We are getting ready to head to the Portland airport and return to our lives in Memphis. It's been a great two week adventure, and here are some of my highlights...
Weather - I hear that it’s going to be 100 degrees for the next few days in Memphis. That’s so sad. The weather here on the west coast was wonderful. Crisp and cool in the morning. Sunny but not too hot in the afternoons. And most of all, NO HUMIDITY!!!
Books - As someone who has purchased primarily kindle books over the past several years, I must say that after spending some time by myself at Powell’s last night, physical bookstores are great.
Food trucks - I look forward to living in a world where there are great food trucks in every city. Mandy isn’t quite as fond of food trucks as I am, so I shall pray for her.
Memphis - I know that Memphis has a bad reputation in many parts of our great country, but I have to say that there were times in Oakland and Portland where I was more cautious walking around than I am in Memphis. Case in point: yesterday we saw a man walking on the street, yelling and with a paper bag over his head. Never seen that in Memphis.
Friends - While in the bay area we got to catch up with friends. Grateful that even though years have passed and we're separated by 2000 miles, we can pick up like no time has past!
Walking - Mandy was tracking our miles walked. She said we walked around 60 miles over the two weeks. For Micah and his little legs, that’s got to be the equivalent of over 100, right! And speaking of mileage, Mandy says that we logged over 4000 miles of driving this summer. No wonder I’m tired of driving.
Creation - our family’s verse for our two week trip was Psalm 19:1 - "The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the work of His hands." We all memorized it while at Yosemite, and throughout the trip we recited it back to one another. During our time I was reminded that our God loves beauty. Whether it was the granite rising up thousands of feet into the sky at Yosemite, the canopy of Redwoods we saw driving to Mendocino, the ocean crashing against rocks as we curved above on Highway 1, looking up at the stars (and even a planet) from a meadow in Yosemite, or seeing Mt. Shasta and Mt. Hood peeking above the clouds as we drove on interstates, my response each time was one of awe and gratitude. This trip was so good for our souls.
Family - Finally, the four of us made some great memories that we’ll hopefully never forget. We laughed a lot. We rested (a bit). Mandy and I broke up the occasional fight between the boys, but for the most part they did great together. The boys got to experience culture in ways that they normally don't. I’m grateful that we could spend this time together!
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Saturday, December 27, 2014
2014 Top Ten Lists - Apps
There are a number of apps that I use on a daily, or at least weekly, basis. Here are the ones I rely on most (in no particular order).
1. Dropbox - I've been using Dropbox for several years. It serves as a cloud backup as well as a simple way to access files from all of my devices.
2. LastPass - I finally have a good handle on my passwords. I feel much more secure, and it's a breeze to use. It again syncs across all of my devices.
3. PDF Expert - This may well be my most important iPad app. I use it to write real estate contracts as well as when I teach at NC.
4. Nozbe - After trying out several task managers, this is the one I landed on. I'm currently using the free version. I have three "Projects" set up: Personal, Neighborhood Church, and Real Estate. Everything falls under one of those. From there I can note what type of list it is (email, meeting, phone call, etc) and then give it a due date. Syncs across all devices.
5. Evernote - I put a lot in Evernote - perhaps too much. My biggest challenge is to keep it organized by tagging it and putting it in the proper folders. Some of the ways I use evernote: recipes, real estate contacts, sermon brainstorming, blog posts, notes from phone conversations, kindle highlights, and travel itineraries.
6. Kindle - Sometimes I miss the feel of a paperback, but tradeoff is that I absolutely love having my entire collection of books on my iPad. The other thing that is amazing about the kindle is that I can access all of my highlights and notes. What I normally do after finishing up a book is to save all of the notes in Evernote. It's great for referencing later.
7. Zinio - This year I've been doing much of my magazine reading on my iPad. Subscriptions have come down in price, but the real game changer is that I just learned that I can borrow Zinio magazine issues for free from the library. I was already doing this with kindle and audio books.
8. Audible - I enjoy listening to books while I'm driving and when I'm doing chores around the house. The Audible iPhone app is great, and now that they are owned by Amazon, there is more integration between Kindle and Audible.
9. Feedly - I started using Feedly after Google discontinued Reader. I have several categories of blogs and websites that I read on a regular basis. It's simple to add new content, and it's once again syncs across all of my devices.
10. Pocket - Finally, there's Pocket. I love this app! When I come across an interesting article or blog post in Feedly, I save it to Pocket to read later. Within Pocket I can tag articles, which I use later for research.
1. Dropbox - I've been using Dropbox for several years. It serves as a cloud backup as well as a simple way to access files from all of my devices.
2. LastPass - I finally have a good handle on my passwords. I feel much more secure, and it's a breeze to use. It again syncs across all of my devices.
3. PDF Expert - This may well be my most important iPad app. I use it to write real estate contracts as well as when I teach at NC.
4. Nozbe - After trying out several task managers, this is the one I landed on. I'm currently using the free version. I have three "Projects" set up: Personal, Neighborhood Church, and Real Estate. Everything falls under one of those. From there I can note what type of list it is (email, meeting, phone call, etc) and then give it a due date. Syncs across all devices.
5. Evernote - I put a lot in Evernote - perhaps too much. My biggest challenge is to keep it organized by tagging it and putting it in the proper folders. Some of the ways I use evernote: recipes, real estate contacts, sermon brainstorming, blog posts, notes from phone conversations, kindle highlights, and travel itineraries.
6. Kindle - Sometimes I miss the feel of a paperback, but tradeoff is that I absolutely love having my entire collection of books on my iPad. The other thing that is amazing about the kindle is that I can access all of my highlights and notes. What I normally do after finishing up a book is to save all of the notes in Evernote. It's great for referencing later.
7. Zinio - This year I've been doing much of my magazine reading on my iPad. Subscriptions have come down in price, but the real game changer is that I just learned that I can borrow Zinio magazine issues for free from the library. I was already doing this with kindle and audio books.
8. Audible - I enjoy listening to books while I'm driving and when I'm doing chores around the house. The Audible iPhone app is great, and now that they are owned by Amazon, there is more integration between Kindle and Audible.
9. Feedly - I started using Feedly after Google discontinued Reader. I have several categories of blogs and websites that I read on a regular basis. It's simple to add new content, and it's once again syncs across all of my devices.
10. Pocket - Finally, there's Pocket. I love this app! When I come across an interesting article or blog post in Feedly, I save it to Pocket to read later. Within Pocket I can tag articles, which I use later for research.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
2014 Top Ten Lists - Books
Below are the best books I read during 2014. It was hard to choose, so I picked 12 (in no particular order). Two of the twelve were books I listened to. The other ten were read on my kindle app.
Money: Master the Game, by Tony Robbins
I have to confess that I haven't finished this 700 page beast of a book. I first heard the author interviewed on Tim Ferris' podcast (which I highly recommend). The book is pretty unconventional, but what is great is all of the interviews that Robbins conducted. He definitely did his homework. I've already made a couple of changes to our finances as a result of reading this book.
Free, by Mark and Lisa Scandrette
This is probably the best book on money that I've ever read, and the reason is that it's not simply a book about money but a book about values. Mark and Lisa share their story of the intentional decisions they've made that have enabled them to live life the way they wanted to live it.
Smart Money, Smart Kids, by Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze
After I finished college and moved to Nashville, I discovered Dave Ramsey's radio show. He was very influential on my early money decisions. Earlier this year I started listening to his show again. I heard about this book (written with his daughter) and decided to give it a shot. Very practical and informative.
The Trouble with Paris, by Mark Sayers
I will go ahead and say it: I will read any book that Mark Sayers writes. Two years ago I read The Road Trip that Changed the World. It was excellent. Sayers combines faith, culture, history, and literature in a way that I've never seen. This book is about consumerism and happiness.
Soul Keeping, by John Ortberg
I love John Ortberg's writing. I read The Life You've Always Wanted almost 15 years ago, and it continues to be very formative in my life. This book is focused on his relationship with Dallas Willard. It is, pun intended, good for the soul. Note that the kindle version of this book is only $2.99 right now. Go get it!
Sacred Roots, by Jon Tyson
This is a quick but insightful read on the importance of the Church today.
Making Sense of the Bible, by Adam Hamilton
These next three books were very helpful as I prepared for a teaching series this past spring on theology. I continue to work through some of the issues that Hamilton raised in this book. It's very thought-provoking.
Benefit of the Doubt, by Greg Boyd
This was a helpful book on why confidence rather than certainty is the goal when it comes to belief.
The Theology of Dallas Willard, by Gary Black
At times this book was pretty tedious, but I found it very insightful. Black here tries to compile all of Dallas Willard's teachings (books, talks, and even conversations) and distill a specific theology. Also written around the same time was A Dallas Willard Dictionary, by Elaine O'Rourke. It's a helpful little book as well.
The Accidental Anglican, by Todd Hunter
This was a quick read. I've been following Todd Hunter since my time in San Francisco. He has had quite the journey going from the Jesus Movement and the Vineyard Churches to now being an Anglican bishop!
Essentialism, by Gergory McKeown
A fellow pastor told me about this book a few months ago, and it has shaped me in some pretty incredible ways since then. After reading this book I started the process of determining the three primary things I bring to NC. Since that time I've been honing those things, seeking to stop doing other things, and taking our leadership team through the process. I still have a lot of work to do, but I believe the process will yield a ton of fruit.
Letters from a Skeptic, by Greg Boyd
I'll end with another that I've yet to finish. I just started listening to this book a couple of days ago. The book is a series of letters between Greg and his father about Christianity. So far, SO GOOD. Kindle version is currently only $2.51!
Money: Master the Game, by Tony Robbins
I have to confess that I haven't finished this 700 page beast of a book. I first heard the author interviewed on Tim Ferris' podcast (which I highly recommend). The book is pretty unconventional, but what is great is all of the interviews that Robbins conducted. He definitely did his homework. I've already made a couple of changes to our finances as a result of reading this book.
Free, by Mark and Lisa Scandrette
This is probably the best book on money that I've ever read, and the reason is that it's not simply a book about money but a book about values. Mark and Lisa share their story of the intentional decisions they've made that have enabled them to live life the way they wanted to live it.
Smart Money, Smart Kids, by Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze
After I finished college and moved to Nashville, I discovered Dave Ramsey's radio show. He was very influential on my early money decisions. Earlier this year I started listening to his show again. I heard about this book (written with his daughter) and decided to give it a shot. Very practical and informative.
The Trouble with Paris, by Mark Sayers
I will go ahead and say it: I will read any book that Mark Sayers writes. Two years ago I read The Road Trip that Changed the World. It was excellent. Sayers combines faith, culture, history, and literature in a way that I've never seen. This book is about consumerism and happiness.
Soul Keeping, by John Ortberg
I love John Ortberg's writing. I read The Life You've Always Wanted almost 15 years ago, and it continues to be very formative in my life. This book is focused on his relationship with Dallas Willard. It is, pun intended, good for the soul. Note that the kindle version of this book is only $2.99 right now. Go get it!
Sacred Roots, by Jon Tyson
This is a quick but insightful read on the importance of the Church today.
Making Sense of the Bible, by Adam Hamilton
These next three books were very helpful as I prepared for a teaching series this past spring on theology. I continue to work through some of the issues that Hamilton raised in this book. It's very thought-provoking.
Benefit of the Doubt, by Greg Boyd
This was a helpful book on why confidence rather than certainty is the goal when it comes to belief.
The Theology of Dallas Willard, by Gary Black
At times this book was pretty tedious, but I found it very insightful. Black here tries to compile all of Dallas Willard's teachings (books, talks, and even conversations) and distill a specific theology. Also written around the same time was A Dallas Willard Dictionary, by Elaine O'Rourke. It's a helpful little book as well.
The Accidental Anglican, by Todd Hunter
This was a quick read. I've been following Todd Hunter since my time in San Francisco. He has had quite the journey going from the Jesus Movement and the Vineyard Churches to now being an Anglican bishop!
Essentialism, by Gergory McKeown
A fellow pastor told me about this book a few months ago, and it has shaped me in some pretty incredible ways since then. After reading this book I started the process of determining the three primary things I bring to NC. Since that time I've been honing those things, seeking to stop doing other things, and taking our leadership team through the process. I still have a lot of work to do, but I believe the process will yield a ton of fruit.
Letters from a Skeptic, by Greg Boyd
I'll end with another that I've yet to finish. I just started listening to this book a couple of days ago. The book is a series of letters between Greg and his father about Christianity. So far, SO GOOD. Kindle version is currently only $2.51!
Friday, December 19, 2014
2014 Top Ten Lists - Music
Last year was the first time since 2007 that I failed to do my annual top 10 lists. So, even though my blog posts are now few and far between, I thought I would renew this tradition. First up...Music (in no particular order)!
The Soundtrack to Inside Llewyn Davis
I still have not seen this movie, but I love the music. Here's the song "Fare Thee Well", from a documentary on the movie that I did see. It features Oscar Isaac, Marcus Mumford, and the Punch Brothers.
Snarky Puppy
First off, how can you not dig this band's name. Listening to their music is great. Watching a video like this is outstanding.
Punch Brothers
I would absolutely love to see these guys live. I can imagine that it would be quite the show.
Humming House
Discovered this band on Noisetrade. Fun, especially this track!
The Brilliance
Please tell me that you know about these musicians. This is my favorite song.
Once: The Musical
Mandy and I went to see this at the Orpheum. It was so good. This song, and particularly the end of the song, was one of those epic and moving musical experiences for me that doesn't happen everyday.
Peter Hollens acapella version of "Hallelujah"
Beautiful. Those chords!
Digital Age
We did this song at NC a few weeks ago. Already loved this song, but this version takes it to another level
Head and the Heart
I hate I was out of town when these guys came to Memphis. I don't like their second album as much as their first, but it's still great.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir
This is the fourth version of the Virtual Choir. Almost 6000 singers from across the world took part in this. The animation is a little weird in my opinion, but it's a pretty amazing showing of what you get when you combine art and technology.
The Soundtrack to Inside Llewyn Davis
I still have not seen this movie, but I love the music. Here's the song "Fare Thee Well", from a documentary on the movie that I did see. It features Oscar Isaac, Marcus Mumford, and the Punch Brothers.
Snarky Puppy
First off, how can you not dig this band's name. Listening to their music is great. Watching a video like this is outstanding.
Punch Brothers
I would absolutely love to see these guys live. I can imagine that it would be quite the show.
Humming House
Discovered this band on Noisetrade. Fun, especially this track!
The Brilliance
Please tell me that you know about these musicians. This is my favorite song.
Once: The Musical
Mandy and I went to see this at the Orpheum. It was so good. This song, and particularly the end of the song, was one of those epic and moving musical experiences for me that doesn't happen everyday.
Peter Hollens acapella version of "Hallelujah"
Beautiful. Those chords!
Digital Age
We did this song at NC a few weeks ago. Already loved this song, but this version takes it to another level
Head and the Heart
I hate I was out of town when these guys came to Memphis. I don't like their second album as much as their first, but it's still great.
Eric Whitacre's Virtual Choir
This is the fourth version of the Virtual Choir. Almost 6000 singers from across the world took part in this. The animation is a little weird in my opinion, but it's a pretty amazing showing of what you get when you combine art and technology.
Saturday, March 01, 2014
Memphis Real Estate
Two days ago The Commercial Appeal released an article titled, "Memphis to Lead Nation for Rise in Home Prices." (Note that the article is only available to paid subscribers). It references a report by the Demand Institute. The most interesting part about their research, at least for us Memphians, is that they are predicting a 33% growth in the housing market between 2012 and 2018 (see page 18 of the report). We're actually tied with Tampa, FL for #1.
As a home owner and a real estate agent, this is pretty exciting. Here's what it means. If they're correct, a house purchased in 2012 for $118,000 (the average price for a in house in Memphis last year) could possibly be worth $157,000 in 2018. Or, using the same math, a house purchased in 2012 for $200,000 could possibly be worth $266,000! How's that for a return!
I've always felt great about Memphis real estate, and it's one of the reasons I'm both a real estate investor and agent. Eight years ago we moved from the San Francisco Bay Area to Midtown Memphis. In 2004/2005 we were trying to buy in the Bay Area. In hindsight I am so grateful that we didn't. The house we rented at the time was worth over $400,000. It was 1000 square feet and had two bedrooms and 1 bathroom. It was in San Leandro, a small community outside of Oakland.
In a good Memphis neighborhood such as Cooper-Young, I can rent a $100,000 home for around $1000/month. Using that math, the home we rented in San Leandro should have been $4000/month. It wasn't. It was $1450/month. When I did the math, I realized that it was an incredible deal to rent in the bay area, and it was just as much an incredible deal to buy in Memphis. So since we had been saving money towards a down payment and weren't going to be buying there, we decided to buy investment properties in Tipton County, where I grew up. And that began my real estate adventure!
I'll continue to buy here, and more important, I'll continue to help others buy. If you are looking to buy a home to live in or as an investment, I'd love to help. You can email me at robertgrisham@gmail.com.
As a side note, the other interesting aspect of their research is this: of the 2,200 cities they analyzed, they discovered that the wealthiest 10% own 52% of the total housing wealth ($4.4 trillion), while the bottom 40% own just 8% of the housing wealth ($700 billion). I don't guess this should surprise us, but seeing the numbers like this is pretty interesting.
As a home owner and a real estate agent, this is pretty exciting. Here's what it means. If they're correct, a house purchased in 2012 for $118,000 (the average price for a in house in Memphis last year) could possibly be worth $157,000 in 2018. Or, using the same math, a house purchased in 2012 for $200,000 could possibly be worth $266,000! How's that for a return!
I've always felt great about Memphis real estate, and it's one of the reasons I'm both a real estate investor and agent. Eight years ago we moved from the San Francisco Bay Area to Midtown Memphis. In 2004/2005 we were trying to buy in the Bay Area. In hindsight I am so grateful that we didn't. The house we rented at the time was worth over $400,000. It was 1000 square feet and had two bedrooms and 1 bathroom. It was in San Leandro, a small community outside of Oakland.
In a good Memphis neighborhood such as Cooper-Young, I can rent a $100,000 home for around $1000/month. Using that math, the home we rented in San Leandro should have been $4000/month. It wasn't. It was $1450/month. When I did the math, I realized that it was an incredible deal to rent in the bay area, and it was just as much an incredible deal to buy in Memphis. So since we had been saving money towards a down payment and weren't going to be buying there, we decided to buy investment properties in Tipton County, where I grew up. And that began my real estate adventure!
I'll continue to buy here, and more important, I'll continue to help others buy. If you are looking to buy a home to live in or as an investment, I'd love to help. You can email me at robertgrisham@gmail.com.
As a side note, the other interesting aspect of their research is this: of the 2,200 cities they analyzed, they discovered that the wealthiest 10% own 52% of the total housing wealth ($4.4 trillion), while the bottom 40% own just 8% of the housing wealth ($700 billion). I don't guess this should surprise us, but seeing the numbers like this is pretty interesting.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
God Believes in Love
Over the last few days I had the opportunity to watch a conversation between Gabe Lyons and Gene Robinson on the issues of the LGBT community and God. I say the word "conversation" very intentionally, as I was blown away by the respect that these two men had for one another. In most cases these types of things are debates, and what unfortunately happens in most debates is that the two parties speak at one another rather than to one another, and true listening and empathy are rare. I felt that these two men were honest with their beliefs, both in the things they feel solid about as well as the areas in which there are still questions, and I was so encouraged as they both sought common ground and a way forward, which is so key in an issue that has caused this much hurt and division. No matter what you think about this issue, you owe it to yourself to take some time and watch this.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Sabbatical Reading List Part 2
I've enjoyed having extra time for reading during my sabbatical. Here are the books that I've been reading these last few weeks...
1. Love Does, by Bob Goff - Mandy read this book a few months ago and shared with me some of the extraordinary stories that he tells. I have to admit that as I heard and then read them, I was a bit skeptical. So I decided that one of my prayers during sabbatical was that I would grow young; in other words, I would recapture faith and be less of a cynic. I must say that this book has both challenged and helped that prayer.
2. Sensing Jesus, by Zack Eswine - This is a beautiful and challenging book. It has given me the desire to live a slower life in which I experience life the way Jesus experienced life. It exposes over and over again the discrepancies between our view of greatness and God's.
3. Daring Greatly, by Brene Brown - Her talk at the Willow Creek Leadership Summit was outstanding. The call towards vulnerability, shame resilience, and wholeheartedness, though challenging (a theme with these books it seems), are timely and critical. Mandy is currently listening to her previous book, The Gifts of Imperfections. I'm looking forward to that one as well.
4. Straight Flush, by Ben Mezrich - I'm a sucker for his books. The movies The Social Network and 21 were based off of two of his previous books.
5. Dad is Fat, by Jim Gaffigan - This is the hilarious book by the comedian who lives with his wife and FIVE young children in a 2-bedroom apartment.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Sabbatical Reflections
I am two weeks into my 2-month sabbatical. For background, here's a post that Meredith Pace, one of our Leadership Team members, wrote a couple of months ago, and here's a post I wrote sharing with our church my heart and plans for this sabbatical.
So far the sabbatical has been marked by travel. We started out with our second annual micro church trip to the water park, with a stop at Heifer Village on the way. Two days later the four of us headed east. We stopped overnight in Atlanta, staying with my Uncle Jack and Aunt Marlene. Then we drove to Uncle Bruce and Aunt Ginger's Marsh House just a little outside Savannah. We spent one night there, then two nights at their home in Savannah.
Then we headed to Tybee Island. It's been a very restful trip so far, and we have two full days left. Our condo is not completely ocean-front, but it will do. Here's the view from our balcony.
We've spent most of our time at the pool or on the beach. The first few days were cooler and windy, which made the waves a bit rough for the boys, but which also made the evenings on the balcony amazing. We've also eaten a lot of seafood, which is always a good thing. I introduced the boys to crab legs the other night. They both loved it.
Yesterday we spent the day on Bruce and Ginger's sailboat. The boys went fishing and Micah caught two sharks.
On Saturday we begin our drive back home. We'll be spending the night in Atlanta, and arriving in Memphis on Sunday afternoon.
So far the sabbatical has been marked by travel. We started out with our second annual micro church trip to the water park, with a stop at Heifer Village on the way. Two days later the four of us headed east. We stopped overnight in Atlanta, staying with my Uncle Jack and Aunt Marlene. Then we drove to Uncle Bruce and Aunt Ginger's Marsh House just a little outside Savannah. We spent one night there, then two nights at their home in Savannah.
Then we headed to Tybee Island. It's been a very restful trip so far, and we have two full days left. Our condo is not completely ocean-front, but it will do. Here's the view from our balcony.
We've spent most of our time at the pool or on the beach. The first few days were cooler and windy, which made the waves a bit rough for the boys, but which also made the evenings on the balcony amazing. We've also eaten a lot of seafood, which is always a good thing. I introduced the boys to crab legs the other night. They both loved it.
Yesterday we spent the day on Bruce and Ginger's sailboat. The boys went fishing and Micah caught two sharks.
On Saturday we begin our drive back home. We'll be spending the night in Atlanta, and arriving in Memphis on Sunday afternoon.
Sabbatical Reading List Part 1
One of my goals during my sabbatical is to read a lot. Most of the time I am producing and pouring out. During this sabbatical I am resting, which means no producing or pouring out. Instead, I am receiving and being poured into. One of the ways I'm doing this is through reading.
During this first month I've decided to limit my reading to the Bible, novels, history, and parenting resources. So here's what I've been reading.
1. The Epistles (Letters) in the New Testament
I bought a new NIV Bible right before my sabbatical started, and I'm using this chronology I put together for our series on Acts a few years ago. I'm currently in 2 Corinthians.
2. 1776, by David McCullough
I'm just a third of the way through it, but so far it's a fascinating read. Some that I remember from school, but lots that I didn't know. I love reading about George Washington. Such a great leader. And I've enjoyed Henry Knox's story, especially the capturing and transporting of the guns from Fort Ticonderoga. Fascinating.
3. Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys, by Stephen James and David Thomas
This one has been on my Kindle shelf for awhile. So glad I'm reading it now. If you have boys, you need to read this. The authors utilize the themes from Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are to show the progress of a boy's life. There's also a ton of practical advice for raising boys.
4. The Hit, by David Baldacci
I love David Baldacci and have read most of what he's written. This one was a great read.
5. Inferno, by Dan Brown
I checked out the kindle version from the library before my sabbatical but didn't finish it, so I then checked out the audio version and am listening to it as well. This is the fourth book in the Robert Langdon series (The Da Vinci Code)
As I begin to move into the second half of my sabbatical, I'll be shifting gears to spiritual formation, leadership, and ministry/mission.
During this first month I've decided to limit my reading to the Bible, novels, history, and parenting resources. So here's what I've been reading.
1. The Epistles (Letters) in the New Testament
I bought a new NIV Bible right before my sabbatical started, and I'm using this chronology I put together for our series on Acts a few years ago. I'm currently in 2 Corinthians.
2. 1776, by David McCullough
I'm just a third of the way through it, but so far it's a fascinating read. Some that I remember from school, but lots that I didn't know. I love reading about George Washington. Such a great leader. And I've enjoyed Henry Knox's story, especially the capturing and transporting of the guns from Fort Ticonderoga. Fascinating.
3. Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys, by Stephen James and David Thomas
This one has been on my Kindle shelf for awhile. So glad I'm reading it now. If you have boys, you need to read this. The authors utilize the themes from Maurice Sendak's Where the Wild Things Are to show the progress of a boy's life. There's also a ton of practical advice for raising boys.
4. The Hit, by David Baldacci
I love David Baldacci and have read most of what he's written. This one was a great read.
5. Inferno, by Dan Brown
I checked out the kindle version from the library before my sabbatical but didn't finish it, so I then checked out the audio version and am listening to it as well. This is the fourth book in the Robert Langdon series (The Da Vinci Code)
As I begin to move into the second half of my sabbatical, I'll be shifting gears to spiritual formation, leadership, and ministry/mission.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Rest
Over the past few months I've been developing a new habit. It's not perfect, but it's been accomplishing its purposes. The habit is rest, and more specifically, it's what the Bible refers to as Sabbath. For these past few months I've been taking off on Wednesday mornings. From Tuesday evening until around noon on Wednesday, I don't produce anything. I might have to take a phone call or respond to an email every now and then, but I'm pretty much tech free. I read, I exercise, I pray, I take a walk. When Mandy is able to Sabbath with me, she sleeps in a bit, and we either do breakfast or lunch together and actually have time for healthy conversation.
I find that it's a time to regain perspective. What do I mean by that? Well, I often forget that God wants to direct my steps and take care of me. I so often believe the lie that if I don't produce, it won't happen. Rest goes to battle against that lie. I also find that it's a time for God to renew my spirit and refresh my dreams. Almost every Wednesday I come away with one or two big ideas, and the amazing thing is that I wasn't trying to produce a big idea. It just comes because my heart is at rest.
I've always heard that Sabbath rest is a gift, and I'm starting to really understand this. When Tuesday rolls around I start looking forward to my morning. As I said at the start, I haven't perfected the art of rest, but the fruit that has come from it has been so good. I'm very thankful for that!
I find that it's a time to regain perspective. What do I mean by that? Well, I often forget that God wants to direct my steps and take care of me. I so often believe the lie that if I don't produce, it won't happen. Rest goes to battle against that lie. I also find that it's a time for God to renew my spirit and refresh my dreams. Almost every Wednesday I come away with one or two big ideas, and the amazing thing is that I wasn't trying to produce a big idea. It just comes because my heart is at rest.
I've always heard that Sabbath rest is a gift, and I'm starting to really understand this. When Tuesday rolls around I start looking forward to my morning. As I said at the start, I haven't perfected the art of rest, but the fruit that has come from it has been so good. I'm very thankful for that!
Saturday, March 09, 2013
NC Series on 1 Corinthians
A few weeks ago I began new teaching series on Paul's first letter to the church in Corinth. Every year I try to teach one long series. Last year it was a series on Jesus; the year before on Ephesians. This year's series will stretch close to five months.
A lot goes into preparing for a series like this. I've been in prep mode for the last six months. What does prep mode look like for a series like this?
First, I've read 1 Corinthians many times. And as I've read, I've thought not only about what God said to the church in Corinth, but about what he wants to say to our church. In a lot of ways we're very different than the church in Corinth, separated by time & culture in big ways. But in a lot of other ways this church is our sister. So not only have I read this letter; I've also prayed it.
Second, I've taken notes as I read. I sometimes do this on my computer, but this time I used a spiral bound notebook. I went chapter by chapter, noting observations, questions, words that needed further study, etc. That in-depth study then helped me discern how to break up the letter for our series. If you want to know more about how I've broken it up, you can read an intro paper I wrote. You can also see the Sunday night schedule here.
Third, I've read a lot of commentaries. Some of my favorites have been by Gordon Fee, Anthony Thiselton, Richard Hays, Craig Blomberg, and Ben Witherington (not a commentary but very helpful).
Fourth, I've listened to sermons from other pastors and teachers. My favorites have been from Trinity Grace, Soma, & Imago Dei.
Through all of this I've continued to internalize this letter, and as I've done that the teaching has been flowing out, not only in sermons but in discipleship and coaching. I'm grateful that God continues to speak through such an ancient book, and I'm grateful for how He's going to work in our church this year through it.
A lot goes into preparing for a series like this. I've been in prep mode for the last six months. What does prep mode look like for a series like this?
First, I've read 1 Corinthians many times. And as I've read, I've thought not only about what God said to the church in Corinth, but about what he wants to say to our church. In a lot of ways we're very different than the church in Corinth, separated by time & culture in big ways. But in a lot of other ways this church is our sister. So not only have I read this letter; I've also prayed it.
Second, I've taken notes as I read. I sometimes do this on my computer, but this time I used a spiral bound notebook. I went chapter by chapter, noting observations, questions, words that needed further study, etc. That in-depth study then helped me discern how to break up the letter for our series. If you want to know more about how I've broken it up, you can read an intro paper I wrote. You can also see the Sunday night schedule here.
Third, I've read a lot of commentaries. Some of my favorites have been by Gordon Fee, Anthony Thiselton, Richard Hays, Craig Blomberg, and Ben Witherington (not a commentary but very helpful).
Fourth, I've listened to sermons from other pastors and teachers. My favorites have been from Trinity Grace, Soma, & Imago Dei.
Through all of this I've continued to internalize this letter, and as I've done that the teaching has been flowing out, not only in sermons but in discipleship and coaching. I'm grateful that God continues to speak through such an ancient book, and I'm grateful for how He's going to work in our church this year through it.
Friday, January 25, 2013
The Emotionally Healthy Church Planter
I read a great book this week. Two great things about it: it's short, and it's free!
It's called The Emotionally Healthy Church Planter, but don't let those last two words throw you. You could insert any profession into this and the book would be beneficial. The e-book is by Pete Scazzero, and it's based off his books Emotionally Healthy Spirituality and The Emotionally Healthy Church.
Listen to what he says here, and again, insert what you do in place of church planting. This is more a symptom of our overall culture than anything else.
Doesn't that make you feel tired just reading it!
In this book Scazzero makes the case that emotional health cannot be separated from spiritual maturity. He talks about how we cultivate a relationship with God, what it looks like to really rest, what a rule of life looks like, and how our interior lives impact our marriages and our leadership.
I highly recommend this ebook. You can download the kindle, mobi or pdf version here.
It's called The Emotionally Healthy Church Planter, but don't let those last two words throw you. You could insert any profession into this and the book would be beneficial. The e-book is by Pete Scazzero, and it's based off his books Emotionally Healthy Spirituality and The Emotionally Healthy Church.
Listen to what he says here, and again, insert what you do in place of church planting. This is more a symptom of our overall culture than anything else.
Church planting can be like an addiction—only it is not an addiction to drugs or alcohol, but to activity and doing.
Our bodies cannot seem to physiologically get off the adrenaline rush in order to slow down. We battle to make the best use of every spare minute we have. We fear how things might fall apart if we slow down or stop, so we just keep going. We end our days exhausted from the endless demands being placed on us. We know we need to rest and recharge, but who has time for that when the church plant is hanging by a thread? Soon even our “free time” becomes filled with demands as we try to squeeze more “doing” into an already overburdened life.
Doesn't that make you feel tired just reading it!
In this book Scazzero makes the case that emotional health cannot be separated from spiritual maturity. He talks about how we cultivate a relationship with God, what it looks like to really rest, what a rule of life looks like, and how our interior lives impact our marriages and our leadership.
I highly recommend this ebook. You can download the kindle, mobi or pdf version here.
Monday, January 21, 2013
NC DNA
Mandy and I have written some posts on the NC Blog about the history and DNA of Neighborhood Church.
How This All Began
Our Current Reality
Our Posture
Dreaming of What Could Be
How This All Began
Our Current Reality
Our Posture
Dreaming of What Could Be
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Two Tales of Redemption
As I wrote a few days ago, Mandy and I went to see Les Miserables and loved it. Neither of us have ever read the book, but we've both seen the stage version several times, and it's always been one of our favorite musicals. Watching the movie made the story come together even more for me, though. Particularly through the theme of redemption.
Redemption is a key theme in Jean Valjean's life. He, like many others in that day, was dealt a difficult lot in life. What got him arrested was stealing food to feed his nephew. Not much of a crime, yet it put him in prison for 19 years. Once he was let out of prison, he still wasn't a free man, and because of his "yellow ticket-of-leave" he would always be marked and would never have much of a life. After trying to get a job and continually being denied, he stumbled upon a church and was given food and a bed for the night. The film does a great job showing the turmoil going on inside Valjean's mind. He is grateful for the charity, but knows it can't last. He makes the decision to steal from those who have taken him in.
Valjean doesn't get very far before he's arrested and taken back to the church. The bishop, though, does something surprising and frankly unthinkable, at least in Valjean's eyes. He tells the police that he had given those pieces of silver to "his guest," but he had actually forgotten to take all of them. After the police leave, the bishop looks into Valjean's eyes (and heart), tells him to use these things to start a new life, and tells him that God has redeemed him.
It was this act of love that set Valjean free to be the man that God had created him to be. Valjean understood the weight of his sin. He received the gift of grace and forgiveness, and he was changed. Instead of looking out for number one the rest of his life, he sought to do good and to pass this grace on to others.
This is a beautiful tale of redemption, but it's not the only tale in this story. The second one occurs many years later. It's the story of Inspector Javert, who has been chasing Valjean all of these years.
At the barricades, towards the end of the story, Javert is captured and Valjean has an opportunity to kill him. Years ago, he wouldn't have thought twice. But he's a different man now. He holds his knife up to Javert, but instead of killing him he cuts his ropes and tells him to leave. Javert assumes that Valjean has struck some kind of deal, but then he realizes that he hasn't. Valjean, the man he pledged his life to find, is offering him mercy, and he has no idea what to do with it. Javert tragically chooses to end his life rather than receive mercy from his enemy.
Before watching the movie I had never noticed that the melody that is used as the songs for both of their reflections after being offered mercy is the same. Same beautiful melody, but polar opposite reflections. Valjean, the sinner, receives the free gift of mercy and grace with humility, and he goes on to live a beautiful life of freedom and generosity. Javert, on the other hand, who happens to be known as a man of the law, cannot receive this free gift because of his pride. Whereas these two enemies could have become brothers due to experiencing the same type of grace, Javert couldn't do it. Javert would rather die than receive grace from a thief.
Each of us has been offered redemption, no doubt in many ways but especially by God. What will we do with that redemption? Receive it with humility or reject it because of our pride?
Redemption is a key theme in Jean Valjean's life. He, like many others in that day, was dealt a difficult lot in life. What got him arrested was stealing food to feed his nephew. Not much of a crime, yet it put him in prison for 19 years. Once he was let out of prison, he still wasn't a free man, and because of his "yellow ticket-of-leave" he would always be marked and would never have much of a life. After trying to get a job and continually being denied, he stumbled upon a church and was given food and a bed for the night. The film does a great job showing the turmoil going on inside Valjean's mind. He is grateful for the charity, but knows it can't last. He makes the decision to steal from those who have taken him in.
Valjean doesn't get very far before he's arrested and taken back to the church. The bishop, though, does something surprising and frankly unthinkable, at least in Valjean's eyes. He tells the police that he had given those pieces of silver to "his guest," but he had actually forgotten to take all of them. After the police leave, the bishop looks into Valjean's eyes (and heart), tells him to use these things to start a new life, and tells him that God has redeemed him.
It was this act of love that set Valjean free to be the man that God had created him to be. Valjean understood the weight of his sin. He received the gift of grace and forgiveness, and he was changed. Instead of looking out for number one the rest of his life, he sought to do good and to pass this grace on to others.
This is a beautiful tale of redemption, but it's not the only tale in this story. The second one occurs many years later. It's the story of Inspector Javert, who has been chasing Valjean all of these years.
At the barricades, towards the end of the story, Javert is captured and Valjean has an opportunity to kill him. Years ago, he wouldn't have thought twice. But he's a different man now. He holds his knife up to Javert, but instead of killing him he cuts his ropes and tells him to leave. Javert assumes that Valjean has struck some kind of deal, but then he realizes that he hasn't. Valjean, the man he pledged his life to find, is offering him mercy, and he has no idea what to do with it. Javert tragically chooses to end his life rather than receive mercy from his enemy.
Before watching the movie I had never noticed that the melody that is used as the songs for both of their reflections after being offered mercy is the same. Same beautiful melody, but polar opposite reflections. Valjean, the sinner, receives the free gift of mercy and grace with humility, and he goes on to live a beautiful life of freedom and generosity. Javert, on the other hand, who happens to be known as a man of the law, cannot receive this free gift because of his pride. Whereas these two enemies could have become brothers due to experiencing the same type of grace, Javert couldn't do it. Javert would rather die than receive grace from a thief.
Each of us has been offered redemption, no doubt in many ways but especially by God. What will we do with that redemption? Receive it with humility or reject it because of our pride?
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
A New Kind of Journal
In the spirit of New Years' Resolutions, here's a new kind of journal that you might enjoy. Mandy and I both received one of these from Santa this year.
It's called a Journal 10+. Each page represents a day of the year, but it's that day for the current year plus the next ten. It's not meant for long journal entries as much as it is for brief daily recaps or thoughts. And the idea is that you're able to capture memories much better. I love the idea and am glad that Mandy and I will be doing it together.
You can order one here.
It's called a Journal 10+. Each page represents a day of the year, but it's that day for the current year plus the next ten. It's not meant for long journal entries as much as it is for brief daily recaps or thoughts. And the idea is that you're able to capture memories much better. I love the idea and am glad that Mandy and I will be doing it together.
You can order one here.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Les Miserables
Mandy and I saw Les Miserables last night. So, so good! Anne Hathaway should win an Oscar for her portrayal of Fantine. "I Dreamed a Dream" was about as moving and gut-wrenching as anything I've ever seen. Go see it, whether are a fan of Broadway or not.
Some Kindle Book Deals
Here are a few Kindle books that are currently on sale.
The End of Sexual Identity, by Jenna Williams Paris ($1.99)
Creature of the Word, by Matt Chandler ($5.99)
The Resolution for Men, by Stephen Kendrick ($4.99)
Grace for the Moment (children's book), by Max Lucado ($1.99)
What Jesus Started, by Steve Addison ($4.99)
The Parent Adventure, by Rodney & Selma Wilson ($2.99)
The Circle Maker, by Mark Batterson ($3.79)
Draw the Circle, by Mark Batterson ($3.79)
Moneyball, by Michael Lewis ($5.46)
Love Does, by Bob Goff ($1.99)
A Year of Biblical Womanhood, by Rachel Held Evans ($1.99)
Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young ($1.99)
Forgotten Ways Handbook, by Alan Hirsch ($1.99)
The Call of Jesus, by Derek Worthington ($4.99)
The End of Sexual Identity, by Jenna Williams Paris ($1.99)
Creature of the Word, by Matt Chandler ($5.99)
The Resolution for Men, by Stephen Kendrick ($4.99)
Grace for the Moment (children's book), by Max Lucado ($1.99)
What Jesus Started, by Steve Addison ($4.99)
The Parent Adventure, by Rodney & Selma Wilson ($2.99)
The Circle Maker, by Mark Batterson ($3.79)
Draw the Circle, by Mark Batterson ($3.79)
Moneyball, by Michael Lewis ($5.46)
Love Does, by Bob Goff ($1.99)
A Year of Biblical Womanhood, by Rachel Held Evans ($1.99)
Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young ($1.99)
Forgotten Ways Handbook, by Alan Hirsch ($1.99)
The Call of Jesus, by Derek Worthington ($4.99)
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
2012 Top Ten Lists: Moments
2012 was a great year. Here are my top 10 moments:
10. Joining the Memphis Men's Chorale. It's been 15 years since I sang in a choir. It was time. It's been a great outlet. It's very different from church work and real estate, it's allowed me to meet new friends, and it's given me the opportunity to use the gifts that God has given me.
9. Family moments, specifically Taylor's wedding and the birth of Olivia to Mandy's sister, Megan. It was an honor to officiate Taylor and Jim's wedding. It was a beautiful one, and I'm grateful that God has joined these two together. And I'm an uncle now, and to a sweet little girl no less!
8. The Clean Water party at the Brass Door a few weeks ago. Not only did the party raise close to $4000 towards the building of a well, but it was one of the more surreal moments I've experienced. I told NC the next night that we're doing a lot of things right now that I've dreamed of for a number of years, but I don't think I could have ever dreamed up what happened that night. Again, "surreal" is my word for that night!
7. My work - I'm now in my third year with InCity Realty. I really enjoy real estate. And I'm very grateful to be able to pastor Neighborhood Church. God has allowed me to do, as I said above, the things that I've been dreaming of for a long time. I wouldn't trade NC for any other church. I feel that this year we've solidified our vision and strategy. Our folks know what we're about and they're continuing to be released to do the work of God. Both of these jobs give me the flexibility I need, plus they continue to challenge and fulfill me.
6. Mandy's work - I am my wife's biggest fan. Her passion and tenacity for education reform continues to amaze me. I'm grateful that her work is fulfilling to her, but also that it doesn't dominate and keep her from her favorite profession: mom to Adam and Micah. I have a feeling that we'll look back in ten years and see that God used Mandy to bring amazing change to our city.
5. Adam & Micah's friendship - at 7 and 4 now, they are becoming friends. The age difference still plays a factor at times, but they really love each other and enjoy being with each other. Since school got out for winter break they've been with each other non-stop. Last Friday Adam went to an art class and Micah went to my mom's. They were so excited to see each other when they reunited. For a humorous take on that friendship you can read this.
4. Trip to New York City - What a fun trip! It was a first for both of us. Like many others, it's now one of our favorite cities. We're planning on going back next fall. The conference we went to was amazing.
3. The Midtown Prayer Collective - I've written about this before, so I won't repeat myself, but I do feel that God is going to use this time, and the times ahead, to do great work in individual lives, in our churches, and in our city.
2. Our California Adventure - Two weeks in California was so much fun for our family. Time with the Currier's in Pasadena, a day at Disney Land, and then a full week in San Francisco was so good for all of us.
1. Adam's baptism - Again, I've written about this here, but leading Adam to Christ and then baptizing him a couple of months later was the highlight of my year. I'm so grateful for what God is doing in his heart.
2012 was one of the best for our family. As we celebrate the birth of Christ today and look forward to the start of a new year, we leave you with our annual video.
Merry Christmas!
2012 Christmas Video from MANDY GRISHAM on Vimeo.
10. Joining the Memphis Men's Chorale. It's been 15 years since I sang in a choir. It was time. It's been a great outlet. It's very different from church work and real estate, it's allowed me to meet new friends, and it's given me the opportunity to use the gifts that God has given me.
9. Family moments, specifically Taylor's wedding and the birth of Olivia to Mandy's sister, Megan. It was an honor to officiate Taylor and Jim's wedding. It was a beautiful one, and I'm grateful that God has joined these two together. And I'm an uncle now, and to a sweet little girl no less!
8. The Clean Water party at the Brass Door a few weeks ago. Not only did the party raise close to $4000 towards the building of a well, but it was one of the more surreal moments I've experienced. I told NC the next night that we're doing a lot of things right now that I've dreamed of for a number of years, but I don't think I could have ever dreamed up what happened that night. Again, "surreal" is my word for that night!
7. My work - I'm now in my third year with InCity Realty. I really enjoy real estate. And I'm very grateful to be able to pastor Neighborhood Church. God has allowed me to do, as I said above, the things that I've been dreaming of for a long time. I wouldn't trade NC for any other church. I feel that this year we've solidified our vision and strategy. Our folks know what we're about and they're continuing to be released to do the work of God. Both of these jobs give me the flexibility I need, plus they continue to challenge and fulfill me.
6. Mandy's work - I am my wife's biggest fan. Her passion and tenacity for education reform continues to amaze me. I'm grateful that her work is fulfilling to her, but also that it doesn't dominate and keep her from her favorite profession: mom to Adam and Micah. I have a feeling that we'll look back in ten years and see that God used Mandy to bring amazing change to our city.
5. Adam & Micah's friendship - at 7 and 4 now, they are becoming friends. The age difference still plays a factor at times, but they really love each other and enjoy being with each other. Since school got out for winter break they've been with each other non-stop. Last Friday Adam went to an art class and Micah went to my mom's. They were so excited to see each other when they reunited. For a humorous take on that friendship you can read this.
4. Trip to New York City - What a fun trip! It was a first for both of us. Like many others, it's now one of our favorite cities. We're planning on going back next fall. The conference we went to was amazing.
3. The Midtown Prayer Collective - I've written about this before, so I won't repeat myself, but I do feel that God is going to use this time, and the times ahead, to do great work in individual lives, in our churches, and in our city.
2. Our California Adventure - Two weeks in California was so much fun for our family. Time with the Currier's in Pasadena, a day at Disney Land, and then a full week in San Francisco was so good for all of us.
1. Adam's baptism - Again, I've written about this here, but leading Adam to Christ and then baptizing him a couple of months later was the highlight of my year. I'm so grateful for what God is doing in his heart.
2012 was one of the best for our family. As we celebrate the birth of Christ today and look forward to the start of a new year, we leave you with our annual video.
Merry Christmas!
2012 Christmas Video from MANDY GRISHAM on Vimeo.
Monday, December 24, 2012
2012 Top Ten Lists: Books
I read some really good books this year. Here are a few. These first two are on the topic of of spiritual formation.
The Circle Maker, by Mark Batterson, had a huge impact when it comes to where we went with the Midtown Prayer Collective. I've read several of Batterson's books. The common element with all of them is that they increase my faith. This one was no exception.
Next up is The 24/7 Prayer Manual, by Pete Greig. This too was very influential in birthing a desire for radical prayer. I think we've just scratched the surface, and I'm excited about where the collective is headed in 2013.
While those first two focused on prayer, these next two have to do with fleshing it out in the real word. First up is Mark Scandrette's Practicing the Way of Jesus. Our micro church went through this book. Each week we would together choose some type of experiment. Some of the ones we did were practicing a time of silence every day for a week, cutting back our spending on essentials for the week, seeking out opportunities for reconciliation, etc.
Along these same lines was 7, by Jenn Hatmaker. Jenn and her family tried a different experiment each month for seven months. Some of these experiments dealt with food, spending, media, and possessions. These types of books are helpful in that they help spark imagination for creatively living out a life of following Jesus.
Finally, three other books I read that were very influential were..
On the topic of discipleship, The Call of Jesus, by Derek Worthington. Derek is a pastor of one of the Trinity Grace parishes in NYC. The ideas in this books have permeated the culture of Trinity Grace. It's a short but excellent read on what discipleship looks like.
On the topic of organizational health, The Advantage, by Patrick Lencioni. Patrick spoke at the Willow Creek Leadership Summit this year. He spoke on the contents of this book. It was my favorite from the conference, and now our Leadership Team at NC has been reading it together.
And on the topic of church, The Spirit-Filled Church, by Terry Virgo. This book deals with the Holy Spirit's role in starting, growing, and empowering the Church for God's mission.
The Circle Maker, by Mark Batterson, had a huge impact when it comes to where we went with the Midtown Prayer Collective. I've read several of Batterson's books. The common element with all of them is that they increase my faith. This one was no exception.
Next up is The 24/7 Prayer Manual, by Pete Greig. This too was very influential in birthing a desire for radical prayer. I think we've just scratched the surface, and I'm excited about where the collective is headed in 2013.
While those first two focused on prayer, these next two have to do with fleshing it out in the real word. First up is Mark Scandrette's Practicing the Way of Jesus. Our micro church went through this book. Each week we would together choose some type of experiment. Some of the ones we did were practicing a time of silence every day for a week, cutting back our spending on essentials for the week, seeking out opportunities for reconciliation, etc.
Along these same lines was 7, by Jenn Hatmaker. Jenn and her family tried a different experiment each month for seven months. Some of these experiments dealt with food, spending, media, and possessions. These types of books are helpful in that they help spark imagination for creatively living out a life of following Jesus.
Finally, three other books I read that were very influential were..
On the topic of discipleship, The Call of Jesus, by Derek Worthington. Derek is a pastor of one of the Trinity Grace parishes in NYC. The ideas in this books have permeated the culture of Trinity Grace. It's a short but excellent read on what discipleship looks like.
On the topic of organizational health, The Advantage, by Patrick Lencioni. Patrick spoke at the Willow Creek Leadership Summit this year. He spoke on the contents of this book. It was my favorite from the conference, and now our Leadership Team at NC has been reading it together.
And on the topic of church, The Spirit-Filled Church, by Terry Virgo. This book deals with the Holy Spirit's role in starting, growing, and empowering the Church for God's mission.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
2012 Top Ten Lists - Music
With eMusic, Spotify, & Noisetrade, finding good music this year was not difficult. Narrowing it down to a top 10 list...just a bit tougher. But alas, here it is:
9. Vespers, The Fourth Wall
We saw this band at Otherlands this year. Great music. They're really young, which you can kind of tell when they're on stage, but it also makes it even more amazing considering the talent they all have. Watch this and you'll see what I mean.
\
8. Derek Webb, Ctrl
I don't know if Webb will release an album I don't like. His new one is great, but what is even greater is the acoustic version, which I got for FREE on Noisetrade. It's still there, so do yourself a favor and download it.
7. Rend Collective Experiment, Homemade Worship by Handmade People
So glad I discovered these guys. Check out their story here.
6. The Lighthouse and the Whaler, The Lighthouse and the Whaler
One of my best Noisetrade finds. I don't know if I would have ever heard of them if I hadn't found them there. This is one of those albums where just about every song is either a 4 or 5-star on iTunes.
5. Trinity Grace, We Sing As One
This is the newest album from Trinity Grace Church in NYC. The song "We Sing As One" is one of my favorite songs of the year.
4. The Head and the Heart, The Head and the Heart
I was in line at Starbucks one day and saw their album next to the cash register. It compared them to The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons (see below for both), so I knew I needed to check them out. Great band.
3. Eric Whitacre, Water Night
I'm sure that most of you are familiar with the majority of these artists, but perhaps composer/conducter Eric Whitacre is new to you. I love choral music, especially like this. Whitacre became famous through his virtual conducting. This video features the beautiful Water Night.
2. Mumford & Sons, Babel
I was looking forward to this sophomore release for awhile, and I was not disappointed!
1. The Lumineers, The Lumineers
I assumed that Mumford & Sons would take the top spot this year, but then I discovered these guys. I think I first saw them on Letterman or Jimmy Fallon. I was hooked immediately. Again, I love every song on this album.
10. All Sons & Daughters, Season One
Great vocals, musicality and lyrics. I did this song at NC a couple of weeks ago.
Great vocals, musicality and lyrics. I did this song at NC a couple of weeks ago.
9. Vespers, The Fourth Wall
We saw this band at Otherlands this year. Great music. They're really young, which you can kind of tell when they're on stage, but it also makes it even more amazing considering the talent they all have. Watch this and you'll see what I mean.
\
8. Derek Webb, Ctrl
I don't know if Webb will release an album I don't like. His new one is great, but what is even greater is the acoustic version, which I got for FREE on Noisetrade. It's still there, so do yourself a favor and download it.
7. Rend Collective Experiment, Homemade Worship by Handmade People
So glad I discovered these guys. Check out their story here.
6. The Lighthouse and the Whaler, The Lighthouse and the Whaler
One of my best Noisetrade finds. I don't know if I would have ever heard of them if I hadn't found them there. This is one of those albums where just about every song is either a 4 or 5-star on iTunes.
5. Trinity Grace, We Sing As One
This is the newest album from Trinity Grace Church in NYC. The song "We Sing As One" is one of my favorite songs of the year.
4. The Head and the Heart, The Head and the Heart
I was in line at Starbucks one day and saw their album next to the cash register. It compared them to The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons (see below for both), so I knew I needed to check them out. Great band.
3. Eric Whitacre, Water Night
I'm sure that most of you are familiar with the majority of these artists, but perhaps composer/conducter Eric Whitacre is new to you. I love choral music, especially like this. Whitacre became famous through his virtual conducting. This video features the beautiful Water Night.
2. Mumford & Sons, Babel
I was looking forward to this sophomore release for awhile, and I was not disappointed!
1. The Lumineers, The Lumineers
I assumed that Mumford & Sons would take the top spot this year, but then I discovered these guys. I think I first saw them on Letterman or Jimmy Fallon. I was hooked immediately. Again, I love every song on this album.
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