Well, I'm posting about once a month now and I'm not surprised. I'm not much of a blogger, never really claimed to be. I do believe that every now and then I'll have something significant to write about, but for now this is the best way for me to communicate the stuff happening with The Mission.
It's been roughly 6 months since we officially started The Mission. Right now I'm relearning for the millionth time that things take time, be patient, stay focused, don't get discouraged, and trust. Good Grief! You'd think I'd have figured these things out by now. I'm as convinced as ever that God is up to something in our midst, but sometimes the details get a little fuzzy. Here's what I'm struggling with right now:
Horizontal Leadership instead of Vertical Leadership. I'm so tired of the "up the ladder" form of leadership that has held the church captive for so long. I'm continually amazed at the amount of money I was paid in the church world to do a 1/4 of the work I do now at Walmart. The specialized, professional, and pampered pastor in today's churches mostly lead from the top, without any real involvement with the "Average Joe" in their community. How did we create such an organization? How have we managed to scrap the horizontal, intimately relational church of the first century, and turn it into a business run by "leaders" (that's church language for CEO). If you're wanting to pick a fight with me about deacons/bishops/elders of the first century church being equivalent to today's evangelical mega-church organizational chart, then bring it on.
Conversations about politics. I can't make any sense of how American politics and Jesus fit together. Frankly, I'm disgusted at myself for taking so much time to think and argue about this stuff. Wasted hours indeed! Enough said on that issue.
Money. Money sucks... both figuratively and literally. It sucks in the sense that it is THE most important thing in our lives ( I wish that statement weren't so true). And, it literally sucks the life out of me. Money and God. God and Money. Money is God or God is money. Which is it for you? Be honest!
Heat. My armpits are in a state of perpetual leaking. Since I work outside and underneath hot vehicles I'm slimy and sweaty all day.
People that don't get it. I wish I could just get everyone (as in Globally) to just listen to me. I promise I could fix you all.
OK, so I'm just being a little sarcastic about most of those things, except the pampered pastors and money. Every now and then you just need to let some things out and vent... so I did. In reality though, I'm blessed beyond my imagination to have a wonderful family and faith community. Things are a struggle sometimes. And, sometimes those sometimes are longer than others. But, we live now knowing that better will be in our future. People will meet Jesus. Lives will be changed. Justice and peace will happen.
Mission Update
The Mission Dayton is struggling through it's first summer. When five people are out of town it drastically changes the size of our group. Summer is just a tough time to do anything, especially continue the momentum from a very exciting spring. Fall is right around the corner though and we are nearing a move into our "next" meeting place. More details should be coming soon about that. In a few weeks, we will be starting a video series through Reggie McNeal's book, The Present Future: Six Tough Questions for the Church. I'm excited about The Mission being challenged to think outside the box about the church and it's place in our community. I'm praying for big things to happen in the life of our church as a result of this series.
I'm so grateful for all of you that support us with your prayers and resources. It's humbling to know that so many are willing to give up their money and time to help us. May the Lord continue to bless you as you seek Him. Until next month...
Peace,
BW
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Mission Update
All is well here in Dayton. We are very excited about Rachel Held Evans' book launch in July. Rachel is a participant and leader at The Mission. Her book is being published by Zondervan and is starting to get some pretty neat press. Please take a moment and visit her blog to learn more about her book. If you have gone through a faith crisis in your journey of following Christ, Rachel's story is bound to resonate with you.
In a few weeks we will celebrate together as a church our first baptism service. Chad, a regular guy that Jesus got a hold of a few years back, is ready to take the plunge. We're going old school down at the river. We are so thrilled to be a part of this big decision in Chad's life and pray that this will be the first of many more visits to the river.
I continue to forge relationships at Wal-Mart as the Service Manager in the Automotive Department. My new motto is, "I would really like to change the world, but will settle for changing your oil." I'm grateful for the opportunity to test my faith and contentment on a daily basis. It brings out a whole new meaning to Colossians 3:17. There Paul writes, "And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through him to God the Father." That seemed like such a no-brainer when I was in full-time ministry. Now, those words truly give me life and endurance. I live and work for a purpose far greater than my own comfort and satisfaction.
To those of you that have faithfully partnered with us through prayer and financial support, please know that our hearts are filled with gratitude. None of this would be possible without your willingness to be used by God to serve this community. Pray that we will continue to be good stewards of His many blessings. As always, stop by here on a regular basis for updates on The Mission. If you happen to be in the Dayton area and have not checked us out on a Sunday night, please feel free to stop by and hang out. Detailed information is available on our website.
Many Blessings,
BW
In a few weeks we will celebrate together as a church our first baptism service. Chad, a regular guy that Jesus got a hold of a few years back, is ready to take the plunge. We're going old school down at the river. We are so thrilled to be a part of this big decision in Chad's life and pray that this will be the first of many more visits to the river.
I continue to forge relationships at Wal-Mart as the Service Manager in the Automotive Department. My new motto is, "I would really like to change the world, but will settle for changing your oil." I'm grateful for the opportunity to test my faith and contentment on a daily basis. It brings out a whole new meaning to Colossians 3:17. There Paul writes, "And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through him to God the Father." That seemed like such a no-brainer when I was in full-time ministry. Now, those words truly give me life and endurance. I live and work for a purpose far greater than my own comfort and satisfaction.
To those of you that have faithfully partnered with us through prayer and financial support, please know that our hearts are filled with gratitude. None of this would be possible without your willingness to be used by God to serve this community. Pray that we will continue to be good stewards of His many blessings. As always, stop by here on a regular basis for updates on The Mission. If you happen to be in the Dayton area and have not checked us out on a Sunday night, please feel free to stop by and hang out. Detailed information is available on our website.
Many Blessings,
BW
Friday, April 30, 2010
Really Busy...
I've taken a new job at Wal-Mart as the Service Manager in the Automotive Department. It is a full time job that offers benefits. So, I pretty much had to take this opportunity. It is a much more demanding job with longer hours so I've not been posting on here as much as I would like.
The Mission is busily trying to find a "next" space to call home on Sunday nights. I say next because it will most likely not be permanent, but just a transitional space. Kaley has been so faithful in letting us use her home, but we are striving for a different identity than as a house church or small group Bible study. So, pray with us as we seek to move to a place where we can grow and impact the lives of this community.
Be sure to check out The Mission's website at www.themissiondayton.org.
The Mission is busily trying to find a "next" space to call home on Sunday nights. I say next because it will most likely not be permanent, but just a transitional space. Kaley has been so faithful in letting us use her home, but we are striving for a different identity than as a house church or small group Bible study. So, pray with us as we seek to move to a place where we can grow and impact the lives of this community.
Be sure to check out The Mission's website at www.themissiondayton.org.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Settling In...
After months of setting the foundation in place, The Mission is finally gaining some steam. We have introduced a number of new families into the fold and we're starting to think strategically about different ministry opportunities in the community. Still, the road ahead is long and winding. There's much to do in order for us to launch in September. Here are some specific prayer requests:
I get asked all the time what kind of church The Mission is and if we're an "Emergent" church. I never know how to answer those questions. We're just a church. A local expression of the Body of Christ wanting desperately to live out the life of Christ in this community. Whether or not we fit into the mold of what conservative evangelicals from these parts perceive as "right", I won't make any promises.
I'm sure in the days ahead there will be many more questions. People in the buckle of the bible belt tend to take very seriously some of what I consider the negotiable aspects of our faith. Things like end times theology, miraculous gifts of the Spirit, women in ministry, "being saved", and a variety of other issues. Notice I said that these things are negotiable. Meaning, they are important, but there's also a lot of wiggle room. When taken to the extreme, these topics can tend to divide more than they unite.
Quite simply, we will not take a definitive stance on most of these issues. Not taking a definitive stand spells trouble for a lot of folks around here. When you don't lean one way or the other you risk being labeled liberal or new age. I think I'm OK with that as long as anyone with questions or concerns is willing to sit down and have a meaningful conversation before jumping to false conclusions.
I'm thankful that God has allowed me to serve in the two very different churches over the last 15 years. I still consider both "my church" and the relationships formed over the years continue to impact my life today. As a result, I believe God has given me a unique perspective of the common ground shared by all of those that love and follow Jesus. It is my hope, and The Mission's as well, that we communicate through our lives the glory that can be brought to God by living in unity on this common ground.
These are exciting days for our little church. We need your support as we forge our way through the tough beginning stages. Pray for us! Pray that God would meet our needs in the way He sees fit. Support us financially if He leads. Join us on a Sunday night if you're interested or have questions. All the info you need can be found at www.themissiondayton.org.
10,000 more blessings,
BW
- A space to call our own
- Wisdom in developing a children's ministry
- Continuing to build up the bank account
I get asked all the time what kind of church The Mission is and if we're an "Emergent" church. I never know how to answer those questions. We're just a church. A local expression of the Body of Christ wanting desperately to live out the life of Christ in this community. Whether or not we fit into the mold of what conservative evangelicals from these parts perceive as "right", I won't make any promises.
I'm sure in the days ahead there will be many more questions. People in the buckle of the bible belt tend to take very seriously some of what I consider the negotiable aspects of our faith. Things like end times theology, miraculous gifts of the Spirit, women in ministry, "being saved", and a variety of other issues. Notice I said that these things are negotiable. Meaning, they are important, but there's also a lot of wiggle room. When taken to the extreme, these topics can tend to divide more than they unite.
Quite simply, we will not take a definitive stance on most of these issues. Not taking a definitive stand spells trouble for a lot of folks around here. When you don't lean one way or the other you risk being labeled liberal or new age. I think I'm OK with that as long as anyone with questions or concerns is willing to sit down and have a meaningful conversation before jumping to false conclusions.
I'm thankful that God has allowed me to serve in the two very different churches over the last 15 years. I still consider both "my church" and the relationships formed over the years continue to impact my life today. As a result, I believe God has given me a unique perspective of the common ground shared by all of those that love and follow Jesus. It is my hope, and The Mission's as well, that we communicate through our lives the glory that can be brought to God by living in unity on this common ground.
These are exciting days for our little church. We need your support as we forge our way through the tough beginning stages. Pray for us! Pray that God would meet our needs in the way He sees fit. Support us financially if He leads. Join us on a Sunday night if you're interested or have questions. All the info you need can be found at www.themissiondayton.org.
10,000 more blessings,
BW
Friday, March 12, 2010
Mission Update
Well, we set up a bank account! Man, there sure is a lot of paperwork and red tape to go through in order to set up a church. Our incorporation papers are being filed and we should start filing for 501c3 status soon. As you might remember, Carrie and I sent out support letters a few weeks ago, and the response has been amazing. We have received a little over $3800 dollars!!! If you are able to support The Mission, I encourage you to click here and partner with us on this incredible journey.
God continues to provide me with opportunities to build relationships with people I run into, and work with, at Wal-Mart. I had a great conversation with a lady just last night. Although much of what God is up to these days remains a little blurry, I think I'm starting to see some questions being answered.
On Sunday nights we are still plowing our way through The Gospel of John. The fact that he was most likely the oldest surviving eyewitness of Christ really does lend to the uniqueness of this Gospel. This week we will be tackling the difficult passages found in chapter 6 about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. Sounds kind of shocking doesn't it? I would love it if y'all would share your thoughts with me about this passage.
Finally, Carrie and the girls will be joining me in Dayton this weekend for good. We will be moving into an apartment on Monday. After 7 months of living in other people's homes, we will be together again. I can't wait!!!
Continue to pray for The Mission and it's future impact on this little community. Our hopes and dreams of bringing a "fresh set of legs" to the body of believers in Dayton is becoming a reality. Much love to you all.
BW
God continues to provide me with opportunities to build relationships with people I run into, and work with, at Wal-Mart. I had a great conversation with a lady just last night. Although much of what God is up to these days remains a little blurry, I think I'm starting to see some questions being answered.
On Sunday nights we are still plowing our way through The Gospel of John. The fact that he was most likely the oldest surviving eyewitness of Christ really does lend to the uniqueness of this Gospel. This week we will be tackling the difficult passages found in chapter 6 about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. Sounds kind of shocking doesn't it? I would love it if y'all would share your thoughts with me about this passage.
Finally, Carrie and the girls will be joining me in Dayton this weekend for good. We will be moving into an apartment on Monday. After 7 months of living in other people's homes, we will be together again. I can't wait!!!
Continue to pray for The Mission and it's future impact on this little community. Our hopes and dreams of bringing a "fresh set of legs" to the body of believers in Dayton is becoming a reality. Much love to you all.
BW
Friday, February 26, 2010
Among The People
Well, I'm closing in on my first month as a Walmart employee. I can't begin to describe to you how different it is to work there as opposed to my former jobs in ministry. Corporate bureaucracy, rules, and having to clock out for lunch at a certain time are all very different from what I'm used to. Since I'm a Customer Service Manager, I'm in constant contact with people, both other employees and customers, all day long. Throughout the day I usually have at least one moment, sometimes many, where I realize just how out of touch I've been with the way real people live and work. I've been a pastor for a long time now, but I've never lived and worked among the "real people". I pray that my current situation opens my eyes to unique ways and opportunities to shepherd.
It's very difficult, if not impossible, to understand how to care for the poor and vulnerable if you are not poor and vulnerable too. Have you ever had to depend on government assistance to pay for groceries or receive health care for your children? Until you understand the embarrassment and have received the judgmental stares, it will be very hard to truly care for those that do.
In the church world, especially student ministry, the phrase "incarnational ministry" gets thrown around a lot. The phrase describes a philosophy of ministry where a group focuses on a deeply relational strategy to reach and serve people. As you might know, the incarnation is a theological term describing the supernatural act of God becoming human and living among the people. So, it makes sense that we would try to model our ministries in a similar fashion. I know I've used it to describe my efforts in student ministry many times in the past. What doesn't make sense is how often we forget the full consequences of God's incarnation. It ended in torture, a cross, and death. Take a look at what Phil. 2:6-8 has to say:
If we are going to talk the talk of an incarnational ministry then there are a couple of things we should expect along the way. First, we have to empty ourselves and sacrifice our status and all that we have and hold dear. We must humble ourselves so that we can truly understand the people God has sent us to minister to. Then, we must prepare for the suffering that will come. Expect hurt. Expect trials. True incarnational ministry will not end with just deepened relationships. It will in fact, take your life.
I don't like where God has my family right now. I don't like not being comfortable. I don't like not knowing if we can afford the next month's expenses. I don't like having to clock in and be told when I can and can't go to lunch. My list of "don't likes" seems to grow by the minute these days. But, my ability to be content and peaceful also seems to be growing. What God is doing in me and my family's life is irrelevant to my likes and dislikes. He has placed me right in the middle of this messed up world by messing up my own world. He is in the process of emptying me of all that I thought I needed and cared about. The trials and hurt, and there's certainly more to come, are nothing more than the result of transitioning from living outside or above the people, to moving right into their neighborhood.
Any thoughts? What does, or would, it take for you to follow the path of living an incarnational lifestyle?
Here is a reality I have been exposed to over the last month:
It's very difficult, if not impossible, to understand how to care for the poor and vulnerable if you are not poor and vulnerable too. Have you ever had to depend on government assistance to pay for groceries or receive health care for your children? Until you understand the embarrassment and have received the judgmental stares, it will be very hard to truly care for those that do.
In the church world, especially student ministry, the phrase "incarnational ministry" gets thrown around a lot. The phrase describes a philosophy of ministry where a group focuses on a deeply relational strategy to reach and serve people. As you might know, the incarnation is a theological term describing the supernatural act of God becoming human and living among the people. So, it makes sense that we would try to model our ministries in a similar fashion. I know I've used it to describe my efforts in student ministry many times in the past. What doesn't make sense is how often we forget the full consequences of God's incarnation. It ended in torture, a cross, and death. Take a look at what Phil. 2:6-8 has to say:
6 He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. 7 Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! 8 Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn't claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death - and the worst kind of death at that: a crucifixion.
THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson
THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson
If we are going to talk the talk of an incarnational ministry then there are a couple of things we should expect along the way. First, we have to empty ourselves and sacrifice our status and all that we have and hold dear. We must humble ourselves so that we can truly understand the people God has sent us to minister to. Then, we must prepare for the suffering that will come. Expect hurt. Expect trials. True incarnational ministry will not end with just deepened relationships. It will in fact, take your life.
I don't like where God has my family right now. I don't like not being comfortable. I don't like not knowing if we can afford the next month's expenses. I don't like having to clock in and be told when I can and can't go to lunch. My list of "don't likes" seems to grow by the minute these days. But, my ability to be content and peaceful also seems to be growing. What God is doing in me and my family's life is irrelevant to my likes and dislikes. He has placed me right in the middle of this messed up world by messing up my own world. He is in the process of emptying me of all that I thought I needed and cared about. The trials and hurt, and there's certainly more to come, are nothing more than the result of transitioning from living outside or above the people, to moving right into their neighborhood.
Any thoughts? What does, or would, it take for you to follow the path of living an incarnational lifestyle?
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Support Letters In The Mail!
Yep, we've sent out our first round of support letters. This round went out to close family and friends on Saturday morning. Included in the letter is an update on the life and journey of the Ward family, and a section that asks for financial and prayer support over the next 18 months. Our goal is to raise $1500 of monthly financial support to supplement my income and help provide for general living expenses. Anything we receive above the $1500 will be placed into The Mission's general expense fund to be used on a variety of regular church expenditures. As we look to the future we are trying to plan for monthly expenses such as facility rental, curriculum for children, etc.
Our hope is that in 18 months The Mission will achieve financial independence. Until then, we are asking for folks from all over to partner with us to bring The Mission to life. Over the next few weeks, as the appropriate documents are filed, we will have a number of convenient online donation options. If you would like to download a copy of the support letter or donate now through PayPal, you can do so by clicking here.
We have already received a number of donations and are incredibly grateful for how God is providing for us. Please visit themissiondayton.org for more information about the church. As always, I will continue to post updates and items of interest here so that you can keep up with what God is doing in and through The Mission.
10,000 Blessings,
BW
Our hope is that in 18 months The Mission will achieve financial independence. Until then, we are asking for folks from all over to partner with us to bring The Mission to life. Over the next few weeks, as the appropriate documents are filed, we will have a number of convenient online donation options. If you would like to download a copy of the support letter or donate now through PayPal, you can do so by clicking here.
We have already received a number of donations and are incredibly grateful for how God is providing for us. Please visit themissiondayton.org for more information about the church. As always, I will continue to post updates and items of interest here so that you can keep up with what God is doing in and through The Mission.
10,000 Blessings,
BW
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)