Far be it from me to make a victory lap before we actually get to the starting line. There’s a lot of life to come... and the following is intended with a spirit of humility.

When we signed up for church plant life, I had no rose-colored glasses on. I expected a journey through Mordor, as it were, to have its share of obstacles. Church planting life is not the Shire. I mean, the Shire is more like being a worship leader (that joke was at least for somebody).

I expected a challenge. Not only a challenge, but... as it turns out- resigning from your job, moving, starting a side business, enduring a pandemic, changing denominations... isn’t the fast path to planting a church. Who knew?

I knew I had wonderful friends that I believe in... that I hoped many would believe in this and come with us.

I knew I was finding the right fit in the Vineyard... and with a fantastic friend who helped me make Vineyard relationships and get ready to launch.

And I knew we were called. I couldn’t shake it. As long as my wife was on board... we’ve got to try.

So if we’re on the unexpected journey and Mount Doom is within view (too much Lord of the Rings? Ok.)... then why? Why go this way? Why plant?

One of the attractive things about a church plant... is the high ceiling.

The high ceiling, for us dreamers, for those with a prophetic voice.... the chance to form a local church into what it “should be...could be...” it’s just too great to pass up. The potential of realizing what you dream of.

The church “should be __________,” you say? Well let’s make it that then. What’s stopping us?

I mean, the chance to see new life and see wonderful things created... it’s amazing.

With apologies to mothers reading this, as I witnessed first-hand twice... an old joke in church plant world is: “why would you take such a risk to plant a church versus just going and getting a ministry job somewhere at an established place?

Because it’s easier to give birth than to raise the dead.”

Hey, I said “apologies.” I mean, it’s just a joke. But it makes you think.

And, apologies not only to moms for the above joke... but also, not to imply all the established ones are “dead.” Again, for the record- if you try us out and we’re not your flavor, that’s okay! No offense has to be taken. Let me know and I can refer you to another good church in town. I already sent someone to one of them last week that’s probably a better fit. Hey, if I’m not talking about you... then I’m not talking about you.

But the joke exists for a reason.

However precarious of formational journey, there’s a real shot at making something incredible. You have a chance at that rare air. And that is super exciting.

So what rarity? Like, really big crowds, or a talented band with huge sound system, or....

When you love Jesus and believe in the church with all your heart, but have decades of watching the church hurt people....

(Despite being aware there are indeed good people and good churches out there, and there are)....

you dream of making one local church that doesn’t do that.

(that’s your “high ceiling?” well, yeah. not the whole idea... but one of the important ideas.)

When you watch people that you love and care about think certain things about God and the church, because they’ve experienced something bad... ranging from a simple “I saw _______ from a celebrity pastor or famous church, and that’s jacked up, I don’t believe in that”.... to, well.... trauma and significant, deep wounding from being treated poorly by people in the church....

(Again, I’m not talking about everybody. Definitely not. Lots of truly wonderful people along our journey, don’t extrapolate too hard here. I just might have great things to say about you. Enough disclaimer? Mkay.)

I’ve seen so much... and in regards to those things... half breaks my heart, and... half infuriates me.

Certain folks that I think to myself: “I know you saw ________ in church, and that was your experience. I wouldn’t believe either if I were you. But I know there is more... I know Jesus and I want so badly to share with you the wonderful things I experience... oh, please, oh please, give Jesus another chance.... and maybe if nothing else come to our church and I will not hurt you....”

Sometimes I pray for people and find myself saying” “God, please give me _______ I will pastor them and I will not fail them!!!”

With fear and trembling, I pray for grace, that I will be a Pastor that won’t let you down in terms of my integrity.

And, I’m human, too... if you get involved with our church, it’s possible I’ll disappoint you someday about something. I won’t get it all correct.

But my prayer is that I’ll prove myself to be the kind of Pastor where we can meet and talk, I’ll listen... and whether things go your way or not, you’ll be heard and loved. Gentleness is a fruit of the spirit; having a big hammer isn’t. I hope you catch what I’m saying here...

A place where trust and safety can really be developed... where people can be confident in our integrity, and be loved. Trust and safety lay a path for other great, healing things to follow.

When I say we could have a high ceiling, and things could be a certain way... it’s not arrogance or delusions of grandeur. It’s justice. It’s wanting redemption for people. When I tell God I won’t fail people... what that means is... Lord, let me pastor/shepherd/love that person SO well.... so you can do amazing things in their life. Give me grace, Lord, for people to trust again. Let me make a straight path for you to really touch people.

Why are we going this path, then?

Because my kids deserve that kind of church.

And I think you deserve that kind of church, too.

It’s not the easy path, but the ceiling is so high... if we seek the Lord together, we can get so much right.

We won’t be perfect on day one. We won't be fully developed by month three.

But I pray we’ll be trustworthy, on mission, and make for the kind of safe place where you can make great spiritual friendships, really draw close to the Lord, and He can do all kinds of wonderful healing in you. And that right there would be special. I pray that we will be healthy, and good... and you can meet Jesus here. You can reconnect with Jesus in safety. You don’t have to worry about your wife or your husband or your kid anymore. Come rest and exhale, and find out you matter.

Last year at our National Conference, they had a prayer time up front at the end of one of the sessions. All these folks up front, some receiving prayer, some ministering to them. Watching that, it was like I could see ahead... and what I saw was us praying with people and God was changing lives. God was meeting people. It was beautiful.

I almost involuntarily said out loud, for the first time in a very long time: “if that’s what could wind up happening in us Lord... then it’s all been worth it and I would do it again.”

Lord, let us be healthy. Trustworthy. Strong and humble. Focused on the right things. And a place where people can be healed.

Come with me. Let’s see God building something great.

I’ve written about each of our core values so far, save for this one... but the last is not least.

Family values... which is not to say that the single person or those who aren't in the traditional nuclear family at the moment don’t matter. One of the things I want our church to be fantastic at... is that we genuinely see, care for, and make room for all stages of life... not just the “hey, we have a couple cliques where they all have two parents in the home, 2.5 kids, a dog and a white picket fence. If you’re just like us, then jump on in!” Well, nobody says that... but some feel that.

No matter what your stage of life, martial status, or history looks like... you’re not only welcome... but hopefully the on-ramps to relationship and being plugged in will be clear, warm, and make it easy to develop friendships. One of the best community group experiences Jen and I were ever in was a long time ago as a young married couple... and the diversity of the group was kind of amazing. We weren’t like each other. But not only did it work.... we’re still good friends with several of them to this day. I know it can happen.

So with that clear- no matter where you’re at in life, let’s hang out- another thing can be true at the same time, and that thing is: the core value of “family values.”

The genesis of this value was to communicate priority of investing in kids and teenagers. Why? Because we love them and they matter... and the impact that sowing good things in them will do for the rest of their lives. You know that 60% of people who put their faith in Jesus do so before the age of 12? And not just trusting in Christ... think about the average adult, we look back at our lives and think “if I knew then what I know now”... the amount of life change that can happen by imparting wisdom early? It’s huge.

It’s not only about the fact that their generation will be leaders in society some day. They matter right now. As people, and- even as world-changers right now. If kids can get vision for their lives early and show Jesus to their friends at school... so many amazing things can happen right now, let alone the future.

Our phrasing of this evolved to “family values” because in addition to investing in kids and students... well, one of the best ways of doing that is to include serving and providing value to parents.

Like I’ve mentioned before- a few years ago I briefly led student ministry. My kids were young at the time; I hadn’t parented teenagers yet. Did I have wisdom for teenagers? I’d like to think so, and I invested in them every week. I wrote communication weekly to their parents of: “here’s what I’m teaching your kids, here’s why, and here’s how to get a conversation with them on that topic when you’re in the car.”

But things go deeper than that. So one of the things I did- I enlisted two parenting veterans that had done an amazing job raising teenagers who were just wonderful, mature world-changers... I asked them if they would make themselves available to the parents for questions and seeking wisdom at any time... and I regularly would ask them questions that were the kind of things parents of teenagers needed guidance on, gave them a few weeks to write a blog-style response... and would publish that to the group of parents.

If there’s community, if there’s actually providing value and helping in the ways parents need help with, and perhaps the most important- a third party person/leader who can come alongside you as parents, develop relationship with your kids, and be an influence and sounding board for them... it’s invaluable.

My daughter’s 11. I can see the future:) When she turns 13 and suddenly thinks I’m a moron (maybe not, I just see a pattern in the world) .. well... I’ve been praying for years for a mature, godly young woman to befriend and invest in my daughter. Hopefully we can transcend that pattern and have a great relationship anyway.... I’m hopeful. Nevertheless, influence and investing is worth more than gold.

So when we say “family values” - kids ministry isn’t just babysitting during service. It’s a priority, and we think one of the most important things we’ll do in ministry. Of course, we’ll play games... we want the experience to be a blast for your kid to the point they are begging you to bring them! But also kids worship, also teaching them God’s Word and godly wisdom... and a place where the leaders and teachers are background checked, you relax because you trust its safety... and wonderful leaders develop appropriate relationships with them and amazing things come out of that.

If we can provide a place where that kind of ministry can happen to kids and students... and take care of parents to that clip as well... then as a church we’re worth our salt, as they say.

By putting this in our core values, we’re telling you all that in the way we approach things; investing in kids, students and families is one of the tails-that-wags-the-dog in our church. It’s one of the most important things we’ll do. Not just on paper... for real.

I’ll be sharing specifics of this soon- really exciting things we’re working on. For the sake of this post, I’m telling you the concepts that are to come.

And to be frank- if I weren't a church planter, and me and my wife just lived here in the Falls.. I would literally ask, “where has the best children’s ministry for our kids?” And we’d go to that church.

We want to develop world-class family ministries! We want to be a fantastic decision for your family to get involved with. The family struggles that all of us have... if life change can happen with your kids, and- around the table, time in the car together, and even when you have to ask them to straighten up their room become better experiences... when you find your kid by themselves reading God’s Word because they are into it and curious... and when your kid sings in the musical or plays a basketball game and other people you trust that love your kid come to cheer them on... and maybe even if it gets that far, when they are struggling with something, they take your kid out for ice cream and listen, provide wisdom and feedback and all of the sudden your kid comes back ready to make a good decision that you didn’t have to force...

Can you imagine as an early teenager when your kid gets a crush on another kid you know is a knucklehead, and they won't listen to you... but they have relationships with people in that ministry in your church and they talk them out of it?

Talk about value. Talk about life-change. Talk about saving people from wrecking their lives before they make bad choices... We’re going to make environments and systems where this can happen. Where they can fall in love with Jesus for themselves... and have loving, wise support.

What if things changed where not ALL of your parenting felt like going uphill?

What if your kids becoming more peaceful and responsive made you happy to be at home with them?

What if you weren’t alone in trying to influence them?

I grew up a Christian; but I fell in love with Jesus when I was 16. I remember this season in my life then... it was like God’s Word came alive to me. I couldn’t get enough. It was like somebody gave me the answers to the test of life. It wasn’t boring and confusing anymore. It was like a new world.

There’s this one family vacation I remember, camping in my grandparents RV. The family went to bed, and on that concrete slab and picnic table outside, by the light of a small camping-style lamp late at night... I would devour God’s Word. I had a notebook, I would write down the things I learned. It changed me. I know the season of life before that, I was angry all the time and I’m sure an absolute joy to be around (sarcasm much?).. falling in love with Jesus changed everything in my life. Talk about what can change the temperature and atmosphere of the home...

I pray so often for that day to come for my kids.

And for your kids.

This is what we’re going to build. And I am praying for story after story of life change for kids, students and parents.

Family values.

I know. This blog is to tell the story of the launch of Burning River. But I get to write it, indulge me a personal here and there...

Today marks something special for me- it’s my twentieth wedding anniversary.

Now I know what you’re thinking... they don’t look old enough to have been married for twenty years..

Ha. Well, Jen looks younger than that. I’m beginning to refer to my beard as “a coat of many colors.” All of this time together... wow. It’s crazy to look back at life.

For our honeymoon twenty years ago, we went to St. Pete beach by Clearwater. Being both the contemplative as well as the late-night type... I recall walking the beach one night by myself at maybe 1:30am. Wondering what life was going to bring. Marriage. Family. Ministry.

I’m a dreamer. That’s for sure.

This last January, we were able to go back to the same resort in St. Pete as we did for our honeymoon, this time with our kids. It was fun to show our kids so many memories (well, maybe not all the memories. Sorry mom...)

But being the personality I am, I walked the beach again at 1:30am. This time on the verge of twenty years in. Thinking about how life has been so far... and all that’s to come. (photo is that beach... a few hours earlier)

The thing I am the most happy about in my life is my wife.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my kids to the moon and back. And family and friends, and great memories seeing God do things in people’s lives...

But she’s at the very top.

Looking back... I had no idea what I was doing in life when I was twenty years old. I remember, it took me about 45 minutes to actually dial ALL of the numbers in her phone number without hanging up prematurely... “um, Hi Jen, it’s Josh... how are you?” Next thing you know it’s a date at the food court at Belden Village mall.

I didn’t know what to look for in a wife. I mean, I knew what I was looking at, I knew that much. That pretty much sealed the deal right there.

For a minute, I did student ministry a few years ago, and would teach teenagers about dating. To get them to listen, I used to say: “look at me, then look at my wife. How could a guy like me land a girl like that? Tell me I don’t know what I’m talking about. Listen up.”

Haha. I meant that mostly to be funny. But the truth is, back then I didn’t know.

But I asked God for the right wife.

Boy, did He answer that one.

I couldn’t have done any better had I had hundreds to choose from in front of me. She’s just the greatest joy of my life.

And there’s so much I could say as to why: Looks. Brains. Hard-working. Career success. Character. Faithfulness. Her as a mother. Faith.

But I suppose my favorite part is the depth of a partner I have in her.

This blog isn’t a therapy outlet, and I’m good... but twenty years of ministry has had its... well.... difficulties. We’ve experienced a thing or two. I had seasons of depression over it. Times where I struggled significantly. When I write things to the end of “I know I need the grace of God... I really need Jesus....” I learned those things through suffering and struggle. I mean those things. Like many, I grew up thinking I was better than I was.... and had to learn I wasn’t.

During twelve hour days blowing leaves in the fall by myself, wondering if I made the right decisions in life or if I was an idiot... persevering alone through physically hard work... I always knew eventually I was going home to her. And things would be ok. Days that I would struggle with different things that happened in life, and would privately be hurt and angry... she was my safe. Who would listen. Who saw me at my worst and loved me anyway. Who never wavered one minute being “for me.”

And the way she has been a partner... it’s not just about life in ministry, it’s more than that... I mean, she’s my other half. Thousands of hours talking about almost everything. Verbally processing things at home. Complimenting each other as parents. Figuring out life together.

I’ve wrote before that in our church planter evaluation, they nick-named us “same-brain.” They meant it as constructive criticism, thinking we were too similar and to make sure we brought in other perspectives in making decisions in the future.

Another perspective... sure. Happy to. But that’s not what’s going on there. That’s thousands of hours of conversation and doing life and ministry always together... and knowing each other that well and being that unified. We’re together because we’ve talked through everything that much.

You want to know why our church plant is going to be of quality? At least one, huge, massive reason?

Her.

Some of my friends respectfully disagree about women as pastors. That’s ok, and a discussion for another day. But in the journey of understanding what we believe and what she was called to... I knew. But where I arrived at first was that regardless of the title or office we give her.... pastoring the church is exactly what she's going to do.

With her, people will be seen. Way fewer will fall through the cracks. She can create relationship, and care for people... and help people find relationships with others. We’ll show up for people and people will know they matter.

When we were first married and I was starting to work for churches, I feel like I recall a few jokes from the pulpit that “we really wanted Jen, so we had to hire Josh.”

It was meant in jest, but I agree.

Twenty years in. Our marriage has been better than I could have hoped for, and I love her more today than that great day in 2005.

I am so happy with what we’ve had... and so excited for what’s to come.

Thank you so much for a great twenty, babe. The best is yet to come.

Time is flying by. I feel like I’m gonna blink and find ourselves on our launch day!

- Launch day is September 21st! Coming in hot... save the date, come be my friend.

In the last two weeks:

- We hosted our final “Interest Meeting” which was on the patio at Wing Warehouse. It went great! Many new faces, and the launch team was so warm and friendly, interacting with new people. That’s such a bigger deal than it sounds. I can write all the blog posts I want... but the way the launch team makes our church feel.... may be one of the more important things. And they are just high-quality people who have been amazing.

- We’ve seen people give large financial gifts, as well as people make new commitments to support us monthly. It takes dollars to make the vision go... and God has been providing! You know it’s the Lord when all I can do is respond; “can I just give you a great big hug?” (It’s going really well, but a few more bucks would go a long way.. if the Lord stirs your heart, you can make a gift here. It doesn’t have to be a huge gift to help)

- Another friend gave us a house drum kit, all the hardware, cymbals, mics, everything- and 2 JBL PA speakers. You know I’m a gear nerd and super psyched about this!

- Had a fantastic meeting with our potential rental venue where we’ll hold Sunday morning services. One more step until we sign some papers; I’ll tell everyone our location soon as we do that! For now, I’ll just say that I’m REALLY happy about it...

- New people joining our launch team that will really help us and be a blast to do life and ministry with, and new leaders emerging (wish I could write more about this, super pumped)

- We started our “Launch Team meetings.” These are different than Interest Meetings, which were designed to have people from the community we don’t previously know meet us and hear the vision. The Launch Team meetings are, as the title would indicate- for the “launch team” who will really help us form and launch the church. August 3,10,17 and 24 - the launch team is meeting to worship & pray, and talk about things like vision, culture, systems, what it means to be Vineyard and our practical applications of that... discovering gifts and passions, and from there organizing, making structure, and becoming ready to launch! A friend even provided a wonderful meeting place at his business for us for free.

By the way- if you want to join that, there’s still time- I can catch you up on what we’ve already talked about and get you plugged in. Let me know!

The first one, which was yesterday- I LOVED it. Just spending time with these people is great. I’m like, this is our church? I get to now see these people all the time and do this thing side by side with them? Sign me up for that.

One of the things we talked about: our culture.

This is how our church FEELS.

I can say and write all I want about vision, core values and strategy - and that matters- but this might matter more.

There’s this one local burger joint.... about once a year, I’ll forget the previous bad experiences and try it again... they have a great product in theory, but this local one is just run terribly. (Name redacted to protect). It’s their culture, not the wagyu.

Compare that to a Chic-Fil-A, where... try to out-courtesy those people, you can’t do it. Every time I drive by a Chic-Fil-A the drive through is around the store... because it’s not only a good chicken sandwich; it’s a great experience. Culture.

Culture is why some families have fun when they are together, and why some can’t stand being in the same room as each other.

Culture is invisible but it determines so much. If the culture is good, people will love coming to our church, people will grow, and leaders will come and stay. We’ll be attractive to people on the outside who want to try us out.

And, this is one of the reasons I’m REALLY excited about Burning River Church... because of the culture I believe our launch team is going to initiate and make for. All the little things you perceive but can’t put your finger on, but you know you want to come back... they have it and will be like that. It’s not just me... it’s them. And they’ll make a vibe for all the new people to come. And we’ll see what the Lord does!

I’m just grateful to the Lord and excited to go. I mean, you don’t sign up for a church plant to go the safe route... but my family and friends are worth a swing for the fence. I want God’s best. It’s an adventure!

True, some things are hard. Church planting isn’t for the faint of heart. That’s for another post.

But- I have also a suspicion that this could be one of the most fun things we’ve ever done together in our lives.

I’m not going to say the Lord’s “no” for Him... why not?

LET’S GO

My kids are 11 and 9. We haven’t yet entered the middle school years, but are weeks from the start. Right now, I’ll pop in and say- “hey, in the next three hours, I’d like you to do 20 minutes reading, 20 minutes piano or drums, and.... straighten up your room.” You know, those fun parenting conversations. They go pretty well for now... but I know life will change.

I’d like to think I’m a clean person. My wife might disagree, I don’t know. Better than in my 20s, but... just don’t look at the back seat of my truck. But I do take great pride in how I arrange the dishwasher (if you know, you know).

How much do you need to clean yourself up before you come to our church?

There’s a great question.

Well, first off- our dress code for Burning River will be “wear clothes.” Pretty low-shelf, there. If you want to wear a three piece suit, knock yourself out... but come as you are.

Come as you are. Do we really mean that?

For those of us that grew up in church, I’m sure you have opinions or experience here. Good or bad. But, a prevailing way of being in previous decades in churches, at least from what I saw, was:

Sunday best. Let’s look like the family that doesn’t have any issues. The way I share photos on Instagram is the way I present myself and my family in the church.... it’s better with a filter. We’re all good looking, we have money, and our kids are perfect angels.

There’s a problem or two with that:

1. Who’s like that?

2. It’s dishonest and fake.

For those of us that didn’t grow up in church... my hunch is your impression is just that: “Christians are judgmental and fake.”

What do you have to have together to be a part of us?

Recently, someone we know approached us, painfully telling us the story of how their best friend had done something their church didn’t approve of... and was basically kicked out of it. That person tearfully asked me: “when is your church starting? My friend would be loved and accepted in your church..... right?”

Ugh. My heart broke for them. I could sense the frailty and hope as that person said the word “right?”

Yes. You and your friend will be loved and accepted in our church. One hundred times over, yes.

One of the beautiful things about the Gospel- it’s not a message where Jesus is looking at you saying “get yourself together, and come to me.” Jesus, knowing every hidden thing in our past and our present, knowing every bit of dirt and shame... loves you so incredibly much. And you are invited to come to Jesus as you are.

And Lord willing, we’ll be the same way as a church. You’re invited to come as you are. No pretense required.

But the conversation goes a little deeper than that:

Nowadays, some places like to run exclusively on the “come as you are” ticket. And, some really do a great job with it. We visited a local church last Sunday that seems like they do good with this. However- as a generality- many of the places that live on the “come as you are” line- the practical application of that is: anything goes, and we don’t deal with anything.

God is love, man. Jesus would approve of whatever it is that I want to do or believe, because, well that’s the loving response.

God is love. That’s correct. Love does not equal relativism.

The Gospel isn’t: “come as you are to Jesus, say the correctly worded prayer, and... that’s it.”

The Gospel is better than that. And yes, following Jesus will cost you something.

Life with Jesus is free but not cheap.

You’d never know it... at least I hope not... but in previous posts of mine as a worship pastor, we’d have people on the worship and production teams. And, life happens- sometimes in a family, things need to be dealt with. And something about me you can trust, is that when that time comes, I’ll deal with what needs it. But privately, in relationship, listening and asking questions first... and with not only truth but also humility.

In my 20’s, I probably did have an edge to me of being all-to-willing to correct people, not realizing my own depravity. But, in the last ten years... I figured it out. I realized how desperate I am for a Savior. How much I need Jesus. Not just then, but right now. And- hopefully it’s made me interact with people with not only strength, but gentleness and kindness.

“My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ... and have done nothing to earn it or deserve it.” Brennan Manning

When things emerge... we’ll deal with our stuff, and deal with it the right way. That’s what will make for a healthy church. Because we’re all human, and all of us are a mixed bag. Instead of every disagreement resulting in a middle-school-esqe breakup.... we’ve got to develop the ability to communicate, listen, deal with it, forgive, and move forward.

You don’t have to be perfect cleaning your room. But... we can’t let the house start to look like hoarders live there.

Can there be acceptance and standards at the same time?

Can we have an “all-are-welcome” culture... not just in theory, but truly.... but still call people to something?

Grace and truth. Both.

Doesn’t that kinda sound like Jesus?

Jesus: there’s nothing messed up in Him. You want to talk a standard? Holiness matters. Dealing with sin matters. Heads up: I’m gonna preach holiness often. Holiness = living set apart for Jesus, different than what everybody thinks. God’s Word is going to call you to something...

But.

You’ll never find a more kind person than Jesus. Loving you as you are, not as you should be. Whereas you might feel the shame and weight of past pain... He knows that fully, and His heart is filled with compassion for you.

He really loves you.

So- you can clean your room when you’re ready. You don’t have to get things together to come be with us. Things that are alive have mess! We all do, me too.

Our church is going to have to develop the ability to live in a little bit of mess. So people can be real and be known, and so God can do some profound things in people’s lives.

And if you’re looking for a place that will love you as you are... and you’re safe to go at your own pace... but when you are ready, will challenge you and call you to something better... not out of some weird expectation or judgement, but from what God has FOR you... healing and things inside being made right...

It’s not prosperity or a televangelist “God wants you rich” to understand: the more of your life you give to Jesus, and He touches your life...your life gets better. He’ll clean things that only He can. When something bad that weighs you down gets cut out.... it’s amazing how much happier you find yourself.

The Bible says that it’s His kindness that leads us to respond to Him. And that’s what I’ve experienced in Jesus, and how I pray our church will be.

You will be loved.

This Sunday is our next (and last) Pre-Launch Interest Meeting! I’d love it if you came out.

It’s at Wing Warehouse, the corner of Wyoga Lake and Steels Corners, this Sunday (27th) at 3p. It’ll be on the back patio, which if you haven’t been there is really nice... and tons of wings, tenders, fries, pretzel bites... all kinds of great stuff. All on the house. And- twenty min to get your food, twenty minutes of vision and sharing, and we’ll wrap things up. Sweet & easy.

So why are we doing these? What’s the goal?

We’re wanting to get word out to folks in the city via mainly social media about us, and give an opportunity to meet and hear what we’re trying to do. From there, the hope is that people would want to either join our launch team, or say they’d like to check us out when we launch.

What’s a “launch team?” It’s the people who have said: “we’re in this with you, we’re going to attend and serve as much as possible especially in this first season of the church and help make this a reality.”

Honestly, as we talk to people around town- we’re hearing quite a lot of people very interested that tell us they are coming when we launch. Which we’re so pumped about! We really think God could be doing something huge here!

Again, to be very honest- the launch team assembly is going well- lots of fantastic people and leaders on it. We have the makings of a fantastic band off the bat. Great things brewing with kids leaders.

But even 7-10 more people in our launch team joining us pre-launch would be HUGE.

If you are local and believe in what we are doing- and you want to contribute to God doing a special work in Cuyahoga Falls-

would you consider joining our launch team?

You don’t have to commit to the next ten years... though I wouldn’t mind it :)

It’s saying for this season, I’m with you, let’s do this.

God’s doing something special here....I really believe it. I dream about the kind of impact this could have in people’s lives... it could be the most fun we’ve ever had. And getting to become friends with the people already on board? Amazing people. You can thank me later, I’m telling ya.

Things here are so ripe for a move of God that could change people’s lives. Oh, I see it...

but we need your help.

So if you’re thinking about it- let’s chat! You can make a huge difference-

Core Values are really important to me. If you like our church and come on in, I hope you’re down with these values- because you’ll hear a lot about them... and it’ll inform our decision making and how we are.

The contrast of “Deep & Wide” may not mean anything initially to you... that’s okay. Here’s the idea:

Who is the church for?

A question that sounds simple at first. But what people really believe about that has incredible practical applications.

“Deep” would be in reference to a way of being that says the church is for “us.” And by “us,” I mean mature, seasoned followers of Jesus.

These folks want a prayer meeting. These folks want to have a Bible Study in Lamentations or maybe Philemon and go into original Hebrew & Greek. They hear the word “Pentateuch” and think, “ooo, fun!”

Confession: there’s a lot of me in there. I grew up in the church. I took seven classes in Greek & Hebrew. I was the rare seven-year-old that knew what Hermeneutics is. (Thanks, Pop)

The thing is... my initial description of the “deep” - well, those are some of the quirky, yet positive things.

The potential negative is when that assembly of believers turns inward, largely forgetting those outside its walls.... and after awhile, amongst church boards, worship teams and district assemblies.... things get churchy, ingrained, and almost like another language.

And if all behavior communicates something... when you have worship, preach, communicate with the assumption that everyone in the crowd has been there for forty-seven years.... what that communicates to others is... this isn’t for you... and eventually, attendance and participation around that table gets small.

Studying God’s Word is super important and life-giving... but there’s a Bible Study that let’s you feast on God’s Word like it’s coming alive, makes you grasp things about the world and your life... changes your marriage and your parenting... and is so low-shelf, so kind, so welcoming-people-in....

And then a Bible Study that is more so the latest book of the month club... a bit more elitist, a bit more unfriendly...

You know it when you see it... and who wants the latter?

Often, churches that pride themselves on their “depth”... not a ton of people trusting in Christ there. And while you may cling to morals and memory verses, but could be light on love and escape the world rather than go into it....

Can we preach, have worship... things in the church that have enough meat on the bones to where God’s Word comes alive.... but in an accessible way that communicates others are welcome? Can we look to meet with the Holy Spirit, and make space for the Lord to do deep works in peoples lives... but it doesn’t get weird?

I think we can.

“Wide” would refer to the kind of church that believes it’s “only about them.” They can be hyperbolic about preaching the Gospel- but maybe not the best in discipleship and investing in people.

On the negative end, it gets gimmicky. Every year’s holiday services have to be better than the year before. Churches wind up doing wild things to “reach people....” but it ends up coming across as shallow and inauthentic.

Can we have the best of both worlds... while forgoing gimmicks and “it’s-just-us” thinking?

Can we preach in a way where if you’ve never opened “Romans” before... you’re guided through, it makes sense, and even like, oh.... that really does make sense.... and makes you ask more questions and gets your mind going...

while at the same time, things come in with enough “depth” that the seasoned believer has plenty to chew on and apply?

Can we talk like normal people, explain what we are doing, and then still seek and encounter with the Holy Spirit?

Why can’t we have both? Deep AND Wide.

Besides... my fellow longtime believer... if you really are mature and deep, then you are leading the charge in zeal for sharing the Gospel and leading people to Christ. If you can win a Bible trivia contest but don’t have love, and your heart doesn’t break for people far from Jesus.... then I don’t know if you are that deep.

I think one of the best things we could do for the mature believer is mobilize and encourage them to reach people. Maybe, assuming the best, they want to... it’s just difficult for them... well, we can help with that.

These things shouldn’t be competing ideas... they just usually are competing ideas in observing how churches function.

I really, really want to see a ton of people put their faith in Jesus. People around here that I’ve been praying for years for. My heart breaks for that. I can’t state that strong enough.

However-

I want us to invest in people, too. It’s anything but shallow and gimmicky. Content should never be a problem for us. Quality and quantity together. And as people trust in Christ, we invest in them, equip them, mobilize them- and it changes their lives. And as those folks become mature in their faith... the more on mission and outward focused they become.

You know- my dad used to tell me stories of going through Greenwich Village in NYC in the seventies, sharing the Gospel. Praying with people to trust in Christ. But as he got more involved with church... things became more about the churchy stuff than about that. I don’t blame him at all for that... but isn’t that the pull on all of us?

If you are a long-time follower of Christ, wanting a place that will equip you and challenge you... but are maybe in a rut being on mission and could use some help... we see you, and might be a good fit for you.

If you are still trying to figure out what you think on spiritual matters, but interested... you are wanted and welcome, and can go at your own pace. We’re preparing for you, and will do our best to make sure things make sense and when you are ready for the next step - we’ll be there. Things in your life that you may be struggling with... Jesus sees you and loves you and I think could change your life.

Deep & Wide.

This Core Value might sound a little less important... but hang with me. It gets important in a hurry.

Every church or organization has “drivers” behind people’s participation. The “why” ... and what makes people want to be involved.

Some churches are driven by the social circle. Everybody knows everybody- they like it small, because it’s fun and comfortable. It’s a perfect place for you.

That’s great if you’re one of the key influencers there.... but you usually don’t see a lot of people trusting Christ in places like that. And if you happen to match up perfectly, it might work out... but the circle is small. Lots of people get left out. When the church turns itself inward... it becomes more of a club.

Some churches are driven by programs and involvement... Something is going on every night of the week. Some places seem like there are seventy-five things going on.... and maybe there are. Sounds great, right?

The thing is... if you get accepted into that way of being, it means you are likely uber-involved. Seems fun... until it consumes your schedule. I’m not saying that living for Christ consumes their lives... I’m saying church busy-ness consumes the schedule, in ways where after awhile- old friendships and neighbors fall by the wayside. How many times have you experienced where when a close friend attends a new church that you don’t go to, the friendship dies? They don’t have time for you if you don’t go there.

Now, I like to go to a place where I’m known, too... and see people that I love. Nothing wrong there. And- I like to get involved and serve, too... so, why the delineation here?

Because those typical ways-of-being in the church make for a very small world that result in being light on mission... and that, even if unintentional and innocent-hearted.... is a divergence from the heart of Jesus.

Good can be the enemy of great.

The amount of times Jen and I have found ourselves in the past so busy with church life that it became virtually every night of the week... you find yourself only interacting with those people... next thing you know, it’s been six months since you’ve talked to your neighbor.

In addition- some Christians have a modern monastic view of Christianity baked in... where it’s all about escaping from society. So many followers of Christ are trying to show devotion... and do that by removing themselves and their kids from social situations for perhaps holiness reasons, perhaps to avoid temptation, or... maybe fear of what’s different than them.

There’s been a lot of monks throughout church history. I don’t know if I want to criticize something that broad.... God does select things with people during select times. However, in a normal setting:

I think the incarnational way of Jesus is a better model.

Not only not avoiding society, but intentionally going into it.

Even reading through the Gospels- see the tension with the religions people and non-religious people?

The non-religious people liked Jesus. I think that’s because Jesus liked them.

Be friends with a normal person. Not just the “ultra-churchy.” Don’t circle the wagons and escape...

It goes to a deeper theological question: who is the church for? The answer HAS to be bigger than simply: “well... us.”

Growing up, I was taught by well meaning people that if I really wanted to follow Christ, I would “come out of” the world. Maybe a slight misinterpretation of Scriptures like John 15, or 2nd Corinthians 6, among others.

It’s true: there should be a huge, noticeable difference in us if we are followers of Christ. Holiness, absolutely. As a follower of Christ, I’m charged Biblically to be different, from the inside out. Of course we should be different.

But not at the sacrifice of our love for those normal people outside of our circles.

I don’t want me and my family to be like that- find a local church, only be friends with them, and avoid everybody at school and around town (and other churches), thinking we are better than them.

Does that sound like Jesus to you? (I eventually figured out I wasn’t better than them)

For what it’s worth, I’ve met some really awesome “normal people” in the Falls in the last few years that are incredibly caring and kind.

And, to be fair- I’m not trying to insinuate this of all people I’ve been associated with in the past- clearly not everybody. We’ve been with some amazing, loving people, too. But I hope you can see the point... and the potential drift.

So how can we retain the best of those things, those typical drivers:

- make it easy to build relationships and be known, do life with people

- have things going on in the church that add value to people and develop/help them

- relationships that support you and encourage you

while not accidentally drawing a small social circle that results in people not being invited in?

I think clarity of the message in leadership (consistently preaching the Gospel, intentionally outward focused) has to be accompanied by systems that support it.

Let’s not do seventy-five things that take up six nights a week for everyone. Let’s not be insecure when people have other friends, but encourage it. Let’s do everything we can do be with normal people in the community, not exclusively in our own little huddle.

Let’s be Chipotle, not Hardee’s.

Hardee’s, if you remember those restaurants- they had burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried chicken, sliced roast beef- every option under the sun, and all mediocre at best. There’s a reason you don’t see many now. Tons of things done poorly.

Chipotle- you can choose a few options- burrito/bowl, tacos, salad... and they are all (usually) really good.

Let’s do a few things with world-class excellence... and then have healthy rhythms that let people breathe and have a life.

Let’s have a incredibly well done worship experience that helps you connect with God and learn/understand/apply the Bible, and maybe receive prayer if you’d like... while your kids are in an awesome experience of their own... all while taking about an hour (I don’t want to preach for forty-five minutes... I doubt you want to listen for forty-five minutes...).

Let’s have small groups that let you develop friendships easily, you are welcomed in... and you have encouragement and support, and can be there for someone else, too.

And here and there, things that serve the city, and short course offerings to help you develop as a follower of Christ. But then when it’s time to rest.... land the plane. Have a life. Have one evening where your family just chills at home and you can catch your breath. Have the social margin to talk to your neighbors, and be friends with people in the city.

Healthy rhythms and pace for you as a person....

AND

Ways-of-being and systems that invite others inside.

Kind of underrated... but Less is More.

Tomrrow, Saturday from 3-4p, we’re having our next Interest Meeting! It’s in the “Crooked River Room” at Market District/Giant Eagle in the Falls.

I’m so pumped to share what God is doing and all that’s going on in this new church!

To get to the Crooked River Room- go in the left entrance between Starbucks and the bar, and make a hard left. There are stairs and an elevator there. Go upstairs, and it’s in the northeast corner. We’re having it catered with sushi, along with cookies and brownies if sushi isn’t your thing.

The sushi is scheduled to be delivered right at 3p so it’s super fresh. Grab some food and a drink, have a seat, and snack and chat with the folks around you. We’ll give people a chance to get their food for about 15 minutes, and then we’ll start and share our vision for Burning River for about 20 minutes.

At that time you can ask any question you’d like, and we’ll pass out a sheet where you can respond - but a no response is okay, too- and then we’ll close things up. About 45 minutes for the whole thing, short and sweet.

Your kids are welcome by the way- our kids will be there. I’m envisioning my son eating about 2 pounds of sushi.

Our hope is to get word out to the greater community by these, and the hope is that a handful of people sign up to join us. And again- even if you are just a friend coming by for support, that’s great, too! We’d love to see you.

So help us get the word out- we’d love for the city to hear what’s going on!

It would help me if you’d RSVP- click the image below to RSVP, or you can grab the image and share on socials for us!

You know, this blog is kind of half personal, half church... it’s about the church but written from my perspective.

By the nature of this, some personal events, details and points of view will come out...I figure you’ll forgive me.

My wife Jen this week decided to run for the school board. We’ve been a bit surprised and grateful for the amount of support and encouragement she’s received already. Evidently I’m not the only one who figured out how amazing she is. I always tell everyone I’m the definition of “married up”.... I think the secret is out. People have been so kind; it’s felt really good to receive that.

I won’t turn this blog into her campaign, let’s save all that for another time and place. But why does she want to do this? Aren’t you guys planting a church? Won’t running for the school board take up some time?

Well....yeah.

So why?

We’re genuine with our stated desire to serve the city.

You wait to pick up your kids from school enough times, and you meet people. Our kids’ friends’ parents are awesome people. And you meet teachers, and start being part of the town... and one thing leads to another... and you find yourself running for the school board.

Hopefully it shows some authenticity to another core value of our church: “Outside In.”

This is kind of a multifaceted value.... it plays out in multiple ways.

You ever attend church somewhere, and the way they communicate, the way they act... you know that church is not “for you?”

Of course it’s not. It’s “for them.”

Who’s them?

The ones who have been going there a long time, who give a lot of money, or whose Aunt went there for fifty years and therefore they are unofficial royalty.

Or, the ones that have enough social sway over giving units (families) where if they get unhappy, you’d lose too much.

(Am I saying these things out loud?) Haha. Many of you know how it works.

Lots of people became disillusioned with church because of “how it works.”

We don’t want it to work that way.

Outside-in.

All behavior communicates something, and we don’t want our behavior to communicate: “if you can jump our hurdles and look like us, you can join one of our cliques. Otherwise we’ll do our thing and tolerate your attendance.”

That could be your church experience, but I can tell you Jesus is not like that.

How about it being as easy as possible to develop friendships?

People that are warm and kind, and not turned totally inward?

How about on-ramps into groups being simple and welcoming?

How about preaching that doesn’t assume you’ve been in church each week since 1987.... or having systems that are better than your kids going to some part of the building you’ve never seen before with people you’ve never met, hoping they come back to you in one piece... or communications that don’t assume everyone knows who “Bruce” is?

“If you’d like to join our mens ministry, see Bruce in the vestibule after service to come to our men’s breakfast.”

Who’s Bruce? And what’s a vestibule? You boys sure like your breakfast’s.

See- it starts with a mindset. An outside-in mindset says, it’s not just about us. We’re not going to operate like we haven’t had a guest at a service in three years. We want you, we’ve prepared for you, we’ve done our very best, and while we won’t blitz attack you with our mug of church marketed paraphernalia (which is always top quality, by the way), hopefully our vibe makes you feel comfortable and wanted.

We’ll make on-ramps easy. (Off-ramps possible too... but that’s for another day)

Even if you don’t know the songs on day one... hopefully we talk like a normal person. Things makes sense.

High Jesus... low churchy (though if someone makes taco salad, I’d approve an occasional pot-luck).

The mind-set and how it plays out when we gather is the first part. The second part goes outside those rented venue walls- to the city.

Which is why my wife wants to run for school board, and why I am her biggest fan (What kind of pastor would I be if I didn’t make occasional my-wife-is-hot jokes?).

Honestly: I don’t yet know all the exact ways our church is going to serve the city.

It depends, and I’m sure will evolve over time.

What I do know is that everyone says that, and very few actually do. We have to actually do it.

And that’s tough when you have no relationship with the city and then swoop in to “give them something,” and go back to your own little space, feeling good about what you did.

So we’ll develop relationships. We’re here. We’ll find out who is already doing a good job serving the Falls. We’ll ask current leaders where the needs are. And step at a time-

we’ll serve the people of Cuyahoga Falls.

Because that’s the heart of Jesus. If we can get one thing right as a church, reading and resembling the Sermon on the Mount....

And if people in this city eventually are like: “I don’t know if I agree with everything about you guys... but there is something different about you that is very good... and where would this place be without you....”

That, Lord willing, will be part of our identity.

Outside In.

I haven’t blogged in a minute- let me tell you why:

He’ll be okay- but my dad had emergency surgery this week. He’s had Parkinson’s for twenty years, and surgery around some other complications.... and this season, and moreso this week, has been rough. My sisters came in from out of town, and my mom has cared for him almost literally 24 hours per day. She’s like a care machine. We’re hoping he’ll be able to go back to a rehab facility in a week or so... but his recouping hasn’t been without its adventures.

And you know- I’ve spent a lot of time in the last several months talking with a lot of people. And an observation that, while it sounds likely.... has still had an impact on me to witness and interact with:

There’s a ton going on in people’s lives.

It’s not just “my dad” out there. Person after person I interact with, I hear stories about their dad... or their mom, or their work, or whatever is going on for them.

It may be a false perception to think that busyness is worse than it used to be - I mean, that’s a subjective take, I really don’t know - but it sure feels like it.

People are largely hanging on, doing the best they can.

When you have a way of life that includes a ton of time listening to people, you realize:

1- most people have been through really, really difficult things in their past, and are doing the best they can with it

2- a ton of people are going through something right now bigger than what they are presenting

I look forward to the day when Jesus returns and puts everything messed up in this world to “rights” ... and everything we’ve been longing for can become a reality.

But that day isn’t here yet. There are messed up things in this world. And all of us go through some version of that.

So don’t go through it alone.

My dream is to make for one local church that does a great job around the right things.... and really benefits people and changes their lives. Helps God to feel close. Lessens stress, not adds to it. Helps you think through things in your life and equips you to make positive changes that can change the whole trajectory of your family.

And whether the day is good, or whether it’s one of those bad days....

Where you question things when you watch your loved ones suffering...

Where you feel helpless and can’t make things better....

You’re not alone.

That’s one of our core values: Love your neighbor.

Where we treat one another with honor, we assume the best, work out our “stuff” when those things come up...

But we’re devoted to each other.

We show up.

We text, we call, we visit. We listen. We pray.

We get in the picture of people’s pain.

That is a church worth going to- where you don’t have to fight by yourself.

Relationships take time - they take effort.

But we want to make a place where the relational, emotional quality becomes so good...

that if nothing else, you stop doubting that you matter. And people are there.

Would you consider coming with us and giving relationship-building a chance... and help us to become the kind of people where, on your hard day... you are not by yourself.

Monday evening, we’re having our second Interest Meeting! I’d love to see you there.

We’re having this one at Yada Yada Coffee on Front Street. They close their normal day at 6:00, and are staying open late for us. So at 6:00p, come on in and give your coffee order- it’s on the house- and make your way into the big room.

We’ll mingle and give you a chance to drink and catch your breath for about 15 minutes.. then we’ll share our vision for Burning River for about 20 minutes. At that time you can ask any question you’d like, and we’ll pass out a sheet where you can respond - but a no response is okay, too- and then we’ll close things up. About 45 minutes for the whole thing, short and sweet.

Your kids are welcome by the way- our kids will be there. It’s short enough where they should be fine- but we do apologize for any sugar excess they take in... (the java chip might not be the best choice for them...)

Our hope is to get word out to the greater community by these, and the hope is that a handful of people sign up to join us. And again- even if you are just a friend coming by for support, that’s great, too! We’d love to see you.

So help us get the word out- we’d love for the city to hear what’s going on!

It would help me if you’d RSVP- click the image below to RSVP, or you can grab the image and share on socials for us!

Core values are very important to me. I spent a long time thinking about ours. Agree or disagree, they are very personal and very intentional for me and for our church... which also means if you’re watching from a distance, determining if you want to do something ranging from cheer on from where you are to jump in and help... these values will inform our DNA, our culture, how we make decisions and do what we do.... so these are important.

And the very first one: Supernatural Stuff.

Here’s what that means: we’re hungry for God... and we want to experience Him.

It seems to me to be a lot-for-a-little to have a mindset where you start attending a church, participate in Bible studies, sing and listen to sermons, do all kinds of Christian duties and try your best to be a good person....

all the while never connecting personally with the Lord you are worshipping.

A religion comprehensively designed around teaching about someone and some things that happened in ancient times, with a goal of practical application.... but light on relationship.

It’s one thing to take a history class and study characters who lived long ago... but is that all present Christianity is?

Now true, Jesus ascended into heaven a couple millennia ago. There’s some serious time and space there.

But if we believe God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit... and the Holy Spirit is here and now...

What do you do with the Holy Spirit?

It’s common to not have a great answer because... we kind of don’t know what to do with Him.

Is the Holy Spirit an invisible, impersonal energy no more than your inner conscience.... or do you view the Holy Spirit as actually God?

Now going down this road can get subjective in a hurry, I’ll give you that. What’s to say that anything we want to say with “God told me” attached isn’t of extreme importance? In addition, if you’ve ever seen a televangelist....

It’s really easy to throw out the whole idea. Many have... actively or passively.

It’s safer and easier... the Holy Spirit as a voice to our conscience, or energizing force toward holiness or mission may not be incorrect... but it could be incomplete.

One of my favorite old books, Fresh Wind, Fresh Power- the author Jim Cymbala has a chapter titled: “Of Cemeteries and Insane Asylums...” I always loved how he put that.

Meaning, toward the one end- if you’ve ever seen a televangelist running across the stage, waving their suit jacket at crowds who fall down from it (it makes a really good Star Wars light saber reel...)...this would be the “insane” end. Some churches that are open to the Holy Spirit tend to be.... well... I’ll look to be kind here... not optimal, and not what a lot of people want to join up with.

But on the other end- a lot of churches don’t seem to have much life to them. Any sense that “God is here” may be closest achieved by goosebumps of mysticism or nostalgia... but not really an inclination toward an encounter with God. From the smell of incense to “I love this song” - if that helps, then great! But goosebumps alone are not really what I’m trying to get at.

And for many- it’s not in their theology anyway. In regards to spiritual gifts, and/or making room for things like they occurred in reading the Gospels.... well that happened for a short time 2,000 years ago. As I’ve been told, “you can believe in it, just don’t talk about it and don’t do it.”

In my opinion: theology that believes those things were for a short period long ago and stopped... it’s really based more on experience (or lack of experience) than Scripture. Biblical foundations for this are a bit weak... it’s as simple that many haven’t experienced it, or have experienced something “off” (You can disagree with me... just telling you what I believe).

And that’s not to indicate that I think all cessationist theology friends are “cemeteries” at all... you know the difference when you see it. If that’s not you.. then that’s not you.

I’d rather not have an insane asylum... but not a cemetery, either. There’s a ditch on either side of this road, and many are in one or the other.

My goal isn’t a service that makes you cry... my goal is a worship time that sets the table so you can connect with and lift up Jesus, and meet with Him by His Holy Spirit.... and then there’s space if God wants to do some things in people’s lives. And that can really be done without losing our minds.

I think the Holy Spirit is God present and ministering in this world. And even if He is easily misunderstood, or often disagreed about...

I’ve been spending time by myself getting to know Him.

I believe and want people to encounter His presence.

I don’t want dry, lonely religious activities that are not more than remembrance...

I want people to encounter God.

I think when people encounter God, minutes in His presence does way more than my sermons.

I think when people encounter God, He brings healing to things in their lives that only He can.

And again, I’m not talking about weird, let’s-get-all-worked-up stuff that you can see reels of on social media. Yuck.

An environment that is even, normal, you-can-come-just-as-you-are-and-be-ok, no pressure...

Where a group of people deeply and passionately, backed up by what they say and do.... really care to worship and bring glory to Jesus... because they love Him and think He’s worthy of it...

And in that, make space and room for the Holy Spirit. His presence and His ministry.

I’ll tell you one story to illustrate what I’m trying to communicate:

A few years back at Lakewood Vineyard (our sending church): at the close of service, they had a time where you could come up (to the sides) and receive prayer from someone trained and trusted to do that kind of thing. I didn’t go up, I stayed where I was, about 3/4 of the way back. Service ended.

One of the team members approached me, he’d only known my name. Not that I was a pastor in the past or what I wanted to do in the future. And quite honestly, in that season... I was tired and not loving the additional time required in the changes to the path.

He said, “can I share something with you quickly that I feel God gave me for you? And, if I’m wrong, don’t worry about it.”

“Sure.”

“I saw a picture like you were driving a car, and- you’re a visionary, you can see way ahead where you want to go. But you’ve hit a detour and things are taking longer than you planned, and you don’t like it.

Inner monologue: “one for one.”

And by the way- I’m not sure what type of work you are in, maybe it’s sales... but you are struggling a bit because it feels like menial work to you.”

“Just felt like God wanted to share with you that your work is not menial and not wasted, God is doing important things in you in this season... and that you will get to your destination, and when you get there, the goodness and wisdom of God will make sense.”

For a guy who had changed denominations during a pursuit of church planting (not the fast way to do things, more on that later) and had started a mowing business and was feeling exactly as he described... to hear I wasn’t on the wrong track, and that God was doing prep work in me during that season and getting me ready for this new venture... and that God’s timing didn’t mean I had missed something, and God would do it....

Wow.

And if anything sounded like it wasn't in agreement with Scripture, we’d throw it out. The Bible says to test all words like that and hold onto the good. And, it wasn’t emotional at all, nothing worked up. A private conversation, shared with humility.

I know this can sound strange to some, especially if you haven’t been around it before. I didn’t grow up with this at all. But I’ll wade through potentially awkward waters if the potential gain is this great.

I feel like I’ve experienced God... and it’s radically changed my life.

And I want that for you.

So, if you try out our church, are we going to force you out of your comfort zone?

No. You’re safe.

A few months ago, I preached on a few verses that included this topic..... and highlighted a greater teaching that basically explains Scripturally that when you get out of order and in error here, people walk in and think you are crazy, and that doesn’t help the Gospel.

We want you to have a fantastic experience, and... you’re safe. If and when you are ready for something else, great! ... but you are completely okay and invited to come as you are and check things out at your pace.

And for all the talk (for another day) about being “not churchy...” I think there’s actually a chance you’ll see one of the most normal people vibes you’ve seen yet at a church. You’ll never be told from the pulpit in order to join the church crochet group you can see Blanche in the narthex after the benediction... (sorry if you like to crochet. I thought it was funny and... I still don’t know what a “narthex” is).

But I do pray that in the worship time, you get a sense that “God is here.” And, you see a people that, while not perfect... really love Jesus and not only have made space to meet with Him... but then walk out the door and by their integrity and how they treat other people, it shows up there, too.

We’re really striving for a “both/and” mindset. Freedom and order, risk and safety. Someone asked me the other day what would be unique about us... well... I don’t see a ton of places doing both of these well. You come in and see passion and heart, and space made for meeting with God... while at the same time, not only you come as you are, but you’re never like “what did I just get myself into, when does this place let out?” Maybe you are at a place that does both well. Great! But I’m not seeing that everywhere.

Because, while I really hope my sermons help you (and I like to think they are funny)... what you really need is to meet Jesus. He has the power to change your life. He has the power to bring healing to you.

And we’re not going to force you on stage, hit you with a suit jacket, and get all nuts. I mean, I don’t wear suits :)

But, if you did come grab one of us when you are ready... we just might, in a private, off-to-the-side kind of way.... ask for the Holy Spirit’s presence to come and bring healing to wherever you are hurting. And if the Holy Spirit told us something that we could share with you in a compare-it-against-Scripture, humble kind of a way... those things can change your life and bring encouragement that we need so much. Because God speaks to you because He loves you.

Supernatural stuff.

We just want God, and think that He wants to meet with you and change your life because He loves you. Supernatural is just believing that He is alive and that He can.

In Cuyahoga Falls as it is in Heaven.

Because the dream could really, really work here.

I grew up in Cuyahoga Falls. Falls High, class of ‘99 (I know, you’d never think I was older than thirty-nine. Sorry to disappoint). I’ve known and loved this city my whole life.

When you sense a call to plant a church, things you tend to think in selecting a location: “where can we be effective?” Where there is a need, and where you are similar to the people that live there.

My junior year in college, I did a year-long internship at a church in the country. Really nice people... but I learned I’m not a country boy. No offense, nothing wrong with them... suffice it to say that’s not where I fit.

I fit so well in Cuyahoga Falls. It’s a perfect place to live and raise kids. It’s half big city and half small town. I think and see the world similar to many of the people that live here. We’ve had a great experience with our kids’ school and the people we’ve met through it. We love our home and our neighborhood.

Simply put: where can we be effective to reach people?

For us, the answer was in coming home.

I recall when Jen and I first sensed a call, we were thinking of where we could go- where was there a need, and where could we be effective. We went on a few dates to Strongsville, looked at a few things. We really sought the Lord about it... and began to really feel called back to Cuyahoga Falls.

Now one thing I’d like to communicate: multiple things can be true at the same time. I can talk about the need in an area- which can be absolutely true- while not trying to put down what anyone else is doing in the area. There can be other good churches around while a great need remains. So, if you’re reading this, and are local in a church that you love: please don’t assume the negative! That’s really not what I’m trying to do.

It takes all flavors and styles of churches to reach all kinds of people! We won’t be everyone’s style, and that is ok! If you are looking for a good church in the area and we’re not the best fit, I’d be happy to recommend another. I mean, have you ever heard Joe Pryor preach? :) Really, really good. There are other great options besides us!

But like I said- multiple things can be true at the same time. Especially in the COVID era- I think every church in the area would agree that they’d love to be more effective in reaching people.

And even without that- there are 50,000 people in Falls proper, and 300,000 within easy driving distance. In observation, I think most of the church-going folks in the Falls are driving twenty minutes in any direction to one of the larger churches in other towns.

And, an educated guess that’s more solid than a guess.... quite a lot of Christ-followers got lost in the COVID-era shuffle and haven’t really been going anywhere or feel connected anymore.

You combine that with; since I know the city- Falls as a town had a boom in the 50s. The high school was huge. I know this because my dad was a Falls High grad (‘67). And, the city got older for a bit there- and now what I see are tons and tons of Millenials and Gen Z living here. It’s like a fresh demographic right in the middle of other cities.

I go downtown for festivals, and you can barely move because there are so many people. It’s like I’m on the train going to Yankee stadium or something- people everywhere.

Incredible economic development, parks everywhere, new high school / middle school.

And you can see all of that. But the subjective element, tell me if I’m wrong:

People are ridiculously busy. People are overwhelmed and stressed.

And people are lonely.

I think so many feel like they are adrift, just trying to feel some sense of stability, rest, or connection- spiritually and relationally.

I think the city is unbelievably ripe for a move of God that would change peoples lives.

I think we could really, really help a ton of people.

I think we could really develop into the kind of church you dream of but haven’t experienced before. Simply focused around the right things, helps you really connect with God, healthy, on mission... where you meet people who become your best friends.

Do we really need another church in town? First glance, honestly: probably not.

But studies show that new churches planted are one of the most effective ways to reach people.

And that’s what it’s about! God & people! So why not take a big swing at one of the best ways of accomplishing that?

I mean, what if this thing works? Can you imagine?

So again: if you are a local church-goer reading this, could you do me a kindness? Assume the best. I am cheering you on, and we are teammates, not competitors! I hope we’ll be a benefit to you, not a threat.

To borrow a phrase I’ve heard from a few pastors: “it’s like arguing over a fishing spot in the ocean. There’s plenty to go around.” My heart & attitude is humble as the newcomer to veteran pastors in town, and we are on the same team.

But multiple things can be true at the same time.

There are a lot of people that have gotten displaced from church and it’s been a long time since they’ve settled into a good healthy church. Maybe we’ll be a good fit for you... and God could do some really awesome things in your life.

Maybe there’s people reading this, in which- church hasn’t been your thing. Maybe you have some questions about religious stuff, or that the little bit of church exposure you had in the past was weird.... and you’re in a season of life now where you desire something more, something seems to be missing...

I think that Jesus loves you and has some things He’d love to do in your life; and maybe we could be a good fit where it would benefit you spiritually and make it easy to meet some great people. I think that Jesus might be the answer you’ve been looking for.

You know, Cuyahoga Falls- even the greater region- kind of got depressed for awhile there. I mean, we are the region of the “burning river” that caught on fire from all the pollution in it.

But in the last several years, with all the new restaurants and economic development- the packed festivals downtown- even how they went through the river and have taken out many of the dams..... now the river is clean, teeming with life... it feels kind of like the city is coming back, a renaissance-

And I can see a spiritual renaissance in the city coming, too... I can see this fresh, young church come in and God using it to really change peoples lives! I can see so many people putting their faith in Christ.... I can see us going to Waterworks and baptizing dozens of people in the river... I can see people being healed, people finding purpose on mission and people who have been lonely for a long time finding friendships and partners in changing the world together.

That’s why we’re Burning River Church. This place is coming back, and we’re here for it... and want God to use us to see that happen spiritually and relationally for people.

That’s why it’s Cuyahoga Falls.

In Cuyahoga Falls as it is in Heaven.

Because I believe God wants me to.

I told you I strove for simple, right?

When you go through any kind of ministry preparation, whether it’s church planting or other roles- there seems to be a recurring emphasis early on to discern if you’ve been “called” or not. The reason: ministry life can be really difficult. And if you don’t have that sense of calling clarified - jumping ship on those difficult days will seem awfully attractive.

In my late teenage years, after I really gave my heart to the Lord when I was sixteen- I started feeling a desire to maybe become a Pastor, or maybe become a theology professor (I would be the oddest theology professor a seminary has ever seen). I started out doing things in worship/music and student ministry, and the worship stuff kind of kept going to the next level.

Not that I was some kind of music prodigy, mind you. I think God in His sovereignty opened doors for me, and provided talented people with me.

Even the story of how worship leading began for me is funny. My sophomore year at college, they had these traveling teams that would go to churches and preach and sing, do the services. I tried out to be a preacher. They said, “that’s fine, but we need more male singers too, can you sing?”

“Nope.”

I was so shy about it that I couldn't really sing in front of the three people in the room asking me that. Eventually, one said, “here, I’ll sing this song, you sing along with me.” I mumbled out something, and they said, “yeah you’re in.”

“What just happened?”

A month later, I’m in Nitro, West Virginia leading worship with one of my best friends, Matt Shetler (yep- the same who is Lead Pastor of our sending church and elder at our plant) and a few others from the college who traveled there for the service- with all the skill of a guy who’d been playing guitar for three months.

Humble beginnings indeed. But it kept going to the next thing... and I grew to absolutely love it.

Though there are many funny stories along that journey, I’ll skip ahead:

It’s 2019, and I’m at a church where I’d been on staff for almost ten years, and I deeply love the people. It’s a great fit for how I like to do things. Really wonderful people, and the amount of fun and ministry we had together... just unreal. Such a gift.

But- I started feeling drawn to the idea of being a Lead Pastor... or maybe planting a church. I’m wondering if I’m in a mood... usually I’m a pretty open book, but I kept this one private.

A very longtime friend (who is an elder at our church now) - who has a walk with the Lord that I respect so deeply- calls me days after I started feeling that draw. We hadn’t spoken in maybe six months.

He said: “I was praying for you yesterday, and I felt the Lord tell me that you’ve been running from your call to be a Lead Pastor.”

Whoa.

I thanked him and listened- and began to seek the Lord about it.

Shortly after that, I got scheduled to preach. I preached a lot in my younger days, but not often in those years- I was doing worship, and there were several other really good preachers to be on the schedule. And you know; when you preach once or twice per year, you’re not comfortable until it’s over. And thankfully, church people are kind and gracious, and will tell you “good job” as they exit and go home... though you usually know better :)

I had asked God going into that day: “Lord, not the usual kindness from people... would you give me something specific to know if I’m on the right track?”

Three people pulled me aside privately afterward and said something to the effect of: “you should consider going and planting a church.”

God was really so kind and patient with me. I kept holding on to things, and He would give me such obvious confirmations and answered prayers- there’s more stories yet then I can list here.

And one thing, as important as anything else in the story- my wife was right with me. There was never convincing her or selling her on something... and the magnitude of life changes we made toward this end, she would have just cause if she wanted to be upset about it. Literally never.

We went through the assessment process with Stadia- one of the premier church planting organizations. They are not for the faint of heart, that's for sure. I am glad they are grilling potential pastors that hard... there was literally no stone left unturned in any faucet of our lives. I recall asking them when the swimsuit competition was... I don’t know if my sense of humor carries there..... but I digress...

At a culmination event in Chicago late summer 2024, our review panel- really wonderful, godly people, which is another story in itself- part of their job in the evaluation is to provide constructive criticism. One that made the top of the list: they nicknamed Jen and I “same brain,” because we were so in sync with each other and our sense of call and what we wanted to do.

Haha, I’ll take that. That’s not two passive people, nor two people eerily similar who just happened to find each other... that’s thousands of hours of conversation, and loving God and each other that deeply.

I’m not moving forward with one inch of this not only without her support... but in trusting her wisdom and leadership. And though we’re human too... we’ve been together. This is us together, 100%.

And you know, there are desires, dreams, relationships, environments... something like this is multi-faceted.

But at the end of the day- is this what God wants us to do?

I’ve never felt so out of control in my life. I can’t “make” anything happen. No matter how hard I work, how I scheme, or my best plans on paper...

But I think I’m not really the first one in line leading this.

I think God is doing something for His glory and for people He loves in Cuyahoga Falls.

So Lord, you have my yes. I’m in.

I’ll step out of the boat for you.

Let’s go.

What’s the heart of this upcoming church plant?

So people thrive with Jesus. Life to be done in Cuyahoga Falls as it is in heaven.

Ok, confession. I didn't come up with that phrase, I borrowed it. You may have heard it before:

“your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10, NIV)

The Kingdom of God. What does that mean?

If God is all powerful, is everything that happens His will?

Why would Jesus pray for the Kingdom of God to come, and for things on earth to be what God wants...

For the range of theological and ideological perspectives that may read this... perhaps the one thing we can all agree on is that not everything in this world at the moment is “as it should be.”

Casual observation should tell you that. Stop and ruminate on it... it’ll break your heart.

Secondary question: if that’s true, if you believe that... not everything is “as it should be...”

Is there hope?

I mean, this side of eternity.

My friends, I do believe that Jesus is coming back. He will judge, He will redeem, he will make a new heaven and new earth... and in that day, the future hope will be fully realized. I believe in that future day the reign of Jesus will extend to everything everywhere, and things will be put to rights.

But that day hasn’t come yet.

So is the Kingdom of God just a future hope? Some sweet day we’ll get harps and float on clouds, and just be happy all the time?

Well-I wouldn’t put too much into the harps and clouds thing. While that future hope is indeed to a scope I can’t fathom... I do think the coming reign of Jesus will be more present and palpable than we can imagine.

But hope right now. In this life.

In your life.

This isn’t self-help, it’s not your best life now.

But could positive, deep life change happen for you? If God loves you, if God is powerful.... can He? Would He?

The Kingdom of God is where the rule and reign of Jesus can be a present reality experienced in the lives of His followers. It’s the idea that the Kingdom of God is now-and-not-yet. A future hope? You bet. But we can experience the power, authority, justice, and heart of Jesus here and now.

It kind of gets as simple as....

Do you think God loves you?

Do you think God wants to move in your life?

Do you think He can?

Maybe an insight would be to read through the Gospels, and simply ask yourself what Jesus spent most of His time doing....

Willing AND able. Not just on paper... in reality.

I think Jesus loves you to a depth that maybe you’ve never realized before. And you may be living frustrated, hurting, defeated, and lonely...

I can feel the compassion of Jesus for you...

I wonder if we prayed together and asked God to come into your life and situation, what He might do in you...

What if we took some risks? What if we embraced the potentially awkward? What if we made space, and very simply... not “working up” anything, just even and normal.... asked God to move in your life?

Honestly, like I’ve said before: I’ve been in church my whole life. I know how to do all the churchy stuff. And most of you have some level of experience with that... and that’s fine. The desire for this church isn’t as reduced as just another outlet for liturgy or religious task. The form without the power...

My drive isn’t really to show you my ministry.

I want you to experience His.

It’s the power of Jesus that can really transform. And that’s how things in this world, one person and story at a time- get put as they should be.

In us, through us... for people.

For you.

You think you have “stuff?” You come in anyway. We want you.

Jesus wants you.

If things came to be as they should be...

Come with me and take a risk.

“So where are your people coming from?”

I’ve been asked that in the last week. Fair question. The answer is: friends, family, and optimally people in Cuyahoga Falls and surrounding areas looking for a good church.

How will those people find out about it?

We’re hosting four Interest Meetings, the first of which is June 8th, 330p. We’ll advertise on social media- Facebook for my age and above, Insta for the cool kids- so people that are interested can come and get some wings & apps on the house, and hear about twenty minutes of vision from me and a few others on who we are and what we’d like to do. The whole thing will last about 45 minutes. Sweet and easy.

This first one will be in the Party Room in the back of On Tap Grill & Bar. We made it the afternoon so you can bring your kids (mine will be there!).

Now, we are having RSVP only and limiting to the first 35 people who sign up... after all, we can’t blow the whole budget on buffalo wings. Click here to go to the RSVP via the website.

Coming to the Interest Meeting doesn’t mean you are signing your life away! If you are curious or want to hear more, come on out! We’ll have an opportunity via a connection card at the end where you can indicate if you’d like to join the launch team, check it out when we launch, or even say something like “not for us but we’re cheering you on.”

The hope is- a handful of folks coming to this meeting will want to jump in with us - and possibly share with their friends who may be interested.

And honestly, I’d love it if a few friends of ours that may not be coming with us crashed the party for some free food and to show support.

So even if you are happy where you are, but want to help us get the word out to any friends or family you may have in the area- feel free to grab this graphic and share it with them! That would be awesome.

Any interest in what’s coming in this new church? I’d love to see you there!

I wrote last week that it’s “as simple as Jesus and people.”

I’ve found over the years in life and leadership that it’s easy to be complex, reactionary, or perhaps even disorganized… simple can be elusive.

Simple takes clarity, focus, and commitment. Kierkegaard said; “purity of heart is to will one thing.”

I’ve had a season to think through all the things…. and if we simply can make for a church that helps people thrive with Jesus…

I’ll sign up for that.

You just know it when you see it.

Being a “Christian” and doing religious tenets of the faith is one thing.

I really don’t have much of a desire to live life participating in a litany of spiritual task, calling it “deep” because it’s mystical and encouraging others to do the same.

I just want to be with Jesus and tell people how great Jesus is.

EVERYTHING good- He’s where that’s coming from.

You know for me- I was 16. I grew up in church, there every time the doors were open. Played on the church worship team. I even had a purple suit (glad there are no pictures of that). All the things. Hey, it was the 90s.

I also played JV basketball for Falls then - now I wasn’t very good and barely played, so if you went to Falls at the time you might not even remember.

But a week after the season, in a pickup game, I got an injury in my back that made me sit out of sports for a bit. And I came to realize how depressed and angry I was. Even though I wasn’t a great basketball player- it was my world. Most important to me... and I was miserable.

I had an epiphany that I needed Jesus.

I already was a Christian. I did all the things. Didn’t I already “have him?”

Well- sitting in tenth grade in room 201 at Falls High, not paying attention in Algebra class- I said inside:

“Ok Jesus. I’m tired of this; this isn’t working.

I want you to have my heart.”

My friends: I am far from perfect; but I’ve never been the same.

There was a shift. I fell in love with Jesus.

Not check-the-box Christian or a cold conversion. An encounter.

Even when you’ve had Christian religious experience in the past… that shift when you see Jesus in a different way than ever before…

That is life-changing like nothing else I’ve ever experienced..

It’s just Jesus.

And that’s what we’re after- for people to THRIVE with Jesus.

He let me see who He is... I “got it” like never before... and now I really, really love Jesus.

That’s what I want for this church, and that’s what I want for you.

I want to share with you what I’ve found. Who I found.

Can you be safe to come as you are... full of doubt, full of questions, still making up your mind... and maybe instead of the norm...

Can we be focused around the right things?

Can we intentionally make space?

Can we not get derailed by the (maybe) good peripheral things of church life, but ask God for His best?

I pray our church would be the kind of place where people walk in and are like, “whoa….. I get this sense that God is here.”

I pray that our church would be the kind of place where people who don’t like “churchy”…. might actually kind of like our vibe and find a place they can connect with Jesus.

I pray that our church would be the kind of place where some people who have been hurt in church in the past, step at a time, come in and experience safety, patience, kindness, and re-build trust… and that healing opens the door to experience Jesus in ways that they’ve hungered for, for maybe a long time.

And maybe even find a friend who inspires you towards Jesus.

I’ve seen it. I’ve experienced it. Jesus has radically changed my life.

So people can thrive with Jesus…. Lord, let it be.

Why plant a new church?

It’s really as simple as: Jesus and people.

Can we do that in other ways, at other places? Of course.

But I think God wants to do something new and special in Cuyahoga Falls - and I’m here for it.

I’ll tell the story of my calling to church planting in another post soon- how me and my family came to plant a church, how we picked Cuyahoga Falls, etc....

But I believe God is in this. There has been thing after thing, answered prayer after answered prayer that makes me believe that this is a wave God has made.... and we’re riding it.

You want me to get really honest?

I’ve been a Worship Pastor for twenty years. I’ve grown up in the church. And while I’ve experienced a lot of good things, great people, and have plenty of great God-stories... I’ve also seen a lot of really rough things behind the scenes. Things that make you question your belief in God, if God is there and loves you... and if being part of a church is a good idea or not.

Now there’s plenty of good people doing good things out there- I’m not trying to take a shot at anybody.

I simply dream of making for one local church that is pure around Jesus and people.

A healthy church that actually benefits you and adds value to your life... instead of church politics and drama eventually eating up your soul.

A healthy church that’s light on “being churchy” - you know, that weird way people get where their language and behavior are really communicating “you can visit if you want, but this place is really for us and our friends.” (We’ll genuinely be pumped to see you)

A healthy church where worship isn’t boring and lifeless, but you get inspired to a big view of God and when you realize, when you see it... a Jesus who loves you so completely, and the price Jesus paid so that you could have forgiveness, freedom and eternal life... it just changes you. And a church that makes space for the Holy Spirit’s presence... without getting nuts.

A healthy church that shares the Gospel, and presents things in normal ways... and people get captured by Jesus and see their lives be completely changed for the better. I see so many people trusting in Christ as their Savior!

Oh, you’d like Jesus so much... I’m tellin ya.

A healthy church where, that stuff behind-the-scenes that I mentioned earlier? Well- we’re gonna deal with our stuff in appropriate ways and see to it that doesn’t happen here. Nobody under this bus.

A healthy church where, as people go through life with its challenges, highs and lows... it is easy to develop friendships and deep relationships where you don’t have to go through life alone. Let’s end the pandemic of loneliness.... at least in our corner of the world.

Why not?

What if this works?

It’s as simple as Jesus and people.

So people can thrive with Jesus... life done in Cuyahoga Falls as it is in heaven.

The way things should be.... could be.

What if God did things like this in your life?

What if you found Jesus... and experienced Him like never before?

What if you experienced church in a way that added value to your life... and made things better?

What if, whatever you’ve got going on right now.... you didn’t have to go through it alone?

I’ll be writing regular blog posts on this page... maybe not forever, but for the next season:

Come on into this story.