Friendship "Zach"

The questions I've been pondering about friendship have really become important questions for me.  And I believe yours and my answers to these questions can really help us discover and determine who are real friends are... or at least who we should allow into that inner circle.  The infamous "circle of trust" that we hear talked about on "Meet The Parents."  This next guy I want to introduce you to has alot of qualities I look for in a friend.  However when it comes to the questions on friendship that I have been asking this particular question makes me think of Zach Sikora.  The question is: "Who in your life, when you are not around and someone is speaking against your character, will stick up for you when no one else will.  Let me just say, I see this all the time.  It's amazing how open people get when the people they are talking about are not around.  It has always impressed me to see people stick up for those who are not there.  Those who are being talked about.  They stand up for their friend and their friends character and that to me is HUGE.  Zach is like that.  As a matter fact the story goes like this:  Zach and Liz[his wife] were out for dinner and someone who knew Natalie and I came up to them and started saying things that were not true about us and attacking our character.  I believe it was Zach who quickly let that person know that not only is their information inaccurate but did not appreciate the things they were saying!  WOW.  That is awesome and that really made me feel good to know my friend had my back.  That is a true friend.  People are always going to talk behind your back but few people will make waves and correct the gossip.  When you find someone who will do that you have found a true friend.  That is courage and respect and I would return the favor for Zach in a heartbeat.  Zach, thanks for always being there to talk and for caring enough to know me in such a way that when someone speaks against my character you have the courage to respond to them.  Love you bro and praying for you.  Your a true friend.

Friendship "Jason"

The third question about friendship I want to respond to is: "Who in your life is more concerned about what is best for you instead of what is best for them?"  I have a lot of friends that stand out when it comes to this question but I thought of one guy in particular that I want to take a moment and tell you about.  His name is Jason Sfire and we have been friends for about two years.  Something I have noticed about our friendship is how Jason always puts my needs before his.  I can't tell you how many times I have needed him to just drop something and come help me out.  Even in the midst of what he needed to do he dropped what he was doing and put me before himself.  It seems like he puts my well being before his own or at least as important as his own.  Without fail, I know that if I need something I can call Jason and he will be there.  I believe what makes this friendship trait effective is selflessness.  When it comes to our friendship Jason responds in a selfless way.  Rarely is he asking the question what is in it for me but he is simply being there as a friend.  That is awesome.  Jason, I have continued to say thank you for the things you have done and the way your friendship has impacted my life but I will never be able to thank you enough.  You are a true friend and I want you to know I will always be there to put your needs above my own... Thanks again and I love you bro.

Friendship "My Dad"

Ok so I didn't keep up with this each day this week but I want to continue answering these questions on friendship by using people in my life that I feel are the living answers to these questions.  The second question on friendship was "Who in your life is there for you no matter what and will always be there even if they don't agree with your life decisions?"  I know this will sound pretty lame but to me it is so true.  My dad [and Mom] totally fulfill this role in my life.  When I was growing up my parents were clearly my parents.  Not like parents today who try to be friends with their kids.  My mom and dad were my mom and dad.  However as I've grown up my dad and I have become friends.  He was my best man in my wedding and I will always consider him one of my best friends.  Having said that, he has not always agreed with the decisions I make.  Doesn't mean he doesn't love me or isn't proud of me just means he doesn't always agree.  I remember the time I was leading a youth service and I farted in the microphone... It got alot of laughs from the kids in my group but my dad was sitting in that night and did not think that was funny or wise.  But he loved me through it.  That is huge.  I know as a parent that is expected but I also see that quality in him as a friend. What it boils down to is trust.  My dad trusts in the person I am therefore he is trusting that even when I make a discision he doesn't completely agree with he trusts me enough to support me in the midst of it. Dad, you will never know how much I love you and how huge of a hero you are in my life.  Thanks for supporting me and being there for me even when you didn't always agree with my choices.  I love you dad.

Friendship "Mike"

I decided to take this week and share some thoughts on friendship. I am going to answer 6 questions on friendship by using some of my friends as examples. The first question I asked was, "Who in your life celebrates your success's even when they are experiencing something different?" When I think about this question and who in my life is really good at this I think of my friend Mike Fredieu. Talk about a true friend! I can honestly say that every time I experienced something awesome in my life, even though he may not have liked the place he was at in life, or wished the same thing was happening to him, he was always able to celebrate with me. He genuinely was excited that good things were happening for me. He has always been like that. I would consider a Mike a true friend for many reason's but one thing that really sticks out in my mind about him is simply how much he enjoys seeing me succeed. That is hard to find and I truly value that in our friendship. I may not tell you often enough Mike, but thank you for being a true friend and know that I will always respond the same way. Thanks my friend!

"Friendship"

Just thought I would take some time this week and highlight a few friends of mine.  The reason I decided to do this is because lately I'm really discovering who my "true" freinds are.  As I discover that truth I am also aware of some characteristics that make them "true" friends.  Each friend brings to the table different characteristics of friendship that I have been learning a lot from.  In the process of discovering who my "friends" are I am discovering those who really are not my "friends."  I have always given people the benefit of the doubt when it comes to relationship but I honestly believe that in and of itself may be foolish when it comes to those you "let in" to that inner circle.  Here are some questions I'm asking:

1.  Who in your life celebrates your success's even when they are experiencing something different?

2. Who in your life is there for you no matter what and will always be there even if they don't agree with your "life" decisions.

3.  Who in your life will be honest with you even when you don't want to hear it. [But still give you the freedom to make your own choices]

4.  Who in your life is more concerned about what is best for you instead of what is best for them?

5.  Who in your life when you are not around and someone is speaking against your character will stick up for you when no one else will?

6.  Who in your life understands your weaknesses and still calls you friend?

These are just a few questions I have been pondering and over this week would like to answer each of those questions with someone in my life who seems to be that kind of friend.  Doesn't mean that is the only trait they have just means it's one they are really good at.  Friendship is important and for me it's something I have taken way to lightly...  

So over the next few days let me introduce you to some "Friends" of mine.

Just a fun tribute to moms out there and a huge thank you to my wife who is one of the greatest moms I know.  Alexia and Cayden you are very blessed to have a mom like your mom.

Christmas Trash

..Wow, I was amazed today as I drove around town the day after Christmas. I saw this family carrying bags and bags of christmas trash out to the curb where there was already at least 8 full bags of trash. Empty Christmas box's, wrapping paper, and food plates that were obviously signs of an amazing Christmas. Or was it. I love Christmas and I love getting gifts. I also enjoy watching my kids get the things they have wanted and have asked Santa for. However in the midst of it for whatever reason I'm reminded that no matter how much we get we will always want more. My kids are very grateful for what they get but sometimes I wonder if they "get" to much. When the comment made after opening a great Christmas present is, "do I have more presents to open?" something is wrong. [I had a talk with her by the way] It's not her fault, I think it's natural for us to want things and enjoy getting things. I just wish we/I gave more. I wish it was natural to want only what we need and give more to the needs of others. It's trendy lately to be green, to give more to those in need, and to support those attacking social injustice but will it really change the selfish nature in all of us? On a scale of 1 to 10 how are you doing in the area of self. If 1 is selfish and 10 is selfless then where are you? How do we truly die to self when everything around us screams self. I see it in me, and I don't like it. I see it in my kids and don't like it... has the abundance of things cause the problem to be greater... and would having less make us more thankful and giving...?

Control Freak!

Just wanted to take a minute and update everyone on my son.  A lot of you have been praying for him and checking in on him and that has been overwhelming and kind.  You will never know how much that has meant to us.  Cayden was diagnosed with pneumonia a few weeks ago and is now doing much better thanks to your prayers.  The big thing that we were worried about was the small seizures/convulsions he was having.  The doctor's had him go through an e.e.g. which is a test that monitors him while he is sleeping.  That test came back negative, meaning he passed with flying colors.  They have basically said he is fine and doesn't need any further testing at this point.  Thanks again for the prayers.  I discovered something about God through all this.  If you have kids you will understand what I'm about to describe to you.  When your kids are sick, you feel HELPLESS!!  I so wanted to take his place through this process.  I wanted to control the situation and make it better but I couldn't.  I felt like I was not able to protect him and that really bothered me.  I was fighting for control and God is giving His up.  Let me explain.  God could control us if he chose to but he doesn't.  He gives us the freedom to choose and therefore relinquishes control.  I don't have it and want it... He has it and chooses not to use it.  It has to be so hard for him to watch us make decisions that ultimately hurt us and others when He could step in at any moment and change it... If I had the control I long for would I even come close to making the right decisions with it...

Every Monday Matters[3]

Just getting back into the gym for the first time in months... Definitely lacking the motivation.  One thing about working out that a lot of people forget about it is that you have to also eat healthy if you are going to really benefit from the work out.  Here are some tips for healthy eating.

"Eat Healthy" Monday 03

FACTS: French fries are the most widely eaten vegetable...

- Annual cost for chronic conditions and diseases is big money:

$117 billion for obesity

$66 billion for high blood pressure

$432 billion for heart disease and strokes

$50 billion for weight-loss aids, diet foods, supplements, and weight-loss medications

   yet obesity is still increasing.

- 79% likelihood exist that an overweight child will become an overweight adult.

- 75% of adults don't eat the recommended daily 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables.

- Snack consumption by children has increased 300% from 20 years ago.

- 400,000 people die annually from poor eating habits and laziness.

TAKE ACTION TODAY:

1. If you suffer from or have a family history of any of the aforementioned chronic conditions or diseases, consult your family physician for dietary counseling.

2. Although every individual is unique in his or her dietary needs, here are some ideas to help:

- Eat fewer foods with refined grains and sugars; reduce your intake of fatty foods; and eat smaller portions.

- Eat more dark vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains, low-fat milk products, and lean   meats.

- Eat slowly so that you will feel full before you've overeaten.

- Don't reward yourself or children with food.

- Develop a routine and eat at similar times each day.

- Drink plenty of water.

- Limit snacking.

3. Eat to live; don't live to eat.

YOU MATTER

You deserve to be in good health.  For most, diabetes, hypertension, and other obesity related chronic diseases are preventable by simply eating healthy and exercising.  You will feel better than ever both mentally and physically-the only way to really live.  If you don't want to do it for yourself or your wallet, do it for those who love you.  Just start...one day at a time.

"The Encounter"

For those of you who are not located in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, The Encounter may be something new to you.  The Encounter is Community Worship night that happens twice a year. We started this event over 4 years ago with the heart to see God's Church come together for worship.  Not just the local church but the Church big "C."  This is video footage from the last Encounter in September.  Just to celebrate what God is doing I thought I would post this.  We had over 42 church's represented at this event with 8 worship pastors on stage, from 8 different church's, leading those people in worship.  It was such an amazing night.  We do have the potential to be the answer to Jesus prayer when he prayed in John 17:11 "so they may be one as we are one."  What would happen if the mavericks out there stopped trying to do ministry by themselves and linked arms with men and woman from church's in their community to not only worship together, but live life together. Yes, the local church is still God's plan to reach our world... but it goes further than that.  It has to. It's about the Church coming together like never before... or the Church coming together like "before"...