Steve Van Diest

New Blog Design

2008-02-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

If you made it to this address and noticed that I have posted in a while it is because I have moved my blog over temporarily to a new design. The temporary may be permanent. We'll see how this flies. My new design can be found at SteveVanDiest

Categories: Blog

Warren and Colbert - pretty good

2008-02-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

Watched this morning and I thought this was great.

Enjoy!

Categories: God, Culture

Men get 41 miles per gallon. Not Bad!

2008-01-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

During this oil consuming generation and high gas prices this recent stat I got from my good friend, Joe, was super encouraging.

A recent study found that the average American male walks 900 miles per year.
Another study found that the average American male drinks an average of 22 gallons of beer per year.
That means that the average American male gets approximately 41 miles per gallon.
That's not bad.

Categories: Culture

The Gospel in Its Fullness

2008-01-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

Today I have spent some time reading UnChristian by Kinnaman and Lyons. In response to the the chapter that outsiders think all we, Christians, want is to get them saved, Chuck Colsen wrote this, The Gospel in its Fullness, response to help us change our perception. p. 86-88.

"The good news is summarized in I Corinthians 15: "Christ died on the cross for our sins," so that we can be redeemed. That is the narrow definition that most evangelicals embrace. I think we are wrong in limiting it to that. If you read the first twenty-seven words Jesus spoke in Mark, it's clear that he announced the kingdom. He said that the kingdom of God has broken through into history. He was saying that we would be seeing in his life a picture of the kingdom yet to come. It is a picture of what hte Hebrews called shalom, or peace, or wholeness, extending to every facet of life: the sick healed, the captives freed, the oppressed released, right relationships restored with God and humanity.

Then later, in Acts 4, you see this incredible story of the community of believers coming together. No one was in need because people were sharing their wealth; they were praying and studying the Bible. They created a community that absolutely dazzled the world right after the time of Jesus. They provided a foretaste of the kingdom yet to come in Revelation 22 and 23.

So, I'm one of those who believes that while the gospel is most accurately defined by evangelicals as the "good news," it goes beyond that. For instance, Catholics take it beyond that. The defense of human life is part of the gospel because it matters greatly to God. I think Catholics have a really good point in this. When we think about Jesus ushering in the kingdom, as we pray, by the way, "thy kingdom come, they will be done on earth as it is in heaven," I think we begin to see the gospel in a much broader context.

The local church has to be responsible for "making the invisible kingdom visible," as Calvin said. When the local church is doing what the church is called to do--preaching the gospel, administering the sacraments, and exercising discipline--inevitably the surround culture will be affected. In other words, if we are really living as Christians, the church expands exponentially.

Consider the rise of Christians during the Roman era. People were drawn to Christians, not because of evangelistic outreaches or crusades, or through mass media--those didn't exist. The church grew because Christians were doing the gospel and had a community--a local church--where people really loved each other. During the great plagues that swept Rome in the second century, all the doctors fled, but the Christians stayed and took care of the sick. They embodied what Christians are called to do. Although many Christians died because they took cared of the sick, pagans were drawn to Christ because they saw both the love of Christians and Christianity itself as a better way of life. When Constantine declared Rome the Holy Roman Empire, people thought he did that for political reasons, but he didn't It was already Christianized; he just recognized the realities of what really happened.

One of the things I do when I meet people is ask them, "What is Christianity?" Undoubtedly half will respond, "A relationship with Jesus."

That is wrong. The gospel cannot be merely a private transaction. God didn't break through history, through time and space, to come as a babe, be incarnated, and suffer on the cross just so you can come to him and say, "Oh, I accept Jesus and now I can live happily ever after." That's not why he came...Jesus came as a radical to turn the world upside down. When we believe it is just about Jesus and yourself, we miss the whole point.

I even dislike using the words "accept Christ" anymore--because it is so much more than that. Christianity is a way of seeing all of life and reality through God's eyes. That is what Christianity is: a world-view, a system, and a way of life. I believe that when you truly see the gospel in its fullness, it's so much more. It is the most exciting, radical revolutionary story every told." Chuck Colson - founder, Prison Fellowship Ministries

When I use terms of doing Kingdom work, Chuck Colson helps define this so well. When I think of lives transformed by the gospel I don't think tickets to heaven but those here on earth that are being transformed by Jesus to bring the Kingdom, heaven to earth.

This is what we're praying for to happen in our communities, lives, ministry.

"Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Jesus

Categories: Gospel, Kingdom, God, Spirituality, Evangelism

And the Shofar Blew

2008-01-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm finally coming out of the closet. I love Francine Rivers' books. Yes, she is a woman. Yes, she writes Christian fiction. But man she is a prophetic voice we all need in our lives, churches and leadership. Last year I read Redeeming Love and was rocked by God's desire for love. This past month I finished And the Shofar Blew.

I was convicted and my deepest level about my own leadership in the past. I can't give away the story line but I will tell you if you're currently in a ministry, leading a church, building a program you must read this.

Ask the Lord to show you where you are missing His heart for people, your family and Him.

In summary, my review is short. It will make you angry at yourself, the pastor in the book, church but at the same time in love with the work God does in leaders, churches and in your own heart. A must read.

Now I'm going back in the closet and will try to read some more manly non fiction book. :)
Categories: Leadership, Church, Books

Is There Hope for America?

2008-01-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

The past 4-5 years I have been reading about the work God is doing worldwide through simple and traditional church planting. There are encouraging stories and discouraging ones alike. One of the reasons we felt like God calling us to Mexico 2 years ago was the stories of what God was doing in Latin America and we wanted to be part of it. God had a different plan for us and we're grateful for the hard lessons learned and taught.

Now that we're back in the U.S. we have focused much of our thoughts, prayers and energy into what God is doing in the U.S. and what are we, the church, missing.

Recently I started reading, thanks to my local library, Kinnaman and Lyon's book called UnChristian. It is the summary of 3 years of research on what the rest of the world thinks of church and Christians.

Our research shows that many of those outside of Christianity, especially younger adults, have little trust in the Christian faith, and esteem for the lifestyle of Christ followers is quickly fading among outsiders. They admit their emotional and intellectual barriers go up when they are around Christians, and they reject Jesus because they feel rejected by Christians. p. 11

It has been humbling and heart breaking to read their thoughts and how we are missing the point of Jesus.

Today I was reading Guy Muse's blog The M Blog and again my heart is heavy by some of the stats and observations of what is happening in the U.S. church. Read What's Wrong With This Picture?

In hindsight I'm glad the Lord brought us home to relearn His grace, mercy and Gospel. And I'm thankful for the new vision and heart He has given us for His church here in the U.S. I know there are many arguments and discussions on what is and isn't church but after those interactions all I think about is how much people, outside any form of church, are missing when they don't experience the love, grace and mercy of God. The rest of the world is looking for something, something that isn't just about words, theology, right thinking or saying yes to Jesus. They want a life that is transformed, supernatural, powerful, dealing with the wrongs and hurts, they want real relationships, authenticity, care and love. What they are looking for is what Jesus offered in the Gospels, not just in words, but in life lived in community. They want to experience the Kingdom Come.

I don't have all the answers but I do know when I see something in me, my past leadership, and in other leadership when we have missed the point. I was also reading Sam Metcalf's blog Under the IceBerg today about how to kill a movement. Here are a few things that kill movements and I will add supernatural kingdom church growth:
1. Require education for the leadership
2. Demand conformity of methodology
3. Refuse to provide administrative help and let it suffocate under it’s own weight
4. Get spooked by supernatural phenomena outside your paradigm
5. Make no room for younger, less experienced leadership
6. Be obsessed by theological purity
7. Put the safety of the people involved as a higher priority than sacrifice
8. Centralize the funding
9. Punish out-of-the box thinking

I can relate to these. I have led this way and have experienced some of these from others. Read the whole thing at How to Kill a Movement. Maybe a new movement of the Spirit, Church, and Jesus Followers is birthing that will do the opposite; bring about Jesus' Kingdom.

Now that I have broken every blog rule and have posted way too many thoughts in one post I leave us with an action point. Pray and seek the God of the universe to help all of us see clearly on how He wants us to move here in America.
Categories: Church, Movements, Leadership, God, Prayer

Organic Church Movements

2008-01-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

In February, Christine and I, are heading to Ontario, CA for a short weekend to spend time with the CMA guys and gals who are training many on Missional Movements. We want to invite you to come, be part of the training and then trust God with what He wants you to do. You can find more info at CMA Resources.

Categories: ChurchPlanting, Movements, Leadership

Planting Trees

2008-01-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

Been thinking about our future lately. This past week we closed our official chapter of Campus Crusade, at the Denver Christmas Conference, but will be relationally connected hopefully with those wonderful staff for a lifetime. My normal temptation is to start running full speed ahead, proving to others, that the work, future and ministry of ours is worthy to be spoken of. Yet, deep in my soul I know I should rest, wait on the Lord and ask Him to reveal exactly what He wants us to do to bring glory to Him.

A few weeks ago I had cafe with my good friend, Jeff Westrup, in California. Jeff started me on a journey of the heart about 5 years ago. I value his insights, fresh take on spirituality and encouragement to listen to God. He sent me a link to read a story written Jean Giono, The Man Who Planted Trees. Tonight I read it to my older boys and was encouraged by the story, real or fictional.

I was struck by the perseverance, simple vision to bless others and do the work that God had called the old man to. He wasn't about creating his own kingdom, seeking approval of others, or praise for his greatness. He knew the work he was doing would take a lifetime but it would refresh this barren land. Inspiring.

I too want to be about the simple work of blessing others, bringing glory to God, doing what He and only He calls me to. Read it. Ponder it. Reflect on what God is calling you to do for HIS glory
Categories: Spirituality, Movements

Global Service Associates

2008-01-07T10:27:00.000-07:00

Crossing Boundaries and cultural barriers with the powerful life-changing message of Jesus.

If you have a child, grandchild or a good friend or colleague that grew up in church, youth group or a campus ministry but today they are not involved in church or following Jesus then you’re not alone. A large majority of the 20 and 30 somethings are saying no to church and walking with Jesus. You probably spent numerous hours on your knees for them and inviting them to church. But it seems they are not interested.

This current reality of young people breaks our hearts. We believe God is calling us to create, innovate and form new missional (going out with the message of Jesus) communities that will help our culture experience Jesus in a manner that relates to them and helps them see Jesus as the sustenance for life.

“According to research by George Barna, there is not one county in the U.S. that is currently experiencing overall growth in the number of Christians.” Felicity Dale

18 years ago Global Service Associates was formed to help Christian leaders follow the call of God on their hearts to expand the Kingdom of God to reach each and every person on the globe. Their desire was to provide an environment for Christian leaders where bold faith, creativity, deep relationships and new initiatives to share Christ would be honored and encouraged.

We are so blessed to have GSA give us the opportunity to lead and follow God to reach people in the gaps where they are not experiencing His love. We are excited to trust God with a ministry of simple Biblical methods to equip others to follow Jesus and to reach people with the Gospel. You can read more about GSA at their new website GSA along with bios of other staff members and some of their projects. GSA is a 501-c3 religious non-profit and governed by a board of directors. We hold to the historic creeds, The Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed. Please post a comment if you have more questions.

For those of you who financially support us and that we have talked to this past month during our transition; thank you for your encouragement and continued partnership. Pray for us as we move forward in solidifying our final 30% of financial support. If you would like to support us prayerfully and financially please email us or visit our giving page at Giving

Pray for a deep work by God in us personally so that we will share this love with others. Thank you for your partnership in serving with us to bring about God’s Kingdom.
Categories: Prayer, Newsletter, GSA, Movements

Kingdom Signposts: Pointing People to Jesus

2008-01-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

“Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into the harvest field.” Luke 10:2b

Every morning our cell phone alarm goes off at 10:02 am reminding us to pray this simple prayer of Jesus.

We believe that within minutes from every home, community, workplace and social network God is raising up men and women who will be a leader, a worker for Christ. Our dream and prayer is to see Kingdom Signposts (our new initiative), planted firmly in the ground so that people around the world know where to look for God and go to experience His love. This Kingdom Signpost could be a Bible study, a mom’s play group, a service project, a discipleship relationship, or prayer group.

Even today, for example, I met a pastor in Denver who is a leader of a 40 church alliance. He was referred to us and is wanting help to see how they can train and send out their youth to be workers for Christ in Colorado. Our prayer is to empower him and other believers to share Christ, disciple others, and create ministries out of their churches, homes and workplaces that point people to Christ. It is believing God for a generation of lay people who reach others for Christ and grow in their faith.

We will create a collaborative work of evangelism and discipleship with local churches and ministries and then these Kingdom Signpost leaders will build movements according to their unique gifting and calling. The Kingdom Signposts may not all look alike. Yet each will reflect core values of connecting our ever changing generation to Jesus, providing life changing discipleship, producing multiplying laborers and helping people grow in intimacy with Jesus.

A movement of Kingdom Signposts planted firmly in the ground all over our world giving people an opportunity to experience God’s Kingdom. Pray for our leadership as we connect with churches, ministries and those who don’t know Jesus. Pray with us this Luke 10:2b prayer so that the Spirit of God raises up a radical movement of Christians to be leaders for Jesus.
Categories: Prayer, Newsletter, KingdomSignposts, Kingdom, Movements

Project Revive

2008-01-07T10:18:00.001-07:00

“...the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1

Our cities and communities are full of people who are hurting, lost, lonely and needing the hands and feet of Jesus to bring about real transformation in their lives. Jesus desires to meet those needs with His love. Often until those needs are met the people living in our communities dismiss the message of Jesus.

Project Revive is an initiative that believes that the love of Jesus is expressed when the church locks arms together and commits to meeting the needs around them, spiritual and physical. We are giving leadership to this project to aid the renovation and renewal of our cities so that men and women from all walks of life experience God’s love.

Can you imagine churches, non-Christians, businesses, and non-profits all working together to help those in need? We can and that is why in the months to come we’ll be starting a network and partnership organization that will be a catalyst for this city-wide transformation. Pray for us as we connect with civil, church and social leaders to build relationships and opportunities to connect them to those in need.
Categories: ProjectRevive, Movements, Kingdom,
Prayer, Newsletter

Global Service Associates

2007-12-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

I want to write and share our beta website that is partially up and running for Global Service Associates. It will come into fruition in the months to come.

You can click around to see some of the initiatives that the staff members are taking part of.
Global Service Associates

Categories: GSA

Only God Can Do This....

2007-12-12T07:37:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking and reflecting a bunch on the power of God, His Grace, His desire to bless us and move in our lives. Last week in the midst of my cancer scare I had lunch with one of the most non-religious spiritual Jesus loving people I know, Tom, my dentist. We went out to lunch last week after he put my good looking gold crown on.

We were talking all about the changes in either of our lives, the presence of God and His church. Tom asked me if I ever tried to catch a butterfly without a net. I said, "No." He was teaching his kids this past summer and as you probably know, it is nearly impossible, except for maybe Mr. Miagi from Karate Kid. The key is that don't go and try to catch it but just sit still and let it land on you. The point he was making for my life is to stop trying to control, catch, create, manufacture what God can only do. Rest, be still, wait and let God do the healing, creating, birthing and moving in and around my life. That is exactly what I needed to know.

The previous night I was meeting with another non-religious spiritual Jesus loving Friend, Andy, over an adult beverage in Longmont. I love Andy's chaotic faith filled life. A year ago he quit his job, adopted 2 twin African American premies, that makes 6 kids in his house under 7. He was sharing with me the powerful year it has been. Turning down jobs, seeing God move, touching his family and blessing them. It increased my faith a ton.

Much of what I'm pondering and thinking about in our own lives, marriage, family and ministry has been about the real power of God. For so long, tied to my performance issues, I have worked hard for God, producing great results, becoming addicted to them, looking for praise and honor from friends, donors and family. I have done the tried and true strategies that I know with my power, strength and energy will yield great God results. The bummer is that in hind site it doesn't feel like God is moving at all. I'm begging God to bless me, move around me, do something supernatural but I'm unwilling to sit, wait and listen for God to show up.

Starting over in life, marriage and ministry gives us a great opportunity to create a new value system of living, loving and serving. Realizing that my issues are still tucked away in the corners of my heart, we're begging God to shed His grace on us. We need a new and fresh way of living and serving. We want to see the supernatural, not the natural.

Andy sent me this great article from a pastor of a church called, Time Square Church. It is well worth the read.

Maybe all we need is a great big push to move from the Natural to the Supernatural.

Categories: Church, Faith, God, Leadership, Spirituality

Healing

2007-12-08T17:43:00.000-07:00

The past couple of days have been emotional whirlwinds for us since hearing my biopsy was melanoma.

Friday afternoon on the way back from Boulder area my Dr. called and told me he had great news. The skin cancer experts in Denver said that my biopsy wasn't cancer. My Dr. was excited and so was I. I didn't know what was the deal between the first pathology report that stated I had malignant melanoma and this secondary lab other than to say that Jesus healed me.

I was told that I had severely dysplastic nevus - pre melanoma. It was a-typical melanocytic poliferation. Yes, there might be spelling mistakes, but it wouldn't matter anyway. I don't know what those words mean except I don't have cancer. I don't need further test. I have a clean bill of health.

The Lord has taught us a ton this past week and year. He heals, He restores, He makes new all things. We fell deeper in love and trust of Jesus this week.

Thank for praying. I believe God performed a supernatural miracle.

Categories: Family, Prayer

Malignant Melanoma

2007-12-06T18:38:00.000-07:00

Last night my Dr. called Christine and told her that my biopsy from a mole this previous week came back positive for malignant melanoma. As you can imagine I have been in shock all day long. The pathology reported at first said that the surrounding tissue was clear and that the cancer hasn't entered the dermis tissue. That is good. My biopsy was sent today to the leading skin cancer Dr. who happens to be in Denver. The next stage is to follow his advice. If the cancer cells have entered deeper tissue then we'll cut out more skin. At that point we'll go through CT scans, bone scans, etc. The best case is that it was localized and we caught it early.

It has been an up and down emotional day and week. Rich Lotterhos a fellow member, director of Global Service Associates and dear friend called just to see how I was doing. I shared all of it. The hope for the future, tension and anxiety of transitioning to a new ministry and now this news of cancer. Immediately he reminded me that Satan wants to take Christine and I out. I know and believe God has a plan but I am sure tired of Satan's attacks.

We know God has been with us all along. If we were still living in Mexico City I would have not had a physical. And because of our leaving Campus Crusade I wanted to use our remaining health care wellness before Dec 31st, therefore my physical.

Pray for us. Pray for complete healing and that the biopsy this past week cut away all the cancer cells. Pray for us emotionally and physically. We are spent. Pray for us spiritually. We are crying out to the Lord for help. He is the only place we can go.

Thanks!!

Steve
Categories: Family, Prayer

People Being the Gospel

2007-11-24T09:12:00.000-07:00

I think a ton about people being the Gospel to others; loving, sharing, sacrificing, forgiving, showing mercy and bringing life. Not that I have figured it completely out in my own life but isn't that why I, you, we need the Gospel daily?

I love the Liberty Mutual commercials that have been blessing the TV airways.

When you watch these, ask yourself, what would it take for a follower of Jesus movement to look and act like this? Maybe we need to ask the question, what would it look like if followers of Jesus to even act like this, not what would it take? This might give us a vision for the simplicity and impact Jesus could make on a movement. Simple truths and experiences of Jesus passed onto others. Could it be the greatest movements throughout history didn't require high programs, tons of strategic plans, and high paid full time workers.

Enjoy and no be the Gospel to those around you.

Categories: Movements, Gospel, Culture, Media

The Cemetery Experience Keeps Giving

2007-11-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

There was about 6-7 years in a row I would take college freshmen at CU to the great, old cemetery on the hill in Boulder. I would have them wander around in the dark, no flash lights looking at tombstones, the old cool ones, for someone who died when they were 18-20. Then we would speculate about their lives, relationships, dreams and experiences. Then we would open up the Word and see what God's perspective was on life, the shortness of life and what we could be living for that had an impact on eternity.

Today I received an email from Ox, Bryan Gullette, a great young warrior who is loving Jesus, loving others in Romania along with his wife, Alina. They are hereos of the faith after working for a few years, packed up and left for Eastern Europe to love others like Jesus does.

Here is his email. It was an encouragement to me today.

Hi Steve,

I hope all is well. I thought that you might be
interested to hear about how your influence has reached to Romania.
Tonight I led a small group of abandoned Romanian teenage boys to a cemetery to
talk about making life count, like we did for Bible study one night. “It
was classic” and I hope it’ll “change their lives, bro!” * Ah the
memories. Thanks for being an important part of my life, Steve.

As great as the legacy is that you left with Crusade, I pray that
it can’t hold a candle to what the Lord is prepared to do in this next area of
ministry. I am sure that it will look totally different, but I expect
amazing things to come of it. I hope the transition is going well.
If you just remember all the things you taught us, you should be
fine.

I also pray that all is well on the home front with your… is
it 18 kids now? Growing the kingdom one child at a time! Awesome! I
am excited about your family and your kids and I pray that they bring you much
joy and fulfillment. I ask God also for His special blessing on your marriage,
that it would be the firm foundation of love overflowing to the children and the
church and the world. Yeah, I know, it sounds like a lot of love, but we
know it is just a drop of what the Lord offers to us.

Take care,
Steve, say “hi” to everyone for Alina and I.

Bryan

Categories: God, Community

Starting a House Church

2007-11-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

It was about 5 weeks ago I finished a new copy of my local library's book of Starting a House Church by Larry Kreider and Floyd McClung. A few years ago I read Kreider's book called House Church Networks: A Church for a New Generation and I remember that he gave a great balanced approach to Mega-church, community church and simple/home church. I felt like he wasn't attacking traditional forms of church but offering a new approach to church to compliment others. Since I had a good experience with him, I wanted to read this recent book since we have ventured out to start a home church.

For a couple of years in ministry I had been searching for the 'golden goose egg' in ministry that will solve all our problems. I would think, "If we just have this new technique, strategy, formula then we'll be an explosive, life changing ministry." What I realized about 2 years ago is there isn't a golden goose egg of ministry, other than what God desires to do through Christians; hearing and following the will of God. If you do take a look at New Testament Movements they were all pretty simple. Run by normal, unschooled men and women. They were bold, courageous, believed in a real Jesus, God and Holy Spirit that spoke, answered prayers and moved mountains. They didn't have church growth seminars or massive discipleship programs. They loved people and talked about the love of Jesus that changed lives. They brought Jesus to the streets and encouraged people to bring Jesus farther into their homes, business and yes, even bars.

After reading this book I was encouraged and reminded again how simple doing church is. We have made it pretty complicated. Normally today, in order to get more of Jesus, we need seminary trained teachers, buildings organized in way that maximizes the church experience, big amps and big bands, videos, youth and child-care centers and massive parking lots; all this to allow us to worship God who is a personal, communal, intimate God that is known through the Holy Spirit, His Word, and fellowship of 2 or more believers.

This is what we want to be about. Making Jesus known in homes, streets, workplaces, parks and bars. As Neil Cole says, "lowering the bar on church and raising the bar on discipleship." Let's teach people to follow Jesus and then they'll see how simple church is. Yes, I still believe church is a tool that God is using to make himself known to the world. Yes, church is Biblical. My thought is that the way we have known church the last 20, 200, and 2000 years is changing, morphing and adapting to meet those that want to know an unchanging, unmorphing powerful, intimate God. There are many forms of church and church is ecclesia, meaning "called out ones." Isn't church just the gathering of 2 or more believers, regardless of the structure, setting and education level of those leading?

I appreciate the vision, passion and heart of Kreider and McClung. They have been part of some pretty radical churches, big and small, traditional and non-traditional, throughout the years. They encourage the 'chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation a people belonging to God' to just go out and be church, not just attend one. Yes, they have an apologetic, how to's and questions you may have as to why simple/home church is uniquely platformed to reach this new generation of not-yet-Christians. But why is that all that bad? New forms, new wine skins to go out and love a lost and hurting world with the message of Jesus. I think the dream of many today is that we'll look across this planet and see many types of churches, some with huge steeples, others small and with a run down look and others you can't visibly see because they're hanging out gathering in homes and stores.

Here are some quotes:

Could it be that God wants to change everything about how we view the church? He has created the church to be a dynamic, growing, changing movement, not a static doctrine. The Spirit of God calls each generation to re-imagine church for its own context and culture. The Holy Spirit invites every generation into the struggle to discover answers and approaches for themselves about church--answers that bring them into fresh partnership whith God and fresh contact with their culture. p. 17

We believe that simple, small, non-building oriented, non-professional led, family based communities are some of the keys for re-evangelizing our nation. p. 30

House church networks reproduce churches rapidly because the micro church model lends itself to more authentic relational connections, deeper and more natural discipleship accountability, quick reproduction of leaders and every member involvment. p. 33

Rich Joyner says, "Pastors sometimes don't like having young stallions in their church. They seem to cause too many problems. But only young stallions can reproduce. Resist the temptation to 'fix' them so they cannot reproduce." p. 83

The goal of leadership is to facilitate, release and encourage. p. 95

Go start and be the church!

Categories: God, Movements, Leadership, Books, SimpleChurch

Business and Mission

2007-11-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Texas last night to visit Christine's sister and her family down in Waco. Yep, we're heading down to the Waco for a great Thanksgiving day and some wonderful Mexico Thanksgiving food her aunts make. Hmmm, I can't wait.

Today it has been great seeing the kids play with their cousins. I have been sitting around reading. A few weeks ago I received the Mission Frontiers Magazine. The whole issue is about Business and Mission. I am a coming out of the closet leader who would love to be in business and tie it into restoring our communities.

I have been thinking for some time now of opening up a laundry matt in Denver. I heard that Tony Campolo, not confirmed, has a bunch of these in Philedelphia. I would love to open up a bunch of these off Colfax and other places that are in need. My desire would be to make them break a small profit, throw it back into the business, make them the lowest cost laundry matts in town with a staff that loves, cares, listens and prays for the customers. Make it a place where people can be refreshed from the hardships of life while sitting around waiting for their skivies are drying. Who knows if this is even a viable plan?

I would love to create a business where lives are changed, a real service is offered and a model of business can be replicated by anyone. Could it be that business and mission are not oppossed to one another? Could it be that a profit could be made, a competitive edge could be kept and a service and blessing to a people is offered that allows for community restoration. Isn't that the way of the Kingdom?

One of the articles (go ahead and read the whole magazine at the above link) that challenged me was Over-steering a Cadillac. Click on the link and read it in pdf format.

If you're interested in partnering with me or have some capital you would like to invest, drop me a comment.

Categories: Missions, Business, Movements

Fall Photos are amazing

2007-11-11T16:02:00.000-07:00

I just spent today watching the Broncos win. Amazing! But not as amazing as these family shots at VanDiestClan

Categories: Family, Photos

A New Beginning

2007-11-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

We believe God is stirring a new movement of His Spirit that will provide a church in every community that transforms people, relationships and neighborhoods with the love and grace of God.

Wow! It has almost been one year since we came home from Mexico City. We are so grateful to God, our leadership and you for giving us this past year to rest, restore, recover, wait on the Lord and now hear from God as He is calling us forward, a new beginning.

After much prayer, counseling, meeting and processing with our leaders, pastors and good friends we have decided to transition off Campus Crusade for Christ staff and join full-time with another ministry called Global Service Associates (GSA). GSA’s purpose is to help launch us as leaders, care for us as followers of Jesus and encourage us to fulfill our mission and calling.

For 18 years (including our student years in college) we have seen God move, grow and challenge us and have enjoyed serving with Campus Crusade for Christ.

In this period of waiting and listening which has been so refreshing and also difficult we sense God leading us to help the local church impact our culture.

Imagine walking down your street and finding a church that felt more like an old friend than an old building. It is alive. It is real. The life of Jesus is bursting out beyond the church doors and into your community. The authenticity and love draws people to want to know this Jesus who changes lives.

A Christ-centered community that touches personally every home in Colorado, the U.S. and around the world.
Recently we began a home church and invited soccer friends and our neighbors. One neighbor, Rochelle shared her heart for her non-Christian coworkers. She wants to take them to church, yet they have no desire to go. After our time together sharing and praying she asked if this concept of home church was a safe place to invite her coworkers to hear about Jesus; a place where the life, love, and mercy of Jesus is felt.

We are burdened to follow God’s call on our hearts. We want to reach out to those hurting. Encourage those who have lost hope. Inspire Christians to follow Jesus and to be His hands and feet to our neighborhoods. Pray with us that God’s Spirit will move powerfully.
Categories: SimpleChurch, Family, Newsletters, Prayer, GSA, God

What does all this look like?

2007-11-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

We are transitioning off staff with Campus Crusade for Christ to GSA at the end of the month. You might have questions about our financial support, how you can stop your auto-payments (if applicable) and where to send your new financial support in December. Within two weeks you’ll be receiving a detailed letter explaining our monthly and end of year financial needs and the process on how to continue to partner with us. We will still be fully funded and paid for through monthly individual financial support. Therefore we still need your partnership of prayer, financial support and encouragement as we continue on in full-time ministry.

GSA is a non-profit religious order with a 501-3c status and will be processing all our administration, support, and your tax-deductions.

We plan on calling you if you are a financial partner after Thanksgiving to share in more depth about our new ministry. We look forward to connecting with you.

We cherish your prayers in this time of transition. Our hearts are full of gratitude for your partnership. Thank you for continuing to labor with us in giving every person an opportunity to be part of a life breathing Christ-centered community.

Categories: Prayer, Newsletters, Family, Ministry, God, GSA

Please Pray

2007-11-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Please Pray:

That God will be our guide in each step in the weeks to come. That we will trust Him and not our own efforts.
That God will protect us from the evil one that will be on the attack in our transition.
For our kids, time as a family and marital relationship.
That we will be sensitive to God’s work in our lives.
For our home church; its authenticity, love and mission to reach out to the lost.

Categories: God, Family, Prayer, Newsletters

Putting out a Fleece

2007-11-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

Wanted to ask you to pray for something. We're putting out a fleece before the Lord in regards to where we are living. We have so enjoyed Northern Colorado, Greeley and more specifically our neighborhood: The Arbors. Recently our good friends and neighbors have asked us to move to Denver to start some community and see what God has in store for ministry, church, etc. We're not sure what God has for us but we know we will miss their community and friendship as they have lived 3 houses away.

We are drawn to them, what God is doing in Denver and who knows; we stopped trying to control and figure out what we are doing and where we are living. This past year we have thrown our plans out for a plan of following God each step, day by day. This has been a hard lesson to learn.

So we're putting our home: 4360 W. 23rd Street Drive, Greeley, CO 80634 on the market. If you know of anyone who might be interested, toss them our way.

Categories: God, Prayer

So we'll see what God has for us.

The Call of the Entrepreneur

2007-10-26T17:04:00.000-06:00

My new friend, Jay Gary, posted this video clip on his site. I watched the trailer and it seems very interesting. I'm challenged by those who shape our culture, economics, politics and faith. I wonder who are the next that will shape and the way people experience Jesus.

Check out the trailer.

Categories: Culture, Leadership

Who and What is Going to Reach the Next Generation?

2007-10-25T09:21:00.001-06:00

This past Monday night I had dinner with some old and new friends, Rich Lotterhos, Don Wilcox, Shane Deike and Jay Gary. We had some great conversations about where we are at in church, mission and reaching the coming generations and most importantly where we are going to be; what is God going to create to reach the coming generations who will be mostly non-church going and ethnic.

I came across this video from a friend's site, Ethan Rietema. It got me thinking of the generations to come. Who is going to reach them? And with what new form is God going to touch their hearts? It seems to me they have already said 'no' to Jesus and the church. But I think their hearts are screaming for Jesus and a real, authentic, grace and loved filled community.

Check it out and put some thought and prayer on what you think God is going to do.

Categories: Kingdom, Movements, Culture

Who and What is G

2007-10-25T09:21:00.000-06:00

A Great Response!

2007-10-25T09:13:00.001-06:00

I came across this post about churches that are helping and responding to the wildfires. These responses have nothing to do with my post yesterday but I wanted to share the great opportunities for those of us who live far away from these fires.

Support these churches affected by the Wildfires

Categories: Kingdom, Church, Community, Prayer

Are we racing to help

2007-10-24T12:21:00.000-06:00

I caught this photo on Foxnews.com today and I have been thinking about the fires in So Cal. Yes, I have family living down there but they're in the middle of the concrete jungle, therefore, Safe.

The question that has been hitting me in regards to the church, ministries and the Christian body is "How fast and well are we racing to stop and help the affected by the inferno?" This cuts to the core of who I am, believe and do. In light of the Katrina mess, Thailand devastation and now this horrible disaster we have to think about how we are responding.

It doesn't matter if you're all about traditional church, big building, powerful programs or simple church, eating together, worshiping in your home and have no costs. It doesn't matter if the disaster hits poor countries, ethnic minorities in our south or rich countryside homeowners. It doesn't matter if you're a conservative or republican and are angry or happy in the way our government has and is responding. In stead of passing blame, worrying about who is going to teach our next Bible study, does our youth group room need a Nintendo WI or Xbox 360 to match their 5 flat panel TVs, or should our outreach flyers be in yellow or blue paper we should be spending our time, energy, money, time and talents as the body of Christ to plan, prepare and respond to the current tragedy or the one that will hit your community.

This hits me right to the deep of my heart and really tests what I believe about Jesus. If He really did come to give life, love and forgiveness to a lost and hurting world then how is that world experiencing Jesus through the Christians who hold His message tightly. We share it loudly on our streets and through our evangelistic booklets and preach it boldly in great 3 point sermons that challenge our allegiance to God yet I wonder if we're loving those who really need love. Can I believe and share the love of Christ in a language and with hands and feet that the world can hear and respond? Or is my message all about joining the holy club that thinks its theology is correct?

One of the areas I believe God is calling me to put forth my leadership efforts is to help the church (large and small), para church, and the informal body of Christ to be equipped, prepared and ready to help a world that really needs help; to help them in ways that really meet their physical needs. My guess, assumption and prayer is that if the world were to see the Church as the first ones on the ground (before the Red Cross), providing food, shelters, opening their homes and buildings, staying until the final moment, setting aside tons of cash to give freely all without the strings attached of "come to our worship service," WE MIGHT JUST SEE A RESPONSE TO JESUS LIKE NEVER BEFORE.

I really do believe that if we started raising money, setting aside building projects, calling our congregations and groups to action, and worry about sharing the Love of Christ with our hands and feet as well as our mouths the rest of the world, those who have already 'kissed us off' will respond with "who are these people and what do they believe?"

One of the issues our leadership team in Mexico City, Mexico talked about often was if we are launching hundreds of spiritual movements led by students yet they are not ready to respond to the physical needs of a hurting world, then are we relelvant? If we're planting hundreds of churches, big and small, yet not meeting the physical needs of those around us than are we really all that impacting? I guess Jesus modeled and answered this in feeding the 5,000 and on His Sermon on the Mount.

Lets start the race with fellow Christians to stop the inferno that is affecting people who need to be loved and cared for. Talk to you friends, congregations, small groups, and families about what you could do and then do it.

The American Red Cross Link to the Wildfire if you need it.

Categories: Community, Kingdom, Culture, Prayer, God, Movements, Church

Practical Atheism

2007-10-16T13:48:00.000-06:00

I have heard this term, Practical Atheism, in an article written by Craig Groeschel, often and relate to it, sadly, more than I want. I too am a current/recovering Practical Atheist. My biggest prayer now is that I have my one thing:

One thing I have asked of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life; to behold the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple. Ps 27:4

This is very difficult and often times I feel like, as I'm waiting on the Lord to do only what He can do and should do, I am a lazy Christian leader. Ouch. It took some serious pain, brokenness and time to reflect on my disease. Now I'm praying to God for a healing from this disease. He is the only one who can fix this. Maybe you're infected too.

Categories: God, Ministry, Spirituality

Take a Look at this!

2007-10-15T11:03:00.000-06:00

I just posted on our other site: VanDiestClan a whole bunch of cute shots of our family.

Enjoy

Categories: Family, Photos

Following the Person of Christ

2007-10-15T09:37:00.000-06:00

“Your salvation requires you to turn back to me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on me.”
Isaiah 30:15 (Message)

These past months have been so refreshing and enlightening in our own personal walks with Jesus. We have been reminded of the simplicity and power of just following Jesus; it is easy and light. In this past year we have seen God’s mercy and grace surface our own issues of performance and self worship. God showed us that often we seek strength in ourselves and efforts. We’re finding that as God’s power is made evident in our weakness we are experiencing a whole new intimacy with Jesus. We are seeing strength come from depending only on Him and being faithful to Him only.

“God does not demand that I be successful. God demands that I be
faithful. When facing God, results are not important. Faithfulness
is what is important.” Mother Theresa

We have been praying daily that God will lead us into deeper intimacy in following Jesus. Around every corner of following Him we are seeing new fruit produced in our lives and a passion to help others follow Him in this manner.

We are also seeing God use our greatest weaknesses and failures to be our greatest strengths to others. As we have shared our story of marriage struggles, moving home from our initiative in Mexico City and the realness of Jesus’ love and forgiveness we have seen others open up to us and God.

Three weeks ago a CU football player, Pat Deveny, who Steve had the opportunity to lead to Christ 2 years ago called and wanted to talk. Over lunch Steve shared our story of this past year. Pat began to share openly his struggles and a deeper desire to know Jesus. It is amazing to see God at work when we allow Him. Steve hasn’t seen Pat in about 1 1/2 years yet the Spirit of God does the work that we can’t even imagine to do.

Thank you for walking with us in this journey of following Jesus. We know that there are many great stories yet to be told. We are grateful that you are partnering with us in seeing God’s power unfold. Thank you for loving us!

Categories: God, Newsletters, family, spirituality, Newsletters, Movements, Kingdom

Needs all around us

2007-10-15T09:30:00.000-06:00

Living in Greeley, CO we have seen a whole different way of living. We are in a much smaller community than Mexico City (28 million) and Boulder/Denver (2 million) as Greeley has about 100,000 people, half of which are Hispanic. We have enjoyed the smell of cows, the open space and the lack of cars piling up in intersections.
Steve has been coaching the boys’ soccer and football teams and has been spending time at our local rec center getting to know the people of Greeley. They are no different from anyone else. They too have marriage problems. They also struggle in finding meaning in life. They too are busy hustling kids to and from school and practice.
Yet what we observed is that there are few ministries that are serving outside the walls of the Church. Boulder and Denver are such popular places to live that many ministries call these places home. Our hearts are broken for the families, youth and neighborhoods that are not targeted specifically to hear the message of Jesus.
We feel God is calling us to start some fresh ways of expressing the grace, mercy and love of God to our community. As we walk forward in this we ask that you pray for us, support us and challenge us to follow Christ more intimately. Join with us in praying that we can be a loving presence in Greeley.

Categories: God, Prayer, Newsletters, Family, Movements, Ministry, YouthSports, Community, Kingdom

Please Pray

2007-10-15T09:25:00.000-06:00

Please Pray:
· That we will wholeheartedly seek out the person of Jesus.
· That we will slow down to rest and allow God to speak to us.
· That we will model, teach and encourage our kids in following Jesus.
· That as God grows us we will be sensitive to loving and caring for those around us.
· That we will seek God for every detail, step and plan for our future.
· That God will protect us from the evil one who wishes to destroy our lives and relationships.

Categories: Newsletters, God, Prayer, Family

My Office Cubicle

2007-10-11T16:42:00.000-06:00

I know many people may relate to this wonderful song/video. I now can relate with my Boulder office job.

Categories: Music, Culture

Samson and the Pirate Monks

2007-10-06T15:59:00.000-06:00

A few months ago a good friend of mine, Kirk Adkinson of All Souls Church in Boulder, CO recommended that I go out and get Samson and the Pirate Monks. It took me awhile to have my library order/buy it for me because I kept forgetting the goofy title. If you read it you'll understand the title. But about 4 weeks ago I received one of my favorite phone calls, 2nd to the phone calls I receive from Christine, from my Weld Country Library. My book was in. They bought me a brand new copy to be finding its home forever in Farr Library; good tax money being spent.

The complete title is Samson and the Pirate Monks: calling men to authentic brotherhood by Nate Larkin. At the end of chapter 1, I was saying, "No way!" I was blown away by the realness, authenticity and candor of N. Larkin. I was hooked and ready to listen, learn and be changed.

If you're a man, then read it. No questions. Read this with a good buddy. Open your heart to the desire to be changed, transformed and to continue a journey of meeting with Jesus in a powerful community of men. This aint 'bout accountability, men's groups, rah rah tool time. Nate and his group of Pirate Monks paint a picture about real walking with Jesus that does change and transform your life.

This is one of the few books I didn't write down quotes. Sorry. I have photo copied stories because I don't want to miss the lessons and stories told.

I'm encouraging some of my friends to read this and prayerfully God will lead us to start a similar Samson Society. Go and get it.

Categories: Masculinity, God, Books, Spirituality, Movements

Prayer for the Van Diest

2007-10-06T15:56:00.000-06:00

Please Pray:
· Ultimately that God will lead us in our decisions & steps to a new future of ministry
· That as we serve God He would be our first love
· That we daily depend on God for the spiritual battle before us
· That God protects our family and keeps us healthy
· That God will make our hearts sensitive to the work of His Spirit around us
· That we will walk by faith, humbly serving others
· That as we move ahead we would do the internal work of rest & listening to God

Categories: Prayer, Family, God

Van Diest Happenings

2007-10-06T15:49:00.000-06:00

We’re still committed to the work of bringing Spiritual Movements everywhere yet we are confident God is calling us to bring them to everyone, not just college students. We’re hearing the call of God on our hearts and minds to venture out and bring the Gospel to our community. Many of you have been asking, what is next? Where will you serve? The answers to these questions and more are the being revealed to us every day and we’re leaning on God to make those things very clear. You can keep us in your prayers so that we will not move unless God calls, nudges and moves mightily.

We know that Kingdom work is not a solitary, individual act. We need each other, you, the body of Christ to walk with us in this journey. That has been very clear these past 10 months as you have stayed with us, gave us tons of time to process, restore, rest, hear from the Lord and move ahead by faith. We are so grateful for you. This past year has been difficult and trying in our lives yet we know the greatest days of serving God together are before us because of what God has done in our hearts through brokenness and falling on our faces before Him. We also know that these letters every month can’t explain all that is happening in our lives and ministry so we encourage you to visit our website: (New Address):www.stevevandiest.com which tracks almost daily as to what God is teaching us. Thank you for your love and encouragement!

You are a blessing to us.

Categories: God, Family, Newsletters

Spiritual Movements Everywhere

2007-10-06T15:45:00.000-06:00

For many years we have felt the call of God in our hearts and minds to launch, coach and train young, ordinary college students into starting and leading spiritual movements. We believe that is exactly what happened when Jesus sent off the 12 apostles after he ascended into heaven. They started a spiritual movement that was crazy for and crazy about Jesus Christ that penetrated every nook and cranny of the Middle East.

Today is no different. It was no different in Boulder, Mexico City and now in Greeley. God has taken us on an internal journey to grab our hearts, deal with our issues and restore our relationship. He cares more about what is going on inside of us than what we do for Him. We are so grateful for the grace God has given us these past 10 months in our lives and marriage.

God’s transformational work is so evident in our lives and in the community around us. We’ve seen God move in the soccer families we’ve met, the people at the gym, our neighbors and in our own hearts. We are trying to listen, walk by faith and respond to God’s Spirit.

Two weeks ago, Christine joined our good friend Emily on a local community college to see what God is already doing. They walked around the campus, sought God’s face and then just waited. It was powerful to see God use Jacob, our 4 month old, attracting others. While Christine was in the bathroom Jacob was doing the work of the Kingdom. People were being drawn to his cute smile. It is amazing when we allow God to work, He does. Christine and Emily met two women who were interested in starting a spiritual movement on their campus to reach other students. One was a mom of 2 kids who came to Christ 3 years ago and has a heart to reach others. The other gal was a young freshman. Amazing! God is already at work around us. He cares that we are experiencing Him and He will do the work of spiritual movements everywhere.

Categories: God, Family, Newsletters, Movements

The Inner Work of God

2007-10-03T10:04:00.000-06:00

The past 10 months in our lives we have been given a renewed and maybe even a completely new look on life and walking with God. I know that many things, activities, idols, relationships, ministries we were part of have been stripped away and have been rebirthed and some have been removed. Thank God!

We would call this the Inner Work of God that He is doing on us. This is much harder, more painful, emotional yet rewarding and joyous than any other type of work we have done for or with God. It goes down deep to the core of who we are, what we value, where we find our significance, to our inner wounds, those things and people we worship. The words of our counselor, Michael Cusick of Restoring the Soul, from day 1 of our intensive counseling session back in December of 2006 still ring as hopeful and encouraging to my heart, "You old marriage is gone and done, your new one is starting today." I would even go farther and say that our old way of living, relating, doing ministry and knowing God is gone and done and our new way of being and doing is starting today. That is really what we have experienced the past 10 months. Rebirthing a whole new outlook on God and life; at times painful but also super refreshing.

Lately we have been encouraged and challenged by a book called The Celtic Daily Prayer of the Northumbria Community (all found online). John Lamb recommended it to me as I have been tossing around and chewing on the ideas of Daily Office and Sabbath. Christine and I when together and apart read the morning prayer, read the devotionals and meditations. We're trusting that God will bring a rhythm to the way we interact with Him, not just a religious experience. I realize more and more that I'm honest with myself that I don't have a lot to offer God in the spiritual disciplines. Most of the time it requires all I have to wake up in the morning and not be a mean, selfish, stubborn Dutch pain the you know what to my family and everyone around me. I need something to grab my heart and mind and I trust the Holy Spirit will connect me to something much deeper and grandiose that I can attain on my own. I also realize the hardness of my own heart that even if I connect with God in the morning, I soon am running on my own a few hours later. The daily office that we have been practicing is our attempt to walk, live, think, relate and practice the presence of God.

Each morning on my hour long drive to Boulder, CO I also read, meditate and relate to God via a Daily Prayer found on John Eldridge's site, Ransomed Heart (click on Going Deeper and then Prayers) or here. This has also been very helpful in grabbing my heart, centering my affections and reminding me of a great Saviour.

Yesterday I read this from page 48 -Day 2 in the Celtic Daily Prayer,

There is a contemplative in all of us, almost strangled but still alive,
who craves quiet enjoyment of the Now, and longs to touch the seamless garment of silence which makes whole. Alan P. Tory
CARMELITE VOW: Let each stay in or near their own cell
meditating, day and night on the law of the Lord, and vigilant in prayer, unless
otherwise employed by the Holy Spirit.

and today from Day 3:

The Cry to God as 'Father' in the New Testament is not a calm acknowledgement of a universal truth about God's abstract fatherhood. It is the Child's cry out of a nightmare.
It is the cry of outrage, fear, shrinking away, when faced with the horror of the 'world' - yet not simply or exclusively protest, but trust as well.
'Abba Father' all things are possible
to Thee ... Rowan Williams

As you can see there are themes of doing the inner work of God before going out. This has been hard for me. I have either been trained or just lived the way of going out and then, if called or employed by the Holy Spirit to come in and rest. I want to make that vow my vow for life and ministry. I also see this cry of 'Father' so true. When we have come to grips with our inner being, the darkness of our own sin and evil, the ways of the world, this cry becomes a 'help me! I'm dying' cry to God.

Just some thoughts I have been noodling on lately.

Categories: God, Prayer, Spirituality

Rattles and Horsetooth Falls

2007-09-23T21:10:00.000-06:00

Today was a super fun day with the kids. We woke up this morning we woke up and made cinnamon rolls the kids love and then spent some time reading some prayers, talking, reading and sharing. It is exactly what our family needed; together time, centering time on Christ and then off to go hiking near Fort Collins. At times I think we're crazy for even attempting to go hiking with 4 kids yet the older boys do great. Isa walks maybe a total of 40 yards of the total 3 miles. She has me worked and rides on my shoulders singing the whole way.

After hanging out at the trailhead while Jacob got some early lunch, we strapped Jacob in his Baby Bjorn and we headed up for an easy 1.5 mile hike to Horsetooth Falls. Jonathan became our saftey guide and was very concerned for Mountain Lion, Bear and Rattle snack attacks (He read all the warning signs at the trail head.) Often I would get rebuked for walking 10 feet in front of the rest of the group.

We made it to the falls in about 45 minutes but to our dismay it was September dry. Booh! But there was a cool rock the kids all climbed and we took a great picture. Right after the picture Benjamin asked me what that noise was in the bushes. I just told him it was the wind in the bushes. He said, "No! I see a snake." Yep, he was right. About 3 feet away from my foot lay a Rattle Snake. As boys, we started throwing rocks at it so we could hear the rattler. Stine, about 30 feet away told us to stop and then we headed off back for the van. We all need safety warnings.

Benjamin was proud of saving my life and we have committed to studying in science tomorrow the affects, dangers and ins and outs of Rattle Snakes.

That is what a great day is all about. Falling in love with Jesus, connecting as a family and enjoying God's killer creation. AMEN!

Categories: God, Family

New Address for Blog

2007-09-20T14:21:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let you know that I have a new address for my blog. Not much of a change but it should be easier to remember.

I am now at www.SteveVanDiest.com

Our Photo web site has also been changed to: www.VanDiestClan.com

The old blogger addresses will still work too. Enjoy

Categories: Blog

What to do in Simple Church?

2007-09-15T15:51:00.000-06:00

I know from experience as I have tried to share God's vision for simple church so many questions about details have surfaced? What to do with kids? Who is going to lead worship or teach? I know that I haven't really experienced much of the answers or even have them in my brain, but I do know why I believe God is calling Christine and I to start a simple church; to reach those people who are yet to know Christ and His community. That is so much of our desire and prayers lately yet we're waiting for the Lord's word of 'yes, go now."

Today I came across a simple 20-25 minute video that answers much of the heart and details behind simple church. This may help you too in your journey of seeing how God is calling you to 'do' and 'be' the church.

Video: When you come together.

There is a great description in words at What do we mean by simple Church?

Categories: Church, SimpleChurch, ChurchPlanting, God

This Beautiful Mess

2007-09-14T15:28:00.000-06:00

This past summer a good friend of mine, Eric Heistand, recommended I read Rick McKinley's, of Imago Dei, book: This Beautiful Mess: Practicing the Presence of the Kingdom of God. I finally got my library to buy it and I read it this past month. At first my mind was somewhere else but over time I really appreciated his approach, story telling and wisdom on the Kingdom work of God.

I believe a new form of Kingdom work is birthing in the U.S. and it isn't just a new strategy to reach out to people. I really do believe it will require a new way of thinking and living entirely. It is not just church in a new skin. It is a melding of a social gospel and a conservative gospel. It is the Kingdom as Jesus taught and lived the Kingdom.

One thing I caught from Rick's stories and examples is that he is a pastor/leader that really knows his vision and mission but gives away freely the strategies and methods for how people are going to do Kingdom work. If were were to bring an idea that God gave you, he wouldn't try to morph that idea or persuade you to fit it into a current structure. I picture him looking at you and blowing a strong Spirit filled wind under your wings and telling you to go, trust God, take a step of faith and we'll, the church, will encourage you along the way. It doesn't seem to be about Rick's church growth or kingdom but really about transforming his city, Portland.

Here are a few things that stuck out in my mind and heart while reading it.

In our kingdom, we begin to believe we can fix all our messes. In Jesus' Kingdom, He alone can start with our messes and accomplish something we never could have imagined. And He does. p. 21
To be human is to live with loose ends, with people and in a world of loose ends, feeling you've been made for perfection but knowing you can't get there on your own. Knowing that you've been placed here to bring a taste of something beautiful and blessed. p. 23
He has issues with our interpretation Gospel of the Kingdom: 1. We reduce the Gospel of the Kingdom (Its just the church). 2. We spiritualize the Gospel of the Kingdom (Its completely realized now). 3. We postpone the Gospel of the Kingdom (It will only be realized in Heaven). p. 38
The Kingdom is a lot less like building the business of Christianity and a lot more like slipping into the matrix of Jesus. p. 63
The Kingdom is, we are witnesses. p. 65
Signposts of the Kingdom radiate the most beauty when they're planted in the middle of the most mess. p. 92
The larger challenge we face today is that so many Evangelicals aren't really participating in creation at all. They're putting in their time as aliens in the natural world while they wait for the real show to begin: the Lord's return, Judgement, eternity. p. 120

I do believe as God reveals a new way of living, bringing about His glory, worshipping His fame, extending His love we must take a look at, ponder and change what it means to do the Kingdom work of Heaven. Then and only then can we say "This Beautiful Mess."

Categories: Books, Kingdom, Church, God

A bit of Heaven

2007-09-10T15:14:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a great day in the Van Diest family. Saturday night we went out to dinner with our friends, Rietemas (11 year anniversary) and the Williams. Amy Yablonski, our good friend, came over to hang out with us and watch our kids. So on Sunday morning we headed to Fort Collins to grab a great breakfast at Lucilles. No luck, 1 hour wait and we were all dying of hunger. So we headed over to the Rainbow Cafe and had a wonderful time.

Amy came out to Boulder, CO about 2 years ago after she graduated from Baylor to work with us on campus at CU. She has been a great friend and it was awesome to hear about what journey God has her on right now. This past summer she ended her time with Campus Crusade and is now working for Amali as a consultant. They do pr consulting, event planning, fundraising, media relations and so much more. It is super fun to see how God is using Amy to bless so many others in the non-profit world with her gifts and talents.

After we got home, I needed some couch and Broncos time. God bless DVR's. I can watch a game in about 2 hours. What a huge family blessing. Not only was the game watched quick but the Broncos won in the last second with a rushed field goal. We're not the Patriots but we are 1-0. During the last few minutes of fast-forwarding, Billy, my neighbor called and said get over to Mitch and Ming's (other neighbors). They had dumplings, beer, and great Korean ribs. My mouth started watering immediately. One of my best friends in high school, Frank, was Korean and I still remember the taste bud singing of his moms Korean ribs. Mitch is from Texas and is far from Korean but Ming is Asian and I think in about an hour I must have eaten 10 ribs.

The afternoon continued on and on as the kids were running around the yard with about 12 other kids and a huge, strapping young man from Asia, Dragon Lo. Lo plays AA ball for the Colorado Rockies. He is a good friend of Mitch and Ming as both of them have worked for Charlie Monfort (owner of the Rockies) for some time. It was so fun to see Lo and kids from 2 years old to 15 years old throwing dodge balls at his each other. We laughed and relaxed all afternoon.

Fall is coming so I grabbed my fire pit and then we sat huddled around the blaze as the sun dipped behind the Rockies (mountains that is, no Lo) and tried all sorts of bottles Mitch brought out from the cellar. Thanks to some great gifts and not so great gifts from people around the world and Charlie Monfort we drank some great $200 port, $800 cognac and a frightening tasting white liquid (I think it was Ethanol 85). We're testing to see if that last one will kill the grass alongside the patio.

We talked economics, politics, war, family, culture, spirituality, church, religion, and listened to U2, Garth Brooks and some others I didn't recognize. Seeing the neighborhood come together, eating, drinking, laughing, kids playing, and talking about the Kingdom was a small taste of Heaven for Christine and I. We thanked God for the 6 hours spent on the patio. We prayed that God would come, bless each person there and that they would experience His love and mercy.

This is a bit of what we want to see God do through us. We want to have the time, space and heart to listen, relate and be with people who live in Greeley. We keep coming back to the prayer to God, "Can we do this full time and trust God to birth missional, apostolic Christ-centered communities all over Weld County?" "Can we see God's Kingdom come here in our own neighborhood."

It was an encouraging afternoon and a bit of the vision God is giving us.

Categories: God, Family, Kingdom

Thought about Grace a bunch

2007-09-10T13:39:00.000-06:00

These past 9 months Christine and I have thought a ton about God's grace. We are learning maybe for the first time that following Christ, living for Him, and leading in ministry isn't about our efforts and hard work. Life is truely about God pursuing us with His love and mercy. We are so thankful for that and it has breathed a fresh new perspective and spirit in us to follow Jesus wherever He calls.

This video below reminds me that God's grace is needed much more than we, the beholder, can imagine.

Categories: God

Life Isn't Fair

2007-09-10T13:07:00.000-06:00

Two weeks ago on my day off, my good friend Ethan, who loves Disc Golf, called me and my neighbor, Billy, to go play disc with him for about an hour. I'm horrible and it isn't my favorite pastime. But hanging with Ethan and Billy is something I didn't want to pass up on.

After about an hour Reza a local reporter and photographer walked up and asked us if she could take some shots. Well two days later this crazy photo of me, holding a cigar, stuck in the trees, shows up. Then if you visit the Greeley Tribune website there is this shot and a shot of Billy. The reason life isn't fair is there were no props giving to Ethan, the disc loving thrower.

Oh well. My 15 minutes of fame.

Categories: Friends, Sports

Opening Game Day Weekend - Fun - No Wins

2007-09-10T09:04:00.000-06:00

Saturday was the beginning of Saturday Game Days for the Van Diest Family. Thankfully Isa and Jacob are not in sports yet. Jonathan opened up with his first football game. He plays Defensive End and Tight End for the Buffalo Bills. But he has been working out with LT and he really looks good (Picture on Right).

He did great but his team lost, I think like 45-0. We played a great team from Eaton. Jonathan is number 27 and is having a ton of fun. I'm proud of his hard work and heart for the game and his teammates.

Benjamin's team had their first game too. He's playing 6-7 year old soccer and I think we have one 7 year old, one 5 year old and the rest are 6 year olds. We also got beat 9-0. It must have been the coaches fault (I am that coach). Much better than last season as we lost our opener 10-0. Benjamin is a great player and goalie. He saved a strong shot off his forehead.

It is fun hanging out in the park all day Saturday and just seeing these little rug rats run around.

Categories: YouthSports, Family

We made it by God's grace

2007-09-04T14:07:00.001-06:00

Today Christine and I celebrate 14 years of marriage. After this year and hitting some potholes and speed bumps in our marriage I can now honestly say, "It is by God's grace we have made it thus far."

I would say we're crazier about each other now more than ever; raw, real, honest, growing and loving, no strings and only by God's mercy.

Categories: Marriage, Family

New Photos coming your way

2007-09-04T13:37:00.000-06:00

Hey all I have to make a public confession. I am totally smitten by my kids and my wife. Wow. Check out Summer is Coming to an End - Booh.

Categories: Family, Photos

Broncos - Here He Comes

2007-09-03T14:28:00.000-06:00

Most of you have celebrated and will be celebrating the start of college football and the NFL. I smell it in the air in early August and it keeps me awake at night. I also know my addictions are pretty severe so I didn't sign up for the fantasy football leagues my friends have been begging me to be part of.

We here in the Van Diest family are celebrating the start of Young American Football Jonathan style. Jonathan put on him body armor, boiled his mouth piece and banged heads with other 9 year old boys about 2 weeks ago. What a great rite of passage for all young boys. I still remember those days clearly. They were ingrained into my head a bit later as I was 15 years old. I have been helping coach his team and it has been sheer joy to watch him catch on quickly and love the game I so love. He'll be playing tight end and defensive end. His first game is Sept 8 at 11am if you want to drive up to Greeley to catch some real head pounding action.

If I knew how to insert some audio it would be the Monday Night Football song. So just hum it to yourself.

Categories: Family

Isolation: A Place of Transformation in the Life of a Leader

2007-08-30T08:12:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I was reading Steve Addison's blog and I have always respected his insights about the heart, issues and practices of Church planters and apostolic leaders. He wrote a short post about feeling what to do and think when you feel like the wheels have fallen off your ministry bus. This is where I have been a lot this past 8 months; at times no wheels, no gas, no engine other times 4 flats. He mentioned in passing a gal, Shelley Trebesch, that wrote an article/short book called Isolation: A Place of Transformation in the Life of a Leader. Something about the title and probably where I was feeling at the moment struck me deep to my core. I have felt like I have been in isolation much this past year. I have felt like a failure. I wrestled with God about if He'll ever use us again. I have been pissed about where I have been in the process and feeling like a little 2 year old whining about going to the bathroom (I have a personal experience with my own little 2 year old princess Isa - that's another story).

So I quickly jumped on my local library web site and checked to see if they had this short 80 page book. Nope! But that didn't stop me from asking them to buy it. Well two weeks later, I got one of my favorite calls. "Your book is in." They didn't buy it but they did borrow it from Fuller Seminary. Either way, it saved me $10.

Shelley quickly gave me some tracks to run on as I evaluated my last 8 months and where am I now and where I'm going. You'll observe in the first few pages that this is really a paper or article for some class but that doesn't shrink its input and value into my life. She walks you through about 7 case studies throughout history, biblical and non, of people who have been in isolation. You enter isolation either via a voluntary choice or in our case, involuntary. "Isolation is the setting aside a leader from normal ministry involvement in its natural context usually for an extended time in order to experience God in a new and deeper way." p. 10

"God can use a season of isolation to break a leader's arrogance and self confidence. Such breaking process can also restore a leader to become what God really created the leader to be." p.15

She talks about a 4 stage process of Isolation that I can almost give exact dates of entering, leaving and in some cases, I'm still in.
1. Stripping: of money, family, health, primarily of ministry identity. Ouch! This is what God had to do in me. Get rid of my self worship, worship of ministry, fame, impact, power, doing great things for God. I questioned am I worth anything? Is God enough? What in the world am I doing?
2. Wrestling with God: My codependency was discovered here. What I was getting my security and love from. It felt like God wasn't around. I think I even went into a period of depression. Not fun for me but I look back and see this is a tremendous value in my life. To be honest, there are still times of wrestling that are going on right now. "Why are you downcast, O my soul?" Psalm 42:5
3. Increased Intimacy: I often don't get here but not working for 8 months was I believe a gift God and CCC gave me. This is a big part in getting here. All I'm left with is God. I can't produce, can't perform for others. All I have is His grace. Desire for ministry success and being cutting edge dies and desire for the presence of Jesus is birthed.
4. Release to look toward the future: I think I may be here mixed with a couple of of these other stages. My desire is not to rush out into the future but wait for God to call us out. This should become a quiet peace when looking forward not an escaping the pain of isolation.

She also talks about 3 fruits of transformation. (I want these!) p. 49-54
1. Inward Transformation
2. Spiritual Transformation
3. Ministerial Transformation

She also talks about what development goes on in Isolation. She walks through Ps 42 (one of my new favorites) as she explains this development.
1. Be Honest.
2. Remember.
3. Have Hope.
4. Get a Mentor.
5. Listen to the Voice of God.
6. Embrace Isolation. (either if you're in it or because it will come.)

So grab it somewhere, read it and take the time to process what God may be doing in your isolation experience. If you're not in one, read it so when it does come, you'll have some sort of grid to grow.

Categories: Books, God

Please Pray for us!

2007-08-21T11:20:00.000-06:00

Please Pray:

*That God will use this time of serving in our regional office to bring about Glory to His name.

*That God will give Christine and the kids grace and mercy during homeschool.

*That God will use our time coaching football and soccer to bring about the love of God to those families participating.

*That God will continue to speak deep into our hearts and relationship. That we will do the work of seeking Him and resting in His Grace.

*That the work of launching 4,000 movements in Mexico City will continue under God’s grace.

Categories: Newsletters, Prayer

End of Summer.....Kingdom Projects

2007-08-21T10:56:00.000-06:00

The end of summer always brings about a mixed bag of emotions. On one level we are excited as I'm (Steve) coaching Jonathan's tackle football and Benjamin's soccer team. The boys love this time running around and getting to know the other kids. Christine and I love this time because it gives us such a great time to interact with the parents of these kids. We try to host 2 parties during the season to honor the kids as well as love the parents. We believe this is such a great opportunity to share the love of God through healthy community.

On the other side of our emotional bag is sadness because summer is soon ending. This summer is one of our first summers in 13 years of ministry where our ministry was to fall in love with Jesus, each other and the kids. After years of serving in Boulder, Chile, Spain, and Mexico we have been long overdue for a time of rest and restoration. You have made that possible. Thanks!!

We will miss hanging out at the the neighborhood pool and time up in the mountains. Just two weeks ago we, with our neighbors and their 7 kids, did our first camping trip. I think all four kids did better than Christine and I but we're in for it again next summer. It was so fun seeing them all asleep in their sleeping bags in the tent, running around with dirt all over their faces and the cheeks pasted with marshmallow stickiness of smores. (More pictures at Family Camping)

Through this time of rest and reflection we have learned a ton about the heart of God and the Gospel. We are constantly reminded that the "Gospel is not for the able." We are resting in the complete work of Jesus and that is sparking a flame in our hearts to fall deeper in love with Him and His work around us. A common theme we are learning is solitude, silence, and waiting on Him.

In these times of reading, talking, praying, sharing, crying and laughing we are trusting God to use our day job to bless Him and others. We believe that out of our brokenness and humility God will use us to bless those around us and around the world.

This past week Steve started in his work in the Great Plains Regional office of Campus Crusade to give service to 'special projects.' Lately these special projects have been fleshed out to be leading the 1,500 students who come to Denver over January to bless the city, serve the city and bring “The Kingdom of God” to Denverites. We’re trusting God that our "Day of Faith" on Jan 5th will challenge students to Good Deeds and share Good News to those hurting, lost and lonely.

A good friend of mine, Ethan, has recently taken a national director job with Campus Crusade and is responsible for bringing the Kingdom of God to every student and campus in 6 major cities of the U.S. Because of our experience, although short, and leadership in Mexico City he has asked me help coach, advise and network these city leaders with proper resources.

Thank you for allowing us to grow, allowing God to perk new interests and horizons in our hearts and waiting with us for God to bring about His Kingdom. We look forward to the months and years serving together. Thank you for your generous, faithful and encouraging partnership.

Categories: Family,, Newsletters,, God,, Kingdom,, Prayers

Family Camping

2007-08-17T14:20:00.001-06:00

To end the summer we joined our neighbors, Billy and Ali and their 7 kids plus two other friends they adopted for the summer, for a small camping trip up to Vail. Eli their 8-9 year old was in a statewide 3 v 3 soccer tournament up there so we decided to join them. Billy owns an RV company so his family was decked out with a great rig. We on the other hand don't own one but own a cool 3 bedroom tent. So what does a crazy family of 4 kids do if they don't have a trailer? We head up with the truck filled with gear and rough it.

We got up at 4:30am to head to Vail and aim for the first come first serve camp site. We lucked out because we pulled in there at 7:30am and grabbed the last site. The kids were in their glory; running around, finding sticks and firewood, dirt all over and visions of smores cooking in the fire that night.

We pitched the tent and gave it the good ole college try. Isa was all smiles, ear to ear, to know that she was sleeping in the tent next to me. Throughout the night she would just lean over, tap me and smile. Jacob was 10 short weeks at the time but did great. He slept great, stayed warm and Christine would just nurse right there in the tent. We survived a big rain storm the first night about midnight with little water finding its way into the corners of our tent.

The first night was a night of 'hobos.' We taught our friends and their kids how to make a tin foil filled with meat, cheeses, veggies, and sauces pocket of joy. It was a crazy adventure of kids screaming, "mine's done," and "which one is mine." Ultimately they loved it and we ended the night with smores.

This was our first time in Vail and we just loved it. We have driven through hundreds of times but found no reason to stop. The village, the mountain, shops and clean air is now calling us back. The village is filled with great shops and play grounds the kids just loved. Sunday afternoon after some soccer games we took the gondola up to the top of Vail Mountain. It was just shear beauty filled with volleyball, a good beer, a cup of cafe and good views.

All in all the kids, friends, smell of the mountains gave us a vision to make getting out and away from home and the city part of our regular summer lives. We'll have to wait until next year as school has started and the nights are getting colder. Maybe we'll find ourselves a little trailer to tow and to make the nights a bit more warm and dry.

Categories: Family, Photos

The Way of the Heart

2007-08-16T14:24:00.000-06:00

This past weekend I read a book from Henri J.M. Nouwen. He is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. I read In the Name of Jesus before and it impacted my way of thinking tremendously. A must check of The Way of the Heart out from your library or a quick $9 visit to Amazon will have you challenged in your intimacy and rest in God. A quick read will take you through Solitude, Silence and Prayer.

This has been a common theme for myself lately. From reading Scazzero and McLaren I am sensing a call to reorder how I interact, relate and experience Jesus. So much has been said about these traditions of experiencing God but maybe more as disciplines. Each author points to the experience and presence of God, not in a religious way of earning God's favor but in a pure religious manner (as said by John Lamb this past week as we were talking about the Celtics in Ireland).

I have so much to learn as I can see in my own life a disconnect from the holy presence of God. But more and more since our marriage struggle this past year and our own significance and identity was faltering I have seen God work in pursuing me more than I of Him. There is so much to learn about God and I believe Christendom in the next century will be completely different. I really do believe there is a whole new way of living that isn't about another strategy or program that helps us interact with God. It will probably be a whole new way of thinking/theology.

In light of this book summary I want to drop a few nuggets from Nouwen. Enjoy.

Solitude is not just a private therapeutic place. Rather it is a place of conversion, the place where the old self dies and the new self is born, the place where the emergence of the new man and woman occurs. p. 27
Here we reach the point where ministry and spirituality touch each other. It is compassion. Compassion is the fruit of solitude and the basis of all ministry. p. 33
In solitude we realize that nothing human is alien to us, that the roots of all conflict, war, injustice, cruelty, hatred, jealousy and envy are deeply anchored in our own hearts. p.34
What becomes visible here is that solitude (Steve: I would say Jesus in the solitude) molds self-righteous people into gentle, caring, forgiving persons who are so deeply convinced of their own great sinfulness and so fully aware of God's even greater mercy that their life itself becomes ministry. In such a ministry there is hardly any difference between doing and being. p.37
Silence is the way to make solitude a reality. p. 43
Silence is solitude practiced in action. p. 44
The word no longer communicates, no longer fosters communion, no longer creates community, and therefore no longer gives life. p. 46
Silence is the discipline by which the inner fire of God is tended and kept alive. p.52
It is as if we are not sure that God's Spirit can touch the hearts of people; we have to help Him out and, with many words, convince others of His power. But it is precisely this wordy unbelief that quenches the fire. p.54
As ministers our greatest temptation is toward too many words. They weaken our faith and make us lukewarm. But silence is a sacred discipline. A guard of the Holy Spirit. p. 56
Pastoral Counseling is the attempt to lead fearful parishioners into the silence of God, and to help them feel at home there, trusting that they will slowly discover the healing presence of the Spirit. p. 62
But our task is the opposite of distraction. Our task is to help people concentrate on the real but often hidden event of God's active presence in their lives. p. 63
Real prayer penetrates to the marrow of our soul and leaves nothing untouched. p. 78
By its very nature such prayer transforms our whole being into Christ precisely because it opens the eyes of our soul to the truth of ourselves as well as the truth of God. p. 78

Categories: Books, God, Spirituality

Photo Page updated

2007-08-15T15:48:00.000-06:00

Just posted our Family Photos today. I think you'll enjoy the shots. I know I do.

BLINK! There went July!

Categories: Family, Photos

Big Ideas n Brew

2007-08-15T10:55:00.001-06:00

This Friday and each one following I'm hosting Big Ideas and Brew. If you like one of those this is the time for you. You may not have any big ideas but you like Brew than come over for some stimulating conversation and community. If you really don't like brew than come share some big ideas that you have been learning, pondering, reading about and practicing. If you like both then you'll be in heaven. You also may be just looking for some good ideas and want to be around some other men, eating, drinking and enjoying all that is good about community.

If you're intersted, drop me an email. It will be Fridays 5-7pm at my house. What to bring? An article, a book, movie clip (in your brain) or any other big idea you may have. There will be food, drink and fun.

If you're feeling guitly and needing to bring something than bring a sixer.

See ya on Friday.

Categories: BigIdeas, Community

The Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering Truth that Could Change Everything

2007-08-07T17:05:00.000-06:00

I just finished Brian McLaren's book The Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering Truth that Could Change Everything. I have enjoyed in the past reading Brian's other books as they have always challenged me in my current way of thinking. I think this challenge always encourages me to open my eyes to those that don't know God and how we, Christians, are interacting with them with or without love.

This book was no different and is full of good insights, quotes and perspectives on the Kingdom Work of God. The past few years the concepts of the Kingdom have been an interest to me so this helped synthesize a few thoughts as I have forgotten many.

Brian has been largely influenced by N.T. Wright, Walter Wink, C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard. So yes, these guys are still alive but have a message that maybe because of a variety of reasons (Listed in Appendix I) we have missed for the past 2,000 years. I believe the next generation of Christians and Church goers and doers will live out this Secret Message of Jesus more than ever. Some have missed the message of Jesus before (Luke 13:28-30) so couldn't we also? Brian has been criticized in the past for not stating exactly what he believes about the Gospel and I believe in this book, although not a systematic theology, he does that well.

The Secret Message; what is so secret about it and what is it and where has it been for the past 2,000 years? Brian walks us through the social, political, relational, cultural and religious dynamics that existed during the life and teachings of Jesus. It is a message that Jesus taught through the sermon on the mount and throughout the other Gospels and I believe was supported and built upon by Paul. I believe the Secret Message is what we are all longing for in our lives, in our relationships, churches and ministries; a message that transforms not just individuals in their status of going or not going to heaven but in all they do, say and relate to. It is a message that is completely revolutionary when it comes to politics, social dynamics, the way we experience Church and the not churched world. It is largely a Jewish message that fights against the authority figures of the Roman and Pharisaical world. It is a message that isn't just to be preached from a pulpit but to be lived out in the world; next to the poor, those who are repulsive, in community and with real breaking down of our Christian sub-culture walls. It is a message for those who don't have their acts together, are broken, wanting something of value yet haven't proven themselves yet. It is a message that may anger you because you like the way you do Christianity.

Ultimately it is a message of the Kingdom of God. A term we may have lost on the fact we, as Americans, don't live in the concepts of a Kingdom. Maybe it should be spoken of as a Dream of God, the Network of God, the Revolution of God, the Mission of God, The Dance of God. All of these are incomplete metaphors for the Kingdom but they all paint to what this secret message is all about. (p.140-48)

I think this secret message of God's Kingdom work (Luke 4:18-19) is what we, the evangelical Church has been missing in part for a long time. It isn't just about personal forgiveness of sins and getting to heaven but it is about a way of living, following Jesus, that impacts every action, relationship, community and country. Brian says it like this, "What if Jesus' secret message reveals a secret plan? What if he didn't come to start a new religion - but rather came to start a political, social, religious, artistic, economic, intellectual, and spiritual revolution that would give birth to a new world?" (p. 4)

That might make some of us feel uncomfortable because, as I said before, we like the way we have it with God; we have a good agreement, system with Him. Believe me I thought I did too.

You might walk away feeling more confused and fuzzy. That is precisely what the secret message of Jesus is like. It probably isn't a bunch of timeless religious prescriptions that help us pull up our own spiritual boot straps. It is a story that unfolds as we follow, walk, interact with and learn about Jesus. Yes, it is a story that scripture supports and teaches.

I have been tired and burnt out on the way I have been living my Christian life. This past year with all its trials and problems has surfaced so much in my life that I'm not happy with. I want to live a vibrant following of Jesus life that impacts deep into my heart, lives under God's grace and truly loves those around me. No more trying real hard to live up to a Christian standard that leaves me tired and wanting more.

Here are some quotes from the book that you might like:

The Kingdom of God. The Empire of God. What could Jesus mean by this? One thing is sure: He didn't mean what many-perhaps most-people today think he meant. He didn't mean "Heaven after you die." Maybe the meaning would be clearer if we paraphrased it like this: "You're all preoccupied with the oppressive empire of Caesar and the oppressed Kingdom of Israel. You're missing the point: The Kingdom of God is here and now, available to all!This is the reality that matters most. Believe this Good News and follow me!" p. 14
For Jesus' secret message of the Kingdom to be realized, it must first expose the evil of all alternative Kingdom or regimes or systems or ideologies. And for that evil to be exposed, it must be drawn out of the shadows, where it hides in secret." p. 62
Brian's Gospels Great Commission Summary: "You can't keep this secret of the Kingdom to yourselves. I am now sending you, as the Father sent me, to communicate the good news of the Kingdom. Those who receive your message, you should form into learning communities of practicing disciples so they learn to live according to my secret message. Just as you are learning. You should not do this in your own power, but must rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. And you shouldn't stop at the borders of your own culture, language or religion, but you must cross every border and boundary to share with all people everywhere the secret you've learned from me-the way, the truth, the live you've experienced walking with me." p. 73
Instead of being about the Kingdom of God coming to earth, the Christian religion has too often been preoccupied with abandoning or escaping the earth and going to heaven. p. 78
We have been preoccupied with guilt and money, power and fear, control and status-not with service and love, justice and mercy, humility and hope. p. 79
I see too much of this religious bombast; busy, chatty, manic or monotone religion without the heart of Jesus' message of the Kingdom of God. But thankfully, I also see that wherever the secret message of Jesus is believed, proclaimed, and lived, transformation occurs-transformation of individuals, faith communities, neighborhoods and even cultures. p. 79
The Secret Message of Jesus is meant not just to be heard or read but to be seen in human lives, in radically inclusive reconciling communities, written not on pages in a book but in the lives and hearts of friends. p. 102
The Kingdom of God is not just a status-it's a mission and a story in which they-and we-can play a part. p.171
C.S. Lewis says, "We do not want merely to see beauty, though, God knows, even that is bounty enough. We want something else which can hardly be put into words-to be united with the beauty we see, to pass into it, to receive it into ourselves, to bathe in it, to become part of it...at present we are on the outside of the world, the wrong side of the door. We discern the freshness and purity of morning, but they do not make us fresh and pure. We cannot mingle with the splendors we see. But all the leaves of the New Testament are rustling with the rumor that it will not always be so. Some day, God willing, we shall get in." p. 198

Hopefully that gave you a teaser. Call your local library, have them order it or visit Amazon and get a copy for yourself and start a small Kingdom revolution that will impact your life and those around you.

You can also download an extra chapter (Prayer and the Kingdom) and study guide at Brian D. McLaren.

Categories: Books, Church, Kingdom, God

Thoughts on Church

2007-07-29T14:49:00.001-06:00

As my heart, life, issues and understanding evolves over time on what God is doing in and through me and our family I also begin to always look and listen for what Church should, can and may be in the future. I love the the work of God, the Holy Spirit's power and the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. I have to admit I do struggle with the church as we know it today and have read about it throughout history. I still go, think about it, pray for it and dream on how it can be a better representation of the Kingdom work of God. Lately I have been thinking and reflecting on Jesus' and Paul's use of Kingdom through out the Bible. I don't have many concrete thoughts yet but I did read an article out of the Roots magazine that Calvary Bible Church's (Boulder, Colorado) pastor Tom Shirk wrote that I thought was a good thought on the church outside it's four walls. Christine and I have many friends who go there as we attended there for 13 years. Here is the article in full:

Grace at the Crossroad
Serving Our Community in Love

by Pastor Tom Shirk

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe. The Lord is the tower, unmovable, unchanging, always faithful, and mighty to save.

A mighty fortress is our God! A bulwark never failing!

While God Himself is unchanging, the Church is not! His Church is not a fortress. It is more of a lighthouse, or a hospital, or a treatment center – a gracious outpost for spiritual and physical help. The Church is a living and dynamic organism, comprised of transformed but flawed people.

Sometimes churches can begin to think of themselves as the fortress: established ministries into which members can run to find safe and unchanging traditions that were good enough for their parents’ parents. Some people want a church in which you’ll always find things the same – the same hymns, same liturgy, same everything. One of the dangerous realities of an established church is its tendency to expend too much time and too many resources just keeping the organization operating as it always has. It’s natural for large organizations to inevitably tend toward maintenance and institutional preservation. But, when that becomes the focus, a church will lose its distinctiveness as an effective source of grace to the world.

This is not to suggest, of course, that the message or mission of the church must change. Only that the approach to fulfilling our mission must sometimes become more effective. Calvary Bible Church’s mission remains: we’re building a Christ-centered community of people fully devoted to loving God and loving others. Loving others motivates us to look outside of ourselves, not at ourselves. We must become better at having an internal fortitude of spiritual strength and vitality, but also an external focus on extending the grace of Jesus Christ to the world.

One of my good friends, Alan Kraft, who pastors Christ Community Church in Greeley, Colorado recently said to me, “The best metaphor for understanding the role of the church in the world is not as a force, nor as a fortress, but as a fragrance.” I like that! The apostle Paul put it this way, “For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” We don’t seek to become a force which takes over the world. We don’t want to become a fortress to hide away from the world. We seek to be a fragrance, spilled out in the presence of the world so they may enjoy the sweet aroma of our gracious Savior.

As an externally focused church, we set our gaze outside the four walls of our buildings to find appropriate intersections between the needs of our community and the gifts, resources, and grace within our church family. Calvary seeks the welfare of our community, moving outside our four walls to extend good deeds and good news for local and global kingdom impact. We measure the effectiveness of these good deeds not by the number of people who attend, but by the transformational impact they are making in the world.

In May, Calvary was recognized at the inaugural Kingdom Assignment Awards in Aliso Viejo, California. The Kingdom Assignment Foundation honored Calvary for our on-going dedication to service in our community. I was so proud to represent your commitment to loving others through tangible acts of service.

Calvary continually looks for opportunities to extend grace through effective service. We are convinced of these spiritual realities:

Christians who do not serve other people are not mature, no matter how much Biblical knowledge they have. Serving others is one of the greatest catalysts to spiritual growth.

The threshold of service does not have to be very high in order for people to make an impact. Working together for one weekend during Sharefest, 750 members of Calvary radically improved the welfare of local schools and social service organizations.

Servants can go anywhere. Once you are prepared to serve the least, God opens opportunities you never dreamed of before.

Partnership with other organizations creates greater effectiveness. As we have worked with other organizations within Boulder and Weld Counties we have become friends with people we didn’t even know five years ago. And they love us! They consider us trusted partners.

Categories: Church, Kingdom

I'm addicted - Kind of

2007-07-24T15:04:00.000-06:00

58%

Categories: Blog

"Daddy, I Did It!"

2007-07-17T08:05:00.000-06:00

"Daddy, I did it!" is what we have heard the past couple of weeks from Isa with a huge smile. It has been so cute to hear her joy and excitment of going to the bathroom on the toilet and wearing big girl panties. I just heard a "yeah" from the bathroom. She hasn't had a mistake in 2 weeks. What a miracle.

Yes, at times she holds her #2 for days but eventually she finds success.

I guess after all that plastic she ate off her bedroom mini blinds it made her pretty regular. We have since replaced the blinds and change the location of her bed. Naptimes could be amazingly creative when she was up there alone. Isa would bite off portions of her blinds to look outside and see what was happening. She must have her mom's desire to be around the action.

Categories: Family

Faith - I can't quite see yet

2007-07-17T07:45:00.000-06:00

I was reminded this morning of Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." The reality in our lives now is that we're not sure what the future holds for us. This may be a first in many years. Yes, we moved to Mexico and it may have looked uncertain but we had a general idea of what we were going to do. Now, we know God is leading us, calling us, growing us and pruning us for something but we're just not sure exactly what that. It is a bit more scary than before but at the same time, from what we have learned in our last 8 months being in the presence of God, having only Him as our life source and significance, this journey is exactly where we want to be and need to be.

I at times have fallen in love with the adventure of doing Kingdom work for God, fallen in love with the prestige of doing 'great' things for Him and having a position and influence for Him. What I'm learning, still in process, is that falling in love with Him and having Him be the source of all my significance is all I need. I could have preached and shared with you a thousand times of putting God first and leaning only on Him but when you're brought to the end of yourself and die to self is when you really learn that truth. I'm learning.....

Today I read this from Steve Addison that makes me want to live for Christ, trusting Him, risking for Him, and dying to self and my earthly or religious desires.

People who change the world have a cause that is worth risking everything for.
Their lives become like grains of wheat that fall to the ground and die and in
doing so produce much fruit. They count the cost but consider the rewards worth
the risk. They keep climbing the next mountain and the next. . .

Read the whole thing at : Looking Down From the Mountain

Categories: God, Faith, Ministry

Dutch getting taller

2007-07-16T07:39:00.001-06:00

After leaving my Southern California Dutch little haven about 15 years ago I was a solo Dutch person living in Colorado. I grew up with crazy comments like: "Have you hugged your Dutch girl today?" or "If you're not Dutch, then you're not much." There were even times a few years ago, my staff team in Boulder announced October as Dutch Oppression Month. It was a hard go.

But today I read this article: Dutch Now Taller Than Americans I guess finally justice has been served and the facts are true.

Categories: Family

Disruptive Missiology: I like being disruptive

2007-07-11T11:13:00.000-06:00

Sat down today and read through the Mission Frontiers Magazine, found online here. The last article in Further reflections called Disruptive Missiology Part 1: Definition by Greg Parsons has some good insights.

At times, to see that happen, we need a disruptive missiology. Something that looks at what is happening, what is not happening and dreams about what might happen. Something that hears the footsteps of the working of God in breakthrough and thinks, dreams, and works towards what might happen should God choose to move in peoples where we haven’t seen Him yet move.

I like dreaming with a healthy dissatissfaction of where we are at in reaching the lost. He ends with, "How might god use your giftings and creativity beyond what you have dreamed to disrupt something for good?"

Categories: Missions, Movements, Leadership, God, SimpleChurch

Missionalism will destroy you and others

2007-07-08T14:08:00.000-06:00

I toss around the idea and dream of missional communities that impact a person's heart, life, relationships, community and city with the Gospel. Today I read an article by an author, pastor, speaker that I highly respect, Gordon MacDonald. Not because of his greatness but because in his brokenness he learned a ton about the grace and mercy of Christ.

Here he talks about something different than a missional church or community but the dangers of missionalism. Here are a few of his thoughts:

It's a leader's disease. Like a common cold that begins with a small cough, missionalism catches on in a leader's life and seems at first so inconsequential. But let this disease catch hold and you are likely to have bodies strewn all over the place, the leader's and some of the leader's followers.

Missionalism starts slowly and gains a foothold in the leader's attitude. Before long the mission controls almost everything: time, relationships, health, spiritual depth, ethics, and convictions.

Missionalism catches hold when an idea is bigger than a person and overwhelms the soul's ability to constrain it and direct it.

Missionalism—the passionate need to keep things growing and growing so that one proves his/her worth—can catch hold from various sources. For some of us, it came early in life when we discovered that we got a lot of love when we went forward to dedicate our lives to Christian service.

Comedian Robin Williams, who has lived his life rather frantically, checks into a rehab clinic (our modern version of a monastery) and when he comes out two months later, tells Diane Sawyer what he's learned.
"All any of us want is to be loved," he says. Could that be what's behind missionalism? A suspicion that if I build and build and build, doing all these good things, that people will love me? Do bigger accomplishments equate to more love?

Read the whole article and insights on how to protect your heart, mind and relationships from the dangers of Missionalism: click here.

Categories: God, Movements, Leadership, ChurchPlanting, SimpleChurch

June is not so gloomy

2007-07-05T09:15:00.000-06:00

Growing up in California the month of June could be known as June Gloom for its overcast and grey weather. But we had a great June and you can visit Family Photos for updated shots and videos.

Categories: Photos, Family

Join us in Prayer

2007-07-05T08:41:00.000-06:00

Please Pray:

That God will speak clearly to us about our future.

That we will have the patience and understanding as we wait for the next chapter in our lives.

That we will continue to do the work of healing, restoration and renewal.

For the character and relational growth of our kids.

For us as we head to our Int’l Campus Crusade Conf. in Fort Collins, CO on July 15-25.

That we will be a testimony and witness to the couples and families around us that are struggling and ready to give up.

That we will trust God for all our needs, now and in the future.
Categories: Family, Prayer, Newsletters, God

Babies, Broken Arms, Bikinis, Bulls and the Kingdom

2007-07-05T08:33:00.000-06:00

Since our last official letter in April so much has happened in our lives. Jacob James is now over 5 weeks old and over 10 lbs. He keeps the progression of dark, white, dark, white (Jonathan -> Benjamin -> Isa -> Jacob) skinned kids. He is doing so well and the older kids are just enamored with him. He has even been gracious enough to sleep in 5 hour chunks a few nights this week. Christine is doing amazingly with 4 kids and we so grateful for the neighborhood (over 30 kids) as they have been a blessing to us and the kids.
Two months ago we had never been to the hospital in Greeley but 6 days after checking out Jacob, I, Steve, checked back in with Benjamin. Right after church Ben fell off a ledge onto the steps and broke both bones in his left arm, the bone even popped out of the skin. Within 45 minutes and a speedy ride in my friends Audi, Benjamin was on a hospital bed and on morphine. Two hours later he was in surgery, I was in tears and wrestling with God about what was going on. “Come on, this is his summer. We can’t handle anymore trials!” God allowed me to vent and reminded me even though life doesn’t go as we want He is very much present and in charge of our lives. Nine days later Benjamin got off his plaster cast for a waterproof fiberglass one. The full arm cast hasn’t stopped him from playing baseball with one arm, swimming and even climbing. This Friday, Lord willing, his cast is cut off for a short forearm version. For some gross pictures of the break visit our blog (see above). We have learned a lot from Benjamin about perseverance and accepting diversity.
Isa is growing up and becoming her own little self. Often times you can find her running around in her bikini down the street to play with her good friends Will (2) and Emma (4). Today she has been wearing her new panties and a wristband, that’s it. She is learning to use the potty. So far 5 victories and 2 mistakes. That’s life.
Last month we took the kids to see Shrek 3 and realized we may have our own Shrek, Jonathan. He is still 8 years old and is the size of a 13 year old. What we love about Jonathan is his tender and compassionate heart. He challenges us in our love for the lost and hurting.
Just this past weekend Grandma and Grandpa visited and we headed down to the Greeley rodeo. Jonathan and the mechanical bull had their battle together. For a minute it looked like Jonathan was going to win but as usual the Bull took the victory. See our blog for pictures and videos.
Where does that leave Steve & Christine Van Diest? At times it is painful and sad that we’re not in Mexico but in the same breathe we see God’s handiwork in bringing life into our hearts, restoring our love for Him and each other as well as giving us a renewed and new vision for the future. Greeley has been restorative for our souls and ministry. We can’t say thank you enough for your gracious, patient, loving and encouraging support of our ministry and lives. It has been amazing that God is still providing for us through you in this transition. This is the lessons we are learning about his love, grace and mercy. You all have been a instrumental part in teaching us those lessons through your giving. Thank you!!!
Every week at our little church in Greeley we pray the Lord’s prayer. A phrase that has penetrated our hearts and one that God is confirming in our vision for the future is “Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done, On Earth As It Is In Heaven.” We are sensing God’s pull on our hearts to be about the Kingdom work here in Northern Colorado. We want to bring about the goodness of his power, love and care for those who know and don’t know Jesus here; families, young and old people, hurting and those who have it all.
What does that look like for us in Campus Crusade? For right now we are waiting on the Lord to surface a position that allows us to serve out of our gifts and passions in light of this vision. On August 15, Steve will take a temporary position in our regional office serving our ministries in 5 states through ‘special projects’ until something later surfaces.
We believe God has a great future for us yet we don’t want to force the next chapter of our lives. Please pray for us. Please drop us an email us if you have any questions and comments. We cherish our partnership with you. We know that God has continued to call us to a life of ministry with you. Thank you for your patience. Thank you for your understanding as we seek the Lord’s will for our next season of life. You all have been wonderful partners!
Categories: Newsletters, God, Family

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality

2007-07-02T11:48:00.000-06:00

How can one capture what he/she has learned in 6 months of growth. Well Peter Scazzero in Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: Unleash a Revolution in your Life in Christ has done a great job to summarize and put some feet and hands to our counseling and growth. This may have been one of the best spiritual growth books that I have ever read or come across. A good friend, John Lamb, suggested back in March to pick this one up and read it.

First, for all of you and me that think or thought that emotions have no place in our walk with God this book is for you. I used to dismiss emotions because as the little train diagram suggest that emotions are the caboose and you really don't need them if you have faith and fact. What I learned is that God uses our emotions to give us a full picture of our humanity and that we were made in the image of God. "My failure to "pay attention to God" and to what was going on inside me caused me to miss many gifts. He was lovingly coming and speaking to me, seeking to get me to change. I just wasn't listening. I never expected God to meet me through feelings such as sadness, depression and anger." p.19 Scazzero points out that in order to grow spiritually you must grow emotionally.

Secondly, he gives an extremely helpful rundown on ten symptoms of Emotionally Unhealthy Spirituality in chapter 2. As you read these ask yourself where you find yourself. Believe me I live in many of these.

Using God to run from God
Ignoring the emotions of anger, sadness and fear
Dying to the wrong things
Denying the past's impact on the present
Dividing our lives into "secular" and "sacred" compartments
Doing for God instead of being with God
Spiritualizing away conflict
Covering over brokenness, weakness and failure
Living without limits
Judging other people's spiritual journey

He also shares when we combine emotional healthy and contemplative spirituality they offer us three primary gifts: (p.47)

The gift of slowing down
The gift of anchoring in God's love; and
The gift of breaking free from illusions.

The gift of slowing down is a challenge for Christine and I but in these past 6 months God is teaching us a ton. Later on in the book Scazzero gives some practical suggestions for a 'daily office' and a 'sabbatical.' But at this point the book what stuck out the most was anchoring in God's love; something that has been difficult for me to experience apart from my performance for God and others.

"Emotional healthy uniquely positions us to gain a small glimpse into "how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to [experientially] know this love that surpasses knowledge." (Eph 3:18, 19). That small glimpse alone is enough to ground us in our true identity--to know we are deeply loved by God. Because of this, we can have a new, more biblical self-understanding:

I hold myself in high regard despite my imperfections and limits.
I am worthy to assert my God-given power in the world.
I am entitle to exist.
It is good that I exist.
I have my own identity from God that is distinct and unique.
I am worthy of being valued and paid attention to.
I am entitled to joy and pleasure.
I am entitled to make mistakes and not to be perfect.

Emotional health powerfully anchors me in the love of God by affirming that I am worthy of feeling, worthy of being alive, and lovable even when I am brutally honest about the good, the bad, the ugly deep beneath the surface of my iceberg." p. 54

I am learning to receive God's love and to get in touch with how I am doing inside. There is no reason to be afraid of those feelings. I have been learning to take those emotions to the Lord and use them as an opportunity to experience the cross of Christ.

"We are too active for the kind of reflection needed to sustain a life of love with God and others." p. 48

Scazzero points out that Emotionally healthy spirituality requires yo to go through the pain of the Wall--or, as the ancients called it, "the dark night of the soul." p.126 But when you go through the hard work of dealing with the pain inside caused by your own brokenness, the trials of life, the destruction of others you come out to:

A greater level of brokenness
A greater appreciation for Holy unknowing (mystery)
A deeper ability to wait for God
A greater detachment

Emotionally healthy faith admits: p.122

I am bewildered
I don't know what God is doing right now
I am hurt
I am angry
Yes, this is a mystery
I am very sad right now
O God, why have you forsaken me?

Throughout the book I saw holes in my emotional Swiss cheese health. But it also confirmed so many of the lessons that I/we have learned through our wonderful counselor Michael Cusick. It feels at times that in some areas we starting at child birth and growing all over again. But this is where I want to be; seeing my weaknesses, faults, fears, sadness and anger and letting the person of Jesus and the power of the Gospel minister deep within my soul. I am learning to be my own self. "Differentiation: a person's capacity to define his or her own life's goals and values apart from the pressures of those around them." p. 82

If you find yourself a overly emotional person not sure what to do with all the craziness inside that seams to make no sense or if you're stone cold, haven't shed a tear in years (even in the greatest chick flicks), or only have two emotions (tired or hungry) than this book is a must for you.

On the topic of resting and his definition of daily office and sabbath is where I came across this quote: "God was teaching them [Adam and Eve] that, "after the full flowering of their achievements and activities, they [were] invited, not to be active, not to accomplish, but to surrender in trust...Action, then passivity; striving, then letting go, doing all one can do and then being carried...only in this rhythm is the spirit realized." p. 156

He defines a daily office as Stopping, Centering, Silence and Scripture. "The great power in setting small units of time for morning, midday and evening prayer infuses into the rest of my day's activities a deep sense of the sacred of God. All the time is His. The daily office, practiced consistently, actually eliminates any division of the sacred and the secular in our lives." p.159

Eugene Peterson says in his book on page 165 "..even though Sabbath has been one of the most abused and distorted practices of the Christian life, we can not do without it. "Sabbath is not primarily about is or how it benefits us; it is about God and how God forms us...I don't see any way out of it; if we are going to live appropriately in the creation we must keep the sabbath.""

Now I'm off to start reading Brian D. McLaren's book The Secret Message of Jesus. Again my local library hails as the best. I put in a book order for three books and this past week I got my call; they're in. Not only did they find them but they are brand new bought just for me and those following.

Categories: Books, God, Spirituality

The Way of the Wild Heart - Eldredge

2007-07-02T08:30:00.001-06:00

"The Glory of God is man fully Alive." Saint Iranaeus

I have read a bunch of books from John Eldredge the past 10 years and for some reason this one, The Way of the Wild Heart: A Map for the Masculine Journey, caught my eye either at the library or on someone Else's blog. This past February I read this book and it was a healing process. It really is about the journey and stages boys and men take through life and then how to teach and train your own boys.

Reading surfaced some covered issues that have been in my life and give some good explanation on why, how and when I feel and act the way I do.

He identifies six stages in our journey: boyhood, cowboy, warrior, lover, king and sage. All of which I have areas to see develop in and also have seen scars and victories birthed in.

If you're a man, know men, are married to one, raise boys to men and just are flat out puzzled by men, read this. It grabbed my heart and gave some good explanation to my fears in my own masculine journey.

I came across some good quotes of others there and his own stuck deep down in my soul:

"Worship is the primary means by which we immerse ourselves in the rhythms and stories of our creator...the way people stay in rhythm with their creation, finding their place in it, (knowing) who they are and where they've come from, internalizing the creation cadences of God who made heaven and earth." Eugene Peterson
"A lover comes to offer his strength to a woman, not to get it from her." p.?
"Service to God is over shadowed by intimacy with God." p.?
"God is a God of process." p.?
"An Adventure is, by its nature, a thing that comes to us. It is a thing that chooses us, not a thing that we choose." How we respond to that adventure shapes us into the men we become." Eldredge quoting Chesterton p. 125

He also gives some good counsel for the battlefield of our souls

One battle at a time
Fight your battles once
During any important event, assume it's warfare
Resist it quickly
You wont feel like a warrior
Stay with it
It will make you holy

"Are you willing to let go of your insistence to control, meaning, to allow for a life that exists beyond the realm of analysis, to let some portions of your life be impractical, to cease evaluating all things based on their utility and function? Coming closer to the heart, are you willing to let passion rise in you, though undoubtedly it may unnerve you? To permit the healing of some of your deepest wounds? Are you willing, at some level, to be undone?" p. 206,7
"This is what a good king does--he uses all he has to make his kingdom like the kingdom of Heaven for the sake of the people who live under his rule." p.225
"The truth is, either we choose it (humility) for ourselves, or our Father will arrange to have us humbled. For me, I'd prefer to forgo those moments if possible. I'd much rather choose the humble heart." p.247

Categories: Books, God, Masculinity

Rebuilding Your Broken World

2007-07-02T07:54:00.000-06:00

This past winter after leaving Mexico, having our world as we knew it broken apart in stress, relational issues and just reeling from being and feeling like a failure I read Rebuilding Your Broken World by Gordon MacDonald. This book was recommended to me by my counselor Michael Cusick and I'm so thankful. Gordon MacDonald has been a Christian leader, pastor, writer and speaker for many years and his simple, humble, broken and insightful thoughts pierce the heart and mind just where it is needed. He currently is editor at large for Leadership Journal and about 20 years ago imploded as a Christian leader. Therefore his wisdom isn't coming from some ivory tower where theory and flame covered arrows of untested principles are launched at Christians. He speaks from personal failure, humility, an attitude of experiencing God's love and forgiveness.

Not only was this book a good read for me as well as Christine but I recommend it to anyone pre, current or post failures. It will remind you to rest in the presence of God's mercy, grace, truth and love. He will give you simple yet profound ideas on how to rest and restore your heart.

Here is a quote from the book as he quotes O. Chambers. "At times God puts us through the

discipline of darkness to teach us to heed him. Songbirds are taught to sing in the dark, and we are put in the shadow of God's hand until we learn to hear him. "What I tell you in the darkness,"-watch where God puts you into darkness, and when you are there keep your mouth shut. Are you in the dark just now in your circumstances, or in your life with God? Then remain quiet. If you open your mouth in the dark, you will talk in the wrong mood; darkness is the time to listen. Don't talk to other people about it; don't read books to find out the reason of the darkness, but listen and heed. If you talk to other people, you cannot hear what God is saying. When you are in the dark, listen, and God will give you a very precious message for someone else when you get into the light." p. 173

There are a few authors and leaders out there that I'm really, really drawn to. MacDonald is one of them because he isn't perfect, failed, experienced dark and hard times and in the midst of that he experienced God's great unwavering love and mercy. His other books are on my 'to read' list in the near future.

MacDonald gives a simple process on how to rebuild.

1. Be silent: withdrawal

2. Don't defend yourself

3. Enjoy the amusement of God's messengers

4. Assume the ministry of the interior

5. Listen to the deep things

6. Receive the mercy; live like a forgiven person

7. Don't dodge the pain; walk right through it

8. Look for those who need grace and aren't getting it

9. Join with those who know how to praise God

10. Look for new themes

He also gives a list of how to make a Personal Defense Initiative so you won't fall back into failure, if that is even possible in my life.

1. Adopt a repentant lifestyle

2. Pay the price of regular spiritual discipline

3. Cultivate key relationships

4. Resist the 'applause' that belongs to Christ

5. Take time to have fun

6. Hold things loosely

7. Be filled with the Spirit of God

Many have asked what in the world are Christine and I doing since moving back from Mexico and moving to Greeley, CO. A good summary would be that we have been following those things with a good group of loving, gospel centered friends in our neighborhood. Gordon and his wife moved to a place out east, Peace Ledge, when they were rebuilding and have made that home and a place of rest the following years. That is what Greeley has been for us; a place of rest and restoration to our souls, hearts, and relationships.

As I close I can pretty much say that the broken part of life, failures, hurts, pains are not fun or enjoyable at all. But I do believe God allows us to go there so He can get all of us, all of us. That part is a ride. In the last 6 months Christine and I have seen and experienced God in a whole new light. Brokenness that leads to deep intimacy is life.

Here are a few quotes that stuck out in my mind:

Amost every personal defeat begins with our failure to know ourselves, to have a clear view of our capabilities (negative and positive), our propensities, our weak sides. p. 13
Rebuilding broken worlds can never happen alone. It is a team effort, and has to be accomplished in concert with those who can give grace and affirm progress p. 20
A great and unique reaction of the Christian toward an individual's broken world experience is the gracious one: treating someone not as he deserves to be treated but as he needs to be treated in order for his broke nworld to be rebuilt....Without grace, broken worlds do not get rebuilt. p.34
Now I'm looking in and I've come to realize that until you name what is in you and face it you cannot change anything. p.67
The temptation to rely on abundant energy, youthful charisma, and inner enthusiasm will lead many to ignore the necessity of quiet, solitude, reflection, and listening. p.108
A broken world will never be rebuilt until we learn this principle of the unbound heart. It must be unwrapped and exposed to the light. The light will show some unattractive evil, but then something wonderful will happen. The love of God will be free to flood into the dark recesses, and the rebuilding will begin. p.159
We must live as perpetually broken people. Those who are broken only in crisis will soon grow cold, and other kinds of broken worlds are liable to follow. Brokenness is a way of life...." p.165
But I would like to propose that if we were to discover the ministry of restorative grace, we might find an enormous number of people crowding forward to receive what God has offered to give through Jesus Christ. There, in the ministry of restoration, may be a key to renewal." p.241

Categories: Books, God

No Perfect People Allowed

2007-06-22T16:23:00.000-06:00

Well I'm sitting out on my deck, the wind is blowing my long brown hair in my eyes, the smoke from my cigar is far from making this weakling cough and I finished a good read by John Burke, No Perfect People Allowed: Creating a COME AS YOU ARE culture in the church. For you spanish speakers and readers you can read it at No Se Admiten Personas Perfectas.

At first it felt like a "Look at our church; we are perfect and follow us" type book about Gateway Community Church in Austin, TX. But soon I let that first emotion go and saw the tremendous heart that John, his staff and congregation have for the lost, broken and messed up emerging generation. It really pokes and prods my heart and our current American churches on how we are structured, thinking, praying, reaching and responding to the hurting people around us.

I first read it because the title struck me and I was at Joel and Ana's wedding in Michigan and saw it in the hotel lobby sitting around. I read the first chapter and I thought, "Hmm, I not perfect and I feel messed up and like a failure this past year. This book is for me." I didn't realize that it was for those leading and wanting to reach these type of people. But all along the way I found my heart longing for a type of church, life and ministry that reaches people in my community like they have, even though I have issues with the traditional four walls church.

Chapter 10: Tribal Truth: Creating the Culture of Incarnational Truth was worth whatever price you pay for the book. I got my local library to buy it for me so I didn't pay anything but I would have paid the $12. If you're leading a church, pray for the lost, want to figure out how to get away from just caring and shepherding Christians then you ought to read this book.

Here are a few quotes to perk your interest and give you a feel for the John's heart and maybe this will challenge you in your thinking, life and ministry.

"Are we raising up a generation of leaders ready to lay down their comfortable lives to dive into the muck of cultural America? Or are we just playing church-developing spiritual dependants who consume the goods off whatever church shelf will "feed me," or "puff me with more knowledge," or even "feel" postmodern?" p. 20
"We can make people conform but not become. So the better path is to help people trust God, and that's a struggle for all of us! Even for religious leaders who often struggle trying to control people's behavior, because if feels like a reflection on us. We must all let go and trust God to lead and guide us into wholeness and healing." p.157
"Sex is a psuedo-connection for hetero- or homosexual need for intimacy." p. 162
"We must know where to doubt, where to feel certain, where to submit." Pascal p. 167
Truths: 1. Humble Truth 2. Practical Truth 3. Rational Truth 4. Incarnation Truth
"Our Goal is not to get people to "convert" by repeating one prayer. The goal is to love God and people, living out of the fullness of life in God's kingdom, inviting all to come and enjoy the fruits of His life in us, because the door has been flung wide open through Christ." p. 175
"[Most people] lead lives of quiet desperation." Thoreau p.205
"Ours is a culture crying out for intimacy, but only able to conceive of accessing it through sex." Mike Starkey (God, Sex and Gen X) p. 223
"...leaders can't afford to retreat into holy huddles, cursing the darkness. We must walk forward into it and turn on a light. Jesus said His words are truth that liberate--that bring life and freedom to every aspect of existence." p. 226
Regarding the Samaritan Woman: "Jesus knew that until she had living water springing up in her soul, flowing out a right relationship with God, she would forever drink from muddy water." p. 227
"Listen attentively to a person's story, then ask, "Which way forward from here? Help people move toward Christ regardless off their path." p. 228
"True healing, however, often requires a lengthy process of righting the wrongs and uncovering the lies of the past. God can heal us immediately, but more often He takes us along a different path that forces us to continually depend on Him, because only in Him do we find true life. If he immediately healed us, we would immediately turn back to our independent, self-centered ways." p. 247
"...sometimes pain can be a friend if it drives us to the end of ourselves and into the arms of God." p. 252
"God has a plan to create a new family, a redemptive family--a family with the power to heal and restore what humanity lost by going its own way." p. 288
"...one of the tasks of God's new family needs to be teaching each other how to enjoy life as God intended." p. 292

That's a good snippet. The book has some great personal evaluation questions after each chapter and some for your small group. I would suggest reading this with your church or small group leadership. It will open your eyes to the lost around us, what they are going through and unfortunately how the church is hurting them and missing their real needs.

John ends the book with a chapter for leaders and how we should think about our future church generations. What are we doing to raise up the next generation of church planters?

Enjoy the read!

Categories: Church, ChurchPlanting, SimpleChurch, Movements, Ministry, Leadership, Books

What's Happening in Mexico City?

2007-06-17T06:55:00.001-06:00

You may be wondering what in the world is going on in Mexico City. Well MSNBC reports: "Mexico City's leftist lawmakers plan to legalize prostitution, the latest step toward making the sprawling capital the most liberal in Latin America, following laws allowing abortion and same-sex unions." You can read more at: Mexico City Plans to Legalize Prostitution.

Joe Cross one of my teammates in Mexico City has a wonderful website with all that is going on with our ministry there. You can read his updates at Joe Cross

Categories: MexicoCity

Book List

2007-06-08T11:44:00.001-06:00

Here is a book list of some of the books I have read. This is mostly for me. I was looking at another site this week and realized I had read a book on it and I couldn't remember anything about the book. Booh!

This will be edited as I finish new books, not as quickly as I like. Updated Jan 18, 2008

Categories: Books

So far so good

2007-06-08T11:31:00.000-06:00

Today Benjamin woke up early, no breakfast or water, and we headed off to get some x-rays and see where we stand with his arm. After multiple x-rays (messed up the first take) Dr. Hunter said things look perfect and no surgery today. We go in on Tuesday for another set of x-rays and a final word on another surgery. If things stay straight, we're headed in 11 days for another cast (fiberglass). We're praying for a Gore-Tex lined waterproof cast. Ben wants blue and yellow as his color choice. We'll see.

Thanks for praying.

Categories: Family, Prayer

Official Baby Announcement

2007-06-07T11:05:00.001-06:00

These past 2 weeks have been super eventful. Jacob is such a blessing. The kids are loving and enjoying him. Even Isa is handling not being the baby anymore as long as she keeps her “princess” status.

Just this past week Benjamin had a compound fracture to his left arm and immediately had surgery to repair the broken bones.

Thank you for praying for us and partnering with us in ministry and in life.

Categories: Family, Photos, Prayer, Newsletters

Benjamin is home and the surgery went great!

2007-06-04T11:19:00.001-06:00

Benjamin came home this morning after a night of antibiotics at the hospital and some movie watching with dad. We stayed up until midnight and I'm exhausted. I think staying at home with an eight day old baby boy is easier than the hospital couch playing as a bed. I think dwarfs and hobbits could sleep well here but ogre size men like me don't do well.

Ben did awesome and was super brave. He asked me to tell everyone that he didn't cry that much. I told him when I broke my arm at 11 years old I cried more when they fixed mine. As you can see from his pre surgery shot, he was valiant. We also thought the shot with his blue hair net was pretty funny. You can also see here a x-ray of both bones broken.

Brothers and sister came today to take him home. He's playing at home and doing great. Amazing miracle of medical care. As of a week ago we had never been to the hospital. Now after Jacob's birth and Benjamin's surgery I have found all the free coffee machines. Got to love the free complimentary spouse and parent food plate. We ate well.

Friday we go in early, with an empty stomach to take x-rays and see if the bones have set well. Dr. Hunter says 1/3 of these need to be re-repaired but 2/3 have no problems. We're praying to be the 2/3. So if the bones move Benjamin will go into surgery again on Friday afternoon. Join us in prayer.

All in all I can't say thanks to the friends, neighbors and folks from our church who have watched our kids, rushed at high speeds to the Emergency room (Billy Williams in his Audi), brought us meals and just called to see if we're okay. We have never been so needy but God is teaching us to receive gifts without performing for them. I guess we haven't learned that yet.

You can also see some updated photos at Van Diest Photos of all the kids, Christine and I.

Categories: Family, Prayer, Photos

Benjamin - Compound Left Arm Fracture and Surgery

2007-06-03T17:17:00.000-06:00

Today at Church Benjamin fell off the steps, our climber, and broke both bones in his left arm and had a compound fracture as well. I think that means it broke the skin, which it did. He had surgery today at 2pm and they cleaned his bone and skin and then straightened them. I'll post those later. These shots are ER pre surgery shots. Yuck!!

Pray for him as he recovers. He's coming home Monday morning. I'm headed to the hospital for the night. We're renting some movies.

Categories: Family, Prayer

This describes my heart a bit

2007-05-29T17:22:00.000-06:00

The past few years I have tried to nail down who am I and what do I like doing. Having great team members and friends in our lives has helped confirm and validate some of our feelings and stirrings God has been tossing around inside our hearts and minds as of late. Also, moving to Greeley, CO, having some serious rest and process time and meeting new friends have shown us what we really want to do in the future. We're just not sure when; waiting on the Lord.....

One of my new great friends and neighbors is Billy Williams. He is a non-college graduate, super successful entrepreneurial businessmen. Maybe someday in the future I'll go to work for him. We talk often about business, leadership, start ups, church planting, our brokenness and the Gospel. It has been a source of life to have him in my life.

A post from Glenn Smith at New Church Initiatives caught my eye today on what goes on inside of me. Talking to Billy has also surfaced similar issues and passions in my life that he has being a entrepreneurial businessmen.

"Entrepreneurs are very interesting people. I work with entrepreneurs in both the vocational ministry world and the business world. I love them. It is true that most people perceive entrepreneurs to be "risk-takers" but I've learned that most entrepreneurs are also thoughtful planners!"

Read the whole short article at ENTREPRENEURS AND FEAR

Categories: God, Movements, Gospel, ChurchPlanting, Leadership

Some new shots

2007-05-28T16:49:00.000-06:00

Here are some updated shots on our other site: Van Diest Photos

Categories: Family, Photos

Jacob James Van Diest arrived today

2007-05-26T22:25:00.001-06:00

Today at 4:23pm Mtn Jacob James Van Diest arrived. We arrived at the hospital around 2pm and Christine was amazing as usual. Jacob is 7lbs 3oz and 20 inches long. He came out crying and has eaten and slept well. The other kids were super excited and Isa got over the initial "what in the world is happening" very quickly.

Jonathan's tender heart showed and found a great affinity for caring for Jacob. The kid are at home with me tonight, sleeping well, excited to go back to the hospital tomorrow. Another blessing was to have Christine's dad, Frank, in town with our kids today. Also our neighbors have been tremendously loving, encouraging and caring for us. When I got home to put the kids to bed Mattie, our neighbors daughter came rushing over with Kayla, another neighbor gal, to put our kids to bed and watche them. I rushed back for an hour or so to be with Jacob and Stine. What a miracle!!

Categories: God, Family, Photos

We have loved our Spring

2007-05-23T10:03:00.001-06:00

This spring has been what we needed. In our transition back to the states from Mexico we have been learning of God's blessings and love regardless and in spite of our performance. We have been at awe of God's care of our hearts, relationship and family. We moved to Greeley, CO and have been blown away by the loving neighbors and friends in our little subdivision. There are about 25 kids, half of which are homeschooled and some great parents. It never fails about 4 days out of the week about 4 families find themselves on someone's porch talking, sharing food and drink. They have loved us and brought us into their lives. Sooo good!

Early on Jonathan and Benjamin wanted to play soccer with the neighborhood kids so we joined some local teams. I was brainwashed into coaching with my good friend, Ethan. I actually find coaching these kids and being around the families as one of the most enjoyable things to do with your Saturday. God seems to always move in the lives of the kids and in the families. Soon we're going to have a wine and cheese party with about 4 other families from this team.

After moving in I asked who the family was two doors down that I never see around. It is Mitch and Ming's Mediteranean style home. They both work for Charlie Monfort, who owns the Rockies and are gone all the time at baseball games. I asked the neighborhood dads if we could get 6 of the boys and 4 dads tickets from Mitch for the Dodgers vs. Rockies game on April 19. Mitch came through and we had 10 tickets right behind, I mean first row, the Rockies dugout. During the game Mitch came over and chewed me and my boys for sitting in the owners seats and wearing Dodger Blue. I have to be loyal. I did make ammends a few weeks later by bringing Mitch a 6 pack of a local Greeley brew. We're good and will maybe even go to a future Rockies game. This time I'll wear purple.

Jonathan has a new love for football. Bless his heart. My body wears the sores and aches of a short lived high school career; blown knee, torn shoulder, fractured back and many broken fingers were all worth it. Jonathan attended a short football camp hosted by the UNC Bears. He loved it and is planning to play this coming fall.

Ali our neighbor and mom of 7 kids, 6 are homeschooled called Christine up about a month ago for a quick field trip to a local animal farm. This may have been Isa's first exposure to non-pet animals. She loved it.

Soon after this we and the neighborhood were planning a huge Easter Egg hunt in the park across from our house. But God had other plans as the weather turned cold and wet. We resorted to a Van Diest tradition of having our egg hunt indoors. You can check out this video of our adventure. Amy our good friend and adopted sister joined us for a great Easter.

Being at home, resting and taking this Sabatical is what our family and hearts needed. The boys, Isa and I have started a sporatic activity of hanging out called DWD, Down with Dad. We go get ice cream, shop, do errands or even cool activities. We're planning, baby delivery willing, to go fishing this coming week. Isa is growing and you can see many more pictures of her and the boys at Van Diest Photos. She has a spark for life and can be a fireball of sassiness. Here is a video of her running around in a box.

Recently Jonathan went with me on a trip to Gull Lake, Michigan, outside of Kalamazoo for a wedding of Joel and Ana (Arias) Schraeder. Joel was a CU student in our ministry about 13 years ago and then was on our 1st team to Malaga, Spain. Joel has been living in Spain since 1999 and is a dear friend. Here is a picture of all the people at the wedding who have lived in Spain alongside Joel. What a cool blessing of what God has done in Spain. We're so excited to see God bless them.

Jonathan was excited too because his love language is time spent and touch. We did a ton of that on the short 2 night trip. We went and saw Spidey 3, ate bad junk food, laughed, wrestled, talked and even rode behind a boat on an inner tube. Here you can see, yes a bouncy video, of Jonathan wiping out.

At the reception I realized I was getting old and that Jonathan has his mother's genes. While I talked and talked, Jonathan danced and danced. You can see that video here. Below are the new friends and relatives of Joel and Ana's that he met that weekend.

We are so grateful for the work God is doing in us. He is molding us, growing us, teaching us to love and receive love. He is resting our machines inside that have so long run hard and fast. We are learning to take each day as it comes and listen to His gentle voice.

Today Christine is 38 weeks pregnant and according to her Dr. today she could have the baby tonight or shortly there after. Man I need a nap before baby #4 comes. My guess is that my next post will be about our delivery and wonderful son.

We'll keep in touch.

To see many more photos click on Van Diest Photos

Categories: Family, Photos, God

Our Kids Love to Dance

2007-05-23T09:57:00.001-06:00

Here is a video clip of Isa Dancing. You can view the other kids in all their boogy down glory by Clicking Here.

Categories: Family, Dance

Tobin James: a piece of heaven from the Central Coast

2007-04-30T11:58:00.000-06:00

Today as I was blogging about some of the books I have been reading the brown guy that beckons on your door bringing little gems from around the planet knocked. "Sign Here," said the UPS driver. What was it? Was it the stroller or Boppy baby pillow we just bought from ebay? No, even better. It was our semi-annual gift from Tobin James Cellars. A few years back Christine, Isa (she was 6 months old) and my parents headed up to San Luis Obispo in the Central Coast of Calif. Yes, I do believe Heaven will have major acreage laid out to look like this area of Calif. I have always wanted to go wine tasting since our 8 months of living in Spain and falling in love with red wine. Our hotel front desk gal gave us advice to visit a far off vineyard in Paso Robles called Tobin James. It was a gold mine.

We fell in love with the wine, atmosphere and the great tasting room (fashioned after an old western saloon and built on an old stage coach stop). You walk in and you don't feel like a total wine ignoramous that other vineyards seem to place on your shirt. They tell you to pull up a spot at the bar and start tasting away. No 2-3 glass $5 limits here. Start at the top and work your way all the way down to the Liquid Love dessert wine. We were hooked. We joined their semi-annual wine club that ships to over 15,000 people all over the world.

Today one of those brown boxes of heavenly libations showed up. They also always throw in, to club members, a cool gift . Today we received 4 decorative plates with the Tobin James logo. That can be added to our fleece throw blanket and BBQ tongs. With the shipping it costs $145 for the gifts and the 8 bottles of wine priced over $300 at the vineyard. Not only do you get this twice a year but you can also stay in their guest house for free if you buy $200 of wine which you now get 20% off.

Call them today and maybe you can get a shipment this week. You'll just fall in love with their deep, fruity Zins. Pictured here is our favorite Zin called Ballistic. No I don't get paid for this advertisement, just sharing one of our cool little gems.

Categories: Wine, Family

Codependent No More

2007-04-30T11:42:00.000-06:00

My counselor with a smile on his face but all seriousness back a few months ago said he never labels people but I deserved a label. Then he called me a benevolant workaholic. The next day I was blessed more than others and I got another label, Codependent. I was okay with the workaholic label because is seemed stronger. The codependent label seemed week and lame. But mostly from the fact that I had no clue as to what it was.

Over the next week I read Codependent No More by Melody Beattie. I'm sure I still don't quite understand my issues but this helped me see my desire to control those around me by serving, 'loving' them, and in the process I was killing myself. I found that I tend to want affirmation and acceptance from others so I will do what ever it takes to get that from them, serve them and 'love' them so they will in turn find me valuable. I use 'love' like this because this isn't really love. It is a selfish action that is about me. Wow, what an eye opener. As I shared my thoughts of this book with others I found that many of those I know struggle with this.

This isn't a comprehensive look at the issue and comes mostly from a secular viewpoint but it is worth the read as you work on your own junk.

When People are Big and God is Small by Edward Welch was given to me by my brother-in-law, David as I was reading Beattie's book. This is a Christian perspective on fear of man and codependency. This really helped me see that God is huge.

Both were good companions to each other. I don't fully agree with all of them but they sure are worth the read.

Categories: Books, God

Redeeming Love

2007-04-30T11:32:00.000-06:00

In December I came across a fiction book called Redeeming Love (a novel) by Franine Rivers. Yeah, I know the book cover is a bit feminine but I'm okay with that. This book is a story paralleled to the story of Hosea in the Old Testament. It is a passionate story about redemption, love, forgiveness, shame and long-suffering. I cried and couldn't put it down over a 4 day period. When I was done I was challenged to love Christine, my kids and those hurting so much more. My eyes were opened by how much God loves me, cares for me and goes the extra distance to get my heart, romance me and draw me close.

For those of you who have been awed by the story of God calling the prophet Hosea to marry a prostitute, Gomer, and for those of you who just need a good redemption story this book if for you.

"Bestselling author Francine Rivers skillfully retells the biblical love story of Gomer and Hosea as a tale set against the romantic backdrop of the California Gold Rush. The heroine, Angel, is a young woman who was sold into prostitution as a child. Michael Hosea is a godly man sent into Angel's life to draw her into the Savior's redeeming love. This remarkable novel has sold over 200,000 copies and was among the top 10 on the ECPA fiction bestseller list for four years running. Now available in a fresh, contemporary cover!" from Fanatstic Fiction

Categories: Books

In the Name of Jesus

2007-04-30T11:09:00.000-06:00

About a month ago, anothe book recommended by Michael was In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen. Unfortunately I didn't discover the library at the time of this purchase but this is a keeper anyway.

This is a perfect book for Christine and myself as we're getting a chance on our 6 month rest to process life, the status of our hearts and the future God is calling us to. Nouwen was a Dutch Catholic priest and writer who died in 1996. It must be good because I have heard, "If you're not Dutch, than you're not much." Just a rumor.

This simple yet PROFOUND book of 106 pages left a mark on my heart and walk with Jesus. From the section titles you can tell this is a deeply signifcant book for any Christian.

1. From Relevance to Prayer

2. From Popularity to Ministry

3. From Leading to being Led

This hit me right where I have been after stepping down from our Mexico City leadership and moving back to the states to take care of what is important, our hearts and relationships.

Here are a few quotes to ponder:

"I am deeply convinced that the Christian leader of the future is called to be completely irrelevant and to stand in this world with nothing to offer but his or her own vulnerable self."

"When ministers and priests live their ministry mostly in their heads and relate to the Gospel as a set of valuable ideas to be announced, the body quickly takes revenge by screaming loudly for affection and intimacy."

"It seems easier to be God than to love God, easier to control people than to love people, easier to own life than to love life.....We have been tempted to replace love with power."

"....the hard truth that the servant-leader is the leader who is being led to uknown, undesirable, and painful places."

"The loud, boisterous noises of the world make us deaf to the soft, gentle, and loving voice of God."

Take an afteroon, visit your library and read this gem and expect the voice of God to catch your heart.

Categories: God, Books

Asher Lev is a great read

2007-04-30T10:46:00.000-06:00

I am posting my thoughts a few books that I have read mostly for my remembering and processing but you might appreciate this as well.

About 2 months ago my counselor Michael recommended that I read a book by Chaim Potok called My Name is Asher Lev. Asher Lev is a gifted artist, a prodigy and a Hasidic Jew. The tensions and conflict in his own heart, religion and relationships run throughout his life as he is discovering his profound gift.

A must read for those who struggle and are in process in finding who you are, what you're called to, where your significance comes from and what passions and gifts God has given you.

Recently I found that adults can be libary members too. It has probably been 30 years since I owned a library card. The Farr Libary in Greeley has rocked my socks off. I'm sure you all know this but I am such a green library member that one can just order a random book and they will find a way to get it to you, any book. So after I bought from Amazon My Name is Asher Lev I found out that Potok wrote a follow up book, The Gift of Asher Lev. So I emailed my library and they got it for me. This is a great follow up as Asher is around 40 years old, a sucessful artist, father and husband and now is dealing with the demons, issues, and wounds of his past with his religion, family, art and gifting.

You'll enjoy these two masterpieces. I was challenged in my own journey of hearing what God is calling me to do and how to deal with my own issues. Enjoy!!

Upcoming is a book I'm reading now: Emotionaly Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero, just bought by my library for me to use. The first chapter basically is a snapshot of my emotionally out of touch life. If you've been a Christian for a short or long while I encourage you to read this today. If you're frustrated with the lack of hope, life and joy you find in your walk with God, constantly struggling, constantly trying to be a better follower of God, then you're in for a good eye opener. Thanks to John Lamb for recomending this one. I'll write more later about this book.

Categories: Books, God

Why not make a difference - Lord, Bring your Kingdom

2007-04-25T21:09:00.000-06:00

The past few days I have been stirred, moved and challenged by the difference I, we, can make in the world. From the video Joe shared with me this week, from the commericals I have watched on TV, the drive arounds Greeley, CO on the "other side" of the tracks and by watching American Idol Gives Back (Idol Gives Back. A historic TV event – a two-night special on April 24 and 25 which will save and change the lives of children and young people in extreme poverty in both the USA and Africa) God has been confirming a desire in me to make a difference in my community.

About 3 years ago God began to take me a on journey of opening my eyes to His "Kingdom" work. I used to think the work of the Kingdom only had to do with making sure the message of the Gospel would get out to poeple and that would make all the difference in the world. My view of God's heart for the world was so narrow and small. With the help of many messages, Bible studies and sermons from Tim Keller at Redeemer Presb in New York and the help of Eric Swanson I saw what restoring the Kingdom is all about. Yes, it is about bringing the message of love, grace and mercy of Jesus Christ but it is also about bringing Heaven on earth. But is is also about bringing physical restoration and love where there is injustice, poverty, crime, hurt, pain and sorrow.

You probably have prayed a thousand times, "Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is heaven." This is is what the beginning of that prayer is all about. Bringing the Kingdom of heaven, all its benefits to here on earth.

So what can we do about it? We could go to Africa. I do want to go. We could head to the inner cities of the U.S. and help out. But in a simple way we could just start educating ourselves, asking the Lord in what small or big part you can take part of, and then responding to His voice and moving ahead. You don't have to be a movie, recording star to make a difference. Your small part in your neighborhood and in your city will help usher in the Kingdom.

As part of this journey I encourage you to visit this week:
-American Idol Gives Back, read up and make a donation

-Visit the One blog site founded, by I believe who will be one of the most influential Kingdom workers of our lifetime, Bono. (Buy a red ipod, cell phone, song, etc and he is always donating money toward Kingdom work and eradicating poverty and aids across the world.)

It is pretty cool what God is doing to bring about restoration in our world. The Gospel is true. His power is awesome. This could be the generation that eradicates injustice, poverty, pain and suffering like no other. We have plenty of resources, gifts and time to change the world. Believe me I feel like most of you. I don't have it together and am not qualified. But that is why Jesus died for us. He, working in us, motivating us and loving us so we can love others will answer the Lord's Prayer.

I'm not sure exactly what my future entails but I do know God has been calling us to make a difference in our community. Join us.

Categories: Family, Kingdom, Movements

I want to make a real difference

2007-04-24T19:16:00.000-06:00

A very good friend of mine, Joe Cross, who took my position in Mexico City posted this eye opening and heartbreaking post: Shocking Family Statistics about the state of family in Mexico. It breaks my heart not only for Mexico but for every community and home on this planet. This is not the way God intended life to happen for parents and little ones. The video on his post and in this post are a bit of a vision God has been giving us about families and building a Gospel centered community that brings the Kingdom of God to every city, neighborhood and home. We're praying "Thy Kingdom Come, Thy will be done."

Join us in praying this same prayer, Our Lord's Prayer for your family, neibhorhood and city.

Categories: Family, MexicoCity, Movements, Kingdom

Facebook is amazing or not

2007-04-21T12:19:00.000-06:00

I stole this video from a friend's blog, shane. I remember a conversation with a few students at CU about 6 years ago or so and I was blown away by the amount of time they spent on this new web social deal called facebook. Now it has taken over. I even have a facebook site. You can click on the link at the bottom right of this blog.

Enjoy

Categories: Movements

Prayer Updates

2007-04-18T12:48:00.000-06:00

Please Pray:

For a healthy delivery of Baby #4.
That God will lead us in our future living location and ministry.
That we will continue to take the time to rest, hear from God and allow Him to grow and challenge us.
That God will continue to lead and bless the Mexico City leadership in their efforts to reach every college student.
That we continue to grow in depth and breadth in our love for each other; experiencing the love, grace and mercy of God to each other.
For our kids as they reach out to their new friends and prepare for a new sibling.

Categories: Family, Prayer, Newsletters

Family and Future Update

2007-04-18T12:46:00.000-06:00

The past 5 weeks have been filled with the Lord's presence and many encouraging people in our lives. We can honestly say our time in Greeley, the community of believers here and the time of rest and renewal has been the richest time in our lives. Thank you for the many cards, emails and calls of love, encouragement and support during our transition back to the states and during the experience of Christine's mom's death. We know and have experienced that with the body of Christ we are loving Christ, each other and experiencing His love more deeply. Thank you!

We are about 7 weeks away from Baby #4's anticipated arrival. We think Isa finally understands that there is a baby in Christine's belly. She also feels the weight of another brother as she gave up her crib this month and graduated to a big girls bed. We are also dreaming and wishing she will say good-bye to her diapers before he is born.

What does the future hold for us? We do know that God is leading us, wooing us and exciting us for a greater future of serving Him. We do believe that we’ll be in ministry this coming fall but haven't heard from God what that will exactly be. Thank you for supporting us, loving us and giving us the time and space to hear the voice of God. Join us in praying that we will follow Him in all we do. We love you and consider it an honor to serve with you.
Categories: Family, Prayer, Newsletters

Mexico City - Movements Everywhere

2007-04-18T12:36:00.000-06:00

You all have been such a large part of our lives and ministry these past 13 years and especially this past year. We know that many of you were excited to be part of reaching each and every student in Mexico City. Even though we are not part of the team anymore and living in Mexico, we want to share with you some of the great work God is doing in the city. This following email came from our Denver, CO director and good friend, Eric, who spent a week in Mexico City. He wrote us saying:

"The fingerprints of your faith are all over this place. The Mexico City team (and helpers like us) are raising up laborers on every corner of this city. Mexican students throughout the city are ripe for the Gospel and coming to faith every day. We have found students of peace on multiple campuses who have been waiting to be empowered and sent. Thursday, Nate Hoover and I will go back to an Aeronautical Polytechnic to meet with a group of students who we surfaced today, including two, who seem to be some of the biggest influencers on campus. Some of our most unaligned Denver students are down here this week having 'a-ha' moments regarding simple movement building and life transformation groups.

My staff team has been refreshed and energized and seen the power of the Gospel. We have been reminded that we need to be people who still 'Go' to new people and places."

The following is an update from our friend in Mexico City:
"More than 110 college students and staff came to Mexico City during the month of March to believe God for launching movements at the more than 400 universities. Highly mobile ministry teams traversed the city showing up on 70 different universities. The results were amazing:

333 spiritual conversations.
226 clear explanations of the Gospel.
56 new believers.
15 new university movements launched.

One team of U.S. students invaded an engineering campus. As they searched for a movement leader, the Holy Spirit led them to a group of 6 girls that were spiritually interested. They took the opportunity to share the Gospel with them and 4 of them gave their lives to Christ.
Three days later, the team returned for follow-up. One of the girls shared that she went home after receiving Christ and immediately shared Christ with her extended family. The girls went through follow-up and now participate in two Life Transformation Groups (that include their two friends who have not yet received Christ).

The story doesn't end there. The team also surfaced a solid movement leader who was ready to start a movement and connected him with another student that came to Christ on that campus.

"AMAZING," was the word that most students used when describing their experience at the end of the week."

We, Steve and Christine, thank you for being part of the beginning of a great Kingdom work in Mexico City that will reach thousands of college students! Your partnership is making a difference.

Categories: Newsletter, MexicoCity, Prayers

Adjusting to Greeley CO- Photo Updates

2007-04-05T16:19:00.000-06:00

We're enjoying Greeley, CO and the community God has provided in our neighborhood. Here are some family shots you'll enjoy. Van Diest Photos

Categories: Family, Photos

Life Changing Weekend with Marked Men for Christ

2007-03-18T13:59:00.000-06:00

This past week, March 8-12, I headed out to San Luis Obispo, CA for a day of solitude and then to hook up with a Marked Men for Christ weekend near Pismo Beach, CA. After months of transitioning from Mexico back to the U.S. and getting settled into what God is calling us to be it was a good time to process and be alone. Immediately God began to shower me with His blessings. The connecting flight from Los Angeles to San Luis Obisipo (SLO) was the first part of heaven I experienced that that weekend. The reason I headed to SLO and not just up to some mountains in CO was that I went to school at Cal Poly SLO from 89-93 and it is by far my true love of CA. The coast, the green hills, the small town feel and community surfaced a dream to live there again.

Immediately I headed to Pismo Beach for some time on the pier. It was so healthy for me to just sit on the pier, pray, journal and praise the Lord for His love and goodness. Also in Pismo is my favorite clam chowder in Bread Bowls at the Splash Cafe. I found this little and growing hole in the wall in '89 after a morning of surfing and since then try to make an annual trek to soak in the sites and clams.

After that I cruised up the coast 10 minutes to downtown SLO, drove by my old college homes and then up to Paso Robles to stay at Tobin James Vineyard for the night. About two years ago Christine and I did some wine tasting here and have been wine club members ever since. They have a wonderful guest house out in the middle of nowhere. I did some wine tasting, sent some wine back to CO and then just read and took a nap. God was giving me the rest and process time that I needed.

One of the reasons I wanted to head out a day early was to experience the world famous SLO farmers market. There is nothing like it on the planet. It is small town America at its finest. Some of the best brisket, tri-tip and baked beans on this side of heaven. Every Thurs night there are about 3-4 thousand people just hanging out buying their farm fresh strawberries, veggies and almonds. I just love it. I remember sitting on the street eating my tri-tip kabobs sandwich and baked beans just praising God for the experience. Too many good memories to take in and in such a pretty area.

The next day I slept in and decided to drive from Paso Robles through some of the wine country to the coast near Cambria. This ends up on the world famous highway south of Big Sur and north of Morro Bay, Highway 1. I stopped by some surf spots we would frequent in college and then back into SLO for lunch on the creek; maybe even a nap.

I only had about 3 1/2 hours to eat, read, rest, shop, pray and I did find time to take a quick nap. The past month my boys have been memorizing Ps 23 and I felt like God was giving it to me specifically during this time in the central coast. What a blessing!

That night I was warned to show up to the Marked Men for Christ retreat no later than 5pm. I didn't know a soul and entered the weekend on the advice of a good friend, Michael. I didn't know what to expect but what I can say that God used the weekend, the other men and the power of His Holy Spirit to do some serious work in my life. The Holy Spirit poked and prodded and did some good healing on my heart. I am so thankful for the staff and other men for the weekend. I was even blessed to see a friend, Johnny, I haven't seen in 14 years and didn't know he was going to be there. I would encourage you to take a weekend in CO and many of the other places that Marked Men for Christ hosts their weekends to do some work with the Lord and let Him bless you beyond your greatest wishes.

Off to the airport. I arrived only 3o minutes before my flight because I forget to change my watch for daylight savings time. But the Lord blessed me again. I sat on the left side of the 30 seater plane for the flight to San Fran. Again I was blessed to see the coast. Only about 15 minutes into the flight I saw the spot I proposed to Stine in Big Sur. Then over Carmel and Monterey. The layover in San Fran allowed me to inhale some more clam chowder but also another quick view of the bay area.

I'm so grateful to the Lord for His Kindness, great mercy, love and beauty. This weekend reminded me that I love Him more than ever.

Categories: Family, God

New Family Photos

2007-03-12T10:34:00.000-06:00

Here are some recent shots of the family. Click Here

Categories: Family, Photos

Going Home

2007-03-07T16:19:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday on February 25, I (Christine) sat and listened to the words of praise and love from friends and family about my beautiful mother at her memorial service in the Presbyterian church that I grew up in. My mother, Pamela, was honored by so many and we were all there to celebrate her life. I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of people from all walks of life there to show love and support. Mom fought so courageously in her battle with lung cancer which ravaged her body for the past 2 1/2 years. Mom never complained or gave up. She had an incredible attitude of humility and perseverance. She also had a smile that was infectious to those around and portrayed her inner strength.

My mom was 60 years old and touched and impacted every individual that came across her path. My mother embraced the outcasts and would give the shirt off her back or the shoes on her feet to someone in need. My mom was attentive to the needs of everyone around her. My mom's neighbor Mr. Ali spoke at the memorial service and said my mom was his family’s best friend. Mr. Ali and his family are from Pakistan and they have lived next door for 18 years. Mr. Ali said my mom was the kindest person he knew and was the best Christian he had ever met.

My (Christine) prayer in the 2 weeks prior to mom's death was that I wanted to be with my mom holding her hand when she died. I kept asking the Lord, begging the Lord when is the right time to go and see her again. How long did she have left? After speaking to my twin sister, Jennifer, Mom's husband Larry and the Hospice nurse, I realized that mom didn't have much time. My mom was unable to speak, eat or move. After I got off the phone , Isabela and I were on our way to the airport. We arrived Monday night and mom passed Wed. noon. I am grateful that I was there on her bed holding her hand just as I had asked the Lord. It was surreal, but so peaceful and intimate. There were about 5 of us in the bedroom when mom took her last breath and finally went home.

My mother loved the Lord. I know she is with the Father in Heaven singing, dancing, laughing and loving and being loved. That comforts me. Mom's precious body was ravaged by the cancer but now she has a new body. I will miss her so but the precious memories and the strength of her character and legacy will always be alive in me.

Categories: God, Family, Prayer, Newsletters

Waiting on the Lord

2007-03-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

We are extremely grateful to the Lord and our Campus Crusade leadership for giving us this time to rest, restore and ultimately wait on the Lord for our future. We are seeing God poke and prod in our hearts, relationships, leadership and passions. At first it was super difficult to come home from a dream and vision that God gave us in Mexico but we see the hand of God develop us through His grace and mercy. God is restoring us, His children.

We can't say "Thank You!" enough for praying for us, your encouraging notes, phone calls and continued generous support. Your commitment to God's Kingdom work is evident in your faithfulness and love toward us. We know that apart from your partnership, encouragement and gifts and God’s presence we could not have transitioned as we have.

Gordon MacDonald says this, "The freest person in the world is one with an open heart, a broken spirit, and a new direction in which to travel." We believe that describes where we are. We are experiencing a depth with the Lord that has been so good. Just as Simon Peter was transformed through his broken world experience after denying Christ 3 times, Peter later became a rock for the Lord. We are learning that in pain and brokenness, God is defining our character and courage. It is humbling but restorative and good. Please know that you are a blessing to us and We Love You!

Steve and Christine
Categories: God, Family, Newsletters