My Thoughts – 10.29.09

Some random thoughts on a fall day in Indiana.

I think that although I LOVE Indiana, I would really like it if our weather got no colder than it is right now. I wish our winters were more mild.

I think that gas prices are going crazy again. I paid over $3 a gallon yesterday. Yikes! How is that not price gouging again??

I think that the leaf colors have been beautiful this fall! Wow. I do really miss getting to Brown County with Kim. I need to make time to do that.

I think that the COLTS are finally fielding a full team…Offense, Defense & Special Teams. Lookout NFL. Peyton is in a serious zone.

I think that the Westside Market in Cleveland absolutely ROCKS! We are headed to Cleveland for concerts this weekend and I am looking forward to cruising the market.

I think that “You, You Are God” from Gateway is an awesome worship song. I am loving it right now.

I think that this Christmas at MPCC is going to be fabulous. I am excited about it!

There you have it…..have a great day everybody!!

My Random Thoughts – 9.14.09

Here are some of my random thoughts on a beautiful fall day in Indiana.

I think that this time of year is absolutely beautiful in Central Indiana. Bright sunshine, blue skies and soon, the leaves will begin to change. Beautiful!

I think my wife Kim is amazing! She manages to work full-time for Tabor Ministries during the week, travel most weekends to minister and is still an amazing wife, friend and partner in ministry. I love her. Plus she is a red-hot stone cold fox and makes a fabulous loaf of pumpkin bread (among other things).

I think that I am astonished by how little attention the Colts are getting from the national media. Changes, yes. New personnel, absolutely. But the Colts have had a run of elite winning seasons rarely seen in professional sports, especially the NFL. Are the Patriots the only team that gets the benefit of the doubt? Come on! On my way to work I listened to at least 4 ESPN updates of yesterday’s NFL action and NONE OF THEM EVEN MENTIONED THE COLTS GAME. Get serious. It may not be a cakewalk for them this year but last time I checked Peyton Manning was still the starting quarterback, correct? As long as he is under center and Reggie Wayne is catching passes we have a great chance. Plus, can you say defense? Wow, I know it’s only been 1 game but the Colts defense made the Jaguars look like a horrible offensive team yesterday. It was only close because of a couple of turnovers.

I think that our new sermon series, “What’s Your Story” is going to be powerful! We are doing some of the most strategic and intentional worship planning I have ever been a part of in my career and we are believing that God is going to do amazing things as people get real and share their stories. Follow the link and select Video Testimonies to see the videos we’ve done so far.

I think that Israel Houghton’s new album “The Power Of One” is outstanding. Most of it is going to be very hard to pull off in the local church setting but it is an amazing CD.

I think that if you are a terrible driver you should take all Christian related materials off of your vehicle. No Jesus fish, no bumper stickers and no “In God We Trust” license plate. Seriously, you are giving us bad press! And, for the record, this is precisely why I don’t have any of those things on my car!

I think that turn signals are an important part of the driving partnership. Use them.

I think that our MPCC team did an outstanding job this weekend. Band, Choir, Vocal Team, and especially Tech Team – all were outstanding! Putting the Worship Center back together after a week of construction, starting a new church wide emphasis and launching a new Video Venue service all in the same week….are you serious? That is A LOT and they did it like the true professionals that they are. Way to go team – YOU ROCK!!

I think that the Cardinals experienced a small hiccup this weekend. You don’t run through the national league like they have over the last 3 months and call it a fluke. They will rebound and make serious noise in the playoffs.

I think that my family is absolutely awesome! Mom & Dad came to visit this weekend and they ALWAYS rock a couple of bags of BBQ Grippo’s from Evansville for us. Thanks guys!

What are your random thoughts today??

My Thoughts – 7.6.09

 

Me in front of the Dolphin Resort fountain, Walt Disney World

Here are some of my random thoughts on a beautiful July day in Indiana.

I think that corn dogs are near the top of my list of perfect food.

BBQ Baby Back Ribs are also near the top of that list.

I still think that adults should get summer vacation.

I think that Albert Pujols is going to go down in history as the most feared right-handed hitter of all time. I was at the Cards-Reds game this past Friday night (Thanks so much TJ & Judas!!). Top of the 8th inning, 3-0 Reds. Cards only have 3 hits at this point. Poor pitching by the Reds loads the bases for Albert. Gonzo. Granny gives the Cards the lead 4-3. Reds tie the game in the bottom of the 8th. Top of the 9th, Albert hits an RBI double. Cards lead 5-4 and go on to win 7-4. His stats are staggering.

I think that I am a blessed man. Today is my birthday. It’s 10:34 AM and so far I have gotten birthday wishes from nearly 200 people. That is completely overwhelming to me.

I think a lot about the song “I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin. Cannot wait for the MPCC Worship Choir to be back in session. We will blow the roof off with that song in the fall.

I think that Disney World is just about the most perfect place on earth. I am a total Disney addict.

I think that there is a disconnect in our country regarding the issue of patriotism and how it relates to faith. I believe we can sing songs like “God Bless America” and “America The Beautiful” as worshipful prayers to the Lord. I believe that recognizing those who have sacrificed their lives in service should happen in our worship services. They have fought to preserve our religious freedoms (among many others) and I think that in honoring them we are worshipping the Lord and giving thanks to HIM for the freedom to worship. By honoring these people we are showing the Love of Christ to our fellow citizens. In John 15:13 Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” Though he was talking in a different context that is still a tremendous spiritual truth and these precious people deserve our gratitude for living that verse out, no matter your political ideology.

By the way, the birthday greeting list is now up to 250….it’s 10:53 AM. Again, I am completely blessed and overwhelmed.

I think it is time to go to lunch and enjoy some great Mexican food. Tonight, Dave & Busters with friends!!

Thanks for reading and for all the great birthday wishes Friends!! I would love to get your thoughts on any of the above thoughts………

My Thoughts – 6.15.09

Here are some random thoughts on an overcast Indiana day……..

I think that my wife makes the best brownies in the whole world.

I think that having technology at our fingertips makes life both easier and more challenging.

I think that diets make life interesting. I have been on a self-imposed diet for about 16 days now. I am seeing progress and that feels great. 

I think Twitter is very cool and, by the way, you can follow me @brianltabor. The downside is that just like with anything else, there are knuckleheads out there that work to ruin it for everybody else. I have gotten some followers with names & pictures that would curl your toes.

I think that going for a long bike ride with Kim on my day off is just about as good as it gets.

I think that this scripture is amazing:  “The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” (Exodus 14:14)

I think that Albert Pujols will finish his career as a St. Louis Cardinal and will go down in history as one of the best and most feared right-handed hitters of all time.

What are you thinking??

My Random Thoughts – 4.2.09

Here are some random thoughts on a cool & rainy April day in Indiana.

Greek Belly Dancer, Santorini's Greek Kitchen - Indianapolis

I think that for some reason I am becoming addicted to Greek food. No idea why, I just can’t seem to get enough. Check out the moves from this belly dancer from last Friday night at Santorini’s Greek Kitchen in Indy. Seriously, put that up there with one of my all-time least favorite jobs. There is literally no way I would do this.

I think that the beach is calling. I just seem to relax on the beach at levels that I can’t reach in other places. Heading into Easter the work pace is catching up with me.

I think that it is time for baseball season and I am stoked. Go Cards! Go Pujols!

I think this weekend at MPCC is going to be dynamic and powerful. All acoustic with strings, acoustic guitars, piano & percussion. I am excited about it and am praying that God will us it to impact lives as we talk about Jesus’ final words from the cross.

I think that I love spring. I cannot wait to play golf. There is something very healing about time outside chasing a little white ball around.

I think well, actually I know that I could eat an entire bag of Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs in one sitting. That is horrible and I know that I would feel horrible physically after doing it. But still, it calls to me!

I think that good friends that you can trust with your innermost thoughts are very rare and hard to find. I am grateful for mine.

I think that this lyric is just about as good as it gets (from “This Is Our God” by Travis Cottrell):

Who is this One who will not condemn us? Why would He come to shoulder our sentence?
Nothing we’ve done will keep Him from giving us grace.
Who is this One? We watch and we’re speechless. God’s only Son embracing our weakness.
He overcomes all death and He frees us to live.

This is our God, suffering an dying. Call Him the Hero redeeming the lost.
This is our God, love sacrificing, all that is holy accepting our cross.

Hallelujah, this is our God!

 I think that the longer I live the more important my family is to me.

I think that time management is a crucial skill to learn in ministry. Without it you will not survive.

I think that this dude is scary talented. I mean a genuine freak-of-nature and God given musical genius. I leave you with Raul Midon singing, “State Of Mind.” Enjoy and if you take the time to watch it you will not be sorry (total run time is 3:45).

My Thoughts – 3.11.09

I know it’s been a while since I’ve written. Somewhere between a new job, a long commute and life in general it’s been a very busy few weeks. Life really does get busy doesn’t it? Just writing these first 2 lines I have had to stop and answer 7 emails and 4 text messages. Seriously, life is really busy these days for all of us!

Here are some of my thoughts…..

Heaven on earth.....

 

 

 

I think that the Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs that come out before Easter are absolutely the perfect candy. I always enjoy a good Reese’s peanut butter cup but there is just something about the Easter version that takes me to a new level. I’m not sure what it is. I also enjoy the other seasonal shapes but the Easter one, for my money, is the absolute best!

I think that Matt Maher is a phenomenal songwriter, worship leader and performer. He has given The Church songs like “Your Grace Is Enough,” “For Your Glory,” “Resurrection Day,” “On The Third Day” and “As It Is In Heaven” among many, many others. If you ever have the chance to see him live I would highly encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity. You will be blessed and encouraged.

I think that our team at MPCC is really developing and that blesses me. I am grateful to work with wonderful people and I believe that God has great things in store! We are talking about values that we embrace as a team….things like Preparation, Communication, Teamwork, Community and many others. I can see people investing themselves and I am grateful for that.

I still think that Chick-fil-A is the perfect restaurant. Great quality food prepared in-house at a great price…are you kidding me? What else do you need? This place rocks. Bonus: there is one less than 5 miles from MPCC!

I think that the Cardinals have a chance to be good this year. All signs point to Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright being healthy and anchoring the starting rotation. Plus, anytime you have Albert Pujols (the reigning NL MVP) in your line-up you have a serious chance. El Hombre (AP) will be on the cover of Sports Illustrated this week and I cannot wait to read the article. You can read a sample here.

I think that the move Juno is great and entertaining. Now, before I go any further understand this: it is not a Christian movie. They most likely will not be showing it at churches. Having said that, it offers some great alternatives to unfortunate situations. There are also some incredible one-liners that will really stick with you.  

I think this season of 24 rocks! Jack Bauer is keeping us on the edge of our seat as we watch. He’s also delivered some great one-liners this year too. He is one bad man.

I think that my wife Kim absolutely knocked the ball out of the park last weekend in her first featured speaking gig ever. She worked very hard to prepare and God used her in an incredible way. I am so proud of her and proud of the Woman of God she is becoming!

My Thoughts – 2.4.09

A collection of random thoughts…….

I think that the day of the Super Bowl can be a blast. Time with friends, good food and football – what a day! The commercials were sort of disappointing to me this year though. Seriously, enough with the horses on those beer commercials. That has played. But, the Dorito’s commercials were great.

I still think that Facebook is awesome. Connecting with friends from the past and present is something I really enjoy. I recently crossed the 1,000 friend threshold, which is exciting.

I think that the Indianapolis Colts need some tremendous defensive upgrades. Their choice of a new Defensive Coordinator is crucial.

I think it has been at least 6 months since I have been to a movie theater. That bums me out because I enjoy movies, but I just haven’t had the time.

I think that January is an unfortunate time of year to begin a 35-mile work commute. That’s 35 miles – one way. We have had an unusual amount of heavy snowfall, which has made driving interesting to say the least.

I think that even though the drive is challenging, God has great days in store at Mt. Pleasant. Great team and a strong foundation to build upon. Plus, an awesome staff to work with. We are dealing with overcrowding in services, which is awesome.

I think that I want to invest in a good smoker. Smoked meat is awesome. I can imagine smoking chicken, ribs, turkey, brisket….this is making me hungry.

I think it is a shame that more churches don’t know the song “This Is Our God” by Travis Cottrell. There are several other songs by that title that get all the press. This song is a hidden gem.

I think “24″ is awesome. Great action and good acting by Kiefer Sutherland this year. I also think that “Fringe” (FOX) is a great new show. I also love “The Office,” “30 Rock” & “Life” (NBC). I really miss “Seinfeld”, “The King of Queens” & “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Classic moments in those shows man….

I think my wife is awesome for making yet another dream come true – tickets to see the Eagles coming up on March 22!

I think my friend Terry Hayes can whale on the guitar. He is a rock star and I am grateful to have him with me at MPCC. I love it when he takes the lead and rocks a solo on songs like “Everlasting God” & “Hosanna.” It really blesses my worship!

I think dogs are awesome. If you know me at all you know that I really love my dog, Sophie. She makes me laugh. Personality plus with this dog…..and she knows it!

I think that G.D. Ritzy’s is a perfect burger joint. I grew up with them in Evansville and every now and then just have to have it! Great burgers, fries & ice cream. I wish I had the coin to bring one to Indy. I would locate it very close to my house! Double Ritz with cheese, fries and a scoop of O-O-Oreo to finish it off. Wow!

I think Saturday Night Live has had some good moments recently. Nothing like the glory days but I think they need to keep the Digital Shorts coming.

I think (actually I know) I am still addicted to Chick-fil-A. It is awesome. There is also a new addiction forming….Long’s Donuts in Greenwood. Can’t do it that often but this place rocks. Thanks to Cheri Bate for the introduction!

My Thoughts – 12.2.08

Here are some random thoughts on a snowy Indiana Tuesday……

I think that snow is beautiful….for about 4 days. Then I am tired of shoveling it, driving in it and dealing with it. I have no idea where this snowy picture was taken but it looked like a cool place to walk during one of my 4 days of enjoying snow.

I think that Thanksgiving is absolutely my favorite holiday. I mean really, an entire day devoted to eating and family…what could be better than that?

I think that one of the most powerful worship songs ever written is “In Christ Alone” by Keith Getty. Powerful. Those are words that you can really sit and think about. Very rich.

I think that the Colts could actually end up making some serious noise in the playoffs this year. I also am pretty sure I will owe Steve Adams a lunch when they reach 10 wins on December 14 vs. the Lions. Steve believed from the beginning and I had my doubts. That is a lunch I will be glad to buy. How many White Castle sliders can you eat, Steve??

I think that Kim is wonderfully gifted at making our house feel like Christmas. I must admit that putting up Christmas decorations is one of my least favorite things to do in the whole world. But Kim perseveres, puts up with my attitude and gets the job done. I love the finished product.

I think I have found the perfect spaghetti. Bravo serves Spaghettini Bolognese, which for my tastes is absolute perfection.

I think that the Church has to learn to adapt more quickly. I’m not talking about watering down our message in any way, but I do think that we have to find creative ways to be more culturally relevant. I really believe that will be our next huge challenge. The culture keeps changing and we keep doing things the same way. Is it any wonder that most churches aren’t growing?? Same message – new methods. That’s the target I want to head for.

I think XM radio rocks. We have it in both of our vehicles and love it. Right now there are 3 stations dedicated to different styles of all Christmas music. I love the classics. Call me crazy but those classic arrangements really take me back….

I just got a Blackberry Curve and I think I am really going to like it.

I think our schedule this week is going to absolutely wipe me out. It goes something like this: (1) FCN through Thursday; (2) Friday drive to Cleveland; (3) Saturday TM gig in Warren, OH; (4) Drive home to Indy; (5) Sunday AM & PM worship services at FCN; (6) Monday drive to Chicago; (7) Monday night TM gig in Chicago; (8) Tuesday morning drive home to Indy; (9) Back to the office Tuesday afternoon. Man, I need a nap after just writing that down.

I think that Christmas has major potential for outreach. I am praying that the Lord will use HIS Church in a major way this Christmas to reach many people.

Your Thoughts??

My Thoughts – 10.22.08

The church world is very interesting. The highs are extremely high. The lows….well, they are equally as low. It makes me think a lot about what we might be capable of if we were to ever get on the same page. I mean all of us, on the same page, working toward the same goals on behalf of The Kingdom. Can you imagine that? No arguments over worship style, music volume or choir robes. No time wasted on complaining or gossiping. No debates over doctrine. Just purely driven to build The Kingdom. Wow. Powerful.

What would that take besides a series of earth shattering miracles? A good place to start would have to be all of us taking our eyes off of ourselves and focusing on our mission. I’m saying that to myself as well. What is our mission? What are we to be about? How much time do we spend on non-essentials? 

I once heard a Sunday School teacher say, “Folks, when in doubt, trust the red letters.” This is, of course, referring to the passages in the Bible that are direct quotes of Jesus Christ. So, let’s go to the red letters to answer this question of mission. One day a religious teacher stood by listening to Jesus teach. He asked Jesus, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” (Mark 12:28 NLT). This is what Jesus said:

The most important commandment is this: Hear O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. The second is equally important…Love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.  
(Mark 12: 29-31 NLT)

I love how straight forward that answer is. Jesus didn’t mess around being politically correct. He told us exactly what HIS priority list of ministry was. Trust the red letters.

A friend of mine brought me a Starbucks cup a few weeks ago. Ever since it has been sitting on my desk. On the cup is a poem by the Canadian author Desi Di Nardo. I know nothing about her and my experience is limited to this lone, thought provoking poem. I read it every day. It has caused me to think about this subject a lot and to even write this blog. I hope that you will take a few seconds to read it and think about it, especially in the context of mission. It charges us to set our preferences aside. I leave you today with, “The Way I See It,” by Desi Di Nardo:

The way I see it
isn’t necessarily
the way you see it
or the way it is
or ought to be
What’s more important
is that we’re all
looking for it
and a way to see it

My Thoughts

Summer is quickly coming to an end so it’s time for some random thoughts……

I think that I am going to try to smoke some meat on Monday. I also think that I will need to do some research before I am ready for that. We are trying ribs and maybe a turkey breast.

I think that the guy who just stained my deck has taken me to the cleaners.

I think that the music at church this Sunday is really going to jam and while most of the people at church will enjoy the chance to worship with this kind of music, there will be a few who won’t. 

I think that the Big Peach in Bruceville, IN (near Vincennes, IN) has amazing produce. We have been enjoying some of it this week after stopping there on Monday. It’s one of those awesome old roadside produce stores in Southern Indiana. You can actually eat a peach that was just picked that morning….very cool! Plus they have all kinds of other stuff to eat like homemade jams and apple butter. Any time we go south we are all about the Big Peach! You can find it right on Hwy 41 just north of Vincennes.

I think that I am enjoying the process of blogging. I have things on my mind and this is a great way to share them with friends and family.

I think that the Cardinals should fold their tents and concentrate on next year. Without pitching you cannot win.

I think that the Colts have a chance to make some real noise this year. How cool would it be to break in Lucas Oil Stadium with another title? That would be so awesome.

I think that my assistant, Shirley Spangler is an incredible cook! This may be seen as a shameless attempt to manipulate another invitation to her house for dinner. While I take issue with the word shameless, that’s exactly what this is! She can cook anything including amazing pies and homemade dinner rolls. She rocks!

I think that I’m ready for lunch. What will it be today? No Chick-fil-A on the eastside of Indy, which is a bummer. Thanks for your comments on yesterdays blog by the way. 

I think it’s time to get back to work……have a great day.