At the end of June, some friends and I entered a race at Calloway gardens and  had a blast. I’ve been dreaming of how I could challenge people to grow mentally, physically and spiritually.  We all know that if you want to influence people to make a move, you’ve got to lead by example. People follow when you model. I saw this post by Mark Batterson  following this line of thought. ..If we are to lead people–we need to give them a reason to follow!  Discipline brings more discipline.  I know I’m at my best when I am kicking things up in the physical realm. Everything else flows from there… 

Oh–and by the way Paul, I’ll take your P90X challenge!!!

So we are still unpacking boxes but i can’t wait any longer. Tomorrow will be our 1st staff meeting that will begin a movement of churches. I love being in Columbus and meeting people who need Jesus.

Tomorrows meeting will focus on planing our launch team meetings and the missional events leading up to our Launch in January.  

   2 Highlights from the weekend:

       1.  Greg and Kendal’s wedding–great to see old friends

       2.  Kings Pastures Community Church–I can’t believe how gracious they were to us.  Pasto Gino is awesome.  What a great church!!

We will be in Columbus and just about a week and I can’t wait… Thanks for all of you who have given, prayed and dreamt with us. I know God is going to go awesome things!!!!!

We had very nice time with Shawn and Tricia last night at their home for dinner. As this year spent with Mountain Lake church comes to a close it was great to reminisce on all that has happened. 

We are grateful to Shawn, David and everyone with MLC and Church Planters.com. Our time with you has been one of the most valuable and refreshing times in our lives!!

As we leave you I want you to know that you have a made personal impact on my whole families lives.

THANK YOU!!!!

Yes that’s right…In this market!?!?  After finally listing our house it sold with being listed for only 2 months!

We pulled off the packing and loading with out a hitch. Thanks to 8 real friends who helped out.  Did you know that your real friends will help you move!

I am reminded of the verse—For I know the plans I have for you… Is that true or what. God you are always in control-Period-End of Story!!

It’s good to be in Gods will!!!!!

Hey we had a great time in Lynchburg visiting the Hindsons (Christys parents).  Dr Hindson should be getting released from the Hospital after being there for 90 days. He will have plenty of recovering to do at home so continue to pray.

While we were there we hiked up to the top of the Peaks of Otter. All my kids even J.D who is only 2 made it to the top with no help!!!  My kids are awesome.

I cant wait to see them grow up and do great things for God. I am already proud of them.

Here are a few nuggets from Rick Warren that I found—good stuff to remember…

If you wrestle with a pig you’ll both get dirty.”
“Define yourself or others will.”
“Bless those who curse you.“
“Separate fact from opinion.”
“Hurt people hurt people.”
“Insults are insecurities.“

Christy and I had an awesome time with Clay and Kim Nesmith.  They are two great people leading a great church. Barefoot is not even 3 years old and running almost 1000 people!  They are really reaching people who are far from God. I know God is going to do incredible things through this church. They have all the right stuff!!!

Every sunday evening after the service they do a  sunday “Wrap up” video podcast.  Clay must have been short on good ideas to have asked Christy and I to be on it… But it was fun. You can check it out here on clays blog. 

Here are some take aways from our weekend:

Believe Big—God loves people who trust totally in him

God loves to use Ordinary People

Give generously–Barefoot puts on a full blown breakfast for both morning services

Location, Location, Location–pick the most accessible spot to put your church. Barefoot has the most amazing facility in the best location!

Clay you and your staff are a cut above!  Thanks for your gracious hospitality while we were with you. I can’t wait to get together again!

I forgot to mention that Barefoot is in Myrtle Beach SC.  Yeah I know you think that we played the whole time that we were there—and you’re right. We had a great time.  We went to the movies and saw Iron Man, jogged on the beach, and watched millions of bikers driving up and down the road (it was bike week). Christy and I couldn’t help but rent a bike and get out on the road. Check out the pic…

The kids and I got up this morning and made Christy the best breakfast ever then went to Mountain Lake’s west campus. It was a great service–good enough to make Christy cry.  Then we went to lunch and played at the park.  Later the girls gave mom their version of a spa day while JD and I mowed grass. To top it all off, we sent her off to get a pedicure while we played and then had dinner.

Christy we love you and couldn’t exist without you. There isn’t anyone in the world that I would want to be my wife and the mother of our children.

 We are grateful to God for you!!!!!!

I’m in Austin TX today with Paul Peterson at a Church Planters Round table with some really sharp people.  Today we will have opportunity to continue to learn and develop partnerships. 
We fly back to the ATL tonight late and tomorrow my wife has me ropped in a garage sale.  My most favorite thing to do!?!?!?

Next weekend Christy and I will have a great opportunity to meet the pastor and staff at Barefoot Community church in Myrtle Beach.  Clay Nesmith is the pastor there. A real down to earth guy with a heart for God and people.