Showing posts with label resources. Show all posts
Showing posts with label resources. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

TeuxDeux.com - A Few Thoughts

I started using TeuxDeux.com a few months back because I am constantly trying to find new ways to stay organized. Overall, I really like it and think it would benefit other youth workers. Here are some positives and negatives of TeuxDeux:

Positives:
1. Simple.
You see five days across the screen, with the ability to scroll forward or backward one day at a time. There is no extra clutter or ads on the page. <- I really like this aspect. 2. Easy to use.
When you want to add an item to your to-do list, simply type it in on the day you want to accomplish it. It will then be added to the list of items for that day. When you finish the task, you simply click on it and it gets crossed off.

3. Ability to add "someday" items.
At the bottom of the page, you can add items to a list of "someday" things you want to do. This is great for adding items that may not need to be done for months or for making a list of ideas or possibilities.

4. Mobile apps in the works.
According to the FAQ's, there is a mobile app in the works for iPhone and possibly Blackberry. This would make TeuxDeux a better solution for those who are not close to a computer throughout the day.


Negatives:
1. Recurring items.
There is no simple way to add recurring items without manually retyping them into each new day.

2. Only move one day at a time.
Right now, you can only move one day forward and backward, at a time. According to the FAQ's, there is supposed to be a forthcoming feature allowing the ability to jump to a farther off date more quickly. But until that release, you must simply live in the week or sluggishly click one day at a time.


If you need a way to track what needs to be done, I suggest you try out TeuxDeux.com. It's free and easy to use. But if you are still not sure, check out this video:

TeuxDeux Demo from TeuxDeux on Vimeo.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Every Youth Worker Needs: a book genre reading list (or part 2)

(Youth ministry is not an easy ministry. And in this series, Every Youth Worker Needs:..., I want to highlight a variety of things that might make your ministry a little easier. This ongoing series will include ministry tips, book suggestions, technology helps, and many other nuggets of advice.)


Yesterday I said that every youth worker needed to read a variety of literature. Today, I am offering my list of suggested genres that every youth worker should consider reading. Included with each genre is a list of good books that I have read, in case you need something more specific, to help you get started.

1. Leadership
- Visioneering by Andy Stanley
- Fish by Lundin, Paul, Christensen
- The Generosity Factor by Ken Blanchard and Truett Cathy
- Choosing to Cheat by Andy Stanley
- Mazimizing Your Effectiveness by Aubrey Malphurs
- The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
- The Dip by Seth Godin

2. General Ministry
- Church Staff Handbook by Harold Westing
- One Size Doesn't Fit All by Gary McIntosh
- Multiple Staff and the Larger Church by Lyle Schaller
- In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen

3. Youth Ministry
- Sustainable Youth Ministry by Mark DeVries (my review)
- Purpose Driven Youth Ministry by Doug Fields
- Junior High Ministry by Wayne Rice
- Your First Two Years in Youth Ministry by Doug Fields
- Hurt by Chap Clark

4. Fiction/Classics
- The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy (looks at death & dying)
- Blink by Ted Dekker
- Bleachers by John Grisham
- Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
- A Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards
- The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Hadden

5. Theology/Biblical Study
- Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics by Walter Kaiser and Moises Silva
- 60-Second Guide to Denominations by Shelly Steig
- Simply Christian by N.T. Wright (my review)
- Called to Worship by Vernon Whaley (my review)
- Hidden Worldviews by Steve Wilkens and Mark Sanford

6. Christian Living
- Unquenchable Worshipper by Matt Redman
- Ordering Your Private World by Gordon MacDonald
- Messy Spirituality by Mike Yaconell
- Soul Survivor by Mike Pilavachi
- Restoring Margin to Overloaded Lives by Richard Swenson & Karen Lee-Thorp

7. Books that make you think
- Addiction and Grace by Gerald May
- flashBANG by Mark Steele
- Me, Myself, and Bob by Phil Vischer (my review)
- free refill by Mark Atteberry
- Culture Making by Andy Crouch (my review)
- Signature Sins by Michael Mangis

8. Humor
- since we all laugh at different things, I'm going to let you find your own books that cause you to chuckle. But you do need to make sure you include this into your reading rotation.

If you need any other ideas, you can find some while browsing through the book reviews from this blog.


(Every Youth Worker Needs: A Blog Series About Things You Need in Youth Ministry)

Monday, March 15, 2010

"Minute to Win It" - youth ministry game resource

Over the last few weeks, I have watched previews for NBC's new shows. One show in particular caught my attention (and the attention of the rest of the youth ministry world) "Minute to Win It." Basically, contestants have one minute to complete a game using simple household items. If they complete ten games, then they win 1 million dollars. As I watched the commercials, I kept seeing games I have played with my youth groups. One is the "shrinking grocery bag" game (where the bag keeps getting shorter and shorter and you have to pick it up with your teeth.) I like the single player version better than the way I played. At a 30 Hour Famine we played where you went around a circle and everyone tried to pick it up. My version is not nearly as sanitary as the games version.

If you have not heard of "Minute to Win It" you need to check it out. It's on Sunday nights at 7 central. You also need to check out the website for the game. Up until a few days ago, I knew about the game, but I had not realized that the show's website would be a great help to youth workers until I read Youth Ministry Geek's post. You need to go check out the game vault and use a game or two.

Before I hit "publish" I feel I need to offer this word of warning to youth workers everywhere. Please do not saturate the youth ministry world with an abundance of "Minute to Win It" games or retreats or evangelism events. These games will be a great addition to your events, but DO NOT overdue it. I saw it happen with youth ministry versions of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" (and many other pop culture things) and students get tired of it.


Remember that moderation is a good thing.

One last comment (question). I know there will be a t-shirt soon based on "Minute to Win It," but I just can't figure out what it will say. Do you have any thoughts?

Monday, January 11, 2010

Every Youth Worker Needs: a receipt scanner

(Youth ministry is not an easy ministry. And in this series, Every Youth Worker Needs:..., I want to highlight a variety of things that might make your ministry a little easier. This ongoing series will include ministry tips, book suggestions, technology helps, and many other nuggets of advice.)

Every Youth Worker Needs: a receipt scanner
Unless you work in a very unique congregation, you have to turn in receipts in order to get reimbursed. This administrative task is always time consuming and boring. Not the reason you became a youth minister at all. But we all know that if we do not do this on a regular basis, monthly at least, then it becomes too overwhelming and then it does not get done. At the end of this train of thought is no reimbursements for items purchased (or what we ministers like to call "donations to the ministry").

I have recently come across a great little gadget that makes the process of organizing and totaling receipts much simpler. At least that is what the internet and "gift buying" news segment says. As I have watched this product in action and have seen the software to organize the items on the receipts, I have to say I am impressed.

All you have to do is slide the receipt through the scanner, if you have the travel version - which is cheaper and probably all a youth worker needs. Then after all of the receipts are scanned, you go into the program and determine which items go under which categories and which items do not need to be added to the report. Once this is done, you just print off the report and turn it in to the finance committee. (Who will probably be in amazement that a youth worker is so organized and uses spreadsheets.)

Go to this website to see the receipt scanner by neat

(I do not own one of these time saving devices, so consider it on the list of things you can get me if ever you want to get me something.)

Friday, December 18, 2009

Best of '09: Youth Ministry Books

The year 2009 A.D. is almost over. The past 12 months have brought with them many new things; some good, some bad, and some not worth mentioning. I would like to take some time and highlight some of my favorite parts of 2009. I will call this list the "best of '09" - which simply means that, in my opinion, these are the best items in a certain category. I fully expect you to disagree with some of my choices or to be upset I did not add other items to the list. If you feel this way, please add your "best of '09" ideas in the comments.

The second list will be youth ministry books. These are the best youth ministry related books I read this year. They may not all be new in 2009, but this was the year I got around to reading them. This list is in no particular order and will not include every good book I read this year, just a list of my top reads - the ones I found most helpful.


Youth Ministry 3.0
by Mark Oestreicher - I picked up this book in 2008, but did not actually get around to reading it until early this year. Oestreicher writes about many of the struggles and thoughts felt by many youth workers around the country. Whether you agree with everything int he book (and you won't), you need to read it and be challenged to see youth ministry from a different angle. Here is my review of Youth Ministry 3.0.

Help! I'm a Frustrated Youth Worker!
by Steve Case - This book is small and easy to read. Most youth workers will relate to the frustrations Case writes about. I recommend reading this book, even if you only need a reminder that your situation is not "that bad." Here is my review of Help! I'm a Frustrated Youth Worker.

Sustainable Youth Ministry by Mark Devries - Every youth worker wants to be part of a youth ministry that is sustainable. Devries knows a few things about sustainable youth ministries - he has been working with youth ministries across the country for years. This book is a must read for anyone working in a youth ministry of any size and shape. Here is my review of Sustainable Youth Ministry.

Speaking to Teenagers by Doug Fields and Duffy Robbins - Doug and Duffy have written a great resource for anyone who speaks to teenagers. This book is packed with useful information and helpful tips. Here is my review of Speaking to Teenagers.

99 Thoughts for Youth Workers by Josh Griffin - This little book has a lot of great thoughts inside. Josh collected his thoughts on youth ministry, which were written in journals, on napkins (I'm guessing a few of these were once on a napkin), and from his blog. This is especially useful if you are new to youth ministry or feel like you are stuck in a rut. Here is my review of 99 Thoughts for Youth Workers.

The New Breed by Jonathan McKee and Thomas McKee - I'm actually only 2/3 of the way through this book, but so far I think it is a great read. Every youth worker, who works with volunteers, needs to read this book and apply the principles.


As you can see, I spent a lot of time this year catching up on youth ministry books that I had not read. Expect to see some 2009 releases in the 2010 "best of" list, as I am sure I'll get them read by then.

What youth ministry books would you add to this list? (or what books should I add to my 2010 reading list?)


Other posts in this series:
Best of '09 - Music
Best of '09 - Youth Ministry Books
Best of '09 - Non-Ministry Books
Best of '09 - Websites used
Best of '09 - Blog posts
Best of '09 - Web Apps
Best of '09 - Ministry Moments
Best of '09 - Random Favorites

Monday, November 30, 2009

Budgeting & Saving Money - 2 YM Today articles

A lot of ministries are either in the process of putting together their budgets for next year or they are in the process of tweaking the budget that got turned down by the finance committee. If you find yourself in one of those two places, I hope you will be able to benefit from some information I wrote earlier this year.

The great folks at YMToday took my youth ministry budgeting series and turned the information into two separate articles. If you would like to read the original series, just click on the link and read each blog post in the series. Or you can read the articles, which are broken down into budgeting and saving money.

Saving the Ministry Money

Creating a Budget

After reading the articles, I would like to hear what you think. What have you done to budget for the upcoming year? Is it dramatically different this year due to the economy? How have you saved money?

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Learned from Twitter: week ending Oct. 17, 2009

(multiple week edition)

Below are some tweets, from the last few weeks, that have caught my attention.


1. nickarnold (Nick Arnold) released a free ebook on connecting with students apart from the four walls at your church. You should check it out if you have not already. (I did add some insight/thoughts to the book, but don't let that stop you from looking at it)

free eBook full of ideas for youth leaders and volunteers to develop relationships with students, would love an RT :) http://bit.ly/J8qpk
2. YMX (Youth Ministry Exchange) asked for some help for an exchange student. (Don't know if they still need it, but if you can help - get a hold of them or let me know and I'll contact them)
HELP! Exchange student arrived with exactly 5 shirts! Have a size M guys t-shirt (maybe from a past event) he could have? @ for info
3.
lovesmesomeyou (Andrew Marin) let us know that his book is available on Kindle. That's awesome. Oh, and you should check it out.
RT @likewise_books Love Is an Orientation: Elevating the Conversation with the Gay Community, is now available on Kindle! http://ow.ly/rZId
4. outsideallday (Andy Brazelton) linked to a free online version of Group magazine. You need to take advantage of this and go learn (ie. click the link...).
Miss the last issue of Group Magazine? Thanks to @crd55 and @zafdaddy you can check it out for free online: http://budurl.com/groupmag
5. pastorbuhro (Brad Buhro) wants to add to the number of meals that Pizza Hut will donate. I don't know how long this lasts, but it wouldn't hurt to try and help.
RT @pizzahut:We will donate 4 meals to World Hunger Relief 4 each person who RTs this: http://ow.ly/qWn8 #pizzahut (More: http://ow.ly/r3Cy)
6.
MarkMatlock (Mark Matlock) asks a good question. Do you have any thoughts?
The question many in their 20's (and 30's) are asking: How do I become an adult? http://tinyurl.com/yd3dogq What do you suggest?
7.
nywc (National Youth Worker's Convention) is coming to Cincinnati the end of this month. They want to know if there is anything weird to do there - someone has to have an idea. I'd love to hear them (and I'll pass them on).
We're looking for weird things to do in Cincy. Got ideas? Share your link!



What did you learn from Twitter over the last few weeks?

Thursday, October 08, 2009

Free ebook: Tear Down the Wall of the Youth Room

Nick Arnold, from ministryallies.com, has just released an ebook on connecting with students outside of the "church walls."

Here is what Nick has this to say about the ebook:

Looking for a resource filled with creative ideas to build relationships with students? This is a free resource from Ministry Allies full of relational ministry ideas, including hanging out with students, working on projects together, going to cheer on other students together, and a ton of other great ideas.

You can get the eb00k by clicking on the link. Did I mention it's FREE and full of great ideas.


(I had the privilege of being able to contribute a few ideas and comments to the ebook, along with a handful of other youth ministry minded people)

Thursday, September 24, 2009

2 Small Group Series Released - Elijah & Trusting God

I'm pretty excited about these 2 small groups. They are the first "stand-alone" small groups/lesson/curriculum material that I've written that's been published in any form other than being printed from my computer. Plus, I love the fact that they have great looking covers (its a shame they are only downloadable).

If you have used these lessons, I would love to hear what you thought.


I wrote a 4 week series on Elijah and its now available for download from Simply Youth Ministry. Follow this link: Elijah Small Group Series to get more information and to download.

Lessons include:

  • Week 1 - He Was Confident in God (1 Kings 18:16-39)
  • Week 2 - He Battled Fear (1 Kings 19:1-8)
  • Week 3 - He Battled Loneliness (1 Kings 19:9-14)
  • Week 4 - He Was a Lifelong Servant (2 Kings 2:1-11)




I also wrote a 3 week series on Trusting God and its also now available for download from Simply Youth Ministry. Follow this link: Trusting God Small Group Series to get more information and to download.

Lessons include:
  • Week 1: With Your Past (1 John 4:10)
  • Week 2: In the Present (Ephesians 4:22-24)
  • Week 3: With Your Future (2 Corinthians 5:6-10)

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Book Review: 99 Thoughts for Youth Workers by Josh Griffin


There are two things you need to be aware of before you read 99 Thoughts on Youth Ministry. First, the title is a lie, because this little book is filled with 113 nuggets of youth ministry knowledge, not 99. Second, as you read through the pages you might notice that Griffin seems to be writing to a very specific audience, even more specific than say the average youth worker. In fact, based on this section from the description I would say he's writing with his ministry team and atmosphere in mind: "Over the past couple of years Josh has been journaling his youth ministry learnings in his Moleskine and on his blog. The good, the bad and the ugly - this is a collection of those thoughts."

I think the fact that Griffin is currently "in the trenches," and writing about what he knows, gives this book a little extra boost of character and authenticity. 99 Thoughts is more than a random collection of ramblings, it is a categorized peek into the youth ministry thoughts of a youth worker who passionately strives to serve students and help other youth workers be more effective. You will find thoughts in four areas: vision & leadership, programs & people, small groups & events, and everyday ministry. Within these sections, each thought is short and to the point, making the book as a whole short and to the point.

99 Thoughts is a great youth worker stocking stuffer (or if you feel uncomfortable stuffing a youth worker's stocking, you can just slide it under the door). Anyone currently working in youth ministry can benefit from reading this book. The rookie youth worker can learn from Griffin's experience, and possibly avoid a mistake or two of her own. And since you can read this book while eating lunch it is not intimidating to a youth worker who already feels overwhelmed with responsibilities. Veteran youth workers can also glean from these pages, as each thought will serve as a reminder or encouragement.

I highly recommend getting a copy of this book for every member of your youth ministry team. You can either encourage them to read the whole thing on their own or use it as part of your team meetings (discussing one section at a time). Regardless of how you use it, I believe your ministry will benefit from the 113 thoughts found within these pages.

My advice (rating) – buy more than one and give out copies (5 out of 5)

Saturday, September 05, 2009

Learned from Twitter: week ending September 5, 2009

I took last week off from posting these updates, but this week's edition is jam packed with great information and resources. Enjoy :)



1. snavenel (Len Evans) shared a link that youth ministers need to read - the newest Youth Leader Only from Interlinc.

Savy Youth Ministry: Work Smarter Not Harder http://bit.ly/11PX8N by @interlinc
2. Psych_USA (Psych) shared a great picture from an upcoming episode. Looks hilarious.
RT @psychwrites: http://twitpic.com/flb0c -From L to R: Jaleel White, Kenan Thompson, Dule Hill, Demord Dann. THIS EPISODE IS AMAZING.
3.
gavoweb (Gavin Richardson) shared a link to an article on how to turn your blog ramblings into a published book. And one about putting your youth newsletter on Twitter.
Blog to Book-12 Keys to Posting for Publishing http://ff.im/-7jBhe
How to make a Twitter Youth Group Newsletter http://ff.im/-7suNF
4. saraeden (Sara Eden Williams) reminds us that some chances are worth taking in youth ministry. (Especially if you really want to go to the amusement park) :)
70% chance of rain but we're still going to the amusement park. If I were I mom I'd probably say no. But I'm a youthworker and we're crazy.
5. Writepop (Writepop) thinks we all should know these great opening lines from great novels. I must not pay attention to the first line, because I did not know many of them.
Great list! 100 of the best first lines from novels http://u.nu/78m43 #writing #books
And he wants to inform us that laptops have been "around" for a long time, since 1937?
Is this the first appearance of a laptop in fiction, all the way back in 1937? - http://u.nu/3am43 #scifi #comics
6. SYMConference (Simply Youth Ministry Conference) is getting relationally ready for the upcoming conference in Chicago. If you haven't heard of this conference yet, you need to check it out.
lots of reconnection this week with a whole bunch of #symc volunteers who've become like family to us...I seriously love these people!
7.
radarradio (Under the Radar) let us know about Amazon's free download. It only lasts until tomorrow, so hurry!
Here's link to the FREE DOWNLOAD (1 song your choice) on Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/ktvssj



What did you learn from Twitter this week?

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Book Review: Called to Worship by Vernon Whaley

(This review is for anyone, but might be especially helpful for a minister who works within an area of "worship." The lessons you will gain from this book would be a great small group study or as part of a lesson series on worship. You might even consider using this book as a study material for members on the worship team - whatever that looks like in your congregation.)

Called to Worship is not like other books on worship that you have read. Vernon Whaley has taken a look at what worship looks like from Genesis to Revelation. The reader is taken on a journey through the Scriptures exploring the good, bad and ugly sides of worship (of God and anything else). Reading through these pages is equal to taking a college class on the history of worship. You will read about the beauty of true worship and the destructive nature of false worship.

I enjoyed the layout of the book: a progressive journey from Creation to Eternity. Along with the wisdom (and humor) packed inside each page, the reader will find an unbiased look at worship within the Old and New Testaments. You will glean new information on old stories - stories you thought you knew well. This information will add new angles to your application and interpretation of familiar Biblical stories. Each chapter ends by looking at principles that can applied to your life, which would make a great lesson outline (and reinforcement of lessons you should implement into your own personal life).

As a youth minister, I find great potential in Called to Worship to become a go-to resource when I teach on worship. I will recommend this book to anyone looking for a book on worship; whether an introduction or scholarly study.


My advice (rating) – go out and buy it (4 out of 5)

Friday, August 28, 2009

Book Review: Speaking to Teenagers by Doug Fields and Duffy Robbins

Speaking in front of children is scary, even though they are fairly forgiving. Speaking in front of adults is nerve-racking, especially if most of them are older than you. But, speaking in front of teenagers is worse. It is like swimming with sharks, while you are covered with blood and have pieces of meat attached to your feet. At least that is how some people feel about the idea of speaking to teens. But thanks to Doug Fields and Duffy Robbins (and their book "Speaking to Teenagers: How to think about, create, and deliver effective messages") you do not have to feel this way any longer.

Fields and Robbins combine their many years of experience with a large collection of research to provide a valuable resource to any adult wanting to communicate effectively with teens. This book is filled with humor, graphs, pictures of bridges, insight, real-life experience, and tips. Though the book flows from start to finish, it is possible to find the chapter dealing with an area of speaking where you need help and find the assistance you need to improve.

The first section covers the thinking part of the message preparation. This includes some great information on what needs to go into an effective message (like how to build the bridge from you to the students you want to reach). Although this step in message preparation might seem optional - Fields and Robbins build a convincing argument to its importance. The second section focuses on how to create a message that STICKs. Here you'll learn the importance of Study, Thinking, Illustrating, Constructing, and Keeping focused. Finally, the last three chapters discuss how to deliver an effective message (everything from your vocal pitch and hand gestures to the set-up of the room in which you will be speaking).

This book is a must-read for anyone who speaks to teens. You will do yourself, and the students to whom you speak, a huge favor by reading and implementing the wisdom found in these pages.


My advice (rating) – go out and buy it (4 out of 5)

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Learned from Twitter: week ending August 22, 2009

Gained a few more twitter gems this week. Just had to share these ones with you. Enjoy.


1. snavenel (Len Evans) shared a great link that churches need to look at.

We Love Our Youth Worker http://www.weloveouryouthwo... 7 promises churches make to ensure they properly care for their youth worker
2. pattigibbons (Patti Gibbons) will bring a smile to your face (if you're a youth worker) with this quote from VBS.
Comment from VBS ldr after lesson on sin: "What's not fun about a room full of pre-K & K kids and a pooping snake?"
3.
giveawaylist (Big List of Giveaways) posted a giveaway that could be very useful (if you won) for some great foll0w-up material for your ministry.
New giveaway listed - check it out! : 250 5X7" Custom Greeting Cards http://bit.ly/10c0VW
4.
snavenel (Len Evans) suggests all youth workers (especially those who teach) read this free e-book.
Josh Hunt is giving way a free e-book Good Questions Have Groups Talking http://www.joshhunt.com/goo... great tool 4 Youth & SS teachers!
5.
FlowerInTheRain (Janelle Painter) offers a great piece of advice. Read and take to heart.
Slow down. From what we know, Jesus never said, "I'm sorry, I can't help you. I need to be in Jerusalem by sundown." Pace your life.
6.
AdamLehman (Adam Lehman) shared a great moment from his ministry - a "thank you" from a student. These are the things that keep a youth worker going for months.
Got my first "thank-you-for-what-youre-doing" text from a student: "Thanks for getting people together to play xbox. It was lots of fun."


What did you learn from Twitter this week?

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Book Review: The Jesus Book by Stephen Elkins

(This review is for youth workers with children or for those who work with the children's ministry. This book would make a great addition to the little kid classrooms, especially as a resource for the teachers to use when talking about Jesus.)

The Jesus Book by Stephen Elkins is a combination Bible concordance, Bible dictionary and theology primer. But when you see all of the colorful, fun illustrations throughout the book, you know it must be a book for kids. There is also a 30 song CD with over an hour of music - all about Jesus. Inside the book is packed with some great beginner information about Jesus for young children: who Jesus is, what Jesus did, what Jesus taught, when it happened, where it happened, why it happened and how it happened.

I really enjoyed the simplicity of most of the book, it does a good job at sharing complex themes in simple, kid-friendly terms. Since it is a book about Jesus, it is appropriate that the first section discusses a few of the major descriptions of Jesus: Promised One, Son of God, Savior, Word, and friend. Kids will also learn about some of the great things Jesus did and taught. Beyond these basics, the sections on when and where are superb additions. Before looking at some of the "when," the kids are shown a four-page timeline of events surrounding Jesus. And before the "where" section, the kids are shown a map of Israel and a map of Jerusalem. These maps will help any child better understand the geography of Jesus' life and ministry.

The last two sections are the "why" and "how." The "why" section answers a few basic questions about Jesus' life. But it is the "how" section I thought was a stretch. The section is entitled "how it happened," but it is really four brief pages on present events, not events of Jesus' life. Taking this criticism aside, the only other problem I have with The Jesus Book is the way it handles explaining salvation to kids. A few places (He taught about baptism and How do we receive eternal life?) merely mention that salvation is received through a simple prayer. I believe the Bible teaches there is more to salvation and I believe baptism is part of that process, not an outward sign.

The Jesus Book is a very good introduction for children into the complex and life-changing world of Jesus Christ.


My advice (rating) – go out and buy it (4 out of 5)

Thursday, August 06, 2009

Book Review: Simply Christian by N.T. Wright

In Simply Christian, N.T. Wright sets out to help us understand why Christianity makes sense. In all honesty, I did not need to read this book to understand why Christianity makes sense, because I already thought it did. So, as I read, I tried to read it from a new perspective - as someone who was looking for answers to some of life's greatest questions. And I think I found some really good answers within these pages.

As I read through the book, I was pleased to discover that Wright is not trying to belittle any reader. He writes with passion and clarity, but never with arrogance. In the beginning of the book, Wrights talks about this echo of a voice we hear. He then spends the remainder of the book helping the reader discover who the voice belongs to: God. Our longing for justice, beauty and relationships are all indicators that we want the same things God wants - and Christianity is the one logical explanation for answering these longings.

Unless you are N.T. Wright (and if you are, thanks for reading this review), you will find yourself questioning and arguing with some of the contents of Simply Christian. As you are disagreeing, you will be challenged to dig into the Scriptures for more evidence, because Wright does not just offer his own ideas - he uses Scripture to support what is written. Whether you are using this book for your own personal growth or for helping a friend understand Christianity better, you will want to keep this in mind: "Faith can't be forced, but unfaith can be challenged."

I highly recommend Simply Christian to anyone looking to deepen their faith in God. Because when you close the last page of this book, you will have a deeper understanding of Christianity and why it makes sense.


My advice (rating) – buy more than one and give out copies (5 out of 5)

Friday, July 31, 2009

Book Review: Read and Share Toddler Bible

(This review is for anyone with little kids at home or someone who works with the children's ministry at church. You might want to look into this Bible as a good resource for having in the nursery or for gifts to parents of toddlers.)

Colorful illustrations, interactive activities and an animated DVD are all a part of the new Read and Share Toddler Bible. This Bible is designed with the toddler in mind. Each Bible story is short and includes three things: an easy-to-understand retelling of the story, colorful illustrations and an activity for parents to do with their child(ren). As a parent, one other feature I really found helpful was the Scripture references at the beginning of each story. This feature will allow parents to read the story and discover more details on their own.

The Read and Share Toddler Bible is a good first Bible for your little ones. Since there are forty Bible stories covered, your toddler will only hit some of the more well-known stories. The bright colors and easy-to-read stories will draw your toddler in, creating a great opportunity to teach about God's Word. As your child grows, you might want to allow them to read the stories on their own.

The DVD that comes with the Bible contains fourteen short animated stories. These are stories that are included in the Bible, though not every Bible story has an animated version. The videos and fun to watch and can be used to help your toddler follow along in the Bible.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Book Review: Blue Like Play Dough by Tricia Goyer (blog tour)

(This post is a guest book review, authored by my wife. This review is for youth worker's wives and all of you female youth workers who are also mothers, or might be one day. You might even want to consider recommending this book to your women's ministry department or as possible small group material.)


As a mom, we all have moments when we feel overwhelmed and under qualified. During those times, there is a tendency to get caught in the situation, rather than seeing the bigger picture. And in our lack of seeing the bigger picture, we often miss what God intends for motherhood to be: a way unlike any other than he can shape and form us to be more like Jesus. It is the shaping that Tricia Goyer continues to come back to as she walks us through her experiences as a mom.

Through the pages of Blue Like Play Dough, I saw how Tricia's honesty, transparency, and maturity helped me to see more of what God has already done in my life. Things I had never identified as being part of the shaping process stirred in my heart as I read Tricia's experiences of being shaped herself. Her challenge is clear. God does not have big plans for you on the other side of your children's high school graduation, once you have time for him to shape you. No, it is in the midst of the spit up, homework, sleepovers, and sleepless nights that he is already molding us. This book has helped me to catch those nudges, those moments where my Father is transforming me in and through this adventure of being a mom.


Go here to purchase Blue Like Play Dough.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

An Open Letter to Youth Minister Search Teams

(Though this particular letter is written specifically for youth minister search teams, most of the content will work for any search team.)

Dear Search Team or Committee

I have applied to your open youth minister position and would like to pass on some information from my perspective of the search. Before I begin by giving you some advice to improve your communication with those of us who have applied for your position; allow me to share these thoughts. First off, thank you for being a part of the group who will determine the next minister to the students. I understand you have a big decision ahead of you and it should not be taken lightly. I appreciate all of the extra time, effort and energy you have put into the process (not to mention all of the meetings). One last thing you should know about me - I am praying for you as much as you are praying for me. I pray God gives you wisdom, strength and the ability to discern the right choice.

As a search team moving along in the search process, I would suggest you keep these few things in mind. (In no particular order) You will notice that throughout this list I will use the word "appreciate" often; because none of these ideas are requirements for you, they are just things I would appreciate.


1. Use Technology.
You do not have to waste a stamp. Since we are living in an age of technology, with email and text messaging being more prevalent than snail mail, you do not have to send me a letter. You can send me an email letting me know you are not pursuing me any longer. This is especially true if all of our communication has been done via email.

2. Communicate, communicate, communicate.
At the beginning of the process, I understand it might take months for you to make any sort of decision. I do not expect a weekly email letting me know what number I am on your list of potential youth workers, but I would appreciate notification when the process moves forward. As we move farther down the process, I would appreciate knowing what is going on. As the list of potential youth ministers is narrowed, and I'm still on it, I would expect to be informed on the progress. Even if the search team has not met for a month, I would appreciate knowing.

If I end up being the "chosen" youth minister, I am learning a lot about the way the leadership in the church works. If there is a pattern of poor communication during the search process, I will be more likely to decline your offer to be youth minister. Why would I willingly walk into a situation where communication is not a strength for the leadership? On the other hand, when a search team communicates well during the search process, I will willingly join that team.

3. Honesty is a must!
For me, this is a huge issue. In fact, this might be the biggest issue I consider. And as much as you are deciding if I am the right person for this position, I am deciding if you are the right congregation for me. I do not want to work with a group of people who are not completely honest. When it comes to the search process, do not lie to me. If you are interviewing two other people, tell me. If you are worried that I will not work well with the senior minister, let me know. The worst thing you can do is make me feel that I am the person for the job while I am visiting, when you know that I am not.

There is no reason to drag me along, just to keep me as a "back-up" if the real #1 choice doesn't work out. If you want to pursue one candidate at a time, then be honest and let me know that at the beginning of the process. I will not be offended if you want to be specific and strategic in your search, even if it means I am not going through the first round of the interview process. I would rather know from the beginning what the search teams intentions are, then to believe a lie about where I stand. Being honest is one of those qualities Christians are supposed to possess, so it needs to be a quality the search team possesses as well.

4. Silence conveys a message.
I have found that when a youth ministry search team is silent for an extended period of time, it usually is not a good sign. Silence from your team conveys one main thing - I (as a youth ministry candidate) am no longer being considered for the position. I understand this is not always the case, but it is the conclusion I will come to when I do not hear anything from a search team for an extended period of time. Silence also conveys the message that your team is not willing to honestly tell me what you think about my ability to minister to the students in your congregation.

As I am patiently waiting to hear back from your committee, I would appreciate an occasional (at the least) update. Even if the search team is hesitant to have a difficult discussion with one of the candidates that is no reason to avoid communication. Some conversations will be difficult, but you should have known that when you signed up to be on the team - even in the church the hiring process is difficult. You need to know that I am not going to talk/think negatively about you if you phone and tell me I am not the right person for the position. I will respect your team and appreciate the manner in which you handled the situation.

If you are silent after I have already interviewed, I believe one of two things is happening: you are calling another candidate back and you are hoping if that candidate says "no" then I'll still be willing to come for another interview. Or you do not know how to tell me that I am not the right candidate and hope I'll find another position before you have to tell me.

5. Respect my time.
This comment goes along with the silence one - as you are going through your process remember that the candidates are waiting to hear back from you. Just because you only want to meet once a month does not make it appropriate to only contact the applicants every other time you meet. Do not drag out the process for any candidate longer than necessary - as soon as you know a candidate is not going to be the right person for the ministry the best thing you can do is let them know.

We, the candidates, are not just waiting to hear back about a job. We are waiting to hear back about the city we will live in, the church our family will attend, and the people we will become friends with. Taking on a new youth ministry position entails all of our life and family. So, as you are considering your decision, please keep this in mind as you keep us abreast of the situation. And please try to meet as a group more than once a month.


Thank you for reading this letter. I hope it helps you have a better understanding of what the youth minister candidates are feeling and thinking during this search process. I pray God gives you wisdom and discernment in your search and you find the right minister for the students.

Sincerely,

A youth minister candidate



ps. I would like to suggest two books for you to read, if you have time. The first book is "Inside The Mind Of Youth Pastors" by Mark Riddle, published by Youth Specialties. The second book is "Sustainable Youth Ministry" by Mark DeVries, published by InterVarsity Press. Both of these books contain great insight into a better understanding what youth ministry is all about and how a congregation can help it succeed.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Learned from Twitter: week ending July 25, 2009

Today is a special day for me - its my little girl's 1st birthday! So, to help you celebrate my little girl's birthday, I thought I'd share some highlights from Twitter this past week. Oh, who am I kidding, I was going to share them anyway. :)

1. YS_Scoop (Youth Specialties) shared the link to Tic Long's new blog. If you have not checked it out, you need to. Tic is a great advocate of the youth worker and have great thoughts - plus he's just a good guy.

"Keep up with Tic and what is next in his life at http://ticlong.wordpress.com/"

2. snavenel (Len Evans) shared some news about a new stage of his life. Check out his blog to find out more about Len and see how you can be praying for him in this transition.
"Shared today, that I'm no longer the youth pastor at the church. Have applied to work with the http://nnym.com Gathering prayer supporters"

3. timschmoyer (Tim Schmoyer) shared two links for resources youth workers might be able to take advantage of in their ministries. Check out these links and see how they can benefit your ministry.
"FREE City cars time lapse video download in HD. Might be good as a title background for a YG video: http://bit.ly/2DoEc"
"RT @slickdeals: 20 5x7 Photo Prints $0.99 http://bit.ly/1ZHnf // Perfect for all your camp and missions trip pictures!"

4. StudentMinistry (John from Lifeway Student Ministry) linked to an article on helping your students after you get back from camp. If you took kids to camp, or know some who went, you'll want to read the article.
"Help Your Students Keep Their Camp Committments" now on LifeWay.com/Students - http://bit.ly/gQ7du

5.
MikeFoster (Mike Foster) shared this little bit of wisdom (and truth). I agree wholeheartedly with his statement.
"true leaders take ownership of their contribution to a bad event."

6.
rainnwilson (Rainn Wilson: aka Dwight) offered a little bit of hope for those Office fans who are tired of watching "summer television." The Office is back to work!
"Office table read today. Like first day of school. What to wear!? Make sure to ask for spoilers cause I will def. be revealing all!(um, no)"

7. theofficenbc (The Office on NBC) provided a little bit more information for Office fans - the first episode is entitled "Gossip" (oh, the possibilities).
"Scoop! Season 6 of "The Office" officially begins today, with a table read of Episode 1, entitled "Gossip." Welcome back everyone!"



What did you learn from Twitter this week?