Filed under: Jim Lyon - Posts
Today’s Ten
by Jim Lyon, Senior Pastor
Sometimes, it’s helpful to sit down and make a list. Maybe you need to clear your head with a “to do” list—a piece of paper numbered 1-5, identifying things that must be done today. A list like that can help you focus.
Maybe you need to push forward by making a “problems to solve” list. Or, a “people I want to encourage today with a note” list. Or, a short list of “character traits I want to develop in the next 30 days” (you know, like: (a) being more patient, (b) being a better listener, (c) speaking kindly about everyone, etc.). Hmmm. These kinds of lists can be tall mountains to climb—but, whoa, what a difference they could make in my world and the way I relate to the people around me.
When I’m weary or overwhelmed or tempted to pretend I’m a martyr (the “life isn’t fair” gig that always takes me nowhere) I’ve found that a “Top Ten Things for Which I Am Thankful” list can really be useful. It can be hard to get started on this one (especially when you want to list all of the ways you’ve been wronged or how others have failed you). But, once you get started, everything looks different—and better. “Think then on these things,” the Scripture says in Philippians—things that are of “good report.” It’s always good to hear a good report—and it’s always good to make a list of them.
So, here goes: my Top Ten “I’m Thankful For” List (in no particular order):
(1) The Madison Park Church family and facilities during last week’s North American Convention of the Church of God. I stood in amazement every day of the Convention, watching thousands worship and find life under “our” roof. It occurred to me that God knew way before we did how useful Madison Park would be for His larger church, even before we built it. And, our greeters, Holy Grounds workers, tech and building crews, parking lot shuttle drivers, and so many more … well, this local church was a shining light, a welcoming, loving, and Christ-like family.
(2) Our Board of Elders. I’ve witnessed once more this week, as I have often before, the extraordinary depth and soul of the eleven other men and women who serve, with me, as Elders at Madison Park. From our Chair, David Sebastian, to our Non-Resident Elders (Rod Stafford and Robbie Davis), we are in the company of giants. Really. Great souls. Sage. Strong. Generous. Godly. Kind. An amazing team.
(3) The Bible. No, this is not a “Sunday School answer.” I am thankful today for God’s Word. It gives life, wisdom, and confidence. The Bible is an anchor. I must never take it for granted.
(4) Chocolate Ice Cream. On sale. Breyer’s, two for five dollars. Nothing fancy—no nuts, no candy swirls, no cookie dough chunks—just plain, smooth, creamy chocolate. Heavenly.
(5) My Astro Van. It’s old (a 1994). It has over 200,000 miles. It’s beat-up in places. Yes, it needs new brakes. But, it works. It takes me here and there. Our four boys were practically raised in the middle and back seats. It’s paid for. The license tabs are cheap. And, driving it keeps me humble.
(6) Waxed begonias. Dave (at Welsh’s Nursery) recommended these annuals to me three years ago, when I was planting flowers for our son’s wedding (which took place in our front yard). He dubbed them “easy to care for and showy.” He was right. Plant ‘em. Water ‘em. Relax. Beautiful.
(7) Makenna. That’s our granddaughter. Have I told you yet how absolutely gorgeous she is? How brilliant? And, well (thanks to her very savvy mom, our daughter-in-law, Nicki), she is a fashion plate—always perfectly coiffed. Well, er uh, I guess she can’t be coiffed just yet—she doesn’t have any hair. But, at seven months, she’s still a knock-out.
(8) Makenna’s Grandma. That’s my wife, Maureen. Every man should be privileged to have a wife like this, who believes in him, loves him, calls the best out of him, supports him, encourages him, and is patient with him (even when he’s late or forgets to place his dirty clothes in the hamper). She is on my “thanks be to God list” every day.
(9) Music. I like all kinds—well, okay, maybe not all kinds. I’m not that enthused about country and Chinese. But, hymns? Awesome. “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” is one I sang to myself today. Contemporary Christian? Classic pop? Prokofiev? Broadway? Yup. They all move me in the right direction.
(10) Grace. I’ve received some. A lot, actually. Undeserved kindness and understanding. I want to share some, too. It only seems right. And, grace always brings peace. Thank you, God.
Wait, there’s more; now that I’m in the groove, I want to write more. But, no, I’m limiting myself to the “top ten.” I’ll make a new list tomorrow. Maybe I won’t have to make any other kind of lists, if I can keep these up every day. I feel better already.
Filed under: -- Discipleship & Education, -- Volunteer Ministry, Feature Articles
MPC Library: A Great Resource
Do you know that at the MPC Library you can check out a wide variety of books and videos that will help you be transformed by renewing your mind?
Linda McCord has given many years of faithful service to the MPC Library, shelving and re-shelving hundreds of books making it possible for anyone in the congregation to check out good quality fiction and non fiction. What started as an easy task of organizing a small collection of books has grown into a very well rounded library, including the latest fiction and a large collection of DVD’s. When the Church Offices moved from Scatterfield the library was relocated at the Cross Street office facility. Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education, says that “The library ladies, under the leadership of Linda, have faithfully worked at organizing and managing a large collection of books, and movies at the Cross Street site, and although the library has become less frequented, their faithfulness has continued. A great thanks and appreciation goes to Linda for the well organized, library ministry at MPC. ” Linda now believes, “It’s time for the library to move to Madison Park and into the digital era.”
MPC-goers can help build the library by collecting Library Builder Stamps from the Family Christian Bookstore. When you purchase an item, ask for your Library Builder Stamps and for every 20 stamps MPC gets $5 towards a new book purchase for the library.
You can also help the library move into the future by taking this simple survey. Complete the survey online by visiting MadisonParkChurch.org. Each survey that includes contact information will be added to a drawing for a Library PRIZE PACKAGE, which includes copies of: Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Broken on the Back Row by Sandi Patty, Facing the Giants DVD Movie, and Unveiled by Francine Rivers. Surveys submitted using the form published in Threads must be received at the Church Office or Information Center by Wednesday, July 16 to be entered in the PRIZE PACKAGE Giveaway. Online entry deadline is July 17, 2009. The winner will be announced in the July 21 Threads. One entry per person. No purchase necessary. The winner is responsible for picking up PRIZE PACKAGE at the Church Office. Online Library Survey.
Filed under: Weekly News and Events
News and Events – July 8, 2009
Summertime Wednesdays
Wednesdays at 6:30pm in The Commons
Come enjoy a variety of exciting and challenging programs scheduled for the weeks ahead:
- July 8 – Salt & Light: Madison County Roundtable
Salt and Light – How can we make a difference? How can Madison County move forward in the next year? In the next decade? Does our church have a role to play? What are the critical issues facing our community? Is it any of our business? What would Jesus do?
These are some of the questions Pastor Jim Lyon will address in a summer forum at Madison Park, introducing a new community-wide conversation that will unfold during the next year. Salt changes the taste of everything it touches, and can preserve usefulness; light alters the way we see the world around us. Jesus called us to be both. Come to “the Roundtable” and see for yourself. - July 15 – Jeff Cottrell Life Story
Sam Hanna and Jeff Cottrell will bring a real-life “Cops and Robbers” story. Jeff a record-holding athlete who attended the University of Michigan on an athletic scholarship found himself drawn into a crowd of illegal drugs and crime. Jeff has lived several lifetimes even thou he’s just now approaching the age of forty and shares about the danger of drugs, crime, and the power of the Gospel to transform. - July 22 – Salt & Light: Community Service
Serving the community in tangible ways can be fun and rewarding. MPC-goers of all ages are invited to work on simple projects throughout Anderson; at Dove Harbor, the Christian Center, Operation Love, and on the MPC church property. Others will be able to serve the community without leaving The Commons! No matter your age or abilities, everyone can serve in a meaningful and beneficial way. - July 29 – All-Church Picnic
Madison Park Commemorative Walkway
Create a lasting memorial with the Madison Park Commemorative Walkway.
The Commemorative Walkway provides a new entry path to the Holy Grounds patio from the main entrance and driveway and will be beautifully landscaped with rose bushes, perennials and park benches. The walkway design will enhance the exiting patio and create a sacred space to reflect, dream, enjoy great conversation and build lasting friendships. Brick pavers for the Commemorative Walkway may be purchased and engraved with a family name, an individual’s name (“In Honor Of” or “In Memory Of”) or a favorite scripture. Orders may be placed at the table in The Commons through Sunday, July 12. Orders may also be placed be placed at the church office or on the MPC website. Proceeds of the walkway go to the Building Fund. Download the Order Form. For more information contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
A Look Ahead
- Indiana Church of God State Conventions
- Northern Indiana Campmeeting: July 26-29 at Yellow Creek Lake Camp, Claypool, Indiana.
- Central Indiana Campmeeting: July 26-August 2 at Central Indiana Campground, Mooresville, Indiana.
- 24 Hours to Ignite Your Passion, Renew Your Vision, Energize Your Church! – October 20-21 at Madison Park Church, sponsored by Church Builders Plus. Guest Leaders Will Mancini, Gabe Lyons, Ron Fowler and Michael Card.
- Best Practices for Pastoral and Congregational Financial Health Conference. November 6-7 at Madison Park Church. Sponsored by Indiana Ministries, in conjunction with the Board of Pensions, Anderson University Falls School of Business and School of Theology.
Ministry Happenings
Adult Ministries:
For more information contact, Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- New Small Group: God wants men to be leaders in their homes. Whether you are a single father through divorce, separation, or otherwise, come join a group that will be a source of encouragement and accountability as you strive to be the best father to your children. Interest Meeting on August 26, 6:00pm. Contact: Rudy Pyle at (765) 278-9366.
- Sign-up and Stay Connected! Join the Threads Weekly Email List: To sign-up for the weekly Threads email, visit our website at www.MadisonParkChurch.org or stop by the sign-up table in The Commons.
- Well Women: Fridays, 10:00am – Noon. A ministry for women who feel called to model a life of balance, self-care, grace and growth. Each session will include forty-five minutes of light exercise and one hour of guided Bible Study. Kimberly Majeski, leader.
- RefresHer: The book for the 2009-2010 RefresHer Bible Study is now available. The Beth Moore study of Esther: It’s Tough Being A Woman is available at the Information Center ($15 for the guide). The ladies Bible study will run from September through May. Contact: Tami Seulean at (765) 643-9433.
Athletics and Outdoor Ministries
- Open Road Motorcyclists Ride: Saturday, July 18, 1:00pm to Ivanhoes and Fairmont. BUG Ride: Tuesday, July 28 leaving at 7:00pm from MPC parking lot to Maucky’s in Frankton. Click here for a complete listing of 2009 Open Road rides.
- MPC Bicycling Ministry: Tuesdays at 6:00pm (weather permitting) at the MPC parking lot. Bicyclists of all ages are invited to meet each Tuesday through October and ride from 6:00pm until dark. All skill levels and paces are welcome; no bicyclist will be left behind. Contact: Pete Spoo at (765) 642-8846.
Senior Ministries
- J.O.Y (Just Older Youth): Annual Picnic, Thursday, July 16, 11:30am at the home of Terry and Sherry Minton, 510 South 300 East in Anderson. Everyone bring a picnic dish and enjoy the fellowship and games. All seniors are invited to this afternoon of fun.
- J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) Trip: Thursday, August 13. A chartered bus will leave MPC at 8:00am to tour the Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio (or the optional destination of Fairfield Mall.) Cost: $15 for the bus plus meal money (no admittance fee). For reservations contact Karen Zierer at (765) 643-5637.
- J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) Trip: Thursday, October 29. All Senior adults are invited to Bearcreek Farms for the Fall Gospel Concert. $25 includes the chartered bus, concert ticket and meal. Spots are limited. For reservations contact Karen Zierer at (765) 643-5637.
Singles Ministries
For more information, contact Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- Singles Walk: Saturdays, 9:00am at Shadyside Park. All singles are invited to walk with the Single Among Friends Small Group every Saturday. Meet in the Shadyside parking lot off Cross Street. Contact: Nancy Bitner (765) 649-01928.
- Singles Hangout Night: Saturday, July 18, 7:00-9:00pm in the Hospitality Room. All singles are invited to a night of fun, games and fellowship. Bring a snack and game to share.
Student Ministries
For more information, contact Gretchen Olson, Junior High Ministries Pastor.
Combined Junior High and Senior High Ministries:
- Wednesdays in Crossroads Auditorium: 6:30-7:45pm – Activities to intentionally build community.
- July 8 – Water War
- July 15 – The Hunt
- July 22 -
- July 29 – All Church Picnic
- Sunday Mornings at Crossroads Auditorium: 9:00-10:15am – Deeper learning experiences in God’s Word.
- Junior High Summer Trip: July 17-19 to Lake Placid, Indiana. (For grade 5 graduates through grade 7 graduates.)
Childen’s Ministries
For more information, contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.
- Wonderful Wednesday Hallelujah Hoopla! 6:30-7:45pm in the Children’s Center. Fun, exciting Nights.
- July 8 – Wet-n-Wild Water Wednesday
- July 15 – Movie Night: Bring your Buddy to BOLT
Opportunities to Serve
To find a place to volunteer, contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
- Children’s Ministries Volunteers Needed: You don’t have to be a parent to make a difference in Children’s Ministries! High School students, college students, grandparents and friends make great helpers. Anyone interested in connecting, growing and serving, contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.
Employment Opportunities
- Early Childhood Coordinator: MPC Children’s Ministries is seeking to fill the open position of Early Childhood Coordinator – children birth through Kindergarten. This is a paid part-time (20-25 hours per week) position. For more information contact: Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.
Good To Know
- Online Giving: Financial contributions to MPC’s general fund may now be given online. Visit MadisonParkChurch.org and click on the Give tab in the navigation bar. MasterCard, Visa, Discover and electronic checks are accepted. Contact: Rob Spaulding, Business Administrator.
- African Children’s Choir: Sunday, July12, 6:00pm at Bethany Christian Church
- Anderson University Alumni and Friends Special Events:
- Ice Cream & Movie in the Park: Friday, July 24, 8:00pm at Shady Side Park Main shelter house on Broadway. The whole family will enjoy a great evening outdoors with free ice cream and the movie “Monsters vs. Aliens.”
- AU Alumni Night at Symphony on the Prairie Featuring Michael Cavanaugh and the music of Billy Joel: Saturday, July 25. Gates open at 6:00pm, concert at 8:00pm at Conner Prairie. Cost: $15 per person, tickets are limited.
- To register for these events contact the Alumni Office at (765) 641-4100, alumni@anderson.edu or www.anderson.edu/alumni .
Family News
To submit a threads announcement a birth or death, please contact Pastoral Care.
Congratulations to:
- Tim and Angie Warrum, who welcomed a granddaughter, Caitlyn Marie Kennedy on May 25. Proud parents are Grant and Nicole.
- Correction: Maurice and Arlene Haas, who welcomed a son, Ethan Mykal Eli on June 4. Proud grandparents are Maurice and Mavis. Ethan is welcomed home by big sister Mauriell.
- Tim and Angie Warrum, who welcomed another granddaughter, Cali Ann Petty on June 10. Proud parents are Chris and Tracey.
- Stephen and Barb Schuyler, who welcomed a grandson, Holden Clarke on June 16. Proud parents are Adam and Kelly.
- Tim and Temple Miller, who welcomed a grandson, Jaxin James Simpson on June 18.Proud parents are Matt andTonia. Jaxin is welcomed home by big sister Paija.
- Bill and Carolyn Hall, who welcomed a great-grandson, Aiden James on June 26. Proud parents are Kristin and Sean.
In Sympathy with:
- Terry Ball and family at the loss of his father, Dallas on June 29.
Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and mini-salad bar in The Commons: Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 6:30pm, just before our evening programs. Cost: Adults-$6, Children and college Students (with ID)-$4 (maximum of $22 per family).
- July 8 – Barbecue Chicken // Kids Option: Chicken Fingers and Fries
- July 15 – Southwest Chicken Salad // Kids Option: Nachos
- July 22 – Pulled Pork Barbecue Sandwiches // Kids Option: Pizza
- July 29 – Hamburgers and Homemade Potato Salad // Kids Option: Hot Dogs
