Mike McCrary

Unprogramming Evangelism

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 06:59:02 PDT

"I love it when a plan comes together," my favorite show of the 80's said. When it comes to evangelism, I think we need both programs and no-programs. On one hand, a plan is needed to coordinate and maximize church efforts with unity and vision. On the other hand, we do not see many plans of evangelism in the Bible. There was organization, though. For example, in Acts 6, the disciples recruited qualified disciples to share the burden of the ministry. What about about evangelism programming?

Henri Nouwen said it well:
We must go out because we want to share with all people the abundant love and hope, joy and peace that Jesus brought to us. We want to "proclaim the unfathomable treasure of Christ" and "throw light on the inner workings of the mystery kept hidden through all ages in God, the creator of everything" (Ephesians 3:8-9). What we have received is so beautiful and so rich that we cannot hold it for ourselves but feel compelled to bring it to every human being on earth.

I like reminding myself to not over program things that ought to be normal for Christians. We must balance organic ministry with planning.

Harvey Cox on the False Religion of Today

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 06:37:15 PDT

Many Christians have asked, "What is the most pressing issue facing Christianity?" Harvey Cox, former Harvard Professor of Religion, not only identified a pressing answer to the question, but also brings it to light in a fresh way.

The collection of essays in The Globalization of Pentecostalism examines the changing paradigms of Pentecostalism. Dempster, Klaus, and Peterson have organized the essays around three themes: Changing Paradigms in Pentecostal Scholarly Reflection, Pentecostalism as a Global Culture, and Issues Facing Pentecostalism in a Postmodern World. Each essay is a window into contemporary Pentecostal scholarship that demonstrates vigorous interaction with critical issues.

The final section tackles the issues facing Pentecostalism in culture. Cox provides a provocative and prophetic challenge to the Pentecostal movement. He establishes the premise that the global culture is the form of a false idolatrous religion, which he identifies as consumerism. Consumerism in this context is defined as promoting the interests of self more than God and His priorities. How would you describe consumerism as a false religion? What elements make up a false religion?

This pseudo-religion exhibits all the qualities of a classical religion, Cox says. It has a plan of salvation and an army of missionaries, spreading their gospel by promoting consumer-centered ethics. It has an eschatology, which describes capitalism as the ultimate victor. It even has an invisible hand that guides it, under whose influence "all things work together for the common good."

Cox challenges church leaders to prophetically engage in critiquing this god and its ideology. Christians, however, are not against culture per se, but opposed to the false ethics that dictate the meaning of life. We walk the tension of being "in our culture but not of our culture." We need to recapture our uniqueness as Christians, resist this mainstream god’s values, and renew our commitment to simplicity and communal support, which marked the earliest disciples of Christ.

This issue might not be the most pressing issue of time, but it important to take inventory of what and who centers your life. Is there more to this life than just consuming until the grave? Who is it that orders your priorities?

CARPE DIEM - Nine Essential Preaching Principles

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 07:07:57 PDT

A friend of mine, Nik White, and I recently sat down to evaluate my preaching strengths and areas where I can improve. This is truly a humbling, yet transforming exercise. I initiated the meeting because I was feeling particularly bad for one of the brow beaters I recently delivered to the amazing church I serve. Many pulpits bear an encouragement such as “Preach the Word,” but one pulpit bore an amusing message to the preacher. It was a simple but searching question: “What are you trying to do to these people?”

The evaluation proved incredibly helpful to me. We talked at length about how great sermons marry visceral applications with practical/intellectual applications. This exercise got me thinking about what other authors and teachers have said are the most important preaching principles. What if you could synthesize all the principles down to something memorable?

The 1989 film Dead Poets Society starred Robin Williams as a literature professor and pseudo father at a boy’s boarding school. The movie climaxed when the school administrator dismissed and asked Williams’s character to leave during a class while his students watched. His final words to his passionate students were “Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” Popularly translated, the Latin phrase carpe diem, means seize the day.

Because of the cultural tectonic shift happening right now, we must return to God’s Word to seize the day for his glory. Carpe Diem serves me as a memorable outline for the nine essential principles of preaching. I have seen and heard these principles discussed in preaching literature for the last ten years. There are more principles, for sure, but these are the ones that consistently make messages and messengers great.

1. Closeness with God - Power in preaching comes from closeness with God and not from trying to impress people.

2. Authentic Delivery - Be yourself. Confidence in our unique voice is a matter of trust in God.

3. Relevant Application - Relevant preaching requires us to live with the chronic pain of merging reflection and biblical application.

4. Pointed Idea - Pointed preaching is difficult because it requires us to identify a controlling idea.

5. Engaging Curiosity - Preachers must generate curiosity for the sermon to be engaging.

6. Dependable Exegesis - A dependable sermon is founded on an accurate exegesis of Scripture.

7. Integrated Process - “Preaching without notes does not mean preparation without notes. Indeed, carefully constructed notes are the basis of freedom from note in preaching.”

8. Evaluative Feedback - The purpose of evaluation is transformation through true feedback.

9. Memorable Intent - Anything memorable has two distinct qualities: It is worth remembering and it can be easily remembered.

Wounded Healers

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 06:38:24 PDT

I love how Henri Nouwen teaches how the wounds in our lives can be blessings to others.

Nobody escapes being wounded. We all are wounded people, whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. The main question is not "How can we hide our wounds?" so we don't have to be embarrassed, but "How can we put our woundedness in the service of others?" When our wounds cease to be a source of shame, and become a source of healing, we have become wounded healers.

Jesus is God's wounded healer: through his wounds we are healed. Jesus' suffering and death brought joy and life. His humiliation brought glory; his rejection brought a community of love. As followers of Jesus we can also allow our wounds to bring healing to others.

The Wounded Healer - Henri Nouwen

Hoarders - Spiritually Buried Alive

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 06:14:19 PST

Hoarding is stocking goods, usually in secret from others, because of it's perceived value. Hoarding is a manifestation of fear. Fearful people are inclined to develop a mind-set that says: "There's not enough food for everyone, so I better be sure I save enough for myself in case of emergency," or "There's not enough knowledge for everyone to enjoy; so I'd better keep my knowledge to myself, so no one else will use it" or "There's not enough love to give to everybody, so I'd better keep my friends for myself to prevent others from taking them away from me."

This is a scarcity mentality. It involves hoarding whatever we have, fearful that we won't have enough to survive. The tragedy, however, is that what you cling to ends up rotting in your hands.

God is a god of abundance, not a god of scarcity. Jesus reveals to us God's abundance when he offers so much bread to the people that there are twelve large baskets with leftover scraps (John 6:5-15), and when he makes his disciples catch so many fish that their boat nearly sinks (Luke 5:1-7).

Henri Nouwen said, "As long as we say, 'I will love you, God, but first show me your generosity,' we will remain distant from God and unable to experience what God truly wants to give us, which is life and life in abundance." God is a generous giver, but we can only see and enjoy God's generosity when we love God with all of our hearts, minds, and strength.

*Reflections on Henri Nouwen's book Bread for the Journey.

Don't live your spiritual life alone? (What is semi-Pelagianism?)

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 07:36:35 PDT

I have been reading through Romans lately for personal study and pleasure. My professor, Doug Oss, stirred my mental pot a little on what is commonly called semi-Pelagianism. I did a quick refresher on the 1660 year old argument and decided to pass on the fruit for the one follower I have on this miserable blog (it's miserable because I rarely write).

Pelagius was a British monk who came to North Africa from Rome. Augustine (properly pronounced Au-gust-tin) launched a strenuous literary attack on Pelagianism around the middle of the 4th century. By 419 the Pelagians were banished by the Emperor Honorius, and in 431 they were condemned by the General Council of the Church meeting at Ephesus.

Why? What did Pelagius teach to arouse Augustine’s vigorous opposition? The monk denied that human sin is inherited from Adam. Man, he said, is free to act righteously or sinfully. Moreover, death is not a consequence of Adam’s disobedience. Adam, indeed, introduced sin into the world, but only by his corrupting example. There is no direct connection between his sin and the moral condition of mankind. Almost all the human race have sinned; but it is possible not to sin and some people have in fact lived without sin.

Pelagian also taught that forgiveness comes to all who exercise “faith alone”; but, once forgiven, man has power of himself to live pleasing to God. Thus, Pelagius found no real need for the special enabling power of the Holy Spirit. Many evangelicals, including Pentecostals, consider this semi-Pelagianism. Semi-Pelagianism is the idea that Christian life is practically self-control.

All this was in sharp contrast to Augustine’s own experience. He sensed profoundly the depth of his sin and therefore the greatness of God’s salvation. He felt that nothing less than irresistible divine power (grace) could have saved him from his sin and only constantly inflowing divine grace could keep him in the Christian life. His Christian ideal was no self-control but love for righteousness infused by the Spirit of God.

This is how Bruce Shelley sums up Augustine’s anthropology: “In Augustine’s view, Adam’s sin had enormous consequences. His power to do right was gone. In a word, he died, spiritually — and soon, physically. But he was not alone in his ruin. Augustine taught that the whole human race was ‘in Adam’ and shared his fall. Mankind became a ‘mass of corruption,’ incapable of any good [saving] act. Every individual, from earliest infancy to old age, deserves nothing but damnation.”

Romans 8:2 says, For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

We can never satisfy God’s righteous requirements by human effort. Our spiritual life requires a transformation born of the Spirit, by the Spirit, and through the Spirit to truly reconcile us with God. Don't try to live your spiritual life alone. You can't do it. It is the Spirit's fruit working in us that produces the character of Jesus in us (Gal. 5).

Peace

Bruce L. Shelley, Church History in Plain Language, Updated 2nd ed. (Dallas, Tex.: Word Pub., 1995), 129-30.

Simple and to the Point

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:48:02 PDT

Apple just released a new logo yesterday for iTunes. It has received criticism and praise. I love watching how people respond to both.

The is a blog excerpt from Mac Rumors, a blog I read fairly often on Apple related issues.

"Wired reports that one user sent Jobs an email criticizing the new logo for its design and abandonment of the iTunes brand that has developed over the years.

Steve,

Enjoyed the presentation today. But...this new iTunes logo really sucks. You're taking 10+ years of instant product recognition and replacing it with an unknown. Let's both cross our fingers on this...

Despite all of the activity surrounding the media event, Jobs took the time to respond with another one of his brief, to-the-point emails:

We disagree.

Sent from my iPhone"

I'm not exactly sure why, but I find Steve's response refreshing.

Peace out!

Marriage - Me to We

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:17:15 PDT

I began a new series last night in New Community on marriage. We are calling it "Me to We." I know my friend and uber blogger, Meg White, thinks it is a dorky play on words. Well, I am a bit dorkey (let's be honest). All kidding aside, marriage is important to God, the body of Christ, and your spouse. Read Ephesians 5:21-27 and ask the Spirit of God to show you how to love your spouse better.

Ryan Moore, the Assemblies of God Young Adult Director, sent me this clip from Matt Chandler on the topic of marriage.

Check it out.

Crazy Fun at the Cardinals Game

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:47:40 PDT

Pastor Jeff, Doug Clay and I had some fun last night at the Springfield Cardinals game. Pastor Jeff and Doug actually won the entire race!

Pastor Jeff Peterson's Serious Tricycle Race from Mike McCrary on Vimeo.

Two Questions that Every Believer must Settle

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:28:07 PDT

Miles Stanford said, "There are two questions that every believer must settle as soon as possible. The one is, Does God fully accept me? and the second, If so, upon what basis does He do so?"

The answer to these questions is crucial.

Eph 1:3-6
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved (ESV).

God’s basis must be our basis for acceptance. There is no other. Our Father is fully satisfied with His beloved Son on our behalf, and there is no reason for us not to be. Our satisfaction can only spring from and rest in His satisfaction. It is from God to us, not from us to God.

Sadly today, most believers actually reason just the opposite—from themselves to God. When all is going well and God seems to be blessing, then it is that they feel He loves and accepts them. But when they are stumbling and everything seems dry and hard, then they feel that He does not love and accept them.

There is nothing about us to commend us to God, our acceptance being in Christ, plus the fact that most of our true spiritual development comes through the dry and hard times.

Thank God, He has accepted us in His Son, and upon this fact we must rest our faith. As in justification, our acceptance is by grace alone. It is from God to us, not from us to God.

- Adapted from Miles J. Stanford, Complete Works of Miles J. Stanford (Galaxie Software, 2002; 2002).

Relevance and the Power of Story

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 09:48:31 PDT

I recently finished a project trying to discover what principles comprise effective communication. One of those principles was relevant application. During an interaction with my mom, she said, "A good preacher makes meaningful statements that awe his listeners; an exceptional preacher makes statements meaningful which inspire his listeners. It is a matter of how far the action goes. Does it end at the ear during the service or does it soak into the heart, mind, and soul of the listener? Is it taken out into daily life for reference, decision making, and personal commitment?”

One of the things the Heath brothers talk about in Made to Stick is an idea’s concreteness, which is application to life. “We must explain our ideas in terms of human actions, in terms of sensory information. In proverbs, abstract truths are encoded in concrete language. ‘A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.’”

One tool is storytelling. For example, firefighters naturally swap stories after every fire and by doing so they multiply their experience both for themselves and others. Similarly, hearing stories acts as a kind of mental flight simulator, preparing listeners to respond in daily life. Stories can almost defeat what the Heath brothers call the curse of knowledge. Knowledge has cursed us. Once we know something, we find it hard to imagine what it was like not to know it. Stories help transfer our knowledge to others because it is difficult to re-create our listeners’ state of mind.

Stories are not neutral. The stories we hear change the way we see life. Stories teach us what is worth pursuing, what is worth living for, and what is worth sacrificing for. For example, if a person wants a boat and is willing to work overtime to get it, then the moral of the story is we work hard and some day you will get a boat. It is not a bad story, but it is not a good one, either.

Preaching with your Authentic Voice

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:05:06 PDT

Communicators can be impatient to find a “style” – to embellish the simple words so that listeners will recognize us as someone special. We buy sermons (in my case) and resources, as if “style” were something we could buy at a conference and drape onto our sermons. There is no style store; style is organic to the person doing the preaching, as much a part of him as his hair, or, if he is bald, his lack of it.

Trying to add style is like adding a toupee. At first glance, the formerly bald man looks young and handsome, but at second glance, he does not look quite right. The problem is not that he does not look well groomed because he does, but we can only admire the wigmaker’s skill. The point is that he does not look like himself. Therefore, a fundamental principle is: Be yourself. Confidence in our unique voice is a matter of trust in God.

In View from the Pew, Lora-Ellen McKinney says, “Confidence attracts. Humility endears. Arrogance distances. Performance, rather than preaching, insults. Be humble. Make it easy for God to work in and through you.” She warns preachers not to be showmen. We should speak God’s Word while allowing our personal journeys with God to shine through and illustrate our messages.

We need to start by asking ourselves who we really are. Then we must decide to take that person, that real person, into every ministry setting. Ministry does not need clones, or people wearing masks, pretending to be all things to all people. What is the most transparent version of ourselves that we can bring into the pulpit? Authenticity is the practice of integrity with who God has created us to be. Too many of us refuse to be ourselves and, instead, imitate better-known preachers or authors. Why fear being yourself? Deliver God’s message your way.

Keep the main thing the main thing: Closeness with God

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 20 May 2010 14:20:23 PDT

No principle is more essential than closeness with God. It requires us to do two things that by our metabolism are impossible. We must relax, and we must retreat.

Chuck Miller, in The Spiritual Formation of Leaders, describes two rooms that every person needs to manage—the Soul Room and the Leadership Room. He points out that “The church has tended to move type A people into leadership and the more reflective people toward prayer and spirituality. We end up forcing people to make an unnecessary choice between spirituality and leadership.” That, of course, is where the problem starts. When we meet with God in the Soul Room, he prepares us to serve him in the Leadership Room.Telling a person to relax today is like telling a man to relax while being examined for a hernia. As for retreating, most of us cannot even guard one day for rest.

However, even during his active ministry, Jesus nurtured closeness with the Father. “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Lk 5:16). If we do not have a close life with God, our public life for God cannot bear fruit. Solitude, silence, ordinary tasks, being with people without great agendas, sleeping, eating, working, playing; that is the life that Jesus lived and the life he asks us to live.

Old Testament Names of God

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:53:42 PST

New Community is beginning a new series called Origins. Daniel Guy, a creative team member, came up with this idea after watching the movie Wolverine. The premise is that origin defines purpose. We will explore what the Bible says about Creation, Covenant, Christ, and the Church.

Because of the interest sparked from "Yahweh," a new song from Hillsong, and the help of my new software Logos (best there is), I thought I'd share the Old Testament names of God with the couple of those who follow this blog. I hope this will be an encouragement to you.

GOD - 16 Old Testament Names

1. Elohim, meaning “God,” a reference to God’s power and might Gen. 1:1; Ps. 19:1
2. Adonai, meaning “Lord,” a reference to the Lordship of God Mal. 1:6
3. Jehovah (sometimes spelled Yahweh), a reference to God’s divine salvation Gen. 2:4
4. Jehovah-Maccaddeshem, meaning “The Lord thy sanctifier” Exod. 31:13
5. Jehovah-Rohi, meaning “The Lord my shepherd” Ps. 23:1
6. Jehovah-Shammah, meaning “The Lord who is present” Ezek. 48:35
7. Jehovah-Rapha, meaning “The Lord our healer” Exod. 16:26
8. Jehovah-Tsidkenu, meaning “The Lord our righteousness” Jer. 23:6
9. Jehovah-Jireh, meaning “The Lord will provide” Gen. 22:13-14
10. Jehovah-Nissi, meaning “The Lord our banner” Exod. 17:15
11. Jehovah-Shalom, meaning “The Lord is peace” Judg. 6:24
12. Jehovah-Sabbaoth, meaning “The Lord of Hosts” Isa. 6:1-3
13. El-Elyon, meaning “The most high God” Gen. 14:17-20; Isa. 14:13-14
14. El-Roi, meaning “The strong one who sees” Gen. 16:12
15. El-Shaddai, meaning “The God of the mountains” or “God almighty” Gen. 17:1; Ps. 91:1
16. El-Olam, meaning “The everlasting God” Isa. 40:28-31

Mistakes and Learning from Jesus

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:06:50 PST

I hope you make mistakes, learn from them, and strive to lead like Jesus.

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” —Winston Churchill (1874–1965).

I recently read a blog from one of my favorite companies called Bonobos. Bonobos is a US company that manufactures great pants and polos (the standard in dress for me). Andy Dunn, the CEO of Bonobos, recently blogged about two mistakes the company plans to make only once. They over-advertised and over-promoted the product. He vowed to only make those mistakes once.

What a great challenge - Learn from mistakes (don't stop there) and take action.

Thomas Edison was interviewed by a young reporter who boldly asked Edison if he felt like a failure. Perplexed, Edison replied, "Young man, why would I feel like a failure? And why would I ever give up? I now know definitively over 9,000 ways that an electric light bulb will not work. Success is almost in my grasp." And shortly after that, and over 10,000 attempts, Edison invented the light bulb.

Seth Godin, a thought-leader maverick, bolstered this point by writing, "the problem is that you can't have good ideas unless you're willing to generate a lot of bad ones."

I struggle with failure. I hate it. I never like loosing any game whether it's Candyland or football. Consequently, I do not attempt something if I fear that I will fail. One attitude that has transformed my anxiety is called self-differentiation. Self-differentiation enables a person to not become entangled with the anxious reaction usually accompanied by a failure (or loss). Here is a short essay on the concept and how it applies to church leadership.

John Maxwell in his book Failing Forward said, "When you fall down, pick up something [learn a lesson from the failure] while you are down there."

Here are the mistakes from 2009 that I plan only making once.

1. Heed the warning label. In January, I was prescribed Transderm Scop as a precaution for motion sickness before traveling in Israel. The warning read, "Some patients report dizziness after using patch for more than 3 days." I wore the patch for 14 days (insert laughter). And although I did not get sick in Israel, I was dizzy for two weeks after the trip. The lesson learned is to heed the warning label on prescriptions. Warning signs are important.

2. Be yourself and allow people to see you grow. Do you try to prove you are better than you are? I do. When we serve that constant pressure to prove to somebody that we are a good leader or a spiritual person or an able writer, then the spotlight is on us. That same pressure also sets us up to try too hard, get in the flesh, and do dumb things. Worst of all, it keeps us leading out of our insecurities instead of true humility. The lesson learned is about daily growth and authenticity.

3. Fail. I did not ask enough questions in 2009. I only gave only obvious solutions to problems.

It is easy to associate personal feelings with your questions or suggestions. Stop living under the self imposed pressure that you should have all the answers to every problem. Share the responsibility with someone you trust.

Jesus told his self-conscious, poor, and doubting apostles that just as the Father sent him so he sends them into the world (Jn 17:18; 20:21). Jesus entrusted them with greatest of all commissions (Matt. 28). Supposedly, I am to Lead like Jesus. I am learning. At times however, I cannot entrust people beyond menial office tasks. Jesus challenges and stretches me to not self-promote and self-protect, which are the leading motivations dominating most leadership landscapes.

There is a better way to lead. Whether you are a single mom parenting your child, a navy soldier overseeing a cadre, a friend who is risking image to befriend another not in your circle, or a teacher stimulating the minds of eight graders, Jesus' way of leadership is servanthood.

I hope you make mistakes, learn from them, and strive to lead like Jesus.

Embracing a Maverick - "You can be my wing man anytime."

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:14:20 PST

I have some trepidation with writing anything on the topic of leadership because I rarely feel that I have anything to say. However, something formative happens when topics that have been studied become tangible experiences. For example, a friend of mine was recently accused of an action contrary to their character. The effect of being falsely accused renewed their conviction of careful speech especially in regards to ones character.

Over the years in church leadership, I have worked with several mavericks (although I haven't worked with John McCain). The word maverick is defined by Wikipedia as “an unbranded range animal”, “One who does not abide by rules” or “one who creates or uses unconventional and/or controversial ideas or practices”. The word originates from Samuel Maverick who was considered independent minded after he refused to brand his cattle in the tradition fashion.

Mid-pack mavericks, who are typically not the senior leaders and lead from the middle of the organizational flow chart, often cause friction with other more passive leaders. Mavericks can cause friction in any organization because of their outlaw ideas which challenge the status quo. Some display the "challenge the status quo" badge proudly for all to see and recognize. If a maverick is unaware or immature, their style could result in termination or worse - isolation. Other mavericks demonstrate health and balance; knowing when to challenge and when to suspend their thought-style of leadership.

I wonder if some leaders (like me) do to mavericks what zoos do to animals. We cage the maverick until he or she is broken of their will to lead. Let me first admit that I am guilty of marginalizing mavericks and not embracing them. However, I have come to realize that mavericks are a gift to organization. You need them. Ask yourself, have I made it impossible for bright go-getters to live within the organization?

The humorous thing to me is that I have never known a maverick who needed to be convinced that he or she has something to offer their organization. Mavericks (how should say it) do not struggle for opinions. Mavericks often struggle with insecurity like most people. This means that their passion is not often pure but tainted with anger or a fear of being treated as insignificant. A good hard look in the mirror at our own faults will result in a deeper understand of humanity and has led me to embrace those with different styles of leadership. A good leader does not have to be the smartest, the most creative, or a necessarily a maverick. A good leader is involved with something they believe in. A good leader paints a picture of what could happen and goes there. When I reread the previous sentence, how can anyone not understand why a maverick is valuable to an organization.

"When we become too preoccupied with policy, procedure, and the fine-tuning of conformity to organizational standards, in effect, we have squeezed out some of our most gifted people.” – Hans Finzel, “The Top Ten Mistakes Leaders Make”

Mavericks are essential in every organization. Giving them the accountability, encouragement and opportunity to contribute makes all the difference.

Accountability - Mavericks need honest leaders and friends. Leaders must thoughtfully set boundaries for mavericks like who makes the final decision, when it is appropriate to challenge (i.e. all meetings are not equal opportunities), and the process for expressing their thoughts. It is helpful to utilize the "dead dog" parenting technique which says, "never tell a child (or maverick) to do something a 'dead dog' could do." For example, it is not empowering to say, "don't challenge our decision." If a dead dog can obey your guidance then you are not leading effectively.

The thought-leader maverick has responsibilities as well. First, it is necessary for the maverick to care not just for their ideas but for the goals of the organization. Second, mavericks need to earn the right to be heard. For example, mavericks should qualify their thoughts with phrases like "I'm not an expert" or "I'm new here" if either their expertise or expereince is limited. Finally, I believe it is important for mavericks to be good listeners. Being a successful listener requires attention to the speaker and asking great questions.

Encouragement - First, put them in charge of something they can really own and measure achievement. Second, listen to their ideas and give them time to grow. Finally, stoke their mind's creativity with spontaneity. For example, let them work on their own if they wish or assign a vital research and development project to them accomplish.

Whether you are dealing with a "maverick" or a "goose" (sorry for the Top Gun lingo), lead by respecting others and treat them the way you yourself would like to be treated.

Philo of Alexandria said "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle."

Jesus of Nazareth said, "In everything, therefore, treat people that same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets."

I hope as encouragement and accountability work in tandem in your leadership, it will help you as it has helped me. Of course, leadership is a journey through which we learn about ourselves and see the full capacity of the human soul at work. Keep learning. Stay humble. Look Upward to Jesus.

-M

When God Goes to Starbucks

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:13:35 PST

When God Goes to Starbucks: A Guide to Everyday Apologetics

Paul Copan recently wrote a great book on apologetics.

More than ever, tough questions from friends and neighbors naturally arise in relaxed conversations. In the relationships that I’m nurturing with seekers, more often than not, I end up having conversations about faith in neutral non-threatening locations. It is outside of the church building when tough questions are posed. Many of these emerge as slogans we are all familiar with:

Aren't people born gay?

When is lying biblically acceptable?

Aren't the Bible's holy wars just like Islamic Jihad?

Paul Copan, a professor of philosophy and ethics at Palm Beach Atlantic University, has provided a resource for answering questions like these in a casual way. He offers readers solid and caring responses to these concerns. Each chapter provides a biblical stance with exemplary thoroughness and points for countering the questions believers are faced with today. He expertly unmasks the problematic "personal autonomy" philosophy that makes "sweeping relativistic claims, but then tacks on absolute, inviolable standards at the end." Copan's skillful approach to apologetics provides ample information on hot-topic themes, but some readers may not be up to the challenge of slowly digesting his thought-provoking, weighty explanations.

Copan realizes that it isn't about winning an argument. And all of this is to be done with gentleness and respect. Personally, I appreciated his emphasis in the introduction, "And when we are talking with people in pain or when people just want to tell their stories, we should be quick to listen and slow to speak (10-11).

Great thoughts of the week!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:32:57 PST

I have compiled a short list of some great thoughts I've stumbled through this week. I have read, heard, felt, and experienced all of them somehow or another...

- Successful organizations spend a lot of time saying, "that's not what we do." "That's not what we do," is the backbone of strategy, it determines who you are and where you're going. Except when opportunities come along. Except when people in the organization forget to ask, "why?" If the only reason you don't do something is because you never did, that's not a good reason. - Seth Godin

- Here's a rule that's so inevitable that it's almost a law: As an organization grows and succeeds, it sows the seeds of its own demise by getting boring. With more to lose and more people to lose it, meetings and policies become more about avoiding risk than providing joy.

- “Though expressed in a variety of behaviors,” Tim Irwin writes, “leaders fail because a lack of failure of one of these four critical qualities” (p. 17):

Authenticity
Self-management
Humility
Courage

- For critical thinkers: Let our minds be focused on the creative and on the constructive above the critical and corrective.

What I wish I knew BEFORE my first marathon!

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:27:50 PST

What I wish I knew BEFORE my first marathon!

I completed the Bass Pro Marathon in 5:30:00 on November 1. Here is a course map.

The best advice I got was at the start line. I was standing next to an older gent and I was nervous as you can imagine. I asked how many marathons he had done up to this point. He replied, “6." Really, “Is this your first?” Yes, my first one. He said these words, “I wish I was you.”

The point he made was to savor the run as much as possible because there is that moment at 20 miles or 22 where you tread new territory that your body has not gone before.

One thing the marathon does is give you plenty of time alone with your thoughts. I stopped to think about my journey from being a couch potato to running in the marathon. I got on to thinking about my inspiration for all this and it all comes back to my beloved wife. None of this would have happened without her gentle unwavering support. I owe her big time.

Now on to the things I learned that no one explicitly told me:
1. Vaseline is your friend.
Use it any place that creates friction (e.g. toes, nipples, arches, stomach, butt, inside legs, etc.)

2. Don't cheat the training.
Find a plan and stick to it. I ran two 18's and one 20 miler. I needed one more 20 miler. In addition, the surface you train on matters. I trained mainly on crushed limestone. The marathon course was almost completely on asphalt.

3. Run easy but stay on pace.
Determine a conservative goal and stick to the pace.

4. Meet new people along the way.
It helps to engage other people in the same boat as you. Plus the encouragement helps pass the time.

5. And last---if both your quads cramp up and feel like someone is pounding nails into both of them at mile 20, walk it off and finish the race. Forget it about the time. Some people race to compete and some race to complete. I completed the race.

Two of Springfield's Finest People

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:14:53 PDT

Today was the Gift of Time Award Banquet at the Oasis Ramada Convention Center in Springfield. This city-wide banquet was sponsored by several local agencies including the Springfield Chamber of Commerce.

Out of 70 nominees, ten Springfield residents were named recipients of the Gift of Time Award for their volunteerism. Two of those ten awards went to Central Assembly members—Bruce Snavely and Judi Murphy! (Dar Matrone was also one of the 70 nominees as well; way to go, Dar!)

We are so proud of them…and the teams they represent (Oil Change, Adopt-a-Block, Food Pantry). Bruce and Judi will be in an upcoming issue of 417 Magazine.

They each represent all the servant-hearted, outreach-oriented people at Central Assembly so well. We’re very proud of Dar, Bruce and Judi! Bruce was on a much-deserved vacation this week, so Karla McHaffie received his award on his behalf. Karla leads the women’s interaction team at the Oil Change Ministry. Thanks, Karla!

Warm Fuzzy!

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:55:05 PDT

A Central Bible College student, Ian Bradley, sent me this picture today from room 330 in Welch. Obviously from the picture, you'll see that was my room. Needless to say I got a warm fuzzy.

Over 10 years later I pray this prayer still today, "Jesus with skin on is all I desire to be."

Amen

Chase the Goose

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Tue, 26 May 2009 10:10:04 PDT

As we come to Pentecost Sunday, I'm reminded how His strength does not come from something in ourselves. If we long to be used, God will give us the power. Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ (Thanks Mark Batterson...www.chasethegoose.com). The Goose certainly hints at the mystery and the excitement of living a Spirit led life.

I love how author Henry Nouwen puts it in Bread for the Journey.

When we speak about the Holy Spirit, we speak about the breath of God, breathing in us. The Greek word for "spirit" is pneuma, which means "breath." We are seldom aware of our breathing. It is so essential for life that we only think about it when something is wrong with it.

The Spirit of God is like our breath. God's spirit is more intimate to us than we are to ourselves. We might not often be aware of it, but without it we cannot live a "spiritual life." It is the Holy Spirit of God who prays in us, who offers us the gifts of love, forgiveness, kindness, goodness, gentleness, peace, and joy. It is the Holy Spirit who offers us the life that death cannot destroy. Let us always pray: "Come, Holy Spirit, come."

Celebrating 10 years

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 18 May 2009 16:55:41 PDT

I called a travel agent for the first time and said, "I need a special trip." Daisy and I are celebrating ten years of marriage in a few weeks. The special trip ended up being a vacation in sunny San Diego. This picture is from our dinner cruise the last night before returning to Springfield. I was amazed and what a little rest and relaxation will do for a relationship...and did I mention the absence of two little children.

Below are a few of the most important nuggets of truth that I have learned/acquired over 10 years:

1. It's alright to ask "is this person is right for me" until you exchange vows. Then the question should change to "how can I be the right person for them." - Jim Bradford

2. Spend at least as much time intentionally planning objectives and memorable moments for your family as you do for your ministry. - Jeanne Mayo

3. Get a marriage coach and listen! - Experience

Love you Daisy and may God 10 more just like the first 10!
- M

Teamwork makes my golf dream work!

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Thu, 14 May 2009 11:28:49 PDT

Going to play golf for AGTS. I'm not much of a golfer but we shot -5 for the day.

The last time I played was last year. I was not looking forward to seeing my own game this tournament. And at the end of the day, I didn't play the course, the course played me. I only had 4 shots that we used including a putt! Painful memory!

Having said that, I love best ball tournaments because they compensate for my weaknesses in driving, chipping, and putting. And you gotta love all monies going to a great school!

Time to Tee Off. Keep it in the short grass.

Daily Decisions and My Desk

noreply@blogger.com (Mike McCrary) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:33:46 PDT

In this most recent season, I have been working hard on several fronts. My desk has become the location of many prayers, much studying, and creative communications.

I've probably spent too much time behind the screen but I realize that this season requires it from me. This season has caused me to focus on a few statements everyday. These statements are important for me because too much hangs in the balance this year not to follow them – for God’s glory and for the sake of those who need us at our best.

1. Put your best energies into your most important relationships;

2. Put your best resources into your highest priorities;

3. Put your best attitudes into your deepest disappointments.

- Mike