Monday Night Mind Dump

I would like to continue the discussion from facebook here on my blog...

I just wanted to start a dialogue among our core group. Today, I allowed my flesh to get in the way of our calling and vision. I feel we have hit a barrier at Real Life. It is time to begin answering a few questions. I would love to have your honest feedback without the hoorah. Pray and search your own heart for some insights. Let's get a dialogue opening and find some options.

1) What is the Right question? It always must begin with the right question. It is perfectly acceptable to diaagree. I believe our worship is 'excellent.' I believe our vision is 'right.' So, in my opinion the start of this discussion begins with "What Are We Missing?"

2) It is not Why We Are Not Growing, But What Is Keeping Us From Growing? God's desire is for His church to grow. How we implement this truth is part of the issue. Is it building issues? What can be improved? What needs to be improved? Is it our church model? Do we need to change something around? Are we falling short in outreach and evangelism? Do we need to do more? Are we successfully connecting with people building relationships? Is our infrastructure designed so that we will grow? Take a question and share your thoughts.

3) What is our goal as a church? Where do you see us heading? Then, how will we get there?

Be sure to leave your ideas and thoughts...

The Download...

Sunday was huge! We started a new series and kicked it off right. Here's The Download with my Top 5!

1. Never preach on addictions if you can't be honest yourself. We tackled the Real Life issue of addictions at Real Life Church Sunday. Gambling - on Super Bowl Sunday; Porn - yeah I said it; Alcohol and Drugs - legal ones as well; shopping - almost got run out of town; TV - Sportscenter can be an addiction; and anything else we could think of. One of the Lifers even thought Religion could be an addiction. That's some heavy stuff.
2. Whole Nother Level Music. When you have world-class muscians, you get some great music for worship. It was awesome! The only thing I need right now is a bigger place!
3. I love our People! They are visionaries. They are Lifers. We spent January 2009 on vision and having some BHAGs. They listened. That always blows me away.
4. Make the Investment in Outreach. It is great to see new people at Real Life. That motivates us to be inviters. It encourages us to do more!
5. Make a Change!

I want to speak more on #5. I challeneged myself to spend more time with God this week. Sunday was more effective...you should have seen God moving. I felt more ready to be His vessel, God moved in me as well. I get busy, like we all do. Make a commitment to replace something in your day with God. Go make that change. It's a challenge - believe me - I know! While trying to get things more organized for God...I felt more stress and battled more issues. Stick with it.

Give us your thoughts. Leave a comment or two. If your ready to make a change of your own...let us help!