Life and Leadership

Thoughts on President Obama's State of the Union Address

2012-01-27T09:24:00.001-07:00

Though I am thoroughly and proudly Canadian, there is a challenging article "The State of the Union and the State of the Pulpit" at the Ordinary Pastor blog.
Read the full text of the January 23, 2012 State of the Union address.

Though I do not consider myself even a novice on American politics, at this point I feel President Barack Obama is a lock to win re-election. Even though I disagree with many of the Democrat perspectives on issues, Obama is doing what he said he would do, and he has the charisma to sell it and the gumption to do it! Meanwhile, the Republicans are trying to decide whether they will select a candidate, Mitt Romney, who is a multi-millionaire and had to be "forced" to make his income public or Newt Gingrich, one who has a 40-year history in the kind of politics Obama keeps pointing out as ineffective for regular Americans (and he's right!). As well, Newt has made a pretty regular habit of mis-speaking in catastrophic, politically incorrect and insensitive ways!

With great privilege, comes great micro-managing.

2012-01-24T13:42:00.001-07:00

As always, a wonderful episode of House, MD titled "Better Half" (season 8, episode 9). The highlight was the great quote early in the show spoken by Dr. House (Hugh Laurie) to Dr. Foreman (Omar Epps): "With great privilege, comes great micro-managing." While it made for a great laugh, it is also an incredibly sad, but perhaps too often true description of some leaders.

I realize I personally am prone to this leadership sin. There are some tasks I don't mind delegating, but key areas I want to have pretty tight control over... and thus I can see myself micro-managing people so that they are annoyed and quickly lose any desire to pour their energy into a project, never mind make it a success. There are times when another person has been delegated the task and it does not go as well as it expected, and I'm the one responsible... further supporting my false thinking that "I need to control every detail." However, when I allow others to accomplish a task in a different way, frequently I find much more buy-in and participation from others than I could have marshalled. I can think of times where I've observed individuals in a position of authority "being attentive to the details" - code words for "micromanaging." In the process, an employee quickly loses enthusiasm, energy, and creativity. Likewise, there are many times an employee has been given a task, a budget and the exhortation "go for it" within these boundaries and it is amazing to see what has been accomplished.

Book Review: Becoming the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved

2012-01-20T16:09:00.002-07:00

Book Review: Becoming the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved (WinePress Publishing, 2011).

I have put off writing this review because it is a difficult review to write (the opposite of a wise leadership principle). It is challenging to write the review because while the book's development is interesting, I never found myself certain which "emphasis" I was supposed to be attending to: the emphasis on how John became the disciple Jesus loved or how "God is writing His story, and you are the main character" (page xi). Clearly, these two emphases were to be woven together to mesh, but as a reader, I did not find them easily connecting together and thus found this constant struggle. Making this review even more challenging is that the author, Michelle Lazurek is a former student from Prairie Bible College who I count as a friend and appreciate. Nonetheless, while Michelle's great heart and passion to serve Christ clearly come through, the book lacks in two significant areas: focus and editing.

Focus. Again, while the emphasis on God is at work writing His story through your life was evident, the parallels to how God worked in John's life were weak and difficult to follow. The three intentions of the book, clearly delineated at the outset (pp. 19-20) are evident, though not consistently developed or accomplished, in my estimation. There are hints of all three at different points, but they are sporadic, and seldom well-connected.

Editing. I was concerned when I learned that Michelle had self-published with WinePress and regretfully, I can see why she chose this option. A good editor would have required a fair bit of work for this to go to press. Along with the focus issue, there are frequent references to "John is rumored to" or "we assume that," that could be stated directly with either an endnote/footnote to support the claim or explain a debated issue of Johannine chronology or theology. While a theological research paper would not be expected when each instance was referred in John's life is referred to, there were too many times the reader felt like s/he was listening in on a sports trade rumor or a juicy piece of gossip being passed around the water cooler (or prayer meeting).

On the positive side, the book does highlight the truth that God is writing His story, and each person can have a significant part to play. As Michelle unpacks the metaphor into three sections "an invitation to the story," "writing your manuscript" and "publishing your manuscript," there are great personal stories as well as thoughtful and meaningful life challenges for any reader.

Finally, this book may connect more with female readers than with the men (of which I am one!).

Les Canadiens n'est pas honorable (The Montreal Canadiens are not honorable)

2012-01-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

Though I have not followed them closely, arguably the greatest franchise in hockey, Les Canadiens de Montreal, are having a horrible season. Yet even worse, the once proud and distinguished franchise has now completed the trifecta of chintzy, petty, dishonorable, bordering on unprofessional off-ice tactics.
First, assistant coach Perry Pearn was relieved of his duties hours before a game. Not on an off day, when there were a couple in between games, but on the day of a game. Then, head coach Jacques Martin was fired just before a game-day skate. Again, not after a game so the team had a couple days to get used to their new coach and adjust to the news. Not in between games. Just before the morning skate on a game-day. Ouch!

Now, they have traded Mike Cammalleri in the middle of a game, pulling him off the ice after the second period to inform him he had been traded to Calgary (who had just started their game two time zones away. Admittedly, Calgary is not totally innocent in this deal either, though generally they have been a pretty classy organization recently. See Proud of the Calgary Flames team and Ken King's Leadership Example). What makes the off-ice details surrounding the Cammalleri trade seem even more petty is the fact it happened 24 hours after the player spouted off about Les Canadiens. GM Pierre Gauther says the deal has been in the works since early December, which may be true but Cammalleri's outburst clearly triggered the deal being done, and completing the deal in the middle of a game just makes it look like "you embarass us, we'll embarass you worse!" Except of course, that it just makes Montreal look more foolish. Cammalleri is laughing all the way to Calgary!

Even if you are having a hockey season from H-E-double hockey sticks, you can still do things in a professional, classy way.

Anna Joy Ibbotson has arrived

2012-01-05T11:26:00.002-07:00

This morning, January 5, 2012 at 7:12 am Anna Joy arrived at the Ibbotson home, weighing 7 lbs 13 oz. She is a birthday gift for Grandma Wendy who turns 65 today!

Anna, the prophetess, recognized the baby Jesus as the Messiah and Savior for all people (Luke 2:38) and we pray that Anna will also realize that Jesus came to be her Savior early in her life and many other people will come to trust in Christ because of her witness. We pray that her life will be full of joy because she follows Jesus, but even moreso that whatever circumstances God allows her to face, she will find the joy of Christ to be her strength.

More pictures available at http://tiffanyibbotsonphotography.blogspot.com/p/babes.html

Book Review: The Resolution for Men

2012-01-02T16:14:00.001-07:00

Apart from Pastor Robert Lewis' Authentic Manhood DVD series & books, I have heard about few resources for men that really present biblical truth in a thorough, comprehensive (not just selected topics) and practical manner. The newly release The Resolution for Men by Stephen & Alex Kendrick (brothers) along with Randy Alcorn, may become the new standard for aligning men with the biblical teaching on the roles and responsibilities of men as husbands, fathers, etc. Apparently the book is also aligned with the movie "Courageous" (Sherwood Pictures Ministry).

Even before the introduction, a page clearly begins stating "Weak men will not be able to handle the contents of this book..." (Admittedly, a bit of reverse psychology because what man is going to say "Oh, I better stop. I probably can't handle this.") As the Kendricks say in the introduction, this book is an unapologetic challenge to men to make the resolution (on page 5) and actively stand for righteousness in all area of life. The remaining chapters then explain each portion of the resolution as it relates to a man's personal relationship with God, with his wife, children, community, work and society.

While not ungracious or tactless, the Kendricks are very direct and give clear Biblical explanation of key principles and concepts, along with appropriate Scriptures. They deal head on with cultural "rules" that are contrary to the biblical teaching (eg. spanking children), yet clearly delineate all aspects of correct Christian application (eg. discipline vs abuse; not spanking when a parent is angry).

I cannot highly recommend this book enough and look forward to seeing men in our community challenged by this teaching.

Book has been provided courtesy of David C Cook and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from B&H Publishing Group".

There are weeks like this in life (& leadership)

2011-12-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

What a week? Last Saturday night, my dear wife Sarah was sitting reading on the couch as I finished watching the Flames defeat the Oilers 3-0. Just as we are ready to head to bed, my wife looks over and says, "I feel a little queasy." Seconds later, she drops the book and rushes to the bathroom and vomits. After cleaning up, we go upstairs and get ready for bed and are just about to settle in when... she vomits again. Fortunately, that was the last time, and despite not having a great night's sleep, the next morning comes around. Sarah realizes she should not serve in the nursery as was scheduled so she calls and swaps with someone else and stays home with Rachel while Caleb and I go to church. A fairly calm rest of the day, though we are disappointed we also had to cancel lunch plans with Sarah's family due to her sickness.

Sunday night, it is the children's turn to "up-chuck." I first hear Rachel cry out just before 3:00 am and bolt out of bed. In the 2-3 seconds between Sarah saying, "don't rush in, she might settle herself" and her next cry, I think but cannot find the words to say, "yes, you are right. I know she might settle herself. And yet I think that was something more than just a cry." The next sound is clearly not a cry but a throw-up noise and then Sarah bolts out of bed to go and help her. We get her, her bed, and dolly re-settled and before we know it, Caleb is awake. I help him settle and then he says "Daddy, my tummy aches." And that's the cue... he vomits too! Clean up the pjs and room, settle our boy back down and then up again ay 6:30 am for another round.

Monday actually goes okay and yet Monday night it is my turn to have poor night's sleep with back pain. I feel like I get no sleep at all and finally take some tylenol... something I probably should have done as I went to bed and felt sore. One of my perpetual problems... I don't take a pain medication until the pain is out of control as I hope its going to get better and I already feel like I take enough pills. Tuesday again goes okay, though Sarah and the children do not go to Mom's Time Out causing Rachel no small amount of frustration as she already missed playing with grandma at church on Sunday, now she doesn't get to spend time with her at MTO.

Tuesday ends with a Board of Elders meeting. Despite being very tired, I am feeling pretty good. Our Elders meeting goes well and we end with a discussion of an interpersonal conflict within the congregation... and it does not finish until after 12:30 am. Though I am home and in bed at 1:15, I'm sure I don't go to sleep until after 2:00 am and its a pretty restless night. By Wednesday, I don't know how I'm going to survive, but I do (by God's grace) and then another bad night with pain... and not taking tylenol quickly enough, and I just survive Thursday morning before taking a "sick day" (1/2) Thursday afternoon. Last night, everyone had a great sleep - myself, Sarah, Caleb and Rachel. It was incredible! I took a tylenol and a gravol before going to bed to help relieve the pain and make sure I slept well.

The purpose of sharing these "such is life" details on my blog is not sympathy (or to bore you with details). I think there's some leadership lessons I need to learn from this situation:
1) Manage trouble spots before they become major issues.
2) Don't put yourself into situations where if one thing happens suddenly, everything else shatters.
3) Life will happen and God will provide enough strength for each day. I confess, I was beginning to wonder about this on Wednesday... how was I going to make it through the rest of the week. The Lord always provides the resources we need to carry out His good will. I need to be sure to thank Him!

"Enough"

2011-12-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Turn back the clock with me seven years ago. Having just completed my doctoral studies, sensing that it was time to make a move career-wise, and yet reasonably satisfied to continue living in my hometown near my loving and supportive family, I frequently listen to the Chris Tomlin song "Enough." Whether at church, on the radio, or on my playlist as I worked on my journal or class preparation, I would stop and try to sing along, only to realize that I couldn't genuinely repeat the words. I believed them to be true and desparately wanted to claim that truth personally, but often I felt as if I was trying to convince myself of the truth of the lyrics, not proclaim them. Over a period of months, I believe God worked to bring me to a point where I believe I could sing the words truthfully, before the circumstances of life changed to a point where I could see His provision so amazingly beyond my wildest dreams and expectations.

Now, back to December 2011. As the worship team at the Prairie Tabernacle congregation led this song on Sunday morning, I needed to stop singing and ask the Lord, do I really mean the words coming out of my mouth? What does that truth claim mean for me today with a wife, two children and another one due in January, a home, two part-time jobs, and a general sense of physical (and mental) fatigue in my body?

I have not yet come to an "answer," yet I will sing the words, affirming the truth the song conveys about God, His character, and His provision.

Where has Critical Appreciation Gone?

2011-11-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

The critical review essays were due yesterday in the Written Composition (HF 110) class I am teaching this semester as a sessional instructor at PBI. Consequently, I found this article interesting!

Gratitude for those who have helped me in leadership

2011-11-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

John Maxwell's latest Leadership Wired newsletter includes an essay titled "Leadership in Dependence: An Attitude Inspiring Gratitude" and focuses on the need for leaders to realize that they have come to their place/position of influence because of many people who have helped them along the way.
I want to express my appreciation to the following people for the role they have played in my life and contributing to any success God has blessed me with in leadership.

My parents, John & Wendy Ibbotson - ways too numerous. Bottom line: I had every opportunity for success because of a safe, secure, nurturing home I was raised in.
Mr. Fred Stidham - the grade 6 teacher who one day in a passing comment said, "Steve, you could become a teacher someday."
Dr Charlotte Kinving-Bates - for believing that I could develop into a leader from the time I graduated from high school and provided opportunities for me to lead in various ways. In one of her leadership development classes in 1996, I began an annual personal development plan that I have used, reviewed, and updated every year.
The people of the Prairie Tabernacle Congregation - a group of people, many in their senior years, who have served around the world in various capacities, gave a young, single, 25 year old the chance to serve as an elder among them. I have been privileged to serve as an elder for 12 of the last 14 years, including some years as chair.
Gonzaga University - a school that sought to open the doors to students from various aspects of life to study in the Doctor of Philosphy in Educational Leadership program... and that new what an MDiv was because they trained Jesuit priests!
Paul Nigh, Jason Ewert & principal Randy Wood at Prairie Christian Academy - you have helped me use my administrative gifts and demonstrated "get it done" leadership that makes things happen in two contexts (public school/academia and Christian non-profit organization) that can be frustratingly restrictive.
Many individuals in formal leadership positions locally and globally who I've watched and tried to learn from.

Of course, thanks to the Lord for providing me with so many people and opportunities to lead God's people by serving God's people.

Review: Why Men Hate Going to Church (Revised) by David Murrow

2011-11-11T14:03:00.001-07:00

I remember hearing about this book when it was first published in 1995 (2005). There were some proponents who felt this book was long overdue. Others felt the book was simply a pathetic attempt to excuse male apathy in church. So, when the opportunity was given to review an updated version, I jumped in eager to read the arguments and examine their validity.

It is only fair to concede that this reader fits the small percentage of men who the church "connects" with - the verbal (able to teach/preach), studious (I read the book, right!), and sensitive (okay, many people would not describe me this way, but as it relates to the concepts in this book). Though I enjoy sports, due to physical limitations I cannot play, and thus resonate with the language Murrow suggests the church largely ignores that is men's preferred context/language. I can understand why male critics of this book would not agree with Murrow, because if you are a male church "star" (pastor/elder) and you agree with the thesis of the book, you are essentially admitting that you are a "feminine man."

The thesis of the book is that the main reason men hate church is because most aspects of congregational life are oriented towards predominantly female traits and styles. Part 1 seek to answer the question, "Where are the men?" and though not rich in statistics, the fact of the argument is really not up for debate.

Murrow actually begin arguing in chapter 5 (two chapters before part 2 of the book seemingly begins) that church culture and male culture are in constant structural (sytems) and functional (how things actually work out) conflict. From a one-sided view of Jesus (chapter 6) to the lovey-dovey worship songs (chapter 9) and many other symptoms, Murrow thoroughly points out how churches of the 20th century sent multiple messages to men that "church" is not the place you want to be talking about over the water-cooler on Monday morning. This part of the book is repetitive in some places, yet at the same time, it provides such ample evidence of how male culture is so diametrically opposed to most church language and activities, that one really can only cringe in embarassment.

Fortunately, part 3 offers some ten practical chapters "Calling the Church back to Men." By the end of the book, this reader found himself both convinced of the need for change to our church language and structures so that they are more "manly" as well as armed with some initial ideas for making these things happen.

This book was provided for free for review by Thomas Nelson publishers as part of the BookSneeze program.

What I learned about Leadership from a Root Canal by Michael Hyatt

2011-11-03T09:51:00.002-06:00

Check this article out!

Thankful for "nothing"

2011-10-27T16:34:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I had my annual cardiologist appointment at the Peter Lougheed Hospital in Calgary. After a six-minute walk test as part of tracking a medication's effectiveness, an echocardiogram (ECG), and an electrocardiogram (EEG), I visited with my cardiologist, his assistant, and a new doctor working with him. As they asked the standard questions (eg. swelling, chest pain, dizziness, etc.) and if there was anything new in the last year, I gave "no" answers. It was all very boring. Why I haven't even had a nosebleed in the past year! As the doctor summarized the appointment, "well, we're glad you came in so that we could find out that you and Sarah are expecting child #3 in January. Be sure to send us some pictures when baby arrives."

I realize I don't stop often enough to thank the Lord for this complete lack of news. When "nothing" is happening (medically) and life is going by in an orderly fashion, I need to make sure I stop and praise Him for His gracious hand upon my life in so many ways. His amazing kindness extended to me, not only far beyond what I deserve, but far beyond what medically seems comprehensible. So, thanks for nothing, Lord!

Stuck (DVD Series) Review

2011-10-24T09:17:00.000-06:00

The "Stuck" series of DVDs is designed for a women's ministry group or Bible study. As I man, I am clearly not involved in such groups, and thus I passed this series on to the co-ordinator of women's ministries in the Prairie Tabernacle Congregation (my home church) and she in turn shared it with her leaders. So far I have heard that "the premise I got was positive and there seemed to be good biblical content." Sorry I don't have more to share at this time.

Samplers of the Book and DVD have been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. DVD-Based Study available October 2011 at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

Review: Close Enough to Hear God Breathe by Greg Paul

2011-10-24T09:09:00.000-06:00

I knew this was going to be a challenging book when I was crying as I read the prologue the day before Thanksgiving. Greg Paul's writing is itself an artistic masterpiece and his ability to draw the reader into the description is amazing. (Admittedly, the fact his daughter's name, Rachel, is also my daughter's name, helped draw this reader in. Later, in chapter 1 I discovered he also has a son named Caleb.) The author masterfully weaves personal stories illustrating the idea being presented in each chapter.

After an introductory section ("The Heart of the Matter"), Paul goes through the four acts of the Great Story – Creation, the Fall, Redemption, and Consummation – offering words God is trying to communicate to individuals in each part of the Story. Without being presumptuous, Paul compellingly shares the stories in a way that is full of theology and thoroughly consistent with evangelical doctrine. Each chapter begins with a Scripture passage, addressed to “my child,” “my beloved,” and ” my pleasure,” in each section (hence 15 chapters plus prologue and epilogue). Likewise, each chapter concludes with a suggested phrase that God whispers to individuals.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough, whether to a young person looking to understand their place in the Great Story and how to hear God better, or to a long-time Christian looking for a fresh and moving challenge to the way they’ve always thought about the Gospel message. Without diminishing His sovereignty and awesomeness, the book presents an intimately personal God in a way unlike any other book.

Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson.

Missions Matters - PCA's Journey of missions team development

2011-10-23T20:37:00.000-06:00

I was privileged to share the story of PCA's journey of developing a missions team at this past week's ACSI (Association of Christian School's International) Alberta Teacher's Conference held at Bearspaw Christian Academy in Calgary. Here is the pdf of my powerpoint presentation. If you would like more info, please contact the address given at the end of the pdf.

Thanksgiving Reflections

2011-10-07T11:34:00.000-06:00

Yes, its that time of year here in Canada where we celebrate Thanksgiving - about seven weeks ahead of our friends in the USA! In keeping with the line from Matt & Beth Redman's song, "Every blessing You pour out, I'll turn back to praise...", thank God with me for: *salvation through Jesus Christ, so rich and free,
*a noble wife as described in Proverbs 31. Sarah is amazing as a woman, a wife, mother, daugher (& in-law), sister, friend, etc.
*two amazing children. Caleb & Rachel, who I love and learn so much from me each day!
*baby #3 on the way in January,
*wonderful & far too kind extended family (parents, siblings & in-laws, grandpa Carter & Nana),
*a great group of people to work with at Prairie Christian Academy (PCA),
*the opportunity to impact boys & girls through my work at PCA,
*the opportunity to teach again in a college setting at PBI,
*His incredible provision for our house,
*friends in the Three Hills community,
...and the list could go on and on and on.

Yesterday as I was driving to work in my wheelchair - yes, a local man who knew I wasn't using it anymore thought he'd take it off my hands and use it for a go-cart but once he started looking at it realized it was "easy to fix" and did so - I just started to cry thinking again of how amazingly gracious and generous the Lord has been to me. His provision and care for me are beyond comprehension and words so I'll simply say "Thank You" (realizing it never can be enough).

Swerve Calgary article about PBI

2011-09-23T09:47:00.001-06:00

While I would not agree with all the perspectives and conclusions offered in this article by Jeremy Klaszus and his sources, it is a well-written article. A good writer/reporter gets perspective from all angles and Jeremy does this well!

Family Pics

2011-09-16T15:24:00.000-06:00

I have not posted pics of our family in a looooong time and so thought I'd better post a few more for aunts, uncles or family friends who do not live nearby!

Four Generations of females (taken February 20, 2011)

Our Cool Kids

Family picture (July 26, 2011)

Speaking Topics

2011-09-02T14:14:00.018-06:00

Having been involved in education for 15 years as a teacher and administrator, Dr Steve Ibbotson desires to serve churches, schools and other Christian ministries. If you are looking for a speaker and think I may be able to serve your group, please contact me. I am willing to do individual presentations or a series of "messages."

As well as preaching in local churches, I have presented to groups on the following topics:

Leadership - Communicate like a Leader, Building Teams that Work
Cross-cultural work - Missions Matter: How to build successful short-term missions teams in your school?, What does it mean to be a missions leader in the 21st century?
Growing up with a physical disability - Parenting a Disabled Child

To hear a recent sermon, click here.

Why McDonald's Wins in any Economy - Fortune magazine Sept 5, 2011

2011-08-29T10:01:00.000-06:00

A great article on my personal favorite restaurant - McDonalds!
Thanks to challies.com for the link!

Ten Myths about Calvinism by Ken Stewart

2011-08-12T11:17:00.001-06:00

Though I have not read this book, very positive reviews come from individuals across the theological spectrum. I am very happy to see the success of the book because I had the pleasure and privilege of serving at Prairie Bible Institute for a number of years with the book's author, Dr. Ken Stewart.

Roger E. Olson review at Christianity Today.
Scot McKnight of North Park University (Chicago) investigates various chapters.
Passion for Preaching review
Podcast with Tim Challies
The official info from InterVarsity Press

Do Leaders Need Competition?

2011-08-11T10:08:00.002-06:00

by Steve Ibbotson

Just listening to the FAN 960 as I'm sitting here in the office and as part of their golf report, they were considering how Phil Mickelson has not become the world's #1 golfer since the Tiger Woods debacle. Everyone thought he was poised to be move right into top spot if/when Tiger faded, yet the lefty has not been the power everyone expected. Perhaps Mickelson needed Tiger in order to play his best?

I have wondered the same thing about WestJet (Canadian equivalent of SouthWest Airlines). Air Canada has been a perpetual disaster in most ways - customer service, repeated financial help from the government, etc. Yet I believe if they ever did cease operations - as most companies with their track record, financial issues, outrageous contractual obligations, etc would - WestJet might not be far behind. I believe WestJet lives and in fact, succeeds, largely because they have a competitor, Air Canada.

A number of years ago, there was a serious builder in our town who started a construction boom. Soon there was a good competitor, a business that went from a one-man painting company to becoming another serious home builder, restaurant/hotel builder, etc. Now, one of these builders has disappeared from the scene and while builder #2 still is building homes in Three Hills, a number of small local contractors seem to be just as prevalent as seven years ago when there was the two-man building war... in small town TH of all places!

Oh yes, and I'll say it before someone else does: Three Hills and area have eight strongly evangelical local churches in a town of 4000. Really?

So I'm asking the question: Do Leaders Need Competition?
(I'll offer an answer in a future blogpost)

Beer, Bohemianism & True Christian Liberty

2011-08-10T10:02:00.000-06:00

An excellent article by John MacArthur! Thanks to Tim Challies for the link!

Book Review: On Being a Leader for God by Warren Wiersbe

2011-08-04T10:35:00.000-06:00

In the preface, pastor and Bible teacher Warren W. Wiersbe articulates the purpose of this book is to be "a practical 'theology of leadership' based on the principles and illustrated taught in the Bible. As one would expect from a Bible teacher with significant life experience in various contexts, Wiersbe accomplishes this goal well. He admits there won't be ground-breaking new ideas or leadership concepts and there are not. Yet the book is an easy read, well-written, and illustrates the biblical principles of leadership with engaging stories.

The chapters are short (4-7 pages), making the book easy to read, though the lack of chapter headings or titles seems awkward (and of course this means there is no "table of contents" to guide you through). An outline never became clear as one read, though the book didn't seem scattered either and chapters generally flow in a logical sequence, though again some formal titles would be beneficial.

Though it is not particularly academic, I would recommend this book for an introductory college (or high school) course on leadership as it coverse Biblical principles well and interacts with some general leadership concepts thoughtfully.

Psalm 16 & Heritage Day Weekend

2011-07-29T13:56:00.001-06:00

It is a Friday afternoon and in most of Canada, today begins a long weekend! In Alberta, the holiday is called Heritage Day. In my reading the other day, I was reflecting on Psalm 16 and it seems to be a good fit for a blog entry as the Heritage Day weekend commences. So here are some of my reflections:

Psalm 16:5-6
Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.

Next Friday, we take possession of our new home here in Three Hills. Sarah has been packing diligently for the past two weeks and I have done a couple things this week. It will be busy next weekend, but we are soooo blessed to be able to purchase this home. However, as blessed as we are with this home, the past few weeks have been even more amazing as we have seen God answer prayer in related matters:
a) the mobile home we currently live in was rented within hours of us putting out word it would be available;
b) Sarah enjoys having homestay students and so we applied and have already been accepted. One young lady has already been "assigned" to our home and we are open to another. Yes, this provides a bit of supplementary income without being an income (covers R&B), but more importantly, it means our home (space) can be a blessing to others.
c) My current employment position is being cut from full-time to half-time and yet no other "income options" were opening... until this week when a chance to teach a couple courses for PBI/PCAAT in the fall semester were available. Even more amazing... except to God who is in control of it all... both classes fit the schedule and do not conflict with the key components of my role, even being half-time.

However, this is simply a small part of the truth of Psalm 16 in my life. I could talk for hours/pages about how this Psalm plays out in my life... from the amazing wife God has blessed me with in Sarah, to our amazing two children, Caleb and Rachel, to the incredible extended family we have on both sides, to various friends near and far, the opportunities to impact lives here in Three Hills and around the world, I could go on and on. Indeed, "apart from you (Lord), I have no good thing."

So as this Heritage Day weekend begins, I trust reading this blog entry will encourage your heart that God IS watching out for you and will guard/protect/watch over you... especially when the future seems uncertain. To Him be honour and glory!

Two Book Reviews (long overdue)

2011-07-25T10:41:00.001-06:00

A couple books provided by Graf-Martin for which the blog reviews below are long overdue.
The Gospel Commission by Michael Horton (Baker, 2011)

I believe this will be an excellent book… however I have only gotten through the first 50 pages because it is densely packed and you do not want to skip over the depth contained therein. Horton chooses his words carefully and they cause one (at least this reader) to read slowly… not great if you are supposed to write a blog review within 30 days of a 300+ page hardcover book. It is not that the reading is difficult, it is simply full of good theological argument/discussion and one should not read over it hastily.

One example: "We often speak of 'making Jesus our personal Lord and Savior," but this obscures two important points. First, we do not make Jesus anything, especially Lord and Savior. It is because he already is Lord and Savior that we are freed from death and hell. All authority belongs to him already." (second point follows in the next paragraph). If I really grasp this concept, it will (and has) changed the way I pray for my children. Yes, I have prayed they will "accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour" but actually I should pray that they "will recognize Jesus as the Lord and Savior of all people, and of them individually."
My regrets this review is so short, yet I believe its strengths and weakness are accurately depicted.

Small Groups with Purpose by Steve Gladen (Baker, 2011)

My wife and I lead and host a small group in our home and I have done so for many years as single man with a variety of groups (ie. college students, congregation members). I’m also looking at the possibility of serving as a small groups coach in the near future and so this book seemed to be a good choice for a blog review. Written by Saddleback’s Pastor of Small Group Community, Steve Gladen very clearly says at the beginning that the advice in this book is for you to go out and in most ways replicate because it is based on biblical principles. Personally, I liked that because I have encountered many books where an author says, “don’t try to do this strategy in your church but here’s how it works and why it works well.” If it works so well, why wouldn’t I use the strategy?

Gladen does a good job of giving a variety of options in each chapter so that the book is not an overly prescriptive manual, but a small group’s guidebook based on biblical principles with a selection of ways that might look in different settings. Easy-to-read and highly practical, each chapter also includes “study questions” at the end for discussion or planning.

I would highly recommend this book to small group coaches as well as leaders.

Letter to a teenager from John Piper

2011-07-18T09:29:00.001-06:00

Just back in the office after a week of holiday camping with the family at Old McDonald Resort (just outside Erskine, AB). Came across this nice piece by pastor John Piper through Tim Challies blog.

Also, a good article on Perry Noble's blog, Control is the Greatest Illusion in the Universe.

Interesting Articles on this blog's topic

2011-07-08T16:32:00.003-06:00

Three interesting articles that fit the topic of this blog quite well.

Survivor: Leadership edition by Roger Parrott
CJ Mahaney's Leave of Absence by CJ Mahaney
Ten Questions Leaders should be asking by Perry Noble

Are they enjoying themselves?

2011-07-04T15:36:00.002-06:00

As my wife and I have been watching the news the past three nights and seeing the reports on Prince William and Kate's travel around Canada, she has commented a few times, "I hope they are enjoying themselves?" Whether it was the day 1 update on how each of the three outfits worn by Kate were made by Canadian designers or yesterday's updates on how they made out pretty well public relations wise in Quebec, despite the protests, I'm glad my wife has a thoughtfulness and compassion that many, including myself, probably don't really have for this royal couple.

I'm of the perspective that Kate knew what she was marrying into - or at least as much as anyone can know until you really live it - and so "c'est la vie," this is the life you chose. Kate knew she was going to always been in the spotlight the minute she started dating Prince William. In a sense, she had to weigh the "can I live in the constant spotlight?" question against the "do I want to be Prince William's wife?" (or do I love Will that much?) Admittedly, there are a multiple of lifelong benefits for such perpetual privacy invasions - global travel, gifts galore, lavish banquets with the political elite (and eventually other "stars), constant 5-star hotels and vacations, etc.

However, you might suspect that one Diana Spencer wondered these very same thoughts 25+ years ago and felt she could handle these pressures too! And you can bet her eldest son has these questions weighing in his young mind as he tries to live up to the expectations of being the prince while also being a newly married man, trying to understand what it means to care for his wife. That's some load to carry for a leader!

Book Review - The Irresistable Church by Wayne Cordeiro

2011-06-27T13:33:00.003-06:00

As an elder in our congregation, the chance to review a book titled The Irresistable Church: 12 Traits of a Church Heaven Applauds really was an obvious "yes." And after reading the book, I'm ready to make sure our whole elders board reads this excellent book by pastor Wayne Cordeiro.

Three key points are made in the introductory chapter that hinted this was going to be an incredibly valuable book. First, "irresistable" was defined, not by numbers or programs or other external signs of success but by the "feel" of the church. I prefer a numerical/programmatic approach and yet know that this definition of a "successful" church are not what really matters. Secondly, in setting forth this description, pastor Cordeiro clearly says that this is not only a church that will be recognized as "irresistable" by earthly standards, but in fact by heavenly standards because it follows God's design for the Church and is based on biblical ideals. Finally, this book said it did/would provide principles to follow for any church, regardless of size, location, denomination, leadership style/polity, etc. The book did not need to say "modify these for your congregation" - something that many "church advice" books say - because they are biblical values and thus timeless and abiding.

The 12 traits that Cordeiro identifies (you'll have to read the book to get them) are indeed biblical and the way he identifies, describes, and illustrates each characteristic is both clear and challenging. Without being simplistic, the book is easy-to-read (nice size chapters) and well-written in an engaging style. Interestingly enough, the tone of the book does not convey a pride or arrogance about "how we do church" either.

The only possible drawback I can see in this book is that it does not contain a plethora of Scripture references in the actual text of the book. While I am convinced that its teaching is thoroughly biblical and reflects the "traits of a church that heaven applauds" you will not find a pile of Scripture references littering the pages. Again, I personally quite appreciate this, though for some, these references may be helpful for cross-referencing and studying each trait specifically. There is a useful study guide at the end of the book that includes a number of key Scripture references for each chapter.

I highly recommend this book and believe it could be a landscape-changer if the church in North America actually began again to live out these principles.

This book, published by BethanyHouse publishers, was provided free for review by Graf-Martin Canada.

A lot can change in five years...

2011-06-21T15:57:00.002-06:00

Five years ago today (June 21, 2006), Sarah and I started dating. There's lots of great stories behind and around the events of that day - and I'll be very glad to tell anyone about them who hasn't heard the stories! Today, all I want to say is that WOW! A lot change in five years... On June 21, 2006, I was a 34-year old single guy who had just graduated with his PhD and was teaching at a college. Five years later, I am blessed to be a very happily married man with two dear and amazing children, and I work as a Christian Education Co-ordinator for a K-12 school. Ephesians 3:20-21 says, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." (NIV) The Lord has certainly blessed me with way more than I could ever ask or imagine five years ago when I took a risk... and found God had already gone before me!

Every young hockey player's dream?

2011-06-16T11:39:00.007-06:00

What is every young hockey player's dream? To play in the NHL? To be drafted first overall in their draft year? To win the scoring title or league MVP? No, it is to hoist the Stanley Cup.

Last year at this time, there was some debate about who would be the first overall selection in the NHL entry draft. Tyler Seguin or Taylor Hall? The winner was Taylor Hall who was selected by the Edmonton Oilers first overall and had a very solid rookie season before any injury ended his campaign prematurely. He will not win the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, yet his season was very good. Most believe the Calder trophy will go to either Logan Couture of the San Jose Sharks or Jeff Skinner of the Carolina Hurricanes.

One could argue, however, that Tyler Seguin was the real winner of last year's NHL entry draft. Last night, he and his Boston Bruin teammates claimed the ultimate hockey prize, the Stanley Cup. Seguin had a decent rookie year, scoring 11 goals and 11 assists, playing in 74 regular season games. He was a healthy scratch for the first two rounds of the playoffs, yet was inserted into the lineup in round 3 against the Tampa Bay Lightning due to an injury. He was a sparkplug for the team, notching 3 goals and 3 assists in the first two games of the conference championship against the Lightning and thus he played the next 12 games of the playoffs. He played no less than six and no more than 12 minutes in each game of the Stanley Cup Finals against Vancouver, and yet last night, he was living every young hockey player's dream: hoisting the Stanley Cup!

So who do you say "won"? Taylor or Tyler

Trip to Kandahar

2011-06-02T14:51:00.005-06:00

A simply incredible article by TSN's Gord Miller about his trip to Kandahar with Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, Jarome Iginla and others! Another reason to be proud to be Canadian!

Making Progress on the Annual Goals

2011-05-31T08:51:00.002-06:00

A new article on Michael Hyatt's "Intentional Leadership" blog titled 5 Reasons You Should Commit Your Goals in Writing reminded me to check in on my annual goals and see how I'm doing in accomplishing the goals I believed God had me set forth for this year.

In the vocational area, one goal was to update this blog with a leadership article each month. I don't know if I've done that every month, but at least I'm doing it now... for June! A second goal in this area to make a presentation at a conference and my proposal for a workshop at the upcoming ACSI Teacher's Conference in Alberta was recently accepted so that will take place in October. Although it was listed in the area I call "Global Mission of the Church," my next goal, relating to my position as Christian Education Co-ordinator at Prairie Christian Academy, was to participate with the Junior High missions trip to Blue Bronna Wilderness Camp which happened a couple weekends ago.

My spiritual growth and interpersonal relationshup goals are on track and in the stewardship area, the Lord has recently graced us with the privilege of purchasing a home (a goal that we've been saving towards and praying about for about a year).

So I would agree that it is important to write down your goals and it is vital to track their progress to thank the Lord for His gracious blessings! (and sometimes to give yourself a kick-in-the-butt to attend to other matters)

Book Review: Pujols - More than a Game

2011-05-24T09:09:00.004-06:00

Having checked in on Tim Ellsworth's blog semi-regularly over the past year and with spring arriving, I felt a biography on a baseball player would be a good change of pace to my usual academic and church leadership book reviews. Though I had given up hope the book would arrive, it did eventually come. Unfortunately, I cannot say it was worth the wait.

By all accounts, Albert Pujols is not only an exceptional baseball player, he is a God-honouring man, father, baseball player, and philanthropist. His faith in Christ and clarity about his Christianity - in an age where everyone "thanks God" for their success - is refreshing. Likewise, there are many aspects of his life story/journey which are inspiring, encouraging, and laudable. Where skepticism (legitimately) abounds about any high-profile person and their faith and others-focused lifestyle, Pujols is above reproach and exemplary.

Pujols - More than a Game, gets the above message across very clearly and thus is commendable. However, as a biography, this reader found it lacking in story-telling, personal anecdotes, and general flow. Frankly, each chapter seemed like a "summary article" of the previous season, baseball achievements as well as charitable activities. Yet it didn't really flow and tell a story or give Pujols (or anyone else's) "stories." There were enough quotes intermingled that it seemed like the authors had access to various people who may have been able to fill in the story, yet it was absent. The final chapter was perhaps the best expression of this flaw as it reviewed the 2010 season and then in the final page (literally) indicated that we'll see what 2011 holds and after that Pujols is a free agent so many things could happen. No epilogue. No summary about a relationship with St Louis Cardinals fans and what this could mean come free agency. It just ended.

Furthermore, the authors seemed to go awkwardly out of their way to intermittently "proselytize," making sure that a reader knew specifically the "salvation message" of Pujols' Christian faith and "preaching" at the reader in a clarifying, almost patronizing way.

Overall a disappointing biography of a truly amazing baseball player and a fine Christian role model.

This book was provided free for review by ThomasNelson Publishers through the "BookSneeze" review program.

A store worth mentioning

2011-05-11T11:08:00.002-06:00

I don't know if you have ever had one of those shopping experiences where you just wanted to find the store manager or company owner and hug them, but Sarah and I had such an experience last week and so I sent an email to the Customer Service department today. I encourage you to visit a Please Mum store (or online)!

Dear Please Mum office,

My wife and I were walking through CrossIron Mills mall (Balzac, AB) and stopped by the Please Mum store. My wife remembered a young baby had recently been born in our church and wanted to find an outfit for a baby shower. She found a very cute outfit that was a bit more than we wanted to spend, yet we knew people had been generous with us when our little one(s) were born, so we figured we'd just bite the bullet. As the sales lady was preparing to ring the bill through she drew our attention to a special Mother's Day promotion: get 50% of your bill if you are a mom (or grandmother) with a picture of your children. We knew we did not have any "paper" pictures on hand and yet I suddenly remembered to check my cell phone to see if I had not-deleted some recent pictures of our kids. Thankfully, there were a couple and as we showed them to the sales lady, she kindly commented and rang through the discount. A most pleasurable experience and we were tempted to shop some more to take advantage of this special sale, but decided not to.

More than a pleasurable surprise and nice shopping experience, I want to commend Please Mum for two things. First, the promotion itself is so good and kind in the values it promotes and affirms - that being a mom is a worthwhile calling/vocation and should be honoured and celebrated. In our world today, anything a company can do to encourage this is appreciated. Secondly, the sales lady was so kind and gracious - to mention the sale in the first place, to not have any kind of "prove that's your kid" (not someone else's kid in the picture) attitude. We were taken as being truthful and the sales lady was kind in her comments and accepting of our cell phone pictures as really our children.

I fear that your customer service department likely hears only the complaints of customers. The service we received and the values conveyed by the promotion were so excellent, I wanted to take a moment and email you our appreciation. Your store may have slightly higher prices than other stores, and yet with this kind of customer service and these kind of values, we will be glad to continue giving our business to Please Mum.

With sincere appreciation,
Steven & Sarah Ibbotson

Book Review: Max on Life

2011-04-25T14:34:00.006-06:00

Another chance to get a Max Lucado book for free... I signed up! Again, I am not disappointed, though I did not find this book as super as Outlive Your Life by Lucado.

Max on Life purposes to answer the variety of life questions that have come to the author by virtue of his position and prominence as a writer and pastor. Of course, this opens the door for the first obvious criticism: Lucado has just cut and spliced sections from his plethora of books and inserted the answer. There are certainly places where this does seem to have happened, and the answer given does not seem to really closely relate to the question as much as be a generic answer to this general area of questions (eg. suffering).

The second obvious criticism relates to thoroughness or depth. Because he has attempted to answer each question in less than two printed pages (most are one printed page at most), the answers at times seem too simplistic or "surface" rather than providing indepth spiritual principles/foundations for the deep questions of life.

Having identified two easy criticisms, and recognizing that there are questions asked where these two criticisms are legitimate, overall, Max on Life is a theologically solid book that comes across reasonably sensitive and practical. There are places where Lucado could have provided a bit more theological depth and general biblical principles. However, his advice in each answer is direct, pastoral, and fully biblical.

Overall there is no hesitation in recommending this book.

This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson Publishers and Graf-Martin.

Canadian Publishing Contest

2011-04-07T13:44:00.000-06:00

Leadership in a facebook, youtube, txt world

2011-03-25T15:21:00.005-06:00

Our Friday afternoon Bible class had a few people absent and so the few students that were present shared some of their favorite youtube videos. After doing so and chatting about the different videos - mainly the students informing me how they found them and why they find them interesting, we had some discussion of how the world they live in (and don't know otherwise) of facebook, youtube and texting will impact their worldview. If someone doesn't answer a txt message or respond to a facebook post within two days, you wonder if they died... or at least if their phone and computer have crashed. Then how does this relate to the concept in the Bible of "wait on the Lord." Baby Boomers and even moreso Generation X were accused of being a "microwave generation" who expected everything instantaneously, yet how will the post-millenials view God, time, concepts like patience, waiting on God?

A few weeks ago, I blogged about Leadership and Momentum. Likewise, what will leadership look like in a facebook, youtube and txt saturated world? Will concepts like "sober second thought" or "due diligence" or "processing time" in regards to a decision become obsolete? Will the expected urgency of a response result in organizations responded well to inquiries or will it result in companies replying one way and then 48 hours later changing their decision (and then potentially 48 hours later responding yet another way)?

I welcome your perspective.

There's a new #2

2011-03-22T16:01:00.006-06:00

Yes, there is a new #2 personal favourite event in the RDAC as a result of this past weekend. The PCA Sabres girls basketball team won the 2A Provincial title on home court Saturday night by defeating the top-ranked and 3-time defending champion Immanual Christian Eagles 78-70. It was a great game to be at the scoretable and running the clock for and the RDAC was packed and loud and noisy - and so it should be. It was the kind of evening the person the building is named after (Rick Down) would have just loved! And he would have been one of the loudest cheering!

Of course, if this is "the new #2" you probably want to know what my previous favorite events, now #3 and #4 at the RDAC were (if you don't you can stop reading now!).

Event #3 was the 1999 2A High School Boys Zone Final between the PHS (now PCA) Sabres and Siksika First Nation. The Sabres guys were the favorite to go to provincials and win it all - which they did. No one had heard anything really about the Siksika First Nation guys team until the zone tournament and didn't who or what to expect. It was a crazy game, played on half-court in the RDAC and early on the Sabres star guard, Ryan Reed, got pushed towards the scoretable and pretty much landed on my lap (I did not recall this part of the event until my in-laws brought it up this weekend as we were reminiscing). Siksika guard Troy Wolf Leg matched Reed shot for shot and their other players found ways to match the other Sabres score for score. The Sabres won 108-100 in regulation time. No, that is not a typo - 208 points in a 40 minute high school basketball game. The teams went back and forth and it was intense the whole way. Between the many Sabres fans and the boisterous crew from Siksika with their traditional drums, it was loud! I believe that was the most challenge the Sabres got on their way to the provincial title.

Event #4 was the first playoff game between the PBC Pilots and the Grant MacEwan College Griffins. Grant Mac was ranked first in the north and the Pilots had claimed fourth in the south by virtue of beating out Medicine Hat College and Briercrest College. It was the one and only time a Pilots team made the playoffs in ACAC and it was a foregone conclusion that the best-of-3 series would be a two game slaughter, and thus the first game was in Three Hills on a Thursday night before they headed back to Edmonton for game #2 on Friday night (and game # 3 if necessary, ha! ha!).

Well, the Lady Pilots forgot to read the memo... and they came out and shot the lights out. I think Deb Krause (now Adams) hit five three's in the first half alone and another two in the second half. When they weren't raining down 3's, Mary Fehr (now Amendt) was cutting in from the point guard position and dishing it off to any of her teammates for an easy two. The possibility of a great upset got greater and greater as the Pilots hung on and only fizzled in the closing moments as Grant MacEwan won 64-61. (They beat the Pilots by 50 points the next night to win the series).

By the way, if you want to know my favorite event at the RDAC (#1)... just leave a comment and ask!

Blessings surrounding 2A Girls Provincials at PCA

2011-03-17T14:53:00.003-06:00

Its only day 1 of the ASAA 2A Girls Provincial basketball championships being hosted here in Three Hills by Prairie Christian Academy. Already, I have reflected on a handful of blessings and the weekend has barely started...

1) This morning after the opening ceremonies, I had a visit with Sean Stetson, a former student at Prairie Bible College who now works with NBC Camps in Spokane, Washington. He played Pilots basketball for four years and was a great kid coming out of high school and continues to be a great and God-honouring young man. I found out he is speaking tonight at the boys 2A provincial basketball championships banquet as he is an alumnus of Didsbury High School, the host for guys tournament. That's pretty cool... and I hope our Sabres guys listen to him well!

He also is married and he and his wife also have a 3 year old and a 1 year old (two boys)... like Sarah and I (though we have a boy & girl).

2) I've been wondering if this weekend will make in any way break into my top three RDAC moments... and I doubt it... though it could make a good #4 towards a top 5 list! Does anyone want to guess my top 3 RDAC moments so far...

I'll post them up tomorrow or Saturday! Those moments and the people involved represent more of the blessings God has showered on me. (And I'm much more thankful for them than I was for the fresh snow showers this morning!)

GO SABRES GO!

The Good Book Blog

2011-03-01T13:37:00.001-07:00

I don't know how good this blog will be but it has the potential to be very good!

February Leadership Reflections

2011-02-22T16:20:00.002-07:00

One of the leadership lessons that is predominant in the first two months of 2011 is the power of momentum or to put it another way, "Success begets success." In world events, the waves of political upheavel started in Tanzania, them moved to Egypt, are currently roaring through Libya and apparently Yemen and Morocco are beginning to see a change in the tides also. In a facebook and twitter and text-message world, momentum is almost impossible to stop once it starts moving, even if it is "technically" blocked.

Momentum has always been a force that leaders need to acknowledge and deal with, whether building on positive momentum or diffusing (or otherwise minimizing) negative momentum. The difference in 2011 is that what may have taken months or even years to develop and move in the political realm in one nation, now can shift dramatically in days, and can then carry over geographic boundaries - as if the lines are simply pencil markings on a map - almost overnight.

This is also evident in the hockey arena. Just after Christmas, the Calgary Flames were waiting for a "bomb to drop" as significant changes were desperately needed as the team continued to muddle along in mediocrity. When GM Darryl Sutter was asked to step down, this was thought to be the first of many steps to the "urgently needed" rebuild. Seven weeks later the Flames are not only in the playoff race, but as of today would be in the top eight in the Western Conference. The alleged "fire sale" that the Flames would be having at the trade deadline is now unthinkable, as all agree you cannot break up the chemistry the team has right now. Seven weeks ago, they were too old, too slow, with almost no salary cap room and even fewer draft choices or prospects to look forward to watching. Again, the direction the team has been moving on the ice (and thus in the standings) has changed the whole tone of the conversation about the character and needs of the organization.

The same has happened in New Jersey as coach John MacLean was let go and former coach, Jacques Lemaire has stepped in. Like the Flames, a team that was competing for a lottery pick in the NHL entry draft is now on the verge of the playoff bubble. Goaltender Martin Brodeur, who the Devils had perhaps played too much and thereby left no room for another goaltender to prepare to fill his shoes, now is the "clutch goaltender" he has always been. Other teams have crashed almost as quickly, namely the Colorado Avalanche.

Leaders are going to have to be increasingly astute at understanding what "trends" are gaining momentum and how when they "go viral" this will affect their organization. Equally challenging, will be distinguishing what news is potentially momentous, and what flashes are simply blips of no lasting significance.

Proud of the Calgary Flames team

2011-02-04T16:04:00.002-07:00

Today I am proud to be a Calgary Flames fan. Yes, they have won six games in a row including their first ever victory in Atlanta since the "Flames" franchise played there. However, I am even more proud to be a Calgary Flames fan because of the organizational culture that the team represents, encourages, and celebrates.

First, Craig Conroy announced his retirement today and will now be serving as "Special Assistant to the Acting General Manager." This situation could have gone wrong in so many ways, and yet the Flames organization, under the direction of Ken King as President, did so many things right. First, this is a classy man who just played his 1000th NHL game, is a favorite with everyone - fans, teammates, media, etc - and yet the bottom line was he was not going to get in the lineup. Someone had to make the tough call for the good of the team and tell Conroy the truth - and Acting GM Jay Feaster did this last week. He could either accept assignment to the AHL farm team in Abbotsford or retire (because no team picked him up on waivers). You know this had to be tough on everyone and yet they did what was needed for the organization. Conroy admitted it was hard to take and wisely, he took about a week to decide what his next step would be.

Once it became clear that Conroy's choice was retirement, the Flames then took this very classy man and multi-favorite and offered him a "get a taste of everything in hockey management" position - something he will be good at and something the Flames and Feaster specifically at this time need. Conroy, of course, thinks he has won the proverbial lottery, getting to stay in Calgary (avoiding uprooting his family), stay involved with hockey and specifically the Flames, and get his feet into various aspects of hockey management and operations. In many respects, he did get a "golden job" - and every fan, player and media person agrees that it couldn't happen to a better guy.

Best of all, the team - no doubt led by their captain Jarome Iginla - all showed up today at the press conference where Conroy announced his retirement. Yes, this shows how much Conroy means to them as a friend, yet it is so much the "right thing" for an organization to see, for young players to see/experience.

Speaking of Jarome Iginla, the Flames captain who declined the invitation to the All-Star Game to spend time with his elderly grandmother, today's Calgary Herald article shows just what a good, classy guy Iggy is.

So I am proud to be a Flames fan today because their organization is truly classy.

Book Review - Soulprint by Mark Batterson

2011-01-13T09:35:00.005-07:00

Simply put: another awesome book by Mark Batterson. Soulprint: discovering your divine destiny is written to help each individual discover the unique destiny only s/he can fulfill in God's plan. If this sounds too much like a pop psychology self-help book rather than meaningful Scriptural study from a pastor, fear not. Batterson's addresses the issue right up front saying, "Make no mistake, this is no self-help book. Self-help is nothing more than idolatry dressed up in a rented tuxedo... here's the good news: there is nothing God cannot do in you and through you if you simply yield your life to Him. All of it. All of you." (p. 1)

Stopping along different points in the life of David, Batterson helps the reader pause and explore various "moments" that God has used and is using to shape each person's unique soulprint. Not surprisingly, he appropriately interprets the text, and then provides excellent application. He is a vulnerable and effective story-teller and the illustrations he uses rich. The discussion questions at the end of the book also could make this a meaningful small group study.

Personally, this was a challenging read, even for a long-time follower of Christ. Pastor Mark always seems to connect with challenges/issues I am dealing with in my faith journey. As a teacher of high school seniors, beginning to talk with them about writing a personal mission statement, this would be a wonderful resource book to help them walk through what I am trying to talk through with them. Likewise, having taught Bible college students, this would be a great book as part of a spiritual formation class, reflecting on similar concepts. I would highly recommend this for these audiences specifically, though it is good Christian reading for all.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah Press.

A message for Church Leaders from a pastor

2010-12-30T15:17:00.003-07:00

I am not currently on our church's elders board and have not talked to our pastor(s) about this blog, but I think it is worth a read from congregational leaders, even in rural Canadian communities where budgets can be tight.

Ken King's Leadership Example

2010-12-29T09:40:00.002-07:00

I am a proud Calgary Flames fan - though it has been hard the past five years, being eliminated in the first round four times and then not even making the playoffs last year. I have also been a decent Darryl Sutter supporter, realizing he's made some mistakes but have not been one howling for his neck for the last year. Nonetheless, I admit that yesterday's decision that Darryl Sutter step down as GM was necessary for the club to move on positively.

I love leadership... reading about it, talking about it, doing it, and every once in a while you get a chance to see good leadership. Yesterday as Flames President & CEO Ken King led the press conference, I think it was just another example of watching (listening to) great leadership.

First, King provided clarity on everything, even before the questions were asked. He stated that he had asked Darryl Sutter to step down. Now those story-hungry reporters have no question (did he resign or was he pushed?). Then he answered the Jay Feaster questions with his statement, "I asked Jay if he would be willing to take on the interim GM role? and he indicated that yes he would accept the role, though he did not take the assistant GM role with this goal in mind" - which we honestly all wondered about when King hired Feaster to "assist" Sutter in the summer. Finally, King was clear that both men solidly supported the coaching staff and that this was a vote of confidence for Brent Sutter and staff. King was also clear that he asked both of them (Sutter & Feaster) the question independently, not because he didn't support them, but because he wanted to hear it from them separately. Again... well, there's go another batch of questions the reporters all wanted to ask.

Secondly, King honoured the character of both men. In honouring Darryl Sutter, he highlighted his excellent work in returning the franchise from the sorrowful late 90's and early 2000's. He also commented that Darryl Sutter's response when asked to step down was "what can I do to help the club in this transition?" Then in honouring Feaster he indicated the new GM's character when he said, "The first thing he said was that he was willing to accept it, but it needed to be re-stated again that this was not why he took the assistant GM job." (You mean, you didn't take the assistant GM job knowing that Darryl Sutter was being publically crucified in Calgary and that you would probably get the GM job as soon as anything went wrong? WOW! Even more amazingly, I think King & Sutter & Feaster have me believing them.)

I was just "excited" after listening to the press conference. I believe Ken King and Darryl Sutter are/were good friends. And I believe this was a tough day for Ken King. And yet it was such an example of "good leadership" and it was so beautiful to see.

A few pictures of Rachel's 1st birthday

2010-12-14T22:06:00.009-07:00

What should we tell our kids about Santa

2010-12-13T11:19:00.002-07:00

Great article by Mark Driscoll in yesterday's Washington Post.

Family Christmas Letter 2010

2010-12-09T09:40:00.010-07:00

Dear friends,

For those of you who did not know, the reason you did not receive a Christmas letter last year is because our daughter, Rachel Lynne, was born on December 14. So while we did celebrate Christmas, a family picture and letter simply didn’t happen. Thus, this year has been twice as busy as last year – at least on the home front – yet we are able to find time to send you our greetings and news of 2010.

The first few months of 2010 were spent getting adjusted to the new ratio in the home – two children and two adults. Caleb enjoys his little sister… almost as much as his cars and his bike. Steve continues his work at Prairie Christian Academy and Sarah manages to chase after Caleb while holding Rachel.

The first real highlight of the year was April 11 as Sarah’s sister, Lois, was married to Gregory Lewis, a medical student from Wellsville, New York. Sarah was a (beautiful!) bridesmaid and Caleb, along with Greg’s nephew, served as ringbearers and pulled Rachel to the front in a wagon – or at least that was the plan! Since their wedding, Greg & Lois have been in Albany, the Philippines, Cambodia, Tulsa and again in Albany as Greg completes different internship rotations.

Later that week on April 17, Sarah’s brother, Jon married Kim Plett. Steve was privileged to give the charge to the couple at the wedding ceremony. “Uncle JB” & Auntie Kim live in Three Hills and are much enjoyed by Caleb and Rachel.

Over the summer months, we stayed fairly close to home, not feeling adventurous (or energetic) enough to go too far with two little ones. We took a few days to visit friends in Sexsmith, stopping at Uncle Nathan and Auntie Ruth’s in Edmonton each way to “break up the trip.” We went camping with Mom & Dad Ibbotson and Amanda for a couple days. We also took a very fun trip to Heritage Park with Mom & Dad Hunt. As you can see, we are very blessed to have both sets of parents in town and Caleb and Rachel thoroughly enjoy the blessing they receive.

Sarah and Rachel also flew out to Vernon for a couple days so that Rachel could meet Great-Grampa Friebel and visit Great-Gramma (Nana).

The school year started in late August, and along with his other responsibilities as Christian Education Co-ordinator at Prairie Christian Academy, Steve is also enjoying the challenge of teaching the grade 12 Bible class. One surprise “assignment” which Steve more than gladly accepted was to coach the PCA Sabres Football team (9-man league). It was the team’s first year and they managed to win one game in front of their home crowd! It was fun and a great chance to build into the lives of a group of young men as the school year started.
Sarah enjoys the weekly Mom’s Time Out group, attending the Tuesday morning group this year that Mom Ibbotson facilitates and for which Mom Hunt leads the childcare. So Tuesday mornings are an obvious highlight for Caleb & Rachel! We host a small group of 3-4 other couples with young children on Sunday nights and have also had other families in our home.

Sarah’s Grampa Friebel (95) went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 26. Sarah was glad to be able to fly out with Rachel (and Jon & Kim) for the memorial service, and even more thankful that she and Rachel had been able to go out in the summer. We are grateful for the examples we have on both sides of our family of serving Christ and loving, committed-for-life marriage.

May you have a rich Christmas season!
In Christ,
Steven & Sarah Ibbotson

Interesting Interviews with Canadian Television Creators

2010-11-30T16:29:00.001-07:00

Interesting interviews conducted recently by GlobalTV with the creators of two of our favorite shows - and they are both Canadians!

Interview with “House” creator David Shore
Interview with “Bones” creator Hart Hanson

IBM CEO Study - Capitalizing on Complexity

2010-11-19T11:31:00.001-07:00

I haven't read the whole pdf document but it looks very worthwhile for all leaders.

Book Review - The Grace of God by Andy Stanley

2010-10-29T10:55:00.007-06:00

Do we really need another book about grace? Yes, I enjoyed reading a previous Andy Stanley book about leadership and realize that he is an "in-demand" speaker. But on this topic...? Interestingly, in the opening paragraph of his acknowledgements, Andy Stanley shares that this same question came to his mind when Matt Baugher from Thomas Nelson books asked him to write the book. Fortunately for all of us, he graciously agreed to do so and Christians around North America (and hopefully around the world) will benefit from His insight into Scripture and teaching on grace.

In fourteen chapters, pastor Stanley covers a broad range of OT and NT characters and identifies a major principle (or two) that the biblical person's life illustrates. As someone who has grown up within evangelicalism, the individuals and their stories were familiar, and yet the understanding of grace that Stanley draws from the texts was refreshing and challenging. The book is well-written, theologically solid, and graciously convicting. For high school or college age students (or adults) who tend to choose either "law" or "grace" sides, the book is an especially well-explained treatise on the complementary-ness, not competitiveness, of this perpetual discussion. I highly recommend this book, for personal edification or a group study; for new believers as well as "mature" believers who want to be inspired to be more Christ-like without backing down from truth; and for the disillusioned who are hesitant to give Christ's grace another try.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available now at your favorite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Book Review - YHWH by GP Taylor & Paula K Parker

2010-10-08T13:40:00.002-06:00

Reading and writing a review of GP Taylor & Paula K Parker's YHWH: The Flood The Fish and The Giant, Ancient Mysteries Retold is one of the more intriguing tasks I have embarked upon recently. The reason is that while there is nothing specifically wrong or negative I can say about the book, there is also very little to say in terms of recommending it to others.

Although not stated explicitly, it seems the purpose of the book is to "fill in the details" on twenty stories from the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). And in so far as that seems to be its purpose, it accomplishes the goal decently. Positively, none of the "extra details" of the narratives contradict the biblical accounts, and they do fill in the details as one might imagine. At times, it makes up names that seem fitting for the historical time of the story, and yet at least in chapter 1, The Fall, the characters who would seem to be Adam and Eve are named Marah and Havva. The rest of the book seems to take seriously the biblical accounts as historically accurate, so this odd re-naming of Adam and Eve seems out-of-place with the rest of the book.

However, there are two negative features to point out... though they are not so much negative as non-descript. First, the writing is nice, easy to read, clear, and reasonable. Yet that it is all that one can say for the writing. It is not historically inaccurate, yet it also does not seem to include or explain any "additional" historical or cultural research that would add to the story beyond what your average high school educated student could add. It is not "brilliant writing" that makes this book come alive.

Secondly, and ultimately my largest criticism of this book is that it adds nothing to our Biblical understanding. Its nice to read on paper what me, my friends, pastors or others may have said in various contexts to fill-in-the-details of the biblical accounts. However, that is all this book is... another person's (two peoples') speculations about what happened based upon what the Hebrew Scriptures do say. Again, nothing wrong with their speculations, yet there is nothing more or less inspiring about their ideas of "reading between the lines" than any other suggestion. And there is nothing about their writing style or research or creative expression that makes this book worth purchasing as something that enlightens biblical thinking.

So, while I do not think anything bad will happen from reading this book, I cannot recommend one spend their hours reading this book, when the Book itself often stays on the shelf unopened or while other additional sources of good writing and/or biblical exposition remain untouched.

Book Review - Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado (re-posted)

2010-09-03T10:57:00.002-06:00

I was asked to re-post this book review since Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado releases this month.

A chance to review a book my Max Lucado is a gift opportunity… so I took it! And I am not disappointed. Outlive Your Life is a wonderfully written, easy-to-read, yet challenging text of 16 nice-sized chapters. As the title would indicate, Lucado help a Christian to make a difference with their life that lasts beyond their earthly existence. With his skillful mix of wants to provide stories and examples to illustrate Biblical principles, the book is both compelling and enjoyable.

The “outline” of the book follows select passages from Acts, showing how the early church lived out a principle and thus, the foundational practices that made the Christian community a perpetual impact to all parts of the globe. Two significant features of the book help the individual challenged by the text to personally apply the message. First, a closing prayer at the end of each chapter directly connects to the theme. Additionally, a “Questions for Discussion” and “Ideas for Action” section is included for each chapter at the end of the book, that could be useful for a small group study or digging deeper into the Scripture personally. I strongly recommend this book for both personal edification and possible small group study.

Book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available now at your favourite bookseller.

Gonzaga President appointed

2010-08-05T14:39:00.004-06:00

I received a newsletter from my alma mater, Gonzaga University, announcing the appointment of Dr Thayne M McCulloh as president. I do not know Dr McCulloh at all but from the press releases, he seems to be a well-qualified individual who has a good solid history with the school and seems to have emerged as the person of choice while serving as interim president. The interesting thing is that as a Jesuit university Gonzaga's president has always been a Jesuit and he is the first "lay president." Again, I have no personal qualms with the individual, the precedent setting, or the "suspension" of the bylaws. Nonetheless, I can imagine that must be an interesting and challenging organizational dilemma in terms of policy, mission and potential "drift."

A second thing to comment on today: "In Plain Sight," a television show featuring Mary McCormack and Frederick Weller is quickly becoming one of my new favorites, primarily because of its exceptional writing... and the acting is good too. It airs Monday nights on Global. It is starting to rival "Joan of Arcadia" as a little-known tv show with extraordinary writing. Hopefully it lasts longer than "Joan of Arcadia."

July 2010 Pictures

2010-07-31T15:23:00.010-06:00

Lest a couple of aunties "express their concern" that they do not see pictures of their niece & nephew posted regularly, and if any others are interested, here are some pics from July 2010.

Caleb, balancing with his trucks!

Our "Hall of Fame" boy

Rachel & mommy flying to Kelowna
to visit Nana & Grandpa Friebel

Happy 95th Birthday, Great Grandpa!

I'm so glad mommy & I came to see you!

False Statistics about Evangelical Christians

2010-07-27T09:41:00.005-06:00

A few good links today about statistical that have been reported about Evangelical Christianity that are untrue (and invalid).

Associated Baptist Press article "Evangelicals better than mainliners at retaining youth, researcher says"
Christian Post article "Sociologist Debunks Myths on US Christianity" by Lillian Kwon
Bradley E Wright - http://www.brewright.com/ (Univ of Connecticut sociology prof)

I believe the churches in the Three Hills area would parallel these findings and it is a privilege to serve at Prairie Christian Academy in partnering with parents and local churches in seeing our young people grow in their faith and stand firm in Christ after graduation.

Vacation Reading

2010-07-26T13:47:00.004-06:00

Did some challenging reading over the first week of vacation time in the area of leadership (one of my favorite reading topics!). The first book I read was Gary L. McIntosh & Samuel D. Rima, Sr.'s Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership (Baker, 1997). The authors did a great job reviewing the explaining the importance of understanding the dark side of leadership and then identified five types: compulsive, narcissistic, paranoid, codependent, and passive-aggressive. My personal self-analysis says that the two I am most susceptible to are "narcissistic" and "compulsive." (There's probably a couple people reading this who think I am also susceptible to "paranoid" but I wouldn't trust their conspiracy theories!)

The other book I am reading (not quite done) is Edwin H. Friedman's A Failure of Nerve (Church Publishing, 1999 & 2007). The author approaches the book from the perspective that in many situations ranging from family counseling to education to church ministry to business leadership, the well-differentiated person who is willing to "show some nerve" is the one who is most capable of leading a family/organization back to health. Regardless of the range of methods/techniques/theories that are prescribed in various contexts, it will be the person who is differentiated who will make meaningful (=lasting) change.

The first portion of the book describes how the cartographers of the late 1400's and early 1500's were sooooo wrong and yet discovery of new locations was "impossible" because of their erroneous maps and assumptions about the world/universe... and then how Columbus and so many others proved the "experts" wrong. The second portion of the book describes how continuing advances in medical/biological research show things about cells and diseases that have interesting parallels to human relationships. The discussion of the "self" within this context is quite interesting. A very interesting and mentally challenging read that provides some interesting insights into leadership.

Preaching what the text says

2010-07-26T10:58:00.003-06:00

Just got back from one week of vacation and am checking in on some favorite websites. A really good article at the Stand to Reason site by Greg Koukl. If we really believe in the inerrancy of Scripture, we should preach/teach that way (not use the Scripture as a diving board that we jump off).

Updated pics of our kiddos

2010-07-02T15:47:00.003-06:00

Pictures from June 2010

Random thoughts on a Friday morning

2010-06-18T10:32:00.003-06:00

Just a few things that have been going through my mind in the last couple weeks that I thought I'd post on the blog. You may find them interesting, humourous, strange or any/all of the above.

*Why do people, especially Christians, seem to put common sense and basic civility aside when they log in to Facebook?
*I care about news in my "friends" lives (eg. baby's birth) and am glad to see these kind of updates on Facebook. But I don't care that you went to the grocery store, made xyz for lunch, etc. Get off your computer and do something. Do nothing except enjoy silence!

*Professor Stephen Hawking has been in the news recently as he is taking a research chair position at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Waterloo, ON. Much of the discussion has focused on "how can Hawking not believe in God when his writings & lectures about the origin of the universe consistently point to the need for 'something' to have started the process"? Dear friends, do you really think Stephen Hawking's issue with God has to do with the origin of the universe? I would humbly suggest his issue with God has to do with something a lot deeper and more personal (than cosmic). If I need to spell it out further: How can a good, all-powerful God allow a brilliant person like him to suffer from a life-sucking, body-wretching, disease like ALS?

Why do I love living in Three Hills?
*Cruise Night - our son Caleb can be entertained for hours just sitting at the side of the road.
*The town garage sale which includes a free pancake breakfast.
*Where else can you get great deals like 2-for-$1 Coke/Pepsi (1L)? Three Hills IGA 25th Anniversary!

Hope you have a good weekend and
Happy Father's Day to my dad and my father-in-law,
both who are out of town for the weekend!

Review of Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

2010-06-11T10:30:00.001-06:00

Review of Outlive Your Life by Max Lucado

A chance to review a book my Max Lucado is a gift opportunity… so I took it! And I am not disappointed. Outlive Your Life is a wonderfully written, easy-to-read, yet challenging text of 16 nice-sized chapters.

As the title would indicate, Lucado help a Christian to make a difference with their life that lasts beyond their earthly existence. With his skillful mix of wants to provide stories and examples to illustrate Biblical principles, the book is both compelling and enjoyable.

The “outline” of the book follows select passages from Acts, showing how the early church lived out a principle and thus, the foundational practices that made the Christian community a perpetual impact to all parts of the globe.

Two significant features of the book help the individual challenged by the text to personally apply the message. First, a closing prayer at the end of each chapter directly connects to the theme. Additionally, a “Questions for Discussion” and “Ideas for Action” section is included for each chapter at the end of the book, that could be useful for a small group study or digging deeper into the Scripture personally.

I strongly recommend this book for both personal edification and possible small group study.

Book has been provided courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available now at your favourite bookseller.

Remembering the Fear, Thankful for great medical personnel

2010-06-07T14:31:00.004-06:00

I went to the Three Hills Health Care Unit today for some regular bloodwork. Just ahead of me in the line was a mom with her young son, I would guess about 4-5 years old. I was reading a book when the lab technician called him in and fairly quickly I could hear him beginning to cry. Suddenly a rush of memories and emotions flooded my heart, mind and tear ducts as I remembered the many times I had to get poked and prodded by medical personnel. After just a few seconds his mom and the ladies taking the blood were able to relax him and soon it was all over. Yet I "felt" the fear again, not just of the pain of the needle but of the unknown and how much it could/would hurt. Yet I'm also grateful that these people did their job kindly yet carefully and properly to help me "get better." A few minutes later it was my turn and I got my bloodwork done, and remembered as had been drilled into me by my mom, "Always say thank you to the nurses & doctors for taking care of you."

In leadership, sometimes one must battle fear and recognize there's going to be pain before things get better. Yet when healing takes place, you'd never want to go back to the place you were in before the pain. And always say "thank you" to those who help you get through the pain to a position of health.

Sports Collectibles... gone crazy

2010-06-02T13:34:00.003-06:00

I enjoy collecting hockey cards... and I also enjoy the investment opportunity they can present too. I am hoping to build a decent collection for my son and daughter so that they can "cash in" at some point in the young adult years for college (or something beneficial). Nonetheless, these two stories from Tuff Stuff show that collecting hockey (or baseball) cards and other memorabilia has gone and can go *c*r*a*z*y.

Strasburg Card Sells For $16,403
On eBay sales Stephen Strasburg's baseball card is living up to the hype. Strasburg's one-of-a-kind 2010 Bowman Chrome SuperFractor rookie card sold on Ebay Inc's auction website, sold for $16,403 after opening at 99 cents. Strasburg, the No. 1 pick in Major League Baseball's 2009 first-year player draft by the Washington Nationals, is in Triple-A and is scheduled to make his major-league debut during a series with the Pittsburgh Pirates on June 8. Since joining Triple-A Syracuse on May 4, Strasburg has gone 3-0 with a 0.39 earned run average in four starts, striking out 27 batters while walking just four.
The equivalent card for Nationals rookie pitcher Drew Storen, who has a 1.69 ERA after being picked nine places behind Strasburg, is being sold on eBay with a "Buy It Now" asking price of $4,999.

From Scott Fragile's 7th Inning Sketch at TuffStuff.com
Although my share of watching sports history unfold live is modest at best compared to some of the more seasoned sports fans I know, I've never been tempted to add to my list unnaturally. I appreciate having been at the various events because of the thrill and excitement they provided at the time and because of the great memories they provide all these years later. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for many other collectors. In fact, the list of "fake attendees" of a recent game is growing by the thousands as I write this. The reason behind the increase is because the Florida Marlins are currently selling the 11,000 or so unused tickets from the Marlins-Phillies game on May 29. That was the day Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay tossed MLB's 20th Perfect Game. The reason the tickets are now on sale more than 48 hours after the 27th out was recorded is because the Marlins are hoping to cash in on the speculative nature of fans and collectors. The team is selling the remaining tickets at face value and my guess is they will sell at a much quicker rate than the attendance-challenged Marlins typically see them leave their box office. So, for under $20 you can purchase a piece of history and tell your grandchildren you were in attendance the day Halladay made history. While some will cherish the tickets and add them to their respective collections, others will undoubtedly look to flip them on eBay and make a quick buck. The White Sox and Athletics did something similar for the perfect games pitched by Mark Buehrle and Dallas Braden, respectively. Collectors looking to make a quick buck after Braden's gem earlier this year shelled out anywhere from $15-$75 for after-the-fact ticket purchases on eBay, but considering Halladay's resume is far better than Braden's, collectors looking to scoop up a piece of history can expect to pay more than that if they go the eBay route. I guess I don't have a problem with the premise of making the unused (used, whatever you call them) tickets available, but I know I'd be bumming if I was one of the original 25,000 in attendance and my limited-edition collectible just morphed into a 1-of-36,000. To me, buying a ticket after the fact is like saying you were at the game because you saw the highlights on Sportscenter. The bandwagon-jumping "fans" who purchase the tickets in the next few days will have to live with themselves and the rest of the 250,000 people who will claim to have been at the game 30 years from now. For me, I'll just keeping attending sporting events for all the right reasons and hoping history evolves right before my eyes.

Leaders Who Micromanage

2010-06-02T13:25:00.002-06:00

Interesting article by Perry Noble on the truth that good leaders do micromanagement... on occasion!

Book Review - The Vertical Self by Mark Sayers

2010-05-19T15:14:00.003-06:00

I find it difficult to write a meaningful review of this book because it says a lot of good things and yet it took too long to say it... and its not even 200 pages. As the author bio describes on the back cover, "Mark Sayers is a highly sought-after speaker, commentator, and thinker in the areas of faith and culture." Although I had never heard of him until reading this book, I can believe the bio is accurate. Sayers presents both a good analysis of how identities are being created in various ways in the 21st century as well as a solid biblical theology of personal identity within community.

Unfortunately, he spends so long - eight chapters or 77 pages - describing the various ways in which individuals present themself, some of which becomes overly repititious, that you cannot wait for the solution to be presented. In and of itself, that is not necessarily a problem, though when the solution is covered in two chapters (admittedly 90 pages in total) it seems to be a combination of not enough detail and too much broad stroke theology. Again, there's nothing signficantly wrong theologically or in terms of argumentation, the writing style (at least to me) just doesn't seem to fit the initial "analysis" provided in the opening chapters.

An intereseting book with good things to say, though it really seemed to this reader to be an awkward read.

This book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson publishers.

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round 3

2010-05-17T16:10:00.004-06:00

Not that my picks in round 2 were very good (50%), but here's my picks for the conference finals. In the Western Conference, its #1 San Jose vs #2 Chicago. This is probably going to be a magnificent series and I think it will be Sharks in 7. In the Eastern Confererence, I'll pick Montreal to beat Philly in six games.

Jesus Makes Beautiful

2010-05-12T08:27:00.003-06:00

After awaking this morning and getting all ready to head to work, I checked back to our bedroom one more time and my dear wife caught my eye. Our precious Rachel was making some happy sounds from her bed and so I went to her room and talked with her for a minute before bringing her in to Sarah. Meanwhile, our big boy Caleb also awoke, having come into our bed about 7:00 pm and now rolled over to see mommy, Rachel and daddy. And for me it was just (another) one of those moments where I realized how blessed I am. God has lavished His grace and kindness on me and I'm in awe. The words of this song (I remember Keith Green singing it) probably say it best.

Beautiful (by Dennis Cleveland)
Beautiful, beautiful, Jesus is beautiful, And Jesus makes beautiful things of my life.
Carefully touching me, Causing my eyes to see, Jesus makes beautiful things of my life.
(c) 1982 Maranatha! Music CCCM Music (Admin. by Maranatha! Music)

I proudly confess that I have often substituted Rachel's name into all but the last "Jesus" in the past few weeks as I sing it to our daughter. Nonetheless, I trust that when I'm beaming with pride over the family God has given me, Sarah, Caleb and Rachel that "all eyes see that Jesus really does makes beautiful things of our lives."

A couple pics of Caleb

2010-05-04T13:57:00.003-06:00

These two pictures of Caleb provided courtesy of Auntie Beckie (Rebecca Nicolson).

Get a Free Book from Multnomah WaterBrook Press

2010-04-29T13:53:00.002-06:00

The Radical Question by David Platt is being promoted by WaterBrookMultnomah Press, a publisher for whom I am pleased to do some book reviews. Although I have not yet read (or reviewed) this book, you can request a free copy of The Radical Question by going to clicking here or you can download and read chapter one here, or just find out information on The Radical Question by going to the Radical book web site.

NHL Round 2 Playoff Predictions

2010-04-29T10:25:00.003-06:00

Here are my predictions for Round 2 of the NHL playoffs.
As was the case for many people, they can't go much worse in the Eastern Conference!

Western Conference
San Jose over Detroit in six games - San Jose had their scare in round 1 & Phoenix proved Detroit is more beatable than we all thought.
Vancouver over Chicago in six games - Luongo easily outbattles Niemi. Chicago is a good young team, but not quite ready to get to the next level.

Eastern Conference
Pittsburgh over Montreal in five games - Though I'm still shocked Montreal dumped the offensively powerful Washington Capitals, good for them! But the Penguins are in a class by themselves in the East.
Philadelphia over Boston in seven games - Boston was impressive to beat the Sabres and made Ryan Miller look very human (something no one could really do this hockey season). However, I'm picking Philly to keep rolling with a good balance of strong defence, solid offensive balance, and Brian Boucher.

Open and Shut

2010-04-28T15:29:00.002-06:00

Another great episode of House, MD on Monday April 26, 2010 titled "Open and Shut." Basically, three great paradoxes concerning marriage:
1) Be honest with your spouse about the little things that "annoy" you... and be willing to let these indiosyncracies stay as little things.
2) What people sometimes see as a barrier or "excitement killer" in marriage, is actually God's protection for both partners.
3) Trust and forgiveness are so vital for a marriage.

Okay, well I'm not sure I summarized those best, yet I can assure you I have an amazingly patient and incredible wife!

That kinda husband in 50 years!

2010-04-10T21:18:00.003-06:00

I was coming home from the office a little early on a Friday afternoon (in my wheelchair) when Mr M passed me driving up to our area of homes. I was a little surprised to see him in our neighborhood, but waved nicely as he waved to me. A few seconds later my initial surprise found answer as I saw him stop by our neighbour's house. Mr R was carrying his box - I don't know what's in it but I'm guessing pictures of him and his wife, maybe their children and families, etc. As I drove by, I could see Mr R praying with his arms outstretched to the Lord in the car and Mr M with head bowed. I pieced the details together in those few seconds and realized Mr M was probably picking up Mr R and they were driving together to the L Nursing Home to visit their respective wives who are in care there. And I teared up as I drove by and thought, "Lord, I want to be that kind of husband in 50 years... or whatever!" Personally, I can't imagine outliving Sarah, given that I'm already older than her and perhaps "not as healthy" (too put it politetly!). But if for some reason in God's design she's in an extended care facility and I'm healthy enough to live at home, "Lord, I want to be that kind of husband" if that day comes. May God help me!

Leadership Reflections April 2010

2010-04-06T14:43:00.002-06:00

Just a few miscellaenous storylines running through my head... and a few blogs... related to leadership:

Jarome Iginla (captain of the Calgary Flames) - he could just dive in a hole and avoid the media, as apparently teammate Craig Conroy wishes he would, be he comes out every day and answer the call with the media. Whether its questions about how poorly he's playing, why the team cannot win when they desperately need to, of if he's even going to be a member of the Calgary Flames next year, he just keeps answering the questions. He's the leader. He's been given (and earned) the "C" and so that's his job he believes. He doesn't complain about being in a Canadian market and admits he loves being in a hockey-crazy city where the hockey team is the topic of the day. Good on ya, Jarome! Way to step up and be a leader even when its tough.
John Piper's upcoming leave - although its been reflected upon plenty in the last week, just want to express my appreciation to Pastor Piper for his godly example in realizing that something is amiss and taking necessary steps to deal with the soul concerns. BTW, equal kudos to their church elders for giving him a paid leave, even though Pastor Piper suggested he not be paid for this leave. Oh yeah, and again, good job by John Piper for inviting Rick Warren to speak at the next "Desiring God" conference.
I just gotta say: my heart is blessed reading the blog of Pastor Mark Batterson and the National Community Church in Washington, DC. Though I do not even pretend to understand American politics, I believe God may be doing something in Washington, DC when His Church is so keenly alive. No, I don't know what... how... but God is still moving in that city through His people.

Start Here book review

2010-03-31T15:50:00.003-06:00

Alex & Brett Harris, authors of Do Hard Things, have written a useful and friendly guide to taking the next step in Start Here. The authors want to help those young people who have a desire to "do hard things" get started on that journey and this is a how-to manual for that process. With the teenage or young adult audience in mind, the book is an easy read.

Although simple and straightforward, the book does contain good "life principles" for any person to follow and is not without doses of reality (eg. criticism will come, people will get excited about your idea but fail to follow through, etc) and the encouragement to keep going. Likewise, they do a good job in the opening chapters talking about discovering your natural talents, spiritual gifts, and discerning God's will. These sections have broader application than just a "hard thing" project, and are useful life skills for a Christian young person, presented in a Biblically consistent manner.

Overall, I am eager to hear the Harris brothers verbally when they are in Canada (Surrey in May and Edmonton in June). If their writing is any indication, it should be a challenging and inspiring day for our teenagers/young adults and will help them get started on making choices that will give their life the purpose and meaning God intended. Any teen who reads these books will be better for having done so.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah Press.

Book Review forthcoming

2010-03-22T13:54:00.002-06:00

I just received this book on Friday, March 19. I'm hoping to have it read and the review posted by Friday, March 26. Here's the promo info send to me by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing House.

At the age of eighteen, Alex and Brett Harris wrote Do Hard Things—and launched a movement that would change a generation. Young people around the world were ready to be inspired, ready to move beyond complacency, ready to rebel against society’s low expectations.

Now the highly anticipated companion book, Start Here, answers the questions Alex and Brett have received from thousands of teens on their worldwide conference tour and popular online community: How do I get started? What hard things does God want me to do? How do I keep from getting discouraged or burned out? What is the best way to inspire others?

Filled with stories and insights from Alex, Brett, and other real-life rebelutionaries, Start Here is a powerful and practical guide for young people who are ready to take the next step and blast past apathy. Let the rebelution continue.

This book was provided for review by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing House.

Finding Jesus at College

2010-03-10T09:21:00.002-07:00

A challenging article from the Chronicle of Higher Education relating to students faith development at Bible colleges and universities. Makes me want to buy the book and read the data!

Latest Pictures of Rachel

2010-02-26T10:22:00.003-07:00

Q&A with Phil Ryken, Wheaton's Next President

2010-02-24T10:04:00.002-07:00

Nice interview with Phil Ryken who has recently been selected to serve as Wheaton College's next president. Solid leadership philosophy comes through in the interview.

Book Review - Love & War by John & Stasi Eldredge

2010-02-16T14:00:00.007-07:00

I was hoping I could read Love & War: Finding the Marriage You've Dreamed Of in reasonably quick time as it arrived just in time for Valentine's Day... though ideally I wanted to read it through together with my wife the first time. However, the Eldredge's have written another excellent book... yet like their other works, it takes some time to digest sections of each chapter. Thus I have not finished reading the book... and will try to read it through with my wife on a second reading. Nonetheless, there are already three comments I can make:

1) The Eldredge's bring 25+ years of marriage experience to their writing, in addition to years of pastoral counseling. I have been married for less than three years and believe my wife and I have a fairly healthy marriage with good, open communication. Reading this book may help us go deeper together and consider potential future issues before they arise. Nonetheless, for me to "critique" this book seems potentially arrogant, at the very least risky.
2) The Eldredge's are vulnerable and authentic about the truth that marriage is hard work (even) for two people who sincerely love each other and desire to follow Christ. The stories they share, and the way in which they frame the discussion with their gifted word-smithing, provide real examples of the challenges a couple may face and they aren't afraid to get nitty-gritty, even making one uncomfortable.
3) While the Eldredge's previous books (especially John's) have been questioned for theological concerns, thus far Love & War shows a strong, orthodox theology of creation, humanity individually and corporately, marriage, sin, salvation and eschatology.

I am thoroughly enjoying this book and would recommend it to any Christian couple.

This book was provided by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing for review.

Recent pictures of Rachel

2010-02-09T21:39:00.011-07:00

Recent pictures of our precious little lamb, Rachel.
<--January 16

January 27

February 9

Miscellaneous leadership reflections of January 2010

2010-01-26T14:34:00.003-07:00

Just a few miscelleneous reflections related to leadership as January 2010 comes to an end...

1) The Calgary Flames are in the midst of a horrid seven game losing streak. All the doctors of Alberta could be employed full-time just setting broken ankles from all the Flames fans jumping off the bandwagon! The common theme from hockey experts as well as passionate fans with varying degrees of knowledge or insight seems to be "there's something that needs to be changed among the core group of players." I'm not personally convinced that there is a problem, personality-wise or talent/skill-wise with the core group. Furthermore, I'm also not convinced that any judgments - or decisions about breaking up the core group - should be made on this team until the NHL playoffs are over... though admittedly that does presume the team gets into the playoffs, an assumption that the current losing streak is bringing into suspense.

2) The Patrice Cormier hit and the ensuing suspension delivered by the QMJHL are appropriate. Cormier's hit was late, intentional, and vicious - you could see his elbow come up directly to Michael Tam's head. Credit to Cormier he issued a statement indicating he would not appeal the suspension and accept the punishment (which is pretty significant for a player trying to make an impression on the NHL team that has drafted him). Additionally, credit the NJ Devils for also making a statement that they will uphold the spirit and letter of the suspension (ie. not call him up to their AHL minor league team to play). A player making a stupid choice, being dealt a severe though appropriate punishment, and accepting it like a man. Really, when was the last time that happened? Maybe he wasn't that bad a choice for Canada's World Junior team captain.

3) Haiti Earthquake Disaster and Relief. I've talked with many people who have travelled internationally and they all agree that whatever other country they may have visited (eg. India, Philippines, etc), nothing compared to Haiti. Haiti was a whole other level of poverty, tragedy, lack of health-anything, lack of political-anything, lack of education-anything, and corruption... long before the January 12, 2010 earthquake. The earthquake that seems to have suddenly drawn everyone's attention to this area of the world has just exacerbated an already unbelievably horrific day-to-day existence in this country.

I don't agree with Pat Robertson's assessment that this earthquake was God's judgement on Haiti. Nonetheless, I think the Scripture is clear that when a nation chooses to honour God in their values and decisions, there will be "success." Likewise, when a nation chooses to explicitly exclude God from their life, it should not be surprising when God allows them to reap the results of their desires and choices (again, pre-earthquake the statistics for Haiti on infant mortality, poverty, life expectancy, etc were deplorable). Admittedly, this may not have been the people's desires as much as the will of a few political and dictatorial leaders.

It is amazing how the world has rallied to the support of Haiti... and it is my prayer that as acts of kindness and care are shown to Haitians, they will also hear the Gospel and begin growing a solid foundation for living for this country until Christ comes again. I think it is really cool that our Canadian government has stepped up to match gifts that citizen give to Haiti in such a generous way, even in the midst of our "economic troubles." Organizations like Samaritan's Purse and Haiti Arise are two that I would encourage friends to consider.

Moses' First Leadership Mis-communication

2010-01-18T16:13:00.003-07:00

In the first message in a new series on Moses’ life, our pastor (Tim Strickland) brought out a point from Scripture I had never noticed before. The day after Moses kills an Egyptian for beating a Hebrew slave, he tries to intervene in a fight between two Hebrews and they have a rather indignant response to him (see Exodus 2:14).

The point I had not noticed is the Acts 7:24-25 commentary on this situation…which is not explained in the Exodus account. “Moses supposed that his brothers would understand that God was giving them salvation by his hand, but they did not understand.” (ESV)

In other words, Moses kills the Egyptian who was beating on the Hebrew slave and expects that the Hebrews will now realize that this guy who grew up in the Pharaoh’s place is really on their side and now is ready to stand up to the Egyptians and save them from the enemy. But Moses’ fellow Hebrews have no such idea. In fact, they seemingly think the opposite. “You think just cuz you’re part of the Pharaoh’s household you can kill whoever you want and nothing will happen to you.”

How often in leadership situations do we presume that others know the reason and rationale behind our actions and decisions… when they may have no clue as to why we made such a choice… and in fact, may think the opposite of our intention? A person could walk away, as Moses did, or throw his/her arms up in frustration, asking “why won’t this people respond to my leadership?” A leader needs to clearly communicate… even stating the seemingly obvious… the reasons behind an action/decision to minimize the probability of misunderstanding.

Rachel at one month

2010-01-15T21:20:00.001-07:00

Just a couple pics of Rachel at one month old.

New Pictures of Rachel

2010-01-09T09:49:00.002-07:00

A few more pictures of Rachel taken in the first week of January.

Christmas 2009 Pictures - Rachel

2010-01-09T09:42:00.003-07:00

Rachel falling asleep with mommy and Caleb on Christmas Eve.
(Caleb had a little accident so his hand is in a cup of cold water)

Rachel's stocking had a few gifts for our precious little lamb.

Rachel and Mommy on Christmas day... in my Christmas outfit.

Christmas 2009 Pictures - Caleb

2010-01-09T09:26:00.004-07:00

Caleb got a truck, among other things, in his stocking and was quite thankful!

Caleb got many other wonderful gifts, but his favorite seems to be his Black & Decker tool bench with power saw, drill, hammer, nails and screws!

Caleb is ready to watch the World Junior Hockey Championships in Saskatoon... well, actually daddy enjoyed watching it more then Caleb!

Book Review - Love Leadership by John Hope Bryant

2010-01-04T14:13:00.002-07:00

Just finished reading Love Leadership by John Hope Bryant (not part of a blog review tour from a publisher, one I bought at Amazon.ca). I was interested in the book because it claimed to be insights based on interviews with 30 top leaders. Though it does list the individuals interviewed at the end of the book, Bryant does not share extensively from these interviews or their leadership stories.

Overall the book is a disappointment. Nice and true principles such as "Lead out of love, not fear" (chapter 2) and "vulnerability is power" (chapter 4), and "giving is getting" (chapter 5). However, a conclusion that the world needs good capitalism not selfish capitalism seems overly idealized. Good capitalism is defined as that which benefits all people versus capitalistic enterprise that just benefits individuals. Furthermore, the idea of "good selfishness" seems to be inconsistent with my understanding of Scripture (no matter how much one "twists" the concepts).

Book Review - Primal by Mark Batterson

2009-12-29T14:25:00.004-07:00

"This is the first book you should read in 2010." Yes, that is the publishers asked reviewers to say... and it is true!

Pastor Mark Batterson of National Community Church in Washington, DC has written another superb book, that I simply cannot recommend highly enough. The intent of the book is to help Christians live out the Great Commandment - love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. In short, he argues that believers must demonstrate compassion (heart), wonder (soul), curiosity (mind), and energy (strength).

Primal is both impossible to put down and impossible to not put down. The reader cannot get enough of this well-written and provocative challenge that gives practical ways to live out the Great Commandment. You just want to keep reading for the next golden nugget of truth explained so plainly. Yet one needs to stop and pause (after almost each page) to reflect on the convicting words of the author. Batterson's mind and pen (or laptop!) have clearly been led by the Spirit to penetrate the hearts and minds of readers as he explains the biblical principles of living out Primal Christianity.
I highly recommend this book as a great challenge to the heart, soul, mind and strength of each believer wanting to make 2010 a year that counts for Christ and His Kingdom.
This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Russell Hantz deserved to win Survivor Samoa

2009-12-23T10:49:00.004-07:00

I really believe that Russell Hantz deserved to win Survivor Samoa on Sunday night, not Natalie. While the fact that America agreed that Russell H was the "best player," I am also feeling slightly embarrassed and concerned that I am so disappointed that Natalie won and Russell H did not. Do I really think that his abrasive and obnoxious persona, arrogance, and constant lies and betrayals are commendable?

Allow me to explain. First, Russell said at the beginning that he was going to play the game, and that the way he played Survivor was going to be totally different from how he lived. He admitted he was going to lie, cheat, and annoy people and play the most strategic game possible. He did not say he was going to play a moral game or that this was the way to live.

Secondly, he did stuff on Survivor Samoa that has not done in the past 18 seasons: finding two immunity idols without clues, using the immunity idol the one time he needed to, but not playing it unnecessarily. He saw the intelligence of John to vote him off right after Laura, realizing he was an intelligent player and legitimate threat. He won a key immunity challenge at the end to make sure that Brett did not survive. While it took the other Foa Foa members cooperation, the fact that they went from down 8-4 to up 4-1 in members was simply remarkable and co-ordinated by the four staying strongly aligned.

Thirdly, Natalie did not play the game with a strategy. Perhaps after Foa Foa was down to four people and started to knock off the Galu members, she then adopted a "strategy." However, from what viewers saw, she never had a "stay low and let Russell take the bullets" strategy until the final few episodes. Even Mick would have been a more deserving winner, I think. He at least won a few immunity challenges and early on said that the "let Russell take the bullets" strategy would be shrewd. When Brett won the immunity that eventually led to Jaison being voted off, it would have seemed obvious that the time was perfect to try to team up with Jaison and Mick to blindside Russell (even though he had the immunity idol, he didn't plan to play it). Yet these three guys never even talked about "now's our chance."

So, no, I am not embarassed to say that Russell was the best player and should have won Survivor Samoa. Lying, cheating, betraying people is not the way to live and these actions are simply wrong. If this was the way he lived outside the game, I would be concerned, yet I don't believe it is. Nonetheless, part of almost any "game" (eg. sports, board games, reality tv) is the element of making your opponent believe you are going to do one thing and doing another (eg. a head fake in football, basketball, or hockey; a change-up pitch in baseball or stealing a base). I'm looking forward to seeing season 20 of Survivor: Heroes vs Villains begin on February 11 and hope that Russell will be one of the cast members.

A few pics of Rachel

2009-12-16T15:17:00.005-07:00

We brought our precious Rachel Lynne, home from the hospital today. Here's a few pics taken since Monday.

In case you were wondering about her name: Rachel is the Hebrew word for "lamb" and a name we liked. We trust that this precious little girl will grow up to trust in the Lamb of God personally and love and serve Him, as well as lead others to know the Lamb. Lynne is a fourth generation name in the Hunt family, Sarah's middle name, as well as grandpa Marlowe's middle name (without the "e") and Sarah's grandpa Hunt's first name (also without the "e'). We trust that Rachel Lynne will grow up to a beautiful woman like her mother, a woman of humble/quiet character and spiritual depth and beauty.

Rachel Lynne has arrived

2009-12-15T12:46:00.002-07:00

We are praising the Lord for the safe arrival of a healthy baby girl, Rachel Lynne Ibbotson on Monday December 14 at 4:16 pm weighing in at 8 lbs 1 oz. Pictures will be forthcoming both here and on Facebook. Sarah and Rachel are doing well. Steve is fine too. Caleb is being spoiled by his grandmothers!

Ted "Teeder" Kennedy's hero

2009-12-09T11:26:00.004-07:00

Just found this great article, In Memoriam, by Ted "Teeder" Kennedy's son, Mark, at the Christian School Journal blog.

Book Review - More than a Match

2009-12-08T14:49:00.003-07:00

You would think the son of Dr Gary Smalley, long-time marriage and family counselor, would have a better chance than most of having a great dating and marriage relationship. As Michael Smalley and his wife, Amy, share... it did not turn out that way. Their book, More than a Match discusses how there is more to marital compatibility than just filling out the 436 questions to arrive at your 29 areas of compatibility on eharmony.com

The Smalley's do a good job of sharing their personal journey and in the process, explaining a number of key discussions a dating or engaged couple needs to have as they prepare for a marriage. As they discuss their relationship, it was slightly frustrating, even disappointing, to read some of their story. In my estimation, some of the issues that brought significant struggles into their marriage relationship were concerns that even the most novice pre-marital counselor/advisor would have waved red flags about very early on. Of course, since Amy ended a previous engagement in May and she and Michael were married by December of the same year, you can guess that there was not much time to throw red flags up on these issues... and of course the timing/rush is one of the significant issues.

The principles they discuss are important, though I found myself thinking "duh" a lot of the time. Unfortunately, their romance story had so many problematic features that its difficult to feel much sympathy for the struggles they faced initially in marriage... though again, they do share honestly and provide wise solutions to these struggles.

There are many good books for dating/engaged couples to read as they prepare for marriage. This could be a useful book for a couple to read in preparation for or alongside pre-marital counseling.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah press.

Stephen Harper visits China - An example of good leadership

2009-12-03T13:33:00.003-07:00

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's visit to China over the past few days has drawn lots of media coverage due to the Chinese government's "reaction" to his absence until now. Nonetheless, from my perspective, Harper has done our country proud by standing firm on the major human rights issues that exist in China, especially in regards to people of faith. He has even risked "financial benefits" for our country for doing so... and now will be reaping the rewards.
In addition to a leader standing up for an important issue even at the risk of financial loss, Harper has also been wise in being culturally sensitive and not in any way attempting to talk about specific issues in public contexts (eg. press conferences) and bring shame upon the Chinese leaders. This would be catastrophically detrimental to the Canada-China relations as well as to the hope of bringing resolution to the issue. Thanks Stephen Harper for being an example of good leadership!

Book Review - God's Love series

2009-12-01T14:52:00.010-07:00

I was more than happy to receive two books in the "God's Gave..." series by Lisa Tawn Bergen as our toddler son is beginning to enjoy books. Unfortunately, these books are for a little older child, I would suggest between 5-8 years old, rather than for children not yet school age.
In terms of content, the books are a nice way of introducing the concept of God as the Giver of all things. In God Gave Us Love the idea that there are different types of love and yet they all come as a reflection of God's love for us is clear. As well, in God Gave Us Christmas the foundational meaning of Christmas is explained. The "family" in the story are a traditional, mother & father bear, grandpa bear, and cub with brothers and sisters. The simply yet clear message of each book is in line with Scripture and represents good theology.

The illustrations and artwork seem nice, though I would not pretend to be any sort of accurate assessor of the quality of this area.
From looking at these two books, I would guess the whole series is solid and a decent purchase for young families.
This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing House.

Buy the book at Amazon.ca

Finally some more pictures

2009-11-27T09:06:00.003-07:00

In the newsletter I promised some pics. Now they are finally here!

The pictures of Caleb reading with each of his grandpas are some of our favorites!

Book Review: 99 Promises for Tough Times

2009-11-23T11:32:00.005-07:00

I confess that when I agreed to review two books for "The Value Gifts" book tour, I was hoping one of the books in the "99" series would be 99 Ways to Stretch Your Home Budget or 99 Ways to Entertain Your Family for Free since I don't consider myself a financially creative fellow... though my brothers and sisters could describe many creative ways in which I "saved" money in the past "creatively." Alas, I received the book 99 Bible Promises for Tough Times by Randy Petersen. I would consider myself fairly aware on this topic having taught various Bible courses at the college level for ten years as well as having taught portions of the Bible in other contexts.

The book is nicely broken up into seven sections dealing with various types of tough times. A "devotional thought" from the specific Scripture passage is given. Although not overly deep, the author does a good job of connecting the Scripture passage to the Biblical promise and does so in a way that is neither "proof-texting" or weak theology. Graphically, the book is nicely laid out also. Nothing spectacular about the book, but solid in content.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah publishers.