Toys For Kids

Wow, I'm blown away by the response of all our Connectors this past weekend for our Toys for Kids campaign. Thanks to all of you, many kids from James Elementary School in Tampa are going to have a great Christmas!

Connection Church...YOU GUYS ROCK!!!

this year. The pic below says it all.

What's Slowing You Down?

Tracy and I were recently having dinner with our friends Eric and Darlene Partin. As we were talking about life, Eric starting telling me about a boating experience they once had.

They were sailing the west coast of Florida and it was deep into the night. Eric went to get a few hours of sleep, leaving Darlene at the helm. She and her friend were having a wonderful time talking and sailing in the cool of the night.

When Eric got up, he noticed the sails at full mast capturing the wind and the wakes cresting from the bow of the boat, yet something seemed wrong. He checked his GPS, noticing that although it seemed everything was fine and it seemed they were moving along at a good rate of speed, the reality was that they were only going about 2 MPH.

Looking off the stern of the boat, he quickly realized they had snagged a string of crab pots and about 5 buoys that were attached with it. Once they cut them free, the boat began to pick up speed.

The story got me thinking about the times in all of our lives, when it seems like everything is going right, the sails are up, the winds filling them up, the wakes cresting against the side of the ship, yet in reality you're going no where fast.

I have to be constantly looking for those things in my life and ministry that is slowing me down and effectively cut it loose, This is key to moving into the blessings that God has for me.

It's a lesson that all of us could learn from. So, what is it that maybe slowing your life, your dreams, your passions down? Look around, take it to God in prayer, and find out what is needed to cut it loose...you'll be so glad you did.

Live Q&A Video Question #3

Continuing with our live Q&A questions from Sunday, question #3 is, "Are Heaven and Hell physical Places?"

This theme was the first 800 lb. Gorilla that we dealt with and you can listen to that message in it's entirety at www.connectionchurch.me/listen-online.

Leave a comment if you wish.

Live Q&A Question #2

We had an awesome service at Connection Church on Sunday as we answered some of your live questions. As promised, I am going to answer the questions we were unable to get to and I thought that doing so through video would be the best way.

The second questions that we are going to tackle is..."Why are we not seeing miracles like they did in the New Testament?"

Feel free to leave a comment if you wish

Live Q&A Video Question #1

We had an awesome service at Connection Church today as we answered some of your live questions. As promised, I am going to answer the questions we were unable to get to and I thought that doing so through video would be the best way.

The first questions that we are going to tackle is..."How are we supposed to respond to the increasing "Evidence" of evolution?"

Feel free to leave a comment if you wish

Live Q&A This Sunday at ConnectionChurch.ME

You don't want to miss this Sunday at Connection Church. We are wrapping up our "800 lb. Gorilla in the Room," series with a live Q&A.

We have already gotten some great questions, and I can't wait to tackle them head on.

Make sure you invite a friend...cause it's going to be awesome!

See ya Sunday!

The Wise and The Strong

"The wise are mightier than the strong and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger." Proverbs 24:5

I love that first phrase, "The wise are mightier than the strong." Sometimes I think we get it all messed up. The strong get it done because they have money, raw talent, stature and if I could just get a little more, I would accomplish great things.

It's wisdom, which is the application of knowledge, that has the ability to get us so much further in life. Sure, it may make for a slower and less sensational start, but in the long run, it will take us much further and give us sustaining victory.

Is Drinking Alcohol A Sin?

800 lb. Gorilla continues this week at Connection Church. This weeks Gorilla is a pretty hot topic in the church, and frankly has been for many years. It's the subject of drinking alcohol and whether it is right or wrong, in the eyes of God according to what the scriptures teach.

Gabe is going to tackle this issue head on...and I've gone over his message and let me tell you it's going to be a great one.

Make sure you invite a friend, tweet it up over the weekend, and come prepared to experience what God would speak to us through his word.

See ya then!

Victory May Only Be A Moment Away!

It's no secret that I'm a die hard Philadelphia Phillies fan. Have been ever since I was a kid. So, you can imagine how much fun the past few years have been for me. (I don't think my wife would share my sentiment, because I have repeatedly awaken her with a loud cheer during many of their late night, post-season games.)

Needless to say, I think everyone would agree that being a part of a winning team, whether it's on the field or in the stands, is extremely fun. In fact, there's not a whole lot of feelings that are better...except for...well never mind.

It took a good part of two and a half decades for the fightin Phils to play like a championship team. Those were frustrating years, to say the least. We all know what it's like to go through times where you feel like you push and push and don't get anywhere, but when you stick to it, continue to be vigilant through the down times, a winning year(s) does eventually come (that is, of course, unless you're a Cubs fan).

I believe this to be true for anything in life. Winning comes at a price...the price of pushing through the dip, the price of striving over and over even when it seems like all that lies around the corner is another loss. However, if a person keeps pushing through, sooner or later, they will experience the win they've been longing for.

What is the win you've been longing for? Whatever it is, don't give up, keep pushing ahead, because victory may only be a moment away!

YouVersion Live Comming to Connection Church

This week at ConnectionChurch.me, we will be using youversion live for the first time in conjunction with our service.

What is youversion live? It's a way that anyone with an iPhone, Blackberry or any mobile devise that has a browser can interact through with the message/conversation.

Follow the links below to make sure you youversion iPhone and blackberry app is up to date.

iPhone update: http://www.youversion.com/mobile/iphone
Blackberry update http://www.youversion.com/mobile/blackberry

Link for any browser http://www.youversion.com/groups/connectionchurch

Can't wait to see you Sunday!

800 lb. Gorilla in the Room - Starts this Sunday

New Series Starting This Sunday At ConnectionChurch.me

So let's just come out and say it. You know what we're talking about — that super sensitive, oh-so-controversial issue that no one will touch with a ten-foot pole. It's as if there's an 800 lb Gorilla In The Room that everyone's ignoring yet desperately longing to expose. In this new series we'll be tackling these daunting gray areas of life that everyone loves to avoid, especially the church.

So here's a quick run down of what we'll be talking about over the next 6 weeks.

Hell...Does it exist? Does God send people there? Am I going?

Bringing Sexy Back...We'll be spending two weeks talking about...that's right...SEX!

Church, Politics and Culture? Do they mix, should Christian's get involved?

Drink, Drank, Drunk - What the church should believe about drinking and other vices.

Q & A - We'll wrap the series up with a day of live Q & A. All though out the series, you'll have a chance to text, email and ask any questions that we'll answer live.

What's happening at Connection Church.me

I haven't been keeping up on my blog recently, so here are somethings that have been going on at Connection Church in the past month.

1. We have reached the 80+ mark in worship for over 4 weeks in a row. That's over 90% growth in the past 3 months alone! I'm humbled and thankful for God's grace in the growth that He is giving us.
2. Our staff set a goal to break the hundred mark in the next 6 weeks. I was a little hesitant in sharing this with our congregation because it attaches a tangible number that isn't always the best measurement in what God is doing, but I felt like this is so doable and it gives us a goal, that in the words of my father-in-law, is a S.A.M. goal (Simple, Attainable, and Measurable). It's going to be fun to watch and experience, so Connectors, let me encourage you to keep investing, keep inviting, and keep the dream alive in your hearts.
   
3. We just finished our series called Re-Sync, in which we talked about four areas that our lives need to be continually synced to: Eternity, Repentance, Grace and Generosity. You can listen to any of them here.
   
4. In today's service we challenged our people with the generosity challenge. Basically it challenged those who aren't giving to start, those who are giving to move closer to the 10% mark and those who are at the 10% mark to move above and beyond. I was so encouraged by the amount of people who took the challenge. God will show himself faithful to you.
5. Next week we start our new series, "800 lb. Gorilla in the Room." We will be having a conversation about some very hot topics that everyone knows is there, but no one is talking about. It's going to be a series that may ruffle a few feathers, be a little uncomfortable at times, but most importantly give some Biblical perspective to the world around us. You don't want to miss it.

Tail Gate Party this Sunday At ConnectionChurch.me

This Sunday at ConnectionChurch.me. Wear your favorite NFL or college team colors and join us after church at CiCi's pizza for a tail gate party...I know, I know, it's not much of a tail gate party if it's inside. But hey...It's bazillion degrees in Florida so CiCi's is the place!

Ae You Tempting Jesus?

So, I was reading in Luke the other day about the temptation of Jesus. As I was reading this thought struck me. Is it possible that we tempt Jesus in the same way that Satan tempted him?

Satan first tempted Jesus by saying, "if you are the son of God, turn these stones into bread." Ever heard yourself say something like this..."If you are truly God, then bless me with money, take away my trials, make me comfortable and satisfied."

The second temptation was Satan taking Jesus up to the highest mountain and saying, "all this belongs to me, and I'll give it to you if you bow and worship me." Sound familiar? No, perhaps this does... "I am in charge of my life, and I'll worship you Jesus only to the extent of what is comfortable for me. I'll pick and choose what I believe."

The last temptation was Satan challenging Christ to throw himself off the temple and have his angels come to his rescue. Here's an all familiar saying... "if you are truly God, Jesus, then prove it by showing yourself strong on my behalf."

James tells us that God can not be tempted, yet it's amazing how we still try. Christ words of rebuke to Satan that day have implicit meaning for us today.

"Man does not live by bread alone." Message: Be less interested what I can do for you and more interested in what I can do in you.

"Worship the Lord your God and serve only him." Message: I'm not interested in conforming to anyone, but if you want to conform to my ways, I'll give you the grace to do so, and by the way...this is where life truly begins.

"You must not test the Lord your God." Message: You'll be much better off when you stop trying to test me and just start believing me.

Just a thought.

Upcoming at ConnectionChurch.me

ConnectionChurch.me has had an amazing summer. Since we made our move to the AMC24 on Anderson Road, we have seen so many new faces and have added many new people to our church family. It's been exciting to see growth right in the middle of a time when most people say churches don't grow...summer.

We are charged with great expectancy for what this fall is going to bring. New systems have been put in place that will effectively enable us to minister to many more people who will be coming to ConnectionChurch.me.

Take a look at some of the things we will be embarking on this fall. Get excited, invite your friends, and experience God's favor as we move forward in him.

September

• New Series starting on September 13th - "Re-Sync." September is always a "Back to" month. Back to school, back to work, and back to the routines of life. It's a great time to stop, Re-Sync and get back to the basics of our relationship with Christ as well.
• Discover ConnectionChurch.me luncheon. For all newcomers at Connection Church, join us Sunday, September 13th at 12:15 pm at Logan's Roadhouse for a luncheon and a time to hear what Connection Church is all about.
• Sunday, September 20th...NFL DAY at ConnectionChurch. To celebrate the opening month of the 2009 season, we want everyone to wear their favorite team colors, jerseys, etc. After the service we will have a tailgate party and enjoy some fun, food and fellowship.

October

• New Series kicking off in October..."800 lbs Gorilla in the Room...important issues that no one is talking about." What issues are before us everyday, but the church just isn't talking about? Sex? Hell? Drinking? Politics? We'll explore a range of things and find out what the Bible says about those thing and follow up each message with a live time of Q & A.
• Friends Day, Sunday, October 18tth. Do you have any friends that don't go to church. We are designing this day just for them. Make your list now, begin praying for them and invite them to come and see what ConnectionChurch.me is all about.
  

Get 'em God!

I was reading in 1 Kings 21 today and I came to the conclusion that I would have hated to be an Old Testament prophet. Why? Well, check out the story...

Ahab was king of Israel and according to the scriptures, he was the most evil king they ever had. One day he was walking around his palace grounds and decided he wanted his neighbors vineyard. He offered to buy it from him, but he wouldn't sell.

So, Ahab goes home and cries like a baby to his wife Jezebel...who was more wicked than him. What does she do? She kills the guy and leaves his body in the streets to be eaten by the dogs.

It was at this point, that I'm furious and I'm thinking...I hope this guy and his stupid wife get what is due them...death!

And what do you know, God tells Elijah to go tell Ahab he's going to do just that. The message he gave was filled with the strongest words I've read...Ahab and his wife's bodies are going to be eaten by dogs, flesh torn apart, blood everywhere...I was ready to stand and shout...YEAH GOD...GET THEM GOOD!

Then, when Elijah tells Ahab, Ahab actually repents in a big time way, and God tells Elijah..."Did you see Ahab...he's really sorry...tell him I'm not going through with what I told him I was going to do."

I was ticked when I read that, and I couldn't help but think that Elijah may have been as well. After all, Ahab was a pathetic excuse for a leader who only was concerned with himself...why would God would you let him live.

Then it hit me. God is not about retribution and revenge...he's about repentance. That's what sets apart the men from the boys all through out the Bible. A man or woman after God's heart is a man or woman who lives a life of repentance.

J.I. Packer says that Christianity is a religion about one thing...repentance. Not retribution, retaliation or revenge, but simply repentance...the ability to say I need forgiven.

For that, I have to thank God for his sparing Ahab...why? Because when I was in sin, he spared me. He's after my repentance not revenge or retaliation...and for that I'm thankful that he shows it even through a horrible man like Ahab.

It's all about me

Tomorrow morning starts our new message series "it's all about.me





-- Post From My iPhone

When God Frustrates Your Plans

Ever experienced that? You plan and plan, apply this strategy, take this route and still it seems like something is blocking all your efforts. Sometimes this is the very hand of God, and it's not in effect to hurt you, but really to shape you and to show you that His plans are the ones that really matter.

Proverbs 19:21 says, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."

I recently came across this poem written by an unknown soldier that fought in the war between the states. It sums this up so perfectly...enjoy!

I asked God for strength that I might achieve.
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked God for health that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy.
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all the things that I might enjoy life.
I was given life that I might endure all things.
I got nothing I asked for
But everything I had hoped for...
Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among all men most richly blessed.

Give It Away

Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 is an old Hebrew idiom that says, "Cast your bread upon the waters and after many days you will find it again." The meaning of it is to give to charity and it will be returned to you.

I think one way we can keep going and gain hope during these hard times is to look for ways to give, even when you may not have much yourself. There's always something you can do, so be creative and look for ways to give it away.

For some reason, God has set it up in his economy that when we give, especially out of our own struggles, it has a way of coming back to us. So what are you going to do, how are you going to give? You won't be sorry, so go ahead and give.

Close To Home

On my way home today, I saw a guy walking through the neighborhood with a stack of green brochures in his hand. I didn't think much of it, until I got home and read the green sliver of paper. On it was a plea from one of our neighbors asking for any work. From mowing lawns, to running errands, this couple was willing to anything to just survive. My heart was so sad for them.

Hitting so close to home, I can't imagine anyone in our sub-division not wanting to give them something to do, but if they are like we are, there's not enough cash going around to give them any work. In fact, I wonder how many people are only a few weeks away from the same kind of desperation.

Times like these are extremely tough yet in all these things, we must never lose hope that God is here. It may not feel like it, you're bank account may not show it, but his word promises us that he is and that he will never leave us.

If there is one thing I've learned over the course of my life it's this simple rule...no matter what happens, no matter what comes your way, no matter what you're facing...don't every quit! God will get you through in some way, and at the end of the storm you'll be glad you put your trust in him.

Sunday Thoughts

Today was debut service of ConnectionChurch.me in the AMC 24 on Anderson Road in Tampa. Some things that are on my mind concerning the day...

1. Set up was pretty rough, but that was to be expected. Changing from an old routine to a new one always creates that kind of mayham, but our team did a great job scrambling to get everything done.
2. Special thanks to everyone on the dream team who came an hour earlier (some 2 hours) to help with set up. Give us a few more weeks of that and we'll be back to our normal times. You guys rock!!!
   
3. Special thanks to Pete for building a stage...it really made a difference.
4. I realize that the goal for us at this point is to come up with a way to make as few trips from our storage container to the theaters as possible...we're gonna be working hard on that one.
5. Our greeter team did a great job welcoming everyone, including those people who came to see a movie. Keep up the great work guys.
6. We had a lot of amazing connections with people who came to the theater and was wondering what was going on. One example came when two girls heard the Gabe and the worship team playing and asked what was going on. I said "Church," and they responded, "this is church!" That's exactly why we made this move.
7. We started "God At The Movies" today and looked at the movie I Am Legend. Great conversation on why evil exists and the answer to it.
8. Gabe's new video (which you can see by clicking here) was amazing and worked perfectly into my message. Gabe...you the man, keep up the great work.
9. Our guitar player Rei is getting married next Saturday and then moving to South Carolina. Today was his last Sunday with us. We love you Rei, thanks for the last year and all the hard work you put into Connection Church. We wish you and Whitney the best of luck and God's blessing on your new life together.
10. It's now Sunday night, and I'm extremely tired, but can't wait to get up and do this all over tomorrow. There's nothing else I'd rather do, and no one else that I'd rather serve with than the incredible volunteers at ConnectionChurch.me
    

Real Connection Starts With .ME

Check it out Gabe's new video for our new .me campaign!



ConnectionChurch.me

Comming Soon

Here's the teaser to our new series coming to ConnectionChurch.me. Series starts July 5th!!!

Big Changes at Connection Church

There is so much going on at Connection Church right now. We are so blessed to be part of what God is doing in the city of Tampa. Here are a few details that you are going to need to know.

1. On Sunday, July 5th, we will hold our first service at our new location. The AMC 24 (Veterans 24) will be our new venue. We are so excited about this move. The amount of traffic that this place sees on a Sunday morning is amazing. We are truly looking forward to being in the cultural center of our community.
2. You may have noticed that we have been referring to our church in a little different way. It's not by accident. When we make the move to the AMC 24 we will also be modifying our name. The point will be dropped and we will simply be known as Connection Church. We will be changing our web address to www.connectionchurch.me.
3. Our service times will also change. Starting on the first Sunday of July, we will start our service at 10:00 am.

We have really prayed through this and we are convinced that God has led the way and we are simply jumping on board with Him. Please pray as well, as we continue to raise the God level in our community.

Exciting Things Happenging at Connection Church

We have some very exciting things coming up at Connection Church in the next few weeks.

First, our "One Prayer" series is in full swing. We are partnering with over 1700 churches world wide in being the answer to Christ's Prayer..."Make us One." During this month we will be serving our community, fasting and praying, and having a weekly conversation around the topic "God is ________!"

Second, If you missed the big announcement last Sunday in church, here it is again.

Connection Church is moving it's location to The AMC 24 theater on Anderson Road (Veterans 24). The move will take place on the first Sunday of July (July 5th). This is an exciting time for theCP as we move into a powerful season of growth.

Proud!

Another school year is coming to an end and we've been going to a number of events for my kids, from band concerts to award ceremonies. I'm super proud of both of them.

In just a few days my daughter will be moving into a whole new realm of life...High School! I can't believe it...it seems like it was just yesterday since she was a little cute munchkin running around the house in diapers. I'm super proud of her. She so smart and beautiful. This year she got high honor roll and won a band award and history fair award.

Then you have my son. Conner is going to be in the 8th grade next year. He's incredibly gifted in school and made the President's honor roll for straight A's all year. I was thinking back to when he was in kindergarten and remembered something he told us on the last day. It went like this.

I have good news and gooder news. The good news is Miss Crossman liked her gift, and the gooder news is, I'M GOING TO THE FIRST GRADE!

Priceless.

As I was thinking about my kids, I couldn't help reflect on how proud God is of all of us. I don't think we realize this enough, but it's true. He's rooting for us, shouting for us, and saying..."That's my boy, that's my girl...I'm so proud of them."

The Bible tells us this in Ephesians 3

And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Don't ever forget that God loves you more than you could ever know and he is so proud of you no matter where you've been or what you've done. Put your trust in him today...You'll never be sorry!

Chilling Thought Indeed!

Have you ever prayed a prayer that sounds like this, "God, use me for whatever you want, however you want, whenever you want?" We all have. But, think about it, do we really mean it when we say "whatever, however, whenever?"

I was reading in Acts 25 & 26 today, which chronicled Paul's arrest and incarceration. It gripped me when King Agrippa (no pun intended..get it gripped...Agripppa...never mind) said that if Paul wouldn't have appealed to Caesar for his trial he would have been set free.

One has to ask themselves, "why would God allow him to go to jail for one small slip of the tongue?"

Then it dawned on me that the Bible tells us "the steps of a righteous man are ordered by God." What happened with Paul was designed by God because Paul's life was one that was lived in total abandonment before God.

Then came this chilling thought. If we are totally abandoned before God, then success is measured totally different than most of us think.

For example, I once heard of a missionary who spent his life in some remote country and never saw the results he dreamed of, only to have someone come behind him to reap what he sowed...and God designed it that way.

We all want earthly success and I believe God designed us with that drive. However, here is something to remember and to hang your hat on. The world's definition of success is always centered around results, but God's definition of success is always centered around obedience.

Chilling Thought Indeed!

Mother's Day

This coming weekend is Mother's Day and we are gearing up for a great Sunday at ConnectionPointChurch.tv.

Here's what is happening...This Sunday is going to be more than a mother's day weekend service, it's going to be a ladies day.

Tracy is going to be speaking and I know she is going to knock it out of the park. We were going over the message today and she was sharing with me what she wants to say to our young single ladies, married ladies/moms, single moms, and ladies of all ages. Trust me it's going to be awesome.

Make it a point to be there and bring a friend as well...See ya then.

Christ Exchange Principle

Ever heard of a guy named Edmond Locard. He was the pioneer of modern day forensic science.

Locard came up with a concept known as the "Locard Exchange Principle." In essence it says that every person that comes in contact with a crime scene, both takes and leaves something from that scene. Hair, threads, fibers, skin, blood, etc. all have been used to solve crimes that before seemed unsolvable.

I got to thinking how this principle could be applied to those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ and the mission that He laid out for us.

We could call it the "Christ Exchange Principle." In essence it would say that with every place we go and with every person we meet, we have the ability to learn something from them and, more importantly, to be a God given blessing to them.

I have a quote in one of my journals by a dear lady who seemed to have the "Christ Exchange Principle" down. Her name is Mother Teresa and these are her words.

"Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile."

Join the conversation this Sunday at ConnectionPointChurch.tv as we continue in our series "Go Fish" and to look at how we can apply this principle.

click here to join the discussion on my web page stevewulf.com

Chaos and Crisis

I'm beginning to realize that some of the most challenging times we go through are really the best opportunities for growth. It's these times that the creativity that God has equipped us with really steps up in our lives.

God's desire is not for us to give up, but to look at our situation and ask how we can use our creativity and innovation to rise above and become stronger and even break through into a whole new level of growth.

When your outlook is focused in this way, you can take chaos and crisis and actually use them to your benefit. This excites me, because it helps me realize that trying times, although painful and unpleasant, are an indication that success is only a few small and steady steps away.

We'll Miss You Harry!

Today is a sad day for sports fan everywhere and especially if you are a Philadelphia Phillies fan...which I am. Harry Kalas, the famous, loved and cherished voice of Phillies baseball died today. He passed out in the announcers booth yesterday at the Phillies game in DC (what a way to go), and was taken to a hospital where he later died. He was 73 years old.

I remember listening to Harry with my dad many times. His voice is one of legend. Here is a short clip of him announcing the Phillies 2008 world championship game.

A Great Day at the Connection Point

What an awesome day we had. This Sunday we celebrated our first Easter at the Connection Point, and let me just say thank you to all our Connectors on the great job you did of inviting your friends to hear the life-giving message of Jesus Christ.

Gabe and the band did an excellent job taking us into the presence of God through worship. I spoke on the cross being the icon of our faith and how his resurrection makes the cross our bridge to God...what was once separated, can now come together because of Christ Jesus.

After the service we had a Easter egg hunt for the kids...here are a few pics.

Savannah (a first time guest) won the coveted iPod shuffle...congratulations

Lauren Killeen won an Easter Bunny Basket...Congratulations!

Brianna Smith won an Easter Basket...Congratulations!

Golf, Golf and More Golf

Today, the golf gods were shinning on me. Not only is this week the best week in the PGA with the masters tomorrow (or today if you're reading this late), but I personally scored about 6 free rounds of golf.

Here's how it happened. I promised my son that would take him to play golf today. In my quest to find a public course with the cheapest prices (which is a post in itself), I came across a couple of local courses that were advertising a free round of golf on your birthday by signing up for the online community.

In signing up for them, I noticed how similar the forms looked. So, I put two and two together and started looking for other courses offering the same thing. The result...I now have free birthday rounds of golf in New Port Ritchey, Clearwater, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Tampa. To make things even better, my birthday is in 2o days. SWEET!

If you live in Tampa you can get the same thing. Check it out here and here.

True Worship

In Romans 12:1 it says, "In view of God's mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, this is your spiritual act of worship." The first phrase of that verse is the heart of where worship is born.

"In view of God's mercy," what you were unable to do for yourself that God did for you. "In view of God's mercy," Christ choosing you when no one else would. "In view of God's mercy," a God who came to earth, walked among us, and gave his life so that we wouldn't have to.

When we truly keep God's mercy in front of our lives, all of our acts become pure worship unto him. "In view of God's mercy."

Are you keeping his mercy at the forefront of your life?

This Weekend at The Connection Point

This Sunday is Palm Sunday. In the Christian faith it is the mark of Christ entering Jerusalem for the final week of his life before his crucifixion. Because of what happened on that day, it's perfect for talking about what worship is in our lives.

Worship is more than a group of songs that we sing on Sunday morning, it's more than clapping and raising your hands, it's really a lifestyle that you live.

So make it a point to be there, and see what the power of worship is all about.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

I love watching golf and I love watching Tiger Woods play. His mental prowess along with his never ending tenacity absolutely amazes me.

One thing I noticed about Tiger is that he rarely gets so far out in front of his opponents within the first, second or even third round of a tournament. In fact, many times he's lingering a few strokes off the lead going into the final round. But he remains slow and steady, simply playing good golf one stroke at a time.

That's what makes him the best. He doesn't have a need to be in the lead after the first, second or third round, his only need...is to be first when it counts.

As a church planter and Christ follower, I keep thinking how appropriate this attitude is to my own life. I often get ahead of myself, trying to get out in front of everything. But in the end, it's the slow and steady pace that ultimately wins the final hole at the end of the day.

I Have To Fix It

In almost every endeavor I'm involved in, I can easily spot what I think needs fixing. Having this gift is in some ways great and in other ways bad. Let me explain...

For months, I had a rattle on my motorcycle that about drove me to tears. Every time I rode it I was driven to the point of madness and every time I got off I went into fix it mode. For months I took things apart, tightened this screw and that bolt and still at the end of the day the rattle remained.

Then one day, I decided to just enjoy the ride and ignore the rattle. Wouldn't you know this was the day that I uncovered the problem and fixed it. Turns out it was a loose nut on one of my highway pegs. I was embarrassed, a little mad, but most of all disappointed in myself. All the countless hours trying to fix it stole the joy that riding brings.

For all those months that I was desperately trying to figure what the issue was, I actually made matters worse. In my desire to get it fixed, I weakened other parts of the bike, stripped out screw heads and threads and on more than one occassion almost lost control of the bike while trying to find the problem in the middle of riding (I know not smart).

I can't help but think how this "fix it" mentality has effected my life in other ways. How many opportunities I missed, relationships I weakened and victories I've sabotaged all because I find myself in "fix it" mode. We into the trap of thinking that things are broken because they don't sound, look, or feel like we think they should, so we go into fix it mode and end up weakening the integrity of life itself. If we just learn to move through life in a forward motion, while enjoying it along the way, we'll get so much further in all we do.

How about you? Are you trying to fix too much and missing out on life?

Don't Shortcut the Process

Dreams are something that all of us possess. They are hardwired into our DNA. Unfortunately, for many, they never get to their realization or fulfillment.

The reason? They don't give themselves to the process. You see, sandwiched between our dreams and their fulfillment is a process that we all have to go through, it's part of the journey, the road to success. It's at this point that many slam on the brakes and turn around because the process is the most difficult part. It's filled with hard work, set backs, disappointments, and takes a grueling desire that never quits.

There's a word for this...discipline.

Here in lies the problem. Discipline is not hardwired into our DNA, in fact, it's something we naturally resist. As a result, we look for easier roads and short cuts that tempt us with the lie of getting us there sooner and with less pain.

But shortcuts never work and ultimately we stay in the very place we are desperately trying to move past.

At the Connection Point, we've been looking at the early years of King David's life. We are in the middle of examining his process, seeing how the shortcuts tripped him up, discipline kept him going and learning from it to benefit our own lives.

Do you have a dream? If so, resist the temptation to shortcut. Instead, give yourself to it, be persistent, and don't wander down a different path to try get to it sooner.

Join us this week as we continue the journey into the process of David's life.

it cost something...

...anything worth it's salt, that is (which after watching Modern Marvels:salt I can now tell you where that saying comes from).

Have you ever had anything happen to you of significance that didn't cost something? In fact, I would say some of the things that are sweetest in life carry the heftiest price tags.

Being financially free, raising great kids, maintaining healthy relationships, being successful in your career; all have a large price tag attached. The sad thing is that most people haven't counted the cost and they get frustrated and quit way to early without paying it out.

I often wonder how many people gave up on the brink of getting their payday. How many people were literally one step, one day, or one idea away and quit because it got too hard.

It's this thought that keeps me paying it out and keeps me determined. You see, I want the payday and I'm stubborn enough and determined not back down until I get it. How about you?

The Final Challenge (Stop Campaign)

Hey Connectors, the following video is filled with footage from our various Stops on the Stop Campaign. Hope you enjoy.

Also, don't forget this Saturday. It's our final stop on the Campaign. We are meeting at the church office (5008 W. Linebaugh Ave Suite 16, Tampa, FL 33624) at 11:30 am. We have about 1000 items to giveaway, so we need your help. Hope to see you there.


The Stop Campaign | Main Feature from The Stop Campaign on Vimeo.

Untitled

New series, Biography starts this Sunday at The Connection Point.

David. Many read his story and question how God could use a man so imperfect. In his adult life, he matched every success with an equally impressive failure. Journey with us into the rich history of a life that conquered a giant and earned the esteem of God amidst his stumbles.

*In case you were wondering, the dude in the above picture is not David.

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Church 101 This Weekend at The Connection Point

If you haven't been through the first step of The Connection Point's growth track (Church 101), it's happening this Sunday morning at 8:30 am. and I want to invite you to be there for it. 

What is Church 101?  I'm glad you asked.  It's simply an overview of our history, vision and culture of the Connection Point.  It's a great time to get to know us as we get to know you. 

So, if your new to the Connection Point or if you haven't yet gone through this awesome class, consider this a formal invitation to Church 101.

If you're interested, please click here to email Don Champion...See you then!

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How to Handle the Stuff of Life

Psalms 77 is a kind of lament from this dude named Asaph.  He was one Israel's kings.  His writings give the reader a picture of really down on his luck he was.  Nothing was going right and his soul was in major anguish.  Day and night he called out to God and didn't seem to get an answer.  Sound familiar?  Can you identify?

Then in verses 11 & 12 he says, "I recall all you have done, O Lord ; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works."

Asaph came to an epiphany in life that all of us must come to, he realized the power of testimony. When the doubts of life came crashing in, his response was to remember all that God had done.

When doubts come to you, do the same, remember all that God has done and it will lift you up to face the challenges ahead.

Revelation 12:11 says, "They overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony..."

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A Great Stop Idea

Laura Marlin had some awesome success with the Stop Campaign today.  Check out what she did at Lifestyle Family Gym.  She attached a bunch of our stop campaign cards to a couple of cases of bottled water and left them for people to take on their way into the gym.  What a great idea!!!  Keep it up guys...we're making a difference.

Also, don't forget to log onto the website and read all the comments that people have left and leave one yourself.

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Late For Church Video

If you were at The Connection Point two weeks ago you'll remember this video. For those of you who weren't, as promised, here it is. Keep in mind it was an interactive video. Rick was talking on his phone from the stage as if he was talking to me...his timing was perfect. At the end of the video, the doors swung open and I rode my motorcycle into the auditorium. We had a blast with it, and for those of you who know me, you won't be surprised when I tell you I almost crashed...some things never change.


Late For Church from The Connection Point on Vimeo.

Mid-week Update

A couple of highlights concerning the Connection Point.

1. The Stop Campaign continues this Friday night.  We are meeting at the AMC 24 on Anderson Rd at 6 pm. 
   
2. Check out the Stop website by clicking here.  We added a comment window to the page for those who have had a stop experience to leave us a note.  It's also a great place for you to go and tell us about how you've been stopping those in your circle of influence. 
   
3. We just opened a Facebook account for the church.  You can find it by clicking here...so go ahead and become our friend.  You'll need to be logged into Facebook to see us, and if you're not on Facebook, what a better time to open an account.
   
4. We will be going to feed the hungry on Monday night.  Meet at Hyde Park, United Methodist Church at 6:30 pm.  Make sure you sign up on Sunday at the resource table.
5. Discipleship 201 is right around the corner (March).  We are very excited about this and I think you will really enjoy it.  Ask us about it on Sunday, and if you're interested in being a part of it, sign up at the resource table.
   

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Bible Reading Thoughts

I just recently started on a program to read through the Bible in a year.  You can do the same by going here.

Anyhow, part of today's reading was found in Psalms 73.  It's a passage that shows the rawness of a guy named Asaph.  I guess he was a king of Israel, but that's not important.  What is important was the cry of his heart. 

Asaph was a real jaded guy.  He was mad at the world, mad at God, and extremely bitter about life.  What was his problem?  He couldn't understand how God could allow all the bad people in the world to prosper and all the Godly ones to see, what he thought, was ruin. 

It's a real heart felt cry, one that I don't think is too far from many of our hearts.  You know what I mean.  All of us have times when questions that we just can't figure out have a way of rising to the surface and plaguing our thoughts to the point of becoming bitter, jaded and not sure how we think of God's faithfulness.

It isn't until Asaph comes to the following conclusion that his attitude begins to change.  The conclusion comes in a great picture of God's faithfulness in the light of eternity.  Listen to his words,

My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,

  but God remains the strength of my heart;

  he is mine forever.

On Sunday at the Connection Point, we talked about his very thing.  The question we've been asking is, "if I had 30 days to live, what would be different."  I proposed to us that our view of eternity and the level of trust we put in God would change dramatically.  Have you thought about that in the last few days?  I hope so, because it will give you a new perspective that will change your life.

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Dream Team Profile - Amber Chadwell and Chelsea Watkins

Every Sunday, a group of people show up super early at The Connection Point to set everything up. They do so for one reason...To Connect Real People To a Real God in a Real World. I'm always so proud of everyone on the team. They all work so hard and do so with a huge smile on their face. Way to go team!

One of my core leadership values goes something like this, "Leadership is about serving and not being served." I always love it when people really model this attitude. One such person that modeled this attitude on Sunday was this girl...

Amber Chadwell is a real team player. On Sunday I happened to see Amber on her hands and knees cleaning the facade of the stage. I asked what she was doing and she responded, "this is filthy and it needs to be cleaned." I quickly ran and got my camera and snapped a picture. What a servants heart! I didn't ask her to do it, in fact no one did, she just saw an opportunity to serve and took it. Way to go Amber.

Another Connection Peep that works so hard is this girl...

Chelsea Watkins has a way of lighting up the room when she walks in. She is always smiling, always making people laugh, and always bringing joy to their lives. She works along side Kristina Burnson to make our Connection Kids a fun, life-giving experience for our children.

The young girls simply love her, because she models what a young Christian lady is all about. Way to go Chelsea...Keep up the good work!

What a Day at The Connection Point!

Today was the kick off to the Stop Campaign at The Connection Point. Wow!!! What an awesome day. Many new guests, many people responded to the message, and everyone is excited about the month to come. Gabe and the worship team did a powerful job leading worship and they did the cover song "Stop and Stare" by One Republic and absolutely nailed it.

Here are some pics from the day!

Gabe and the Worship Team (Randy, Rei and Keith playing "Stop and Stare" by One Republic.

Rick the "Ricker" Chadwell emceeing the morning

The Connection Point getting ready for Stop!

Pastor Steve

Tithing Rap

At The Connection Point, we just finished our series on God's principles in money management. I wish I had seen this video then, because I would have tried to get it to show in one of our services. However, since I didn't I thought I would share it here.

If you can't see the video in your email, please click here to go to youtube to view it...ENJOY!

Follow The Stop Campaign

The Stop Campaign has begun. Tracy and I stopped our first person. She was our waitress at the restaurant. We gave her a killer tip and card to go with it. Wow, this is going to be an awesome month and I can't wait to hear what your stories as well.

How can you tell us? Below is a list of social medias to get plugged into the Stop Campaign. You can leave comments, tell us your experiences, and much more.

Click any of the links below

1. Become a fan on facebook (must be a Facebook user...if you're not, why not start now.
2. Become a friend on myspace (for those who haven't made the Facebook switch)
3. The Stop Campaign on twitter. (What is twitter...click the link to find out)
4. The Stop Campaign on vimeo. (View all our stop videos, leave a comment, etc)
5. The Stop Campaign on flickr. (View our pics, leave a comment, etc)
6. The Stop Campaign on youtube (View all our stop videos, leave a comment, etc)
   

It's Almost Here

You absolutely don't want to miss this Sunday at The Connection Point. It's the moment we've been waiting for - The Stop Campaign begins.

Want to know what it's all about? Click on the website www.haveyoubeenstopped.com. Watch the videos, check out our many social media outlets and become a fan. Most importantly, mark it on your calendar to be at the CPoint on Sunday morning at 10:30 am. at Sgt Paul Smith Middle School.

Dream Team Profile - Kristina Burnson

Proverbs 31:31 ...A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate [and this blog.]

Kristina Burnson joined our dream team somewhere in July of '08. She's one of these kinds of girls who is purely a utility player for the team. When we had a role to fill in our children's ministries she stepped up to the plate. When we need help in any area, she's there with a smile.

Way to go Kristina...thanks for being such an awesome part of the team.

What's Red and White and Soon to Be All Over (West Tampa)

It's The Stop Campaign and it's coming soon!


The Stop Campaign | Teaser II from The Stop Campaign on Vimeo.

failing forward

Great dream team meeting tonight. Never got to my teaching on intuition in leadership. The conversation instead went to how failure is necessary for success (my intuition led us down this path.)

In talking about this subject (failure) I started thinking about my sons Ripstick. A Ripstick is an, almost impossible to ride, skateboard. He's great at it, I on the other hand, suck. Perhaps that's because I haven't failed enough at it to become good. And that's the point of the whole discussion. Without failure, you'll never be programed to succeed.

Think about it. Remember when you first learned to ride a bike. You failed over and over, but it's the failures that programmed your motor skills to respond in the way that brought you success. Failure in life is the same way, so don't be afraid to step out, try, and even fail. When you get back up and back on, you'll be more adapt to succeed the next time.

Change Your Thinking

We had an awesome Sunday at the Connection Point. Thanks to all those who are catching the buzz about the vision and becoming passionate and contagious about investing and inviting your friends, relatives and those within your circle of influence.

This past week, we continued in our series "It's a Green Thing [Managing Your Money God's Way]." I spoke on changing our thinking as being vital in managing our money. One of the points we talked about was, "I will live by a plan." In the spirit of that, I thought I would list some web resources that may be of help to you in developing a plan for your finances. Enjoy!

1. www.daveramsey.com By far the leading Christian guru on money management
2. www.betterbudgeting.com Budgeting tools, debt calculators and many other financial tools.
3. www.christiandebtconsultants.com Help for those in debt.
4. Scripture verses about finances
5. www.haveyoubeenstopped.com (A powerful way to practice generosity - sponsored by the Connection Point - A Community Church)

Have You Been Stopped?

The Connection Point is getting ready to embark on a great campaign coming in the month of February. We're calling it the Stop Campaign. What's it all about? You'll have to keep watching for future details.