The Way

Sharing Grace

2012-01-23T09:37:00.002-06:00

I aptly titled this entry as sharing grace rather than giving grace. If I am giving grace, it is incredibly limited. My storehouse of grace is basically non-existent. I am not a grace-filled person. On the contrary, I am pretty much a judgmental person when left to my own devices. I mean, why do people do such stupid things at times? Why would they choose to . . . (you fill in the blank) when it is obvious that making that decision will end in pain and despair.

Yep, I am judgmental. I know how things ought to be done. I have read Scripture, watched people choose destruction over life, so all you have to do is ask me and I will tell you that you are stupid. I will even look down my nose at you while I do it. I just really am that good.

And . . . I am a sinner who has been miraculously saved by God's grace. I have no grace of my own to give, but I am learning to share His grace. Slowly, painfully, I am learning. I am learning that what He desires of me is to bring Him glory in all things. That includes my thoughts, emotions, actions, words, and well, all things. Why at 48 am I just now beginning to understand what He longs for of me. It really is just about my surrender to Him and in that, all things are included. I cannot give grace but I can sure share it, but only because He has allowed me to be a recipient of His grace. What a gift! What a giver of grace He is! God, would you please continue to do the miraculous and allow me to be a part of sharing Your grace with all people in all things.

GOSPEL by Propaganda

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

This spoken word artist does a good job of communicating in a language that just might communicate to some you know who need the GOSPEL shared in another way.

The Gospel Project

2012-01-17T14:07:00.002-06:00

I am pretty excited about this project that we are working on that I think will help Christ-followers see Christ for Who He is rather than reduce Him to our limited view of Him.

It Was 20 Years Ago Today . . . Again

2012-01-11T15:03:00.000-06:00

Milestones. You know those events that come along that force you to "put a stake in the ground", "set up a marker", and cause you to remember. I can be a little nostalgic at times and especially when it comes to family and specifically our daughters. I tear up just thinking about them, their accomplishments, and how quickly time passes by in life.

Today, "Janjuary" 11th, Morgan turns 20 years old. She came into the world a little after 3am on a cold, January morning in Nashville, Tennessee. It was a pretty remarkable entry for me. When Sondra went into labor with Shelbi I was in FL at camp (see that story here), so all the lead up to birth was new to me even though it was my 2nd time to witness birth.

Morgan made a great entrance and has been entering everywhere since pretty much the same way. She has a quiet demeanor, but is full of life and is hysterical. She is accused many of times of being just like me, and in many ways she is, but there are numerous ways she is her own person. I remember the night she prayed to receive Christ. I remember the times she has made some hard decisions to "go against the crowd" when the crowd was engaging in some borderline or "over the line" behavior. She is friends with everyone. She is quick to be completely honest with those she loves and cares for deeply. She is a leader who began to blossom in her middle school years.

She is scared to death of birds and bugs but is slowly moving to just moderately immobilized at the sight of either of these creatures. She is prone to injury and strep although strep is becoming more of a thing of the past. She is a good student. She loves her sorority sisters and they love her. She has a heart for God and for people. You see her here serving with kids in Honduras. She loves gifts! And she is an incredible gift to our family and to all her know her!

Morgan, I love you. Thanks for all the joy you bring to our family. Thank you for teaching your dad much about life. Thanks for loving Christ and people.

One other thing . . . when you are lying on a hospital bed after surgery and you ask me, "Am I going to die." I will answer again, "Yes sugar. You are going to die, but today is not your day." I am just that kind of comforting father. Love you.

New Year Update

2012-01-04T12:13:00.000-06:00

Shelbi & Alcatraz

We had a great Christmas break as a family. It was big fun to celebrate Christmas with Evelyn too since this was her "first real Christmas" as she put it. On New Year's Eve. Shelbi and I flew to San Francisco to spend a few days together before I started teaching a class at Golden Gate Seminary. We did all of the touristy stuff and really just enjoyed hanging out together. How quickly she has become such an incredible young woman. Actually we are blessed with two daughters who are simply amazing. I have included a couple of pics of our time out here in CA.

May God bless you as you head into 2012. We are expecting God to do some great things in and through us. Not because He has to but we as a family are positioning ourselves to be all that He wants us to be.

Palo Alto 5k

One of the other fun things we did was run a 5k on Jan. 1 in Palo Alto. Here is a pic from that too.

So . . . What are You Doing New Year's Eve?

2011-12-29T18:05:00.003-06:00

Saw this and thought it was pretty good. You will recognize Zooey Deschanel (Elf and New Girl) but you may not recognize that guy. Remember Angels in the Outfield? That is the one and only Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Enjoy.

Merry Christmas from the Turners

2011-12-25T00:01:00.000-06:00

Evelyn, Shelbi, Paul, Morgan, Sondra

HappyRama-Hana-Kwanz-Mas! (you know me & political correctness)

Here is aquick rundown on the Turner household –

Shelbi – she turned 21 in July &somehow I am still responsible for all of her financial needs. She has had agreat year. She worked FUGE Camps at Glorieta this summer and now has onesemester left of nursing school at Union University. She and Mark are stilldating 2 yrs later. He graduated this month from Union.

Morgan – is 19 and loving Union. She isa social work major, involved in student government, Chi Omega, and about a hundredother things. She is doing great grade wise as well even in her crazy busyness.This summer she worked at Winshape Camp sfor Girls (Chick-fil-a) and had agreat time.

Sondra - just had her first anniversaryat McGavock High School as a secretary to one of the principals there. Sheloves working with the students. She is involved in the praise team at churchand is truly an amazing woman.

Paul – still at LifeWay and teaching acollege-aged class at church. Went to India in January on missions, had bothknees scoped in the Spring and is back running.

Evelyn – what? Who is Evelyn? Only thecoolest Chinese teenager in the world. She is a 10^th gradeinternational student at DCA and plans on finishing her high school career here.We love having her and she is pretty convinced that she lives in a home ofgiants.

Love andMerry Christmas from The Turners -

Paul,Sondra, Shelbi, Morgan & Evelyn

PS - If you did not get a photo card from us in the mail, just print this out.

Christmas in Kansas City . . . almost

2011-12-22T12:25:00.000-06:00

It is true that I am a sentimental goober at times. For those of you who have grown up in Kansas City, you know how cool the lights at the Plaza are. While we will not be here on Christmas day, we were able to spend some time at the Country Club Plaza one night this week. It does a KC boy's heart good.

Crazy Turner Christmas Greetings

2011-12-21T15:11:00.003-06:00

Merry Crazy Turner Christmas!

NOT What Handel Had in Mind

2011-12-15T20:28:00.000-06:00

I am thinking you might enjoy this one. Just for grins.

My Advent Conspiracy Experience . . . so far

2011-12-12T10:58:00.000-06:00

Poly Rouse, our pastor, has been leading us through a series of sermons loosely based on David Platt's, Radical Together book. I sort of pride myself in being frugal, not wanting for much, and basically considering myself better than I actually am. While confession is good for the soul and bad for the reputation, I feel compelled to share a experience that God and I wrestled through recently.

I, in no way, am saying that electronics are evil or of the devil. I have greatly enjoyed my iPhone, TV, microwave, and on and on. I do have a tendency to "want" more technological devices and this past summer was able to use an iPad that work provided. It made travel a little easier, helped me stay a little more current with work, and let's face it, I liked the cool factor of it. "Oh, you have an iPad. Those things are so cool." And, I was quick to get caught up in the coolness of it. In August, the iPad gig was up for me. Work needed it back. I lamented it for awhile and I guess honestly, still do.

Black Friday was a critical day in the wrestling match for me. Apple puts their "stuff on sale" for the only time of the year. I had received a nice honorarium check for a series of talks I did and proudly announced to Sondra, "that iPad2 is mine now." I went online, secured an iPad2 in my basket, but could not press complete sale. For about 4 hours on Black Friday I had it in my basket, but could not press complete sale. Not because my motives were pure, but because I could not get an "easyness" about spending that money on something that was useful, but not necessary for me to live.

Sunday, November 27 began the new sermon series. As I walked into the worship center at church, set up on the stage was a set for the mission that our church supports in Guatemala. (Los Conchas I believe is what it is called or something very similar to that.) I knew immediately where that money was to go. No one had to tell me, it was confirmed in my spirit. As Poly talked about our work with those in Los Conchas, I felt myself getting more and more irritated and frustrated. Evidently the wrestling that started on Black Friday was not over yet. Sondra finished singing in the praise team, came and sat down my me and I looked at her, pointed to the area of the stage with the Guatemala set and said to her, "Stupid Advent Conspiracy!" How submissive I am! The focus of Advent Conspiracy is to give so that others might have. I get it, I just did not want to. All that to say, I wrote the check and placed it in the offering plate yesterday. And, I did it with a fairly pure heart. I am getting there. I know it is the right thing to do. I know that people will eat and many will hear the gospel. I am praying that lives will be transformed, beginning with mine.

God, break my heart for what breaks yours.

The Envy of My Running Friends

2011-12-06T10:12:00.001-06:00

If you are a runner, then you know that most drivers do not really pay in attention to us and if they do, they are normally impatient. Agreed though is that some runners are obnoxious but the majority of us are not when it comes to running in traffic. You will love this short video of an older woman who gives an impatient driver what he deserves and she does something most of us would love to do.

Merry Christmas to all my running friends.

Another Christmas Miracle or uhh, Disaster

2011-12-03T20:20:00.001-06:00

Well, they meant well but it just did not go as planned. And evidently the one who posted this video on youtube has now taken it down so I cannot share it any more.

Evidently one disaster was not enough. They did not want to share it anymore.

so I share this from last year - The Digital Nativity

Get in the Christmas Spirit

2011-11-30T20:51:00.001-06:00

This is too good not to pass along to my family and friends -

You will thank me later.

Come Ye Thankful People, Come

2011-11-24T06:57:00.000-06:00

There are many things that I am thankful for . . .
Christ's amazing love
Family - my wife, Sondra; our daughters, Shelbi, Morgan, and our newest, Evelyn; my dad; my mother-in-law; my brother and sister-in-law; Sondra's sister and brother-in-law; many nieces, nephews and greats as well.
Friends
A Christ-centered church
A job/ministry that I love

This old, hymn is a little old school but sums it up well for me

Come, ye thankful people, come, raise the song of harvest home;
All is safely gathered in, ere the winter storms begin.
God our Maker doth provide for our wants to be supplied;
Come to God’s own temple, come, raise the song of harvest home.

All the world is God’s own field, fruit unto His praise to yield;
Wheat and tares together sown unto joy or sorrow grown.
First the blade and then the ear, then the full corn shall appear;
Lord of harvest, grant that we wholesome grain and pure may be.

For the Lord our God shall come, and shall take His harvest home;
From His field shall in that day all offenses purge away,
Giving angels charge at last in the fire the tares to cast;
But the fruitful ears to store in His garner evermore.

Even so, Lord, quickly come, bring Thy final harvest home;
Gather Thou Thy people in, free from sorrow, free from sin,
There, forever purified, in Thy garner to abide;
Come, with all Thine angels come, raise the glorious harvest home.

Happy Thanksgiving . . . and, Count Your Blessings.

Why Do We Underestimate What Kids Can Do?

2011-11-22T09:42:00.000-06:00

Recently I have been reading Robert Epstein's Teen 2.0 and wish I could have stayed for his symposium after the YS ATL mtg this past weekend. His whole premise is that we need to help kids reach core competencies and stop prolonging adolescence. He says much in the book that I agree with and some that I do not but overall I think he is on to something. Here is a video of a 13-year-old who I think help proves Epstein's point. You will enjoy this kid.

Touching Nurse Commercial

2011-11-21T08:55:00.001-06:00

I remember three years ago when Shelbi said to us that she had been praying for awhile and really felt like God was calling her to the nursing profession. We were a little surprised since she had never ever intimated that to us but were very supportive. She has great skills, talents, and the temperament to help others so it definitely fits the way God has wired her. A couple of days ago, I saw this commercial, It definitely reminded me of Shelbi. She is currently doing a clinical at St. Jude's.

Oh My, Joe Pa

2011-11-10T08:08:00.001-06:00

What a sad turn of events in the last few days with the Penn State University child molestation scandal. What seemingly was a clean, above the board program, was, in fact, one of the most vile. In no way am I trying to grandstand and take advantage of an opportunity to rail against someone else, but it is an opportunity for me to learn from so that I and others do not repeat the same mistake.

I am a Jo Pa fan, or have been for many years. I liked the black and white, no frills approach to football. I liked the way that he coached hard nosed football. I liked that he coached from the box, when a few years back, he got hit on the sideline and broke his leg. There are so many things that I liked about Joe Pa. But there is one thing that I cannot stand about him now that it has come out; he values football, appearance, and fame above young boys, their families, players, etc. What he did legally was a good start, but when it was evident that the University "legal" system was not going to act properly on the intelligence they received, he did nothing further. And, because he valued football above everything else, many boys and their families were forever scarred. It could have been handled differently. It should have been handled differently. All the good he has done for his players in helping them develop character, teamwork, unity, etc. cannot be negated nor should it be. But, . . . all of the pain and suffering endured by young boys and their families by Mr. Predator Sandusky cannot be negated either. Much of it could have been averted . . . and Jo Pa did nothing further than what was his "legal" obligation.

It is a very sad day and time. But, . . . it has been many sad days and years for the true victims of Mr. Sandusky's predatory ways. May God be merciful to those who are the true victims. May God restore their lives and may He show them true purpose that comes through Him.

Jo Pa, evidently you are an incredible coach.I have admired you for years for your coaching prowess. Unfortunately, there are more important things in life than football. Thanks for reminding me that nothing is more important or more valuable than real, live people. It is for people that Christ came and died and rose again to redeem us back to Himself. I am praying for the victims and their families. I am praying for you. I am praying for Mr. Sandusky. I am praying for myself.

Be It Resolved . . .

2011-11-03T08:28:00.001-05:00

The Courageous movie that has been out since September 30 is one of the best movies I have seen if not the best ever on men being courageous men of God. I have been fortunate to see it three or four times with my work at LifeWay. Our church, Hermitage Hills Baptist, has been spending the last month focusing on addressing the issues associated with men being courageous men of God. Last night was a powerful time of men signing the resolution promising to honor God, our wives, and families. It was pretty awesome.

I have to admit that it was a little uncomfortable for me though. I found myself struggling with the whole idea of "do I sign in front of a group" or "do I show up and just not sign it." Let me explain. A number of years ago, I met with a small group of men and we made a very similar commitment. I was much younger, our girls were much younger, and my wife is still younger. (Notice how I just honored her there. Big smile.) Trust me, I have made many mistakes along the way as a husband, a dad and a Christ-follower, but I am committed already. I am not trying to sound better than I am, I get that I am a sinner saved by grace and left to my own devices, "I will return as a dog returns to his vomit." I never want to bring shame on the name of Christ, His bride the church, my wife or our daughters. I really just thought that since I have already committed to these things, why would I need to do it again.

I know why. And my pride was trying to tell me otherwise. I needed to sign in front of my church family as a strong form of accountability. Not so others would think, "what a great guy for making this commitment", but "what a weak guy that we need to continually hold accountable in his walk with Christ." I needed to sign the resolution in front of them not because I am strong, but because I am very weak and I need love; encouragement; a swift kick in the butt at times; and, people who will not be afraid to walk with me in strong and weak times in my life.

I am thankful for a ministry like Sherwood Films who is willing to address the hard issues in a medium that will communicate the truth and I am thankful for a church who values people over programs. I am praying for all of us men who signed last night. I am praying for and thankful for Joey Hickman who is willing to hold me accountable. I am thankful for a God who loves me just the way I am but is not willing to allow me to stay the way that I am.

Does God Really Hate Sin?

2011-10-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

I know that sounds like a stupid question to most of you who read this and you are quick to say, "Of course God hates sin." I am quick to agree with that He does hate sin but too many times I am quick to justify that what I might be thinking or wanting to do is "not really all that bad". It is called justifying my thoughts and actions in order to please me rather than honoring God.

The last few months I have been praying, asking, pleading with God to remind me just how much He hates sin. In fact my prayer has been, "God, help me to see sin as You see sin." It has been refreshing, painful, frustrating, energizing, etc. I wish I could say that I have a full understanding of God and sin and that sinful thoughts and actions are no longer a part of my life, but I cannot say that honestly yet. I know that my heart breaks when I watch others who love Him become deceived by their own desires and choose sin over His best for their lives. I know my heart breaks when I am confronted with my own sin. I long to honor Him in everything. It is my desire to do so because of my love for Him, not so that I can somehow get Him to love me more. He already loves me as much as He can. I cannot do anything to to effect how He loves me or anyone else. I can take that pressure off of the table.

Today I heard of another one who has chosen to chase sin and its pleasure who has been incredibly effective in ministry. I do not say anything in judgment and pray that this individual will allow God to reveal to Him again how much He hates sin, but is so in love with the sinner. I am thankful that God accepts us the way that we are and that He loves us way too much to allow us to stay that way.

Sin cost Him His very Son's life. God help me to better understand how much You hate sin, and allow me to be the first to come alongside of those I know who need You to remind them how much You love them.

October 26, 1985

2011-10-26T15:03:00.003-05:00

Since the World Series game has been postponed for this evening (Weds., 10/26) due to inclement weather in St. Louis, I thought I would do a short World Series '85 blog entry. It was on this day in 1985, in Game 6 of the Series, that most Cardinal fans would love to forget, Denkinger made his famous bad call. Now, being a Royals fan, I know that I benefited from it but what goes overlooked is what happened in the 4th inning of this very same game.

Jorta is called safe - Denkinger

Granted, the game was marked by controversy. In the fourth inning of the scoreless game, the Royals' Frank White appeared to have stolen second base, but was called out. The following batter, Pat Sheridan, hit a single to right field. Through 7 innings, Danny Cox and Charlie Liebrandt pitched a couple of gems until Liebrandt gave up a hit to Brian Harper that scored Terry Pendleton in the top of the 8th. Cards fans were excited until the blown call in the bottom of the 9th on the squibber by Jorge Orta where Denkinger called him safe. The Royals ended up scoring two runs in the 9th and taking game 6 to even the series. That next night, Sunday, October 27, 1985 the Royals won their one and only (to date) World Series 11-0. It was a complete melt-down by the Cards. It probably did not help matters that Denkinger was behind the plate calling balls and strikes and Andujar came completely unglued arguing balls and strike calls. He would later stick his hand in a fan and get suspended 10 games in the '86 season for charging Denkinger.

I am not a Cardinals hater. I am a long-suffering Royals fan. Go Rangers in the 2011 World Series!

Parenting Notes - Festival of Marriage - Ridgecrest

2011-10-21T20:33:00.001-05:00

Here are the notes from our breakout that we promised to put online for you.

ParentingTeenagers

Facilitated by Sondra & Paul Turner

Biblicalfoundation of parenting

4 “Listen, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. 5 Lovethe Lord your God with all yourheart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 Thesewords that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. 7 Repeatthem to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when youwalk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Bindthem as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. 9 Writethem on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. – Deuteronomy6:4-9

Our primaryrole as parents is to teach our kids to love the Lord your God withall their heart, soul and strength. These have to be in our heart in order topass on to our kids.

Whatdoes it profit if we teach our kids to love the world and lose their own soul?

Even thebest parents don’t always get everything right –

⁴¹ Every year His parents traveled to Jerusalem for thePassover Festival. ⁴² When He was 12 years old, they went up according tothe custom of the festival. ⁴³ After those days were over, as they were returning,the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but His parents did not know it. ⁴⁴ Assuming He wasin the traveling party, they went a day’s journey. Then they began looking forHim among their relatives and friends. ⁴⁵ When they didnot find Him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him. ⁴⁶ After threedays, they found Him in the temple complex sitting among the teachers,listening to them and asking them questions. ⁴⁷ And all thosewho heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers. ⁴⁸ When Hisparents saw Him, they were astonished, and His mother said to Him, “Son, whyhave You treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searchingfor You.” ⁴⁹ “Why were you searching for Me?” He asked them. “Didn’t you know that I must be involved in My Father’sinterests?” ⁵⁰ But they did not understand what He said to them. - Luke 2:41-50

When the Pharisees heard that He hadsilenced the Sadducees, they came together in the same place. ³⁵ And one of them, an expert in thelaw, asked a question to test Him: ³⁶ “Teacher,which commandment in the law is the greatest?” ³⁷ Hesaid to him, “You shall love the Lord your God withall your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. ³⁸ This isthe greatest and most important commandment. ³⁹ Thesecond is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. ⁴⁰ All theLaw and the Prophets depend on these twocommandments.” – Matthew 22:35-40

Practical Steps toGetting Most of It Right

1. Startwhere you are – evaluate where you are in the greatest commandment

2. Committo finding three – five people who will pray for you and for your kids. (parents,grandparents, people in your church, people whom you trust, etc.)

3. Committo having one spiritual conversation with your kids at least once a week.

4. Committo having one – two meals/week as a family

5. Showlove and respect for your spouse/the child’s mother or father

6. Donot abdicate your role to a paid professional (youth minister, etc.)

7. Bean advocate for other parents and students

8. Stayin the Word

9. Praywith and for your kids

10. Donot be their friend, be their parent. All major research projects conclude thatparents are the #1 influencer of their kids, whether positive or negative.

11. Rememberthat you are a steward and not an owner of your kids. They are God’s on loan toyou.

12. Learnthe dance of when to be up close and when to back off.

13. Knowthat girls find their greatest security in a good relationship with theirfather, boys need their fathers just as much to show them how to me a man ofGod. Mothers are just amazing. No man will ever match how incredibly gifted Godhas made each of you.

14. Neverstop praying for your kids. Never! Some will choose to run, some will choose tostay and not really be there, and some will choose to be who God created themto be. Our role is to create the environment for them to see and learn how tolove the Lord their God.

Some Helpful Resources

www.christianitytoday.com/parenting

www.covenanteyes.com

www.cypu.org

www.family.org

www.heartconnex.org

www.teenswithproblems.com

www.theparentlink.com

www.troubledwith.com

www.lifeway.com

www.realworldparents.com

This Will Make You Smile

2011-10-05T10:47:00.002-05:00

I love people that love to live life regardless of how old they are or what circumstances they may find themselves. This video has been around for over 3 years but it a true delight. Enjoy

Choosing to Be . . .

2011-10-04T18:56:00.002-05:00

Point Loma taken w/ iPhone

This past weekend I was in San Diego teaching, attending, & exhibiting at YS-National Youth Worker's Conference. I always enjoy being around youth leaders and especially those who are not in my normal circle of friends in ministry. I love being around those in our denominational tribe, but I am so encouraged to be around those leaders from other denominations. They love God and students and their families. So very encouraging.

I have found myself the last few days not really being on my game relationally. I have been quick to be short with others. Little things have set me off. I am by nature an introvert and most of my last week has been spent with many people. Don't get me wrong, I like being around people but I need a little time each day to just be by myself. All that to say. I have been choosing to be . . . nicer. I needed to choose that intentionally this past week. It has been more work than I want it to be but it is necessary, because no one deserves to be treated unfairly or for me to ever be mean to others.

I have many choices to make each day. You do too. I am choosing to be more like Christ because I do not come by that naturally. Actually my choice is to choose to surrender. I do not do that well either.

Pray for Morgan if you will. She broke her finger playing intramural football at college the other day. As she would do it, it is not a normal break and will require surgery and a couple of screws. She is scheduled for surgery on Weds am at 730. Thanks for praying.

Posturing - Hmmm.

2011-09-20T09:28:00.000-05:00

I am prone to a mid-back that is not easy to adjust. I am also prone to a neck that seems to get out of whack at some very inopportune times. This summer my regular chiropractor (witch doctor as I affectionately call him) was out of town while I was in dire need of some adjusting. I was able to make it to another fine chiropractor who helped me tremendously, but it was not the same. He did a good job, but he did not know my posture only because I was a new patient to him. It is best when everything is in its rightful place because my posture tends to correct itself when things are where they belong. We will go to great lengths to get in the right posture because we think that pain will go away when we have the right posture. Barney Fife is a good example in this pic and in the show he was always posturing to get himself to look better than he actually was though. He was always funny, but always trying to be someone he was not.

There is another kind of posturing that is a whole different story. I find it interesting, mesmerizing, unbelievable, crazy, and somewhat sad when I notice that I am intentionally trying to put myself in situations to make myself look better for the sake of trying to "position" myself to look better to someone that I actually am. I have been guilty of that too many times in the past.

I find myself watching a few others right now who appear to posturing for a position. This honestly is not an attempt to judge those who may be posturing and really serves to show me what I look like when I am intentionally posturing for a certain role, position, etc. It is not pretty. I know all too well because I am a repeat offender. It is one thing to show others what you are capable of doing using your God-given talents/giftings, and it is another altogether to oversell yourself, speak up when one should be listening, and demanding service rather than serving. It really is not a fine line between the two. Both are intentional, but one is about what God wants to do with/in/through you rather than what one things he ought to do whether God has been consulted or not.

Yesterday's passage in bible study was Luke 923-26 If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, take up my cross daily and follow me. I don't like that verse or that passage because it demands that I surrender. I cannot surrender and posture at the same time. I cannot surrender and play out my own agenda. It is impossible for me to stay the way that I am and go with God. It is a daily struggle for me. I guess that is why Christ said I had to take up his cross DAILY. He knows me and loves me enough to not allow me to stay the way that I am. I long for His posturing in my life. It is the only posture that really matters.

What Am I Missing?

2011-09-16T09:32:00.000-05:00

I have the opportunity to come along side many people who are in ministry in local churches, hear their stories, listen, encourage, and learn from them. I honestly cannot believe at times that God allows me to do what I get to do. Most of you know that I work for a very large Christian publisher and have for almost 19 years. It is a very good place to work. It is a ministry funded by business and I get to work alongside some of the greatest people I know. No kidding. They are great folks. They push me to be better at what we get to do collectively.

This week we hosted about 250 youth leaders at our place and we offered them opportunities to hear from people like Pete Wilson, Kelly Minter, Jess & Thom Rainer.We even mixed in The Skit Guys and my friend Jake Gulledge along with The Chris White Band. It was a great "platform". So many of those in attendance are wonderful people. They love Christ, they love students and they love ministry.So many of those who attended shared with me and with others how much they appreciate the conference that we hosted. They were encouraged, challenged, loved on and even led to confess shortcomings and sins in their life in a safe environment.

Why is is that ministers have to come away from their churches for these things to occur? Do not get me wrong, I am not bashing the church. It is the bride of Christ. I understand that. I do think however that the church has in many ways become a place for perfect people who think that to belong to our church (club) you have to act a certain way, believe certain things and choose not to do some very bad things. Notice I said very bad things because all of the people in all churches sin and fall short of the glory of God.

Am I helping people fall in love with the person of Christ or the teachings of Christ? No wonder people leave the church if all we busy ourselves with is telling people how to do all the right things without ever telling and showing them how to fall in love with a person, who is the Christ.

I am wrestling with this. I am guilty of this too many times. I am determined to place my life in the middle of doing all I can to help others fall in love with the person of Jesus Christ. I am starting with me. I think that is what I have been missing.

Holding Onto What? (again)

2011-09-06T19:41:00.001-05:00

I posted this a year ago but it is one that I need to be reminded of and one lesson that I have yet to learn.

Saw this video again from Francis Chan and the way I too many times hold on to stuff that hinders me from being all that Christ has created me to be. Is it really right that I live life in balance? Or, is the Christian life designed to be an "all out" kind of life? I know the answer. I struggle with the action.

Never Assume

2011-08-26T10:05:00.000-05:00

I am one of those people who stay away from definitive words like "never", "always", "all people", "every time", etc. but I am learning the importance of never assuming.

Evelyn, the international student from China who is living in our home this school year, is reminding me the importance of never assuming. I take many things for granted, especially related to my faith. I just assume that most people have a baseline of knowing who Jesus is; the importance of Scripture; etc., all things Christianese. She reminds me every day that not "every one" has a general understanding of who Jesus is. She has reminded me how much I use terminology that is very Christianly but not very culturally relevant.

We are blessed to have her in our home. She is truly delightful and very smart. The language barrier in communication audibly is getting so much better in our home, but English terms that I think are pretty easy and simple, are really very difficult. Earlier this week, Evelyn and I were working on some Chemistry terms and trying to memorize the Ion chart. Those that know me well this is pretty scary to start with, but English is hard; and it is my native language!

I am learning to slow down, think through what I say before saying anything, and using words that are more simple and concrete. I have a lot to learn. How is it that at almost 48 I am having to learn my own native language?

Same goes for my Christianese. It does not communicate if the one hearing does not understand. I have much to learn.

The 8 "Nations" of Innovation

2011-08-22T12:55:00.002-05:00

A co-worker shared this with our team recently. I found this to be very good. It is not a real short watch, but a very good one.

Moving Days

2011-08-19T19:52:00.001-05:00

This has been a pretty busy week. Sunday started with church and then I did a training session for our student leaders at Hermitage Hills. Big fun to invest in training the leaders at the church we are members. I am usually out training/encouraging others but lots of fun to do that at home.

Joyce, world's best mother in law, left on Tuesday and went to visit her sister, Nola and her husband in Atlanta. What a delight to have her with us for a week. On Wednesday, we loaded up a borrowed Yukon with Morgan's stuff and moved her back to Union. She has a nice room and three wonderful roommates. We are thankful for the influences in her life and the way she influences others too.

Thursday was videotaping day at work. Four of us were in the studio working on some of our student ministry messages and shooting a bunch of student ministry tips. Hard work for sure but also a lot of fun. We are trying to be very strategic in the way we are doing training.

Today was another moving day. I drove to Jackson with Shelbi's stuff and helped her get sort of moved in for her final year of college. Crazy to think that as well. The time goes so quickly.

Lots of moving going on. Sondra, Evelyn, and I are the only ones not moving right now. We kind of like home. Speaking of Evelyn, she is just a real delight to have in our home. She seems to be settling in to school, making our house her home, and even tonight is with a friend from school at the Wilson County Fair. That should be a pretty eye opening experience for her.

Too Busy/Lazy to Blog?

2011-08-12T20:31:00.001-05:00

It has been an entire month since I last posted. I have no real good excuse for not posting. Just have not done it. It has been a busy month and one of change for us, so here goes.

Our biggest news is Evelyn. Evelyn is an international student studying at DCA this school year. She is 16, very bright, and her English is getting better every day. She arrived a week ago Wednesday and has fit right in. Her first week consisted of Shelbi and Morgan coming home from a long summer of camp and a short week of fun at friends. She was immersed in western culture with getting a phone, international calling cards, attending a wedding I officiated on Sunday; church (a whole new experience for her) and school starting on Tuesday. We have ordered a computer for her, she is conversing with her family and friends via the computer and all together fitting in well. We have eaten chinese food twice in the last 7 days. We are fitting in too.

Shelbi and Morgan had a great summer with each working at different camps. It is great to have them home and Shelbi went to visit Mark, her beau, and they have arrived at our house now. All three of them (Mark, Shelbi and Morgan) head back to Union mid-to-late next week.

Sondra has been back at school for a month and doing great. She loves her job and I love her. Works great. I am pretty sure she loves me too. Sondra's mom is with us this week too! What a delight to have her around the house. She continues to do pretty well with some aches and pains but overall she is in very good health.

My work has been good and I have not traveled much the last few weeks which is good. I am in FL tonight, will lead a training session tomorrow and be back home tomorrow night. I am also helping in our college aged class at church and love being with those students. They are teaching me a lot. What a blessing to get to do what I get to do.

Accountable

2011-07-09T08:27:00.000-05:00

I find myself on the road alot lately and with much travel comes much tiredness. Hotel beds sort of run the range from "slab of stone" to so soft that "my nose and feet end up in the same area". It makes for a sore neck, back, hips and blood shot eyes at times because sleep can come in "fits and starts."

One of the great roles I get to play (and use my gifts) is to encourage others in ministry whether they be full-time, part-time, volunteer, "tag, you're it" ministers, to FUGE staffers, and a myriad of others in ministry. They are people who love Christ, love students and their families, and they also find themselves stretched very thin. They work hard, provide for their families, get little to no earthly recognition, but love what they get to do in the Kingdom. They also find themselves, like all of us, very vulnerable at times. It is in our weakness that we are made strong, if we will allow Him to work through us.

You and I cannot live like Christ on our own. We know it, yet many times we try it on our own. I try it too many times on my own. I am asking you to help hold me accountable. I want to be guilty of living this life through His strength - Col. 1:29. I am praying the same thing for you.

Exciting Times

2011-07-07T16:14:00.000-05:00

Summer has been very good and very busy. I have been at FUGE camps in MO, AZ, NM, FL so far and will be in AL and SC before the summer is over. I also am doing some training in MS this weekend.

Sondra and I had a great time at Glorieta, NM and got to hang out with Shelbi some. Sondra and Shelbi shopped alot on Shelbi's day off while I took pictures of wildfires and slept on park benches while they shopped. We did visit the square in Santa Fe and all the sites there that include the Loretto Church with the mysterious spiral staircase and ate some wonderful food.

Sondra and I returned home for a day and a half and then headed out to Orange Beach, AL for some vacation time. We enjoyed our stay but it was very different without the girls. The weather was good, there was another wildfire close by that authorities got under control, and we enjoyed our time together. On the back side of that trip we headed to Rome, GA and visited with Morgan who is working Winshape Camps this summer. It was good to be with her and know that she is having a great summer.

I am able to run again and got 35 min. in today which is the most at one time I have ventured out. The knees are both doing good. I am pleased. I am in FL some this week and the ground is very flat here which makes the running much easier on the knees.

Sondra is enjoying a couple of weeks more off from work and heads back to work on the 18th. Our big news is that we will be hosting an international student for this school year beginning in August. We are getting a female student from China and I will share her name and more info. once it becomes completely official this next week. We are very excited. She is a sophomore in high school and will be attending DCA where we have been heavily involved the last few years.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T20:20:00.002-05:00

We have had a wonderful day today in Santa Fe. We started out by eating at Harry's and then doing all things on the Plaza in Santa Fe. Only wish Morgan could have been with us. We make our way to her in a couple of weeks.

Here is an earlier post that I did for my dad and with the exception of me being a little older, this still rings true.
You can read it here.

5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 30

2011-06-10T19:00:00.000-05:00

Interesting pattern of numbers in the title. I always disliked those problems in math where you had to figure out the pattern. I was and still am terrible at those things. You look at the pattern and figure out the next set of numbers. I am terrible at those problems.

So what do these numbers have in common?
5 - a couple of weeks ago my dr. let me start running 5 min. easing into it
8 - I got to move to 8 min/day running
10 - I got to move to 10 min/day running
12 - you picking up the pattern yet?
15 - two days in a row of running 15 continuous min w/ no pain (yesterday and today)

I have traveled quite a bit this week. I flew to KC on Tuesday after work, spent the night with my dad and headed to Bolivar for FUGE. Our first week of camp at my alma mater and it went great. Wonderful team lead by Brady. Was great to be back on campus after 25 years and I got to stay with my mother-in-law. We had a great time together and got a little painting done along with a little sink drain repair.

We laughed together and even cried a little together this morning. We watched some old video of Shelbi as a baby (she will be 21 next month) and as a surprise my mom was on the video as well as Bernard, my father-in-law. We lost both of them in the past 3.5 years and it was the first time I had seen either of them on video since their passing. Very touching and tough at the same time, but a real blessing.

I am back in KC with my dad, hanging out this weekend and then on to further travels.

30 - you thought I had forgotten that number probably. Not so. I am attending a 30th high school reunion tomorrow night. How in the world has it already been 30 years since I graduated high school? Crazy.

Where Did the Time Go?

2011-05-31T20:53:00.000-05:00

I have been remiss in posting. I am embarrassed, ashamed . . . and now I am over it. We have been busy around here. The girls finished their semester of college and are now in Rome, GA working camp (Morgan at Winshape) and in Glorieta, NM (Shelbi working FUGE). It was nice to have them home for about 2.5 hours. (slight exaggeration)

My dad came to visit last week and we enjoyed him being here. He and the cicadas hit about the same time and both made a lot of noise. We welcomed Dad, not so much the cicadas. If you are unfamiliar with cicadas, google it and we have the 13 year kind hanging around. Loud, everywhere, and creepy. There are millions of these things. They show up, breed and die. Turn on your weed eater and they swarm. Morgan is not a fan.

I have been traveling to FL, LA, and various other locales. None of them exotic although I did get to spend a little time on the beach last week in FL. The knees are recovering well. I have become a bike rider, elliptical beast and stationary bike riding dude too. I am to begin running some in the next couple of days. Starting slow and building up. Hope to make it around the block in one continuous run by the end of September ;-).

Sondra has about two weeks left of school and then she gets about 5 weeks off. She is planning on meeting me in NM in a couple of weeks to hang out some with Shelbi and to eat wonderful New Mexican food.

Sondra's mom is the real hero of the family right now. She has been volunteering in the clean up process in Joplin, MO. The tornado that blew through there a week ago Sunday was devastating. Joyce is a bright spot to many in that area who have suffered so much.

Work is good. Play is good. God is always good. I will do better in posting to this blog.

The Turtle Man

2011-05-16T08:24:00.002-05:00

I am not even sure how to comment on this. Be sure to watch it all the way through though. Gives one a new appreciation for the many uses of chain saws, as well as, a new spokesperson for Gatorade.

Happy 26th Wedding Anniversary

2011-05-13T13:03:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, May 11th marked our 26th wedding anniversary. I know that the gift for 25 years is silver and since my hair turned that color about 10 years ago, I figured I was good for that. Not really sure what the gift is for the 26th wedding anniversary but I presented Sondra with a Kindle a week or so earlier. She loves to read you know, and I think she will adopt the technology well. Actually, she already is.

It has been an incredible 26 years and yesterday we headed out to Carrabba's for dinner and The Cheesecake Factory for dessert. It was awesome. Many of you have asked how we have made it so long. I was reminded of this clear, concise answer via video. This is the secret to our happy marriage - it's all about the fries.

Happy Early Mother's Day

2011-05-03T20:13:00.001-05:00

Love The Skit Guys and here is one for Mother's Day

Tuscaloosa, AL Tornado

2011-04-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

This is one of the most incredible tornadoes I have ever seen. This happened earlier today. Pray for the many people and families effected by storms today across the Southeast.

Carrie Underwood Sings How Great Thou Art

2011-04-23T10:53:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite hymns of all time and Carrie Underwood along with Vince Gill are just pretty incredible here.

Knee Repair, Boston, & Broken Escalators

2011-04-18T20:13:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Dr. Pagnani, a host of healthcare professionals, my beautiful wife, Sondra and to the Great Physician, I am doing well after my second knee surgery in a little over 6 weeks. I seem to have two repaired knees that with a little rehab and strengthening, should be able to carry this body around for many years to come.

Today I wore my 2010 Boston Marathon shirt into the clinic for surgery, mostly to just be braggadocious but also in support of Ron Kramer who is a friend who organizes much of the transportation that supports the race, and for two friends who ran today, Charlie and Herb. They both ran qualifying races today at Boston. Incredible!

I am also including a video called Broken Escalator that depicts two, then three people who get stuck in not being able to see or do anything from a different perspective. May you and I never be guilty of doing that in our lives.

Take a Left, then a Right

2011-04-11T13:40:00.000-05:00

So this odyssey began the best I can remember, Sunday night, December 19th, 2010. I found myself on the beautiful Country Club Plaza with my wife, daughters Shelbi and Morgan, and our cousin, Jenny. You can see the four of them on that night in the picture. We were walking along, taking in the sights and smells of Christmas and enjoying ourselves. As we traversed the beautiful sidewalk terrain, I stepped onto a grate and felt both of my feet begin to slide out from under me. Being the cool 47-year-old that I am, I quickly caught myself without getting close to hitting the ground, but spoke these words, "Wow Sondra, I think that is going to hurt later." And . . . I was correct. I have never been a prophet or the son of a prophet, but I spoke futuristic truth that night. A little over a month later, I knew that my knees were not quite right, and then it became very evident that the left for sure had seen better days. A MRI later confirmed a tear in the cartilage and the right one hurt, but was not near as bad.

Rehabbing the left knee has gone wonderfully and in the meantime, I have rehabbed the right knee, hoping to avoid further surgery, but have resigned myself to knowing that fixing the right one is going to need some assistance from Dr. Pagnani. All that to say, that a MRI has confirmed a tear in the cartilage of the right knee much like the one I had in the left knee. Looks like Pagnani is going to get that new sports car this year after all as a reward for repairing both of my knees. I would ask you to pray for Dr. Pagnani. I like him alot. I think he is a great dr. and he has been asking some spiritual questions. Those kind of questions are asked when the Holy Spirit is at work.

I have surgery scheduled for Monday, 4/18 at 830a. And then rehab begins again. I am ready. Ready to not hurt, and ready to see what God has in store. I was thinking I was only going to have to take a left, but now it is obvious this journey includes at least a right too.

Very Good April Fool's Joke

2011-04-07T07:23:00.000-05:00

Confession

2011-04-06T17:11:00.001-05:00

My friend, Michael DiMarco, (I guess he is okay with me claiming him a friend) is one of those guys that I enjoy talking life and ministry with once a month or so. I actually do not know him all that well. Well, that is not true. I think I know him pretty well, because in many ways we are much alike. (Sorry Michael.) He recently wrote a blog on confession, or actually when we hold on to our sin. I did not ask his permission, so I will not copy it here, but I will send you to his blog so you can read it straight from him. Click here and you will see what I mean.

Thanks for the friendship Michael and thanks for your thoughts.

March Madness, Sadness, Gladness

2011-03-30T08:20:00.000-05:00

I pride myself in being so adept at all things college basketball. I really do not believe that about myself, but I continue to deceive myself year after year, especially during March Madness. I chose my final four teams through careful study, prayer, and casting lots (none of those are true). I go by gut and sometimes override my team loyalties with thinking too hard. If you know me, you know that Dook is my least favorite team followed closely by KU. I think Coach K is a coaching genius and would love it if he coached anywhere else but the two aforementioned teams. All that to say, I had Dook as the national champion. I know. Crazy and against all my true team loyalties, those being UNC and Mizzou. I was not sad to see Arizona thrash Dook the other night by 14. It busted my bracket but it did my heart good. I had Kansas, Pitt and OSU as my other final four teams. All wrong! I can pick 'em.

I was a little sad that UNC lost to UK. I had UNC losing that round but not to UK. I am not a UK hater but I am not a Calipari fan at all. I think he and that other joker at Louisville (must be a Kentucky thing) are really good coaches - they must be since both of them are the only coaches to take three different teams to the final four - but they both seem so shady and make good mobsters (I do not totally believe this however).

Gladness comes in the form of VCU - good for them, and especially Butler. To get there last year and to repeat to the final four is a strong statement. I really like Brad Stevens. Great demeanor; never seems to get rattled; and talks of morals and values. Butler is my clear favorite in my heart. Also, props to Calhoun who has overcome alot of adversity, much of which he brought on himself regarding sanctions, but his personal loss of a good friend from college days and a member of his family.

Most of my gladness comes in this form however, - thankful for time spent with our whole family this past weekend. God has so blessed us as a family. Even the guy Shelbi hangs around with is a great, young man. He and I had a conversation about shopping while we waited in the car listening to the ballgame while all the girls shopped. He says, "Mr. Turner, I just do not get the shopping thing. I agreed that I did not understand it either but that I understood that the ladies like to do it, so we get it enough to make sure they get to do it." I thought it was good advice. Kind of like many issues in life. I do not always get it, but I understand enough not to go fighting battles that are not mine or are not even battles in the first place.

Another gladness - the knee is recovering well. So very thankful and blessed. Able to ride the bike, elliptical, and do all kinds of stretching and exercises. It is getting stronger and this time off of running has allowed me to be much more balanced in my workouts. I needed that. Makes me glad.

I Love Creativity

2011-03-23T14:20:00.000-05:00

If you know me well, you know that I am not very creative. But, I can find others who are and that is what you will see in this Men's ministry conference being offered by Northwood Church.

Northwood Men's Conference from Northwood Church on Vimeo.

Alaska Adventures

2011-03-22T10:35:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday I left early in the am and headed towards Anchorage via ATL and MSP. I met my brother, James, in MSP and we loaded up for Anchorage. We got in before dark, saw lots of snow, mountains, and icy waters as we landed. We were both pretty tired but stayed up, grabbed some dinner, said Wow! alot at the scenery and hit the hay about 9p AST.

Wednesday, we were up early but it does not get daylight until about 830a so we exercised, destroyed USA Today and the local Anchorage paper and then headed towards Seward. Beautiful drive of about 3 hours through the Turnagain Arm area and lots of snow covered mountains. We saw a few moose on the drive down and seals and bald eagles in Seward. Good conversation with one of the locals telling us about the fishing travails
in the area. Halibut was just in season and expensive! On the ride back we stopped at an animal refuge and saw bison, bears, bear cubs, reindeer, moose and various other animals. Good times!

Thursday morning we woke to snow that all totaled probably 4.5-5 inches. Enough to shut down most southern cities for a couple of days but just a "dusting" as they called in Anchorage. It did not slow them down a bit. We watched alot of NCAA March Madness both Thursday and Friday. We got out and did a little trip to Wasilla, saw the Iditarod starting point, checked out Sarah Palin's house, drove to a ski resort for the view of Mt. McKinley and Friday night began the Youth Evangelism Conference and my buddy Jeff Wallace did a great job of sharing the Word. I taught sessions on Saturday and so enjoyed being with the youth leaders from Alaska. Great people who love God and love students. Sunday consisted of church in the am, more basketball, some rest and packing for the return trip home.

So much fun to spend time with my brother. He is a great guy that God is obviously using to make a difference in people's life and in my life this past week. The picture above is a shot of us yesterday as we were parting ways in MSP as he headed to Kansas City and I flew towards Nashville. Great times with a great brother.

From Slave Patricius to St. Patrick

2011-03-17T11:36:00.000-05:00

So for many, St. Patrick's day is about green beer and pinching others, but the real story of Patricius is far from green beer and pinching. Today we celebrate the life and work of St. Patrick who brought the good news of the Gospel to the Emerald Isle and her people.

Who was this man Patrick, and what were his great accomplishments that so many should celebrate him more than 1500 years after he left this earth? Like St. Nicholas, whose identity has been utterly changed into that of a child's Christmas fantasy, the name of St. Patrick is now more generally associated with parades, "Kiss Me I'm Irish" buttons and green bagels than with the great work of evangelization that was his life's work. But Patrick was, as Nicholas, a real person.

Many details about Patrick are lost to us, but there is agreement on several key facts. Patrick was not Irish; he was born on the island of Britain possibly to a Roman family in about the year 387 AD. Raised in relative comfort, his name in Latin was Patricius. At the age of 16 years, he was kidnapped by a party of marauding Irish raiders, carried to Ireland, and sold into slavery. He was sent by his Irish master to tend sheep on the misty hills of Ulster. Miserable and alone, he turned increasingly to prayer. He served this solitary exile for six years until in a dream God told him to flee from his captivity. Walking a great distance to the coast, he found the ship that would take him back to his family.

The reunion with his family was only temporary. In another dream, he described hearing a call from the people of Ireland to come back to them and walk among them. Patrick understood this as God's call to missionary service to go as a Christian witness to the Irish. In answer to that call, he traveled to France where he undertook studies for the priesthood. He was eventually ordained by St. Germanus, the Bishop of Auxerre.

Pope Celestine I eventually entrusted to Patrick the mission of evangelizing the Irish, who, on their isolated island, were a pagan and warlike people having never been conquered by the legions of Rome. Fulfilling his youthful dream, Patrick, now a bishop in the company of several disciples, returned to Ireland in March of the year 433 AD. He was almost 50 years old.

Not a great deal is known of Patrick's preaching, but he and his companions were certainly fearless to approach such a fierce, unfriendly population with faith their only protection. However, one story endures. It is that of his use of the simple three-leafed Irish shamrock to illustrate to the high king at the capital at Tara the nature of the Blessed Trinity - Three Persons in One God. It is significant that the shamrock, the metaphor for God Himself, has come down through the centuries as the symbol of the Irish people.

Thomas Cahill, author of "How the Irish Saved Civilization," points out that one of the most remarkable things about St. Patrick's evangelization of Ireland is that it was peaceful. Christianity had come to many other nations in Europe at the point of a sword, only in the bloody aftermath of Roman conquest. Not so Ireland. In those other cases, the conquered nations had accepted Christianity. But in this case, Christianity had accepted Ireland. The evangelizing work of Patrick and those who helped him and came after him was completely successful.

Another of Cahill's observations is that this universal conversion fortuitously came just in time for Christian Ireland to become the repository for almost 200 years of the culture and civilization of Christian Europe, which at that very time was falling into the shadows of barbarian invasion. In due course, Christian missionaries came out of Ireland bringing back to Europe that which had lain beyond the reach of the invaders who had destroyed the Roman Empire. It is not by accident that Ireland has been called the Isle of Saints and Scholars.

From the days of St. Patrick, who died on March 17, 461, down to the present, the Irish have been steadfast in their Christian faith. As a nation, they have suffered much through the centuries. Perhaps the greatest sorrow is that so many have been forced to wander far from the island to which Patrick came to bring them spiritual life. It is not surprising then that when the sons and daughters of Ireland celebrate who they are they do so on the feast of their great spiritual benefactor.

Source: How Now Shall We Live, Chuck Colson and Nancy Pearcy and http://www.tothesource.org/3_13_2007/3_13_2007.htm

NFL, iPad2, Earthquakes & Tsunamis

2011-03-11T21:05:00.001-06:00

This has been a very surreal day in many ways today. Before you read the rest of this blog, know that I am not really trying to go on a rant, but to establish that our priorities are just messed up if you ask me.

NFL - the owners will not disclose all the financial records; want more and more of the share of revenue and want to extend the season to 18 regular season games. The players are convinced the owners are already getting more than their fair share of revenues; are convinced that 16 regular season games are more than enough. The fans spend amazing amounts of money to watch grown men chase someone with a pigskin and are getting shafted by both owners and players. Players bust up their union. Owners cry foul; fans get short end of stick again.

iPad2 - amazing piece of technology that costs the same as the iPad when it was introduced. Has more capabilities. No pre-sales. Go stand in line, spend money you do not have on a piece of technology that really is very cool. Apple does great things including convincing people that you have to own their products to be cool and that we will manipulate you so much that you will do almost anything to get our technology, because we will convince you, you have to have our stuff.

Earthquakes & Tsunamis - I do not even know what to say about these events today. The videos, pictures of cars, boats, trains, airplanes, houses, buildings, everything being shifted around by water and utterly destroyed. Nuclear sites about to melt down, entire trains disappearing and the people on them gone. Thousands of people unaccounted for and more and more aftershocks of incredible strength continue. Entire towns and villages filled with people, gone. Many Japanese lost their lives today. Many more are unaccounted for and presumed dead.

And we are sad that maybe the NFL will not play a game this year. It is a freaking game that we have allowed to become so much more than it really is. iPads and iPad2s are very cool, but none of them are saving lives in Japan right now.

My heart hurts for the Japanese; for me because I do not know how to really help; and for us as a people who see devastation and loss of life and worry more that maybe our favorite NFL team won't get a shot at a championship or that without the latest technology we will lag behind the world. I am praying that God will break my heart for the things that break His heart.

Here is a good way to get involved now - Baptist Global Response

Out of 7 Billion People, Are You Typical?

2011-03-08T13:10:00.007-06:00

Interesting look at population and demographics of the world from National Geographic. Just reiterates why we must tell the Good News.

Orlando, Surgery and Oxycodone

2011-03-06T15:37:00.000-06:00

Last week was a pretty interesting week to say the least. I started out in Orlando at the Youth Pastor's Summit that is hosted each year by Universal Studios and Jay Strack. It is a great event bringing in about 2000 youth pastors to be encouraged. This year the main stage speakers were Alex Kendrick/Michael Catt from Sherwood Pictures. They have done Flywheel, Facing the Giants, Fireproof and are releasing a new movie Courageous. We screened the movie for about 800 youth leaders and I got to be reacquainted with Michael after many years and to meet Alex. Both wonderful guys do a great media ministry out of a local church.

I visited with our friends the Keators on Tuesday evening and Clark took me to the Magic/Knicks game. Much hype around the Carmelo Anthony trade and the strength of the Knicks, but the Magic came back in the 4th quarter and beat them handily. It was so good to see the Keators. Godly people who continue to show me and others what obedience to Christ looks like in all circumstances. So thankful for their friendship and faithfulness.

I flew home on Wednesday after a morning meeting and had my knee surgery consult in the afternoon. It all went well. Thursday we were up early and Sondra took me to the surgery center. The surgery all went well. First time for general anesthesia & IV and I am pretty sure I did not say anything inappropriate while under sedation. I remember going into the OR and then waking up in recovery. They were able to repair my meniscus, clean up a little arthritis and clean up some stuff that usually goes away when you are an infant. Evidently I had been wanting to hang on to that 47 years or so. Recovery so far has been good. I have stayed off my feet for most of the past two days; icing; and keeping leg elevated. Have taken a little pain meds but stopped that on Fri am and just taking Aleve a couple times a day. Not trying to be tough, it just does not hurt very bad. That oxycodone will mess you up and I decided the sooner I got off that stuff the better.

Morgan came home yesterday and it is nice to have her here. She goes back in a couple of hours but always good to see her. I officially start rehab in the morning and am in town until Tues, 3/15 so looking forward to good recovery and resting when needed.

Happy Birthday Coach Dean Smith

2011-03-01T01:32:00.002-06:00

Many of you who know me, think that I have been a North Carolina basketball fan since I was a young boy but actually I am more a Dean Smith fan. Coach Smith has such an impact on my basketball prowess as a young boy that I read most of what he wrote and studied his system along with my school studies. Coach Smith turns 80 and his mind is not as clear as it was when he dreamed up the 4 Corners offense but I like this ESPN clip on a great coach and man. Click here.

Happy Birthday Coach!

A Piano and A Little Boy

2011-02-21T20:00:00.000-06:00

There are some commercials that come along that just speak volumes. I am a firm believer that more good comes from encouragement than criticism, although, to be honest, I am many times too quick to criticize and way to slow in encouraging. Check out this video and see if you do not leave just a little more encouraged to encourage others.

Am I Making A Difference? Are You?

2011-02-17T15:00:00.000-06:00

If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one. Mother Teresa

I do not think I used this quote from Mother Teresa just because I returned from India this past month, but it probably did influence me using it. Many of the pictures of people that are in my mind, at times excite me and others break my heart. It is so exciting to see so many in India that I had met four years prior, who have grown leaps and bounds. So many new believers who are fully engaged in ministry and in leadership. Existing believers who have grown and matured in their faith and are leading others to do the same. It was so exciting! In other areas of our work there, poverty still exists at alarming rates. So many pictures of Slumdog Millionaire type people who are great people who need a great Savior and very basically, food. While some of the work in India seems overwhelming, it is so encouraging to see God doing a great work through His people. I am honored and burdened to be a part of the work there. Honored that God allows me to be a part of what He is doing there and burdened that I am not doing more. Please know that I am going to be sharing some practical ways you can help some kids eat and get in school.

Walk out your front door. Look around your neighborhood. Are you making a difference for Christ in your neighbors' lives? I am asking God to give me His eyes to see my neighbors as He sees them. You and I live where we live on purpose. Make a difference there and begin doing it now.

On another note, MRI showed cartilage tear in the left knee with some other wear and tear in that area so surgery is scheduled for Monday, March 7th at 730a. Ready to get that taken care of and very confident in my doctor, Michael Pagnani. You can find more information about him here.

Catch Up

2011-02-15T17:28:00.000-06:00

Sondra and I had a great weekend celebrating just being at home and Valentine's Day. Shelbi and Mark came home on Friday and we rented Despicable Me which is a fun movie that we all enjoyed. On Saturday we headed to the Y for my daily bike ride and Sondra got on the treadmill. My knee is still not good so no running for me for over two weeks. That is a long time for an addicted runner for sure.

Panera is one of our favorite spots and we headed over there after the Y to just eat a bagel, drink coffee, and just sit and talk. One of my favorite times of the week and with the travel I have been doing, it was the first time in a few weeks we have had the opportunity.

Saturday during the day I kicked back and watched a bunch of college basketball games. I love the game and it was nice to watch some really good games and also I switched back and forth from many games and the Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament. What a beautiful golf course.

Saturday night was Carrabba's with my bride. It was awesome just spending time with her. I am so incredibly blessed for sure.

I head to the orthopedic dr tomorrow to get the next word on these knees of mine. The left aches most of the time and has a weird pain on the medial side of the knee. The right one just seems to feel as though there is pressure behind the knee. Who knows. I guess I will know more tomorrow. Old age? Could be. Ready to get back out on the road so we need to figure these things out.

Happy Early Valentine's Day

2011-02-11T07:25:00.001-06:00

If you know anything about comedian Tim Hawkins, you know the guy is clean and very funny. You will love this video on his take on Valentine's.

Landing on Your Feet

2011-02-09T10:10:00.000-06:00

I have recently been thinking about what it takes to land on your feet in circumstances that just seem to jump up and knock you crazy. We all know people who are facing some extremely difficult life situations - I have some good friends who are struggling with a cancer diagnosis; families struggling with relationships; unemployment; jobs that are challenging to say the least; and the list goes on and on.

To be perfectly honest, I think there are many things that hit us where we cannot land on our feet in the short-term and I am beginning to think that is ok. It is okay to grieve; it is okay to question; it is okay to feel pain and struggle; but it is also okay to be assured that "he who began a good work in you, will see it to completion." Quit trying to rush through a process that may take some time. By the same token, be careful not to lay down and wallow in a situation forever.

I saw this video and thought it pretty amazing. This guy landing on his feet is not the norm but is worth watching. He must be part cat is all I can say.

I Kneed Some Relief

2011-02-05T20:51:00.000-06:00

Okay, so this was not a banner week for me knee wise but it sure has been a good week ministry wise. I was in the office Monday-Wednesday and then Weds evening through Sat mid-day was in Chattanooga for Southeast Conclave. It is a very well done event for youth leaders across the Southeast US and is a good time to connect with youth leaders.

I led a breakout on Discipling Your Own and the thrust of the conference was to encourage youth leaders to minister and take care of their own families. I tried to make it really practical and share some highs and lows of some things we have done as a family. They tried to record the breakout but it messed up and unfortunately did not record. I spent about 45 min after the conference talking with parents and encouraging them. What a privilege and honor to share with them and hear their stories. So many are doing a great job and just need assurance to keep it up.

I am home for about a week and a half coming up and I am scheduling an appointment to have this left knee checked out and see what we need to do to get back going again. Unfortunately the right knee is showing similar, though not near as bad, symptoms as the left knee. Not what I was really looking for in having additional knee pain.Ready to get this stuff taken care of and get back out on the road. I have been riding a stationary bike everyday for at least 45 min but sure do miss being out running. It would hurt way too much to get out and run. I will not do it.

The girls have been back at Union for almost a week and the house has grown quiet again. Love those two and miss them but so thankful they are right where they need to be for college. Sondra is amazing as usual and really enjoying her job as secretary to one of the principals at McGavock High School.

Super Bowl tomorrow. I am predicting that the Steelers win by 3. Honestly though I am good either way this one goes. Would love for it to be a good game.

Seeing Clearly

2011-01-31T16:03:00.000-06:00

So, it has been awhile since I have blogged. Not a good reason other than reacclimating to this side of the world took it's sweet time and either the trips are getting harder or I am getting older. Probably the latter. Last week was filled with being in town all week! What a treat. I really like my job but I also like being at home. The girls were home all week so it was good to be able to spend some time with them. It is weird that they come home just long enough to have us get used to them being around and then they are up and gone again. I know they are looking forward to this semester and were ready to get back among their friends.

The week went pretty well. We attended a wedding Saturday night at The City Club in Nashville and it was really nice. Those of you who know me, know that weddings are not my favorite events, but this one was an exception. Our friend, Julie Burden, married Jason Crook who is fine young man to say the least. Sort of weird that she exchanged her last name of Burden for Crook, but at least he is a great guy even though his last name could be a little challenging.

Earlier in the day I participated in an event for DCA that was focused on moving the Academy into the future. Many changes are coming related to feasibility studies, possible capital campaigns and buildings, retirement of our headmaster in June 2012 and many other things. I am privileged to serve alongside so many gifted leaders at the Academy. I not only get to announce ball games there but get to be involved in setting direction for the Academy. What an honor!

Saturday morning prior to all the meetings and wedding, I was out for my normal 5-miler and experienced some pain in my left knee. Went to the dr. today and it could be a torn meniscus. We will see. Actually both of my lower legs feel pretty tired so it may be something else going on, other than age.

This week I head to Chattanooga to speak and talk to youth ministers. One of my favorite roles for sure. Looking forward to all that God has in store there. Hopefully we will miss this major winter storm that is supposed to rock most of the US this week. I have had enough of snow for awhile.

Jet Lag? Naah.

2011-01-22T03:47:00.002-06:00

What an incredible trip to India. The ministry was much work but so very rewarding. Pastor Surendra, his wife Kamala, and daughter, Sperthi are just such a real blessing to be around. They allowed us to stay in their home and it just helps seal the bond of friendship.

We flew through Dubai, UAE and it was my first time there. Quite the contrast from India in many respects. It is very much a melting pot for the eastern part of the world and of course, so much wealth and crazy big buildings. Rumor has it that the area is running out of oil, so they are living it up. Slowing down the supply of oil and jacking up prices to sustain an extravagant style of life. Can you say $4 per gallon for fuel soon?

The flight from Dubai to Atlanta was 16.5 hours. Wow, was I ready to get off that plane. I may have slept 2-3 hours so needless to say, I experienced most of the flight. Only so many movies you can watch, reading you can do but glad to land in Atlanta. Our flight was delayed an hour so we were late landing and I had about an hour to clear passport control, claim luggage, clear customs, recheck luggage and run 3 terminals down, but did make my flight to Nashville. Had to be God to help me on this one. Did all of that in 45 min and it is normally a 1.5 hour minimum. It was good to get home on time and my luggage even made it.

Tuesday was rough. Slept for a few hours, called the DCA basketball games and went to bed. Weds and Thurs were not too bad except for about a 2-3 hour span mid-day each day. Hopped a plane to FL on Friday morning and was hoping that the snow/ice that came in Thursday might knock out this weekend trip but although the roads were fairly bad, I was able to make it to the airport and the planes were on time.

It is 345a on Saturday as I write this and I am wide awake. Still a ways to go on this jet lag thing. I will get back to the central time zone eventually.

Saturday/Sunday

2011-01-16T05:18:00.002-06:00

Saturday was a very good day and the last day of ministry in the neighborhoods. It has been so good to be able to come alongside of believers and help them to realize that in such a pagan culture, God does know where they are and to encourage them to press on.

We did some shopping last night (Sat) and I was able to get the girls a punjabi each and Sondra a tunic that she had been asking for. I had hoped to find some scarves for them along with some of their friends, but the area that we were in did not have what they were wanting. Bummer.

Pastor Surrendra translating for me

Sunday has been filled with preaching twice this morning and then encouraging the leadership of the church. We met with many of the deacons and elders and the women evangelists as they call them. They are really care leaders for all of the families. Much like the deacon family ministry concept. Seems to work well with women leading since they are nurturing and tend to keep up with the members better.

We had lunch with a widow and her two young sons today. The husband/father had been a strong leader in the church and passed away. The husband's parents came in and took everything away that they had purchased for the husband since their wedding leaving the family basically destitute. That happens very often here in India and is pretty hard for me to understand.

Tonight is a big farewell ceremony/worship for us. I really want the focus to be on worship of God but they will put us in traditional Indian attire. I brought my suit from my last visit so they would not spend the money on me again to buy one.

Looking forward to heading toward home tomorrow. We leave the house early on Monday (about 730p Sunday for most of you) and head to the airport. Flying back through Dubai and have a long layover and then a 13 hour flight to ATL and then short flight home arriving Tuesday morning if all goes well.

Probably my last post for a few days. Thank you so much for praying for us.

Happy Pongal

2011-01-14T21:25:00.001-06:00

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, Pangol is a festival here in India where many things happen. People bring out their old stuff to burn in the streets (small things) and signify the old going out and making room for the new. They call it a Bogi - one of the guys with us continues to kid with some of them to bring out their old wives or husbands and look for a new one. Of course it is a joke and they like it. Who knew. They also use chalk to make these very beautiful designs on the road. I have include a pic of one to give you an idea.

I have shared with many that they can bring out their old gods, those that are not true and that I would gladly introduce them to the one true God. It provides a very good conversation starter and many have listened very intently. Pray that God will help these people see that the true God brings them true freedom and hope.

Destruction at one church

Yesterday we ministered in an area that was very oppressive. You could feel the oppression and many made us aware that we were not welcome in that area as Christians. I never felt threatened physically, but the spiritual oppression was very real. A couple of weeks ago, some locals did much damage to the church hut and some of the areas around it. Pray that God would protect these believers and that He would bring this area to Himself.

We do our last day of house visits, devotionals and direct ministry today. Tomorrow we will be involved in many different worship services among four churches and all of us speaking many times. Pray that God's Word will go out clearly.

On another matter, my friend and co-worker at LifeWay, Kevin Spratt and his family need your prayer. Kevin'sister, Erika, was killed in a car accident on Weds. She leaves a husband and two small children. She was just 25-years-old. Please pray for Kevin and his family. The memorial service is Saturday in Ky and Ohio. Thanks so much for praying for them.

Good "Trip" in India

2011-01-13T22:25:00.001-06:00

What a day yesterday (Thursday) was. I started out with some personal Bible study time and then went out for my morning run. About a mile in, I was trying to avoid some traffic, jumped up on a "sidewalk" and next thing I knew I was falling down in slow motion. I almost caught myself but eventually hit the ground. A car and motorcycle stopped and a woman came running to make sure I was ok. I was ok and got up laughing at myself. I skinned my knee a little and took a small hunk of flesh out of my left palm, but all in all, it was very minor. I usually fall once every 5 yrs or so and am hoping that covers it for a long time.

Yesterday's ministry started w/ giving a devotion out of Hebrews 12 and the great cloud of witnesses watching us in the race. I shared my running story and they all seemed to relate. We made many home visits and some of the stories of the people are just overwhelming. I visited a family I had visited the last time I was here who are the picture I envision when I think of India. The mother's name is Anathema (something close to that spelling), she is about 27 w/ three children (14, 13, 12). The oldest daughter has epilepsy and struggles so much. Monica the middle child is very bright and the young son is very bright as well and in school. This is a very poor family and the husband/dad left them almost 12 years ago. They are picture of incredible faithfulness in very difficult circumstances. This family has captured my heart. I am asking you to pray for them. I have included a picture of them so you can see who you will be praying for. They live in a very small hut and it is a very poor situation. The mother, Anathema is the small woman on the far right.

Last night I spoke again in a cottage church meeting on the role of parents in their childrens' lives and the people are so receptive. What an incredible blessing it is to be with these people. I am so encouraged by their faithfulness and convicted by their walk and how I get so caught up in stuff and miss Christ so many times. God is breaking me once again.

It is Friday am here now and I went for a run but was only able to do a mile because of many small fires in the streets. Pangol is a holiday here where they bring out last year's things and burn them in the streets welcoming new things in the coming year. It is a Hindu festival and they paint colorful pictures/designs on the ground in front of their homes. I will try to get a picture and post tomorrow.

Thanks so much for praying for this trip.

Breakfast is for Champions

2011-01-12T12:14:00.000-06:00

Seems like that used to close to the motto for Wheaties (The Breakfast of Champions) but I am beginning to think that breakfast in India is the best. I am not an egg eater for the most part and have never been much of a hard-boiled egg eater unless I am traveling internationally. In fact, I do not believe I have ever eaten a hard boiled egg in the States. I eat them here and am thankful for them. It is not fried. There is also a potato dish they serve along with either a pancake or french toast that is pretty good. The coffee is good but the cups are very small. I could drink about 10 of their cups to 2-3 of our mugs.

Widow and Orphans

Ministry went well today. I visited in many homes and spoke at a youth meeting tonight with over 400 in attendance. I am so encouraged by the level of maturity of these youth. Youth goes from about age 14-24 here in India. They face many of the same types of lures of the world and are longing to become westernized is probably the worst thing that could happen to them in many ways. I have been in the homes of many widows and fatherless the last couple of days. Because of the poverty and the absence of a husband/father, many of these families struggle even more. Not only are they hurting and grieving but financially they are destitute. They always serve biscuits or fruit and a drink to me when I visit and are so thankful that I have come. I have been turning the tables some and serving them after they have served/offered me something to eat. It catches them completely off guard, but is a small way that I can show them I am honored to be in their home.

10th Grade Class

The children who are in need of sponsorship at the New Hope School are many. It only costs $120/year to support a child's education and provide uniforms through the grade 10. I will be posting more very soon on how you can participate. Please be praying about what God might have you do to help support children so they can get a Christian education in a Hindu world.

Many of the children here do not get breakfast so to get a hard boiled egg is a blessing. I am counting my blessings everyday.

Fried Chicken, Fried Fish, Rice and Soup

2011-01-11T12:05:00.000-06:00

With the exception of breakfast, our meals consist of the things mentioned in the title. Those of you who know me well know that I am not a fried food eater and I am also one who tends to be somewhat polite. I am thankful for the food, I really am, but I am a little weary of the fried variety in our meals. Not a real complaint though.

Last night was busy with leading a community bible study on the relationship of parents to their children and job 1 for parents to their children found in Deut. 6. We had a little over a 100 crammed into a small house and it was all families. Babies, toddlers, school aged, young adults and grandparents gathered as I did my best to help them understand God's desire for parents in rearing their children. It was a good night. I left there on a scooter no less, always daunting in India, and we went to eat with a family (you know the menu) and then back to Pastor Surrendra's home. Days are long but good.

I woke this morning and watched most of the BCS Championship Game on ESPN internet. Very cool thing and congrats to all the Auburn Tiger fans - War Eagle. Got a 5-miler in, ate breakfast that is not fried thankfully, and headed to the New Hope School. Wow! over 600 students and they put on a great program. We visited every class, over 20 classes, received hundreds of cards and letters from the children that I will read and pray through the rest of the year, and gave out M&Ms. I am sure the teachers loved us for doing that and telling them they could eat them immediately.

Made many home visits encouraging families, ministering to widows and fatherless, and laughing and praying alot. In every home I am greeted with such love and care. It is very overwhelming for me to be treated as someone special. I remind them I am just like them. We laugh some, pray alot, and cry through the hard ones. Young women with children who have lost their husbands, persecuted ones, some who have been beaten, all sorts of issues. What a privilege to be able to serve alongside of them.

Tonight we did a house dedication, spoke at a Thanksgiving service and had dinner of the menu that you already know. It is late here. I am tired, but thankful for the opportunity to serve and grateful for your prayers. It is also very good that I get to Skype with Sondra, Shelbi and Morgan every day for a few minutes.

Hanna - 13th birthday

Samuel - our guy in India

I am including a pic of Samuel Raju who is a young man in India that we have supported for many years helping him get through standard school, high school and now junior college. He is 17 now. A fine young man. His sister is at the New Hope School and I got to see her today as well. Another young lady named Hanna had her 13th birthday today and it made me think of our own Morgan who turns 19 today! I took a picture with Hanna today since I could not take one with Morgan. Happy Birthday Morgan. I love you and am very thankful for you.

India Here I Am Again

2011-01-10T06:17:00.001-06:00

Wow - it has been a whirlwind since last Thursday when I boarded a plane in Nashville, headed to Atlanta for a long layover and then boarded a plane for Dubai and flew all night. 13.5 hours on a plane was pretty long if you ask me and then another 3 hour flight after a 2.5 hour layover in Dubai en route to Hyderabad India. Lots of air miles and movies in that string of flights. Watched The Social Network, Easy A, Toy Story 3, the back of my eyelids (although not very long at any given time).

I am traveling with two other men, Dick Spencer and Phil Dillingham and we are doing ministry through New Hope Evangelical Church Ministries. What a blessing it has been so far. It is good to reconnect with many that I met when I was here in January 2007. Every home we visit wants to feed us and expects us to eat something. I am sure I will gain weight on this trip. I am getting to run each day though so that will help offset some of the poundage.

I have preached, led devotions, shared the gospel many times, and prayed for many church members and neighbors. I have asked God for healings, financial help, spiritual strength, babies for couples, and a few hundred other things. The needs are great here and it is overwhelming at times but God is always faithful.

I am sharing a pic of one of the babies that I held today. No worries Sondra, I will not be bringing this one home. This little baby dressed in pink was one of the cutest "girls" that I have seen, only he is a boy. No name yet so they took some suggestions. I will speak to a group of parents tonight about being the spiritual leaders of their homes and families. Pretty excited about that since I have a strong heart for helping parents lead their children.

Thanks for praying for us.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:02:00.005-06:00

Here is a Happy New Year from all of the Turner family. May God bless you and be glorified through your life in 2011.

Merry Christmas from the Turners

2010-12-25T05:50:00.004-06:00

To all of our friends, family, in-laws and outlaws, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. As you celebrate today, we pray that God would remind you of His great love for you.

The Turners at the KC Country Club Plaza

Christmas in Kansas City

2010-12-24T08:09:00.004-06:00

Growing up in the KC area and being a sentimental goober at times, I could not help but post this video on my blog. I love KC. I guess there are just too many good memories. This is not the coolest song but for those of you who know KC, you get this song. Merry Christmas!

Nashville Airport Flashmob 12/22

2010-12-23T14:48:00.002-06:00

Good to see that the town I live in and the airport I get to about once every two weeks is getting in on the flashmob mania that seems to be sweeping the country. This happened on 12/22/10

Family Time

2010-12-22T17:45:00.001-06:00

Great niece Ava

I really enjoy my job and I really enjoy time off from my job too. Since last Weds. I have been enjoying hanging out with Sondra and the girls. I have done a little around the house and have pretty much run every day but have had a blast being with the family. We traveled to MO on Sat and enjoyed our time with my dad, my brother and his wife, Julie, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. My family is pretty much crazy which says alot about me and how I act. There is still some sadness with my mom being gone, but memories are very good. I ran quite a bit around the area that I spent as a teenager and reflected on many fun times and experiences with my mom.We also made it down to the Country Club Plaza with one of our cousins Jenny. She was a lot of fun to be around. She is a twin and I am forever getting them confused.

Niece Cassy & great nephew Lucas

Caught up with my high school friend, Donna Robinson Vaughn today and that was quite a trip. She reminded me how competitive we had been with grades and I had forgotten all about that.We talked about the goofiness of high school but also realized how blessed we were and are now. It was fun to show off my wife and girls. Donna was always one of those good, trusted friends where there were no romantic feelings so it was not awkward to meet up again after so many years. She is a great lady and it was good to catch up a little.

Morgan, Jenny, Shelbi & Morgan

We arrived at my mother in laws today and look forward to Sondra's sister and her family making it here tomorrow.

Looking forward to a continuation of a wonderful Christmas time!

Digital Story of the Nativity

2010-12-15T07:33:00.000-06:00

Lisa Whelchel of The Facts of Life fame tweeted this that she had gotten from some friends. This is really very well done. Take a look.

Latest Update

2010-12-10T19:45:00.002-06:00

The past couple of weeks have been very busy to say the least. Last week I was in Phoenix (and some much warmer weather) with my friends and counterparts at the NAMB Student Evangelism Mtg. What a great group of men and women who encourage me so in their commitment to seeing students come into relationship with Christ. I shared a message with them about staying focused on the calling that we have and used the Geico Woodchuck commercial as part of my talk. It was received well. You can see and read about my talk more here. The weather was very nice and it was enjoyable to run outside in a pair of shorts and long sleeved shirt. Back in Nashville this week has been incredibly cold. Lows in the teens and low 20s are not overly fun for me to run in but it was good to get out just the same.

Our girls got home this week from Union and have finished another semester. They will be with us for the rest of this month and the majority of January. Nice to have them back in the house for sure.

Our biggest news as of late, is that Sondra has started a full-time job at McGavock High School. We had been praying and contemplating her going to work full-time and this opportunity came to us so Sondra stepped through that door. She is a secretary for one of the principals at the high school and sees it as an opportunity of ministry. She has quite a bit of interaction with students and is thankful for the role.

I have a quick trip to California and then am done for the year. It will be good to slow down some before gearing up for a trip to New Orleans early Jan and then the India trip Jan 6-18. Will try to keep this blog updated a little more frequently than I have been lately. That is sort of a promise.

Check out the pic from above. It is my grandparents and their 8 grandchildren. I am one of them. See if you can pick me out. My best guess is that this is circa 1968 or 1969.

Woodchuck Commercial Funny

2010-11-29T08:46:00.001-06:00

Okay, so GEICO does make some funny commercials. Still not interested in their insurance but like this commercial.

Gratitude

2010-11-25T08:22:00.001-06:00

Maybe I am more aware now than I have been before, but there just seem to be so many things to be thankful for in my life. I grew up in a family that always stressed the importance of being thankful. I intentionally try to live in such a way that shows that I am thankful for both the good and the not so good things that come my way. It just seems like the right day to blog about thankfulness but I know that a Christ-followers life is one that is blessed everyday. Here are few things I am especially thankful for and not necessarily in any kind of ranked order:

The grace of God - this is # 1 without a doubt. I blogged earlier about thinking that the older I got the less grace I would need. Silly me.
My family including my bride and love of my life, Sondra and our two daughters, Morgan and Shelbi (I am even thankful for Mark, Shelbi's beau. He will be shocked if he reads or hears about this.)
My family - this includes my dad; my mom who has been enjoying heaven almost 3 yrs. now; my brother, James and his wife, Julie; my mother in law, Joyce; Bronwyn and Phil and their three great kids; extended family of cousins, uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews and some family members who are not really technically "family" anymore. Love them just the same.
My work family - the FUGE Camps crew is a great group of folks that I get to learn from and be encouraged. A host of other folks at LifeWay have invested in me so much and I am thankful for their influence in my life.
Church friends past and present. It gets pretty overwhelming when you start reflecting on almost 30 years of ministry in local churches and the number of people who have influenced your life.
Ministry friends throughout the US and the World. One of the joys of my ministry life is the number of people that God has allowed me to minister alongside.
The people who invested in me as a young boy and teenager. Too many to mention but a couple in particular who were youth leaders in my life, Mrs. Lorene Dickson and Mr. Manuel Aston. They were not young, cool youth leaders but two people who just invested in my life and have had a great impact on my life.

I could rattle on for awhile but suffice it to say, these are just a few that I am grateful for in my life.

Much to be thankful for in my life. Take some time to thank God for others in your life and contact a couple of them and let them know how much you are thankful for their influence in your life.

Proud of My Brother

2010-11-24T11:03:00.000-06:00

In Harrisonville on Tuesday, James Turner of Independence was among the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 people who came to ensure that Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church/family congregation did not disrupt the funeral of Army Cpl. Jacob R. Carver.

Creative Hallelujah Chorus

2010-11-15T14:31:00.000-06:00

I wish I had an ounce of this kind of creativity. Watch and enjoy. This takes place in Macy's in Philadelphia -

India Trip - $5 for India

2010-11-02T13:47:00.002-05:00

Those of you who have known me awhile, know that I traveled to India in January 2007 with some friends from our church. We did all kinds of ministry including conducting a pastor's conference; home visits; preaching; and many other ministry activities.

Last week after much prayer and wrestling with God, I decided that I would go back to India in January 2011. I put some conditions on my going and God was quick to reduce me to a nub and helped me to understand that He was in charge and that He was in charge of the conditions. All that to say, I bought a Delta ticket and agreed to go January 6-18. The total cost of the trip will be in the neighborhood of $2800.

I would like to invite you to be a part of my prayer team and would also like to ask you to consider giving $5 for India. That is a small monetary commitment but one that I believe most can handle. If you are willing, please send $5 to me at:
Paul Turner
101 West Catalina Court
Hermitage, TN 37076

If you choose to give more, that is appreciated and know that all monies donated will go towards my trip to India. It will cover travel, lodging, and ministry while on the field. Any money over and above the $2800 will also be used to support New Hope India Missions.

If you are in need of a receipt for tax purposes please make a donation to:

New Hope Int'l Ministries,1328 Oak Valley Drive, Mt Juliet, TN 37122

We will be once again conducting a pastor's conference; making home visits; preaching in many churches and one of the highlights for me will be to baptize a young man we have been sponsoring for the last 10 years. He gave his life to Christ this past summer. This picture is Samuel and me back in January 2007.

Thanks for your prayer support and your monetary gift.

God Bless Chick-fil-a

2010-10-28T20:05:00.000-05:00

Tim Hawkins is a wonderful comedian who is clean and funny. You will enjoy this video and if you don't it may be because you have not been blessed to have Chick-fil-a in your area. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Sondra

2010-10-25T14:03:00.000-05:00

Morgan, Sondra, Shelbi

In my last post I stated that I was going to start mentioning some of those people who have had great influence in my life. Sometimes this is the one whom I have a tendency to not make such a big deal of in influencing my life, but I am able to remedy that now.

Sondra Jean (Holmes) Turner is definitely "one-of-a-kind" and has the most influence in my life for the last 25 years plus. (How can you be married to a wonderful woman for that long and some of that not rub off on you anyway?) She is amazing. I am going to attempt to do a compare and contrast and then let you draw your own conclusions on how she has most influenced my life.

She is black and white on issues.       I am pretty gray on many things
She is organized.                               I am organized enough to get by.
She is beautiful.                                 I am handsome (and modestly humble)
She loves Jesus.                                I see much of Jesus in her.
She is a great wife.                            I am running to catch up on this one.
She likes meatloaf.                            I let her order it when we eat out.
She is tireless at home.                      I am in bed early because I am tired.
She loves me.                                   I am a recipient of great grace. (I love her)
She is an amazing mother.                 I do things that amaze her (as in, Really?)

I am so thankful that God has allowed us to be a part of one another's life. She is incredibly amazing and I am a blessed man.

Happy Birthday Sondra! I love you. Thanks for allowing me to a part of your life these last 25 plus years and I can't wait to see what you are like when we are 90! So looking forward to the rest of our lives together.

Influence

2010-10-15T16:14:00.000-05:00

I think I have hit that interesting age in life where many people who are younger than me, 20- and 30-somethings primarily, think I have wisdom. I am pretty sure that I do not have much, but my gray hair sort of lends itself to this whole "wisdom" thing. To be completely honest, I am a little flattered and a lot scared. I know I do not know much. I do have experience and get the opportunity to be around alot of folks in ministry and realize that I do have some influence in others' lives. What a responsibility.

Turners circa early 70s

It has also caused me to think about many people who have influenced my life in so many great and strong ways. I have talked about my dad and my mom in this blog many times and those two people obviously have influenced me the most. It is hard to believe that my mom has been gone almost 3 years ago and yet her influence in my life continues strong. Of course, my dad continues to influence me in so many ways.

My brother, James, is almost 4 years older than me and lives in MO. He has taught me that reaching out and helping others is always the right thing to do. He is one of those guys who sees someone who needs help and is quick to meet those needs. He is quick witted, full of life, and a joy to be around. Unfortunately we live about 500 miles apart and I do not get to see him often.

In future posts, I am going to mention some of those people who have had and continue to have influence in my life. I think it is good to focus on others and their influence in your life. I would encourage you to begin doing that too and send them a note telling them how they have influenced you.

A New Reality

2010-09-29T08:06:00.000-05:00

A couple of blog posts ago I wrote about change and how I am okay with it, especially when it does not involve me. You can read it here if you are interested.

Lately I have discovered that this new life that Sondra and I are leading is just that - change. But "the more things change the more they stay the same", as the old saying goes. This transition in our lives is really, really good. It is strange and weird and we have by no means transitioned completely, but I am discovering some things I had not anticipated.

I have more focused "free" time - our evenings are not filled with ball games, practices, etc. that centered around the girls' activities
I have fallen more in love with Sondra. At the risk of sounding sappy, I knew all along how incredible of a wife and mom she is, but with more time not filled with activity, I find myself just longing to spend more time with her
We have more time for one another. Heck, we even played backgammon the other night and we had not done that in years. It was one of those fun games we used to play as newlyweds.
We have attended free Titans and Predators games. I love free and love sports but really just love spending time with Sondra.
I find myself praying for and being thankful for Shelbi and Morgan more than ever. What incredible young women they have become and with text, email, and Skype, we stay in touch alot.
I find myself reflecting on the past and dreaming of the future more. Maybe because I turned 47 in early September and realize I have about 20 years of full-time ministry left. I want to make the most of it. There are some great days already lived and even greater days ahead.

Life is good. It is very good. I love our daughters and am thankful for how God is using them. I love my wife and am so incredibly blessed. I am adjusting to the "empty nest" whatever that really means. I am thankful for some new things that God is teaching me about Him and about me in Him.

What a Crazy Couple of Weeks

2010-09-16T10:46:00.001-05:00

Busy is the key word for the last couple of weeks for me. I am convinced that I do not work any harder than any one else does, but these past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind. Last week I flew to Orlando for Rock the Universe hosted at Universal-Orlando and got to see many youth leaders who God is doing some great things through their lives and ministries. Our friend Todd also got us on the new Harry Potter ride and it was pretty awesome. Along with hearing some great bands like the Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Toby Mac, Skillet, and others I got to do an interview w/ John Cooper from Skillet. Great guy with lots of energy. That is the two of us in the pic to the right.

I got home from Orlando Sunday afternoon in time to start setting up for our LifeWay National Youth Worker's Conference. What a great time to host youth leaders from across the country and even had a young leader from Malawi. How cool is my job that I get to minister to youth ministers and encourage them? Incredibly blessed to get to do what I get to do. The pic to the left includes me hanging with Addison Road and some of the FUGE Camps team. We had special guests like Dave Barnes, Brandon Heath, Lee Miller, Mike Farren from Pocketful of Rocks and the band Red. Speakers included Derwin Gray, Jeff Iorg, Alvin Reid, Ed Stetzer and Ben Arment. What a great group of speakers. Two of my favorite people, Tommy and Eddie, who make up The Skit Guys did a great job for us as well.

Sondra and I are looking forward to the girls coming home for a quick visit this weekend. It is DCA homecoming and a couple of soccer games so the girls will be here for a short weekend but is the first time they have been home since school started. Love those two and can't wait to see them. Sondra is subbing alot this week due to one of assistant's father being in the hospital.

We have much to be thankful for in our lives. Most of all thankful for His grace.

Holding On to What?

2010-09-05T19:17:00.000-05:00

Saw this video again from Francis Chan and the way I too many times hold on to stuff that hinders me from being all that Christ has created me to be. Is it really right that I live life in balance? Or, is the Christian life designed to be an "all out" kind of life? I know the answer. I struggle with the action.

Change

2010-08-26T20:19:00.000-05:00

Most of us really like change as long as it is happening to someone else. When it comes to land in our own lives and in our own homes, it definitely takes on a whole new connotation. I am all about change, especially when I am consulting a church, leading others, and talking about how to get at it differently. I am little less enthused with change when it hits me square in the chest. And . . . change has hit me square in the chest. Sondra and I have been married for 25 years, have two incredible daughters and a not so incredible dog, but she is a dog and does not really count in this conversation.

Change hit us last Thursday/Friday. Morgan is now a college student and has had the audacity to join her sister at Union (her sister left us two years ago). The house is quiet; we have to take care of the dog (scratch that . . . that is the same. It is their dog but we have always been the ones to care for that four legged beast); picking up the trash takes about half as long; laundry loads are minimal; and when we clean the house, it stays clean.

Some of you have walked this road already and are laughing and saying, "You will get used to it and if they come back home, you will wonder when they are going to leave." We might get there soon, but that is not where we are right now. We miss them. We also know that we are thankful that they both are well adjusted, God loving and serving young ladies. In spite of their dad, they have done well to this point.

We will adjust. Sondra and I have been very intentional in making sure that we knew each other and our whole lives have not revolved around our girls. We have not had to reacquaint ourselves with one another. But . . . we do miss the girls.

They are good girls though. The took a picture of their first day of school like they always did when they were still at home. Their mom is glad and proud of them for remembering her and taking that picture. I am too. Miss them, but so proud and thankful for who they have become and are becoming.

People Watching

2010-08-17T19:50:00.000-05:00

It was nice to be at home most of last week and then on Friday morning I headed out to Ft. Myers, FL to be a part of the SW FL SS Conference. I have to admit that I am not a big fan of Delta Airlines, in fact, most of the time I work hard avoiding their carrier. It was not an option this time so I boarded a flight to ATL (all flights on Delta go thru ATL) seated in a row with two of the largest men I have ever flown with. I had the aisle, they had the rest of the three seat row. I had about 2/3 of my seat. Arm rests up w/ the exception of the one on the aisle. It was buried about 6 inches into my ribs. But, I have to say, these two guys were extremely pleasant to be around. Not that large people are not pleasant, but many of them I have sat beside wedge into the seat and then spread out and just assume I want 1/3 of the seat I paid for and they can have the other 2/3s.

Most of the trip consisted of layovers. . . in fact, long layovers. Lots of sitting around. Lots of opportunities to meet people or stick my nose in a book. I actually did both. And then I people watched. I watched families on "last minute, right before school starts" trips, Hot, sweaty, tired, irritable, worn out families somehow who will get home and talk about the wonderful trip they had in spite of the big tiff they got into at the airport. Business people dressed to the nines and trying to be all professional and having to stand in long lines just like everyone else. Old people; young people; frustrated folks. and then a species of traveler who aimlessly walked through the terminal, smiling and seemingly oblivious to the fact that they should be scurrying somewhere because that is what you do in airports. And me, I sat and watched. I grinned at some; nodded at many; pitied some of the younger parents chasing their kids through the crowds; and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I like people. I like to watch them. I like to try and figure out their "story" in a few fleeting seconds as they pass by. I like to people watch.

And I like to catch someone else's eye who is people watching who sees the same scene being played out and just smile. We are watching people. And then it occurs to us that not only are we watching people, people are watching us. Always. What I do matters. People are watching. Am I representing Him in my constant walk? He is watching. Not to catch me doing something wrong, but because He delights in me. Because I am His. He cares. And because of that, I want to bring Him glory.

Tiger, Mel and Me

2010-08-09T13:49:00.000-05:00

I do not like writing this blog entry. There. I said it. I do not like writing this particular blog entry because unless you have been in a cave lately, you know that Tiger's life is a mess, Mel, well, he is a mess as well, and Paul, yep, me, that one, is a mess too.

How does it happen that people do stupid things? How is it that we all "fall short of the glory of God"? And, I know what you are probably thinking, "what did Paul do?" No big announcements of gross sin forthcoming. No tales of lurid affairs, running around with shady characters, and no videos of me doing something I should not be doing. But, I do have to tell you, my life and my actions are far from perfect. I get mad a people who drive slowly in the "speed lane". I get impatient when things do not go as I think they should. I think less of people than God does way too often. I feel entitled to many things when I have no "right" or reason to feel that way. My thoughts are at times not like Christ. I fall short. Way short. The only difference is . . . my life does not play out on a camera like Tiger's and Mel's life do. I can pretty much travel the world and may see a few people who know who I am, but for all practical purposes, I am an unknown.

But . . .there is One who knows me well. He knows my thoughts. He knows my actions. He knows my heart. My life is always on camera in front of Him. No thing I think, say or do is out of eye sight, earshot, or ever out of His realm of knowing my motives regardless of the outward expression. I am always on His camera.

So . . . I need grace. I used to think that as I would grow older I would need less grace from Him. Dumb of me really. I do not think God doses out grace like we think He does. He just gives. And I need it. I need His grace to save me from myself. And, I need to remember that when someone falls, messes up, sins, crashes and burns, that is when we see His grace manifested. Not that grace is not there before, but it comes to light.

I need grace. The more I understand Him and grow in love with Him, the more grace I realize I need. He is the gracious, righteous and Almighty One. I choose less of me and all of Him. May that be my continual choice as long as He graces me with breath.

Vacation is for Families

2010-08-04T19:51:00.000-05:00

Last Friday I flew to Jackson, MS via Chicago and spoke three times at the Growing Churches Conference in Brandon, MS at Crossgates Church. Great group of youth leaders and got to reacquaint with Kipp Smith is a wonderful youth minister going at it into his late 40s. Also, Ken Hall at the MS Baptist Convention is a great guy and good to see him as well. The team that put the conference together is one of the best I have worked with. Great job of communicating and everything was very well done.

Saturday night I flew to Orlando and met my family who had driven from home and on Sunday we worshipped at FBC, Orlando; met our friends the Keators and then drove to Sarasota. The Keators are letting us use their condo this week and it is very nice. We have enjoyed the pool and the beach. Great times with the girls. We will try to put some pics up somewhere I am sure.

Leaving a Legacy

2010-07-28T10:57:00.000-05:00

I think about this topic quite often and more so I guess the older I get. I think about the legacy that has been given to me by my parents and the one that I am leaving behind for our daughters. Today though I have been thinking about a young man named Nathan Johnson. Nathan is the son of a friend and co-worker of mine who has had an incredible impact on the Kingdom. You can read about his story here. You will see that link sends you to an article that was written in 2006. Four years ago today, Nathan was killed in an automobile accident. He was living for Christ and making a difference. Through his death, God continues to use his influence to impact lives for Christ. Please pray for his parents Chris and Kathy and his two brothers.

No one of us is ever guaranteed of the remainder of this day or tomorrow. What kind of legacy are you and I leaving that brings glory and honor to Christ?

DCA Million Dollar Match

2010-07-26T10:22:00.000-05:00

Some of you know that Donelson Christian Academy is where our girls graduated from high school and many of you know of the devastating flood that Nashville experienced in early May. DCA experienced much flooding and for the last 2.5 months we have been in restoration phase to get the school back open for the '10-11 school year. An anonymous donor has graciously offered to match up to $500,000 in donations from now until September 1. Please consider giving whatever you can. You can donate here.

LifeSpan Development

2010-07-26T07:54:00.000-05:00

The company/ministry I work for has a comprehensive, intentional plan of spiritual development. Here is a video that gives you a little glimpse into what that is all about.

LifeSpan By LifeWay from BiblicalSolutionsFor on Vimeo.

Fast-paced Kind of Life

2010-07-21T16:16:00.000-05:00

Seasons come and seasons go and I am reminded of Ecclesiastes where there is "a time for everything". The FUGE camp theme this summer is Kairos - meaning "a defining moment" and each day a certain Bible character and character trait are explored, expounded, and never exhausted.

This theme has been impactful on me this summer. I am in my 6th week of some part of FUGE camps this summer. Ridgecrest twice, Union University, North Greenville University, and Jenness Park in California. I have seen the same video clips, studied the same Bible study lessons, led pretty much the same leadership training lessons, but have heard different takes on the character/character trait in sermons. All of these have contributed to me "getting it" in a number of ways. From funny illustrations, hard core Biblical sermons, poignant illustrations and stories, God has quickened my heart and mind to really focus on the Kairos. Defining moments in life that God brings our way and wonders if we will choose to be loving; be obedient; willing to sacrifice; be a person of integrity; and commit to His way. Regardless. I am thankful for each of these lessons and sermons and illustrations that have been shared primarily for the benefit of students, but have taught this trainer that God is Who He says He is, not who I try to make Him be.

On another note, today, July 21st is my mom's birthday. She would be 68 today. All of those themes that we have studied at camp this summer, my mom modeled for me. How blessed I am. I miss her today probably more than I have in a long time. Sometimes I long just to hear her voice say my name one more time. I know that is purely selfish on my part. I will work through that, but oh, how blessed I am to have had my mom for 44 years. I am including one of my fave pics of her from many years ago. Love you mom. Thanks for investing in my life and the lives of so many others.

It Was 20 Years Ago Today

2010-07-12T07:31:00.002-05:00

Sounds like a line from Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band but actually it holds greater significance for me on this day today. I was youth pastor at FBC, Donelson, Tn and had taken our youth group to camp with Two Rivers Baptist Church. Two sister churches who decided not to compete for kids but reach as many as we could in ministry. Med Skeens was the youth pastor there at the time and we had a good working ministry relationship. We were at camp at Panama City Beach, FL and my wife called me at 3a and said it was time and that I needed to get home.

A little background - Sondra was great with child and that child was to be Shelbi Brooke. She was not due for another 2 weeks so we made all kinds of contingency plans just in case I was in FL at camp when Shelbi decided it was time to make her entry into the world. It might very well be the last time she was early to anything too.

I climbed on a plane, connected in Atlanta and arrived at the hospital with about an hour to spare. Sondra's sister, Bronwyn had come from Tulsa to stay with Sondra while I was gone and that proved to be a timely, wise plan. Shelbi showed up about 12:40p and our lives have never been the same since.

Shelbi is one of those blessings that God just continues to manifest. She is bright, articulate, and has more mercy than anyone I know. She is very driven and focused and is easily frustrated when her plans do not go like she had thought they would. She loves to "set her jaw" and is so much like her mom. That is a good thing for sure. She loves others and sacrifices for them. The pic to the side is her w/ an orphan in China just last month.

It has been truly amazing to watch Shelbi learn and grow and become a beautiful, young woman. She makes this dad very proud, not so much by all the wonderful things she does, but because she is ours. Happy Birthday Shelbi. I cannot believe you are 20! You make your mom and me very proud and thankful and blessed. God sure did a good thing for us when He allowed us to be your parents.

Have a great birthday. Morgan and I will celebrate it for you in San Francisco. Love you.

San Fran Update

2010-07-11T23:15:00.000-05:00

Here is the quick rundown on what all Morgan and I accomplished today. Productive wise - not much. Making memories and enjoying the city - quite a bit.

Slept in a little, grabbed breakfast at the hotel, climbed in the car, drove to Candlestick Park. I remember it for many great football/baseball games; Morgan says, "Hey, they finished up the Amazing Race here." On to Golden Gate Park; drive along the ocean; Presidio; Golden Gate Bridge; Vista Point; Marin Headlands (see pic); Golden Gate Seminary; quick Starbucks run; Muir Woods; Fisherman's Wharf (Boudin Sourdough bowl and clam chowder); seals at Pier 39; Coit Tower; Lombard Street; Painted Ladies (Full House kids and fans will know them); Haight/Ashbury District (60s love in); Los Pinos (local Mexican that was truly amazing); back downtown for Ghirardelli Square and hot fudge sundae (we split one). Back to the hotel. We mixed in a Skype conversation in there with Shelbi and Sondra too. Good times. Sleeping in and on to Jenness Park for FUGE tomorrow.

Good Week in VA/SC

2010-07-09T12:57:00.000-05:00

The Snyder wedding was a lot of fun last Saturday in Richmond. So thankful to be a part of that service with Jake and Kari. They jetted off to Cancun and I have not heard from them since. Good for them. Jake had a parting comment to Kari's dad as they pulled away that was typical Jake. Greg took it in stride and I think realized that Kari is really now Jake's. He must lay away at night worrying. (joke)

FUGE was great at North Greenville University this week. I love that I get to invest in and learn from youth leaders/pastors for all over the US. What a privilege to hear their stories, be encouraged and encourage.

I head home today for a few hours and then Morgan and I head to San Francisco for a couple of days and then to FUGE at Jenness Park in California. Really looking forward to that time with her. Hard to believe she is headed to college next month. By the way, she gets in tonight from Panama City Beach - FUGE and we both head out for a 610a flight. What was I thinking booking that early of a flight. Being the good dad that I am though I had a free 1st class ticket that she is using. She can sleep in the big seats while I rock the poor man's 1st class (exit aisle row).

Sondra has painted the master bath while we were gone this week. I am looking forward to seeing it and more so looking forward to seeing her. She is a wonderful guy and I am a blessed guy.

A Panera State of Mind

2010-07-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

There are many times that I am traveling and find my way to the local Panera to take advantage of their wonderful food and their free Wi-Fi. Now that Starbucks has realized that providing free Wi-Fi is a no-brainer you would think I would try to hit there more often. Not so. It is about loyalty for me. Panera is like a trusted friend. You know the kind of experience you are going to have pretty much at any Panera. I guess the same is true of Starbucks since I have visited many of them while traveling internationally, but Panera has something that Starbucks does not; it has many memories of times that Sondra and I just sit and talk and plan and dream and generally hang out. I think it started because Panera provided free Wi-Fi and I got used to going there so naturally, you go where you feel most comfortable and valued.

We like going places where we feel that people are valued. People will put up with a lot of challenges when they still feel valued over stuff. I am sitting at a Panera in Richmond, Va writing this right now watching people stream into it and listening to some of their stories. Lots of couples and friends coming in greeting one another. Some carrying their Bibles and other resources meeting in accountability. Hugs, handshakes, smiles, and even a few tears at times. People doing life together. People encouraging, listening, interviewing, and enjoying one another.

Sort of reminds me of church or at least what church is designed to be. People living life together. People unified but not dependent on every one seeing all of life exactly the same way. People desiring to be in fellowship and relationship with one another. People accepting them the way they are but not letting them stay that way if there are things in their life that God is showing them that change/transformation is needed. People loving one another enough to challenge and encourage. When people feel like they are relegated to just keeping the programs running that when programs are more important than them, those people will begin to look for places where they are valued over the stuff. May all churches value people and their lives being transformed far and above more than just keeping the programs running for the sake of the church.

Oh, another thing about Panera, their bagels and their Strawberry/Poppy Seed Salad are wonderful.

Influencers

2010-06-28T09:06:00.000-05:00

Gene Wilkes

Sometimes God puts people in your life who you know will have a lasting impact on you. Many times you can count your own family members; mom,dad, brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles and I am thankful that God has blessed me with those kind of family members. So many of them have helped shaped me.

Sometimes He places people in your life that you run in to every once in awhile but regardless how often you see them, they just impact and influence and continue to do so. I have many men in my life who have invested in me and for them I am truly grateful. There is one guy who I met about 25 years ago who just keeps influencing me whether directly or through his writings. C. Gene Wilkes is a guy who gets it. He has written some of the most meaningful stuff on leadership including Jesus on Leadership and Paul on Leadership (the Apostle, not me) and another great book called My Identity in Christ. If you have not read any or all of these, then in my opinion, you are missing out. Gene has pastored Legacy Church in Plano, Tx for over 20 years and has led them to be missional in their scope and focus in ministry.

We have run a few miles together, climbed Baldy at Glorieta that really was more walk/jog up and run down. He blogs here and you will be encouraged by reading his posts. Thanks Gene for influencing me and so many others.

Today, he and his wife Kim celebrate 35 years of marriage. Congratulations Gene and Kim and Gene thanks for investing in me up close and from afar.

I always thank my God for you because of God’s grace given to you in Christ Jesus 1 Cor 1:4 (HCSB)

Hmmm. And So It Goes

2010-06-20T22:06:00.000-05:00

This was an interesting weekend at the Turner's. Shelbi had been in China for two weeks with Show Hope and was to return on Friday night but with bad weather across the northern part of the US, she made it to Newark and then flew to Washington Dulles and that was as far as she was able to get. We got her a hotel not far from the airport and she spent the night and got home on Saturday morning. She had a great trip and you can read some of her exploits here. Her boyfriend Mark was surprising her by having some time off from his summer job at Winshape, so he drove over on Friday and was with us Friday and Saturday. He might have thought it a little awkward being at our house without Shelbi but hey, he got to do his laundry and eat some non-camp food so I think overall he was pretty good with it.

Friday night was also rehearsal and rehearsal dinner for Kyle and Rachel's wedding that I was officiating on Saturday at 530p outdoors. The trick was that we needed no rain which we got, but we also got about 96 degree weather both for the rehearsal and the actual wedding. It was on the Bicentennial Mall in Nashville and actually was very nice, but incredibly hot.

We also caught a late night showing of Toy Story 3 and it was great. Thoroughly enjoyed it and it has been fun to be on the journey with Andy as he has grown up and heads off to college. Morgan's life parallels the chronology of the whole Toy Story journey which made the ending very poignant for especially Sondra but I got a little misty myself. Also, Morgan registers for college in the morning at Union University so we will have two at Union which being translated means we no longer have any money. Just saying. I know, I know . . . it is an investment.

And, today is Father's Day. I have an amazing dad and have blogged about him many times so I will not embarrass him again, other to say that I love you dad, and you are the best dad. I am convinced of that fact. Here is an earlier blog of how I feel about my dad. The girls presented me with a very appropriate card and a new green Polo shirt. It fits nicely. Going to be a busy week at FUGE camps at Union this week.

Good Leaders

2010-06-17T16:04:00.000-05:00

The last couple of posts I have done have dealt with leadership and leaders surrounding themselves with people who have diverse ideas than them. Surrounding yourself with people just like you is a very precarious position to be in as a leader.

This week I attended the SBC as an observer. I went to work the LifeWay booth as part of my work assignment. I enjoyed seeing old friends and making new ones and especially encouraging pastors and youth leaders.Many of those who attend the SBC use this event as their family vacation and it is always fun to play with the kids and talk with the teenagers who come with their families.

One of the things that stood out to me this year was the evidence of good leadership displayed by good leaders. Kevin Ezell of High View in Louisville, KY was the President of the SBC Pastor's Conference this year and did a great job of getting a diverse group of speakers to challenge and encourage attendees. Kevin is one of those younger leaders (we are about the same age so I consider him a younger leader), who understands that our convention has got to get at it differently if we are to move forward in this Kingdom Work. He put together a platform that displayed freshness and honor of those who have paved the way for a new day for Southern Baptists.

Another leader who I watched in action was Johnny Hunt. The way he honored all opinions during the discussion of the GCR proposal and vote showed graciousness and wisdom. Wherever one stood on the GCR, I witnessed a leader handle the issues and not get caught in emotion.

I also watched LifeWay President Thom Rainer defuse a potentially volatile situation in the Q&A portion of the LifeWay report. I have much to learn and am thankful for his example of leading with compassion, truth and grace. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to work where I do.

In using these examples of good leaders, I am not necessarily saying that I agree with all of their ideas and actions, but they displayed great leadership. I think one of the things that I am learning (slowly some of my friends might add) is that it is important to listen, watch and learn all that you can from whoever you can. And some of the best lessons in leadership can be learned by not just looking at leaders in a position but those people who are influencers regardless of their position.

I have much to learn.