Apologies for the lack of blogging lately. As usual, the whirlwind of summer is in full swing. Family. Student ministry. Worship. Doing life with those who are in the process of becoming shepherds. And learning that I don’t know it all.
OK. That last one is common knowledge.
Last Saturday I was privileged to be a guest on a central Texas radio show here in Austin. We spent most of the time talking about leadership principles and how they apply to student ministry and to parenting. A great discussion that may make for some good blog fodder in the near future. One of the best things was that it was co-hosted by a former student and fabulous young lady named Christina. As she talked about how I was her "Paul" for many years, I quickly realized how much I’ve learned from her as well. It’s a very humbling thing for someone you’ve watched grow to talk about how you’ve shaped their life. Your mind begins to race to the areas you could’ve done better with, modeled more grace or compassion, or demonstrated Christ more. At any rate, we had a ball and it was an honor for me to participate.
Also over the weekend, I was able to pick up a much-needed guitar. Thank you, Jesus. Without going into too much detail, through a long string of events and the grace of God (and some of his people), I got a great deal on a guitar well above what I thought I’d ever have. It is not flippant to say "it belongs to the Lord". Period. I just get to use it for now. If you’re at all familiar with a Taylor 814ce, you know…I could bore you with all the details about the sitka spruce, the indian rosewood, pearl 800 series inalys, and how it sings with clear, full bass tones, yet has crisp, clear highs and….oh….sorry.
Today, I head out to do all the pregame setup for our middle school camp. By the time this posts, our setup team will have spent four hours on the ground, getting ready for the arrival of a herd of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, jacked up on Monsters and expectation! I LOVE middle school camp….
Unfortunately, just about the time they arrive, I’ll have to leave and drive a couple of hours back to Austin for the National Worship Leader Conference. As a first-timer, I’m excited to catch up with some songwriters and thinkers I deeply admire. As of now, I’ve made arrangements to meet with a few of them in an effort to learn and share insights on ministry. These are some of my Yodas.
I’ll be blogging as much as possible during the week to keep you up to date. To get up-to-the-minute details and insights, be sure and add/follow me on Twitter!