Something I have been trying to wrap my brain around lately in regard to leadership within the church is the difference between these two distinctions: seeing church staff as "leaders of leaders," vs. "lead discipler," or "lead disciple maker." What are your thoughts on this issue? (I am hoping this blog entry will become more of a dialogue than a single post of my thoughts alone. Post away! Is it one or the other? A combo of both? If so, to what degree? Which do you feel is most important (i.e. expectations of staff members)?
I have many friends all over the country involved in ministry as well as local Horizonite leaders. I'd love to hear from all of you.
DCC
7.23.2006
7.18.2006
I love Horizon, so should you...
Well, I gave my last message this last Sunday @ Horizon. That was sort of surreal. What a blessing the last 6 years have been! I have been blessed in working with some of the greatest followers of Christ I have ever known. I have seen many lives changed, and I have had the privilege of baptizing many of them... How cool is that? I have also seen the birth of two new churches here in Maryland... nothing could be better.
It looks as if we not have a commissioning service; time seems to be ticking away. Much of what I will say here I had hoped to share there, but this will suffice:
I love you... each and every one of you. You have all taught me so much. You have been my greatest of teachers. I am thankful for every experience I have had with you because each experience has strengthened my relationship with Christ in some way. Thanks! I will miss you; every one of you. Thanks for being my family, my community, my friends.
My prayer is that you will continue to carry the torch for Church Planting, that the mission set before us to reach the NE will be met, that relationships will embody a healthy community, that you never lose sight of God's Word nor quench the Holy Spirit, and that you will continue to love one another in the manner that Christ loves you. Always remember the ones that have yet to hear and have yet to experience Christ's love and grace. Develop them, as God gives you the grace to, into fully devoted followers of Him. Persevere, press on... never give up! Be a people known for grace and encouragement, not criticism or challenge. May you love people with the five love languages: lift them up with praise, give them a hug, spend time with them, serve them, and lavish them with gifts. Forgive one another. Stand for Truth, know the Truth, and live the Truth. Be ever broken before God, never prideful or arrogant. Always remember that Christ loved you while you were yet sinners, and love all the sinners of the world as Christ did for you.
My prayer is that God will bless you and keep you... all of you. And that He that began a good work in you will see it to it's completion. I leave you now, but only in a physical way. You will always be in my heart, as cheesy as that may sound. I will take you wherever I go.
God's peace...
DCC
It looks as if we not have a commissioning service; time seems to be ticking away. Much of what I will say here I had hoped to share there, but this will suffice:
I love you... each and every one of you. You have all taught me so much. You have been my greatest of teachers. I am thankful for every experience I have had with you because each experience has strengthened my relationship with Christ in some way. Thanks! I will miss you; every one of you. Thanks for being my family, my community, my friends.
My prayer is that you will continue to carry the torch for Church Planting, that the mission set before us to reach the NE will be met, that relationships will embody a healthy community, that you never lose sight of God's Word nor quench the Holy Spirit, and that you will continue to love one another in the manner that Christ loves you. Always remember the ones that have yet to hear and have yet to experience Christ's love and grace. Develop them, as God gives you the grace to, into fully devoted followers of Him. Persevere, press on... never give up! Be a people known for grace and encouragement, not criticism or challenge. May you love people with the five love languages: lift them up with praise, give them a hug, spend time with them, serve them, and lavish them with gifts. Forgive one another. Stand for Truth, know the Truth, and live the Truth. Be ever broken before God, never prideful or arrogant. Always remember that Christ loved you while you were yet sinners, and love all the sinners of the world as Christ did for you.
My prayer is that God will bless you and keep you... all of you. And that He that began a good work in you will see it to it's completion. I leave you now, but only in a physical way. You will always be in my heart, as cheesy as that may sound. I will take you wherever I go.
God's peace...
DCC
7.11.2006
The Beginning of it All... (see the two posts below as well)
6.08.2004
The Birth of a Vision
Hey, this is something I have been thinking about posting for a while, so here we go. The following (with more to come) are THE VERY FIRST dialogue/discussion stuff between me and Clay when we first met about hooking up for a church plant. Keep in mind as you read these several things:
1. Clay and I knew each other, though not fully. So as you read these, you see two guys trying to get to each other's heart: what makes the other tick.
2. Kimme and I had been speaking with folks in Maryland since mid-May 1999. These conversations began around late November; hence the reason for Clay's questions about the place.
3. When you see something called "the Mix," that was my previous ministry Kimme and I started in New Orleans. When you see Chicago mentioned, it was the possible church plant we turned down to come here.
3. I have left these unedited. I am sure you will get a laugh or two out of this, as I did, knowing how things turned out.
Enjoy! We'll start with Clay's questions to me in an e-mail dated Sunday, November 21, 1999... subject heading: How Cowan got his groove back.
---
Hey Dave,
Sorry for keeping you on the line earlier. Just tell
me when you've got company and I won't ask any
Maryland type questions.
Speaking of questions...
In what town are you planing to plant?
In the literature this community seems to be more
suburban in nature wanting to be a small town. They
are working to cap off any more quick growth,
preserving farm lands. Is this area a prime spot for
a church plant?
Do you already have a plan or are you still working on
how you would start? have you defined the purpose,
estabished rough goals, etc? or is it too early for
that?
What are you looking for in help (are you really even
looking for help or just intrigued) from someone else
joining you in a church plant? What do you need?
What do you see as your role and giftedness? What
would be your role in the first year, second, and
third.
This county is about an hour and a half north of where
I lived in Maryland. My community (Upper Marlboro in
Prince George county) was a part of the whole
Chesapeke bay mentality and this community looks like
it has more of a foothills personality. A lot of
people are probably moving to Carrol from Baltimore so
those people may be more like the people I remember.
I taught high school art for two years (drawing,
painting, pottery) and there seems to be a focus on
the arts in Carrol county. Could help. Allison has a
beautiful voice and is learing to play guitar. She is
the praise leader for the Bible in Blue Jeans (we did
not get a vote on the name for our mini-mix by the
way) but she is working to get beyond the few cords
she is using now. She has a bachelor's in Journalism,
but one more year and she can get the teaching degree
she wants. If that could happen the first year it
would be good for us.
I am amazed by the possibility of doing this. I am
confident that I could pastor a more traditional
church in the bible belt and be pretty good at it, so
it has nothing to do with running from anything. We
do not have enough churches and we do not have near
enough churches with God-focus...this has to change
and I get giddy thinking I could be a part of that.
I would like to talk to Dr. Weathersby soon. I am
late getting in on the neimiah project, but if I act
right away it can be done. Let me know if you are
still thinking about this and when we can talk more.
Take care
Clay
-------
My response: Dated Monday, November 22, 1999... subject heading: lookin' for housing? groovy!
-------
Speaking of answers...
Speaking of questions...
"In what town are you planing to plant?"
Well, the target area for Bill Crowe (associational director) is Westminister.
"In the literature this community seems to be more suburban in nature wanting to be a small town. They are working to cap off any more quick growth, preserving farm lands. Is this area a prime spot for a church plant?"
Yes, this was my big concern. I really felt like, "Hey, this AIN'T me, OK?" In fact, things look worse when you look at the psychographics. That stuff makes it look like grandma, apple pie, and USA. I was REAL concerned about this, and was honest with Bill telling him beforehand that when I interviewed and saw the town in better detail and didn't "feel" it, I wanted another suggestion. His suggestion was Elkridge, a SW suburb of Baltimore. I was excited about that until our trip to Westminister.
Remember, the intent is to start a church for the 18-30 age group (Exactly what I do here!). I SAW THAT AGE GROUP EVERYWHERE I WENT and NO ONE WAS REACHING THEM. Yes, the leaders of the town are trying to keep the small town a small town, and they are putting a cap on growth (VERY unlike the situation I told you about in Chicago). But I ask you, where are these people coming from? Well, Baltimore and DC. There are MANY new homes, especially on the West side of Westminister, that are very chic. There is NO WAY that these people work in Westminister. No way! So, they have the city mindset, but like to get away to the suburbs. Interestingly, this town has two universities:
Western Maryland College (link)
Carroll County Community College
"TEAMING WITH THE 18-30 RANGE: Do you already have a plan or are you still working on how you would start? Have you defined the purpose, established rough goals, etc.? Or is it too early for that?"
That's a tough set of questions. Here's where I am coming from right now. I have a very rough idea of things at this point. The ball will begin to roll soon about finding out more concerning our target audience. Bill and I have discussed the awesome call survey I had mentioned to you. That will most likely take place in January 2000 sometime. That will help us IMMENSELY in finding out what to do next.
I would be a little nervous about purpose and core values without meeting with the possible "core" people. I'd like to meet with the possible "core" and do a study from God's word about His church as well as an education on the target audience (18-30). Out of that may come something very similar, if not identical to the MIX, but only God knows. I have toyed with the concept of spreading the MIX like a GOD virus across the land, targeting unchurched areas. The MIX might still work, name and all, as a Seeker type service. Who knows? Just ideas, just ideas...
I get the feeling that the format of things will be similar to the MIX, yet maybe a bit more mature, (like, I am not sure about having games, unless we had someone really good to do them or something. My guess is that the professionals may not dig that, but I still think they would dig quality music. I asked EVERY Xer I ran into down there about Westminister, what they thought, and I got an interesting picture. Apparently, music and arts (as you noted) are big. That means, the music MUST be top notch. That will be tough. There will still be need for the ol' acoustic in small group settings.
"What are you looking for in help (are you really even looking for help or just intrigued) from someone else joining you in a church plant? What do you need?"
I am VERY interested in help. I really believe in a team approach. I work really well in that environment, as a typical Xer. As you may recall, that's what the setup was to be in Chicago. My hopes still linger with the possibility that some of the MIXers here will join the work up there. Again, if the MIX spreads, I could see the MIX here in NOLA as a training ground for sending out trained and ready MIX leaders to begin new works throughout our country. Again, just ideas. On a more personal note, I look forward to speaking with you about how YOU feel about working with me and Kimme with this. I think that Westminister may be one in a series of starts I may be involved with. We shall see. That would leave you in the drivers seat in time.
"What do you see as your role and giftedness? What would be your role in the first year, second, and third?"
I see myself as the equipping leader. God has gifted me in putting highly effective and creative people together to make things work. I have the gift of vision, seeing down the road, if you will. I dream BIG and see results. However, I must tell you, I am not an administrator. I really need a good administrator that would work with me. I make a good combo with that kind of working relationship. The first year, hard to say. Second year, hard to say. Third year, hard to say. Ultimately, I would probably be lead pastor (that's what they are hiring me for, anyway), but with the understanding that at some point I may transfer leadership to start another one. There is a possibility, however, that you would be the lead, and I assist you. I HAVE NO IDEA. Only God knows. The question is, do you feel called to work with a particular generation... Are those 18-30 year olds a passion for you... Think about it.
"We do not have enough churches and we do not have near enough churches with God-focus...this has to change and I get giddy thinking I could be a part of that."
ME TOO!
"Let me know if you are still thinking about this and when we can talk more."
Yeah, this week is real tough because Kimme works 6 days straight. She will not be free until Thanksgiving, and then on Sunday, we leave for Westminister to look for housing. I'd really like her to be there for the talks. As it is, I'll give her a copy of this e-mail and the one you sent. I have tried to keep her informed. If, however, you need to chat THIS WEEK, we could arrange it. Kimme may fall asleep on us! Wed. night might be best but that's up to you. We are off at church this Wed. (no activities in lieu of Thanksgiving). Call me, and at least you and I could do lunch. I have plans on Tuesday for lunch, but give me some suggestions.
Thanks!
-------
Clay's Respose:
You are further along than I realized. It is good to
wait until Kimmie (sp?) can talk with us without
falling asleep... unless she talks in her sleep,
maybe. Ya'll let us know when you are ready. Allison
and I are leaving Tue. morning and will be back Fri.
evening. I'm sure you will be focused on your trip
then so we can wait to talk if you want. Enjoy,
relax, buy a pretty house, and dream big dreams.
I'm calling Bill Crowe to find out what I can from his
end. Even though it is crazy early, Allison and I are
feeling peaceful about this. You have a solid mix of
confidence/ability and humility that makes this good.
We are praying.
Take care,
Clay
The Birth of a Vision
Hey, this is something I have been thinking about posting for a while, so here we go. The following (with more to come) are THE VERY FIRST dialogue/discussion stuff between me and Clay when we first met about hooking up for a church plant. Keep in mind as you read these several things:
1. Clay and I knew each other, though not fully. So as you read these, you see two guys trying to get to each other's heart: what makes the other tick.
2. Kimme and I had been speaking with folks in Maryland since mid-May 1999. These conversations began around late November; hence the reason for Clay's questions about the place.
3. When you see something called "the Mix," that was my previous ministry Kimme and I started in New Orleans. When you see Chicago mentioned, it was the possible church plant we turned down to come here.
3. I have left these unedited. I am sure you will get a laugh or two out of this, as I did, knowing how things turned out.
Enjoy! We'll start with Clay's questions to me in an e-mail dated Sunday, November 21, 1999... subject heading: How Cowan got his groove back.
---
Hey Dave,
Sorry for keeping you on the line earlier. Just tell
me when you've got company and I won't ask any
Maryland type questions.
Speaking of questions...
In what town are you planing to plant?
In the literature this community seems to be more
suburban in nature wanting to be a small town. They
are working to cap off any more quick growth,
preserving farm lands. Is this area a prime spot for
a church plant?
Do you already have a plan or are you still working on
how you would start? have you defined the purpose,
estabished rough goals, etc? or is it too early for
that?
What are you looking for in help (are you really even
looking for help or just intrigued) from someone else
joining you in a church plant? What do you need?
What do you see as your role and giftedness? What
would be your role in the first year, second, and
third.
This county is about an hour and a half north of where
I lived in Maryland. My community (Upper Marlboro in
Prince George county) was a part of the whole
Chesapeke bay mentality and this community looks like
it has more of a foothills personality. A lot of
people are probably moving to Carrol from Baltimore so
those people may be more like the people I remember.
I taught high school art for two years (drawing,
painting, pottery) and there seems to be a focus on
the arts in Carrol county. Could help. Allison has a
beautiful voice and is learing to play guitar. She is
the praise leader for the Bible in Blue Jeans (we did
not get a vote on the name for our mini-mix by the
way) but she is working to get beyond the few cords
she is using now. She has a bachelor's in Journalism,
but one more year and she can get the teaching degree
she wants. If that could happen the first year it
would be good for us.
I am amazed by the possibility of doing this. I am
confident that I could pastor a more traditional
church in the bible belt and be pretty good at it, so
it has nothing to do with running from anything. We
do not have enough churches and we do not have near
enough churches with God-focus...this has to change
and I get giddy thinking I could be a part of that.
I would like to talk to Dr. Weathersby soon. I am
late getting in on the neimiah project, but if I act
right away it can be done. Let me know if you are
still thinking about this and when we can talk more.
Take care
Clay
-------
My response: Dated Monday, November 22, 1999... subject heading: lookin' for housing? groovy!
-------
Speaking of answers...
Speaking of questions...
"In what town are you planing to plant?"
Well, the target area for Bill Crowe (associational director) is Westminister.
"In the literature this community seems to be more suburban in nature wanting to be a small town. They are working to cap off any more quick growth, preserving farm lands. Is this area a prime spot for a church plant?"
Yes, this was my big concern. I really felt like, "Hey, this AIN'T me, OK?" In fact, things look worse when you look at the psychographics. That stuff makes it look like grandma, apple pie, and USA. I was REAL concerned about this, and was honest with Bill telling him beforehand that when I interviewed and saw the town in better detail and didn't "feel" it, I wanted another suggestion. His suggestion was Elkridge, a SW suburb of Baltimore. I was excited about that until our trip to Westminister.
Remember, the intent is to start a church for the 18-30 age group (Exactly what I do here!). I SAW THAT AGE GROUP EVERYWHERE I WENT and NO ONE WAS REACHING THEM. Yes, the leaders of the town are trying to keep the small town a small town, and they are putting a cap on growth (VERY unlike the situation I told you about in Chicago). But I ask you, where are these people coming from? Well, Baltimore and DC. There are MANY new homes, especially on the West side of Westminister, that are very chic. There is NO WAY that these people work in Westminister. No way! So, they have the city mindset, but like to get away to the suburbs. Interestingly, this town has two universities:
Western Maryland College (link)
Carroll County Community College
"TEAMING WITH THE 18-30 RANGE: Do you already have a plan or are you still working on how you would start? Have you defined the purpose, established rough goals, etc.? Or is it too early for that?"
That's a tough set of questions. Here's where I am coming from right now. I have a very rough idea of things at this point. The ball will begin to roll soon about finding out more concerning our target audience. Bill and I have discussed the awesome call survey I had mentioned to you. That will most likely take place in January 2000 sometime. That will help us IMMENSELY in finding out what to do next.
I would be a little nervous about purpose and core values without meeting with the possible "core" people. I'd like to meet with the possible "core" and do a study from God's word about His church as well as an education on the target audience (18-30). Out of that may come something very similar, if not identical to the MIX, but only God knows. I have toyed with the concept of spreading the MIX like a GOD virus across the land, targeting unchurched areas. The MIX might still work, name and all, as a Seeker type service. Who knows? Just ideas, just ideas...
I get the feeling that the format of things will be similar to the MIX, yet maybe a bit more mature, (like, I am not sure about having games, unless we had someone really good to do them or something. My guess is that the professionals may not dig that, but I still think they would dig quality music. I asked EVERY Xer I ran into down there about Westminister, what they thought, and I got an interesting picture. Apparently, music and arts (as you noted) are big. That means, the music MUST be top notch. That will be tough. There will still be need for the ol' acoustic in small group settings.
"What are you looking for in help (are you really even looking for help or just intrigued) from someone else joining you in a church plant? What do you need?"
I am VERY interested in help. I really believe in a team approach. I work really well in that environment, as a typical Xer. As you may recall, that's what the setup was to be in Chicago. My hopes still linger with the possibility that some of the MIXers here will join the work up there. Again, if the MIX spreads, I could see the MIX here in NOLA as a training ground for sending out trained and ready MIX leaders to begin new works throughout our country. Again, just ideas. On a more personal note, I look forward to speaking with you about how YOU feel about working with me and Kimme with this. I think that Westminister may be one in a series of starts I may be involved with. We shall see. That would leave you in the drivers seat in time.
"What do you see as your role and giftedness? What would be your role in the first year, second, and third?"
I see myself as the equipping leader. God has gifted me in putting highly effective and creative people together to make things work. I have the gift of vision, seeing down the road, if you will. I dream BIG and see results. However, I must tell you, I am not an administrator. I really need a good administrator that would work with me. I make a good combo with that kind of working relationship. The first year, hard to say. Second year, hard to say. Third year, hard to say. Ultimately, I would probably be lead pastor (that's what they are hiring me for, anyway), but with the understanding that at some point I may transfer leadership to start another one. There is a possibility, however, that you would be the lead, and I assist you. I HAVE NO IDEA. Only God knows. The question is, do you feel called to work with a particular generation... Are those 18-30 year olds a passion for you... Think about it.
"We do not have enough churches and we do not have near enough churches with God-focus...this has to change and I get giddy thinking I could be a part of that."
ME TOO!
"Let me know if you are still thinking about this and when we can talk more."
Yeah, this week is real tough because Kimme works 6 days straight. She will not be free until Thanksgiving, and then on Sunday, we leave for Westminister to look for housing. I'd really like her to be there for the talks. As it is, I'll give her a copy of this e-mail and the one you sent. I have tried to keep her informed. If, however, you need to chat THIS WEEK, we could arrange it. Kimme may fall asleep on us! Wed. night might be best but that's up to you. We are off at church this Wed. (no activities in lieu of Thanksgiving). Call me, and at least you and I could do lunch. I have plans on Tuesday for lunch, but give me some suggestions.
Thanks!
-------
Clay's Respose:
You are further along than I realized. It is good to
wait until Kimmie (sp?) can talk with us without
falling asleep... unless she talks in her sleep,
maybe. Ya'll let us know when you are ready. Allison
and I are leaving Tue. morning and will be back Fri.
evening. I'm sure you will be focused on your trip
then so we can wait to talk if you want. Enjoy,
relax, buy a pretty house, and dream big dreams.
I'm calling Bill Crowe to find out what I can from his
end. Even though it is crazy early, Allison and I are
feeling peaceful about this. You have a solid mix of
confidence/ability and humility that makes this good.
We are praying.
Take care,
Clay
More Historic Musings, see below too!
Post dated: 6.10.2004
Called: "Navigation"
Last night was awesome! In our Link Group I took some time to share a little bit about the heart of Horizon, the direction God has set for us, and the overall vision of the church. I have never, and I mean never, seen a time where sharing/casting the vision has not stirred hearts or encouraged people in some significant way. This was no different. Some of these guys I have known for over a year, but even still, it was like this was all new or fresh to them. Or perhaps, a better way to describe it is that lights were coming on, hearts were being opened. Vision is that which opens eyes to the possibilities, and opens hearts to embrace something "God-sized." What an exciting thing to see with my friends!
Perhaps the neatest part of last night was the discussion concerning Horizon's view of leadership. We are under the deep conviction that when we examine God's Word, we see the following: Leadership is drawing others to Jesus, and into Christ-likeness. The Biblical term for this is discipleship. We see this as leadership, and we see this as something that EVERYONE is called to regardless of knowledge, experience, or personality traits.
Wow, were hearts opening up! It was like an "a-ha!" moment as people were catching the vision that they, too, could be a leader simply by connecting with others, spending time with them, and sharing their faith/walk/experience in Jesus with them. They, too, could make a difference in people's lives and shared what had been shared with them. And THAT'S leadership... The CEO model of leadership found today needs to go (at least in the context of churches), but I digress. :)
What a great night it was, setting our sights on Jesus... redirecting our focus on what lies ahead, and the plans God has for this (His) church.
PRAYER: Lord, thank you for gathering such a wonderful group of people to pursue your purpose @ this time in Horizon's history! Thank you, Jesus, for the stories of the early disciples that inspire us, thousands of years later, to keep moving, keep pressing forward. God, may Your will and Your Spirit have free reign over all that happens... especially now as we look toward public launch of Horizon Towson. For all the hearts and eyes that were opened last night, I pray that You will navigate them in Your direction. Build an excitement and a passion that comes only from Your Spirit's fire. Amen.
Called: "Navigation"
Last night was awesome! In our Link Group I took some time to share a little bit about the heart of Horizon, the direction God has set for us, and the overall vision of the church. I have never, and I mean never, seen a time where sharing/casting the vision has not stirred hearts or encouraged people in some significant way. This was no different. Some of these guys I have known for over a year, but even still, it was like this was all new or fresh to them. Or perhaps, a better way to describe it is that lights were coming on, hearts were being opened. Vision is that which opens eyes to the possibilities, and opens hearts to embrace something "God-sized." What an exciting thing to see with my friends!
Perhaps the neatest part of last night was the discussion concerning Horizon's view of leadership. We are under the deep conviction that when we examine God's Word, we see the following: Leadership is drawing others to Jesus, and into Christ-likeness. The Biblical term for this is discipleship. We see this as leadership, and we see this as something that EVERYONE is called to regardless of knowledge, experience, or personality traits.
Wow, were hearts opening up! It was like an "a-ha!" moment as people were catching the vision that they, too, could be a leader simply by connecting with others, spending time with them, and sharing their faith/walk/experience in Jesus with them. They, too, could make a difference in people's lives and shared what had been shared with them. And THAT'S leadership... The CEO model of leadership found today needs to go (at least in the context of churches), but I digress. :)
What a great night it was, setting our sights on Jesus... redirecting our focus on what lies ahead, and the plans God has for this (His) church.
PRAYER: Lord, thank you for gathering such a wonderful group of people to pursue your purpose @ this time in Horizon's history! Thank you, Jesus, for the stories of the early disciples that inspire us, thousands of years later, to keep moving, keep pressing forward. God, may Your will and Your Spirit have free reign over all that happens... especially now as we look toward public launch of Horizon Towson. For all the hearts and eyes that were opened last night, I pray that You will navigate them in Your direction. Build an excitement and a passion that comes only from Your Spirit's fire. Amen.
What I wrote when we first started Horizon in Towson
Dated: 7.15.2003
---
Paul wrote:
Rom. 15.20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation.
Rom. 15.21 Rather, as it is written: "Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand."
Rom. 15.22 This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you.
Rom. 15.23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to see you,
Rom. 15.24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to visit you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.
Rom. 15.25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the saints there.
I share his thoughts. I learned early in ministry that I have a desire to start new works. It's in me deep; it's in my blood. The thought thrills me to no end. I remember with my first start (more like a para-church deal than a church itself) -- the MIX, in New Orleans -- how addictive it was. Man... to see people schedule their time during the week to come and worship God when before they had no interest was a complete thrill for me.
Now @ Horizon, it's not different. First Owings Mills -- a place with 30,000 people in a one mile radius -- and one struggling church of like 30 in our area when we started. Towson... the numbers are even greater in density, being more urban and with a college campus right next door. Well... there are churches around, but most of them are rather old school... nothing wrong with that, but in the scheme of things -- they are probably finding it harder and harder to reach the college students around them. In comes Horizon...
Yet, the last part of Paul's words are sobering. He desired to get to Spain someday. The passion that drove him in Christ to start new works was the passion that set his sights on Spain. But... most likely, he never made it. Spain was reached, in time... but not by Paul.
Someday, my passion and zeal will drive me elsewhere... and hopefully when I am 60+ years old, I too will set my sights on a new frontier. But, even in that moment -- what matters most is that my zeal and passion infects others so that when I am gone... the dream continues.
Paul's dream continues in me.
DCC
---
Paul wrote:
Rom. 15.20 It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation.
Rom. 15.21 Rather, as it is written: "Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand."
Rom. 15.22 This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you.
Rom. 15.23 But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to see you,
Rom. 15.24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to visit you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.
Rom. 15.25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the saints there.
I share his thoughts. I learned early in ministry that I have a desire to start new works. It's in me deep; it's in my blood. The thought thrills me to no end. I remember with my first start (more like a para-church deal than a church itself) -- the MIX, in New Orleans -- how addictive it was. Man... to see people schedule their time during the week to come and worship God when before they had no interest was a complete thrill for me.
Now @ Horizon, it's not different. First Owings Mills -- a place with 30,000 people in a one mile radius -- and one struggling church of like 30 in our area when we started. Towson... the numbers are even greater in density, being more urban and with a college campus right next door. Well... there are churches around, but most of them are rather old school... nothing wrong with that, but in the scheme of things -- they are probably finding it harder and harder to reach the college students around them. In comes Horizon...
Yet, the last part of Paul's words are sobering. He desired to get to Spain someday. The passion that drove him in Christ to start new works was the passion that set his sights on Spain. But... most likely, he never made it. Spain was reached, in time... but not by Paul.
Someday, my passion and zeal will drive me elsewhere... and hopefully when I am 60+ years old, I too will set my sights on a new frontier. But, even in that moment -- what matters most is that my zeal and passion infects others so that when I am gone... the dream continues.
Paul's dream continues in me.
DCC
7.05.2006
Relationship or Mission?
What is the tie that binds us in the church? What should be our deciding factor when it comes to vision, strategy, or our long term purpose? Among many I know or have served with in ministry, this question boils down to two options or vantage points.
One viewpoint would suggest that our relationships should be our driving force. And to give credit where credit is due, this group is not opposed to mission by any means. In fact, this view point can in many ways champion mission... especially in that there is a focus on doing mission together with those you are close to... those one has a relationship with. This viewpoint is very present tense focused: what does it mean to be the church NOW. All of this makes perfect sense and there is good reasoning, even Biblical support for this perspective.
The other viewpoint (and the one that I am partial to) is that mission should be our driving force. This vantage point suggests that the spreading of the Good News of Jesus surpasses even our relationships. That is not to say that they are in conflict with one another, not by any means. But this ideas suggests that mission, the Great Commission, is why we the church exists. This view of things is very future focused: who will a part of the church THEN? This, too, has Biblical precedent... and for good reason.
Why is one above the other? Well, for one major reason (and a few lesser ones): Our relationships change... Our mission never changes...
Imagine if the early church defined the nature of their existence on who they knew or had relationship with? Would there be a church today if that was their perspective? I doubt it very much. No, instead, mission was the driving force above and beyond relationship. That is why the early church was able to send people, resources, and prayers to and for people they did not know. The people of Macedonia did not know, hang out, grab coffee, disciple, or lead anyone from the church in Jerusalem. Yet still they gave... why? Because there was a prevalent understanding among the early church on mission.
This is the primary difference between the church in Jerusalem and all the churches that followed. One focused on each other and it's own community, that being the church in Jerusalem. The others, from Antioch on, focused on mission... that is to say, those outside of their community. One model is never replicated again in Christendom (Jerusalem) and the other was multiplied over and over again (Antioch). One did not send resources or people regularly, the other did so as it their life depended on it.
Is mission done apart from relationship? Absolutely not! In fact, it was from the mission that relationships developed -- without people, missions cannot be done. Kimme and I came to Baltimore from New Orleans because God had called us there... it was being on mission that drove us here to a people we did not know. Christians from all over (that we had relationship with) gave of their time, resources, and prayer to see that this work was completed... many of these people are not known by Horizonites. Let me speak of a few:
Mrs. Barbara Beck.
She owned one of the first 20 stores that sold Apple Computers back in the early 80s. In fact, of the first 20, hers is the last one standing. What did she do? Well, she initially gave $10,000 to begin a video ministry at the church I was serving in back in 1997. From that came much of the video stuff we now do @ Horizon. It was because of Barbara Beck. Not only that, but she purchased at least one lap top for us, put money down toward another, and in 2000 gave Horizon the old Blue G3 desktop that to this day still produces a lot of our graphic art from Designer [Ted]. At least once a year I give Mrs. Beck a call to say thank you for her gift towards missions, because I know her gift keeps giving. She keeps paying it forward even to this day.
Paul Morrell, Jr.
Paul is the reason at least %25 of the people that come to Horizon (both Owings Mills and Towson) have ever come to visit on Sunday morning. Probably a handful of people know Paul, but for sure very little @ Horizon know his name. He is the artisan behind both versions of our SoulHorizon.com site, and one time Horizon even owned the domain kidhorizon.com to which he created that site as well. Paul gave of his time and also financial resources due to his desire to help a new church plant in Baltimore.
Tad Thompson:
Tad was once the youth minister for a church in Bentonville, Arkansas. I doubt that a handful actually know or remember his name, but he - like the people above and below - is another reason why the people that now attend Horizon, attend. Tad and First Baptist Bentonville's youth brought tremendous resources to help get Horizon off the ground. They first brought about 80 kids and sponsors, loaded up two buses full, and handed out 10,000 Horizon brochures to all of the people in Owings Mills. They gave us the money to produce this piece which Clay so skillfully made and with it, we had over 635 people register for our very first block party. From this event came a couple, Nik and Krem, that were of Indian descent. They had been having dreams about becoming Christians for two weeks. Then, they received a flyer about a block party from a Christian Church. They considered it a sign. They came not knowing what to expect. On the Sunday following, they came to Horizon. In two months, they both received Christ and became Christians and were our first to be baptized. Tad's group came out the following year as well... this time, we managed to produce a 16 page color magazine with incredible launching results. What compelled Tad and this church to do this? Mission.
Two anonymous givers in 2003:
Once during an announcement at Horizon in Owings Mills I asked if anyone knew someone that would like to give Horizon $10,000. There was an outburst of laughter. :) And to this I explained that I wasn't kidding. Horizon was about to risk it and start a new work in Towson, and though we had enough get some things, we were not really able to purchase everything we needed. And on top of all of that, there was an issue of cash flow. Though we had the money for some things, we could not spend it because we needed the cash flow to remain strong in order to avoid bounced checks.
The very following Sunday, there was a gift for the amount of $10,000! After services, I was told by someone in the church (that will remain nameless) that he wanted to meet with me the next day. We met in the food court of the Owings Mills Mall and he proceeded to tell me how when I shared that request two Sundays prior that he really sensed that God was telling him to give the $10,000. I said, "Surely you heard the announcement; we received the check yesterday." He explained that he did, but that didn't release him from that calling. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a check for $10,000! That was $20,000 raised in 8 days, and double what was asked. Later that week, Tad (mentioned above) managed to give the amount needed for us to get a quality projector. SO... every dollar we needed for beginning Towson was raised in 8 days from people of mission. Amazing.
A man named Phil:
I won't mention his full name because he would never want me to share it. Again, only a handful know of him. But even if they don't, they will remember the incredible color magazine that Andrea Battaglia made for Towson's launch. Guess who enabled us to do this? Phil. Not only that, but last year the BCM/D that sends funds towards our salary phased out all of the catalyst church planters, of which I am one. I needed to raise $22,500 -- namely because Horizon was not yet ready to take on that much of a load as they do now. Phil and I met for coffee. He explained that he and his wife had heard of our need, and he said that they wanted to pay the difference. Can you believe it? And frankly this is only a fraction of the ways he and his wife have blessed Horizon... but I am seeing that I am writing a book here. Phil and his wife are people devoted to seeing the mission fulfilled... to seeing people that have yet to hear of the Good News of Jesus have that chance. They give generously.
Over 40,000 churches:
As a Southern Baptist church plant, one thing that many of us do not realize at Horizon is that we are indebted to about 16 million people that attend 40,000 churches. Why? Because these 40,000 churches believe in mission over relationship. They give to the Cooperative Program, which in turn gives resources to missions, training for missionaries, and to equip missionaries all over the world. Together, churches of all sizes -- from 11 people to 15,000 -- are able to be a part of something bigger than themselves: mission. In this endeavor every prayer and every cent is equal, the weak and the strong are equal when it comes to mission. Have we yet to learn what Jesus meant with the widow's mite? I think so...
It was humbling to know and realize when Kimme and I bought our first home in 2000 that we didn't really own it. It was owned by people all over the world that we didn't know that gave so that we might serve here in Maryland.
All of this is why I was so deeply saddened by Horizon's decision to divide resources, divide mission, and go our separate ways. The prevailing understanding at the time was the because we didn't have adequate relationships with one another, we could not share the load together. Instead, we decided to go from "all in" to 6% in. And even now it would seem that this has even changed. Guys... in 5 years Horizon will not be the same. Try even 1 year! The relationships will change. People move. People die. People come and go. And when we are not centered on what our mission is as a church, the relationships that come 5 years from now will not know about the mission that began 6 years ago: to begin a movement of church planting reaching from DC to Boston. Instead, they will have some good hang out time with some friends (which is awesome) but they may never know they are a part of a church meant to reach the NE for Jesus Christ. The people in Boston are waiting on us, they just don't know it yet. Will Horizon get there? I truly hope so! That's what I have labored for and that is what the people above (and many others) have given and prayed for.
I find that my greatest regret in all of our discussion last year about Horizon's future is that I didn't have the wisdom at the time to fully articulate the issue at hand. To be honest, I was a bit distracted at the time with other issues.. but unfortunately the issue was divided into what seemed two categories: relationships or money. And when something is painted like that, who would vote for money over relationship? That would sound extravagant, if that was really what the issues were about. Indeed, the REAL issue was (and is) between relationship and mission. Notice that in every case above about people Horizon didn't know that's impacted them greatly I mention money. Well, that's because each person followed the example of the early church: they sent resources toward people they didn't know to help accomplish the Great Commission. Money is not the focus, Mission is... but it's easy for us to see budgets and get confused about what the real issue is.
Jesus said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28.18-20
Does it take resources to make disciples? Baptize? To teach? No, it does not... Neither does it take websites, guitars, sound equipment, video projectors, Retros/Luaus, mass mailers, storage space, coffee, doughnuts, bagels, laptops, cameras, rental space, printers, ink, paper, or children's equipment... yet these are things that churches need. Is it any wonder why Paul made such a focus on giving towards missions? He did so because being on mission can provide the means to help a local church spend the time it needs to on building healthy relationships... that is, to make disciples. Missions also means sending the people that will make disciples... And hopefully, following the example given by people they do not know, these new disciples will be part of what God is doing outside their sphere of relationships and help others hear the Good News of Jesus Christ!
Well, I could write about this all day and night. It's what I have been thinking about and praying about both day and night for the past two years.
One viewpoint would suggest that our relationships should be our driving force. And to give credit where credit is due, this group is not opposed to mission by any means. In fact, this view point can in many ways champion mission... especially in that there is a focus on doing mission together with those you are close to... those one has a relationship with. This viewpoint is very present tense focused: what does it mean to be the church NOW. All of this makes perfect sense and there is good reasoning, even Biblical support for this perspective.
The other viewpoint (and the one that I am partial to) is that mission should be our driving force. This vantage point suggests that the spreading of the Good News of Jesus surpasses even our relationships. That is not to say that they are in conflict with one another, not by any means. But this ideas suggests that mission, the Great Commission, is why we the church exists. This view of things is very future focused: who will a part of the church THEN? This, too, has Biblical precedent... and for good reason.
Why is one above the other? Well, for one major reason (and a few lesser ones): Our relationships change... Our mission never changes...
Imagine if the early church defined the nature of their existence on who they knew or had relationship with? Would there be a church today if that was their perspective? I doubt it very much. No, instead, mission was the driving force above and beyond relationship. That is why the early church was able to send people, resources, and prayers to and for people they did not know. The people of Macedonia did not know, hang out, grab coffee, disciple, or lead anyone from the church in Jerusalem. Yet still they gave... why? Because there was a prevalent understanding among the early church on mission.
This is the primary difference between the church in Jerusalem and all the churches that followed. One focused on each other and it's own community, that being the church in Jerusalem. The others, from Antioch on, focused on mission... that is to say, those outside of their community. One model is never replicated again in Christendom (Jerusalem) and the other was multiplied over and over again (Antioch). One did not send resources or people regularly, the other did so as it their life depended on it.
Is mission done apart from relationship? Absolutely not! In fact, it was from the mission that relationships developed -- without people, missions cannot be done. Kimme and I came to Baltimore from New Orleans because God had called us there... it was being on mission that drove us here to a people we did not know. Christians from all over (that we had relationship with) gave of their time, resources, and prayer to see that this work was completed... many of these people are not known by Horizonites. Let me speak of a few:
Mrs. Barbara Beck.
She owned one of the first 20 stores that sold Apple Computers back in the early 80s. In fact, of the first 20, hers is the last one standing. What did she do? Well, she initially gave $10,000 to begin a video ministry at the church I was serving in back in 1997. From that came much of the video stuff we now do @ Horizon. It was because of Barbara Beck. Not only that, but she purchased at least one lap top for us, put money down toward another, and in 2000 gave Horizon the old Blue G3 desktop that to this day still produces a lot of our graphic art from Designer [Ted]. At least once a year I give Mrs. Beck a call to say thank you for her gift towards missions, because I know her gift keeps giving. She keeps paying it forward even to this day.
Paul Morrell, Jr.
Paul is the reason at least %25 of the people that come to Horizon (both Owings Mills and Towson) have ever come to visit on Sunday morning. Probably a handful of people know Paul, but for sure very little @ Horizon know his name. He is the artisan behind both versions of our SoulHorizon.com site, and one time Horizon even owned the domain kidhorizon.com to which he created that site as well. Paul gave of his time and also financial resources due to his desire to help a new church plant in Baltimore.
Tad Thompson:
Tad was once the youth minister for a church in Bentonville, Arkansas. I doubt that a handful actually know or remember his name, but he - like the people above and below - is another reason why the people that now attend Horizon, attend. Tad and First Baptist Bentonville's youth brought tremendous resources to help get Horizon off the ground. They first brought about 80 kids and sponsors, loaded up two buses full, and handed out 10,000 Horizon brochures to all of the people in Owings Mills. They gave us the money to produce this piece which Clay so skillfully made and with it, we had over 635 people register for our very first block party. From this event came a couple, Nik and Krem, that were of Indian descent. They had been having dreams about becoming Christians for two weeks. Then, they received a flyer about a block party from a Christian Church. They considered it a sign. They came not knowing what to expect. On the Sunday following, they came to Horizon. In two months, they both received Christ and became Christians and were our first to be baptized. Tad's group came out the following year as well... this time, we managed to produce a 16 page color magazine with incredible launching results. What compelled Tad and this church to do this? Mission.
Two anonymous givers in 2003:
Once during an announcement at Horizon in Owings Mills I asked if anyone knew someone that would like to give Horizon $10,000. There was an outburst of laughter. :) And to this I explained that I wasn't kidding. Horizon was about to risk it and start a new work in Towson, and though we had enough get some things, we were not really able to purchase everything we needed. And on top of all of that, there was an issue of cash flow. Though we had the money for some things, we could not spend it because we needed the cash flow to remain strong in order to avoid bounced checks.
The very following Sunday, there was a gift for the amount of $10,000! After services, I was told by someone in the church (that will remain nameless) that he wanted to meet with me the next day. We met in the food court of the Owings Mills Mall and he proceeded to tell me how when I shared that request two Sundays prior that he really sensed that God was telling him to give the $10,000. I said, "Surely you heard the announcement; we received the check yesterday." He explained that he did, but that didn't release him from that calling. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a check for $10,000! That was $20,000 raised in 8 days, and double what was asked. Later that week, Tad (mentioned above) managed to give the amount needed for us to get a quality projector. SO... every dollar we needed for beginning Towson was raised in 8 days from people of mission. Amazing.
A man named Phil:
I won't mention his full name because he would never want me to share it. Again, only a handful know of him. But even if they don't, they will remember the incredible color magazine that Andrea Battaglia made for Towson's launch. Guess who enabled us to do this? Phil. Not only that, but last year the BCM/D that sends funds towards our salary phased out all of the catalyst church planters, of which I am one. I needed to raise $22,500 -- namely because Horizon was not yet ready to take on that much of a load as they do now. Phil and I met for coffee. He explained that he and his wife had heard of our need, and he said that they wanted to pay the difference. Can you believe it? And frankly this is only a fraction of the ways he and his wife have blessed Horizon... but I am seeing that I am writing a book here. Phil and his wife are people devoted to seeing the mission fulfilled... to seeing people that have yet to hear of the Good News of Jesus have that chance. They give generously.
Over 40,000 churches:
As a Southern Baptist church plant, one thing that many of us do not realize at Horizon is that we are indebted to about 16 million people that attend 40,000 churches. Why? Because these 40,000 churches believe in mission over relationship. They give to the Cooperative Program, which in turn gives resources to missions, training for missionaries, and to equip missionaries all over the world. Together, churches of all sizes -- from 11 people to 15,000 -- are able to be a part of something bigger than themselves: mission. In this endeavor every prayer and every cent is equal, the weak and the strong are equal when it comes to mission. Have we yet to learn what Jesus meant with the widow's mite? I think so...
It was humbling to know and realize when Kimme and I bought our first home in 2000 that we didn't really own it. It was owned by people all over the world that we didn't know that gave so that we might serve here in Maryland.
All of this is why I was so deeply saddened by Horizon's decision to divide resources, divide mission, and go our separate ways. The prevailing understanding at the time was the because we didn't have adequate relationships with one another, we could not share the load together. Instead, we decided to go from "all in" to 6% in. And even now it would seem that this has even changed. Guys... in 5 years Horizon will not be the same. Try even 1 year! The relationships will change. People move. People die. People come and go. And when we are not centered on what our mission is as a church, the relationships that come 5 years from now will not know about the mission that began 6 years ago: to begin a movement of church planting reaching from DC to Boston. Instead, they will have some good hang out time with some friends (which is awesome) but they may never know they are a part of a church meant to reach the NE for Jesus Christ. The people in Boston are waiting on us, they just don't know it yet. Will Horizon get there? I truly hope so! That's what I have labored for and that is what the people above (and many others) have given and prayed for.
I find that my greatest regret in all of our discussion last year about Horizon's future is that I didn't have the wisdom at the time to fully articulate the issue at hand. To be honest, I was a bit distracted at the time with other issues.. but unfortunately the issue was divided into what seemed two categories: relationships or money. And when something is painted like that, who would vote for money over relationship? That would sound extravagant, if that was really what the issues were about. Indeed, the REAL issue was (and is) between relationship and mission. Notice that in every case above about people Horizon didn't know that's impacted them greatly I mention money. Well, that's because each person followed the example of the early church: they sent resources toward people they didn't know to help accomplish the Great Commission. Money is not the focus, Mission is... but it's easy for us to see budgets and get confused about what the real issue is.
Jesus said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28.18-20
Does it take resources to make disciples? Baptize? To teach? No, it does not... Neither does it take websites, guitars, sound equipment, video projectors, Retros/Luaus, mass mailers, storage space, coffee, doughnuts, bagels, laptops, cameras, rental space, printers, ink, paper, or children's equipment... yet these are things that churches need. Is it any wonder why Paul made such a focus on giving towards missions? He did so because being on mission can provide the means to help a local church spend the time it needs to on building healthy relationships... that is, to make disciples. Missions also means sending the people that will make disciples... And hopefully, following the example given by people they do not know, these new disciples will be part of what God is doing outside their sphere of relationships and help others hear the Good News of Jesus Christ!
Well, I could write about this all day and night. It's what I have been thinking about and praying about both day and night for the past two years.
7.04.2006
Most Beautiful
Sorry guys... just had to say it! I married the best woman in all the world for me... she is astoundingly beautiful. I love her soooo much. Is it normal to be this in love after 16 years together? 11 years of marriage? Man...
Thank you, God for your constant blessing to me in Kimme. She rocks my world, is my #1 supporter, she is my best friend, and the mother of my children. What a blessing! Thank you, Lord...
DCC
Thank you, God for your constant blessing to me in Kimme. She rocks my world, is my #1 supporter, she is my best friend, and the mother of my children. What a blessing! Thank you, Lord...
DCC
7.03.2006
Do you want a Revolution?
Whoop! Whoop!
:P
So... do ya? As our country celebrates another year of independence, I have been reflecting on the issues that led to our nation's birth from the tyrannies of the United Kingdom. It gets little notoriety when compared with the Civil War, but the topic of revolution was as much divisive at the time of our nation's birth as succession was in 1860. Brother fought against brother, Patriot against Loyalists to the king of England. And this division even meant the division of father and son. I had no idea until this year that one of the most prominent cases of this was with Benjamin Franklin and his son, William. William can be seen in many paintings along with Franklin while his father was conducting electrical experiments. Their bond was very close for many years... that is, until the King felt that he could tax the colonists without representation. Tensions began to mount between father and son, and their struggle was a public one. Both refused to bend and neither would listen to each other's reasoning. And the rest is history...
Every revolution has a cost, and generally the highest price comes in the form we least suspect.
Sorry this is so short... it's late. I'm tired. And though I had many profound things to say, I'll simply let the statement above speak for itself.
:P
So... do ya? As our country celebrates another year of independence, I have been reflecting on the issues that led to our nation's birth from the tyrannies of the United Kingdom. It gets little notoriety when compared with the Civil War, but the topic of revolution was as much divisive at the time of our nation's birth as succession was in 1860. Brother fought against brother, Patriot against Loyalists to the king of England. And this division even meant the division of father and son. I had no idea until this year that one of the most prominent cases of this was with Benjamin Franklin and his son, William. William can be seen in many paintings along with Franklin while his father was conducting electrical experiments. Their bond was very close for many years... that is, until the King felt that he could tax the colonists without representation. Tensions began to mount between father and son, and their struggle was a public one. Both refused to bend and neither would listen to each other's reasoning. And the rest is history...
Every revolution has a cost, and generally the highest price comes in the form we least suspect.
Sorry this is so short... it's late. I'm tired. And though I had many profound things to say, I'll simply let the statement above speak for itself.
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