A New Definition of Greatness

I recently came across Martin Luther King's "The Drum Major Instinct" speech. The above video is a short excerpt taken from this speech that he delivered on February 4, 1968 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Here is a link to the entire message.

The "drum major instinct" is the urge we all have to promote ourselves, to seek greatness, to promote our own agenda, or to edge God out. It's the common state of all mankind.

But Jesus says to His followers, "It shall not be so among you!" Jesus has given us a new heart, a new nature, and a new model of leadership. Jesus has given us a new definition of greatness.

You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love. You can be that servant!

Mark 10:35-45

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” 

“What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.

They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.”  

“You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?”  

“We can,” they answered. 

Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.”  

When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John.  

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,  and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.  For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Calling All Men

My Dad

The Pew Research Center just released a new study titled, A Tale of Two Fathers. In 1960, only 11% of children in the U.S. lived apart from their fathers. By 2010, that number had risen to 27%.

Fathers’ living arrangements are strongly correlated with race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status as measured by educational attainment. Black fathers are more than twice as likely as white fathers to live apart from their children (44% vs. 21%).























69% of Americans believe having a father in the home is essential for a child to grow up happily. Yet one out of four children in the US are growing up without a father in their home.

Fatherlessness is a growing crisis in America, one that under girds many of the challenges that families are facing. When dads aren't around, young people are more likely to drop out of school, use drugs, be involved in the criminal justice system, and become young parents themselves.

President Obama grew up without his dad, and has said that being a father is the most important job he has. That's why the President is joining dads from across the nation in a fatherhood pledge – a pledge that we'll do everything we can to be there for our children and for young people whose fathers are not around.

I'm thankful for a dad who was there for me as a child. A dad who loved me, provided for our family, taught me valuable life lessons, loved my mother and sacrificed so that I could have opportunities that he didn't have.

Growing up, my dad was my hero. And 60 years later I still admire and respect him. I've been given a rich heritage. And I've also had the privilege of passing the Pagel name and family reputation on to my four sons.

Me and Deshawn, my Lunch Buddy

Our families long for and deserve our best. Men, let's step up to our responsibilities in our families and in our community. Let's be the men that our sons and daughters aspire to become like.

Let's mentor boys and young men in our community into manhood. Become a Lunch Buddy at Polk School, coach a sports team, become a Boy Scout leader. Our children and our community are counting on us.

Defend the cause of the poor and the fatherless! Vindicate the oppressed and suffering!  Psalm 82:3

Servant Leaders

We had a great Deacon Meeting last night. Dave Sanders had the devotional. He titled it, Top Ten Things You Should Never Hear A Servant Leader Say. I thought you would enjoy this!

1o. Enough about you. Let's talk about me!
9. That's not my job. We have others who do that.
8. That's not my gift.
7. That was really my idea.
6. I'd like to, but that's the night I sort my socks.
5. I'll see your 30 years of service and raise you two.
4. It's not worth the effort. No one will notice anyway.
3. I don't know them, so I don't need to smile or even say hi.
2. Sorry, I'm saving this seat for a friend.
1. Hurry honey! We have to get their early to get a good parking space.

Thanks Dave! And thanks for being such a great example of servant leadership! But I have one more statement that you need to add to your list. Here is the eleventh thing you should never hear a servant leader say: "I don't know. I'm only a deacon!"

My Daily Bread

It was a great day today. Over 75 volunteers worked together distributed over 2 1/2 semi-truck loads of water today to the public. I learned on Sunday afternoon that Serve the City wanted New Covenant to take the responsibility for staffing the water distribution site at Sams.

Over two hundred people filled out volunteer forms on Sunday at New Covenant. I handed the forms off to Arliss Bailey, and with the help of Austin Spooner, Arliss input all the data in our Arena data base. Arliss and several others began calling those who indicated an interest in volunteering, and by Sunday evening we had all three shifts for Monday staffed up.

Kudos to Arliss, Austin, those who made phone calls and all from our church family who distributed water on Monday. You all did a great job. I couldn't be more proud of New Covenant and all those who served today! And, we have another great team scheduled to begin work tomorrow morning at 8:00 AM. You can click on the picture above to see a slide show of the day.

We heard countless stories of loss and devastation. I talked to one man who came to pick up water with his adult son. His house is still under water. He said he made his last house payment last March. One of our volunteers and her husband recently moved to Cedar Rapids. They purchased a boat house to live in during the summer. They can't find any trace of the boat house. It's gone with all their belongings. They are without a home.

Serving like this in a time of need helps to keep life in perspective. We have so much and take so much for granted. Reflecting back on the day, I'm reminded of Proverbs 30:7-9

Two things I ask of you, O Lord;
do not refuse me before I die:
Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.
Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you
and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’
Or I may become poor and steal,
and so dishonor the name of my God.

Touching Them All

You've got to watch this video by ESPN's Tom Rinaldi regarding Western Oregon's Sara Tucholsky. In a day when sports headlines have more to do with the off-field misbehavior of superstars, this story reminds us about what is good and right with athletic competition. That there is something more important than winning and loosing. And that the kind of person we are becoming will last long after our playing days are over.

My favorite line from the video segment: "It's a great moment when someone has character to step up and do the right thing at the right time."

Enjoy the video. Might we all be inspired to do the right thing at the right time!

Give An Account

Maybe you've already heard the news. Senator Charles Grassley has said enough is enough. Senator Grassley, the top Republican on the Senate Finance Committee said Tuesday he's investigating the finances of six well-known TV evangelists. Thank you, thank you, thank you Senator Grassley!

In a statement, Grassley said he was acting on complaints from the public and news coverage of the organizations. "The allegations involve governing boards that aren't independent and allow generous salaries and housing allowances and amenities such as private jets and Rolls Royces," Grassley said. "I don't want to conclude that there's a problem, but I have an obligation to donors and the taxpayers to find out more. People who donated should have their money spent as intended and in adherence with the tax code."

Senator Grassley sent letters to the half-dozen TV evangelists earlier this week requesting answers by December 6 about their expenses, executive compensation and amenities, including use of fancy cars and private jets. This culminates a two year investigation into the financial impropriety of independent ministries who lack accountability and adequate oversight.

None of the ministries being investigated by Senator Grassley belongs to the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. If they did, ECFA President Ken Behr says they'd be asked some of the same questions — about the independence of their governing boards and whether tax-exempt donations are properly spent on evangelists' lavish lifestyles.

I will wait until all the evidence is in before forming a final opinion. But I applaud Senator Grassley for asking these high-profile ministries to comply with existing tax law. No one is above the law. And in this case, the reputation of the cause of Christ is on the line.

In a culture that is progressively becoming more secular and unchurched, followers of Jesus Christ need to walk the talk. We are the body of Christ. We need to model Christ to a world that is skeptical and calloused to spiritual things. And it starts with leaders who understand how to serve.

Take the time to write Senator Grassley to thank him for taking a stand. It's time for accountability and integrity. It's time to give an account.

Stewards

I just got back from our fall Elder, Deacon and Staff Retreat. Our fall retreat always focuses on sharing our five year ministry plans and vision. It's an awesome experience, listening as each ministry shares their plans, their hopes and their dreams for the next five years. Wow! I always leave these sessions charged up and ready to trust God for big things!

During the past year we have begun to recognize our staff on their 5th, 10th and 15th employment anniversary dates. Last night we recognized Mark Forstrom for 15 years, Colette Rieck for 9 years, Pat Rieck for 5 years, and Mick Schultz for 5 years. Mick was unable to attend the retreat so I don't have a picture of him. This is a new tradition, so we are playing "catch-up" with some of our staff who have been here awhile.

There were several bonus surprises thrown in during the weekend. We used the 9'x17' screen and projector that we plan to use at our multi-site location. It was pretty awesome seeing Pastor Bob projected "larger than life!" A special "thank you" to Pastor Gary and Dan and Karen Kalen for setting up the equipment. We also showed version 2 of the "fly through" of our new facility. It's pretty exciting stuff!

You can click on the picture above to see a slide show of our retreat. If you look carefully, you will see a clue regarding what card game some of the staff played last night!

This morning Pastor Bob shared about several of the important challenges that face us this coming year:

• Our Embracing Faith capital stewardship campaign next February and March with a goal of raising $10 million
• The Serve the City Share Event next July
• Our multi-site initiative

Pastor Bob challenged us to be stewards of the message and people God has given us to care for. We are His servants, caring out His mission. We want to hear the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

It will be an exciting next six months! We want to be faithful to do our part, and to trust Him to do what only He can do. We are His servants; His stewards.

I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness–the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. Colossians 1:25-29

Can You See It?

This being Clergy Appreciation Month, I want to share some thoughts regarding the great staff team I have the privilege of working with on a regular basis. This morning I was reading 2 Thessalonians 3 and came across these verses:

For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow. vs 7-9

I'm thankful to work with men and women who seek to model what they teach. Who don't expect others to do what they are unwilling to do themselves. Who practice what they preach. "Real deal," servant-leaders who I love to follow because of the strength of their character.

Our staff aren't perfect by any means. But as we come together in unity, to share in our common mission, a beautiful pattern emerges out of our brokenness. As Pastor Bob mentioned last Sunday, "Can you see it?" Can you see the heart of Christ?

Let me tell you what I see.

• In Erin Bird I see faithfulness and thoroughness modeled. With Erin, every small detail and every person is attended to with care and thought.
• In Mark Eades I see a tender heart for God and middle school students modeled. With Mark, every student is important and every contribution appreciated.
• In Mark Forstrom I see creativity and humility modeled. With Mark, every generation and every student needs to discover a relationship with God in new and fresh ways.
• In Gary Hoobler I see a heart of worship modeled. With Gary, worship impacts the way he lives his life 24/7.
• In Tye Male I see a passion for God and people modeled. With Tye, life is an adventure to be experienced, not just talked about.
• In Colette Rieck I see a tender heart for children and the "least of these" modeled. With Colette, children are a treasured gift to be loved and valued.
• In Pat Rieck I see a love for adventure, action and big challenges modeled. With Pat, women are constantly challenged to push beyond their comfort zones as they ask the question, "So what?"
• In Mick Schultz I see the unrestrained joy and enthusiasm of a child modeled. With Mick, families are the place where faith in Christ is best explained and lived out.
• In James Wartian I see a passion for helping people understand the Word of God and a Christian worldview modeled. With James, everyone has a place in the mission, regardless of their age or occupation.
• In Bob Westfall I see the heart of a disciplemaking pastor who leads with authenticity and integrity modeled. With Bob, what you see is what you get, Flying Wienie and all!
• In Thomas Burris I see a young man who desires to see God use his life to make a difference for the kingdom. With Thomas, God's Word is valued and students are loved.

Can you see it? I think I see a pattern emerging. One that reflects the heart of God.

If you see it too, take time this week to jot our staff a note of appreciation. You will be blessed, the cause of Christ will be advanced and our staff will be encouraged!

Call Me Boring

The National Basketball Association playoff finals are going on right now. Tim Duncan's San Antonio Spurs are playing LaBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers. I don't watch NBA basketball but the finals are sometimes fun to follow.

I'm intrigued by all the media hype LaBron James has received and all the negative criticism that Tim Duncan and the Spurs have received. LaBron is new, exciting, confident, and brash. He has been anointed the next savior of the NBA. Wow! Pretty big shoes to fill.

Tim Duncan aka "The Big Fundamental," is described as old (he's 30!), dull and boring! Watching the Spurs play basketball has been likened to watching paint dry. And what has Tim and the Spurs done to deserve this kind of criticism? All they do is win basketball games and championships in a professional, team-oriented style of play. The Spurs have been recognized as the model NBA franchise that all others should seek to emulate.

Please spare me! Isn't this what professional sports is supposed to be all about? Isn't success measured by championships? I don't know about you, I don't mind being called boring as long as you also call me "Champion!"

The problem is that athletics have become more about entertainment and less about competition. Big egos, large super-star contracts, charismatic personalities, and unfulfilled expectations litter the sports landscape on the way to championship rings. In the end, it's almost always the team who quietly plays good defense, executes on offense and plays together well as a team who wins championships.

And what has Tim Duncan accomplished during his 10-year NBA career? Tim Duncan is a three-time NBA champion and a three-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player. He has also won the NBA Most Valuable Player twice, and was voted into nine All-Star games, ten All-NBA teams, and ten All-Defensive teams. Many basketball experts consider him to be one of the greatest power forwards in history

In addition, as a college player, he was named ACC Male Athlete of the Year, won the John R. Wooden Award and was named Naismith College Player of the Year (all 1997). In his rookie year in the NBA (1998), he was voted Rookie of the Year and elected into the All-NBA Rookie Team. Duncan is one of only four players to receive All-NBA First Team honors in each of his first eight seasons (1998-2005), along with Hall of Famers Bob Pettit (10 seasons), Larry Bird (9 seasons), and Oscar Robertson (9 seasons), and is the only player in NBA history to receive All-NBA and All-Defensive honors in his first nine seasons (1998-2006). Duncan was also named by the Association for Professional Basketball Research as one of "100 Greatest Professional Basketball Players of The 20th Century", being the youngest player on that list.

Not a bad resume' for such a boring guy! You won't be reading about Tim Duncan being arrested for animal endangerment. You won't be reading a newly released book by Duncan criticizing his teammates and coaches. You won't be hearing his name associated with a steroid investigation. And you won't be seeing his mug shot on national news regarding felony charges related to weapon possession at a local strip club. How boring!

Tim Duncan is a classy, stand-up guy who quietly goes about his business and wins championships. He knows that winning is more about substance than style, team-work rather than individual accomplishment. In this age of super-star egos, Tim Duncan is a flat-out winner.

So go ahead, call Duncan boring if you must. But just remember, you also must call him Champion!

Servant and Leader

I found an interesting article by Jim Bolt at FastCompany.com. Bolt's firm, Executive Development Associates, Inc., asked heads of executive/leadership development to identify leaders who had a reputation for being great at developing leadership talent. They interviewed 20 "role model" leaders from 16 companies.

The study reveals how top executives spot and develop leadership talent. But the part of the study that I found the most interesting is what causes rising stars to suddenly derail and crash.
The study asked the role-model leaders what derailment factors they look for in both High Potential Executives and Emerging Leaders. These were the most frequent responses:

• Ego - 53%
• Developed too quickly - 36%
• Self serving - 30%
• Repeated failure - 29%
• "One trick pony" - 23%

Two of the interviewee comments were especially interesting. Remember now, these comments were made by some of the top "role model" leaders who are adept at developing effective leaders.

"If they have strong results, but they sacrifice team members or the bigger picture, or are too self-serving, they would no longer be considered high potential."

"They might have expectations of the rate that they are going to move up. They think that they should be moving up very quickly and when they don't, they lose patience. They can become disillusioned."

Maybe Jesus knew something about leadership development after all. And maybe the business community is learning that an effective leader needs to know how to deal with their ego. And maybe the Scriptures have something to say about effective leadership. And maybe the words servant and leader belong in the same sentence after all.

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45

The God Who Is Near

Jill Stutts sent me this slide show that tells the story about a multi-national humanitarian mission that Bill was part of. The event took place outside of Kabul, Afghanistan on April 6 of this year. Over 3000 Afghan people received free medical care and clothing. The slide show is long but well worth your effort. Make sure your sound is turned up so you can also enjoy the music!

Jill is planning to ship used clothing to Afghanistan to be distributed in a similar way. You can read more about the project on one of my previous posts here.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Be A Blessing

Bill Stutts is serving with the National Guard in Kabul, Afghanistan. Jill and his girls are collecting second-hand clothing and shoes to ship to the Afghan people. They are collecting clothing through May 1 and will then ship whatever they have. You can read more about the project on Jill's blog.

Here is what Bill writes about the need for used clothing.

"Just got your e-mail and I think any hand me downs of clothes and children's shoes, in any condition within reason. Remember, this is the second poorest country in the world behind Haiti. These people have nothing and would be happy to get clothing. They almost riot when it is handed out. The women are the most aggressive to get things for themselves and their children. The Afghan police and Army doing security, will tend to let their friends in first and it has to be very well controlled as they are so desperate to get these things. Blankets and comforters are are also good. Any season clothing is OK."

So let's round up those shoes and clothes that we don't need and get them to Jill. Let's help Bill be a blessing to the Afghan people.

The Head of the Church

We had a great Elder, Deacon and Equipping Staff Retreat this weekend. We have two retreats a year, one in the spring and one in the fall. The focus of our spring retreat is on building relationships and sharing ministry updates.

As per our custom, we presented framed Timothy Botts prints to our out-going Elders and Deacons. We are thankful for Jerry Livingston, Steve Powell, Roger Kolb, and Weir Nelson and their servant leadership.

We also presented framed Timothy Botts prints to Erin Bird and Mark Eades who have reached their five year milestones at New Covenant. It hardly seems possible that they have been with us that long! It's a joy to co-labor with each of them.

We welcomed new Elders Dave Rubsam and Jeff Akey, and new Deacons Tom Scanlon, Jay Schlichting, and Mark Griffioen. We look forward to how God is going to use each of them in the coming year.

In addition, we had a great time of worship and had several times of prayer. We had updates on prayer, care and share; and from the Relocation Team; we discussed intentional disciple making principles from the book Simple Church; had a time of sharing ministry successes and challenges; and of course we had a great time of fellowship during our meal times.

You can click on the picture above to see a slide show of our retreat. I'm so thankful for the leadership of Don Purdy on our Elder Board and John Maurice on our Deacon Board. These are men of incredible integrity and spiritual maturity. It's an honor to follow their leadership.

We have a challenging year in front of us but we have a big God. He is able. He is worthy. And He is the head of the church.

Oh Happy Day

Yesterday was Jackie Robinson Day in Major League Baseball. It was a great day of celebration. Individual players and even entire teams wore number 42 in tribute to Jackie Robinson. But the person who stole the show, in my opinion, was Rachel Robinson, Jackie's wife.

Rachel Robinson, the founder of The Jackie Robinson Foundation, was given the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award yesterday during the Sunday's ceremony at Dodger Stadium. The award was presented by Commissioner Bud Selig and honors Rachel Robinson for her "contribution and sacrifice to the legacy of her husband," who passed away in 1972.

Rachel Robinson is the first woman to receive the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award. She founded the Jackie Robinson Foundation in 1973 as a public, not-for-profit organization to serve as an advocate for young people with the greatest need. Under Mrs. Robinson's leadership, JRF has awarded scholarships to 1,200 students from 43 states and the District of Columbia, totaling over $14.5 million.

During the television broadcast of the Dodgers and Padres game last evening, Rachel Robinson joined announcers Jon Miller and Joe Morgan in the booth. She was witty, intelligent, charming, and gracious. Rachel Robinson is one incredible lady! The pre-game show featured a black gospel choir singing Oh Happy Day, Jackie and Rachel Robinson's favorite song.

Oh happy day (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
Washed my sins away (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)

It has been said that Jackie Robinson could not have achieved what he did without Rachel at his side. During his ten year playing career, Rachel attended every Dodger home game. She wanted to make sure that when Jack (as she calls him) looked up into the stands, that he would see at least one person who was cheering for him!

Growing up, Rachel was a determined young woman who knew what she wanted. Listen to what she said attracted her to Jack as transcribed in this 2005 interview.

And then he was – another trait that he – I saw a lot of and – is my favorite and most important one, is a humility about him that I liked. I cannot tolerate arrogance and self importance and all those kinds of things and he had none of that and he just came in and blended in with the students and kind of accepted their greetings of him in a positive way and so between – I started assessing who he was before I – he actually mattered.

Rachel was a young woman with a strong faith in Christ. She describes growing up in her home.

My life centered around Bethel AME Church. My mother was very, very protective and we were not allowed to go very far unchaperoned. But we could go to church anytime, day or night and hopefully, that’s where we were going on her part. And so we would go to church, Bethel. I sang in the choir; I later on began to teach Sunday School until I got to college and so the church was the center of our life for all social things as well as for religious services and that kind of thing.

She met Jack at UCLA when she was a freshman and he was a senior. Jack was the big man on campus and starred in football, basketball, track and baseball. A relationship began but Rachel didn't want to get married until she graduated from nursing school, which led to a five year engagement!

Rachel's father wasn't thrilled with Jackie at first, but her mother approved.

My mother on the other hand was very enthusiastic. She was all very excited and she thought he’s a Christian man; she knows he goes to – he goes to church, he talked about he always prays and he – his spiritual beliefs were there for everybody to examine, he was very close to his church. His best friend was Carl Downs who was the Reverend in his church and so she thought he was ideal in – in every way and had great prospects and she – the only thing she complained about, at the dinner table he told her that he didn’t eat vegetables; that he only ate potatoes and sometimes a tomato. And so she said, “Well, I don’t know how he’s going to manage, you know” and she knew that I was – I’m a – vegetables and fruits and you know, a healthnik and all that. And how are you going to make out with this man that just eat meat and potatoes, you know?

Here is what Rachel has to say about her goal orientation.

I always had five year plans. From the time I was ten years old I had five year plans. I really did. And they, you know, and they give you a sense of direction and – and things to strive for and you know what steps you have to take and I’ve been doing that all my life.

Rachel's sense of direction and purpose has led to many accomplishments in her own right. She became a psychiatric nurse at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, The Director of Nursing at Connecticut Mental Health Center, and Associate and an Assistant Professor in Clinical Psychiatry at Yale School of Nursing.

Today, Rachel describes herself as "an energetic, loving, caring person who's deeply spiritual." She said that she and Jack were "the perfect match." They were true team mates. Jackie's work is finished, Rachel's continues on. Their lives are intertwined by their shared passion to make a difference.

Jackie Robinson said that "A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives." Our world is better today because of the courage and commitment of Jackie and Rachel Robinson. As far as we have come, there is much left to do. There are goals to strive for and dreams yet to reach. But until that day, we remember our Jesus who has washed our sin away. Oh happy day!

No. 42

To the average American the number 42 is meaningless. To those associated with Major League Baseball, number 42 is sacred. 42 was the number worn by Jackie Robinson. The number was issued to him at random during his rookie season, and it's the number he proudly wore on his Dodgers uniform from April 15, 1947 until the end of the 1956 season.

Robinson retired in 1956 and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1962. But it wasn't until ten years later that tensions between Robinson and Walter O'Malley, the team's owner during that era, thawed enough for Robinson to return to the ballpark on the day the Dodgers retired his number.

In 1997, on the 50th anniversary of Robinson breaking the color barrier in the Major Leagues, Commissioner Bud Selig retired No. 42 throughout baseball, grandfathering in only the players then wearing the number. Mariano Rivera, who joined the Yankees in 1995, is the only active player still wearing Robinson's number.

On Sunday, Selig "unretired" the number for a day. Many players, and a few full teams, including the Dodgers, will wear No. 42 in honor of Robinson.

It's ironic that in spite of the trail Robinson blazed, the number of American blacks on major league baseball teams continues to drop. Participation of American blacks declined from 28% in 1975 to 8.5% today. Baseball may still be referred to as our "national pastime," but increasing it is becoming an international sport. In 2006, 27% of the major league players were foreign born.

But on Sunday, April 15, we pause to recognize the accomplishment of one of the greatest men to have ever played the game of baseball. Jackie Robinson excelled on and off the field. His memory and heritage continue on.

Jackie Robinson once said, "A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives." Jackie Robinson impacted a city, a game, a nation, and an entire culture. Number 42 lives on.

Time To Take A Stand

By now you've heard more about the Don Imus story than you have ever wanted to know. I never listened to Don Imus, don't care for him or the values he represents. This post isn't about Don Imus but rather Vivian Stringer

I became acquainted with Vivian Stringer from afar when we moved back to Iowa in 1991. She was the University of Iowa women's basketball coach from 1983-1995. I admired her leadership, the way her teams played and most of all, the way she handled her husbands death in 1993.

But I'm not the only one who has admired Vivian Stringer's character and work. In recognition of her many accomplishments and service to the game, Stringer was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame on June 9, 2001. She was named the National Coach of the Year three times by her peers. She also was named the 1993 Coach of the Year by Sports Illustrated, USA Today, Converse, the Los Angeles Times and the Black Coaches Association; the District V Coach of the Year in 1985, 1988 and 1993; the District I Coach of the Year in 1998; the Big Ten Coach of the Year in 1991 and 1993; the Big East Coach of the Year in 1998 and 2005; and the 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2005 Metropolitan Basketball Writers Association Coach of the Year. One of her most personally-gratifying accolades is the 1993 Carol Eckman Award, which acknowledges the coach demonstrating spirit, courage, integrity, commitment, leadership and service to the game of women’s basketball.

A finalist for the Naismith National Coach of the Year Award five times, Stringer was honored by the U.S. Sports Academy when the organization decided to name its annual women’s coaching award in her honor. The C. Vivian Stringer Medallion Award of Sport for Women’s Coaching was handed out for the first time in July of 2002. In 2003, she was recognized by Sports Illustrated as one of the “101 Most Influential Minorities in Sports,” and during the summer of 2004 she received the Black Coaches Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

All that to say, when Vivian speaks, people listen. This lady walks the walk and has earned the right to speak and be heard. Many analysts believe that Vivian Stringer's press conference was the tipping point in the Imus saga. She put a face on the innocent victims - all 18-20 year old girls, and eloquently talked about her past and the pain that these careless words had inflicted. She wept as she shared from her heart. Her 2o minute press conference speech is a must read. Mr. Imus messed with the wrong woman.

Vivian recounted a traumatic incident when she was 16. There had never been a minority cheerleader in her high school. Friends encouraged her to try out but she was reluctant, fearing the consequences. Listen to Vivian tell the story.

As my father approached me about this, I said no. And he said some things that would ring true to me. It was a life-altering experience. And he said to me, “Vivian, if you don’t stand up for something, you’ll fall for anything. And you know what, this might not be about you or for you. But it is for future generations of young women that you need to make a stand. And I’ll leave you with that. Go to sleep and make your decision in the morning.”

Vivian went on to become the first minority cheerleader in her school, paving the way for other young women who followed in her foot steps.

Listen to the final words from her press conference.

And I say to them, to their parents, I thank them for entrusting me with their lives. I understand the magnitude of my responsibility. And with every breath in my body I will defend them, because I am honored, I am proud, so very proud and so fortunate that the good Lord has allowed me to be a coach. That’s an awesome responsibility.

And so to my coaches and to my team, I thank them. They have no reason to drop their heads. We hold our heads high with dignity, and as my father said, “with respect for ourselves.” And I ask that everyone, everyone who can hear my voice, please understand that we all need to make changes. We all need to make changes. Yes, it happens to be Mr. Imus, but beyond Mr. Imus, it’s all of us.

Do we understand what’s going on in our society? And maybe these young people who taught us, you know, how to be winners on the basketball court can also serve as examples of winners in life. You know in the Bible they say, even a child shall lead. Perhaps the babes will lead. These are smart ladies. These are classy young women. These are very bright young women. And I am thankful to this university for allowing me to serve as their coach and to all of the people who have been associated with them.

Vivian didn't ask to be thrust onto the stage for all the world to see. She didn't want to have to stand up in a press conference to defend the character of her team. She didn't want her Final Four appearance to be marred with controversy.

But Vivian learned at a young age from a father who loved her to not back down from a bully. She learned to hold her head up high with dignity. She learned to serve and lead with grace. She learned how to grieve losses in life that are larger than a won-loss record. Vivian learned how to forgive those who inflict pain and hurt. Vivian Stringer is a strong woman who knows when it's time to take a stand.

Just A Midwest Boy From Iowa

Lightening struck at Augusta National Golf Course Sunday afternoon metaphorically speaking. The course beat the field up this week leading to the highest winning score at the Master since 1956. One golfer after another faltered and stumbled this afternoon, and at the end of the day, Zach Johnson stood alone as the 2007 Masters champion!

Zach staved off a late challenge by Tiger Woods on the back nine. It was the third time Woods lost a lead during the final round of a major, and the first time he failed to get it back.

In a moving ceremony in Butler Cabin, Phil Mickelson, last years winner, presented the fabled "green jacket" to Zach Johnson. During the presentation ceremony, Jim Nance commented to Zach, "You know that as Masters champion, your entire life will change." I love Zach's response! He told Jim Nance, "My professional life will change, but I will continue to be the same person as I was before winning the tournament. I've got supportive people around me who will see to that. I'm just a midwest boy from Iowa."

I had tears in my eyes as Zach spoke those words. I had the awesome privilege of hearing Zach and his wife Kim, speak at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes banquet here in Cedar Rapids last year. Zach and Kim love Jesus Christ and want to honor him with their lives.

Zach is a champion in every sense of the word. He's a man who's followed his dreams, all the way from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Augusta, Georgia. He's a man of humility and integrity. He's a man who has just reached the pinnacle of success in his profession. He's a man, who at the end of the day, is just a midwest boy from Iowa!

Manhood Ceremony

Our Men's Fraternity finished up this morning with a special ceremony. Over 80 men completed their Manhood Plan, received a customized Men's Fraternity certificate and name tag, and were "knighted" into manhood. Matt Thede surprised everyone by showing up in a coat of armour to lead the "knighting" ceremony.

You can see a slide show of the ceremony by clicking on the picture above. It is a large slide show so you may want to adjust the speed to two seconds or less in order to get through all of them. Once you finish the first batch it will ask you "if you would like to see more." Click yes and it will take you to the second set.

It was a very meaningful time watching each man come forward, kneeling for the ceremony and then receiving a round of applause. Kudos to Matt Thede, you did an outstanding job facilitating our meetings! You are one special guy! And kudos to the Men's Fraternity leadership team. You guys did an awesome job. Thanks for your servant hearts and willingness to get up early each Wednesday morning!

Now it's time to put into practice what we've learned throughout the year. Men, it's time to work our plans! See you next fall at Men's Fraternity. Bring a friend and join us for a journey into authentic manhood.

Generation Me

Surprise, surprise - a comprehensive new study released today finds college students more narcissistic and self-centered than their predecessors. Jean Twenge is one of the leaders of the study and author of Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled — and More Miserable Than Ever Before.

The report says that all the effort to boost children's self-esteem may have backfired and produced a generation of college students who are more narcissistic than their Gen X predecessors. And the Internet, with all its MySpace and YouTube braggadocio, is letting that self-regard blossom even more, said the analysis, titled "Egos Inflating Over Time."

Researchers warn that a rising ego rush could cause personal and social problems for the Millennial Generation, also called Gen Y. People with an inflated sense of self tend to have less interest in emotionally intimate bonds and can lash out when rejected or insulted. "That makes me very, very worried," said Jean Twenge, a San Diego State associate professor and lead author of the report. "I'm concerned we are heading to a society where people are going to treat each other badly, either on the street or in relationships."

It's suggested that some of the increase in narcissistic attitudes was probably caused by the self-esteem programs that many elementary schools adopted 20 years ago. It notes that nursery schools began to have children sing songs that proclaim: "I am special, I am special. Look at me."Those youngsters are now adolescents obsessed with websites, such as MySpace and YouTube, that "permit self-promotion far beyond that allowed by traditional media," the report says. Other trends in American culture, including permissive parenting, increased materialism and the fascination with celebrities and reality TV shows, may also heighten self-regard, said study coauthor W. Keith Campbell, psychology professor at the University of Georgia. "It's part of a whole cultural system," he said.

Now how do you like that. People who aren't obsessed with themselves are happier, have more fulfilling relationships, and contribute more to society. Maybe Jesus knew what he was talking about when he said:

I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. John 12:24-26

It's time for the church to move to the front of the line - not in an obnoxious and pushy way, but to demonstrate what a life of sacrificial service looks like. Our culture is broken and in desperate need for role models worth emulating. Jesus is calling us to follow Him as His servant. To show a generation consumed with "Me" what life is all about.

Leaders Stick Together

We had a great Leadership Community meeting this month. I'm showing my photos off with a new, free photo viewer provided by slide.com. The photos advance on their own, you don't have to do anything. Let me know how you like it!

We are enjoying using the Red Green theme for the months of January thru March. Pastor Bob even showed off his new Red Green suspenders! Doug Forret won the Best Dressed award with his ductape vest!

Our Glory Lodge Leadership Community meeting kicked off with the Leaders Prayer:
I'm a leader
I can lead
Because I get to
By God's strength.

We enjoyed Lightening Round presentations by Dianna Burnett for SinglesTogether, Erin Bird for the Campus Staff, and Gina Green for the Women's Retreat.

Pastor Bob gave us several important Community Neighborhood News (CNN) updates:

• We are now in the Throne Zone with our master plan. We hope to wrap up the master planning phase by the end of February. The issues is how much can we trust God for in the first phase. We hope to bring the master plan to the congregation late spring, early summer and then vote on the project a month later.
• Faithful Endeavor ~ Our Relocation Journey is the name of our relocation project. This process is all about people - reaching more people with the gospel and then helping them grow.
• On February 25 we will begin a new financial series called Real Life. On March 11 we will launch small groups that will study the Good $ense material.
• We are planning to launch a second site this fall in order to open up more seats at our 1800 46th Street site. The sermon will be captured on DVD and then shown at our multi-site campus. We are going to ask 100-150 people from our 46th Street campus to help us launch this new site.

Pastor Bob gave us a great leadership lesson using this Red Green video. Red Green attempts to to concoct an ingenious system of head projection, all to no avail of course. Pastor Bob encouraged us as leaders to be prepared for attacks from Satan. Our enemy is seeking someone to devour. Ephesians 6 encourages us to put on our armour in order to stand against our enemy. Our protection comes from community, spiritual disciplines and mission.

You can listen to the entire Leadership Community meeting by going to our web site. It's great getting together with other leaders. Remember to "keep the main thing the main thing." Real servant leaders stick together!