2008...Where Did You Go?

This past week and a half for me has been just a blur...parties, food, gifts, food, phone calls, food, cards, food, returning gifts...the list goes on. I wanted to make sure, before 2008 was gone forever, to post a handful of "moments" from 2008 that hold a great deal of significance for myself and Lifepoint Church.

Here we go:
* Dozens of people giving their lives to Chirst (first time & re-dedications).
* Our first ever staff retreat...what a great time of bonding.
* Record attendance at Easter & our 1 year anniversary.
* Our first ever "mega sports camp" for elementary aged children (tons of kids & great adult volunteers).
* An amazing Easter outreach.
* Our first ever missions trip as Lifepoint Church (Mexico outreach with Palm Valley Church - Mission, Tx).
* Lifepoint Church's inaugural "Bap-ti-que"...which is baptisms & a BBQ at the lake...what a great event.
* 1st ever baptisms (goes along with the "bap-ti-que").
* Families healing and growing closer to God and each other.
* Our 1 year anniversary (some thought we wouldn't make it...HA! God is awesome).
* A great "fall fest" outreach.
* Tremendous growth (we saw over 40 people become regular attenders just between between September & November).
* Lifepoint youth group grew to well over 20 students.
* We consistently gave at least 10% of our general fund to missions each and every month!

God is amazing!

What does 2009 have in store for Lifepoint Church?! I have no idea... I have hopes, dreams, and desires...and I know that God is in control. Please pray that we continue to have favor with God and man as we pursue several HUGE things in 2009! Thank you for being a part of Lifepoint Church in 2008.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Merry Christmas...

Merry Christmas from: Me, Asher...and the rest of the Thompson crew (Emily, Greyson, & Tatem).

Common Sense...

Some people just don't have common sense: children, teens, 20-something's, parents, and even some pastors. For example...take a look at this playground at a church. Who in the world would design such a thing? And who in their right mind would pay for it? People without common sense...that's who.

I know that I don't have everything figured out...and my common sense probably far outweighs my "book smarts"...but it's so encouraging to know that we're doing things right. How do I know Lifepoint is doing things right? Growth! We're seeing on average around 150 people at our weekly services (Sunday morning, bible studies, youth, etc...), not bad for a guy that some felt shouldn't plant or is just a "dreamer." The thing is...there are a lot of churches that aren't growing and a lot of churches that aren't even maintaining. How do I know this? Because I see them...I know who they are...unfortunately they're everywhere. That saddens me because people who haven't encountered Christ see those churches and think they are a direct reflection of Him...stale, without vision, and lacking direction...who would want to be a part of something like that? Nobody with common sense.

Common sense should tell leadership to follow what God has placed on your heart (vision, direction, style, etc...). Common sense isn't trying a new format, fresh paint, or a facade to cover up what isn't working. Lifepoint is only about 15 months old (and again - we don't have it all figured out) but we have a great deal of common sense...and more importantly we seek God for wisdom and direction.

Just a side note:
I wonder if the church that installed the above play area even tried to get a refund?!

Have an amazing Christmas!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Again?! Yes, Again...

It happened again...we had another great day at Lifepoint yesterday! This is starting to become a habit that I could get used to. We had a bunch of our regular attenders out traveling...and we still had a really great crowd! I love the fact the God keeps bringing us new people...I'm thrilled, honored, and humbled every time a new individual or family shows up. It shows me that we're doing things right...that we're following God's plan for Lifepoint Church...and as a result, He's trusting us with more and more people. Thank you for being a part of Lifepoint Church!

My plan is to blog before the end of the year about all the amazing things that God did in 2008 at Lifepoint...

Hope to see you Sunday.

Wooo Hooo...

Two words: Woooo Hoooo!

Last night we had our Lifepoint Church staff Christmas party at Dave and Buster's in Frisco, Texas. The food was ridiculous (ask Blake about the donut holes), the conversations were priceless, the games where exciting, and the the end result was a great time of bonding and enjoying each other's company. It's so important to continually cultivate the relationships we have with those around us. To celebrate wins in ministry and in our personal lives. And to know others and make ourselves known.

I'm so thrilled and honored to have such a talented staff, amazing church, and wonderful family. It seems like, even in difficult times, that the "wins" and successes that have a direct connection to Christ...they far exceed our tough times. We have seen so many "wins" over the past year at Lifepoint Church (I'll try to blog about some of them before the end of the year).

Two words: Wooo Hooo! They don't only describe our outing last night...but the way I feel every Sunday morning at Lifepoint, the way I feel when I'm with friends, and the way I feel when I'm with those I love.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Busy...

So from the looks of things (malls, Wal-Marts, Interstates, and major intersections) I'm not that only one who's busy. This time of year is so very special, so full of joy, and stress. This is the only time of the year where, within one month's time, we plan and attend multiple parties, take family pictures and send them to every person we've ever met, completely redecorate our homes (inside & out), and if that wasn't enough...we take our kids out of school for a few weeks just to add to the craziness.

I don't know about you...but I've got pretty much all my shopping left to do...I've still got 9 days. While we search and drive from store to store looking for that perfect gift...there are so many people that we pass who have yet to experience God's gifts at Christmas. Yesterday at Lifepoint we talked in great detail about "God's Gift Exchange." We learned how important it is and how blessed we are to be able to give God our worry, hurt, and grief...and in return He gives us His peace, healing, and joy. And while many of us have crossed that line of faith, accepting Christ as our savior, there are yet so many busy people who don't yet know about God's wonderful gift exchange.

I want to challenge you, regardless of what church you attend, to be mindful and eager to share with others the gifts that God has given you. Easter and Christmas are two of the easiest times of the year to invite someone to church. Don't let yourself get to busy, don't miss opportunities to invite those you know and care about...their lives could be forever changed!

Hope to see you Sunday.

12.7.08

Yesterday (12.7.08) was yet another wicked awesome day at Lifepoint Church. Blake and the band rocked, we had a ton of new kids, had to put out extra rows of seats in the adult auditorium...which is always better than having empty seats, and we showed off Asher (Thompson baby #3 for the first time). Yesterday (12.7.08) was our 4th largest 1 day attendance (behind our grand opening, 1 year anniversary, and Easter).

Every Sunday is exciting and full of purpose...but when a whole bunch of people (regular attenders & guests) show up...wow! The energy, excitement, anticipation, and vibe in the building is just amazing. I'm looking forward to doing it again next Sunday (12.14.07)...I'm praying for our largest 1 day attendance next week (please pray with me). That's why we're here...to reach people: to live our lives together, learn more about Christ and His plan for our lives, and lead others to Him (L3). What an amazing journey we're on...

Hope to see you Sunday.

Goals...

As the year is coming to a close...I find myself sitting back and reflecting on some goals I had set for myself and Lifepoint Church. I spent about 6 hours in the car yesterday driving out to Abilene to meet with a friend and church planter...so I had a lot of time to think. During my talk with Chuck, that's not what I call myself when I'm alone...Chuck is my friend in Abilene, I realized that one goal in particular was most likely going to be reached before the end of the year...possibly even this Sunday. What's that goal?!?! I'm not saying...it's my goal...not yours. But it's an important church planting milestone.

All that rambling to say this...if you don't have goals in your personal life, marriage, with your kids, at school, work, and most importantly spiritually...you'll never reach them. If you don't have goals...you won't achieve them. Sounds incredibly simple...yet so very true.

If you don't have a goal / desire to grow closer to Christ in your daily walk (through reading the Bible & prayer)...guess what? You won't grow. Other things might just happen to you at work, home or school...but spiritual growth just doesn't happen. I challenge you to set spiritual goals for yourself and your family. Grow, grow, grow...

P.S.~ I found this in Abilene...Christmas is just around the corner. Hint, hint!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Asher Isaiah Thompson...

The much anticipated arrival of Thompson Boy #3 has come. We welcomed Asher Isaiah into the world on November 28th, 2008, at 7:23am...he was 21" long and 9lbs 14oz (which is basically 10lbs - babies get big when they are 10 days late).

We want to thank everyone for their phone calls, text messages, emails, facebook posts, and visits. This is an exciting time for us and we thank you for sharing it with us.

Hope to see you Sunday.

People Say The Stupidest Things...

I know you've never said anything stupid OR that didn't make sense. Take a quick look at some comments that didn't quite come out right:

"You guys line up alphabetically by height."
- Bill Peterson, Florida State football coach

"The internet is a great way to get on the net."
- Bob Dole, Republican presidential candidate

"I get to go to lots of overseas places, like Canada."
- Britney Spears, Pop Singer

"Smoking kills. If you're killed, you've lost a very important part of your life."
- Brooke Shields, during an interview to become spokesperson for a federal anti-smoking campaign.

"You guys pair up in groups of three, then line up in a circle."
- Bill Peterson, Florida State football coach

"And now, will y'all stand and be recognized."
- Gib Lewis, Texas Speaker of the House, to a group of people in wheelchairs on Disability Day

"I would not live forever, because we should not live forever, because if we were ever supposed to live forever, then we would live forever, but we cannot live forever, which is why I would not live forever."
- Miss Alabama, in the 1994 Miss Universe contest, when asked if she would want to live forever.

People say the stupidest things...

All to often our words can get us in trouble. And as powerful as our words are...I'd submit to you that our actions carry so much more weight. What is it, as we enter into a hectic holiday season, that your actions are saying to your neighbors, family, co-workers, and classmates?

The way we act and treat others often says more about our faith in Christ than our words do. I challenge you to remember this as you visit family and friends, as you push your way through Wal-Mart or some crowded mall, and as you come and go from your home with neighbors watching.

It was once said that we should "...share Christ with everyone we come in contact with...and when necessary we should use words..." Think about it. Do it. Don't blow it.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Hurry Up And Wait...

So my wife is VERY pregnant...so much so that she was actually due this past Wednesday...two days ago. This past week we've done everything we knew to do to get ready for our 3rd child (our 3rd boy). We set up the crib, finished the baby decor in the room, installed the car seat, purchased the necessity "odds and ends", and countless other things. We spent the last several weeks and most recent days in "hurry up and wait" mode.

This entire process has me thinking about Lifepoint Church. Week in and week out we work so very hard to prep for Sunday: choosing the perfect songs for worship, put together graphics and stage designs, and ensuring we do everything we can to create a warm and welcoming environment for attenders...but more importantly for first time guest. This entire ordeal of "hurry up and wait" reminds me, yet again, of a quote that continues to haunt and challenge me: "pray like it all depends on God and work as if it all depends on you."

It's often easier said than done...I can attest to that. I know personally I find myself all to often working like it all depends on me...that's it. We need to be willing to hurry up (get things done on our end) and wait (pray and wait for God to move). When we continually partner those two aspects...watch out! Just image how our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces would be impacted if we make sure to leave God in the equation. I challenge you to hurry up and wait this week.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday...

What a kickin' day at Lifepoint!

We had a great response to today's teaching, a "Q & A" session to end our current series "So You're Dead...Now What?" We answered a bunch of questions that people had regarding death, Hell, and Heaven. It was good to be able to answer questions and concerns that our attenders had...it's always good to be able to help people build a strong foundation and fully understand what the Bible says while leading them into a deeper relationship with Christ.

There was a great atmosphere in the crowd today. Lots of laughter and joy...that's always a good thing to have when visitors are in attendance. Worship was great this morning. There isn't a band around that can compete with the talent or anointing that our guys have...we're blessed! Just a side note...Blake and I have talked in recent weeks about having the band do a studio album...we'll keep you posted on when that might take place and be available.

After service we had a staff lunch / planning meeting. I love hanging with my crew! I've already stated that we've got the best band around, which is true, but my staff is equally amazing. The talent, drive, intellect, passion, and creativity that my staff and their spouses possess is insane! I'm constantly in awe of the team that God has assembled.

These next two Sundays we're shaking things up a little bit...

Hope to see you Sunday.

It's True...

I was reflecting on what God has done through Lifepoint Church and every time I do that...I get excited and humbled. I started thinking about the favor and blessings that God has poured out on Lifepoint Church, it's staff, and attenders / members. I was thinking about all the genuine relationships and changed lives that are a direct result of what we've seen happen at Lifepoint. And it dawned on me...Satan Hates Lifepoint. It's true.

So, I put together a very generic ad for the local newspaper (see simple black & white jpg below) and updated the Lifepoint website today. I'm so excited for what God is going to do at Lifepoint Church during the remaining weeks of 2008. I want to challenge and encourage you to make plans to hang out with us during the Thanksgiving & Christmas season. If you're going to be in town...then we'll be expecting you at Lifepoint!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Guess What...

We had yet another great day at Lifepoint yesterday. Jenna had a great group of kidz (she said they totally listened and behaved!). Our nursery was pretty quiet...of course the babies can't talk. And our pre-k group...we'll, they all went by nick-names on Sunday morning...my 3 year old came home with a name tag that read "Tater-Bean." As for the adult experience...Blake's voice had been jacking with him all week...but him and the guys pulled off a great worship set and I had a lot of great feed back on the "heaven" talk in our current series, "So You're Dead...Now What?" Over all...another great day at Lifepoint Church.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Elderly Choir @ Lifepoint...

We're an extremely young church (most adults are in their late 20's's - late 40's). So when the elderly attenders wanted to put together a choir...we made them do songs that were cooler than cool...ice cold!



This is a joke of course... I just thought it was funny and wanted to share it with the 3 people who read my blog.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Tough Talk...

Sunday's talk was a rather tough one. Not only did we discuss Hell, in our current series "So You're Dead...Now What?", but I also touched on giving / tithe. How do Hell & tithe go together? Let me explain it this way...

During our talk yesterday I said that "...If I were the devil...my number one priority or strategy would be to convince people that Hell wasn't real...or at the very least...Hell wasn't that big of a deal." By convincing people of that...2 things would happen: 1.) Unbelievers would continue to reject Christ & believers would not fear (be in awe / have respect) for God and ALL His commands. 2.) You wouldn't feel the need to share your faith. - - I'd submit this because of the way that most of us live our lives...we don't fear God (we don't obey ALL his commands) and we don't share our faith...which means we must not fully believe in Hell. That's hard to teach and hard to hear isn't it?!?!

In America we have a "cafeteria" approach to Christianity. It's like we walk through a cafeteria line picking and choosing the things from the Bible that we want to believe and live out in our lives...while leaving the things we don't want to believe or follow sitting on that "cafeteria" counter.

I was VERY CLEAR THAT NOT TITHING WON'T KEEP A BELIEVER OUT OF HEAVEN. However, I pointed out that all to often the tithe is one of the things we decide not to put on our tray as we go through the cafeteria line...and by doing so I was also perfectly clear in stating that "...by not tithing...you may be keeping someone else out of Heaven." Let me explain...

When we are not obedient in EVERYTHING that God calls us to do...which includes the tithe...churches won't be able to function...churches all over America close every week because of the lack of finances. And when churches close...well, that means fewer people are likely to hear about the amazing love and grace of God...thus missing a chance to have a relationship with Christ. Again...it's hard to hear, isn't it?! We've all got to do our part...not just in the easy things (like showing up to a service, giving of our time & energy)...but in the things that we as Americans find so hard...giving of our finances.

Tough talks are hard to teach and hard to hear. But when those tough talks come (and they will)...we have to remember that reaching people who are far from God is what we are called to do. That's what it's all about...LOVE WINS.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Slow & Easy...Is Hard...

After having ACL reconstruction about 5 weeks ago...I'm still on crutches and going to physical therapy once a week. I've been told by doctors to take it slow and easy...and that's hard for me to do. I hate not being mobile, not being able to drive, or even help set-up and tear down on Sunday mornings. I have little to no patience with some things...and apparently recovery from a major surgery is one of those things.

This entire process has me thinking about Lifepoint Church. Studies and experts say "take it slow and easy"...they say "stay the course and growth will come." Here's the thing...my expectancy level for what God can do is sky high...which makes being patient difficult for me. When I look back at the last year of Lifepoint's existance...I'm floored! We started with next to nothing financially, only 15 adults & 10 kids...and today we're seeing services with 100-115 people in them...we've even had services with nearly 150 in attendance.

I fully understand that statistically what has happened at Lifepoint is extraordinary...but it just doesn't seem good enough. I love our people and Sundays are my favorite day of the week...and it's a thrill when the building feels packed. However, even with a packed building...I can't help but think about all the people in our communities who aren't in attendance...those who may still be far from God.

Physical recovery and church growth...experts suggest take it "slow and easy"...but slow and easy is hard. For those of you who call Lifepoint your church home...I need your help. I will continue to challenge you to bring in friends, neighbors, classmates, and co-workers. Let's continue to make difference in our communities!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Another Amazing Day At Lifepoint...

What an amazing day at Lifepoint today...we had an awesome crowd, engaging worship, and a bunch of positive feedback on the teaching!

Today we started a brand new teaching series called "So You're Dead...Now What?" Today we examined death, next week we'll look closely at Hell, in two weeks we'll talk about Heaven, and in the final week of the series we'll have a Q & A session. I was extremely impressed today with our set up team and our stage team...they did a great job transforming the stage between worship and the teaching. The set design looked great and we heard nothing but good things about the props. Way to go Lifepoint Church...what a great win today!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Car Troubles...

So this past weekend, my wife decided that she was going to exit a parking lot by jumping the curb (because there was a truck in her way). We've got a huge Dodge Durango...and going over curbs have never been a problem. However, this attempt left the skid plate, under the truck, looking like an accordion...which is gonna cost over $100 just to straighten out.

If that wasn't frustrating enough...the front passenger window doesn't roll up right (not because of the curb jump...it just broke). Shouldn't be a problem for the dealership to fix, right? Wrong. They said it's not the orginal window and they won't work on it. Which means my wife isn't gonna be getting any fresh air while we're driving...the window will stay rolled up.

So...we're without a car, while it's being repaired, the joys of being a 1 car family. I hope your week is going better than mine so far!

Hope to see you Sunday.

One Ends & Another Begins...

We had another great day at Lifepoint Church today: powerful worship, a great crowd, and a message that touched many hearts!

Today we ended a 7 week journey of talks entitled "Love Wins"...we looked a many different aspects and characteristics of love...ending today with "love is forgiving." This teaching series, in my opinion, was the most powerful and deep cutting series of talks that we've experienced at Lifepoint Church. Week in and week out during the journey...one person after another told me how they were impacted by the weekly talks. I loved studying, preparing, and teaching "Love Wins." Overall, the series was a HUGE win for Lifepoint Church...and even though the series is over..."Love Wins" will continue to be a mantra for Lifepoint Church members and attenders.

As one teaching series ends...another must begin. Starting next Sunday, October 26th, we'll begin a 4 week series called "So You're Dead...Now What?" This is going to be a tremendous group of talks...that will be both informative and life changing. During the course of the next 4 weeks we'll be discussing: death, hell, heaven, and we'll wrap up the series with a Q & A session. I'm really excited and looking forward to teaching some deep and powerful truths.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Another Reminder...

A few weeks back I posted a blog with a very important quote in it. The quote was "pray like it all depends on God and work as if it all depends on you." I just wanted to remind myself and you of that quote...that's all.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Another Great Day...

We had another great day at Lifepoint Church. A bunch of people, great worship, fun kidz stuff, relevant teaching, and a successful blood drive! I want to thank everyone who participated in the blood drive today...you make me proud. In fact, all the Lifepoint staff, volunteers, and attenders / members make me proud...I'm proud to know you and to have you a part of Lifepoint.

Hope to see you Sunday.

What Do You Take For Granted?

So it's Friday night and I've just made my way, very slowly, up the stairs on crutches. I've been on crutches now for about two weeks moving slow, carefully maneuvering, and rarely getting up...only when I have to. This immobility has really got me thinking about my legs and how up until two weeks ago I really took them for granted. I could walk, jog, and even run if I wanted to...now, I hobble along and can't wait until mid-November when I get clearance to ditch the crutches.

My legs, the ability to freely walk...I took that for granted. My question to you is: what have you taken for granted?! Your job? Your family? Friends? Your stuff - house, car(s), clothes, etc...? A pantry and refrigerator full of food? How about your relationship with God?

So many of us have either had a relationship with Christ for so long that it's just not "fresh" or new to us anymore...we're not excited like we once were OR we've recently crossed the line of faith and maybe we just don't know how to share Christ with our friends, family, co-workers or neighbors. Either way, I'd submit to you that all to often we take our relationship with Christ and what he's done in our lives for granted.

We need to...we must...be diligent to keep our relationship with God fresh and new. This will require work on our part. We need to spend time with God daily (prayer & bible reading), surrounding ourselves with other believers (for encouragement & support), and we need to keep our eyes open and see others as God sees them. Don't take for granted the greatest gift you've ever received...grace, mercy, and salvation. Value it, embrace it, and most importantly share it with those you come in contact with...we're living for Christ...let's wear His name well.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Lifepoint Blood Drive...

This coming Sunday, October 12th, we're hosting a blood drive at Lifepoint Church. If you are able to help donate blood...come by Lifepoint Church between 9am-1pm this Sunday. We meet at Paloma Creek Elementary // 1600 Navo Road - 76227. We've got several of our people donating and we've opened the doors and invited our friends from local churches to participate as well.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Signs, Signs, Everyone Signs...

Today at Lifepoint Church we continued our current series, "Love Wins," with a talk entitled "love is respectful." We dug deeper today into our study of love and what love is, using signs (stop, no u-turn, yield, and scenic route ahead) to highlight and emphasize the importance of showing respect to those we come in contact with. There was a ton of positive response to today's message...if you'd like to listen, go to our "podcast" page (http://www.lifepoint-church.net/index-6.html) and click on "love is respectful" from 10.5.08 - message will be available Monday morning.

Hope to see you Sunday.

I'm Alive...

For those of you who read my blog and noticed it's been over a week since my last post...let me just assure you that I'm alive. Alive and in more pain than I've ever been in!

My right knee (see picture above) feels like hamburger after going through a meat grinder. I've been in bed for 7 days now...just getting up to use the restroom and go to physical therapy...at this point I hate getting out of bed...it hurts. I'm debating on if I should get some adult diapers from Clint (his wife Jenna is our children's director and he sells medical supplies and diapers to hospitals)...if I had the diapers I'd only need to leave the bed for physical therapy. I'm joking of course...kinda.

So, since I'm a pastor...this blog should tend to have something spiritual in it, huh?!

During times of extreme frustrations, pain, depression, and uncertainty...regardless of how difficult it may seem...we must trust God. Just because my job is to "pastor" and teach...it doesn't mean that I'm immune to trials and hardships. During the last week I've been beat down emotionally and physically and my strength can't be my wife or kids...no. My strength and yours, in times of difficulty, MUST be God. Nobody else can provide the comfort, support, love, and understanding we need during our darkest times. Dark times like: job loss, divorce, financial instability, personal struggles, loss of loved ones, or even knee surgery. You are loved...never forget that.

Hope to see you Sunday.

XBOX 360...

I need an XBOX 360...since I'm going to be confined to my bed or the couch for the next several weeks. Anybody want to hook me up?!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Something To Think About...

"Pray like it all depends on God and work as if it all depends on you." - Pretty bold statement, huh?!?! Something to think about isn't it?!?!

That statement, made by a friend of mine & someone I consider a mentor, has really bothered me lately. Why? Well...because, in all honesty, I haven't. I haven't been praying like it all depends on God...mostly I've been working as if it all depends on me. And for that I'm sorry. It's something easy for us all to do...believe me, I know. I apologize to my spouse, staff, people in the community I haven't met yet, and those who call Lifepoint their church home. As of today...and from here on out...I commit to: "Pray like it all depends on God and work as if it all depends on me."

For my penance and punishment (for not doing the stated above in recent weeks)...I will undergo ACL (ligament inside my knee) reconstruction this Thursday. I'm joking of course - not about the surgery - but about that being my punishment. Keep me in your prayers. Pray for skillful hands doing the surgery and a QUICK & PAINLESS recovery.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Stinks...

My fantasy football team STINKS!

My "midget ninjas" (that's my team name - I hope no midgets or ninjas are offended) aren't living up to their potential. Here we are 3 weeks into the season and I'm looking at a possible 0-3 start...not cool...especially when I'm playing against guys from the church who like to talk trash.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Wind Knocked Out Of Me...

So this morning, around 9:30am, I had the wind knocked out of me. Not literally...but emotionally and mentally. I finally went to an orthopedic specialist...they're gonna cut me open and do knee (ACL) surgery next Thursday (9.25.08). I knew it was coming and I want it done...but to actually sit with the doctor and schedule the surgery...wow! I left the doctor's office less than thrilled.

What does it all mean? Well...pain, probably...and lots of it for several weeks after the surgery and physical therapy multiple times a week to get back to "NFL ready" condition. It also means that I'll most likely miss at least 1 Sunday...which I hate doing...but I know my staff will do a great job in my absence. It also means being confined to either my bed or the sofa (since we have a two story house and stairs are out of the question for a week or two afterwards). It also means being waited on hand and foot...which I will actually enjoy.

Don't think about me during this time...pray!

Hope to see you Sunday.

What You Won't See @ Lifepoint...

I'm constantly thinking of new ways to do church: appearance of our facility, stage design, atmosphere, lighting, music, video, etc... Some churches think that using dance can help increase the effectiveness of a message or teaching. This video came across my desk...



I just want to ease everyone's mind...we aren't going to be doing this number anytime soon at Lifepoint Church. However, if Blake is really up for it and finds two back up singers with mad dance skills...I might reconsider.

Oh, and if you watched all 2:50 of that video...I'm guessing there's a pretty good chance you're one of those people on the freeway who slows down to look at a crash scene. Just kidding...sorta.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Current Series "LOVE WINS"...

Here we are...two weeks into our current teaching series, "Love Wins," and so far it's been amazing!

In week 1 we talked about what matters most to God - which simply stated is: that we are to love our God with all our heart, soul, and mind...and love our neighbors as ourselves. We talked in great detail about what "love" is and what is is not. Love is a command, love is NOT a feeling, love is a choice, and love is a conduct OR behavior (an action - something you do). We discovered that if we don't live a life of love: nothing I say will matter, nothing I know will matter, nothing I believe will matter, nothing I give will matter, and nothing I accomplish will matter - bold statements, huh? They come directly from God - look at the first 3 verses in 1 Corinthians 13.

This past week, week 2 of "Love Wins," we discussed the fact that love is kind. We looked closely at the parable of "The Good Samaritan" and discovered, very clearly, how Jesus wants us to respond to those around us. God wants us to start seeing the needs of people around us...and to fully do that we need to learn how to slow down. We talked about sympathizing with people's pain and found why in 2 Corinthians 1:4 (Message). And as the service ended we talked about seizing the moment, doing what needs to be done to help others (showing kindness) when they need it - not when it's convenient for us, and we fully realized that when we do show kindness to others...it always comes with a price tag (our time, money, energy, emotions, etc...).

So far during this great teaching series I've recommend two books: "Love Is The Killer App" by Tim Sanders (if you've got a job and work with other you gotta read this book) & "They Like Jesus But Not The Church" by Dan Kimball. Go out and get them or come borrow mine.

This coming Sunday, 9.21.08, we're gonna talk about the fact that love does not envy. It's gonna be a good one...you won't want to miss it.

Hope to see you Sunday.

The Simple Things...

As a man, it's the simple things in life that make me happy. Spending time with my wife (date nights), hanging with my boys, laughing with friends and family, eating a good steak from time to time, and watching my Iowa Hawkeyes take the "Cy-Hawk Award" off the field after stomping Iowa State.

As a pastor the things that make me happy aren't so simple...but so very important. Things like watching new families come to Lifepoint Church, seeing people who are far from God cross the line of faith, watching staff emerge and step up to challenges, and seeing our people reach out to their friends and neighbors.

I'm proud of Lifepoint Church, my staff, and those that call Lifepoint Church home. Year number 2 is gonna be amazing...

Hope to see you Sunday.

A Ton Of This...

There was a ton of this (see picture to the right) at my house on Monday night. For those of you who aren't scientist...what you're looking at is the molecular structure of Estrogen. There was a ton of Estrogen in my home Monday night.

We started up our very first Lifepoint women's Bible study this week! We had something like 25 women (including several 1st time guests at Lifepoint this past Sunday) sign up for the group that now meets every Monday night @ 7pm. I'm so thrilled that the women are coming together to build stronger relationships with each other...and more importantly with Christ. I'm also proud of my wife, Emily, and the other female staff members who are stepping up big time to lead this Bible study.

The current women's Bible study will go for about 8-10 weeks...they're using Alicia Chole's "Anonymous: Jesus' Hidden Years...And Yours" as the selected study material. I'm sure it will be an amazing time for these ladies to increase their faith and relationship with Christ...all while building genuine relationships with other ladies from Lifepoint Church. Needless to say...I won't be around on Bible study nights. Greyson, Tate and I have been banned from casa de Thompson on Monday evenings until mid-November.

Hope to see you Sunday.

1 Year Anniversary Service = Amazing!

We had an amazing day today! Tons of new families and faces at Lifepoint Church. We had around 150 in attendance...pretty cool! Thanks for coming out and being part of Lifepoint Church. Sorry for the poor quality picture...I forgot a camera...so, the picture was taken with my iPhone.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Savannah Community Event...

We had an amazing time at our event with the Savannah community on Saturday (8.30.08). We set up our Lifepoint booth, painted a couple hundred faces, handed out tons of invite cards, connected with a bunch of people, and our band played for those in attendance. I love being part of this community!

It's a wonderful feeling to have the community come to us and ask if we'd be willing to participate in their event. We've been very diligent in not only building a wonderful relationship with Savannah...but building trust. They trust Lifepoint Church. They know that they can call on us and our people will show up, love on the community and provide a great atmosphere for those in attendance. That makes me proud!

I was also proud to see so many Lifepointers at the event. We must have had over 50 of our people (including kids) at the event wearing their Lifepoint t-shirts, connecting with people at the event, inviting neighbors to Lifepoint, and having fun while the band played for nearly an hour. It's important for us to have a strong presence in our communities...because they are our mission field.

Don't forget...this Sunday (9.7.08) is our 1 year anniversary...don't just show up...bring your neighbors & friends!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Missing In Action...

Wow! It's been over a week since my last entry...it feels like it's been longer than that. This has been one of those weeks where no matter how hard I work...I just can't get ahead or caught up. I've been working on t-shirt designs, invite cards, door hangers, the outreach event this weekend, and this coming Sunday's message "Don't Lose Heart"...I really think it's gonna be a good one. All that to say...I'm back and not M.I.A (missing in action). I'm sure Heath (one of our drummers) was worried about me...I think he's the only one who reads this blog. LOL.

Anyways...I'm excited about this weekend. It's a holiday weekend and we're doing a big outreach with the Savannah community. I really believe that we'll have a bunch of new families join us on Sunday, as a result of the event Saturday. Then the following Sunday, September 7th, we celebrate our 1 year anniversary! Lots of stuff going on...this is fun.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Music & Outreach...

Next Saturday, August 30th, our Lifepoint band will be playing at the Savannah community event. What an amazing opportunity for Savannah to get a little taste of Lifepoint Church. I'm hoping to have around 40 or 50 of our people at the event...loving on people, painting faces, and handing out invite cards. It's going to be very strategic outreach leading up to our 1 year anniversary, September 7th, and Lifepoint Church is currently praying and fasting for great things to happen...I'm praying for over 200 in attendance!

On September 7th we're going to be starting a brand new series - "LOVE WINS" - during this series we're going to look at the many attributes of love. "LOVE WINS" isn't just going to be a series of talks and information...it's going to be part of the DNA of Lifepoint Church. I'm very excited about what's to come: personal growth, spiritual growth and numerical growth of Lifepoint Church.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Circus & The Church...

So we spent 7 hours (travel, circus, dinner, travel) last night going to the Ringling Bros. Circus. The boys liked it (didn't love it)...I think Emily and I enjoyed it more than them. The actual circus was too long and a beat down...2 hours, intermission, and then almost another hour of performances...which at $10 a ticket was a great value...but a long time to watch clowns, elephants, and dogs dressed up. Oh...and to top it off...the arena vendors wanted $9 for a 20oz lemonade!?!? We didn't get lemonade...I walked down and up the 70 steps (yeah, we had 'nose bleed' seats) to get popcorn and soda from the concession stand.

So I'm thinking...all this hype - "Greatest Show On Earth" (which they didn't deliver on), they wanted your money at every turn, and I left feeling like to much of my time was taken from me. So how does that relate to the church world?!

I'd submit to you that to many churches are promising amazing music, fun stuff for kids, and a hip atmosphere - and they don't deliver on the "hype." To many churches are all about $$$. And all to often people walk away from a Sunday morning service, at some churches, thinking "I'll never get that 1 1/2 or 2 hours back."

I truly believe at Lifepoint we deliver on the "hype" - we've got awesome music, kids who leave wanting to come back, a very casual and inviting atmosphere, we rarely talk about money (yes, we receive weekly tithes and offerings - but I only teach on finances once or twice a year in a Sunday morning setting), and we keep our weekly Sunday morning gatherings to about 60-70 minutes.

All that to say...I won't be going back to the circus for a very long time because of what I experienced there. And what really saddens me...is that so many people all across America will visit a church this weekend for the first time OR for the first time in a long time...and walk away thinking "...I won't be going back to church for a very long time because of what I experienced there..." and that's just not okay. I hope that thought echos in your heart for a long time.

We are the church...make sure that you make people feel welcomed and valued as they come to check out this "church" thing. People are hurting and God cares about them. Other churches out there...don't promise something that you don't deliver on - keep it simple and just love on people.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Jonah / Prayer & Fasting...

Today we finished our series "Jonah" - we wrapped it up with "Jonah's Anger." Overall, I'm very pleased with the series, the content, and the response from our people. Knowing that Jonah is typically considered a "kid's story"...it was encouraging to hear so many great responses from adults who had never spent any time reading the 4 chapters in Jonah. Jonah can teach us all a lot about obedience, prayer, repentance, and anger / resentment.

For the next several weeks I'm going to be challenging Lifepoint members / attenders to pray and fast for the upcoming school year. My expectancy level for what God is going to do is sky high. Just to think a year ago Lifepoint Church didn't even exist...and today we have roughly 110-120 people who call it their church home is amazing. Our 2nd year is going to be even better. We're going to break 200 in weekly attendance, obtain land, and start a building project!

Pray for us...pray for those who are far from God in our area...and pray that we have favor with those we come in contact with.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Jonah...

Today is the last week in our current series "Jonah"...we'll be talking about Jonah's anger and unforgiveness in our own lives.
We'll also touch on the point that it's NOT about us...it's about Nineveh. Everywhere we go is NiniIt's gonna be a good one.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Yankees vs. Rangers...

Last night me, Micah (MC Director), Johnny (Student Pastor), and Clint (our kidz director's husband) went to The Ballpark In Arlington...or whatever they are calling it this week. We watched the New York Yankees (my favorite team) play the Texas Rangers...we had an awesome time!

We had fairly decent seats (upper deck - home run porch in right field)...but we never made it to our seats. I got us reservations at the Diamond Club (air-conditioned, upscale, restaurant & buffet - overlooking left field). The food was good...not your typical ballpark meal - nachos, hotdog, 72 oz coke and peanuts - we had pasta, fish, prime rib, salad, fruit, and iced tea...did I mention it was air-conditioned and nice?!?! Oh...and to top it off...we met Nolan Ryan! He was 2 people behind me in the buffet line...supper nice and friendly - Clint talked his ear off and Micah got a handshake.

We watched a good portion of the game...my team lost...but the hang time was amazing. I love hanging out with people, building relationships, living life together, and laughing.

Genuine relationships is a key focus of Lifepoint Church- Lifepoint Church is a community of real people who are committed to connecting individuals to Christ through: Genuine Relationships, Engaging Worship and Relevant Teaching. Building relationships and connecting people to Christ...that's what it's all about, right?

I challenge you...spend some time with people this week...your family is important, but for this challenge they don't count. Have dinner with a friend or someone from Lifepoint, spend more than 5 minutes talking to your neighbor (how about inviting them to church?!?), take to to connect with people...they matter to God...they should matter to you.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Guest Speaker...

So this past Sunday, 8.3.08, I had the amazing privilege to teach at Palm Valley Church (our sister church) in Mission, Texas. Now, obviously Lifepoint Church is my FAVORITE church...but Palm Valley Church is a very close 2nd. If you don't know, Palm Valley Church is a church of about 2,500 people (3 separate worship services on Sunday mornings) - and is led by an amazing Pastor (Rick Gannon). 3 different services, in what I consider a BIG church, was awesome! I have to admit...Saturday night I was a bit nervous...but Sunday morning was amazing. I loved every minute of it...and look forward to being able to do it again someday.

Sunday was a big day for Lifepoint Church as well. Johnny our Student Pastor taught his very first Lifepoint service...and he did an amazing job! In addition, Blake was back from vacation...back leading Lifepoint Church in worship...he was missed the previous week. I love our church and it's people!

Hope to see you Sunday.

Get Away / Work...

I'm out of town right now on a mini-vacation. We're currently in Mission, TX (about 3 miles from the Texas / Mexico border) at our "sister church" - Palm Valley Church. Emily and I have the privilege and honor of spending time with our dear friends at the church for a few days...then the work begins.

On Sunday I get to teach at Palm Valley Church...an amazing church with an awesome pastor and creative staff. Now, I get to (as a lead pastor) teach every Sunday at Lifepoint Church...and currently Lifepoint Church has about 120 people who call it their church home. Palm Valley Church however, has roughly 2500 who claim it as their church home...so, needless to say the crowd for this Sunday will be a little bit bigger than what I'm used to. Not only will the crowd be bigger...but there's 3 different services I'll be teaching at on Sunday morning! Be praying for me...my strength and delivery.

I'll be praying for Lifepoint while I'm gone...Johnny (our student pastor) will be teaching and Blake is back...so Lifepoint is going to have a great day this Sunday.

Hope you're at Lifepoint Sunday.

7.27.08...

We had a great morning at Lifepoint this past Sunday (7.27.08). However, the community that we live in suffered a tragedy. A young family here in Savannah lost their youngest child in an unfortunate accident (go here to read more about the story:: http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/latestnews/stories/wfaa080727_wz_hotcardeath.b0d2e7d.html).

If you come across this blog entry...please be in prayer for the mother, father, and remaining children in the home. This event would bring any family to the breaking point. Please pray for peace, understanding and the comfort of God to cover this home.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Christian Paraphernalia...

I'm reading this great book right now...actually two: "To Busy Not To Pray" & "They Like Jesus But Not The Church"...today we're gonna touch briefly on the latter of the two and something I saw this morning at Starbucks.

In "They Like Jesus But Not The Church"...the concept (at least in the first few chapters) is that people who aren't "Christians" have a distorted view of "Christians" - and rightfully so. We use a coded language - calling each other "brother & sister" - we talk about the blood of Jesus (which to the outsider seems bizarre), there have been numerous moral failures by pastors that make the 6 O'clock news, and church can seem like a club that doesn't want new members. We as "Christians" insulate ourselves in this church bubble...where all our friends are christians, we all have the similar habits and lifestyles, and we even have our own "Christian paraphernalia" (clothing, jewelry, bumper stickers, etc...).

Which brings me to my time at Starbucks this morning. I got there early to get my $4 caffeine fix and to study for Sunday mornings teaching. About an hour into my studies...three guys walked in. As a pastor and having held other staff positions in the past...I'm pretty good at spotting "church staff / pastors" when I'm out and about. These three guys walk into Starbucks...and instantly I peg them as "staff pastors" and I notice they're wearing Christian t-shirts (their t-shirts weren't as lame as the ones to the left...but pretty close). And instantly I recall the stuff I've been reading in "They Like Jesus But Not The Church."

These guys might as well be wearing t-shirts with the text printed in Sanskrit or Hieroglypics...stuff that is completely foreign to everyone alive today. That's what non-Christians see when we're promoting our "religion" on t-shirts and bumper stickers...something that isn't relevant or meaningful to them.

I'd challenge you on a few things...
* Get out of your "bubble" of Christian influence...your Christian friends are already Christians...spend some time with non-believers.
* Be real and transparent with people you come across.
* Let people see Christ in your actions...BEFORE you ever mention Him.
* Please don't wear lame Christian t-shirts...just kidding...no I'm not...yes, I am...kinda.

Hope to see you Sunday.

I Feel Like A Proud Pappa...

We'll today I got my student pastor, Johnny, a Macbook...his very first Mac. It's funny to watch people as they make the transition from a "personal computer" to a Mac...I crossed that line back in August of 2007...and I'm forever changed.

So anyways...we got Johnny a Mac today...and watching him open and remove the computer from the box made me feel like a proud pappa on Christmas morning watching his kid open the "perfect" gift.

You know I can't help think that's the same way God feels towards us...He offers His perfect gift of mercy and salvation...and when we come to Him...I know that brings Him joy.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Too Busy Not To Pray...

It seems like I've been really busy lately...and I don't believe it's a coincidence that I recently started reading "Too Busy Not To Pray" by Bill Hybels. So far I've been really impressed with the reading and have found my time with this book to be very worth while.

I'm not going to give you a recap of the book...I'm just going to say this: If you're not praying (spending time with God) because you can't find the time to do it...then read this book.

Hope to see you Sunday.

To-Do List...

I know I'm not the only one with a "to-do list" that feels like it's a mile long. We live in a world where we are constantly running: mow lawn, clean the house, pay the bills, go to work, finish projects, drop kids off at soccer, run to Wal-Mart, pick kids up at soccer, make dinner, "quality time" with kids, put kids to bed, "quality time" with spouse, sleep... Sound familiar?

I would submit to you that the bible says we can't plan for tomorrow B/C we’re not guaranteed tomorrow. Today is the only time that we have…that is why today matters. And most of the time we miss it B/C of a few reasons.

1st thing: We over-exaggerate yesterday…our past successes or failures often look bigger to us, in hindsight, then they actually were.

2nd thing: We over-estimate tomorrow...most of us are optimistic and we believe that our future days are going to be better than today.

3rd thing: We under-estimate today...we often fail to recognize today's value and potential.

Today matters...don't let that "to-do list" overwhelm you...know that today is the only day that you have within your grasp.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Tired...

Have you ever been this tired?

I'm that tired right now. It seems like this past week has gone by so slow and has been so jammed packed with events, meetings, prep, and busy stuff. It's 10:40pm on Sunday night...and I'm ready for bed.

It's easy for us to get tired during the course of the week...and when Sunday rolls around some of us have a tendency of convincing ourselves that it's ok to "rest" by not going to church. Don't try to tell me people don't do that...I stand on a stage every weekend and I see who's there and who isn't. I know we get sick and travel...but staying home on Sunday morning to rest?! Come on.

I'd say this... If you're drained, tired or worn out...the best place you can be ISN'T at home in your bed...but instead in the presence of God. Try it. Allow Him to strengthen you. Ask Him to recharge your internal battery. Feed off the energy and excitement of those around you - who have come to stand and be counted as Christ followers.

Don't try to "rest" or recharge on your own. Instead, why not allow the creator of the universe to take care of His creation...YOU.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Upgraded...

I got it! The new iPhone 3G. I had to wait 6 days after its release, stand in lines 2 different days and upgrade to a 16GB B/C the 8GB were sold out...but I got it!

Spiritual / church application?! Hmmm... How about this...something for you to think about.

*What it would be like if churches had people lining up outside of them before they opened?
*What if people brought their bibles to church? (we take our cell phones everywhere we go, right?)
*What if we chatted about Christ or what God has done for us...just 1/2 as much as we talk about our new toys?
*If Steve Jobs (Apple founder) ran a church...you would be greeted and welcomed as soon as you walked in the door by volunteers wearing colorful shirts.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Upgrade...

I finally got an iPhone back in February of this year...and I love it! Then...the new 3G came out this past weekend...and I gotta have it. Problem...I don't have the money for it. So I put an ad on www.craigslist.com for my phone and sold it for more than an enough to get the new iPhone...in fact, I could get the 16GB if I wanted to...and I'd like the 16GB...but I'm cool with the 8GB.

So after I met some lady in a restaurant parking lot and sold her my iPhone...I headed straight to the closest Apple store. I had cash in hand and and was ready for an iPhone upgrade. But as I rounded the corner...I found about 100 other people in line wanting to get their hands on the same thing. So I waited and waited and waited...after about 2 hours an Apple employee came out and said the 8GB iPhones are all gone. So, I figured...if I get the 8GB I'll be able to pocket a bit of money...if I get the 16GB I'll be out a few bucks.

I know you're sitting on the edge of your seat wondering what I decided to do. Let's just say this...don't try to call me for a day or two...I'm currently without a cell phone. I'll let you know when I get the upgrade.

Hope to see you Sunday.

Lifepoint Church 1st Annual Bap-ti-que(Baptism & BBQ)...

Wow! That's all I can say. We had an amazing day at Little Elm beach. Nearly 60 friends from Lifepoint Church assembled for our first ever Bap-ti-que (Baptism & BBQ). Not only did we have around 60 in attendance...we baptized 7 Lifepointers! How cool is that?! And we have 6 more that I know of that want to be baptized before the weather gets to cold = 13 water baptisms in our first year as Lifepoint Church.

I'm so proud of our attenders and members. Wow! It brings me so much joy to see everyone come together to celebrate and support one another. God is so amazing. The fact that Lifepoint Church even exists is amazing...and that He's continually trusting us with more and more people...we're humbled and honored to be doing His will. I'm so proud of our people (didn't I already say that?!)...wow!

Enjoy some pictures from today.





































Hope to see you Sunday.