an unbelieving world. I will live a life that resonates with the beauty and afterglow of God’s incredible mercy and grace.
I will live a life worth remembering. How about you, what is God calling you to risk and risk for in life?

Summer Road Tour Update: I'm excited as tonight I kick off the first stop on the "Seth & Holli Life Group Road Tour" in our search for the Best Life Group of 2007. That said Josh, I'm hoping for a little bribery, free cup of coffee or something.

"I Survived the Fishers BBQ of '07"

2007-06-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

I just want to thank everyone who braved the elements to come out to last weekends Campus BBQ. That was some serious hurricane force wind and rain on Sunday, I'm thinking about printing up some "I survived the Fishers Campus BBQ 2007" T-Shirts. Anyway I want to give a special not of thanks to Tony & Daniel who kept the BBQ flames going amidst natures fury. Also want to thank Tina for doing a great job with the face-painting and leading the kids in games. Want to appreciate Andrea for facilitating a great event, your awesome Andrea! Finally I want to thank Elizabeth and all the volunteers who helped to make this past BBQ a memorable experience for all. Looking forward to next months...hopefully the weather will be more cooperative next time around.

I love you guys, and am so thankful to be apart of such an amazing campus...it doesn't seem to matter the challenge or difficulty...it rarely seems to dampen your spirits or attitude, you always seem to take it all in stride...and I'm so thankful for that. You know the move to Wy'East has provided some unique challenges for our campus over recent months...and while I look forward to the prospect of a future permanent site, I wouldn't trade these days at Wy'East for anything...because it's in the challenges that I've gotten to see just what an amazing heart this campus has, I've gotten to see just what an amazing bunch of volunteers and friends I serve alongside with every week. I've gotten to see a God who is so very faithful! May we always praise God even for the challenges in life...because He allows them into our lives, as individuals, as a church...not bring out the worst in us...but to bring out the best! If Gideon never faced the Midianites we would've never seen a warrior. If David never faced Goliath we would've never seen a king. If Jesus never faced the cross we would've never seen our Savior. Simply put, you guys are amazing...thank you for stepping up to the challenge week in and week out...as I'm so excited for what God's been doing at our campus and what He's going to do in the months to come!

5 Hours Later...

2007-06-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated Fathers Day to our dads out there. Last Monday I got to spend some time with my dad just relaxing at their house, enjoying the Beavers game (Not normally a Beavers fan, but I'll say it anyway go Beavs!). It was great just slowing down...talking about questionable calls, eating the greasiest burger I've ever had, and just chilling with my dad. I remember someone just asking me how one can sit there on the couch for 5 hours watching baseball? When you think about it they have a pretty valid question... let's be honest baseball is not always the most exciting sport in the world to watch on t.v. And to sit there for 5 hours...I mean hey, there's a lot that can be done in 5 hours. In 5 hours I could've read through a book, in 5 hours I could've driven to Portland and back to my parents place on the coast, in 5 hours I could've answered all my e-mails and voicemails for the week, in 5 hours I could've written a mini novel for a blog, in 5 hours I could've solved world hunger (okay, not really...but you get the point.). 5 hours, or 300 minutes, or 18,000 seconds is a lot of time on the couch. And can I tell you it was one of the best 5 hour investments I've ever made.

One might ask why I share this with you...I share this with you because my goal, and hopefully your goal as well, is to just slow down a little bit this summer. To slow down long enough to enjoy the view of what God's doing in your life. To slow down long enough to take time to just hang out with a good friend or loved one. To slow down long enough to make the greatest investment in life, which is simply investing in others. Our goal this summer as a campus is to emphasize community...and community doesn't happen in a microwave...it's a process that takes time, it takes people slowing down long enough in the rush of life to just invest time in others. One of the great marks of the early church was it's contagious nature, a contagious nature partially fueled by a contagious community...a community that placed value on slowing down, taking time to see how others are doing, taking time to just chill with one another. "And all the believers met together...they worshipped together...they ate together...all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved." (Acts 2:43-47)

Fishers Campus Community Events:
Campus BBQ - June 24th @ 1:00p.m
Campus Outdoor Movie & Fellowship - July 20th @ 8:30p.m (Subject to change)
Campus BBQ - August 26th @ 1:00p.m

Fuel.

2007-05-31T08:41:00.000-07:00

The definition of fuel is: anything that creates power or energy when fire is set to it.

There it goes...$38.00 down the tank of my "Amigo"(friend), which is not living up to it's name at the moment. I'll say this though, if there's been one benefit to the recent increase in gas prices, it's been a new appreciation of the value of fuel in our lives. And not just the fuel we put in our cars, but those things that fuel us, that keep us going in life. As I look over my life I can pick out several things that helped to keep me going: My wife...She's always pushed me forward when I wanted to take a step back in life and quit. Fear...Just being real, reality is I have a huge fear of failure that often drives me, hey, I never said that all the fuel in our lives is the best fuel for us. Hope...that sense that God is working in the midst of my life, the good and the bad, to do something bigger than I could ever imagine or expect. That's just a few of things that fuel my life, especially when the temperature at work, in ministry, in life is turned up. So what is it for you? What are some things in your life that God works through to keep you going?

A Few SideDishes:

Guys don't forget...the Fishers Landing Mens Retreat is coming up June 8 & 9th at Canby Grove Retreat Center. The cost is $85.00, and it's sure to be great time just to relax, get away, and get recharged as we hear from various men about the fuel in their lives. You can sign-up at the Welcome Center at the Wy'East Campus or contact me at sethm@lvinghopechurch.com.

Speaking of fuel, I thought I'd conduct a very unscientific poll as to what fuels us most through the day. Here are the options you have to choose from:

1) Coffee
2) Chocolate
3) Energy Drink
4) Water
5) Excercise

The Future of Transportation...A Canoe?

2007-05-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

Here I was enjoying a relaxing mini-vacation in Sunriver, when my wife kicked out with the c-word...no, not cooking or cleaning, worse...canoeing. Now, I don't really know why I'm not much of a fan, oh wait, now I remember...mosquitoes, sunburns, and a sore back. Oh, and yes, the pace... there is a reason we all don't travel by canoe...we'd still be in the Stone Age. Let's be honest in a world of cellphones, Blackberrys, and e-mail...canoes just don't seem to fit in. In fact, to be away from all of lifes technologies, and trapped in a canoe it felt like I was missing so much. And yet as I drifted down a river at the blurring speed of 1 mph I came to discover that just the opposite was true. As I watched the grass blow in the afternoon breeze, as I gazed at a hovering falcon, as I joked with my wife...I came to see all that I had been missing in my world of high-speed internet, and wi-fi connections. By the way, it was at that moment that I also came to see the solution to our world's oil crisis. Hear me out...maybe the answer to the crisis is not something to be discovered tomorrow through investing in Ethanol, or more public transportation, but the answer is in this relic of the past. You laugh...I know...and yes it is a crazy thought...but really, maybe the world would be a little better off if we learned to canoe through life a little more rather than rush through it. Learning to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Taking time to breath, to talk, to laugh with others. Slowing down enough to notice the blessings, and work of God around you. So what do you think? "National Association to Bring Back Canoes" has a catchy ring to it, don't you think?.

A Few Other Reflections From The Canoe...

Fishers Campus...While the recent changes have created for some of the most hectic weeks of my life, it's been also some of the most rewarding. There's no question that God is doing an amazing work at this new campus location, and with the added service. The campus has grown by about a 100 people in the past two months, and has been over 400 in attendance over the past several weeks, two weeks ago we had a boy visit Kidsworld for the first time and commit his life to the Lord...how awesome is that! And as God continues to stretch our campus, it seems to just enlarge my respect, appreciation, and love for the group of friends and ministers I get to serve alongside each week...thank you guys!!!

My Wife...This time away has been great... if nothing less than to take a step back, and be reminded of what an amazing woman I've been married to for the past 8 years. Sometimes in the life and rush of ministry, too often I take her support, her words of encouragement, and joyful spirit for granted. And as I take a step back, I find myself turning around only to see the arms of a wife whose been pushing me forward all these years, when I've wanted to quit, when I've wanted give up, or when I doubted it could be done.

God...It's been so great just taking time to stare at the "complex simplicites" of God...to stare into the stars He created, the mountains He formed, the air He breathed into existence. I don't take enough time in my life just enjoy the realities of God.

A Few Firsts.

2007-05-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

A week of firsts...

1) We had our first service at Wy'east Middle School.
2) We had our first services at 9 & 11a.m.
3) I watched as a local cat had her first litter of kittens in my car this morning (I know I can't believe it myself, not sure if I'll ever beable to look at my car in the same way)
4) I experienced the first week of the weather being warm enough to kick out with the shorts.

Firsts are interesting...firsts speak of newness, of anticipation, of a road ahead. Firsts are exciting...they're at the same time awkward, unfamiliar, and sometimes even a little overwhelming. The new Wy'East location, and new service is a first for our campus. And while exciting and new it can also feel a little awkward and uncomfortable...because it takes us to a place we've never been, and in that stretches us beyond what we know, and through that brings us to a place of having to trust, and lean on others and God like never before. I'm excited to see what God is going to do through this new location in Cascade Park, knowing that it's only when we're willing to risk, to take some big first steps that we make room for God's big finish. It was so neat to hear of two girls who were simply riding their bikes by the school, and when they saw the signs, and the excitement of what was going on at Wy'East...visited Kidsworld for the first time, and in taking a first step of their own opened room in their hearts for God to do a work in their lives.

God Messed Up My Sunday...Only to Make My Day!

2007-05-02T11:23:00.000-07:00

My Sunday Morning was going great until God stepped in. I was looking forward to celebrating our final service at the theater until God stepped in. I was ready to make the highlight of my morning a stop off at Starbucks for a Grande Coffee until God stepped in. I was content to just go through the motions until God stepped in. See God messed up my Sunday, and yet made my day. To be honest the last thing I felt prepared to do was preach a message last Sunday, and yet with the projector blowing up, and the sound system going haywire...that's exactly what it came down to. And it's a weird thing preaching, they always say a preacher often speaks about what he needs to hear most in his own life. I know that was true for me last Sunday...as I don't think I realized just how much I needed to hear and see of God's strength being made perfect in our weakness...until then. And that's exactly what happened for me...I saw God show up even in the absence of a projector... I saw God show up in the grace given me from everyones kindness and encouragement as I spoke...I saw God show up in doing a work in the lives of so many in spite of the fraility of the words spoken. Thank you Jesus...for messing up my Sunday, and making my day...by reminding once again of just how true your words and promises are for our lives.

Do you have a time or story to share of when God messed up your schedule or your plans, only to make your day?

Pr 16:9 In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

Friends.

2007-04-24T13:01:00.000-07:00

Holli and I visited Brent & Bonnie's Life Group last Sunday. I have to tell you as I sat and fellowshipped with them, I kept thinking...this right here is what the church is all about. I listened to them discuss John's message from earlier in the day, sharing their struggles, their worries, their tears. I watched them each share pictures of brokenness in their lives, and as one picture of life after another was shared...one couldn't help but see the mosaic of God's love, grace, and mercy at work in their lives. Their weren't many quick fixes offered that night, but what was offered was so much more...a group of friends willing to face life's valleys.... together. Thank you guys...for just being a group who gets it, for giving me a glimpse of just how beautiful the church can be when it's functioning in the way it was created to be.

Also while I didn't get a chance to talk about it last Sunday...I really need everyone to help me in getting the word out about our campus move to Wy'East Middle School on May 6th. This move will also entail Serivce Time changes as we will be meeting at 9:00 a.m & 11:00 a.m.
If you have any questions regarding the move please e-mail them to me at sethm@livinghopechurch.com.

What Do You Say to One Who Grieves?

2007-04-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

Ro 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

Yesterday like many of you, I sat in horror watching and hearing of the shootings at Virginia Tech. I kept thinking of the grief of those parents who lost a son or a daughter. I kept thinking of what one could say or do that would ease the pain of their grief. And yet the reality is, the more I thought of their pain the more I was left speechless. See the one thing I'm coming to understand is that there are no magic words, or sentiments that can take away the pain of one in grief. It's interesting that when Jesus came upon His friends who were grieving over the loss of Lazarus, Jesus didn't give some trite words like it'll be ok, or you'll get past this..it says that "Jesus wept." See I think some times we try too much to reason out what is unreasonable...and death is always unreasonable...it always is unfair...it's always unnatural because we were formed for life. That said maybe the most healing thing we can do for those who grieve, for those bearing the pain of loss at Virginia Tech, is found not in what we say, but in what we don't say and rather do. As maybe the most healing thing we can do, is to take a moment in the busyness of our days to stop, to be silent, and to stand with them in prayer...that the God of all comfort, would begin to bring healing to their hearts in a way that only He can do. Today, will you take a moment to stop, to be silent, and to stand in prayer for our friends on the otherside of the country?

Posted by Seth

A Living Stone.

2007-04-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

Recently, I shared in a post how were called to never forget those "only God" moments in our life, which certainly Easter at the Rose Garden was one of those moments. I also shared how one of the best ways to never forget is to collect not piles of stagnate stones (like Joshua & the Israelites did) but rather piles of living stones, or living stories to help us to never forget. This is one of those living stone stories...

Dear Seth and John,

I wanted to take a few minutes this morning to tell you the story that God has written in the life of my dear Sister. This is the miracle of how God tugged on the heart of one Woman, one Wife, one Mother, and how it would ripple out to touch the lives of her Husband and children. In the end it would result in the surrender of all of their lives to God.

I have been a Christ follower for over 20 years. I began praying for my sister, whom I love very much, to find Christ all those years ago. I have watched with such sadness as she has been through so much heartache over the course of the last two decades. I have watched the immense struggles in her life and the lives of her family. She has been so lost like the rest of us, until God found and rescued her. Recently Cindy and her Husband had come to a real point of crisis in their lives. I knew that she felt very defeated and exhausted in every way. So I invited her to come with me for a weekend at the beach for rest and a reprieve from the chaos that was her life. This was in reality the Living Hope Women's Retreat. Cindy and I spent time over the phone talking about her crazy experiences that had been her life for so long. In deep grief and pain, she expressed her need for something good and real in her life. I explained to her that what was missing was God. I told her how much I had been praying for her, and that I was convinced that God had a miracle planned for her. Indeed it was just around the corner. She agreed to go to the retreat. While at the beach, during one of our group discussions, Cindy asked the question: "I don't understand, What does a relationship with Christ look like?," the leader of our life group took us back to our hotel room where she explained about Christ's life, death and resurrection. Cindy was at this point in tears. And she said "God has been tugging on my heart for so long, I didn't understand what to do next, and now I am ready to surrender and give myself to him. The three of us bowed our heads while Cindy and our group leader prayed the prayer of Salvation. With deep heart felt words Cindy gave her life to Christ. God had provided my long awaited answer to prayers for Cindy. This was Cindy's miracle. Tears of amazing gratitude and joy filled those moments and the remainder of our weekend. She went to the beach to find peace, and God showed up to give her the peace that surpasses understanding.

One week later it was Easter at the Rose Garden. I of course invited Cindy to go. She in turn invited her Husband and children. She told them she would be going with or without them. Her husband and three of the children (ages 21, 20 & 16) agreed to come.

After hearing John speak, Cindy's entire family stood up and began making the trek down the stairs to the Baptism pools. I, was in complete shock as followed along behind. When we reached the floor by the pools, we all began to sob and cry and hug. It was the most moving and emotional time of my Christian experience. The five of them were Baptized together simultaneously. When they all came up from the water, the shouts of joy were enormous. The five of them huddled together crying in absolute relief and joy over what God had just done in their lives. The long and difficult story of their lives had just turned a pivotal page, and the new chapter had just begun. God has rescued them!!!!

Everyone has a story. However, the journey that their lives have taken is quite extraordinary. Their testimonies will inspire everyone who will ever have the privilege of hearing it.

John Bishop, I thank God for you. For your thinking outside of the traditional box. For Your radical vision for reaching lost people for Christ. If my Sister Cindy and Her family were the only people who found Christ that Easter Day, it would have made it all worth while. I will never forget this Easter; I will never forget the Garden. Thank You Father God for the 41st Day.

Your Sister in Christ,

Tina

Living Stones.

2007-04-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Night as tired as I was I didn't want to sleep, I kept replaying the baptisms, the songs, and the sights in my head. See their was a part of me that didn't want it to end, and more importantly doesn't ever want to forget what happened on this past Easter. I mean to think that over 14,000 people flooded the Rose Garden, with 700 of them taking the step of baptism, and countless thousands encountering the reality of the God who loved them enough to die for them! It's interesting how in the Old Testament when the people wanted to remember what God had done they would often set up a pile of stones, so everytime they'd walk by it they would remember. This past weekend God brought us piles of living stones to help us to never forget! See within the mass of numbers are the individual stories of new life, it was the son who was baptized by his father, it was the brother who finally found out that healing starts at the heart, it was the mother who finally surrendered her heart to Christ. Truly "only God" could do what He did this past weekend. Let me ask what is your story...who became a living stone in your life?

"And now God is building you, as living stones, into his spiritual temple." --1 Pet. 2:5

Posted by Seth

The Song of Our Lives.

2007-04-03T17:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my wife and I went to see "Amazing Grace." It was really a great movie on the life of Wilberforce and the abolishionist movement. It was interesting how the hymn "Amazing Grace," literally became the song that would define an entire movement. And I was amazed at how a simple song had the unique ability to give us insight not just into the mind of a generation of people, but into the heart of a generation. A simple song that added rhythm to a movement. With that in mind, it got me thinking, what song would best define my life…or your life for that matter? What songs rhythm speaks to the movement of your life?

After cycling through a variety of Bette Midler songs (just kidding), pausing on some of my favorites from Neil Diamond, to U2, to the Police… here is my final four:

#4 The theme song for the movie the "Quiet Man" (The best John Wayne Movie ever), and while I don’t know the name of the song…I love the tune…it’s catchy, you can’t get it out of your mind. I could come up with some deeper meaning to it, but really I just like the tune.

#3 Would have to be the song "Oklahoma." Oklahoma in it’s essence is a song of hope…hope for better days and a better world.

#2 Keith Greens the "Prodigal Son." While a very seventies sounding song, not typically my type of music, I love the song because it’s the retelling of the Prodigal Story, and in essence tells the story of my life and really all of our lives. A story that speaks of a Father who never gave up searching, hoping and loving his wayward son.

#1 For me I’d have to settle on Men at Works song "I Come From a Land Down Under" (Don’t remember the actual title – but if you heard it you know it). I don’t know why I like it, except for the fact that when I hear it, it speaks of adventure to me and it tells a story. See at the heart of my life, this song reflects my desire to live a life of adventure, to live a life for God in such a way that it would be worth telling when I’m gone.

So what song best defines your life?

Eph 5:19 "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord…"

Posted by Seth

MORE THAN ONE CAN HANDLE

2007-03-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

There is one thing I’ve come to count on from God, and that is that He will always give us more than we can handle. Recently I’ve found myself thinking back on the two years I spent in Arizona pastoring a church. I remember going down there and how eager, and confident I was that my wife and I could go down there and instantly turn around a small struggling church. I lived on the idea, for a while anyway, that God will never give us more than I can handle (which was really just another way of me being able to say “I can handle it“). Two years later, after an overwhelming schedule, a church culture I couldn’t change, and failure staring me in the face, the one thing I came to discover is that I can’t always handle it….and that there is a God who often gives us more than we can handle. Now while in one breath this reality of God is often frustrating to me, recently God’s been showing me, little by little, that when embraced it can come to be the most freeing reality for our lives. As my time in Arizona fades into memories, I’m still amazed to think of how God took a smalI congregation and through one obstacle after another made a way for us to merge them with a healthy congregation in the area. I’m amazed to think of how blessed my wife and I are to be able to now serve alongside, week in and week out, such an incredible group of ministers, artists, and friends. See God gives us more than we can handle so that we would get to that place of surrender…that place of dependence…that place of faith not in our might, but in the Almighty. What seems to be overwhelming you? Could it be that God has allowed it into this season of your life, not to crush you, but rather to chase you into His grip, His grace, His strength. What thing in your life do you need to let go of, and let God do a work that only He can do?

Seth

"FIVE PEOPLE WHO WON'T BE THERE, BUT YOU WISH THEY WERE"

2007-03-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, Albertsons workers are preparing to put in countless late hours to prepare, season, and fry the 300 pieces of chicken we will soon need -- for the annual tradition we refer to simply as the "Fishers Landing Potluck." Yes, it is an event like none other, an event that you surely will not want to miss...this Sunday, at high noon, at the Firstenburg Activity Center (Sorry for the shameless event plug). Which along with some inspiration from a recent T-mobile campaign - got me asking this question..."Who are 5 people you know who won't be at the potluck, but you wish they were?"

For me it would be...

Sylvester Stallone: Come on, one of the great modern actors of our generation. Tell me how does he not get an Oscar when I think of the emotion and tears he brought out in all of us as we watched him take down Ivan Drago in Rocky 4...and the speech that I believe led to fall of Communism "If I(z) can change, and you(z) can change...we all(z) can change (something like that)." Which by the way I have to give my wife props, let's just say you know you married well, when your wife is willing to go and watch Rocky 6 with you...even when your the only two people in the theater..."Yo Holli."

Leonard Sweet: While I can comprehend only about a sixth of all that he writes (if you've ever read Sweets books you know what I mean), the fraction I do understand is really amazing. Leonard Sweet has always been a guy who seems to beable to see years in advance when it comes to the condition and trends of the church and culture itself.

The President: Wherever your at politically...we're still talking about the President of the United States, who doesn't want to beable to say they just hung out with him at the potluck.

Shawn McDonald: By far one of my favorite Christian artists. Talk about great potluck entertainment. Just a side note, I like to point out that in a weird way I'm connected to Shawn... as I am a friend, to a friend, to a friend of Shawns...needless to say Shawn and I go way back.

My Grandmother: She passed away about a year ago in Austin, and it was a privilege to beable to perform the funeral service for her. That said, I just miss her, and would love to beable to talk to her some more, to hear if even one more time the stories of my Dad growing up in Ghoulson, Texas. She's an amazing lady, who I look forward to seeing again someday!

So whose "your five?"

Post Valentines

2007-02-15T09:36:00.000-08:00

I took Kathy to Beaches restaurant last night and we arrived at 5:40pm. They said that we could get a table in an hour and a half. Yes, that's 90 minutes. No thanks. We went down to Joes Crab shack and had shrimp. The lesson is, check to see if they take reservations before you just show up on Valentines day. Lesson learned.

Rick

Valentines

2007-02-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

Well, I am going to take my wife Kathy to Beaches tonight for Valentines. What do you think are my chances of getting in? I don't have any reservations. What are you doing tonight

Rick

San Diego

2007-02-09T10:50:00.000-08:00

This last week I was in San Diego at a conference learning about "multi-siting". I know it sounds very exciting but that was only part of the reason for going. It was a chance to take the campus pastors along with some key leaders away so the we could get to know each other better. I don't know about you but when you get people away from the normal office stuff, you find out a little more about who they are. You see who the early arisers and the late nighters are. You get to see what kind of food that people like or dislike. You even get to see what kind of drivers they are. One person that shall remain nameless likes to watch cartoons in the evening.
My getting to know each other began with my 3 roommates. That's right 4 to a room. It seems that everytime I go on a trip I have no less than 2 others in my room. I am beginning to wonder, "what is God trying to teach me?" Well, trying to rally everyone up so that we can leave by 8:00am is not an easy task especially for the ones that like to stay up late and watch cartoons. Remember there are 4 men that have to take a shower, shave, eat and gather their belongings. We also had 15 of us that went together, so it wasn't just our room, if you know what I mean. We had 3 vehicles and none of us knew the area that we were in. It made for some exciting times.
We met Pastor John and Michelle at the conference on Monday and had dinner with them and another church group from Chicago. We found that there are many like minded churches across this country.
That's when I was reminded of why Living Hope has experienced such growth and success. It is because of the people. Each one of the staff that went on this trip are very special. They all have such great hearts and willingness to do whatever it takes. The other thing that has been a strength is community. Not just doing what needs to be done but doing it together as a team. Life is so much more enjoyable when we do it with others. We went down to the waterfront in San Diego and spent hours just walking and talking with each other. That is what God wants us to do, share our lives with others. It opens up such opportunities. We find out what brings joy to someone, we find out what struggles they are facing and we find out how we can pray or help them. I want to share one story with you. We decided to take a dinner cruise as a group on Tuesday night. The weather was beautiful, the food was good and we had the whole lower deck to ourselves. As the evening went on our waiter told us that his manager was going to find out if she had cancer the next day. He asked us if we could pray for her. So we asked him if she could come down to our table and she did. Several of our group were able to pray for her. Her name is Christy. I can't even imagine what was going through her mind. Many times the enemy tries to tell us that nobody cares. I was glad that God gave us an opportunity to show her that someone does. No one should have to go through something like that alone.
There are a lot of lonely people. God has made us to do life together. Ask yourself, how are you doing in this area?

Pastor Rick

Interruptions

2007-02-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but I have difficulty with interruptions. Have you ever noticed how many distractions and interruptions that each of us go through? Well this week actually Wednesday I received a call from Pastor John and he said that he needed a favor. I said, "what do you need?" He said, "I need you to do the message this coming weekend." There was a long pause on my end. Then I said, "You mean this coming weekend, like in 3 days?" Oh ya! Now that is an interruption from my normal week. So I started thinking about it. What if I were to share a message about "Diving Interruptions?" You know, the times where something happens that you didn't expect and it dramatically changes your coarse. I know that we all have them. So why do these things happen? And where is God in all of that? Well, stay tuned for this weekends message because you will see the rest of this story.
I would love to hear about your divine interruptions. If you have a chance, reply to my blog.
Until next time

Pastor Rick

Searching

2007-01-25T16:35:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week I was out looking for a new location for the Fishers Landing campus. Well, I should say that I am always looking for that right location but this week we actually had a possible building to walk through. It was very exciting. The building looked good and has great potential to house our growing family. I don't know about you but when I start walking through a vacant building, my mind starts running. We could put the auditorium over here, the nursery would be great here and kidsworld would be perfect over here. I start to invision every seat full and people inviting their friends and neighbors each week. I see people giving their hearts to Christ and getting baptized. I see community getting formed and friendships blooming. I see a light shining into the dark places that need Jesus. What do you see?
Without a vision, the people perish. God has given us this time to reach this city for Him. Are you ready?
Keep praying. This might be the place or .... ?

Until next time
Pastor Rick

Coffee?

2007-01-19T09:07:00.000-08:00

Have you read any good books lately? I love to read a good book but it wasn't always like that. When I was in younger and in school I never enjoyed reading. I just did it because I had to. I would say that over the last 4 years my love for reading has really grown. So, from time to time on this blog I am going to hi-lite a book that I am reading. Most are books centered around our faith and on Christ but some are books that are just good. The one book that I am reading and want to tell you about today is associated with the name "Starbucks". Now when you hear the name "Starbucks" what do you think of? Of coarse, coffee! The book that I just started is called the Starbucks Experience. It speaks of changing ordinary to extraordinary. Before Starbucks came into the visual scene, coffee was just a normal hot liquid that you would put into a white styrofoam cup. Today if you go into a Starbucks it is anything but normal or ordinary. You probably know all the terms like Frappuccino, venti, barista and so forth and I don't even drink coffee. My wife Kathy on the other hand loves Starbucks. If she starts her day with a grande cup of Starbucks it is going to be a great day. I won't tell you all about the book because I want you to check it out for yourself. Secondly I just started the book myself, but here is one thought from the book. Starbucks says that they are driven by a powerful passion for product, people, experience and community. I just wonder, are we driven with that kind of passion because of Christ? Not for coffee but for reaching people? Jesus was anything but ordinary.

Pastor Rick

Let it Snow!

2007-01-11T14:11:00.000-08:00

What is your response at the mention of snow? Why do I ask? Well, when I was a kid I dreamed about snow, I prayed about snow, I looked for the day that I would see those white little flakes float down from heaven. When I went home last night my 12 year old son Jacob was out playing with a neighbor friend in the snow. He could hardly wait for my truck to come to a stop before telling me, "do you see it?, do you see it?" How could I not see it, it was everywhere. His face was shining like the morning sun. He was so excited to say that it finally snowed. I have to admit now that I am older I don't have the same thoughts as I once did. Now, I have thoughts of I hope it doesn't snow, I hope it doesn't last long, I hope it warms up. What has changed? I think that there is something wrong with me. I just can't seem to enjoy the snow like I once did.
Then I began to think. Pastor John just talked about how complex our lives become. He talked about Jesus being so simple. It is true? Maybe my life has become too busy and complex. When we were children, life was so simple. Wasn't it a lot easier back then? So, when is the last time you built a snowman, or built a fort, or engaged in a good snowball fight? It has been a while for me. If there is any of that white stuff left when I get home tonight, I am going to throw a few of those cold white balls at someone. So watch out.
Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all of your soul. And love your neighbor as yourself. That is simple. But, simple isn't easy, is it?

Pastor Rick

Change?

2007-01-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

Do you ever ask yourself, what will change this coming year? Well, we know that gas prices will change, the stock market will change, and our age will change. These things are all a certainty. But, I am thinking about the things that matter. Are we going to love more in 2007? Are we going to give more? Are we going to have more faith? Are we going to care more? These are the questions that will define each of us. I know that I want to grow more in each of these areas but how is it going to happen? For me, it will take an extra effort to slow down and let the Holy Spirit speak to me. I know that this sounds so cliche, but I just can't hear him when I am in control and to be honest with you, I like to be in control. The only problem with me being in control is that my life is miserable. I can never rest in that peace that each of us needs so badly. I hope that you will consider this new year as it begins and ask yourself, what will change for my life? I will make a deal with you. I will pray for you if you will pray for me. Prayer is what really can change us.
Let's make 2007 the best year for change, ever.

Pastor Rick

Prison, is it a good place to be?

2006-11-22T16:02:00.000-08:00

Last night I was spoke at Living Free. It was the last part of the series "Prison Break". When I was preparing for the message I was reminded how so many of us are in prison. We may not be in a physical prison but we are in a prison because of addiction, abuse, bitterness, unforgiveness or some other kind of pain. But here's the interesting thing about being in prison, we learn to like it. It becomes what we know and we become comfortable with it. I had a man named J.C. share his story. He shared how he started smoking pot at the age of 4 then it led into cocaine and heroine by age 10. He was in and out of prison for 15 years. As we were talking before the service in my office he said that he liked being in prison. I was shocked and asked him, why? He said that when he was in prison he didn't have to worry about anything. They told him when to get up, when to eat, when to work and when to go to bed. Everything was provided for him. When he would get out of prison his life was hard. He had to figure out where he was going to get money, where he would sleep and what he would do each day. He didn't know any different so he committed another crime to get back in. The only way out of this world was when he saw in his wife a love that he had never seen or experienced before. It was because of her unconditional love that he was set free not just physically but spiritually. He is a different man! Listen to this verse in Galatians chapter 5, it says, "For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love." How has love changed your life? How can you change someone elses life through love? Does love make a difference?
If you find yourself in prison, please let me know. I would love to help you.

Have a great Thanksgiving
Pastor Rick

Ted Haggard

2006-11-04T18:14:00.000-08:00

On Thursday night I was checking my e-mails and when I opened up the web-page I noticed the name Ted Haggard. I began to read the article and my heart began to drop. Ted Haggard is the pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs. They are a church of 14,000 members. He is also the president of the National Association of Evangelicals which consists of 60 denominations and 30 million people. I was in New Life Church in March of this year attending a conference. When I first heard Ted I was bit taken back but the more that I listened I heard a man that loved God and was very smart and articulate with his words. Since that time I have heard him on 60 minutes, talking with President Bush and speaking at a conference that we aired at Living Hope. Each time he challanged me and yet encouraged me. He was a leader that God was using to impact many many lives. Well, getting back to the article, there in black print were allegations against this man. They said that he had a relationship with another man and on top of that he purchased drugs. I thought, no way. This can't be right. Then on Friday he stepped aside as the President of the N.A.E. and pastor of New Life while being investigated. How does it make you feel? It is very easy to attack and judge Pastor Ted. I know many christians that do that very thing but is that what Christ would want us to do? I'll tell you how it makes me feel. I feel sad for his wife and five children, I feel sad for his fellow pastors and staff and I feel sad for the people at New Life. How do you think that God feels? I am sure that his heart is very saddened. It reminds me of what Peter wrote, "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8) I don't know about you but it sure makes me think about my life. All of us are succeptible. All of us have weaknesses and satan knows what those are. What are you doing to protect your self? How much do you think about the spiritual battle that we are in? Satan can never take away our salvation but he can destroy our testimony. What can we do to prevent this kind of attack? I have one word that can help us all, and that is pray! How is your prayer life. How much time do you talk to the one that has the power to defeat the enemies tactics?
Let me know what you think?

Until next time
Pastor Rick

Prison Break

2006-10-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

This week we start a new series titled "Prison Break." I know it sounds just like the T.V. show but this prisonbreak is different. We are not talking about a physical prison but a spiritual or emotional prison. I meet with people regularly that are struggling with depression, addictions, abuse, religion or financial and relational pain. These are the struggles that most of us relate to. Sure the real prisons are surrounded by concrete and steel but the emotional and spiritual prisons are far worse. The people that are chained up in these prisons look normal on the outside but deep within they are in such bondage that life becomes hopeless. Many don't even realize that they are in this kind of prison. Jesus said that he came to set the captives free. What is freedom to you? We live in a country with more freedoms that anywhere in the world, but do you feel free? Over the next 6 weeks, we will look at what it means to be set free. I hope that you make it a priority to hear each talk and even invite a friend or family member to hear this important series. Remember, "the truth will set you free." (John 8:32)

I hope to see you this weekend at Regal's Cascade Cinemas

Pastor Rick

2006-10-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

This morning I sit in my office dreaming about what God has for me and Living Hope. From last September 2005 to this September 2006 we have grown by 1900 people. I met with Geoff Surratt a pastor from Seacoast church in South Carolina and he told me that there are no systems that can handle that kind of growth. He said that once you come up with a system that will work you will have outgrown it. What is God doing? Some people criticize us for not doing things the way that they think we need to be doing them. I just say, oh well. Isn't it really about reaching people for Christ and loving God. God is doing something at Living Hope that I have never seen or experienced anywhere. We just need to keep depending on him and then let him work and not get in his way. It isn't about us, it's all about him. So, what is God's dream for us? What is God's dream for you? At the Fisher landing campus we have a great opportunity in front of us. There are thousands of people that do not know Christ. Thousands more that have been hurt by churches. How can we reach those people? How can we be the Jesus to those that need him? My answer is love. People will never care about how much we know until they know how much we care. Are you loving your neighbor? Are you inviting them to church? Take a risk and see what God does.

Talk to you soon

Pastor Rick

Honor

2006-09-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Today I experienced something that I have never been a part of before, the memorial service for master sargeant Robb Needham. When I arrived at the Brush Prairie campus there were already police officers, military men and women and the fire department present. Over the next hour and a half the campus was a buzz with people flooding in from all over the region. At one point as I walked out into the parking lot the fire truck with it's ladder was extended flying our American flag. At that point I reflected back to the Sept. 11 tradegy and the silence that we all felt. This was a different day. It was a time to remember a man that had given himself for the cause of freedom. A man that defined the word sacrifice. There was close to 1000 people present to honor a hero. During the service I heard his family share about the man that they called brother and daddy. Then one of his closest friends and fellow military officers shared with tears running down his face the loss that he had felt. He also shared about the character of a man that not only talked about love but invested his life in loving others.
In times like these we all wonder when our time is up, who will be present to remember us? Does our life matter? Are we doing anything that will make a difference? I believe that Jesus gave us the answer, he said, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to give his life as a ransom for many." (Matthew 20:28)

Rick

Balance

2006-09-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel tired? Do ever wish that you had more energy? I know that I do. During the last couple of days I attended a Leadership conference at our Brush Prairie campus and learned some things that may help us. One of the speakers asked everyone, "What would you say is the most important resource that we have?" There were all kinds of thoughts but the one that came to the surface was time. I think that we would all agree that time is the most important resource that we have. But then he said those magical words, your wrong. Well, no he didn't say those exact words but I felt like he said them. He said that energy is the most important resource that we have and need. He also said that we can all have time but if we don't have the energy, it will be difficult for us to accomplish what we need and we will be less effective. It really made me think. All of us have the same amount of time in each day but all of us don't have the same energy. Our energy level will determine what we are able to accomplish in a given day. So, here is the question for each of us to answer, What are we doing to replenish our bodies so that we can have the energy to be and do what we need? Are you eating right? Are you excercising? Are you getting enough rest? Are you doing activities that refresh you? In 1 Corinthians chapter 6 verse 20 it says, "So you must honor God with your body."
All of us need to take care of these bodies that God has given us. We need to carve out some time each day. Then we will feel better and also honor God. I know personally that when I spend some time excercising and eating well, I feel much better. I am going to work on that area. What do you think?
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Until next time
Rick

Living in the Fast Lane

2006-09-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

This week has went by so fast. I don't know if it's just me or what but the days and weeks are getting faster and faster. That is why I decided to sit down and write this blog. I thought, what have I done this past week that was a special blessing from God. Sometimes it just takes me slowing down to reflect on God's goodness. I think that one of the best things that I was able to be a part of was a dinner this past Wednesday. My wife Kathy and I were invited with a few other couples to go to a home in the north area (Ridgefield/LaCenter) and enjoy a dinner. Now this was no ordinary dinner. It was a 9 course meal that was cooked and prepared by a Chef. I didn't know what to expect but that was the exciting part. I ate things that I said that I would never put into my mouth. One of those things was raw fish on top of watermelon. Who comes up with these ideas? I know that it sounds terrible but the truth is, it wasn't bad. I also had a barbequed jumbo prawn that looked like it just landed from outer space. The main dish came and I must tell you that it was excellent. He prepared fresh king salmon, mashed potatoes with crab and wax beans. After that course there were only 4 courses left and I was full. I didn't want to be ungrateful so I went ahead and ate all the deserts that they placed in front of me.
Have you ever had the opportunity to eat one of these meals? It was great and I was very blessed to be a part of it. It only took us 3 hours from start to finish but it also gave me the opportunity to enjoy what I was eating and the company that was around me.
Sometimes it takes slowing down to really appreciate the many blessing that God has for us. That is the lesson that I was shown. How about you?
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"Be still and know that he is God" Psalm 46:10

Until next time
Rick

2006-09-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

What a week it has been. After speaking at the Brush Prairie campus, I took my wife Kathy and 2 of my kids down to Seaside. The beach is always a great place to relax and reflect. The big difference is the weather. When we got within 10 miles, we saw the cloud cover. The entire time that we were there the temperature never raised above 65 degrees and it was grey. I was wondering how many people like this climate? How many people would like to live there? For me, I think that it is a great place to visit but I would never want to live there. What do you prefer?
On another note, we have or should I say George has been working very hard on acquiring a building for our campus. We just received word today that they have given (our) space to a current tennant. But not to worry. They are building phase 2 as we speak and they are pouring the foundation on Monday. For me, it is a dissappointment but not for God. Just as I talked about last weekend, we need to trust God with 100 percent. I am talking to myself. God has something better and I need to trust him. He knows are situation and he knows our need, so all I can do is either worry or trust. Today I choose to trust. How about you?
Until next time

Rick

2006-08-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
It has been an adventure this last week. We have come accross a possible site for our campus. It is on Mill Plain Blvd. around 172 ave. George Gomez, Erik Smith and myself looked at the building on Tuesday and it looks great. The location is perfect and we found out that there is a Amphitheater across the street that can only be used by tenants. So why don't we just do it? Well, there is always more to the story. There are a couple of reasons, the first is the developers didn't want a church on Mill Plain. The second is, there are 2 other churches that want to rent from the center. The good news is that they don't want the building that we are looking at. The bad news is that they only want 2 total churches in the center. That is where God comes in. We can only do so much but he can do anything. Be praying about this. George is working hard on this project and he is making some good progress but we know it is ultimately up to God.
Can you imagine, being in the heart of the fastest growing part of our city. I can.
I am also doing the message this weekend at the Brush Prairie campus on Listening to God. Do you think there is any connection here?
It is exciting to know that we have limitations but God has none. What is it that God is speaking to your heart that you need to trust Him for? If you step out there, God will always meet you.
Until next time.

Pastor Rick