Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Necessary Change

I have been reading the book "The Fly in the Ointment" by J. Russell Crabtree. There are a lot of great insights in this book as to why denominations are failing their churches and how to change that trend. It's a great read for anyone who desires to be a change agent.

One quote that really stuck out to me is this: "Every day that we resist necessary change closes a door of opportunity somewhere in the future." (see page 7). My first impulse was to agree, but then the word "necessary" really caught my eye. Change for change sake isn't spiritual nor is it satisfying. But what necessary changes do I have to make in my life to make sure I don't miss out on future opportunities? I have to be honest and answer that one. How about you? What necessary changes does my church have to make so as to have a positive impact in the days to come? For my church-leader friends, have you asked yourself that recently?

But here is the real rub: Am I really willing to change whatever necessarily needs to be changed? Ultimately the change has to start with the strategic change agent. That's me! That's you! What do you think?

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Launching New Journey!

Please celebrate with me the launch of a new church in Indiana North District! New Journey Community Church of Wabash, IN, had its first public service on February 7, 2010. Pastor Tom and Sarah Cochran are the dedicated church planters. They are assisted by Matt Cox. There were 123 people at their first service! Two people came to know Christ for the first time, and another person rededicated his life to Christ! Pastor Tom, Sarah, and Matt, thanks for your faithfulness and hard work. This is why we do what we do!
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Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Introducing Micah

This is Micah James Burmeister - the most handsome grandson on the planet! We are so proud of Adam and Sarah. Congratulations to the Burmeisters!
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Monday, February 1, 2010

Papa Dave

Exciting news! Our daughter Sarah and her husband Adam are the proud parents of Micah James Burmeister, born January 31, 2010. Micah weighs in at 8 pounds, 10 ounces, and he is 21 1/4 inches long. We are absolutely thrilled for the Burmeister's of Jamul, California! Of course, we are thrilled to be first-time grandparents! It looks like I'm going to be Papa Dave, but Stevie isn't too excited about the term "grandma." She's adopted the Spanish term for grandmother - abuela (I think I've spelled it right), but she prefers abuelita (which means young grandmother). And Rebekah and Jonathan are now aunt & uncle respectively!