Have you ever had one of those DEFINING MOMENTS that could have passed you by? I had a subtle reminder of the power of teamwork leading up to the Easter weekend 2008.
Due to the amazing growth in our preschool age group, we determined we needed to add another ‘yard’ beginning the Easter weekend (a ‘yard’ is like a class space, but open and surrounded by murals and fencing to create an open atmosphere for experiencing God… see pic below!). Before the fence was installed, I noticed some of the panels were chipped. I notified Eric (our kid’s main-main) about the fence over lunch. Eric’s response: “Yes, I noticed that too… I’m on it!” I loved that response. Then, Trey (who was also at lunch) told me how he had been with Eric while EVERY one of our staff made the same observation about the fencing… And, Eric gave the same response each time!
LEADERSHIP LESSONS A-PLENTY:
First of all, the entire team felt the freedom to inspect each other’s area without TURFISM. That’s huge. Eric wasn’t defensive. Also, he gave the same kind, patient response each time.
I truly believe it’s the small things that make all the difference… I’m so grateful for these subtle, defining moments!
I love this picture from Easter… absolutely love it.
It’s by no means a perfect picture. I have a goofy look, like I just did something wrong (not beyond the realm of possibility). Beck is trying his best to leap out daddy’s strong arms, and Ellie is enjoying the whole scene. Ava is unusually serene. Susan and Georgia are pretty perfect, but I think you get the point. I love my funny, abnormal, crazy family.
The talk: My passion for Keystone this Easter was was that we would recognize the need for every person to encounter a REAL experience with Jesus through the Holy Spirit. This is what I meant by the SHIFT from WHAT WAS to WHAT IS… If Jesus is indeed ALIVE, then ‘HE IS.’ He stands ready to empower your life with the fruit of the Spirit that blossom regardless of life’s circumstances.
The Spirit: Wow. Each gathering was doing their best to be the most excited! I think everyone rushed to Cheesecake Factory to eat a piece of Chocolate Truffle Tower Cake!!! (confused? Get the podcast!). What an atmosphere of worship! The VOLS were AMAZING… early to serve, great attitudes! We DOUBLED our number of volunteers for this weekend… WOW.
The changed lives: The baptisms were inspiring. Pics coming soon! I was able to baptize Ellie, my 7 year old! SEVERAL people made the SHIFT for the first time and prayed to invite Jesus into their hearts. Over 1300 people attended this weekend, and that means LOTS OF LIVES CHANGED!!! Thank you, Keystone family… you invited, you served!!! I pray we put a massive smile on the face of Jesus this weekend.
This weekend we’re taking our campus to the NEXT LEVEL in a couple of ways:
First, we have an OVERFLOW VIDEO VENUE for our 3 Sunday services, which will allow us to welcome everyone onto our campus without turning anyone away… I’m PUMPED about it. It will be a more relaxed environment that will seat about 50 people. We’re serving drinks and it will be a great ‘family atmosphere.’
Second, we’re adding a ‘yard’ in our LITTLE CAMPERS area (preschool). This will relieve some of the crowding that resulted from such explosive growth among our little cuties!
Finally, we’re always increasing our effectiveness in all areas of excellence and creativity. This weekend will be a MODEL for an AMAZING first-time experience for all of our guests.
why does the world need another blog? my staff has been prodding me to get in the game, my wife (Susan) has been gently urging me to exercise my ‘writing’ muscles for years… so, after much procrastination, i’m going to give this blog thing a shot!
i’m pretty excited about sharing my thoughts that i have regarding my messages, leadership, family, and becoming more like Jesus. i just hope someone will read this stuff! (btw, are we in for the ‘e.e. cummings style’ or should i be normal?)
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You are currently browsing the Brandon Thomas weblog archives for the month March, 2008.
