Mia Hannahs.com

The Right Place, at the Right Time

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:55:00 +0000

Lately, I have been thinking about the different events and circumstances that have brought me to where I am today. Some events were joyful, others painful, and the remainder may be categorized as mundane.

But regardless of the emotion attached to it, two things are certain:

Although an event [good or bad] may catch me by surprise, it is never a surprise to God. Because He orders my steps, I know He placed me right in the midst of those events.
Every event or experience is an opportunity to grow. Walking through times of joy and times of sorrow always lead me to a place of discovery. Sometimes that discovery reveals something in my character that I can rejoice over. More often than not, it reveals something that I need to change.

Sometimes that discovery brings knowledge about the people around me. Sometimes it leads to a resolution to a problem that I've wrestled with. Sometimes it spurs me onto a new adventure.

But, do you know what it always does?

It always brings me into a richer relationship with Christ.
It always reveals a new dimension to His character.
It always leads me to a place of surrender.
It always reminds me that I am here- in this place- at this certain time- to make a difference in this world.

Knowing that nothing catches God by surprise is comforting. We can relate to people in history that have found themselves in not so glamorous situations, that later resulted in glorious outcomes.

Remember Esther? God placed her in the king's court just in time to save her people.
Remember Joseph? God placed him in a powerful position alongside the pharaoh- just in time to save his family from the drought.

Are you willing to accept where you are, regardless of what you are faced with? Are you ready to accept your spot on the timeline of history? Are you ready to use your experiences- your past joys and past hurts- to impact the world around you today?

My hope is that you answered, "yes!" Nothing you have been through is a waste. Every experience brings you one step closer to discovering who you are and what you are called to do.

BHAGs???

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Recently while in a meeting, the leader referred to BHAGS. I hadn't heard that phrase in ages. But perhaps that's because I hadn't had any BHAGS in awhile.

You may be familiar with this term. If not, then you need to know it stands for Big Hairy Audacious Goals. You know what I'm referring to- the kind of goal that you're afraid to write down on paper. The kind of goal that is so huge, that you are instantly filled with a million thoughts of why you can't achieve it. For me, when I get a BHAG, I know the goal never originated with me in the first place. BHAGS are usually a prompting from the Holy Spirit.

You see, my finite brain is only capable of setting reachable realistic goals. Losing ten pounds. Saving for a vacation. Redecorating a room. And while those goals are good- they aren't audacious. I can achieve them pretty much on my own. They don't require me to lean on the help of others. But a big hairy audacious goal? That's a completely different beast.

I'm encountering one of these now. Not alone, but with a team of people that are ready to make an impact in Knoxville and the world. Is it overwhelming to think about? Yep, a little. But I know that the originator of this vision is in complete control.

So, how about you? What do your goals look like? Maybe it's time for a BHAG!

Love Does! It Really Does!

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Thu, 03 May 2012 04:47:00 +0000

I have a new friend. Actually, I guess I can't call him a friend since we haven't actually met. I have known of Bob Goff for a while now, but recently heard him speak at Orange 2012. He was the last speaker in a line up of incredible ministry leaders. I have to admit that the thought of leaving early and beating the Atlanta traffic was tempting. Fortunately, our group stuck it out. And boy, were we blessed by Bob Goff's presence.

In case his name is new to you, here's all you need to know:

Bob is a lawyer, teacher, businessman, storyteller and visionary.
He is the founder and CEO of Restore International, an organization that works to protect children around the world against inhumane treatment.
Bob looks for ways to free the enslaved [like rescuing girls in India that are trapped in forced prostitution].
His team has provided legal counsel to those wrongfully imprisoned in Uganda.
Bob is a Christ follower who does not just tell about his experiences. Rather, he inspires others to find ways that they can make this world a better place.

Bob Goff made me think. Yes, he has a witty way of presenting his message. Yet underneath his endearing exterior is a man who is so fueled by grace, that he lives and breathes LOVE. His challenge to each of us to not just talk about love, or study what it means to love, but to actually put it into practice. He encourages each believer to be fully engaged in what God is calling them to do.

Of course, now that Orange is over, my list of "must reads" has grown. But Bob's book Love Does has already been loaded on the Kindle and read. It's that good.

The less I do...

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:39:00 +0000

Like many people, I keep a task list next to my computer. It contains a multitude of must-do's, should-do's and wanna-do's. And while it is great that my mind is always churning out ideas on how to make life and ministry better, it is not realistic that my list will ever be complete.

I recently read this post from You Lead and it was a refreshing reminder. Being strategic is a must! I love this quote and the following message from Andy Stanley, author and senior pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia: “The less I do, the more I accomplish.”

"This statement contradicts our culture and the way most of us live our lives. We fall into the thinking that to get more done, I have to do as much as possible on any given day. But if we’re strategic with our time, talents, and abilities, we can accomplish so much more. What Andy means by this is that we’re all wired in a certain way and, the more we do in the way that we’ve been wired, the more we’ll accomplish. Think about how you could be more strategic in your everyday life, in your community, and in the ministry you serve in."

It’s important for us to think strategically here at Faith Promise. When we consider what we do for the families we serve, here are a few things to remember:

1. Teach less for more.
2. Be strategic in service opportunities.
3. Include a second voice or influence for greater impact.
4. Partner with parents.
5. Teach with an end in mind.

This week think about the things that you fill your life with and your ministry. What principles are guiding you? Where can you be more strategic?

Frisbee Anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:11:00 +0000

If you are like me, you have parenting moments when you realize that have missed the mark. My intention is to make time for each of our three children and have a great conversation. I know that communication is important and yet I find myself communicating is some undesirable ways: texting, leaving a voice message, and yes, even Facebook. I’ve been known to Facebook my kids to tell them to get off Facebook and go to bed. I figure, hey, it IS communicating. But if I am completely honest, I know that I should be communicating in a much more personal way.

I want to practice real conversation. And in order to do that, I must be a great listener. Think about the Frisbee. Because of the size and shape of the Frisbee, it can be awkward to throw. If you really know what you are doing, you know you have to put just the right amount of spin on it to get it to the other player. Our conversations with our kids can be just like that. Here is what I mean:

• You have to focus on the other player.
• You have to pay attention.
• You need to anticipate what’s going to happen next.
• If it isn’t going where it should be, you have to be ready to leap toward it.
• Lastly, you have to be ready for the catch.

You see, a good game of Frisbee can be a like a good conversation with your child. We just have to be willing to practice it over and over again, so we that we can become skilled at the art of listening.

A Time To Laugh

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:04:00 +0000

When was the last time you had a good laugh as a family?

Social scientists have found that children laugh 400 times a day. Adults laugh an average of 15 times a day. Why is that? Are we too busy to laugh? Do we take ourselves too seriously?

Did you now that laughter can:
• Relieve stress?
• Lower blood pressure?
• Control pain?
• Exercise muscles?
• Increase oxygen levels?

It’s true. But even better than that, laughter can:
• Create family memories
• Help kids and parents bond
• Help brothers and sisters bond
• Mend relationships

One of my favorite memories was when we made Beignets for the first time. In case you have never had one, a beignet is a Louisiana pastry that is light and fluffy and covered in powdered sugar. They are pretty tasty. And apparently they are pretty messy to make [at least at our house].

My husband and daughter were taking on this recipe in the kitchen. After they were done, the laughter ensued. It all started with one little blow. One light puff of powdery goodness, off of the pastry and onto my daughter’s face. And then it was on. [Anyone that knows Kylie knows she would never let an opportunity like this slide.]
Pretty soon powdered sugar was rocketed around the room. And laughter engulfed our kitchen. I could have been mad. After all, the floor looked like a winter wonderland [and we all know that mom will be a major contributor in the clean-up]. But the family memory of that day far outweighed the work that went into sweeping up the mess.

Ecclesiastes 3:4 “There is a time to weep, a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”

Go have fun with your family. Laugh. Create. Giggle. Get caught up in the moment.

Too Small To Ignore

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:15:00 +0000

Kids are “Too Small To Ignore”

Every now and then , I read a book that touches me so deeply that I feel compelled to read it again and again. That happened to me two years ago, when I picked up a copy of Too Small To Ignore. This book was written by Dr. Wess Stafford in collaboration with Dean Merrill. Wess Stafford is the President and CEO of Compassion International and has witnessed what children in our world experience. He stresses that, “The time has come for a major paradigm shift: Children are too important and too intensely loved by God to be left behind or left to chance. Children belong to all of us and we are compelled to intervene on their behalf. We must invest in children- all across the world.”
If you have a heart for children, I encourage you to read this book. If you do not have a heart for children, I strongly encourage you to read this book. I can guarantee you that it will permanently change the way you see children. Four things will happen when you read Too Small To Ignore:
1. You will see why our focus should be on the children of this world. As overwhelming as it may seem, we really can make a difference “one child at a time”.
2. You will have a new perspective on what poverty really means. We cannot truly make a difference in the war against poverty until we are educated on what it means.
3. You will learn about the “ripple of influence”. You will see how God is using children instead of adults to change the future of those around them.
4. You will cry. You will hear terrible stories of abuse, neglect and extreme conditions. If you allow it, your crying will lead to a stirring in your soul.
Dr. Wess Stafford is a champion for children. And the good news is that we can be champions for children, too. This book is a great place to start. It will not only educate you, but it will give you action steps as to how you can get involved. He states, “There are strategic, persuasive reasons- beyond love and kindness- to invest in children. Today, they may snuggle into your lap, if you let them. But tomorrow you may not have access to them in the corridors of power they might occupy. Now is the time to shape the future.”
Over the next few weeks, I will share some ways that we can make a difference. Faith Promise has many opportunities for you to grow in your compassion towards children- some within the walls of our church, some within our community and some in nations far away. All of these opportunities will change the life of a child… and dramatically change your life as well.
In the meantime, if you have read the book, please submit your thoughts. If you have been involved with children’s ministries and witnessed life changing experiences, please share them here. Let’s be an encouragement to one another!

Excerpts from: Too Small to Ignore: Why Children Are The Next Big Thing, WaterBrook Press, 2005.
• This book can be purchased at Amazon.com – all proceeds fund Compassion International

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 14:55:00 +0000

Widen the Circle

A couple of weeks ago, we formed a "Parenting Beyond Your Capacity" small group. This group consists of parents with children of all ages, and is based on the book by the same title. The authors, Reggie Joiner and Carey Nieuworf write: "When families work in tandem with the faith community to raise their children, they increase their parenting capacity exponentially." In short, this study looks at five key values that each family should consider.

Family Value #1: Widen the Circle

"Your children need someone else to believe in them. They need a place to belong, besides home. The goal for you is to pursue strategic relationships so another adult voice will be speaking into your son's or daughter's life, saying the same things you would say as a parent." -Reggie Joiner

As a parent, we need to recognize that we are called to be the most influential person in our child's life. But it doesn't take long to realize that we are not the only influence in our child's life. As our children get older, they will have additional people of influence in their lives [coaches, teachers, friends]. Add to this mix the "influence" of the internet, television and music.

Children will have questions. They will have decisions to make. They may come to you for advice. Or, they may not. As hurtful as that sounds, it's a part of growing up. Knowing that truth, we need to recognize the importance of having other adults that can speak into our children's lives.

Adults who believe what you believe.
Adults who love your children and want to guide them in the direction that you
would guide them.
Adults who value your family.

Chances are, your child will not form these relationships on their own. It is our job as a parent to" widen the circle". Here are some things to consider:

1] Get involved in a church that believes in community. Faith Promise strives on community. Adult small groups are a way to get connected with people like you. Obviously, this benefits you, but it can also benefit your family. When young children see mom or dad value being in a group, they are more likely to follow suit.

2] Help your child connect with a group. The Family Ministry at Faith Promise has groups for children and students of all ages. We believe that community begins at birth. That is why our preschool ministry strives to have consistent small group leaders in our classrooms each weekend. School age children have the opportunity to engage in a small group time as well. When your child attends the same service time each weekend, he is more likely to form a relationship with his leader. Our student ministry meets each Wednesday night. In addition to hearing God's word, your student will have a small group leader who will be another voice in your child's life.

3] Consider being a leader. We are in this together. We want to create a culture that cares for families. You can be a part of this by serving as a small group leader in preschool, elementary or student ministry. I guarantee you that the time you spend with our youth will be worth it!

Next week, we will examine Family Value #2: Imagine the End.

Happy Parenting!

Mia

Order My Steps, God

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:41:00 +0000

As I write this post, I am thinking back to where I was five years ago. Five years ago, I was the "new kid on the block" at Faith Promise Church. I was also new to Knoxville, and have to admit that I had never heard of a Vol and couldn't understand why the mascot was a big brown dog. But, I did know this: God moved our family here for a reason.
I truly believe that God orders our steps. And although I haven't always agreed with the path He orders them, I am learning to submit. I'd like to say that I have learned to fully submit, but that wouldn't be true. Instead, when I look back over the years, it is then that His plan makes sense.
The last two weeks have been unusual. Not unusual as in bad, but unusual as in different. Transitions always strike me that way. 50% excitement and 50% stress. I couldn't be more thrilled about launching the Blount Faith Promise Campus. But with the new path God has laid out, it required me to give up leadership over something I love dearly: preschool ministry at Pellissippi.
Two weekends ago, I hugged many of the volunteers and parents that I have come to know and love at the Pellissippi Campus. I sang one last time with 250 of the most adorable two, three and four year olds that you will ever meet. I sent one last email out to our leadership team that has carried us through so much.
This past weekend, we had our first "soft launch" at the new campus. The enthusiasm, support and love that has come from the families and volunteers at this campus has blown me away. Just watching this come together has been incredible. I know that beginning October 3rd, more kids, students and adults will come to know Jesus. More lives will be changed. More souls will be saved. And I am humbled to play a small role in what God is going to do in Blount County. I have no doubt that God has me where He wants me.

May He continue to order my steps...

Check out the Blount Campus here: http://faithpromise.org/blount

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:17:00 +0000

Why I Love Puppets

In the world of Children’s Ministry, you will hear varying opinions when it comes to puppets. Many say that using puppets in preschool ministry is a thing of the past. Some say that puppets are as effective as the flannel graph. [By the way, I still think there may be a time and a place for the flannel graph. I have fond memories of walking a felt cut-out of Jesus across a felt body of water. But that’s another story for another day. ]
In my opinion, puppets continue to be a great addition to Children’s Ministry. Let me tell you why:
1. Puppets are attention grabbers. We can’t teach children until we have their attention! When a character is visually appealing, children are generally eager to see what will happen next.
2. A puppet can be a powerful communication tool. When someone is gifted in puppetry, they are able to create voices that kids want to listen to.
3. Puppet Shows are memorable. When a puppet show is well executed, the result is a Bible story that sticks in our memories.
4. Puppet Ministry has come a long way. The use of technology in children’s ministry continues to be on the rise. Puppet leaders can intertwine the use of technology with puppetry. At Faith Promise, we pre-record our shows and edit the tracks until we have a clean, polished show. This ensures the consistency of quality sound. The puppets themselves, however, are still “live”.
5. The grown-ups enjoy the puppets just as much as the kids!

This past weekend was “Puppet Weekend” in our Preschool Ministry. Our favorite characters revealed this truth:
God is with me when I have hard things to do.
This black light show featured Moses as he goes before the mean king, Pharaoh, to deliver a message from God [Exodus 5:1-6:8]. It also featured some pretty cool black light dancing as well. Kudos to the Spratlings and Robyn and Miranda Ellis for a job well done!

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 21:33:00 +0000

August is a bittersweet time in preschool ministry. Sweet… because we see how our five year olds have grown and blossomed. Bitter… because it is time to wave farewell as they enter a new chapter in children’s ministry.

However, this year’s transition was better than it has ever been before. Why? Because our Children’s Team was intentional about these three things:

• Preparing the rising Kindergarteners. We began talking about the transition prior to the big move. Volunteers cheered them. We rejoiced in the fact that they are going to be a part of some exciting things upstairs in Kindergarten. We let them know that upstairs would be different, but it would be good!
The week before the transition, our teachers traveled upstairs with the children to take a peek at their new “church”.

• Partnering with the parents. We offered a parent meeting for parents of rising kindergarteners. We want every parent to know that we care about their child, and we want to walk beside them. Gina, our Children’s Director, talked with parents about making family time a priority in the home. She inspired parents to visualize the end. What dreams do you have for your child? What type of character do you hope they embody?
Next, I reminded parents about the spiritual foundation that occurs in the
preschool years. Our Preschool Ministry has reiterated these basic truths to
your children:

God Made Me.
God Loves Me.
Jesus wants to be my friend forever.

These spiritual truths laid a foundation for what they will experience in their
elementary years.

Kandice Baker, fpKiDS Elementary Coordinator, shared information about the
252 Curriculum. During the elementary years, fpKiDS will learn these truths:

I need to make the wise choice.
I can trust God.
Jesus wants to be my forever friend.

She talked about the importance of being involved. She introduced parents to the God Time Cards and Refrigerator Door Page. These elements help make it easy
to be involved in what is happening at fpKiDS! We closed out our time together, by walking the children and their parents
through the Kindergarten environments.

• Celebrating with volunteers. Preschool teachers should celebrate! They have played a significant role in forming the spiritual development of our five year olds. When they taught them that “God made them”- they learned that God is the Creator. They taught them that “God loves them”… and they saw that God is our Father. They voiced how “Jesus wants to be their friend” in hopes that one day, each child that was listening would one day accept Him as their Savior.
Now THAT deserves a serious high five!

Lessons from Beethoven

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:54:00 +0000

"I carry my ideas a long time, rejecting and rewriting until I am satisfied. Since I am conscious of what I want, I never lose sight of the fundamental idea. It rises higher and higher until I see the image of it, rounded and complete, standing there before my mental vision." Ludwig Van Beethoven, Sketches, 1802

Of course we know Beethoven to be a man of incredible skill. He was a piano virtuoso and composed beautiful sonatas, symphonies and string quartets. In addition to leaving us these materpieces, he also left "sketchbooks" of his most intimate thoughts. By the age of 12, he had published music and moved to Vienna where he became well known for his talent. By the age of 22, he recognized that his ability to hear was quickly fading. At this time, he could have been satisfied by what he had already contributed to the music world. He could have let his disability drain his desire to use his talent. Instead, he carried on composing at a rapid pace.

Some of us are satisfied with the contributions we have made with our talents. But I would like to think that since our days are numbered, we want to be more like Beethoven. Let's examine our God-given talents and see how we are using them for the Kingdom. Do we allow our ideas to simmer and then cultivate? Or do we dismiss our ideas as unimportant? Just maybe that idea swirling in your head- when allowed to develop- could make a difference in this world.

Leading "Forever Strong"

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:38:00 +0000

Recently our Children's Ministry Staff watched the film "Forever Strong". The film, which is based on a true story, tells the story of Rick- a reckless teenager who buckles under the pressure of his overbearing Rugby coach father. After leaving a party where he "boozed it up", he wrecks his car and seriously injures his girlfriend. This results in Rick being sent to juvenile detention.

At the detention center Rick is offered early release if he can keep a spot on the local rugby team, Highland Rugby. Highland Rugby is coached by a strict coach who holds his athletes to high standards both on and off the field. He instilled in them a code of conduct: "Do nothing that brings disgrace to you, your team or your family."

As the story progresses, the charismatic coach is often seen on the sidelines talking with players one-on-one, and building a sense of honor, respect and team work in each athlete. He gives praise where praise is due. He gives challenges where one is needed. He helps each young man mature their emotional development, in hopes that these young men will be "forever strong."

As you can imagine, by the end of the tale, Rick has conquered his fears. He has overcome his transgressions. Lastly, he has mended the bitter realtionship that he had with his father. The ending is typical of most "sports" movies [Rudy, Rocky, even Ice Princess]. The athlete learns the value of working hard, repecting teamwork and valuing themselves as individuals. Oh, and of course, they win the game.

As a children's ministry leader, I walked away with some valuable reminders from the coach:
* The coach cares about each individual player.
* A great coach sets the bar high.
* The coach believes the best of every team member... regardless of their past.
* No matter who makes the winning score, the entire team celebrates in the victory.
* The coach cares about what happens in the lives of his players- on and off
the field.
* Encouraging people to be "forever strong" not just improves the person, but
moves the entire team forward.

As a parent, I will be watching this movie again... WITH my teenagers...

A Spiritual Letdown?

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 23:29:00 +0000

The previous two weekends in children's ministry have been phenomenal...a record number of children in attendance for Palm Sunday and Easter, with hands-on children's curriculum focusing on the death and resurrection of our Savior. Volunteers and staff put in a tremendous number of man hours to make it all happen. And the result? Kids worshipping. Kids asking their parents questions about Jesus. Children drawn one step closer to making a decision to follow Christ. In a nutshell, God was glorified.

Besides the feeling of excitement in the air, I felt something else... exhaustion.
Fortunately for me, our Executive Pastor, Joshua Whitehead gave our staff the day off. After sleeping in a bit, I stumbled across a message from Pastor Mark Batterson entitled: "Holy Hangover". I had to read it because I thought maybe I had one. And... I did.

Now, according to Urban Dictionary a "holy hangover" is used to describe a person who has had way too much to drink the night before. But Batterson describes it as the let down after a spiritual high. This is an exerpt of what he had to say:

"Just thought I'd share a word of caution. It's easy to have a let down after a spiritual high. Momentum is something you need to guard very carefully and the only way to maintain momentum is staying hungry for more of God.

Mark 1:35 says Jesus "got up very early in the morning" and "went off to a desolate place to pray." Jesus set an example for us to follow, but what makes that verse so meaningful is the verses that precede it. Jesus was up late the night before casting out demons and healing the sick. He had to be physically and spiritually spent. He didn't get much sleep. But he still got up early the next morning to spend time with the Father. That is how you avoid a holy hangover and maintain spiritual momentum."

Batterson is exactly right. Children's ministry teams have another weekend to prepare for. Volunteers have more hours to serve. The seeds that were planted now need to be watered.

So, reflect on Palm Sunday and Easter. Rest. Pray. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. Stay hungry... and never let a holy hangover keep you down.

Marshmallow Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 02:38:00 +0000

Our high school ministry, led by Michael Wallace filmed this short in preparation for a sermon on Temptations. It's priceless!

Marshmallow Kids from FaithPromiseHSM on Vimeo.

Check out Michael's blog at http://www.michaelbwallace.com

Dollar A Day

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 03:02:00 +0000

I love Cape Town, South Africa. The landscape is breath-taking. The history- full of struggles and victories. The culture- fully alive with the sound of music and colorful art.

But what I love most? Hands down- the children we have met while serving with Living Hope Ministries.

Living Hope is an amazing ministry that is meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of children and adults living in the poorest of communities in Cape Town. Faith Promise Church has made several trips to work with Living Hope. As a result, we have adopted Mountain View, a community made up of 200+ people living in poorly constructed government housing. Families here struggle from a lack of income, limited education and a high rate of illness.

The children here are resilient. Full of life. Full of laughter. Full of hope.

Living Hope provides Life Skills Educators that work with these children and families year round. We have worked directly with the Life Skills Educators and have seen the amazing gift that they bring these children. They serve as a positive role model, and most importantly, they model what a life with Jesus is all about.

To learn more about Living Hope, check out: www.livinghope.co.za
Be sure to click on the "get involved" tab and hear about the Dollar A Day [DAD] program.

Stories

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 02:33:00 +0000

As a Children's Ministry leader, I am always on the look-out for stories. Stories are what it's all about. Stories reflect where we are with our vision. Stories reflect life change.

This past weekend, we received an email "story" from one of our preschool parents. This parent partners with us to ensure a quality experience for her child. But due to a heavy schedule, she is stepping back for awhile from serving in our ministry. Here is her story:

"I am sorry I did not send this earlier but still wanted to let you know how much you have blessed my life. A couple of Saturdays ago was my last regular volunteer day. I began to cry during big group time because of the song, I think it was, “Oh, how he loves me”. I was able to be in big group with Leah and to see her sing and dance was just overwhelming to know that those seeds of godliness are being planted in her heart. She even told me that she wanted Jesus to live in her heart! Thank you for teaching even the youngest of children! I have been in a place where I was told kids 2 and 3 could not understand and know the Word. You are proof that you can make a difference! Thank you for all of your thankless hours you work to make the large group time special and God inspired! I have enjoyed volunteering on a regular basis and maybe after the summer I can do more again! Thank you for keeping me on the sub list!"

This story reminds me of how every little thing we do on the weekend with our kids counts- not just for the children, but for the parents... and for the volunteers.

How do you handle change?

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Change is constant in the workplace. That is true whether you work in retail, in manufacturing or in a church. But how we deal with change makes all the difference. I think there is value in examining how people react to change in different ways. It's important to know if we will embrace change, resist it or get stuck in "stall" mode if we are somewhere in between.

According to the article How Change Affects Teams, by Ruth Gmehlin, the four common, behavioral reactions to change are:

1] People who thrive on change—Direct, results-oriented people who embrace quick decisions and changes, challenge the status quo, and initiate change activity within an organization.

2] People who aren't bothered by change—Optimists whose enthusiasm and creative solutions to handling change keep others motivated during flux situations.

3] People who resist change and need time to prepare—Steady decision-makers who don't like to be rushed and appear to "put up" with change.

4] People who are concerned with the effects of change—Cautious, careful objective thinkers who seek to maintain high standards, regardless of changes going on around them.

Which description fits you? Can you think of people you work with and what their reaction to change might be?

Regardless of which description fits you, I am thankful for the God who has wired me the way He has and for the God that allows change and walks with me through it. How about you?

miahannahs.com

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 23:50:00 +0000

miahannahs.com

Welcoming New Families

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:36:00 +0000

A few weekends ago, I had the opportunity to talk with a family that was new to Faith Promise. As we talked, I found out that this "single again" dad with two school age children had taken his first step in looking for a new church family. He completed the necessary forms to get his children "checked in" and received a map of our children's environments. Soon after, a member of our host team escorted this father and his children to their classrooms. What struck me, was the look on his face as our volunteers took extra steps to make him feel comfortable.

A while back, I read a quote from Andy Stanley that said, “The Church is a family expecting guests in their home.” That’s often easier said than done. I believe our family registration host team at Faith Promise does a great job at making people feel welcome. But of course, we are always looking for ways to improve. We have to be constantly aware of how our first time families feel.

One key question is: Do they observe "organized friendliness"? The focus should be on the needs of the worshippers – from the time they enter the parking lot until they are seated for worship. For first time guests with young children, we have the added step of guiding them through the child registration area, giving an overview of our drop-off and pick-up procedures, and answering any questions parents may have about our nursery, preschool area or school-age environments. It’s best handled by a host team that not only have the gifts to express social warmth, but are also willing to commit their time and energy to this ministry.

Our Children's Services Coordinator, Jayne Bass, does just this. She has a team of volunteers who were carefully recruited and sufficiently trained. Most importantly, they are encouraged to be fully motivated.

What are the things you do to welcome guests into your church home? I encourage you to share what "organized friendliness" looks like in your church!

Fostering Creativity

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 23:59:00 +0000

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” ~ Pablo Picasso

I love this quote. Maybe it's because art runs in my family. As a child, I remember watching my father paint- and it was magically. As a mother, I have witnessed my children create unique pieces that have captured my heart. And as someone who works with young children, I can tell you that EVERY child is an artist. Every child is born with a natural creative side. And while it is true that there are variances in creative abilities, it is also true that parents can foster creativity in their children.

Children have an endless well of creative energy. It shows up in the comical lyrics they sing, their imaginative play, and in their natural ability to make something out of anything. We need to foster creativity in our children because it is a form of problem-solving. Creativity involves adaptability and flexibility of thought. These are the same types of skills that educators suggest are critical for students. Plus... creating is just plain fun.

So... if you are a parent- I'd like to offer these ideas to help you stimulate your child's creativity:
* Keep a variety of art supplies on hand. In additional to paints, markers and crayons, include colored chalks, clay, inexpensive pastels, miscellaneous collage items, stickers and a variety of paper of various textures.
* Look for unique items to paint/create with. [For example, instead of a traditional paint brush, how about painting with q-tips? or a toothbush? or dropping paint onto paper with an eye dropper?]
* Remember that the process is what counts, not the final product.
If your child creates a picture and you don't know what it is, ask them. Don't assume you know what they created. Giving them the opportunity to talk about their creation can further their imagination!
* Encourage your child to paint or draw while listening to music. Ask them to draw what they feel from the music.
* Using a piece of long paper or poster board, take your shoes off and paint with your feet! [Okay, so you may want to do that one outside...]
* On a sunny day, use paint brushes and water to "paint" on the sidewalk or driveway.
* Encourage your child to cut out pictures from a magazine. Paste them on paper and ask them to tell a story using the pictures.
* Play shadow puppets at bedtime. Encourage them to create their own character names and story lines for the animals.

I encourage you to give your kids opportunities to explore their creativity. In fact, how about joining in on the procress? You will probably find that you have a little Picasso left in you after all!

Get a Clue!

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 23:20:00 +0000

I love getting together with our children's ministry team. Each person on our team brings their own unique contributions. But sometimes, all of us need a little extra something to get us motivated.

This past week, we began making our big plans for this year's Easter weekend. We already knew that the theme would have a "detective" feel to it, but we just hadn't dwelled on how we would piece it all together. That's when my pal Jennifer Loveday and I came up with an idea. We would host a surprise "CLUE" breakfast for our team. So, we emailed invites and included our guest list [among which were Colonel Mustard, Mrs. White, Mrs. Peacock and Professor Plum].

Dressed as Lady Lavender, I greeted our Clue-less friends at the door. Jen was in the background in full "Inspector" attire. "Mr. Green! Welcome, so good of you to come. Please fix your plate and make your way to your place setting." Each "guest" arrived and took their places. In front of them were costume and prop pieces to go with their character. It was then that the Inspector began her investigation.

"Mrs. White- where were YOU on the morning that the tomb was found empty?"

"Professor Plum, what do YOU say happened to Jesus' body?"

The questioning went on. The evidence became clear. A miracle happened that Sunday. The tomb was empty. Jesus rose from the dead!

By this time, our team is into the theme of the weekend. We "break" character and our real work of piecing together a phenomenal weekend experience for our children begins.

More details on "The Mystery of the Empty Tomb" to come...

Child Dedication Weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 18:54:00 +0000

This weekend, we will have child dedications at our church. We have eight families who are making it public that their children are gifts from God.

I LOVE dedication weekends. I can't think of anything more precious than parents stepping forward to publically make the statement that they will live out Deuteronomy 6 in their homes.

Deut. 6:5-9 [The Message]:

"Love God, your God, with your whole heart. Love him with all that's in you. Love him with all you've got! Write these commandments that I've given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning until the time you fall into bed at night. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder; inscribe them on the doorposts of your homes and on your city gates."

That's some powerful stuff! It is as potent today as it was when Moses wrote this to the people of Israel. It embodies the greatest commandment: LOVE GOD and then goes on to tell us how we can raise our children to love God.

Of course, I love any time our babies and young children are in the front of our church. In addition to being so stinking cute, their presence reminds our congregation about a whole population of little people that they are helping to shape. Little people that will only be little for a short period of time. Little people that are part of the church today and that will be our leaders tomorrow.

Child Dedications symbolize the hope of the Church. Can you imagine what this world would be like if every parent lived out Deut. 6:5-9 in their home? Wow...talk about the possibility of the world being transformed...

Did I mention that I LOVE chid dedication weekends?

Getting Creative in 2010!

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:20:00 +0000

One of our ministry goals for 2010 is to add some fresh elements to our preschool environments. If our imaginations are left to wander, our preschool team can come up with grandiose plans to add a "wow factor" to our classrooms. Unfortunately, our ideas often come with a grandiose price tag.

Maybe you are a ministry leader looking to make some changes to your area. Or perhaps you are a parent re-doing a playroom or bedroom. Regardless, here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing while also working within a budget.

1] Brainstorm. Watch a few episodes of Design on a Dime or Trash Hunters. Design on a Dime features ideas on how to remake/refurbish items you already own. On Trash Hunters, designers actually furnish an entire house with items they receive for free or dirt cheap. If nothing else, these shows will get you moving in the right direction.
2]Remember that 20% of your dollars make up about 80% of your wow factor.
3]Settle on a theme for the room. Then, choose one main item that will be the central part of your room. You will spend more of your resources on this item, and accentuate this item with cheaper pieces.
3]Remember the importance of paint. Paint is the cheapest way to upgrade a room. For children's areas, research colors that work well for the environment you are creating.
4] Look in a variety of places for materials. Some great ideas can come to you just by strolling the aisles of Home Depot or by browsing through a Pottery Barn catalog. Check out the Kidology website for churches and organizations selling and swapping equipment. Check out businesses that are going out of business for items you can use. [A friend of mine once bought an indoor playground from a restaurant that went out of business.]
5] Spread the word about your project and use the talents of your friends, parents and volunteers to complete the job.

Best wishes on adding new WOW factors to your children's spaces!

Free Will & Parenting

noreply@blogger.com (Mia Hannahs) — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 03:46:00 +0000

Each Christmas, my mother in law pulls out Christmas poems and artwork that her grandchildren gave her and proudly displays them on her refrigerator. This year, a school project that my oldest [who is now 19] caught my eye. It featured a crayon drawing of a family around a Christmas tree and a letter explaining what Christmas meant to him. In 4th grade language, he wrote about his belief in Jesus and how much he loved God for sending his Son to us.

Gazing upon this, I had flashbacks to him as a school age child. A school age child who loved church and loved God. I remembered Sunday School discussions. I remember answering questions about why Jesus died on the cross. And I remember how excited he was about his baptism.

Flash forward to present day. He is 19, a college freshman, and is struggling with what he believes. And this breaks my heart. It is especially hard for me when I think about what God has called me to do: plant the Truth in the lives of young people. Why would my son turn from what he knows?

I have retraced all of my parenting steps. And I could beat myself up for not being perfect. But the truth is, I'm not perfect. No parent is. Except God.

God never promised us that if we follow a magic formula that our children will turn out how we wish. The Bible gives us inspiration on how to parent. It teaches us how to guide and direct our children. But children grow up to make choices. Their own choices. And while parents have influence, there is no cause and effect.

So, where do I go now?
* I can be sensitive to where he is now. I can ask questions and try to connect in an area that he is comfortable with.
* I can continue to show God to him by the way I love him.
* I can pray.
* I can cling to the promises that God has given.

I know that one day he will proclaim Jesus as King. In the meantime, I will not let the devil fill my mind with doubt and fear. We sometimes think that we can program our kids... if we do the right things, they will come out the right way. But God isn't that way. Each of us, including our children, have free will. Without free will, all of us would be puppets.

And so, I wait. Wayward or not, he is still made in the image of God. And when he realizes that again, it is going to be a celebration!