Happy Birthday Lorri!

I enjoyed spending time with my family during the Thanksgiving Holidays. I am thankful for my family!

Today, my sister, Lorri is celebrating her birthday. My sister is awesome! She is such a wonderful, caring, and beautiful person. I hope she has a blessed day! I love you, sis!

The December Calendar

I can't believe how fast this year has gone by. Russell and I sat down this morning planning for the up-coming month and new year. December will begin with Russell and me finishing up our Y-Series! His message will center around Y-Give, and I will finish the series with Y-Church.

This will take us two weeks into December, leaving us with three more Sundays in 2006 to impact our community of believers.

Looking back on the year, I am amazed at the giant leaps of faith we have taken as a church. Since the beginning of the year, we have called a worship leader (David Story), multiplied our Small Groups (from two to five), began numerous Life Transformation Groups, and have reached our monthly financial goals every month, except for one. Another exciting statistic is that we have averaged in the fifties and sixties since July! This past month, we averaged 61 people for the month, with an all time high (on our own) of 101 people.

We realize that we have a lot of work left to do. There are still plenty of people in Morgantown, and the world who are not yet fully developing followers of Jesus Christ. Russell and I discussed our inadequacies, and our desire to do a better job in 2007. One of the things we are going to do is plan our 2007 Calendar year. We hope to have our Sermon Series for 07' in the bag and ready to go. We want God to use our church in a greater, and more abundant way in the up-coming year.

Connecting Through Small Groups

Tonight's gathering was amazing! I enjoyed gathering with my family, and all of my StoneBridge friends. We had a wonderful meal (Spaghetti, Salad, Garlic Bread and Desserts).

The most important reason for our gathering was to pray and study God's Word. We looked at Isaiah 55. Isaiah 55 begins with an invitation for people to "Come" to God. The wonderful thing about God's invitation is that it is extended to all people, the rich, the poor, the middle class...all people.

Another good thing about this invitation is that it is offered to you freely, but came with a high price.

I Peter 1:17-20, "17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. 20 He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you 21 who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God."

I've noticed that my entries (as of late) have been all relating to either the Mountaineers, Buckeyes, or something other than my relationship with Christ. I have had a good time writing about these things, but it is my relationship with Christ that is the most important thing in my life. I am thankful to God for His invitation to be a part of his Kingdom work. It is an honor and a privilege to be called a child of the King!

Thank you, Jesus!

Pictures From Ohio

Bah, Humbug

We tried to get the Christmas lights up last night, but the darkness came before the work could be finished.

Decorating for Christmas is always a hassle for me (Bah, humbug), but when we finish I am always glad that I partook.

My neighbors have had their lights up for about a month. I guess they are anxious for Christmas to come. You know, it might not be a bad idea to just leave Christmas lights up year round since it comes around so fast.

Burning The Midnight Oil

Russell started a new series last week entitled Y. Y-Grow! was the first of four messages in the Y Series.

Today, my message was Y-Jesus! I dealt with three reasons to follow Jesus. I was up past 2:00 a.m. this morning honing the message. Here are the reasons to become a fully developing follower of Jesus Christ.

1. Because you can trust Him!

2. Because He is coming again.

3. Because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Happy Birthday Kristie!

Here are my two sweet girls! Kristie (my wife) celebrates her __ st birthday today. I have chosen to leave the number out to protect the innocent.

We have enjoyed our time in Ohio. Now, it's time to head back to the Mountains of West Virginia. We will be traveling today, so for those of you who read my blog, say a special prayer for us.

Happy Birthday, Kristie! I love you very much!

Prediction for November 25, 2006

WVU 48 - USF 14

Caught In A Moment

"Are you going?" Those were the words I heard at 4:55 this morning. Kristie and I were up late last night going through Sales Ads for the Day after Thanksgiving Sales.

We went to the Big Box Mart (look for Big Box Mart Icon), Target, Best Buy (stood outside for about 2 or 3 minutes, then left) Home Depot, Kohls, Elder-Beerman, Meijers, and Lowes. We finished the morning off with two Sausage Biscuits, two Hash browns, Breakfast Burrito, and a Hot Cakes and Sausage meal from Mickey D's.

It felt good to go shopping with Kristie without the kids. Mom was ready, and willing to watch Josiah and Jaden this morning. I am so thankful to be around my family. It's been fun!

Just thought I would share a few thoughts about my experience this morning.

1. After Thanksgiving Sales are a lot more fun than I thought.


2. Most guys hate shopping, but today's experience was not shopping, it was hunting!


3. Everyone loves a good deal!


4. Most people get caught in the moment of the deal instead of rationalizing their purchase.


5. As a whole, we are very greedy!

"Our People Make The Difference"

Wal-mart makes a statement: Respect for the Individual and Corporate Contributions .

I have heard through the grapevine that Wal-mart received over 100,000 emails from Conservatives displaying their disapproval of their recent partnership with the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

I did not send Wal-mart an email of my disapproval, but I did send them an email thanking them for remaining neutral in the cultural wars.

What Is Your Take On This?

American Family Assosciation reported that Wal-mart would be donating 5% of their online sales to the National & Gay Lesbian Chamber of Commerce during the Friday and Saturday Super Sales following Thanksgiving.

Urbanlegends reports that the American Family Association misrepresented Wal-mart's stand on minority groups. Please read the above links for more information.

What do you think?

See You Next Sunday

I missed seeing everyone at StoneBridge yesterday. I enjoyed attending my home church in Overpeck, Ohio, but I guarantee you, there is no place like StoneBridge!

Russ, thanks for preaching God's Word. I am so thankful to work with a Staff of people that will get the job done, even when I am away. As a matter of fact, the local church does not depend on a pastor, it depends on a group of like-minded people who have gathered together to hear, and do the Word of God.

One part of the StoneBridge Vision is to meet the needs of this generation and the generations that follow. We do not want our church to grow and prosper for our benefit alone, but for our kids and grand-kids, as well.

We understand that none of this will take place without the aid of the Holy Spirit and the work of God's people. It is important that we never forget the reason we exist, The Great Commission! It is our duty and privilege to make more and better disciples of Jesus Christ.

I was listening to Nelson Searcy's Breaking the 65 Barrier the other day, when I heard something profound. He said, "Pastor, do you have a vision for your church?" He went on to say, "It's not necessarily the "thing" written on paper, but the benefits of the vision." In other words, when you cast your vision, are you telling people the "why" of the vision? God has not only placed a vision in your heart (but with that vision), He has placed the benefits of the vision.

Let's go get'em friends!

The New Polls Are Out

Just in case you haven't seen the new polls.

How About Them Buckeyes

Buckeyes win! The Buckeyes end their regular season 12-0, beating Michigan 42-39. University of Cincinnati beat Rutgers 30-11, and Arkansas beat Mississippi State 28-14.

Now, you would think with an Entry Title called "How About Them Buckeyes" that this entry would be about the Buckeyes...but it is not. This entry is about the Razorbacks. You see, the Razorbacks beat Mississippi State 28-14, but all this talk about Arkansas made me take a peek back into history. The day was October 7, 2006. The Mountaineers traveled to Mississippi to do battle with MSU, but to be honest, it wasn't much of a battle. The Mountaineers beat MSU 42-14! So, what this means is that if the Mountaineers play Arkansas, West Virginia will have a 14 point advantage.

Hey, Scott I sure do hope the Mountaineers will face the Hawgs. My Mountaineer friend, Brady Campbell is getting his Rifle ready to go hunting! Hope you have a great Sunday!

Having Kids Changes Everything

I am sure many of you have heard Johnson and Johnson's advertising campaign slogan, "Having a Baby changes everything." I can definitely concur!

Yesterday, about 1:45 p.m., we got in the car and headed for the state of Ohio. After many stops, we finally arrived in Hamilton about 11:00 p.m. The kids were absolutely worn out, along with two weary parents. Note: This is usually a 5 1/2 to 6 hour trip.

I am very thankful to God for my two special blessings (Josiah and Jaden), but they definitely try my patience. This morning, Josiah woke up at 5:00 a.m. He and Mamaw were having a great time together. He was so wound up!

I thought that I would share with you several things I try to do when the kids wig me out! Here are several tips which I have learned concerning discipline.

• Take a deep breath.


• Count to ten.


• Apply Proverbs 29:15, when necessary.


• Remove Privileges.


• Place child in a "Naughty Corner."


• Be Consistent (Say what you mean, and mean what you say.)


• Always explain what you are doing, and why you are doing it.


• Always discipline in love.


• Always give hugs and kisses after applying Proverbs 29:15.

Game Of The Week

Today's game may be the biggest game in the history of both of these Big 10 teams. With Bo Schembechler passing away yesterday, the Wolverines will be Chopin' at the bits!

As most of you know, I am from Southwestern Ohio. I was born and raised in Hamilton, Ohio, moved to Texas when I was twenty, and West Virginia when I was thirty.

I am excited to be in my home state this weekend to watch the Buckeyes play for another opportunity at the National Championship. Troy Smith, Ohio State quarterback said, "I expect it to be all 11 games in one. It is going to be complete pandemonium around the stadium with two teams of this caliber and tradition. There is going to be mile-high excitement all around."

Five Things A Single Dude Needs To Know

If you are a single dude, you need to check out this link.

Used And Abused

My "former" friend, Scott Bates has used and abused me. I am seriously thinking about calling the Mountaineer , Brady Campbell to take his rifle and shoot some Hogs!

Yea, Yea, that's what I'll do (insert evil laugh).

Thanks Scott, you truly got me!

Prediction for November 16, 2006

WVU 52 - PITT 17

Explanation

Okay...So, I started trimming my hair the other day because I was tired of looking at the uneven top which my barber had left the last time at her shop. I was trimming away, when I noticed my sideburns were thicker than I enjoy. So, being the good Barber that I am (hehehe) I decided to take the guard off the clippers (Big Mistake). As I was hearing the sound of the clippers, I could see the hair falling to the ground.

Now, I am not usually one for buzz cuts, but after seeing the funky looking Mohawk, I decided that a buzz cut would look much better than an 80's Mohawk. Imagine that!

I am enjoying the low maintenance (Johnny J.), the slick look =), and my son rubbing my head saying, "I like your Pappy Hair." BTW, Josiah would love to have a buzz cut, but Kristie will not comply.

Isaiah 9:6

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Mad Man Gone Wild....Do You Like My Hair-a

Tracking New Guests

Yesterday's services were top shelf. We had several Courtesy Visits (People who are members at other churches), but overall, the attendance was up again. We had 79 people in attendance with several new college students and a new family of four.

Since our church's conception we have always used communication cards to track our guests. Lately, this has not been too effective. Russell and I have been trying to re-think our strategy on tracking new guests. Should we buy a Guest Book? Should we grab our guests by the collar and make them fill out a card? or Should we offer new cars for every new person in attendance?

Seriously though, we have wondered what the most effective way to track new guests. If you have any suggestions, please comment below. Thanks.

Part Of The Vision

Manny J. is a part of the StoneBridge Vision. It is our desire and prayer to God, to train, teach, and encourage people to become "fully developing followers of Jesus Christ."

When we moved to Morgantown, WV three years ago, we knew God was going to use our church to develop men to become future Pastors and Church Planters. So far, there have been several men who have announced their call to the ministry. Some have left our church, while others have dove right in, knowing that one day they will become a part of something significant for the glory of God.

I have been working with Manny for the past several days on his message for Sunday. He is going to do a great job! His message will be taken from Luke 16:19-31. He has entitled the message, The Richest Man In Town.

There are two main points that Manny wants to express:

1. People Need Jesus.
2. People Need to Share Jesus.

As a pastor, I don't think there is anything greater to preach about than this.

Thank You

Nuff Said!

"Late" Prediction for November 11, 2006

WVU 24 - UC 17

This was my prediction, even though the score ended up being 42-24. Special thanks to Russ for inviting me to the game.

Good Thoughts

Check this entry out here.

On Preaching

From the mouth of a Mountaineer Football player..."We get yelled at enough. We just need someone to teach us (the Word)."

I wonder about our preaching today. Should we scream? Should we be eloquent? Should we be conversational?

I think we should know our culture and our audience. Since I've moved to Morgantown, my preaching style has changed. When in Texas, I always tried to fire it up. Why?

• Because that was my style (BTW, I still enjoy a good fiery sermon).
• Because people in East Texas (for the most part) enjoy a good fiery sermon.

Our culture is changing. The question we should ask, "Am I willing to change my style if it means I will be more effective?"

One time I preached at a church in East Texas, and after the first service the pastor pulled me aside and said, "Jason, your style of preaching is scaring these children. They come from homes where their parents are always screaming at one another." My arrogant response was, "Listen, if you don't like my preaching, then you can get someone else." How goofy! After a few more years of ministry under my belt, I finally understand what this seasoned pastor was trying to tell me. "KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE, STUPID!"

The Homeless Guy: Scary American Halloween

The Homeless Guy: Scary American Halloween

No More Boppy

Well, it's official. Josiah completed one night without his Pacifier (Boppy). It was a rough night, but he made it.

For the past month or two, Kristie and I have been talking to our little boy about giving his Boppy away on his third birthday. So, last night we stuck to our guns even though he cried for it. It was one small step for us, but one giant leap for Josiah. =)

Manny The Baptist

Manny Johnson has been attending StoneBridge for the past two years. 2006 has been a great year for Manny. He's had some struggles (like most of us), but he has overcome with the help of the Lord and fellow StoneBridgers! I am proud to have Manny in our church. He's one of those guys who'll do whatever he can to help you.

This past summer (during CityReach), Manny announced his call to the ministry. This Sunday, he will preach his first sermon. I believe the text will come from Luke 16:19-31.

His prayer and desire for his friends is for them to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. As a matter of fact, that's StoneBridge's prayer and desire. We want our friends in Morgantown to know Jesus Christ and to become fully developing followers of Jesus Christ.

Happy Birthday, Josiah

Kristie baked aThomas Cake for Josiah's Birthday Party. It was awesome! Josiah celebrated his 3rd Birthday this past Saturday, but today is his official Birthday. Happy Birthday, Josiah. I love you BIG TIME!

My Ford Exploder...I Mean Explorer

I bought a 2002 Ford Explorer in January, 2002. It was a Program Vehicle with 27,000 miles. Kristie warned me that night not to purchase it, but I just had to have it. I knew we were about to be on one of the greatest adventures (deputation for church planting) in our lifetime, so I rushed into the deal and have regretted it ever since. Since January 02, we have had our Explorer in the shop approximately forty times (no exaggerations).

Tonight, Dan, Kevin, Manny, Ouss and I decided to work on the Exploder. We were going to make a couple of simple routine changes. "No problem," we thought.

Problem number 1: We couldn't loosen the bolt on the Transmission Pan.

Problem number 2: Advance Auto didn't have a 16 bolt Transmission Filter.

Problem number 3: When we finally took the pan off and drained the fluid, there was no dip stick to add the new fluid. What a nightmare! What goofy person would design a Transmission with no place to check the fluid level or add new fluid (that is from under the hood). End rant here! It made all of us want to #@$%, but we didn't! Instead, we read the entire book of 2 Thessalonians (okay, there is only three chapters).

All and all, we had a wonderful time of male bonding. Thanks fellas for changing my oil and for helping me with the Transmission. You guys are the best!

Lessons Learned (Part 1)

• Form your Prayer Teams early, and keep people informed (I still need to work on this one).
• Make sure you have your Wife and Family's full support.
• Find a Church Planting Partner (Co-Pastor).
• Raise your support (even if it takes you 12-18 months).
• Teach your people what it means to Partner with other churches in your Association.
• Put in at the beginning what you want in the end.
• Always strive for excellence.

Lessons Learned (Part 2)

• Remember, the people that you have in the beginning, probably won't be with you in the end.
• Value Worship, Small Groups, Life Transformation Groups, Children's Ministry, Technology and Graphics.
• Continue to Cast the Vision of your church every 30 days.
• Don't ever alter your vision to gain members (be willing to die for the vision).
• Never stop gathering people (knock doors, frequent the same Restaurants and Hair Salons).
• Encourage your wife to join MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) if you have younger children.
• Office at Panera Bread. =)
• Take your time, because relationships take time!
• Don't launch your church prematurely (Use this time to train leaders and workers).

Lessons Learned (Part 3)

• Embrace your meeting place (if you meet in a movie theatre, then embrace the place).
• It's not a bad thing to be a Mobile church (as a matter of fact it may be a little more flexible than having a building and land, it's definitely a lot cheaper). =)
• Take note: People in the early stages of the game will probably not be with you three years down the road.
• Find a person of peace who will gather a crowd for you.
• Visit other churches in your city to understand your community better.
• Build a Strategic Plan for reaching your community (a flow chart).
• Hang out with other church planters.
• Go to Conferences.
• Read Church Planting sites and blogs.
• Stay true to the Word of God!
• Always evaluate what you've done (Why do Coaches show film the first practice after the game?).
• Remain humble (it's not about you!).

Reflecting On The Day

What an amazing day! We had 101 people attend StoneBridge this morning. Today marked our 3rd Anniversary as a church.

Special thanks to Dustin C. for filming and editing our StoneBridge Video. To the Warner Theatre Staff for their warm, friendly, welcoming attitudes. To Ci-Ci's Pizza for donating 10 pizzas, plus dessert pizza. To all of our guests for having the courage to attend services in a movie theatre. To all of our members and regulars, you are the reason we are here!

This Rocks!

Answered Prayer

Special thanks for lifting up my mother in prayer. Today's Angiogram revealed two arteries blocked at 50%.

The good news is that she will not have to have another surgery. The bad news is that she will be battling heart disease for the rest of her life.

I am thankful for the advancements that have been made by Doctors, and those involved in the medical field. Because of their labor and devotion to people, my mother will live a longer life on this earth.

I give thanks to God for His continual watch-care over us.

One On The Chin

After a hard fought battle, my Mountaineers took one on the chin. It was like Buster Douglas taking out Mike Tyson for the Heavyweight Championship Fight in 1990. It was definitely a BIG game for both teams. It's too bad the Eers will not be playing for a National Championship.

All I've got to say bout that is...Maybe next year!

Prediction For November 2, 2006

WVU 35 - Louisville 17

This One's For Mom

My mother (my sister, Lorri in the photo above) is an amazing woman. I thank God for her influence on my life. Growing up in Southwestern Ohio (New Miami-Home of the Vikings), I understood the blue collar life and hillbillies. As a matter of fact, Hamilton's nickname is Hamil-tucky, because most of the people in Southwest Ohio are originally from Kentucky.

My mother moved to the Cincinnati area when she was 18 years old. She lost her mother at the age of 10, and her dad at the age of 33. During her life she has cleaned houses, raised kids, worked in department stores, and ended her career with Champion International Paper Company.

I do not praise her enough for all of the sacrifices that she made (makes) for me in my life. She has done without, so that me and my siblings would have nice clothes, cars, money etc. I truly appreciate her sacrifice. I am thankful that she taught us about Jesus. As a kid, I remember singing old hymns with mom and praying for her when she was sick. I remember laying my hands on her head, saying, "Jesus, thank you for mommy's headache." I am sure she appreciated the thought, but not the headache. :) Or on second thought, I may have been the cause of the headache.

The main reason I am writing about my mother is for all my readers to place her on your prayer list. In 2002, mom had a quadruple by-pass, and now, the Doctors have found some more blockage in the front of her heart. Tomorrow, she will be going in for an Angiogram. So, please lift her up!

Mom, I love you so much. Thank you for being my mother and friend. Thank you for all of the sacrifices which you have made. I am honored to be your son!

Last, But Not Least

My little guy will be celebrating his Birthday this Saturday even though his birthday isn't until Tuesday. Happy 3rd Birthday, Dude! I love you!

BTW, I bet you can't guess what the theme will be?

Give up?


THOMAS!

Pumped About Sunday

I am pumped about our 3rd Anniversary! Starting tomorrow, I will be advertising our services on WVAQ between 7:20 a.m. - 7:30 a.m.

Our church is hosting a huge day for our community. I hope the people of Morgantown will take advantage of us. =) We will have regular services at 10 a.m., then free pizza, popcorn, drinks, and BIRTHDAY CAKE! Yea, God! Yea, StoneBridge! It's going to be a blast!

If you are in Morgantown, you don't want to miss this Party for Jesus!

An Amazing Church

I am blessed to pastor the greatest church on the Planet! I have been a part of some great churches in my days, but pastoring StoneBridge has been so wonderful.

Now, it's not been without difficulties. We have had our ups and downs, but overall, God has truly placed the right people in our church. We have young men who are wrestling with the call to ministry and others who willingly take the lead when called upon. I feel so honored to pastor these wonderful people. My heart's desire and prayer to God is for our people to be passionate about Jesus Christ.

I realize that if our church is going to be passionate, giving, caring, friendly, supportive of missions, and in love with Jesus it's got to start with me.