-We had the largest regular service attendance in emc's 2 year history. As we approach 200 in attendance on Sunday mornings we are beginning to look to the future for how we can create space to handle 300-500 people on Sunday mornings. Emc-ers please pray for your leaders as we begin to look at solutions that will help make healthy growth possible over the next few months and into the end of 08.
-My mind goes back to our first series of the year..."Epic 08". Truly the first quarter of 08 has measured up to be an epic three months. Emc-ers enjoy being part of what God is doing in this "story of unfolding greatness". God is authoring an epic tale and we have front row seats...no we all together are key characters in His story for our lives, church, and city!
-EMC I'm loving being your pastor!
-Our three big announcements:
#1 Echo Students will begin to meet at the Jaycees club house on Rope Mill Road on April 16th. The youth have had a great time while meeting at Lindsay's house but they have outgrown the environment. Echo, enjoy your new location as you continue to reach your generation.
#2 We have a place that is ours 7 days a week! The new creative offices of embassy metro church are now located above the Woodstock Pharmacy in downtown Woodstock.
#3 The biggest announcement of the day is that we brought our worship/media pastor on full time. I am so stoked about Jared being full time. It was too cool that we made the announcement today because today is Jared's B-day. Happy birthday bro...now get back to work!
Embassy, we are in exciting times. Remember as we grow, acquire facilities, hire staff, and do all the other things that a thriving movement does, don't forget that it isn't about any of those things. What it's all about is Jesus, helping people find him, helping them become fully devoted followers of Christ, and watching Jesus change their lives forever!
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Special Announcement Sunday
-I can't wait to tell you our two special announcements on Sunday.
-I want to give you a hint, but you are just going to have to be there. See ya Sunday.
-Bring a friend with you this week as we get into our second week of the "Life Bytes" series.
-I want to give you a hint, but you are just going to have to be there. See ya Sunday.
-Bring a friend with you this week as we get into our second week of the "Life Bytes" series.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
Easter weekend; Heaven and Hell!!!
*Front page of the Sunday paper. (not sure what's up with the color of the image)
-Our weekend was completely off the hook...Incredible!
-We let more people know about the "over the top" love of Christ in one weekend then I ever could have imagined. Heaven.
-Before I say anything about the egg drop let me say that Sunday was one of the best bigs days we have ever had at the embassy. We didn't do much different then what we do every week. It seems like for us we are at our best week to week. When big days come we end up wearing ourselves out before we start. Not this time. We strategically decided no crazy props this year, no special artists, features, elements etc. Oh we had pictures for families, and balloons and candy for the kids, but if you visited this week you experienced us as we are. This doesn't mean that we won't have a big day ever again with a huge city scape stage set-up, football goal posts, or any of the other crazy ideas we have done. This week we just wanted to be sure we had time and focus spent with our guests and fellow emc-ers. Heaven
-Sunday went so smooth and thank God because as you'll read on you'll see how nuts Saturday was. We had a bunch of guests from all walks of life. I love the diversity that is embassy. Polo wearing IT guys standing talking to tattooed twenty somethings. Business ladies serving along side of domestic goddesses. I loved that I got to spend this weekend with Biker Bob, Rocker Russ, and Ex-stoner Ed...combined hair length 7 ft...opportunity to be their pastor=priceless!!! I can't wait to see many of our guests come back next Sunday. We loved having you and look forward to you being a part of our community of faith, love, and acceptance. Heaven.
-We had over a dozen people commit their lives to Christ yesterday. Praise God! Heaven.
OK Now let's talk about the egg drop:
-Over *5000 people came to Woodstock's Largest Easter Event. I could not have been more proud of all of our volunteers. Yeah you got pushed, cussed, and treated pretty badly by a lot of unruly parents, but you maintained your desire to show people Christ's love and I thank you. Heaven and Hell. (*Being told by a couple sources who are experienced with big crowds that the event had between 5000 and 8000 people in attendance. I hate to elevate numbers. We can with confidence say over 5,000 people. I am so blown away)
-The parents were crazy one lady was helping her 17 year old gather 200 eggs in a garbage bag. Ok the 17 year old part is a lie, but literally a parent was flat out fillin her kids garbage bag up while acting like she didn't hear the closest field attendant's attempt to stop her. Hell.
-To be honest it was, insane, messy, frustrating, and awesome all at once.
Woodstock get ready for next year. We will find a location that will work for this event. We will have at a minimum 100,000 eggs. The event will be a few hours long with
jump houses and tons of activities. We will figure out a away to keep parents from acting like two year olds. And our field attendants will have Tazers!!!
-To be honest a few bags of eggs didn't make it out of the helicopter. We had those rushed to the field. Every kid that hung around got eggs. We also had prizes left over after the prize eggs were redeemed. So we were able to give most of the "eggless" kids something to go home with.
-Woodstock: Give us another chance on this one. We planned, prepared, prayed, and worked our butts off. In the end we just never knew. Well, we know now and get ready because The Woodstock Egg Drop 09 will be one of the largest gatherings of any kind in Woodstock History. Heaven and Hell.
-Woodstock: We love you, God Loves you, and We hope to see you at Embassy Metro Church this Sunday at the Cherokee 16 Cinemas 10:02am. Heaven.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Woodstock Egg Drop: Brief Update
-I can't thank all of our volunteers enough. You rock! Today was an absolutely amazing day and as we expected the biggest thing embassy has ever been a part of.
-1200 family registration cards filled out. Many with multiple children. We ran out of cards quickly and hundreds of children didn't get registered, but they still were able to be a part of everything.
-Our best estimate until we take everything into consideration was about 5,000 people. That's more than twice the amount of people we anticipated!
-That's insane! The problem was...that's insane! We never thought we would have that many at a first year event. We had some logistical errors, but on a whole the kids had a blast.
-Next year we will have tens' of thousands of more eggs. Our nearly 11,000 eggs was no way nearly enough. For that I apologize. Next year we will fix our errors. Woodstock we can't wait until The Woodstock Egg Drop 09 when we bring it to you on a whole new level.
-The Jaycees have been awesome to partner with on this event. Thanks Woodstock Jaycees.
-Finally pray for the many that will come to the embassy tomorrow from this event. We are going to have a great Easter Sunday! See ya in the morning at 10:02am!
-1200 family registration cards filled out. Many with multiple children. We ran out of cards quickly and hundreds of children didn't get registered, but they still were able to be a part of everything.
-Our best estimate until we take everything into consideration was about 5,000 people. That's more than twice the amount of people we anticipated!
-That's insane! The problem was...that's insane! We never thought we would have that many at a first year event. We had some logistical errors, but on a whole the kids had a blast.
-Next year we will have tens' of thousands of more eggs. Our nearly 11,000 eggs was no way nearly enough. For that I apologize. Next year we will fix our errors. Woodstock we can't wait until The Woodstock Egg Drop 09 when we bring it to you on a whole new level.
-The Jaycees have been awesome to partner with on this event. Thanks Woodstock Jaycees.
-Finally pray for the many that will come to the embassy tomorrow from this event. We are going to have a great Easter Sunday! See ya in the morning at 10:02am!
Friday, March 21, 2008
The Buzz about The Woodstock Easter Egg Drop
-The phones have been ringing off the hook. The families around Woodstock are pumped. Tomorrow's Easter Egg Drop is going to be a blast.
-The event starts at 10am at Hobgood park, but if you want a close parking space get there early. Parking attendants will point you to overflow parking if necessary.
Overflow parking will be at Bascomb Elementary. From there you can walk over to the softball fields or wait for a shuttle.
-This will be the biggest day emc has been a part of and we can't wait.
-See you there!!!
-The event starts at 10am at Hobgood park, but if you want a close parking space get there early. Parking attendants will point you to overflow parking if necessary.
Overflow parking will be at Bascomb Elementary. From there you can walk over to the softball fields or wait for a shuttle.
-This will be the biggest day emc has been a part of and we can't wait.
-See you there!!!
D-fat: Pastor's Weight Loss Challenge Update
Some of you know that Jared our worship/media pastor and myself entered a weight loss challenge with several church planters that we know. Well below is an update on how we've been doing. May 1st is the finish of the challenge so wish us luck!
By the way in October I had hit 270 pounds. That's crazy. So Since then I have lost 49 pounds. Too cool. Thanks for all your encouragement and for calling me a "fat pastor" every time I picked up a donut at church. OK you didn't call me names, but you could have. Thanks!
Starting weight: 2-22-08, Ross 240, Jared 234; Total 474
Week 1 weight: 2-29-08, Ross 234(-6), Jared 224.5(-9.5); Total 458.5(-15.5)
Week 2 weight: 3-7-08, Ross 226(-8), Jared 224(-.5); Total 450(-8.5)
Week 3 weight: No Weigh-ins. The Tornados took off with the scales
Week 4 weight: 3-21-08, Ross 221(-5), Jared 216(-8), Total 437(-13)
Team Embassy Total lost in four weeks: 37 pounds
By the way in October I had hit 270 pounds. That's crazy. So Since then I have lost 49 pounds. Too cool. Thanks for all your encouragement and for calling me a "fat pastor" every time I picked up a donut at church. OK you didn't call me names, but you could have. Thanks!
Starting weight: 2-22-08, Ross 240, Jared 234; Total 474
Week 1 weight: 2-29-08, Ross 234(-6), Jared 224.5(-9.5); Total 458.5(-15.5)
Week 2 weight: 3-7-08, Ross 226(-8), Jared 224(-.5); Total 450(-8.5)
Week 3 weight: No Weigh-ins. The Tornados took off with the scales
Week 4 weight: 3-21-08, Ross 221(-5), Jared 216(-8), Total 437(-13)
Team Embassy Total lost in four weeks: 37 pounds
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Easter Egg Drop Buzz
-Everywhere I go today people are talking about the Egg Drop at Hobgood Park.
-Over 10,000 candy filled eggs, 2 ipod nanos, 2 $100 wal mart gift certificates, $100 in small bills:1's,5's,10's. And tons of stuffed animals and other prizes. It's going to be insane!
-6,000 elementary students will receive the invite for Saturday's event. We were given permission to invite every elementary student in Woodstock.
-All of the Daycares and Preschools in Woodstock will be invited today and tomorrow.
-The Jaycees gave out 400 Easter baskets. They included an invite card in each one.
-Our people have invited friends, family, and neighbors like crazy the past week.
-Nearly 10,000 invite cards and the 6,000 school invites have went out.
-Saturday is going to be insane. This will be the biggest community event emc has done to date.
-Tell everyone you know, plan to serve, and have a blast as we go over the top in showing the love of Jesus to our community this weekend!!!
-Over 10,000 candy filled eggs, 2 ipod nanos, 2 $100 wal mart gift certificates, $100 in small bills:1's,5's,10's. And tons of stuffed animals and other prizes. It's going to be insane!
-6,000 elementary students will receive the invite for Saturday's event. We were given permission to invite every elementary student in Woodstock.
-All of the Daycares and Preschools in Woodstock will be invited today and tomorrow.
-The Jaycees gave out 400 Easter baskets. They included an invite card in each one.
-Our people have invited friends, family, and neighbors like crazy the past week.
-Nearly 10,000 invite cards and the 6,000 school invites have went out.
-Saturday is going to be insane. This will be the biggest community event emc has done to date.
-Tell everyone you know, plan to serve, and have a blast as we go over the top in showing the love of Jesus to our community this weekend!!!
Monday, March 17, 2008
First Day Back at the Gym
Today was interesting. I wasn't able to meet with my trainer so I just decided to do my own thing for the day. I haven't lifted in 2 1/2 weeks because of my surgery and doctors orders. Today is the day I've been planning on going to the gym. I couldn't wait to get at it again.
I got there and my trainer came over and wisely told me to take it easy. She's an RN and was concerned that I ease back into my regimen. Well if you know me you know I don't ease into anything. I hit it for 35 minutes doing every lower body exercise I could remember. I then did core exercises using the elevated bench and bouncing the medicine ball from side to side. Followed by the roman chair with leg lifts, and then the crunch machine. I then did a plank for as long as I could hold it. Man I felt great. I felt strong and light. I was loving it. Well now off to get a book and my ipod so that I can get in 40 minutes of cardio.....or NOT!
On the way to get my stuff I began to talk with a pastor friend of mine. As Pastor Norman Hunt was telling me about some things happening at his church I began to see stars. Within a few seconds the stars grew into big white clouds until all I could see was Norman's mouth. Well I knew something was wrong, but I thought I could fake it 'til I made it. Nothing doing. His voice grew too quite to where I couldn't even hear him. At this point I knew something wasn't right. See I have never passed out before, but that was just about what was going to happen. I said to Pastor Norman.."Man I need to sit down I think I'm about to pass out."
How embarrassing. I get seated he tells me to do the whole head between the legs thing. One trainer is putting a wet compress on my neck. My trainer has run over with juice and a banana. Within a few minutes I'm ok. Debbie the trainer is like "I told you to take it easy". Well I have learned my lesson. Sometimes in life there are things you need to ease into. One of those apparently is exercise after surgery, while still medicated. Go figure.
I got there and my trainer came over and wisely told me to take it easy. She's an RN and was concerned that I ease back into my regimen. Well if you know me you know I don't ease into anything. I hit it for 35 minutes doing every lower body exercise I could remember. I then did core exercises using the elevated bench and bouncing the medicine ball from side to side. Followed by the roman chair with leg lifts, and then the crunch machine. I then did a plank for as long as I could hold it. Man I felt great. I felt strong and light. I was loving it. Well now off to get a book and my ipod so that I can get in 40 minutes of cardio.....or NOT!
On the way to get my stuff I began to talk with a pastor friend of mine. As Pastor Norman Hunt was telling me about some things happening at his church I began to see stars. Within a few seconds the stars grew into big white clouds until all I could see was Norman's mouth. Well I knew something was wrong, but I thought I could fake it 'til I made it. Nothing doing. His voice grew too quite to where I couldn't even hear him. At this point I knew something wasn't right. See I have never passed out before, but that was just about what was going to happen. I said to Pastor Norman.."Man I need to sit down I think I'm about to pass out."
How embarrassing. I get seated he tells me to do the whole head between the legs thing. One trainer is putting a wet compress on my neck. My trainer has run over with juice and a banana. Within a few minutes I'm ok. Debbie the trainer is like "I told you to take it easy". Well I have learned my lesson. Sometimes in life there are things you need to ease into. One of those apparently is exercise after surgery, while still medicated. Go figure.
James gets to go home
Yesterday we laid to rest James Harbour. Many of you remember he and Linda from our early days of starting EMC. Linda was the lady with the oxygen that I thought was going to blow up the back row during last years Palm Sunday service.
This amazing couple faithfully for years took their grandkids to church. When emc began they were with us even back at the coffee house. Their grandkids loved the embassy so they came. They were so cute always apologizing for missing services so they could go off to a gospel sing or good old fashion revival meeting. EMC was a bit much for them, but they came for their grandkids. Not only did James come...James jumped right in there and helped too.
I loved it that he laid his personal taste aside so that his grandkids could connect with God. He never did get use to our "rock and roll" worship, but he loved Amie and I , and he loved emc. What I love most is that through all of that his son Jimmy came to visit emc and is now a Christ follower. James Sr. doesn't have to bring those kids any more, why the baton of faith was passed. His son Jimmy the father of the grand children brings them every week. Jimmy serves on our set up team and along with his kids once a month serves in the children's ministry.
That's what I'm talking about!!! I know when James came into the presence of Jesus he heard the words we all hope to hear...."Well done my good and faithful servant."
James and Linda I was only your pastor a short while, but I would like to say to you..."Well Done"
This amazing couple faithfully for years took their grandkids to church. When emc began they were with us even back at the coffee house. Their grandkids loved the embassy so they came. They were so cute always apologizing for missing services so they could go off to a gospel sing or good old fashion revival meeting. EMC was a bit much for them, but they came for their grandkids. Not only did James come...James jumped right in there and helped too.
I loved it that he laid his personal taste aside so that his grandkids could connect with God. He never did get use to our "rock and roll" worship, but he loved Amie and I , and he loved emc. What I love most is that through all of that his son Jimmy came to visit emc and is now a Christ follower. James Sr. doesn't have to bring those kids any more, why the baton of faith was passed. His son Jimmy the father of the grand children brings them every week. Jimmy serves on our set up team and along with his kids once a month serves in the children's ministry.
That's what I'm talking about!!! I know when James came into the presence of Jesus he heard the words we all hope to hear...."Well done my good and faithful servant."
James and Linda I was only your pastor a short while, but I would like to say to you..."Well Done"
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A Little Attention from the AJC
Our Woodstock Egg Drop got a little attention today in the Atlanta Journal Constitution. There was an article about one church doing an egg drop. Then they listed three other churches in the metro area with all their egg drop info and websites.
EMC was one of those three churches. Oh yeah I would have loved the article, but the church and pastor that got it are great friends who are putting a ton into their event and they deserve the props.
The article was on the front page of the lifestyle section. Not sandwiched into the religious or Cherokee County paqes, but in the main paper that hits all of Metro Atlanta. Too cool.
If you live in Woodstock you don't want to miss next Saturday The Woodstock Egg Drop. It will be at Hobgood Park 10am.
EMC was one of those three churches. Oh yeah I would have loved the article, but the church and pastor that got it are great friends who are putting a ton into their event and they deserve the props.
The article was on the front page of the lifestyle section. Not sandwiched into the religious or Cherokee County paqes, but in the main paper that hits all of Metro Atlanta. Too cool.
If you live in Woodstock you don't want to miss next Saturday The Woodstock Egg Drop. It will be at Hobgood Park 10am.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Thoughts About Unleashed
-The Unleashed Conference at NewSpring was incredible.
-Perry Noble has got to be one of the most amazing communicators I have ever heard. I know in the years to come we will learn a great deal from this pastor and this church.
-It's great to know so many amazing guys and churches that are making an impact all around the country. I am proud to be a part of the divine move of God that He is stirring through church planters.
-The best thing about the day: Having my guys with me at the conference. Embassy, we are blessed to have Jared, Robby, and Brantley. After Perry's last session, and our time together on the way home, I really believe they would charge the gates of hell with me and for me.
-Ok...so let's charge the gates of hell!!!
-I am looking forward to taking dozens of emc-ers with us next year to Unleashed.
-EMC I can't tell you enough that we are in for an amazing ride! I am full of anticipation for the next few weeks...and am dreaming already about our next five years!
-What could God accomplish through a group of people who just imagine the dreams of God and then act on them! You are that people and I am so jacked that I am your pastor.
-Perry Noble has got to be one of the most amazing communicators I have ever heard. I know in the years to come we will learn a great deal from this pastor and this church.
-It's great to know so many amazing guys and churches that are making an impact all around the country. I am proud to be a part of the divine move of God that He is stirring through church planters.
-The best thing about the day: Having my guys with me at the conference. Embassy, we are blessed to have Jared, Robby, and Brantley. After Perry's last session, and our time together on the way home, I really believe they would charge the gates of hell with me and for me.
-Ok...so let's charge the gates of hell!!!
-I am looking forward to taking dozens of emc-ers with us next year to Unleashed.
-EMC I can't tell you enough that we are in for an amazing ride! I am full of anticipation for the next few weeks...and am dreaming already about our next five years!
-What could God accomplish through a group of people who just imagine the dreams of God and then act on them! You are that people and I am so jacked that I am your pastor.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
I Should Be in Bed
I can't wait for tomorrow. Myself, Jared (worship/media), Robby (youth), and Brantley (children) are heading up to New Spring Church in Anderson, SC for a one day conference. The Unleashed conference has become one of the greatest tools for releasing passion for ministry in the nation.
I am so amped about the conference and about getting to be with my guys for the day. Right now I am the only full timer at emc. We don't get the day to day time that a lot of staffs enjoy. Tomorrow is going to be off the hook. Well I need to force myself to sleep because 5am will be here in no time.
I am so amped about the conference and about getting to be with my guys for the day. Right now I am the only full timer at emc. We don't get the day to day time that a lot of staffs enjoy. Tomorrow is going to be off the hook. Well I need to force myself to sleep because 5am will be here in no time.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Health Update
Last night I strung 5 hours of sleep together for the first time since the surgery. I am actually able to breathe with out feeling choked up. The swelling in my throat seems to have diminished in just the past 24 hours.
I am not dozing off at the drop of a hat anymore and I am able to talk somewhat clearly. What a difference a day makes. 11 days into this recovery and I feel 85% finally. This really has been the slowest thing I have recovered from, but I am on fully on the mend and can't wait to get back to 100%. It is amazing to not have had a headache in a week and a half. Before the surgery I had 3-5 headaches a week. The doctor said he felt this surgery would help and it looks like he was right. For that alone it was worth it.
I have also dropped 10 pounds since the surgery weighing in this morning at 224. That is 46 pounds less then when I started at 270 in October. I had to buy another pair of jeans because the pair I bought last month are too baggy to look proper. I'm not allowed to lift anything for 14 days so I am looking forward to getting back in the gym next week. My goal was to be 225 by Easter. I have surpassed that. I guess I need to set a new goal for the next couple months. I do love feeling better and that's what it's all about.
I am not dozing off at the drop of a hat anymore and I am able to talk somewhat clearly. What a difference a day makes. 11 days into this recovery and I feel 85% finally. This really has been the slowest thing I have recovered from, but I am on fully on the mend and can't wait to get back to 100%. It is amazing to not have had a headache in a week and a half. Before the surgery I had 3-5 headaches a week. The doctor said he felt this surgery would help and it looks like he was right. For that alone it was worth it.
I have also dropped 10 pounds since the surgery weighing in this morning at 224. That is 46 pounds less then when I started at 270 in October. I had to buy another pair of jeans because the pair I bought last month are too baggy to look proper. I'm not allowed to lift anything for 14 days so I am looking forward to getting back in the gym next week. My goal was to be 225 by Easter. I have surpassed that. I guess I need to set a new goal for the next couple months. I do love feeling better and that's what it's all about.
Don't Miss the Next Three Weeks
You don't want to miss the next three weeks at emc. This Sunday we have an amazing experience planned. If you were with us for Palm Sunday last year you already have a clue. We will worship, receive communion, and experience Christ's sacrifice in a unique and memorable way. Also this is the week that we are digging deep, swinging hard and giving our "Imagine" offerings.
Next Sunday is Easter weekend. Get the the kids...get the whole neighborhood out on Saturday 22nd for the Woodstock Easter Egg Drop at Hobgood Park. And on Sunday...You, your family, and everyone you know will want to be at the embassy for this day of celebration. God has given me something to share that you will want your family and friends who are far from God to hear. Plan to bring at least one other person/family with your to Easter at the Embassy. Come early for family photos and for the extended cafe (lot's of extra good stuff and fruit for the day).
Then on March 30th I want everybody that calls emc home to be at the embassy. Don't miss this day. We will be making a very important and exciting announcement. I can't wait to tell you.
OK emc-ers we are in for some exciting days ahead.
Next Sunday is Easter weekend. Get the the kids...get the whole neighborhood out on Saturday 22nd for the Woodstock Easter Egg Drop at Hobgood Park. And on Sunday...You, your family, and everyone you know will want to be at the embassy for this day of celebration. God has given me something to share that you will want your family and friends who are far from God to hear. Plan to bring at least one other person/family with your to Easter at the Embassy. Come early for family photos and for the extended cafe (lot's of extra good stuff and fruit for the day).
Then on March 30th I want everybody that calls emc home to be at the embassy. Don't miss this day. We will be making a very important and exciting announcement. I can't wait to tell you.
OK emc-ers we are in for some exciting days ahead.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Crazy Easter Video
The media team at embassy metro church has put together a hilarious video to promo Easter this year through the web. Check it out and forward it to all your friends.
EMC now has a Myspace
I love the community of faith that EMC has become. One way that we can all stay connected and get the word out about coming events is through Myspace.
Join the emc myspace community today!
Join the emc myspace community today!
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Kindness in action
We have all heard of kindness in action. Someone in a moment engages another person in a random act of kindness that asks nothing of the other. Well today I experience a KIA or maybe it was more a KMIA. Kingdom Mindedness in Action.
The whole easter egg drop is not original with embassy although we'll never act like it wasn't our idea. A couple of years ago Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC hosted one for their city. Over the past two years churches around the nation have jumped on the chance to do something that will blow the kids minds. Most egg hunts are a little hard to get too excited about, but having a helicopter bringing the Easter bunny to the kids while dropping thousands of eggs…that’s over the top. We want to go crazy over the top for the kids in this area so they will know that Jesus is crazy over the top for them!
Well were are not the only ones who want the kids in their community to think that Jesus is the best party going. Revolution Church in Canton is hosting a Canton Egg Drop. Oak Leaf Church in Cartersville is hosting a Cartersville Egg Drop and Embassy Metro Church in Woodstock is hosting a Woodstock Egg Drop.
Potentially thousands of children in these three communities will see the over the top love that God has for them on Saturday March 22nd. Be praying for these events. Help serve at these events. And get involved with these churches that are willing to go all out to reach the people of their communities.
I was surprised today to experience a "random act of kingdom mindedness." A letter and a check came from Gary the lead pastor at Revolution Church as he wished us and our event huge success. Too cool!
Gary, Michael...I can't wait to hear about the huge success in your events as well. Just stay out of the helicopter and everything else should go as planned.
The whole easter egg drop is not original with embassy although we'll never act like it wasn't our idea. A couple of years ago Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC hosted one for their city. Over the past two years churches around the nation have jumped on the chance to do something that will blow the kids minds. Most egg hunts are a little hard to get too excited about, but having a helicopter bringing the Easter bunny to the kids while dropping thousands of eggs…that’s over the top. We want to go crazy over the top for the kids in this area so they will know that Jesus is crazy over the top for them!
Well were are not the only ones who want the kids in their community to think that Jesus is the best party going. Revolution Church in Canton is hosting a Canton Egg Drop. Oak Leaf Church in Cartersville is hosting a Cartersville Egg Drop and Embassy Metro Church in Woodstock is hosting a Woodstock Egg Drop.
Potentially thousands of children in these three communities will see the over the top love that God has for them on Saturday March 22nd. Be praying for these events. Help serve at these events. And get involved with these churches that are willing to go all out to reach the people of their communities.
I was surprised today to experience a "random act of kingdom mindedness." A letter and a check came from Gary the lead pastor at Revolution Church as he wished us and our event huge success. Too cool!
Gary, Michael...I can't wait to hear about the huge success in your events as well. Just stay out of the helicopter and everything else should go as planned.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Please Pray :)
I usually get through pain with no problems. I'm the guy that had his humeral head broken off his arm and into four pieces. I then waited 10 hours before going to the hospital. Crazy. This time it's different and I feel like a wimp, but I'll admit it..."I've been whooped."
The healing process took a detour today and I have been just about "out my mind" in pain. My nose and sinuses feel great, but my throat feels like a roto-sander spent the better part of a Saturday afternoon on it.
I guess it's all a part of the process ,but I would implore your prayers at this time.
The healing process took a detour today and I have been just about "out my mind" in pain. My nose and sinuses feel great, but my throat feels like a roto-sander spent the better part of a Saturday afternoon on it.
I guess it's all a part of the process ,but I would implore your prayers at this time.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Sunday Remix 3-02-08
-The doctor said I needed to get up and about so I decided to drop into the greatest church around! I went to the embassy today. I was so proud to see how well things go when I'm gone.
-Mary and the worship band did an amazing job and the presence of the Lord in the service was palpable. It was also great having Celeste play keys today for the first time at emc.
-Jared our worship pastor transitioned so smoothly into lead teacher for the day that it makes me a little nervous about my job security. No really you did a great job bringing God's word today. Thanks Jared!
-All of you emc-ers just make me so proud. I love you and am so glad we are all getting to do life together at the embassy. We have an amazing future as God continues to do great things in and through you at emc.
-From 4:45-6:15 I was at the doctors office. He sucked, scraped, and pulled all sorts of things out of my sinuses. Oh My Gosh! Imagine the dentist office, but instead of your mouth they're doing all the stuff to your nose and sinus membranes. I thought I was going to die. Oh well...I can already breathe better than I can ever remember.
Please pray for my quick recovery. Easter is coming soon and we have too much going on for me to slow down. I will take it easy the next 2-3 days, but then It's back in the fast lane.
-Mary and the worship band did an amazing job and the presence of the Lord in the service was palpable. It was also great having Celeste play keys today for the first time at emc.
-Jared our worship pastor transitioned so smoothly into lead teacher for the day that it makes me a little nervous about my job security. No really you did a great job bringing God's word today. Thanks Jared!
-All of you emc-ers just make me so proud. I love you and am so glad we are all getting to do life together at the embassy. We have an amazing future as God continues to do great things in and through you at emc.
-From 4:45-6:15 I was at the doctors office. He sucked, scraped, and pulled all sorts of things out of my sinuses. Oh My Gosh! Imagine the dentist office, but instead of your mouth they're doing all the stuff to your nose and sinus membranes. I thought I was going to die. Oh well...I can already breathe better than I can ever remember.
Please pray for my quick recovery. Easter is coming soon and we have too much going on for me to slow down. I will take it easy the next 2-3 days, but then It's back in the fast lane.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Weight loss Update
OK I know I just came off of surgery, but I'm still pretty amped about my current state of health.
If I would have had this surgery when I weighed 270 I think I would feel like dying right now.
So where am I at in the whole weigh loss thing...since October I have lost 38 pounds.
Right now I am at 232. This has been achieved through exercise and good nutrition. I have not been on a fad diet, a fast, or weight loss supplements.
I have although had a great systems of friends backing me up. Amie my wife, Deb my trainer, and the whole emc family that keeps me going with their encouragement.
I am committed to being the best and healthiest husband and leader I can be. Thanks guys!
BTW: Team Embassy is rockin after the first week of the D-fat Competition!
If I would have had this surgery when I weighed 270 I think I would feel like dying right now.
So where am I at in the whole weigh loss thing...since October I have lost 38 pounds.
Right now I am at 232. This has been achieved through exercise and good nutrition. I have not been on a fad diet, a fast, or weight loss supplements.
I have although had a great systems of friends backing me up. Amie my wife, Deb my trainer, and the whole emc family that keeps me going with their encouragement.
I am committed to being the best and healthiest husband and leader I can be. Thanks guys!
BTW: Team Embassy is rockin after the first week of the D-fat Competition!
I'm Alive
On Thursday I underwent what turned out to be some serious time under the knife. For over five hours Dr. Edwards reworked my sinus cavities, took my tonsils, adenoids, and the tip off my uvula.
I guess they found a bone spur growing into my sinuses. That can't be good. Dr. Edwards told the family that this was one of the worse sinus conditions he had ever seen. He was surprised I didn't affect me more.
I can already breathe through my nose more clearly than I can remember. I know I am going to feel like a million bucks once I recover. Right now...I hurt. I hurt really bad. Not only do I hurt the pain medicine I am taking keeps knocking me out. I'm suppose to stay awake and walk around, but I just keep falling to sleep. The family took me to the mall today and I ended up dozing off while standing up.
It was like the family was walking the neighborhood drunk around the mall, but the Dr. said I needed to be up and moving.
With that in mind I plan on being at emc tomorrow. I want to pay Jared back for sleeping during my talks. So if you hear any snoring from the dark corners of the theater, it is probably me.
Thanks for all the prayers and concern. Ya'll are the best!
I guess they found a bone spur growing into my sinuses. That can't be good. Dr. Edwards told the family that this was one of the worse sinus conditions he had ever seen. He was surprised I didn't affect me more.
I can already breathe through my nose more clearly than I can remember. I know I am going to feel like a million bucks once I recover. Right now...I hurt. I hurt really bad. Not only do I hurt the pain medicine I am taking keeps knocking me out. I'm suppose to stay awake and walk around, but I just keep falling to sleep. The family took me to the mall today and I ended up dozing off while standing up.
It was like the family was walking the neighborhood drunk around the mall, but the Dr. said I needed to be up and moving.
With that in mind I plan on being at emc tomorrow. I want to pay Jared back for sleeping during my talks. So if you hear any snoring from the dark corners of the theater, it is probably me.
Thanks for all the prayers and concern. Ya'll are the best!
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