The Insomnia Chronicles

Up, Up, and Away!

BUZZARD
If you put a buzzard in a pen  6 feet by 8 feet entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for Life in a small jail with no top.
 
BAT
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkably nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground, all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and, no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which It can throw itself into the air. Then, at once, it takes off like a flash.
 
BUMBLEBEE
A bumblebee, if dropped into an tall cup, will be there until it dies, unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top, but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists, until it completely destroys itself.
 
PEOPLE
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up.

• What's got you trapped & frustrated?
• Why does it take so long for you to look UP?
• And, after getting out, why do we end up in the same places so often?

Looking UP & Flying Away, chilly

Wild Goose Chase - Blog Tour!

MY REVIEW:

It is such a joy to be one of those reviewing the book, Wild Goose Chase.  I'm honored to do it.  I am not being paid for my review - except for receiving 2 free copies - one for me and the other for one of my readers (maybe you?).

I met Pastor Mark Batterson, years ago when I was the Youth Ministry Specialist at Valley Forge Christian College. I was immediately impressed with what I called "a practical passion" - there are lots of people with charisma and personality, but Mark had a humble, quiet confidence. I never sensed that he was trying to impress or that he was impressed with himself. Simply said, He was (and is) REAL. Click his picture to visit his blog site.

I received Mark's first book, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, as a gift from Mark to "church planters" - I thought this was extremely generous and meaningful back then. Since then, that book has impacted churches & individuals all around the world. It is an amazing read. IF you don't own a copy, click on the title and get one (for a great price). Sometimes the sophomore project is a let down to such a successful beginning, however, I have found Wild Goose Chase to be even better!  I recommend it to anyone who is ready to pursue God's destiny with a reckless abandonment.

When I first heard the title of this book (long before I possessed a copy), I did what many web-addicts might do, I wiki'd it!  A 'wild goose chase' was defined as: a lengthy or useless pursuit or task whose execution requires inordinate resources and circuitous execution.  Hmmm, sounded interesting. I think, in today's curiously cynical culture, choosing the right title is really important.  And now, having read the book, it's clear that Mark continued with this deliberate provocation by choosing unique chapter titles. Hey, like it or not, we are easily distracted and lots of things compete for our attention, but this book makes you want to read it, page by page by page...  yeah, including me!  I read it cover-to-cover beginning late one evening - into the early hours of the next day - pausing to rest a few hours - then, waking with anticipation to pick up and finish it.  I'M BETTER FOR READING IT.

Some of the features I love are:  short & exciting chapters, amazing quotes, personal applications, Biblical infusion throughout and the "Your Chase" application/discussion questions at the end of each chapter.  I know my staff and team are going to gobble this thing up - which is kind of a bummer - because I won't be able to steal any of these great principles & practical wisdom - ha!  Seriously, I'm really excited to have this book impact their lives. 

Wild Goose Chase is so helpful & encouraging. Chapter Six was especially meaningful to me, here's a quick glance, "... sometimes a closed door is the very thing that gets us where God wants us to go. I've come to think of closed doors as divine detours.  And while our failed plans can be incredibly discouraging and disorientating, God often uses the things that seem to be taking us off our course to keep us on His course." (page 122) -- so, good.

Mark speaks truth without sugar-coating or compromise. The character and nature of God is obvious and attainable throughout.  It convicts, encourages and provokes.  Ultimately, I think you'll find yourself saying things like, "I can do this" ... "wow, he's totally talking to me" ... "I've got to share this with someone"... 

One of my all-time favorite books is The Pursuit of God, by A.W. Tozer - early in my life, it was so helpful to me in finding and living my path with God. I think this book can impact today's generation in similar fashion - I pray it does.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Summary:
Most of us have no idea where we’re going most of the time. Perfect.

“Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it’s like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something….

Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure.” --from the introduction.
 
Author Bio:
Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.

HOW TO GET IT:

You can buy this book for a great price on Amazon. 
Simply click the book: 

I also encourage you to check out:  chasethegoose - on this site, you can access Mark’s 10 Steps to Setting Life Goals. Great stuff!

IF you're holding out for a chance at receiving a FREE copy of this book: Leave a comment on this review - sharing: 1]  What's been the biggest distraction to your pursuit of God? 2] What, specifcally, has helped get you back on track?  3] Why should you WIN this book? C'mon, be creative (offer a good trade) - ha! The winner will be announced Thursday - be sure to provide a link, email or other way for me to contact you.  I'll cover the shipping costs.

... a biker blessing

Something cool just happened!  I was sitting in a Starbucks meeting with one of my staff guys, we were talking about our lives, and had our Bibles & journals open... all of the sudden, I heard in a rough voice, "is anyone sitting here?"  I looked up to see two 'biker dudes' (beards, tattoos, leather, long-hair, etc) standing there - we smiled and said, "nope, please sit down" - I love this kind of stuff!  So, my friend and I went back to talking about the Lord, our church, visions, burdens, passions, and others cool topics.  We were being open & honest - and, we were oblivious to the conversation of the men sitting next to us. They were eventually joined by a third friend.  I thought, to myself, what a unique paradox of guys this is - we (yeah, WE) were a pretty tough looking group of MEN! Ha!

Before, they sat down I had been sharing some personal stuff about how God had been leading me to 'peace' - IF you know me very well, you know I've never shy-ed away from 'conflict' and perhaps reveled in it.  But, I was just asked this week about our relationship with the Muslims, Catholics & others in our community.  A friend said, "are you experiencing attacks and conflicts from these religious groups?" and, I said, "no, they like us... respect us... and are thankful for us." - each time I share this, people look at me like this isn't right, they should hate you...almost as IF we are compromising in some way. I don't think we are... I'm just trying my hardest to keep obeying God and living the way He tells me to live.

So, back to the biker(s), as we were packing up, one of them spoke up and asked what I was studying, I told him I was a pastor & church planter and that we were talking about the Bible and seeking God's direction.  He smiled and said, "I have a word for you, my friend... 'when a righteous man lives to please the Lord, God causes even his enemies to be at peace with him'. That IS you, did you hear me? That word is about YOU.  Be encouraged buddy, you're being exactly what God wants." - whoa! You have no idea how encouraging this is and how timely it was.  I'm glad God used a unique messenger - I'm still wondering IF he was an angel... it wasn't all spiritual or preachy, it was straight-forward, without doubt or fear, and yet kind.  Very cool.

I've since looked the verse up and read it in every translation - it's Proverbs 16:7 - check out how the message puts it:  "When God approves of your life, even your enemies will end up shaking your hand." - I pray that this is my testimony in Hamtramck & Detroit ... I think it is...

• what 'unique' person has God used to bless you?
• are you sure that you're obeying God right now?
• interested in joining our team in Hamtramck?
• don't make me send a biker to 'convince' you! Ha!

An Olympic Attitude.

I have really been enjoying the Olympics this week!  I'm already mourning the thought of them being over... and, having to wait until the summer of 2012 for their return... ugh.

I think the thing that I have really enjoyed is how our country (and hopefully your country - wherever you're reading this from) has come together to cheer with ONE voice.  With all of the political drama in our country and even in my city, it's refreshing to see unilateral patriotism. No other agendas, angles or motives - just cheering for our athletes to do their best on this global platform.  We've laid down our 'party-lines' and reveled in the joys of excellence, triumph and teamwork.  We're focused on doing our best, winning the gold, being good representatives of our country.  You don't see athletes interviewed about their political affiliations, thoughts on the upcoming elections or evaluations of the war... no, we're interested in their personal stories that brought them to this moment in their lives.

Here's a thought, what IF we had such an 'Olympic attitude' in our approach to serving Christ and cheering on the soldiers of our Faith?!  Maybe we could stop allowing theological differences or worship styles to divide us.  Maybe we would be less worried about the church down the street and more focused on the lost across the ocean.  Maybe we would be less concerned about church carpet color or building design and more involved in ending world famine and debt.  Maybe we would stop being defined by terminology like emergent, missional, postmodern, traditional, or contemporary and become known by our service, love, consistency and hope! Maybe we could start cheering for the successes of other churches or leaders and stop with all the sarcastic, cynical, and woefully insecure comments.  Maybe we could ALL be focused on WINNING - yeah, defeating the devil - not the church down the street.  Maybe our gold-medal goal could be to see Jesus Christ, our Savior, King & Lord, exalted anywhere, proclaimed everywhere, and lived out all-the-time with passion & purpose... Hmmm.

One more:  maybe our over-priced conferences (more & more every year) would be less about patting each other on the back and more about kicking each other in the butt. And, that our newest ideas & strategies would come from praying more not paying more...

So, yeah, this is my Olympic dream... for our country, churches, friendships and callings. And, you know what? I think this dream is one of the devil's nightmares! 

Your Turn:

• what's been your favorite Olympic moment this week?
• are you surprised by the patriotism that has awakened?
• do you sense 'unity' above politics, economy or war?
• could this happen in the church or is my 'dream' just fantasy?
• what could/should we do, to regain our joy & focus?

livin' the Olympic'tude, Chilly

Detroit... city of Hope.

our infamous mayor spent the night in jail and was released this morning only to face new felony charges.  this ongoing saga, which includes sex, greed, lies and violence, continues to bring our city into national and international focus - for all the wrong reasons. in addition to the political demise of our cities infrastructure, we are continually facing a financial recession as our three automakers (GM, Ford & Chrysler) post losses into the billions. our housing market has collapsed, many businesses (like Starbucks) are closing throughout the city, and unemployment continues to rise. it's hard to find a positive conversation... 

hopelessness.

...things look bad.  But that's because we are peering through our human lenses and not the eyes of the Almighty.  He has not declared us or our city as hopeless. Instead, He is assembling a team of selfless, sold-out, servant-warriors to stand on every street corner that once sold lies, fear, hate and death; and declare His HOPE! I am one of them, and I am not alone!

When everything was hopeless, Abraham believed anyway, deciding to live not on the basis of what he saw he couldn't do but on what God said he would do... Abraham was declared fit before God by trusting God to set him right." But it's not just Abraham; it's also us! The same thing gets said about us when we embrace and believe the One who brought Jesus to life when the conditions were equally hopeless. The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God. Romans 4:17,19 msg.

I will not hang my head in despair. I will not complain or gossip.  I will live out my calling with joyful honor and obedience. I will declare, with my words and actions, that no matter how dark the night or impossible the circumstances, there IS hope! Through Christ, and Him alone, salvation is promised. HE is poised and ready to redeem!

God called me to Detroit. He has a plan and it is His mission that will succeed. I believe.

I am a hope-dealer.

Perhaps you're called to join us. IF so, COME quickly - there's work to be done! Perhaps He's asking you to fund us. IF so, GIVE quickly - your gift could be the miracle needed this week. Undoubtedly you're called to pray for us. So, PRAY quickly & continually - you're as close as the mention of His name.

Shouting HOPE, chilly

hmmm... 3

Ok, first of all, in order to follow all of this 'randomness,' you might want to read the previous three posts (hmmm..., hmmm...2, and my anthem). I've enjoyed emptying out the closets of my heart & mind - I've also really appreciated all of your comments.  It's been a fun string of posts.  And, yeah, there may still be more after this... we'll see.

the book ban

~ as many of you know, last year I read over 60 books - a lot of the postmodern, emerging stuff by all of the 'big names'... it became excruciating by the end.  So, God led me into 2008 by instructing me to ONLY read the Bible (or books that directly helped me study the Word - like commentaries). It's been awesome!  I've learned so much and I hope that those that I know or those that read my blog / check out my podcast have seen greater depth & insight.  Well, this week, I felt God release me to pick up a few books ... so, I'm carefully looking at a few titles.  You may notice this in the "I READ" section of my blog >>
       - I'm excited about adding insight into my life. 
       - What are you reading right now?

toothless tigers

~ I'm a fan of our Detroit Tigers... but, I'm so sick & tired of watching our team put up big numbers and shutdown the opposing teams bats ONLY to bring in some noodle-armed relief pitcher who gives up the lead and eventually, the win. I've said for 2 years that we need to can the pitching coach - but, no one seems to see that... oh well. Football season is upon us now ... go Steelers!

my label: Love

~ people desperately want to figure out what & who you are.  so, they use little words or phrases to describe you, sum you up and explain you to others. I don't like such labels. I'm discovering that my blatant avoidance of such titles has actually frustrated and angered people.  I deliberately refuse to be described by relevant words (emergent, postmodern, missional, etc) and I also refuse to align myself with any one person or school of thought (driscoll, bell, mclaren, wright, etc).  Looking for a label?  I like LOVE. I'm living a real love from a real God in a real world... authentic... period.

the 3rd place

~ what's happened with Starbucks?  yeah, I still love to drop in for a white mocha, iced double-shot, doppio con panna or a refreshing vivanno; but I don't like hangin' out there like I used to.  it was, for a season (or more), my 'mobile office' but now, I'm just not feelin' it...  maybe it's the head-phones all the barista's wear, maybe the inconsistent music or the overall lack of pride (worker & customer alike) that used to be there. Howard Shultz envisioned local outlets as a "third place" (beside home and work) to spend time, and store design is intended to achieve this. It was working... not anymore. Destroyed by their own ambition, greed and ________ (fill in blank) - they lost their focus - and all of the sudden paying double for a cup a coffee (that you can't get in small, medium or large) seems less desirable.  I hope that they can save themselves but it isn't looking good... stores are closing all over the place.  People can get a drink at McDonald's (any size) for $1. Ouch.
       - what are your thoughts about Starbucks?

hmmm... 4?

~ I'm still ready & willing to vent more... ha!  What are some topics or subjects that  you'd like to hear my take on? 

until then... peace.

always evaluating...

I'm continually seeking to express the mission and heart of  Real Church in a way that is reflected corporately and individually. Several years ago, and the beginning of this process, I came across the following list (which I've added to...). Now, as I look back at it, I have to smile as many (if not most) of these statements are being lived-out and expressed in a natural, Christ-like, way...  my church family & team are REAL!

Yet, we still have much farther to go...

Take a look at the list - think about it - and then, in the comments, add a line or two.  Also, feel free to talk about anything from the list that jumps out at you.  I'd really like to get lots & lots of feedback on this...

Dreaming of authentic faith communities where:

• We listen to and are obedient to God
• People who are not Christians become followers of God in the way of Jesus
• Those who are not involved in church would become an active part of it
• People are deeply connected to God in all of life; body, mind, soul and spirt.
• Servanthood is embraced and modeled
• Beauty, art and creativity are valued, used, and understood as coming from the Creator
• Culture is met, embraced and transformed
• Joy, fun and excitement are part of our lives
• The kingdom of God is increased in real ways in the world
• The Biblical story of God is told and contributed to
• Biblical justice, mercy, grace, love and righteousness lead the way
• Truth, honesty and health are a way of life
• We value innovation and are willing to take risks in order to bring glory to God.
• Worship of God is full, vibrant, real, and pleasing to God
• Faith, hope and love are the context for all
• Love is the hallmark
• The next generation of leadership is built up and leaders are servants
• Everyone is equipped to do ministry
• Joyful sacrifice happens in all areas of the believer's life
• God's Spirit takes precedence over all structures and systems
• Christian Community is the attraction to outsiders and the answer to questions of faith
• People participate in the kingdom of God in accordance with their abilities and gifts
• We are connected to, dependent on and serve the global Church
• Living miraculous is the norm
• Discipleship is not a program, it's a lifestyle
• People learn the ways of God and are encouraged to make it central to their lives
• Other churches are valued and supported
• Peoples' visions and ideas of ministry come to life
• Neighborhoods & communities are glad we exist
• Jesus is Lord of ALL

 I'm truly "listening"...   thanks. 

Much love, Chilly

what does 'old' really mean?

Yesterday, as my family journeyed across the city to the southwest side, affectionately called Mexicantown, we passed through the historic community of Corktown. It is there where the Old Tigers Stadium stands...  but not much longer.  Yes, it's demolition has begun (click picture to see).

 

I love the new stadium, Commerica Park, and understand that it was long overdue.  Yet, for some reason it was sad to see the old stadium face the wrecking ball.  No funeral.  No goodbyes.  Simply torn apart piece-by-piece.  In a few months, no one will even remember it or talk about it...  kind of sad.  I'm not even a sentimental person, but I'm old enough to remember watching games played at the stadium.  For years, this was one of the central gathering places for all of Detroit.  It was a place of fun, escape, laughter and adventure. Now it's a place of sadness, weeds, silence and neglect.

It's so easy to embrace the new and forget our history.  We grab our NIV, NLT or Message Bibles and literally laugh about the KJV.  We sing to Crowder, Hillsong, Fee, and Delirious and close the hymnals on Wesley, Newton, Watts and Luther.  Preachers like Charles Spurgeon, A.W. Tozer, Billy Graham, Charles Finney and G. Campbell Morgan are replaced on our shelves by T.D. Jakes, Joel Osteen, Max Lucado and John Piper.

My question:  is everything we're doing 'progress'?

humility is killing me

Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins - it is, in itself, the very essence of sin.  It's the stubborn and stupid refusal to let God be God... and this leads us to the incredibly foolish assumption that we can take His place. Pride attempts to dethrone God and enthrone ourselves.  Sin is self-deification.

And, as someone has wisely said, "I'm sure of two things: there is a God, and you're not Him."

It seems that many Christians today like to pride themselves in their humility. Ha.  Talking about how much you serve or sacrifice is nothing like Jesus. Plus, such silly self promotion robs you of any eternal rewards and certainly does not glorify God. Look at Paul's words about Christ...

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! Philippians 2:6-8.

• Where are you at with the whole pride thing?
• IF Jesus humbled Himself, why can't we?
• Prideful 1-2-3-4-5 Humble, where do you rank?
• How has pride robbed you of God's best?
• How can we live humbly without being cheesy?

killing pride/me (Gal 2:20), chilly

... more than feelings.

Mystical experience without moral
commitment is false religion. John Stott

Oh, we all love going to church and "feeling" the presence of God... but, where's our faith on Monday?  Why on earth do we choose 'goosebumps'  over 'grace'?  We can worship for an hour but can't stay focused for the Word more than a few minutes...  friends, sensing God is not the same as knowing Him.

Your thoughts?