Dad's Daily Grind

Christmas Wish List 2010

2010-12-15T22:28:00.001-06:00

Hello Everyone and Merry Christmas from Ohio’s Northcoast!

The snow is falling and the wind chill is dropping, but all is alive and well, and excited about what God is doing on our campus! We have just completed such an incredible semester! In September we baptized three of our students and in November we saw another six students accept Christ as their Lord and Savior! Plans are in the works now for another Baptism Service this coming semester! We are successfully ministering to almost 10% of our entire campus community. God is truly amazing! Plans are in place to reach even deeper in our campus in the coming months!

As we near the Christmas Season, we would like to share with you our Christmas Ministry Wish List! Here are several items that we are wishing for to help us impact our campus for Christ. Please take a look at our list and pray how God would have you help us. To God be the Glory, Great things He has done…and is going to do!

Bibles
Small Group Bible Study Material
Outreach Material Funding
Ministry Project Funding
Music & Video Equipment Upkeep
Banners
Copy Paper
Copier Toner
Printer Ink
Video Production Software

We would also like to ask you to put our family on your Christmas List! As NAMB MSC Missionaries, we are asking you to pray about being one of our financial sponsors! No gift is too small or too large! Whether a one time gift or monthly gifts, your financial support allows us to spend more time ministering to our students and making an impact on our mission field! Please contact us for donation information. Your support is amazingly appreciated!

May you and your family have an incredible Christmas and Holiday Season! Please continue to pray for your NAMB Missionaries on Ohio’s Northcoast! Please pass this on to everyone in your churches and on your email prayer lists!

Celebrating God’s Love,

Jim & Denise Whaley
NAMB MSC Missionaries
Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
www.LifeAtH2o.org

Sunday Dec. 5th Mind Dump

2010-12-05T20:42:00.003-06:00

Overall, not a bad week. A little stressful here and there at work. Enjoyed the TU Christmas Concert last night at The Ritz Theatre. Great program. It was Tabitha's last collegiate choir concert...still not sure how I feel about that! Snow fell for the first time this past week. First time, just a few flakes. Today, lots of snow in bursts...thankfully not that much on the ground. I don't like snow!

Here's a few thoughts from my week!

Had to bring in firewood yesterday. Love the fire...hate the wood.
Thankful for a paycheck, but I really would rather be on my campus full time.
Watched the girls decorate our home for Christmas...that NEVER get's old.
Enjoyed preparing for our "Presents" Christmas Message Series.
Had the last H2O of the Fall Semester on campus on Thursday. Makes Me Sad!
Having to wear layers of clothes now. Not a fan of winter here on the coast.
Slept in this weekend. So needed it.
Great church tonight at H2O Church.
Had 6 new guests tonight at church. Amazed at how God continues to bring new students each week.
Watching the season finale of 'The Walking Dead'. Great new show.
Fresh coffee and Mississippi Mud Cookies....SCORE!
Been conviced to do some serious rearranging to my daily schedule. Needed!
Praying for my family.
Really convicted about church structure and issues of multi-site work.
God's at work here...tryin' to be extremely sensitive to His direction.
Love my family beyond words.

Have a great week.

Thanksgiving Day Quick Thoughts...

2010-11-25T10:29:00.002-06:00

I have SO much to be thankful for!

My relationship with Jesus Christ.
My amazing Bride!
My incredible Daughter!
Our puppy!
My health.
My best friends...you know who you are!
My friends.
My calling!
My ministry!
My job...sometimes! LOL!
My coffee.

I have seemingly lost my ability to manage time. I seem to be falling behind in every aspect of my life! Multi-tasking used to be my middle name...now, I guess my ADHD is out of control! LOL! Pray!

I love to blog, yet can't quite seem to get on it. My head is busting at the seams with things to say and put on paper, yet I struggle getting back here. Pray!

I have 2 books started that I want to finish writing. Time is my enemy. I want so bad to finish them quickly. Need ability to focus and get these finished! Pray!

Winter is upon us, here on the Northcoast. Which means incredibly large heating expenses. Really need $$ help for that. Pray!

I have a strong sense that God is expanding my ministry territory. Been sensing it for a while now. Not sure the direction...excited...horrified! Pray!

There are more days than not that my life seems out of focus. Thankful for an amazing family and dear friends that keep me keep things clear! Pray!

Creative Idea For Prayer...

2010-07-19T20:10:00.001-06:00

Just posted this article at our Collegiate Ministry site. Phenominal idea! Get busy!

Reign On The Fourth Of July...

2010-07-04T23:04:00.005-06:00

I love the 4th of July! Since we've moved to Ohio, we've unintentionally created a tradition of going to our city park, hanging out for the bulk of the day, then watching the fireworks show at night! This year was no different. We headed to the park around 4:00pm, found us a great place to park in the shade, and set up camp under an incredible shade tree! We were in direct line of the fireworks display...it was only a matter of time.

We packed all kinds of food, played games, and literally had quality family time. As I kept watching other people in the park, it really dawned on my that we were no different than the other hundred's of families that were out there in the park with us.

Everywhere I looked, I could see the family units gathered together, some had tents, some had yard games, some brought barbque grills, there were lots of love and laughter everywhere.
As the sun began to set and darkness was creepin' in, we noticed so many people were filing into the park, each anticipating the fireworks hoopla that was yet to come. It didn't take long to see each group gathered into their own little 'groups' scattered all over the park. Even though I've seen this annual trek of people each year, something seemed different...

As dusk fell on the park, the anticipated arrival of the annual pyrotechnics grew stronger. At the stroke of 10pm, the first of the explosives rocked the ground we set on and a hush fell over the entire park. It was time! But in the middle of the fireworks display, God reigned down on me in such a unique way. There in the twilight of the fireworks, I saw the family groups from all over the park each with their face toward the light. Everyone was captivated. We were all caught in the shock and awe of the moment. I could hear the oohs and the aaahs all around me. It was in that moment that Matthew Chapter 4 came alive to me!

"And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics, and paralytics; and He healed them. Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan. And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him." Matthew 4:23 - 5:1

Jesus' fame had spread throughout the land. He had rock star status. Wherever He went, crowds gathered...waiting...anticipating...watching...each had their face toward the Light.

I have so much hope that we will once again gather together, each in family units throughout our land, gathering in great multitudes, caugh in the shock and awe of the Savior that gave His life for us. May we be captivated to the point that our entire world comes to a screeching halt, so that His Word...being in His Presence, is THE most important thing in our life. May we be silent before Him, except for the oohs and aahs of our own inner child.

And may we always be set with our face toward The Light...

The State Of College Ministry...

2010-06-26T20:38:00.047-06:00

It's not pretty...but the potential is amazing.

There is absolutely no doubt that the possibilities are endless in the areas of college ministry. From coast to coast, border to border, our homeland is littered with college campus' of every shape, form and fashion. From the commuter Junior Colleges to the behemoths such as The University of Kentucky...UCLA...The Ohio State University, students from ages 18 to 25 populate the landscape of America like never before. We are witnessing the birth of the largest generation in history. Already larger than The Baby Boomer Generation, our current class of want-to-be adults stand poised to rewrite history as we know it. But if we as Christian leaders don't intentionally and aggressively reach out to them, we're in for a rude awakening...and the results will be devastating!

Where did we go wrong? What caused this drastic turn that these amazing students are taking away from the church and away from a relationship with Christ? Such deep questions, that will never be answered in the confines of my menial little blog. But hopefully this will jumpstart our thought processes as we maneuver our efforts of evangelism and discipleship in the turbulent waters of The Next Generation!

The thoughts I share in this post are strictly my personal views taken from years of experience and observations as I’ve served His church in a variety of positions and locations. It also includes conversations that I’ve had with other friends and colleagues in various ministry situations. Whether you agree or disagree, remember this is just my observations. Please feel free to share yours in the comments. I welcome your input.

I believe the tide started turning for this group years ago when they were attending our Children's Sunday School classes and our Kid's Church programs. Entirely too many times, our Sunday Schools (SS) are nothing more than a Sunday Morning baby sitting service. We've staffed our Children's SS with individuals that, in all honesty, were the only ones left in our churches that said, 'Yeah, I'll do it' after we've begged and pleaded with every member on the roll books. Never before in all of my life have I seen a lack of interest and passion from our church members in the area of Children's Ministry. I've always believed that you can measure a person's true commitment to their church by their commitment to the church's Children's Ministry. Throw in a color sheet here, popsicle sticks and some glue there, and voila' we have a Children's Ministry! I do want to say a huge 'Thank You' though, to some invaluable Children's SS teachers I've seen over the years, like Margaret Burton at FBC-Swifton, AR; Mrs. LaVerne at Rowe's Chapel BC in Caraway, AR; or Floyd & Jane Killough at 2nd Baptist Church in Monticello, AR. True warriors, in my opinion!

As for Kids Church, oh the possibilities are ginormous! But I've seen some real losers too. I've seen entirely too many churches use Kids Church programs as nothing more than an excuse to remove our children from our 'big church' services. I once remember visiting a church...and a very large, contemporary one at that, who proclaimed to have a "kickin' good Children's Church Program". Upon personal investigation, it was nothing more than a free-for-all, with literally dozens of kids actually hanging from the rafters! Totally out of control, yet the adults in charge, thought it was the greatest thing known to man. As to an exclamation point to my thoughts on this subject, I was recently informed by a local SBC pastor that his church does well in the area of children's ministry. I asked how he had come to that decision. His reply still sends cold chills up my back. He informed me that "Our church does VBS for one week during the year, and that's all we need to do to have a great children's ministry."

Yep, he actually said it.

On more than one occasion.

And it still makes me nauseous...and angry.

Our next step in the progression of these students is the amusement park ride known as 'Youth Group'. This is an up and down, backwards and sideways assault on the roller coaster of puberty. Think about it: our current generation of students ages 18 - 25, were in youth groups all across our country from 1997 to 2004. During this time, the 'big thing' in youth ministry was to break away from the standard classroom type setting when your having your big meeting on Wednesday nights to a more relaxed atmosphere of used couches and comfy chairs arranged in a myriad of ways as to make the students comfortable. We traded in our discipleship teachings for fun and games. We were known throughout our communities as the place to be to 'have fun and hang out' with your friends. That, in and of itself is certainly not a bad concept. But seriously, where was the teaching? It sort of turned in to a 'teen-age sitting' service in the middle of the week.

After all, I should know this regiment down cold! I was a 4-star general in youth ministry. During that time, I was not only leading my youth group in this exact same fashion, I was the torch bearer and the leader of the processional of this new method throughout my own association of churches, other local churches, and in my state convention.

And it was working...or so I thought. During this time, I was serving in a combo position in the largest church in my county. We were blessed to have an incredible family life facility, that I took complete advantage of. It was a youth magnet. We were the hottest ticket in town on Wednesday nights. I had more students than I really knew what to do with.

And then it hit me.

All fun and games. Very little if any, Jesus.

I was radically convicted.

I began to restructure the Wednesday night agenda. The result, our number of students began to decrease rapidly, just as I suspected would happen. When the smoke had cleared, I was left with about a dozen students that, I can honestly say, were the best students I've ever led. They 'got it'. And wanted more of it. They began soaking up Scripture like a massive sponge. They were so hungry for His Word, they began to come to my office during the week for additional one-on-one time of discipleship. Totally blew my mind.

Then the unexpected happened...

This core group was now being equipped with spiritual ammunition to attach their high school campus. They were fearless...gunslingers for real! As their passion and love for Jesus Christ grew, it became noticeable at school. Literally, lives were changing right before my very eyes. They became mouthpieces for the Gospel everyday on their campus. They began bringing their friends to Wednesday night youth group...and to Sunday Worship. Before we realized what was happening, our youth group had now surpassed those earlier attendance figures, and was seriously THE place to be on Wednesday nights. It was awesome!

But not every youth group made that transition. Many were left in the clutches of that fun and games monster and it has put the finishing touches on crippling a large majority of this great generation. As a whole, we realized a little too late. Much too late to salvage this kids.

Are there exceptions to what I've described? ABSOLUTELY! WITHOUT QUESTION! I've seen some killer youth groups. Some so good that it made me want to be a youth again! I'm so appreciative of those leaders who were willing to go against the grain of the mindset of this youth group mentality. Guys like Shane Knight, Youth Pastor extraordinaire! He killed it during the many years he served the youth in churches throughout the south. I have such a huge admiration for guys like that! But by and large, I believe we failed to connect the majority of these students with relationships that would have eternal implications. And the result is the fact that 7 out of 10 students that have grown up in/attended church as a youth, NEVER go back to the church after their high school graduation! Seventy percent! In some states...like mine...more like 80%!

So this begs the question, 'Are we truly embracing the fact that nearly the entire campus population at the majority of universities across America either do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ or are fed up with 'church as usual''? Do we truly see the massive mission field that has been laid before us? Such a unique opportunity, but how willing are we to do something about it?

So what does this look like at the college level?

...to be continued.

Things I Lernt In The South...

2010-05-27T21:16:00.002-06:00

I'm proud of my heritage. And I absolutely love the South. When I read this email, I pictured everything on the list, just as it truly is...back home in the south! Enjoy!

A possum is a flat animal that sleeps in the middle of the road.

There are 5,000 types of snakes and 4,998 of them live in the South.

There are 10,000 types of spiders. All 10,000 of them live in the South, plus a couple no one's seen before.

If it grows, it'll stick ya. If it crawls, it'll bite cha.

'Onced' and 'Twiced' are words.

It is not a shopping cart, it is a buggy!

'Jaw-P'? means 'Did ya'll go to the bathroom'?

People actually grow and eat okra.

'Fixinto' is one word. It means 'I'm fixing to do that'.

There is no such thing as 'lunch'. There is only dinner and then there is supper.

Iced tea is appropriate for all meals and you start drinking it when you're two. We do like a little tea with our sugar.

Backwards and forwards means 'I know everything about you'.

The word 'jeet' is actually a phrase meaning 'Did you eat?

You don't have to wear a watch, because it doesn't matter what time it is, you work until you're done or it's too dark to see.

You don't PUSH buttons, you MASH 'em.

'No, Jew?' is a common response to the question, 'Did you bring any Sweet Tea?'

You measure distance in minutes.

You switch from heat to A/C in the same day.

All the festivals across the state are named after a fruit, vegetable, grain, insect, or animal.

You know what a 'DAWG' is.

You carry jumper cables in your car - for your OWN car.

You only own five spices: salt, pepper, Tony's, Tabasco and ketchup.

The local papers cover national and international news on one page, but require 6 pages for local high school sports and motor sports, and gossip.

You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday.

You find 100 degrees Fahrenheit 'a bit warm'.

You know all four seasons: Almost summer, summer, still summer, and Christmas.

Going to Wal-Mart is a favorite pastime known as 'goin' Wal-Martin' or 'off to Wally World'.

You describe the first cool snap (below 70 degrees) as good chicken stew weather.

Fried catfish is the other white meat.

Crossing Borders...

2010-05-18T17:26:00.004-06:00

I just want to see if I got this right...

If you cross the North Korean border illegally, you get 12 years hard labor.
If you cross the Iranian border illegally, you are detained indefinitely.
If you cross the Afghan border illegally, you get shot.
If you cross the Saudi Arabian border illegally, you will be jailed.
If you cross the Chinese border illegally you may never be heard from again.
If you cross the Venezuelan border illegally, you will be branded a spy and your fate will be sealed.
If you cross the Cuban border illegally you will be thrown into political prison to rot.

But...
If you cross the United States border illegally, you get:

A Job
A Driver's License
Social Security Card
Welfare
Food Stamps
Credit Cards
Subsidized rent or a loan to buy a house
Free Education
Free Health Care
A Lobbyist in Washington D.C.
Billions of dollars worth of public documents printed in your language
The right to carry your country's flag while you protest that you don't get enough respect
And in many instances, you can vote

I just wanted to make sure I had a firm grasp on this situation.

.

Collegiate Ministry Newz From The Whaley's

2010-05-11T11:52:00.000-06:00

Collegiate Ministry Newz From The Whaley's

2010-04-04T07:47:00.001-06:00

Such a beautiful Resurrection Sunday here on the coast! Prayin' for all churches to bring the love today! Hoping for vast amounts of life change.

Running Behind...

2010-04-03T12:20:00.003-06:00

Been running way behind! Just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day anymore. I love blogging...absolutely love it...but time is a formidible opponent for me! I pray for the ability to get things calmed down so I can spend some quality time doing one of my favorite hobbies. Hope you're having an amazing weekend. And I truly hope you have a phenominal Easter weekend. Invite someone to church with you. Anyone. Even a total stranger! Make a difference. I'll be back soon...

2010-03-17T06:02:00.001-06:00

Watched the sunrise on the coast today! That still staggers the mind! We serve such an incredible God! Hope you make the most of Him today!

An Atheist's View...

2010-03-14T19:04:00.002-06:00

Sometimes, we just need our world rocked!

Dan Kimball is one of my favorite authors. I've read everything he's published, and with each book, it just keeps getting better. My favorite thus far is 'They Like Jesus But Not The Church'. The title literally says it all.

Now after following Dan on Twitter, and being Facebook friends with him, I've had a few opportunities to chat with him on different subjects. Each time, I come away from the conversations even more impressed with his heart and passion for reaching the lost/unchurched. I would love more time to get to know him.

I can only imagine what a church service would be like at his church, Vintage Faith Church. Little did I know that I would get a rare glimpse into one of their services...from an Atheist!

This is an article that was written by an Atheist, as he was visiting local churches in that area. It is an absolute eye opening blog post that is causing me to most certainly do some inward reflecting. It is also an amazing testimony of the Vintage Faith Church family. I am so very thankful to have read this article. I appreciate his viewpoint so very much.

Here is Dan's take on the article.

Here is THE article.

May you be radically moved!

Crazy Desserts...

2010-03-12T20:46:00.004-06:00

Don't knock it till you've tried it! Yep...frozen bananas covered in chocolate, then sprinkled in chopped peanuts! A-MA-ZING! The last time I had this was when I was visiting my Dad in Phoenix during the Christmas season. One of the highlights of the trip was a trip to Glendale, AZ to hang out in their city park! During the Christmas season, this park was one of the highlights of the trip for us. This city park literally came alive! And of course, food vendors were everywhere! When we first discovered this amazing frozen treat, we were hooked! I have often times longed to go back and re-experience those Christmases! And it was my incredible daughter who suggested trying this at home. It worked!

We'll definitely be doing this again...soon!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Something New....

2010-03-11T00:15:00.003-06:00

I'm continually amazed at the vast amout of 'make easy money' type things that are offered in every nook and cranny on the web. In every possible type of situation, one can 'do this' or 'try that' or well, you know what I'm talking about! The really funny thing is I've actually tried a couple of them before. Made a little bit of extra cash...but not much...not NEAR as much as what was promised. But that's OK...I enjoy what I did, and didn't loose any money....that's the main thing. But this past weekend though, I've seen something kind of new to me. It's a make money thingy alright...but not the 'get it quick' kind of things. Got to put some effort into this one. I like that even more. I'm gonna give it a spin to see just how it works...can't loose anything because it didn't cost me anything to get started. Kind of looking forward to it.

Want to know what it is? Curious about maybe making a little extra for yourself? You KNOW you want to see...don't you! OK....here it is: Jim's Something New

Why don't you try it....can't hurt. Hey, I did it....

This just might be the last one for the winter...

2010-03-09T22:19:00.000-06:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

The Great Thaw has officially begun...Thank You Jesus!

2010-03-09T21:29:00.000-06:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

2010-03-06T11:42:00.001-06:00

Chillin' for a Saturday...watchin' the snow melt! YES! About to go with Denise to meet up with some good friends for lunch, then coffee. It's a great day!

Trying to get home in this crazy snowblast!

2010-02-26T21:04:00.001-06:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

2010-02-12T17:53:00.001-06:00

Saddened today by a guy who has a fear of greatness for God! Such potential, yet will never experience it!

2010-02-09T07:34:00.001-06:00

Wow! The snow is really coming down! Latest projection is almost a foot of snow! Will spend the day reading, studying and working on music! Be blessed!

2010-02-07T13:34:00.001-06:00

Spending the day celebrating Tab's 21st birthday! Can't believe she's actually 21...seems like only yesterday...
She's such an amazing young lady! So proud!

2010-02-06T19:39:00.001-06:00

Chillin' for the evening with the girls...watching Bridezillas! My girls are so funny! Trying to decide which new book to start. Just finished 'Primal'.

2010-02-06T19:35:00.001-06:00

Level 3 Snow Emergency meant no work today for Jim. So after chillin' for awhile, ended up outside digging out of the snowcastrophe! The drifts were crazy!

2010-01-31T12:09:00.001-06:00

Great Small Group this AM. Chillin' this afternoon before church tonight. Showing "Case For Christ" tonight! Praying God will open hearts...

2010-01-30T16:54:00.001-06:00

Meetings are over, now gonna unleash our students on the mall! Overall, meetings were not too bad...have definitely endured worse. Just need serious coffee!

2010-01-30T08:12:00.001-06:00

Spending the day in Columbus at the
State Student Leader's Meeting! I'm so proud of H2O's Leadership Team. They're definitely making an impact on our campus!

The Story...

2010-01-16T23:16:00.001-06:00

Looking for answers, sometimes you just need to read a story!

New Year's Day Plans...

2010-01-01T13:06:00.002-06:00

I'm going to spend the day just hanging out and running around with my family. I really need to enjoy this additional day off! Stay tuned for my upcoming '2009 Wrapup' and my '2010 Expectations' posts. I pray each of you have had a wonderful beginning to this new year!

Welcome To Our Ministry!

2009-12-28T20:25:00.008-06:00

Greetings from Ohio’s Northcoast! It seems as only yesterday that our family was enjoying the warmth of southern Arkansas. It’s still hard for us to imagine that we’ve been in Ohio now, going on three years. But what an incredible three years it’s been! We’re continually seeing God at work all throughout our campus. In these short years, we’ve seen almost 20 students accept Christ as their personal Savior, another 50+ students rededicate their lives, seven students become Small Group Leaders each leading a weekly on-campus Bible Study, and we’re seeing our weekly attendance in our large group worship gatherings plus our Small Groups near 150 students each week! With our latest project, we’re hoping to reach even more students on multiple campuses! This past semester, we launched our own Internet TV Channel, where we Stream our LIVE services each week, plus have them recorded for anyone to access them anytime on-demand. Our on-line audience currently nears 20 at each of our services, and as you can imagine, the possibilities are endless! And this is just a sample of what God is doing, here at Tiffin University.

Our H2O College Ministry is recognized as an official organization on campus, which gives us a voice in the University’s Student Government organization. We’re excited to tell you that as of this past semester, H2O is TU’s LARGEST ORGANIZATION on campus! We’re also invited each year to partner with the University’s Admissions Department in the recruitment of new students! In addition to the organizational status on campus, we’re also in the middle of launching a collegiate church plant, right on the campus. The River Church is a specifically designed church to meet the needs of our student population. Our vision is to reach them and grow them in Christ, helping them to become leaders in the church so that when a student graduates from our university, they are prepared to serve in a leadership capacity in their new church home where they begin their careers!

As you can tell, things are incredibly exciting and very busy in our ministry. We would like to invite you, your family, and/or your church to become involved in the excitement and this awesome move of God! Serving as NAMB (North American Mission Board) MSC Missionaries, we are responsible for raising our own financial support. I currently work a part-time job (28 hours per week), which assists in some of our expenses, but it’s not enough to take care of our housing and personal expenses. We try to spend as much time as possible on our campus, reaching our students and ministering to them. Because of the lack of time throughout the week to work more hours in my current secular job or even a second job, we would like to ask you to prayerfully consider becoming one of our financial partners in our ministry. We would humbly ask that you consider us as one of your mission’s projects and become one of our monthly financial supporters. This would allow us to continue to be highly visible on our campus, which I truly believe, is critical in the spiritual lives of our students.

Here are our websites that will give you a deeper look into our ministry:

H2O College Ministry Site: www.LifeAtH2o.org

The River Church Site: www.TiffinsRiverChurch.com

On-Line Internet Streaming Sites: www.ustream.tv/channel/h2o-live and www.ustream.tv/channel/riverchurch

All of your contributions are tax deductible. Whether a one-time gift or you are interested in being one of our monthly financial sponsors, your gifts are so very much appreciated...and very much needed. The strength of our ministry depends on you. For your gifts, you may make your donations HERE.

May God’s continued Blessings be poured out on you, your family and your church. I look forward to hearing from you. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call me. Thank you for your prayers and for your support! Have a wonder-filled New Year!

Serving Him On Ohio’s Northcoast,

Jim Whaley
Collegiate Pastor
NAMB MSC Missionary

2009-12-27T15:27:00.001-06:00

TRUTH: Love to watch falling snow! One of THE most beautiful sites on earth. From that point, I hate the snow, sleet and any cold weather. Just sayin'!

Christmas 2009...

2009-12-26T00:47:00.009-06:00

Christmas. The wonder. The magic. The mystery. The love. The baby.

Yep, that's what it's all about!

Such an amazing day today for me. There will be moments from today that will forevermore be etched in my mind. The looks...the gestures...the laughter... The intensity of the love that was in my home today was staggering! I was simply awestruck! God has blessed me with a family that gives me so much love, words can't describe it. I am simply not worthy of it. I really wish I could write down exactly how I'm feeling tonight, but that would be volumes! My heart overflows...

To the most wonderful family ever, I love you girls! Thanks for lovin' me back!

May your home be filled with His Love...

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Christmas Eve 2009 Thoughts...

2009-12-24T23:30:00.008-06:00

Today was an awesome day!

I had to work for part of the day...super busy...but not too bad overall. Then, my annual excursion began...

Each year on Christmas Eve, I make my yearly jaunt to some type of shopping establishment, for the sole purpose of watching people! I look forward to it all year long! Some times I go to the mall...sometimes to Walmart, or KMart, or even Target....but I'm always out there...watching! LOL! My Daddy got me started do it years ago. It was his habit also! But, Dad was also doing ALL of his Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. He NEVER bought anything, until Christmas Eve. He planned his entire day to shop...and to watch people!

I dare you to try it!

I joke sometimes with people and tell them that I get a year's worth of sermon illustrations just on that one day alone! LOL!

That's not far from the truth! LOL!

After I made it home, it was a mad rush trying to get all of the presents wrapped...but we made it! Tabitha went to Christmas Eve services at Devin's home church, which gave Denise and I prime opportunity to do all the 'Christmas stuff' we needed to do! Whew! We made it! LOL!

Now everbody's wrapped up, in bed, waiting on the big guy in the bright red suit to make his appearance. Denise has the turkey in the oven doing it's slow roast thing...dang, it smells good already! Me, just sitting here, enjoyed some rich creamy eggnog while ago, watching Christmas movies on the TV...and been having too much fun on Facebook and Twitter!

But somehow in the midst of the awe and wonder of the Eve, my mind drifts back to the Arizona desert. Back to where Christmas Eve was spent walking in the city parks and neighborhoods of Glendale and Phoenix being...being wisked away by the shere enchantment of Christmas in the desert. It was absolutely magical! For many years, our family would spend the Christmas season with my Dad in Phoenix. Those two or three weeks each year created multiple lifetimes of memories! My Dad was the emitomy of the Christmas Spirit...he was amazing!

It 's been many years now, since my Dad has past on...many years since I've been caught up in the wonderland that he always created...many years, but the memories remain strong! Even though tonight we'll spend our Christmas in the frozen tundra known as the Northcoast of Ohio, there's a part of me that will always go back to the desert, to experience the magic once again.

I'm there now....

Happy Birthday Jesus...Merry Christmas Denise and Tabitha...Merry Christmas Mom and Dad...

My Annual Shopping Trip...

2009-12-22T23:04:00.004-06:00

Today was the day I chose to complete my annual pilgrimage to that fascinating land of enchantment called...The Mall! LOL! Each year, usually extremely close to Christmas, I make my way to the stores...hard hat and steel toed shoes in hand...and face the onslaught of Christmas shoppers in hopes of avoiding the merry mayhem that seemingly always await me! LOL! Today, I chose to go to Sandusky, Ohio for my trip.

I chose well.

It was, without a doubt, one of my best yearly trips ever! There wasn't 'that' big of a crowd in any of the stores...no holiday riots to avoid...just right!

And to make it all 'Christmasey', the snow was lightly falling all day as I went in and out of stores. Just made for the perfect atmosphere!

I missed my girls....but I guarantee they'll enjoy what Santa found!

Daily News...December 21st, 2009

2009-12-21T23:44:00.002-06:00

Well, we survived another Monday! LOL! Things were spastic at work today...typical for a Monday. Sure glad to get out of that place! hahaha! Enjoyed a evening at home. But that did include giving Sandy (our dog) a bath. I think I got more water and soap on me! And the first thing she wants to do when I get her clean and dry....that's right, to go outside and play in the snow! LOL!!! Silly dog!

Now just chillin', doin' a tad bit of surfin' and enjoying a wonderful fire in the fireplace. I won't be able to enjoy it long, my eyelids are getting heavy.........

Weekend Wrapup...

2009-12-20T21:54:00.002-06:00

It's been a whirlwind weekend for our family. Yesterday was spent on a shoppin' extravaganza to Columbus trying to do as much damage as possible to our Christmas list! LOL! The three of us had a blast! I got lots of little things done last night after we returned home, mainly doing some minor writing projects, and some sermon prep for this morning's message.

Today, up early for final sermon prep, then on the road to Elyria Baptist Church to speak in the Morning Worship Service. Pastor Chuck was away for the weekend, and he gave me the opportunity to fill in for him. Denise and I had an incredible time! We discovered the most diverse congregation thus far to us in Ohio! It was amazing! We were truly treated like family! Such a warm and loving body of believers. Thanks Pastor Chuck for allowing me to hang out with your people!

After returning home, I was expecting to kinda lounge around the house the rest of the day, doing some reading...surfing...oh and don't forget napping! LOL! But Denise had one of those wild hairs and wanted to get back out to head to Findlay. No specific purpose really, just to go and look around. Tabitha and her boyfriend Devin joined us for this minor road trip...we had a great time! IHOP for supper....dang, didn't know that New York Cheesecake Pancakes could be so good! LOL

It's been obvious to me all day that God has been busy in churches all across this beautiful county! Just by reading my Twitter feeds, Facebook status updates and different blogs, God showed up EVERYWHERE! In all types of services...in multiple states. I've been truly blessed just by following the excitement.

Now it's time to chill for a while. We've got a dense cloud cover pretty much over our entire state...snow is lightly falling...we've got a fire in the fireplace...and fresh coffee beside me! Yep, I'm good to go!

Ya'll have a great week...stay tuned to my micro-blogs throughout the week!

God Bless...

2009-12-20T08:30:00.001-06:00

Speaking today @ Elyria BC. Prayin' that God fills us today w/ the magic & wonder of Christmas. Takin' a trip back to the manger! Such an amazing story!

2009-12-19T11:08:00.001-06:00

Random Thought: When God REALLY places a call on your life, you will sacrifice anything...everything, for the sake of the call. And, He ALWAYS provides!

Our First Snowfall Of The Season...

2009-12-19T10:22:00.002-06:00

You know, I was really beginning to wonder! LOL! Here it is, December 19th, and we finally got our first measurable snowfall of the season! Thankfully, this is only a taste of what the folks on the East Coast are feeling today! We got somewhere around 1", but nothing on the roads, thank the Lord! Right now, the snow is lightly falling. I would imagine that we should get another 1" or so before the day is over. Looks like a great day to wrap up our Christmas shopping!

We're fixin' to head down to Columbus to hang out at Polaris Mall...sure to find Krispy Kreme donuts along the way! :)

Looks like the girls are ready...super excited for a great day of quality family time!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-26T21:48:00.002-06:00

I have ate so much I'm miserable! Denise entirely outdone herself this year! Dude, I love that woman! But to be absolutely honest, this has been one of, if not THE BEST THANKSGIVINGS I have ever had! It's not about the food, although that was amazing...it wasn't even the movies we rented, even though I enjoyed each and every one...what it was about, was the fact that I got to spend the entire day with the two people I, without question, love the most...my two best friends...the two that I can always count on no matter what...the two people that I am most thankful for...my two girls, Denise and Tabitha! I love you dearly girls!

Thanksgiving Eve...

2009-11-25T21:26:00.002-06:00

It's a quiet evening here on the 'coast. Such a stress-filled day at work, and I was so glad to get off and get home! It's been a cloudy, dreary day...kinda rainy...just thick. We've even had fog warnings the past few days. Tonight though, it's cooled off, probably should start a fire.

Denise has been a busy little bee all day. She's already got the Lemon Ice Box Pie cooked...the Mississippi Mud Cookies done...the cornbread for tomorrow's dressing already baked. Dang, she's been busy! I sure do love that woman! Can't wait to wade off into her cooking tomorrow...she ALWAYS fixes an amazing Thanksgiving Feast.

I'm just so glad to be off work tomorrow, my stress level has just about erupted here lately...mostly thanks to the my job. An extra day off will be amazing! Tab started her Thanksgiving break today..slept in...then homework. Even on her break, she's busy making sure she doesn't get behind on homework. I'm so very proud of her. Her and her Mom definitely make my world go around! Words can't express how much I love them and am thankful for them.

Things are hoppin' at H2O! It's been absolutely crazy this year! So many new students involved...new ministries launched...students becoming missional...God is doing a might work at TU!

I pray that each of you have an amazing Thanksgiving...spend some quality time with your family...I know I am!

Welcome International Students

2009-11-19T00:11:00.006-06:00

Hello! If you're an International Student at TU, we want you to know that you are welcome at H2O College Ministry! Please, consider this your invitation to join us on Thursday nights at 7pm or Sunday nights at 6pm in Chisholm Auditorium!

Weekend Wrapup...

2009-11-02T06:10:00.002-06:00

It was an amazing weekend here on the Northcoast. So much to say, with very little time to write it down! I've got tons of stuff screamin' through my head that I want to blog about, but just can't seem to find the time to sit down and sort them out. Please pray for me that I can slow down long enough to download.

Our weekend was amazing! Lots of activities with our H2O students seemed to dominate our time! Denise has been sick, so I would ask prayer for her! Met a very gifted student on Thursday night...sure hope that God has plans for him to be a part of H2O. Natural talent...gifted beyond description...Christ-Follower...yep, he's got my attention!

Had an extraordinary time of personal worship & reflection last night. I've been watching God do some pretty amazing work in the lives of many of our students, and last night I just spent some time recounting those moments...awestruck! Our students are growing deeper in their faith walk, and sometimes I don't think they even realize it! They're becoming stronger...bolder...even sometimes aggressive in their faith! So encouraged by their witness!

Praying for an amazing week! You have one too!

Laborers For The Harvest...

2009-10-09T17:36:00.001-06:00

Pew study report: "Nearly 1 in 4 People is Muslim" May we be moved to the very marrow of our bones! Read the report here!

Servant Evangelism Projects...

2009-09-29T07:16:00.004-06:00

This past Friday night, we had a blast helping out our friends at East Fremont Baptist Church with their Laundry Mat Ministry. Our H2O students jumped right in! The church collects cans throughout the year and cashes them in every six months. Then the church takes the money collected and uses it to pay for as many washer & dryer loads as possible on this one night project. This time, they had collected $440.00 to be used to help as many people as they could wash & dry their clothes. We had plenty of Bibles and Gospels to give away as well. It was an amazing evening! Thanks to Pastor Walker Horne for inviting us to help!

And with ANY H2O event...there HAS to be Ice Cream in there somewhere!

God At Work...

2009-07-26T22:30:00.001-06:00

Now THIS is truly God at work! He's here and He's busy. And He's calling us to join him. I pray this moves you as much as it's moved me!

ReEnergized....

2009-07-25T21:25:00.005-06:00

I had really wondered why lately, I have been feeling really drained. You know, how you feel when every ounce of energy has been poured out of you? For some unknown reason, that's been me. I have been getting plenty of sleep...haven't missed any meals....and you know I haven't missed much coffee, LOL! Just drained lately. I've had plenty of time to study, and to work on getting ready for this Fall at H2O...loved having the opportunity to speak throughout our area on Sundays..yet, still drained.

Today, I found out why.

When God places a calling on your life, nothing else of any shape, form or fashion can fill that void. It's a 'have to', not just a 'need to', or 'want to'...but something that burns deep within you that can never be quenched.

I have that type of calling on me. I didn't ask for it, didn't pay for it, God chose me for this purpose. Many, many times guys in the ministry have callings placed on their lives, yet spend so much time and energy trying to figure out what it is. They're never satisfied...always looking for something 'else', something 'better'.

I know. For years I was one of those guys.

But today confirmed, again, exactly what my calling is. My purpose is to share the gospel and to impact as many lives possible with the Gospel to the Next Generation...our lovable college students. Gosh I love these kids!

Exactly three months ago, we had our last large group gathering on campus. Then we dismissed for the summer. Oh sure we've kept in touch via email, Facebook, texting and even Twitter. We've even begun having Online Streaming Bible Studies and Prayer Gatherings throughout the summer, which have been amazing...but it's not the same as coming together as a group...as a family.

This is Freshman Weekend on our campus. We've got nearly 200 students scattered throughout TU, getting a taste of dorm life and such. We've been blessed to be right in the thick of it all day. And I can tell you quickly, we've loved it. And missed it. This is what has been missing from my daily routine. Not having the daily encounters with my students has depleted me beyond words. And today proved that. I can feel myself literally being re-energized. My focus is clearer. My passion has returned. And that gnawing sensation within has been satisfied.

For now...

Freshmen move in, in 33 days...but whose counting!

Ahhhhhhh....

2009-07-22T22:15:00.002-06:00

Ahhhhh! What a relaxing night! Just kinda laid back, watching a couple of TV shows with the girls...surfin' the 'net....you know I got my coffee.....oh, and the rain! It's been a sloooowww steady rain all night, and should go on till morning! We've got our windows open, there's a light breeze, and the sound of that rain is so amazing! Haven't seen rain like this in a while. Our crops here are in real need of it. I'm so thankful that God has chosen to send it...even if I am a little selfish!

Monday Rewind...

2009-07-20T20:03:00.002-06:00

Today has kinda been a blur. Super busy today at the pharmacy...typical Monday. Just glad the day is over...that means tomorrow's my day off!

This weekend definitely gave me jet lag! LOL! Friday night I was able to serve at Founder's Community Church in Sandusky, OH at their LATE Night Outreach Project. Great Idea! Loved what they done. Their building is located just a couple of blocks away from Cedar Point, and to say the least, that area is jumpin' with people late at night! Pastor Ron opened up the church to FREE Chili Dogs, Chips & Sodas (and yes, there was coffee!) I love Chili Dogs...and coffee! We played an assortment of crazy videos, lots of loud music and offered friendship. It was amazing! At midnight, we turned it into a small worship set, followed by Pastor Ron sharing briefly his testimony, then opening everything up to a Q & A about anything Bible or spiritually related. Blown away! Got home sometime after 3AM! Good thing I'm a night owl! Thanks Pastor Ron for the invite! Let's do it again.

Saturday was fun as the girls and I headed back to Sandusky to crash all the shoe shops in town! Total fun...and many of the shops will never be the same! LOL

Yesterday was really great as we were able to hang out with the folks at Port Clinton Baptist Church. Pastor Gene was on vaca and invited me to fill in for him. Glad he did! I preached yesterday morning, then last night turned into more of a 'conversational type' of setting. It really reminded me of what we do at H2O. I loved it! What really blew me away, was the fact that we had NO MUSIC...literally! The entire service was the class! Now you really want to hear something crazy...as I wrapped up everthing (which was an hour later), I just opened everything up to their thoughts, questions and such. And another hour later we finished! God was truly up to something last night as the group of us really didn't want to go home, we wanted to investigate more. I loved it! Hope I get the opportunity to go back and do it again real soon.

Tonight brings lots of little things that I have to do...but not with out watching a couple of our favorite TV shows with the girls...I love chick shows! LOL! And I love bein' with my girls, so that makes everything worth it!

That's it for now...Cheesecake & Coffee is callin' my name! God Bless!

A Random Day....

2009-07-14T19:46:00.002-06:00

Today was such a good day...a good day off from the pharmacy! After an amazing nights sleep, I was off to the campus to spend the morning. After several meetings getting H2O shapped up, I was off to Sandusky for a Pastor's Fellowship & Cookout on Lake Erie! Burgers on the grill is hard to beat, even if it is with a bunch of other preachers! LOL! And to look out over the lake...WOW! Then I headed over to Founders Community Church to discuss last minute details about Friday nights 'late night' evangelism project. I'm preparing Easy Worship and leading worship for this event. It really is late night! It starts at 11:30pm. Good thing I'm a night owl!

After I got back home, Mrs. Denise and I are off to run a couple of errands. Glad to back home for the rest of the evening. Time on the front porch...crusin' the net for a while....now time for coffee and a good book.

Life is good....

Fourth Of July Snapshots...

2009-07-04T22:09:00.005-06:00

Our day started at the local Flea Market! This place is crazy! Today, about 5000 people were there. The cool thing is there are tons of concession stands all over the place! Mrs. Denise and I found this great Bar-B-Q tent...Oh Yeah!

Tabitha Loves Shaved Ice!

We're now in Hedges-Boyer Park in Tiffin, getting ready for the fireworks show. We got there around 6:00pm, just to hang out and enjoy the park. We also had to get there early so we could find a great place to see the fireworks. We did good...we were literally less than 50 yards from the launch site! Man, was it loud!

Most people in the park had been there most of the day. Tents, chairs, grills were the norm. Since we were late comers, we improvised...Pizza Delivery!

Tabitha...well, you know! LOL!!

Tab and Devin showing off their 'snow poles'! It was dark outside, and they still almost blinded us with their white legs! LOL!

Tab and Devin watching fireworks!

Assorted Fireworks Pics!

Great day...lots of fun!

I love the Fourth of July!

Multi-Site Worship Venues...

2009-06-30T19:17:00.004-06:00

I love change! I love the concept of rethinking the old and implementing the new...especially in the area of church! To brain-storm with other creative minds seeking ways to further God's Kingdom is one of my most favorite things to do. To those other church guys who are still lost in the 1940's, they see guys like me as a 'rebel'...a 'lone ranger'. I don't care!

I've looked at, studied, prayed through, attempted, failed at some, succecced at most, and seemingly bought into almost every innovative idea that has came about involving church growth.

Almost...every one.

And that one, was the concept of Multi-Site Worship.

It's just hard for me to wrap my brain around the concept of one pastor, multiple locations. Sounded good...looked good on paper....naw, just not for me.

Until now...

This past weekend I had the honor of speaking to a small group Bible Study concerning the move from high school to college. That small group, was part of Jersey Baptist Church, just outside of Columbus, OH. Jersey, offers a multi-site worship venue.

We decided to go down a little early on Sunday morning to participate in one of their worship venues. We chose 'Emerge'. Emerge is a high-electricity rock style praise & worship service, set in an auditorium whose ambiance would best be described as a cross between a concert and a club. It was extremely dark inside, except for the stage lights and the monster screen at back of the stage. The musicians were warming up, videos were playing on screen, and it was such a warm environment inside. Just outside the doors of Emerge was a small coffee kiosk (you knew I would find that!), with tons of people milling around waiting on the service to start.

At the exact same time, two other services were gearing up as well at different parts of the church campus. One, 'Gospel Celebration' is a worship celebration featuring old gospel hymns. The second, 'Jersey LIVE' is a worship venue where they experience a Spirit filled worship service that utilizes the Jersey Live Praise Leaders, Choir, Band and Orchestra. The music is a mix of soft contemporary and modern choruses.

Did I mention all three of these were going on at the EXACT same time? Crazy!

Then, as each of the respective worship times draws to a close, the Senior Pastor speaks to all venues, via streaming video.

Each one, having their own Venue Director/Pastor and Worship Leader, yet all belonging to the same church family, and all under the leadership of the Senior Pastor. I honestly could imagine all sorts of problems with this scenario. From the leadership structure all the way down to the exact timing of the speaking, to having all the bugs worked out and kept out of the streaming video. Yet, it worked...and it worked well!

I have to admit, as I set through the service at Emerge, I attempted to critique every little detail. Here, is my findings:

The worship band and worship leader were not professionals...yet they shown a true heart for God and leading His people in worship. And I'm talking rock style band...even the fog machine! They strived for excellence...they almost made it. I, not only enjoyed my worship time, but enjoyed the people around me worshipping also.

The venue itself, with the dark and mysterious ambiance, just drew me in immediately. It was like I had no other choice, I had to go to 'that one.'

I was totally caught off guard at the audience itself. I was expecting teenagers through the twenty-somethings to be the majority of the congregation. WOW, was I in for a shock! I would say the median age would have been somewhere between 38-42! 'Not quite' middle aged couples with their teenaged children. Dude, that was crazy!

I kept thinking as the pastor was speaking that I would look around and see many of the people, especially the younger ones, not paying attention, goofing around, you know the like. Again, polar opposite of my expectations. It was as if each one in the room was literally hanging on to every word the pastor said, anxiously awaiting what was coming next. And he was on video! Amazing!

There's a lot more great things going on at Jersey! I'm just thankful that I had an opportunity to hang out with some great students for the morning.

And I also thankful that I had an opportunity to experience something brand new in the area of church! And I liked it...so did my family...

I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks...

MayhemFest Prayer...

2009-06-29T21:03:00.004-06:00

I am begging for your commitment to prayer! On July 31st, there is going to be a mass concert held at the Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH that desperately needs our most urgent prayer. The Mayhem Festival is coming to the Blossom Center, and with it comes a list of the most Godless groups in history. Headlining the concert will be Marlyn Mason, along with a a plethora of others. I'm asking that you join us in prayer that God will intervene in this event, and will make His presence known in such a way that both the groups and the attenders can't help but realize that God is real and desires a personal relationship with them. I'm praying for mass revival to take place! Nothing...nothing is out of God's reach. If you live in the area, I'm asking you to commit to personally prayer walking around the area before July 31st. Here is the list of the groups scheduled for this event:

Marilyn Manson

Slayer

Killswitch

Engage

Bullet for my Valentine

Cannibal Corpse

Trivium

God Forbid

Job for a Cowboy

Behemoth

All that Remains

The Black Dahlia Murder

White Chapel

Mushroom Head

I believe that God is wanting to do a mighty work here, and He's asking us to join Him. If you're willing to join me in prayer for this, leave me a comment! And by all means, pass this blog along to your family and friends so they can join us as well!

"Father, I know it is Your Will to reach this group of people. I know that You love them beyond words...and that You desire a relationship with them. Father we are giving You this concert...do a MIGHTY work before, during, and after this event! May history be made with Your power on July 31st! We love You, and thank You...and we praise You for what You're going to do! In Jesus' Name we pray...AMEN!"

Prayer Requests

2009-06-29T20:58:00.002-06:00

I've just listed the prayer requests for our Online Streaming Family Prayer Time on Sunday night, June 27th, 2009. Please drop by, and partner with us in prayer. If you would, leave me a comment here that you are planning on partnering with us for these prayer needs. Here's your link: Prayer List

Pop Icons Dead...

2009-06-25T16:45:00.002-06:00

Wow! What a day this has turned out to be. This morning, THE icon of 70's pop culture ~ Farrah Faucett passes away. Seriously, who could ever imagine the blonde bombshell of Charlie's Angels dead!

But that wasn't all...

As I write this, it's just been announced that the self-proclaimed 'King of Pop' ! Michael Jackson, has also died! Are you kiddin' me! No one in their right mind woke up this morning thinking today would be the day 'the gloved one' would die.

Just livin' proof that our life is like a vapor....

Wonder what tomorrow will bring...

A Long Time Comin'...

2009-06-22T23:14:00.004-06:00

It truly has been a long time comin'! For months I've been literally screaming inside for just a few extra moments to truly devote to writing again. I've got so many things runnin' through my head that I really want to get on paper, but it seems like each time piece in the country has turned against me! Tonight, God gave me the special time needed to get some things outta my head an onto paper. So I want to invite you to take a small trip to a blog that's very special to me, that's my devotional blog: 'I Espresso'd Myself ~ Views of Life From A Coffee Junkie' And while you're there, grab a fresh cup of coffee and enjoy the latest chapter, 'It Should Be Natural...'

I await your comments...

My Father's Day...

2009-06-21T21:06:00.002-06:00

Today has been absolutely amazing...and so needed! A quality day spent with my girls is priceless. Here's a brief synopsis of my incredible day.

Got to 'kinda' sleep in.
Headed out to Columbus for a day of mayhem.
First stop, one of my favorite places ever, where I bought THIS for our H2O Praise Band. We're really gonna kick it up a notch this fall!
Then HERE for lunch.
Next was a mad dash to Old Navy...today was their last day of their 1/2 price men's sale. You should've seen Tabitha strippin' down a mannequin...that thing didn't stand a chance.
Then off to Polaris...nobody warned them Tabitha was coming!
Last stop in Columbus was HERE. The girls enjoyed Fraps while I scoured the place! Oh, I had one too after my adventure!
Now on the road back home and a final stop at the Big Dipper for Ice Cream Flurrys. Mine was a Cherry Cheesecake.
After we got home, we looked at Tab's amazing pics from her vacation at the lake. She's such a photo ham! LOL!!!

Fairly simple day...that's what I wanted.

Quality time with my girls...not only priceless, but irreplaceable!

I...am a blessed man.

Happy Father's Day to me!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-20T22:34:00.002-06:00

It's in the wee hours of Father's Day morning...and I must admit that emotions are wanting to run high. I simply adore the fact of being a Dad, and honestly, I've got the best kid on the planet! Well, actually, she's certainly not a kid anymore...she turned 20 this year! But if I say kid, will it make me any younger? Just a thought. Tabitha, it's a pure pleasure and honor to have been chosen to be your Dad!

I've been thinking a ton about my Dad this past week. He will soon be gone 9 years, yet it seems like yesterday that he and I talked on the phone. If you only knew how much I miss those phone calls. Today, Denise and I were rearranging some things in our office, and I run across a copy of my Grandfather's obituary. He's been gone 20 years this past May...again, it seems like yesterday that we were taking Tab over to his house so he could see her. Gee time flies!

I've got tons of things screaming in my head that I really want to put on paper, but my ADHD just want allow it tonight. It's been a rough few days around here lately trying to get my CDO (that's my OCD put in the correct order) and my ADHD to play fair. Neither of them evidently understand the rules. Hopefully in a day or two I can sit down and get these thoughts outta my head...it's all about my Dad...and it's all about my DAD. You'll see soon.

To all my friends, family and my readers, may you have an amazing Father's Day! May you enjoy each and every second with your families. I know I'm planning on it!

Happy Father's Day To You!

Happy Father's Day To Me!

Lazy Saturday...

2009-06-13T10:52:00.008-06:00

Today is proving to be such a needed day of nothingness! I worked for a couple of hours this morning at the pharmacy, but other than that....ahhhhhh! Mrs. Denise and I headed up to Norwalk, OH so she can attend a Pastor's Wives Luncheon, so I took advantage of the trip to check out this great little coffee shop in the downtown area. Here I sit inside Sherri's Coffee House...this great little, out-of-the-way, nook, that definitely has a Christian atmosphere. As I write this, I'm wishin' that this was located in Tiffin instead of Norwalk!

The Wi-Fi is super fast...the view is amazing (so far, I've watched over 150 motorcycles of all shapes, colors, and sizes go by...and that's just in the first 20 minutes!)...and the coffee is killer! So far, I've had a 4-shot espresso, and I chased it with a 16oz regular brew...I'm not done yet!

To put it simply...This reminds me of home...

I Have Lusted...

2009-06-07T17:28:00.003-06:00

It seems like everybody up here on the Northcoast has at least one motorcycle. They're EVERYWHERE! Seriously, there is way more cycles on the road than cars...it's amazing. For years, I've wanted to get a cycle, guess it's that mid-life crisis thing, LOL! This past weekend, has been Bike Week in Sandusky, OH...and I mean literally thousands of bikers have converged on this small coastal town. As we were out today, going to and from church, bikes dominated the roadways...I have to admit, I was awestruck!

But now, it's worse! As I've already said, I've wanted a bike for years, but just couldn't quite find a style, maybe a color....that just really 'jumped right out at me'. They're all gorgeous, but I just couldn't find the one that says 'Jim'. Until now....

This past week I believe I've found the one I've been waiting on! It's the new 2010 Honda Fury. Nope, it's not a Harley...it's a Honda...and it has my name all over it! Now, all I have to do....is to save my coffee money...probably gonna take a while! LOL!

Hope you enjoy it too!

Strange Coincedence?

2009-05-28T21:43:00.002-06:00

I find it overwhelmingly coincedental that the final word to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee is "Laodicean". Seriously, think about it. The one word that millions of ears are anxiously awaiting to be spelled correctly, means 'lukewarm or indifferent'. Coincedental? I think not. Look at Revelation 3:14-22. A familiar passage of Scripture, that typically defines the majority of churches across this land. 'Lukewarm' is not a word that I want to describe me. Look at what Christ says He feels about being 'lukewarm'. It makes Him sick at His stomac h when He thinks about you and me being this, 'lukewarm'. So much so that Scriptures tells us that He wants to "vomit you out of My mouth."

Think God is trying to tell us something? I do! I mean, just think...God used the National Spelling Bee to share with us His thoughts about today's church.

Makes me sick too...

2009-05-25T10:35:00.001-06:00

New posts coming soon: 'The AR Trip', 'NBC Church Experience', 'Hangin' Out With Dave' & more...stay tuned!

2009-05-22T21:05:00.002-06:00

Woooo! Ready for a looong weekend! This has been crazy in the jungle. Looking for several days of just chillin'. The weather here on the coast is gonna be just about right! I sense a serious case of lazy comin' on! LOL!

2009-05-20T20:43:00.002-06:00

Spent the night jammin' with the American Idol finale...loved it! For my 'color commentary' GO HERE!

Sunday Summary

2009-05-17T22:53:00.002-06:00

Today was an amazing day! Great services at First Baptist-Clyde! Thanks Dan Duffy for the opportunity to speak. This afternoon was really lazy, enjoyed lots of family time, just kickin' back, watching movies and hanging out! Tonight, was awesome! H2O launched their LIVE On-Line Prayer Service! Totally Cool! Will have more info soon.

That's about it, time to call it a day...be blessed!

2009-05-16T17:55:00.002-06:00

Today's been a super day! Spent the morning at Freshman Orientation over on the campus, had a great time, met some really cool students that's gonna be with us next semester. Grabbed some lunch at the cafeteria, then headed out into the rain to Wal-Mart! There was one bright spot in the trip...got to stop at Staples! LOL!

2009-05-12T22:46:00.002-06:00

Today was filled with a 'must needed' mowing of our yard! Tried to mow it last Tuesday, but the mower wouldn't cooperate! So after spending a week in the shop, I FINALLY got to get it back this morning. And now a second too soon! Grass was over 8" tall...and the Dandelion King had taken up residence! But thank God, that massive task is behind us now.

Spent the rest of the day with the girls, doing little things around the house. My 'to-do' list keeps getting bigger...I just need more hours in the day.

Momma's Day Around Our House...

2009-05-10T14:34:00.002-06:00

Wow...what a Momma's Day at the Whaley house! We took the Sunday off, just to have some quality family time! After we got up this morning, we got dressed and headed to Red Lobster in Findlay! Oh my was that fun! We got right in, cause we were there when they opened the door...note to self, always go early! Hahahaha!

The we attacked the Findlay Mall shoppin' for Momma! Now that was a hoot! Going in different directions looking for all kinds of 'stuff' and leading the pack was my shoe-crazed daughter!

Geez I love my girls...nothing better than quality family time...and today, I'm in the zone...

Texting...Nuisance or Ministry Tool...

2009-05-05T22:31:00.000-06:00

Texting is a phenomenon that has swept our world. The concept of an 'instant email' in 160 characters or less delivered right to our cell phones has revolutionized our communication thought process. Nowadays, if you don't text, you're just not cool! And if you don't have 'unlimited' text, you're REALLY not cool! I suspect that in the extreme near future, the career to have would be that of an orthopedic doctor that specializes in thumbs!

I'm still relatively new to texting...less than one year to be exact! But I have to admit, it certainly didn't take long to become addicted! If fact, my whole family have become text addicts! Together, the girls and I text somewhere in the neighborhood of 7K texts a month! Told you we were addicts!

Now, having said all of that, and knowing America's addiction with this crazy past-time, why is it you think, that when we enter our churches we are told immediately to put our phones away, or at the very least to put them on silent. Do you like me, have those 'sudden urges' to whip out that phone and make a quick text, then quickly put it away so as not to get caught? Or, have it at-the-ready for that reply?

With churches and ministries all across our country, discouraging the use of texting in our services, we at H2O have taken just the polar opposite approach! Each week as our students gather for worship, we're encouraging them to make sure their phones are charged and ready to go!

But we do it, for a purpose.

And it works...

At H2O, our focus has always been, 'how can we impact our campus the most?' And I've always believed that texting had to be included in the mix. So for Phase 1 of our plan, here is what we've chosen to do:

Each Thursday night as our students gather for our weekly large group worship, videos and such are playing on our big screen, while our students use this time for quick bits of socializing. But as the time draws near to get things officially 'kicked off', everyone heads for their seats and pulls out their phones. Now the fun begins!

At the '3 minute warning' (sometimes we use a 5 minute warning) we use a countdown video that leads us into our service. During that specific 3 minute time span (or 5 minute, whatever the case may be), I instruct the students to text their friends certain types of messages. For example, during the last week of classes, I asked them to text their friends something encouraging...'finish the semester strong'...'I'm prayin' for your finals'...'Good luck'....etc. What ever is said, it HAS to be very 'uplifting & encouraging'. And you cannot text anyone who is also at the worship gathering...it must be to students that are not in attendance. If someone doesn't have texting (and that's rare!), they are encouraged to make phone calls instead.

At first I must admit, this was way out-of-the-box...risky...but at the same time, if it worked, it would be extremely innovative. The first night we did this, my students had an extra gleam in their eye...they loved this concept! The results were unbelievable!

To give you some indication as to the impact this makes, our last night of the semester, we were extremely down in attendance. Last minute projects & papers kept many of our students busy. But for those who were there, we had 21 students that use text. And during the 5 minute countdown, those 21 students texted 327 people and encouraged them in some way about doing great on their final exams! That's amazing! Now what else is cool about this, is the fact that 80 of those 327 people who received those texts, responded back to our H2O students! That's 25%! Those 25% said things like: 'thanks, you don't know how much I needed that!'...'thanks for thinking of me'...'wow, such great timing'...'thanks for the prayers, I need 'em'!

Sure, we help encourage our students with different incentives to do this, but my oh my, the results are crazy! One young lady texted 37 people during that 5 minute block! Another 3 students had over 30 each!

Texting...the time has come for change. How will you use today's technology and blend it in with today's culture? For us, we're gonna continue to impact our campus, one text at a time!

The Indy Trip...Finally

2009-05-05T20:46:00.012-06:00

Sleeping was difficult in Indy. The bed was uncomfortable, had hundreds of things running through my head and my ADHD was screaming. So when I finally got up, I was in desperate need of coffee...by the bucketfuls...I would've even considered an IV drip! LOL!

Ron Cooper and I drug our way to the restaurant that was in the hotel, and by this time, my whole world was screaming! I NEEDED COFFEE! I'm sitting there expecting a massive cup to make it's way to me, but instead, this was brought out to me:

This was nothing more than a thimble to me! LOL! Yep, I asked for a bigger cup! Here's what I got!

And TWENTY MINUTES LATER, they put coffee in it!

Back up in the room, to finish getting ready for our first session, I took a peek outside...look what we got over-night!

I usually love conferences. Although I have to be very selective which ones I attend due to scheduleing, costs, travel, etc. So when I go, I'm looking forward to a great time, meeting & networking with new friends, and getting some quality 'refresh & reload'. But when the rooms aren't big enough to hold all the attendees for a particular session, it kinda defeats the purpose. This pic is a classic shot of breakout sessions that went on all throughout the conference. Only a few of the sessions had ample room.

Time for another coffee break...this time, I had to drink from an expensive thimble!

As I set in the restaurant, tryin' to chill for a while, I was blessed to have a 'in the back corner' table (by my request) so I could enjoy the snow falling outside, and use that time for a brief moment in the Word.

This trip home will always be rememberable. Here I am, riding in a 15 passenger van with 6 other preacher-guys, trying to make our way from Indianapolis back up to Tiffin. We were only a few miles out of Indy on I-70 when we were detoured up through the wonderful state of Indiana. None of us had traveled that section of road before. The wind chill was below -0, and the snow was coming down. Here we were, cruisin' down the highway, when BOOM! Take my word for it...a blowout in that kind of weather is not a pretty picture! Triple A was a 2 hour wait, and we were literally in the middle of nowhere Indiana. But God sent an angel. He was in the form of an Indiana State Police Officer. He helped our guys take care of business, and we were back on the road again!

After all the excitement on the road, we were looking for a place for food! Such a shame that the only place to eat in rural Indiana was a Bob Evans! The food left something to be desired, but the company was killer! See that bald guy, in the red hoodie with that smirky smile on his face...that dude's quickly becoming one of my closest friends! Say hello to Dan Duffy, my Associational Missionary for the Northcoast Baptist Association. Thank God he's not a normal A.M.!

For the last photo from the trip, I have to include this one. I'm sitting in Bob Evans, and beside our table was the rail wall. It looked as if they hadn't dusted in weeks! You know me, I had to leave my mark...if you look closely, you can see my name written in the dust! LOL!

We made it home in time to get me to H2O. Overall, the trip was great...conference was really good...and the memories will last a lifetime!

2009-05-04T23:03:00.002-06:00

For a Monday, this one hasn't been too bad! Had a chance to work out in the yard this evening after work. Definitely looks like I gotta mow the yard tomorrow, before the rain hits on Wednesday. Just kinda chilled the rest of the evening, hangin' out the Mrs. Denise & Tab. I did, however, start my 'to-do' list! I've go so much little stuff to get done in the next few days it crazy. Hopefully, my ADHD won't my TOO active! LOL!

2009-05-03T19:45:00.001-06:00

Had an amazing day with my girls,really didn't realize just how much I needed quality family time! Been good to be off today..I truly needed the break!

2009-05-02T09:53:00.001-06:00

Many times worship leaders spend way too much time between songs doing mini-sermons. If you ae called to lead worship, then do it...lead, worship!

2009-05-02T08:11:00.001-06:00

Last day at the National Collegiate Summit, enjoying my breakout, 'Big Ideas'. A 9 hour roadtrip home awaits...and its raining...a lot...by the buckets!

2009-05-01T08:18:00.001-06:00

Please join me in prayer that God will provide a way for me to permanetely vacate the jungle! Matthew 9:37-38 is screaming at me this morning!

2009-05-01T05:20:00.001-06:00

Day 1 of the NCS is in the books...David Platt was off the chain, wow did I ever need that! Day 2 should be filled with great surprises!

2009-04-30T15:33:00.001-06:00

Arrived in Nashville for the National Collegiate Summit. Great trip with 2 guys whose 2 favorite drinks are coffee & Mt Dew!

2009-04-28T08:55:00.001-06:00

I'm excited about the possibility of designing/leading an area wide 'D-Now'! What would be some of your ideas? Get creative...let me know!

2009-04-27T16:18:00.001-06:00

It amazes me how northerners think that 80 degrees is hot and 85 is unbearable! One summer in the delta would cook their crawfish...just sayin!

2009-04-26T20:22:00.001-06:00

Great evening at H2O...then got to enjoy Uncle Mike's Ice Cream! It's so nice to enjoy springtime in Ohio! Finals week @ TU...pray with us!

Text Ministry....

2009-04-04T19:29:00.002-06:00

This past Thursday, we tried something brand new at H2O. And it worked! Just before our Worship Gatherings 'officially' start, we have a 3 minute countdown that plays on our screen. Normally, we take those 3 minutes to get to know someone in attendance that we 'normally' don't hang out with. That, in and of itself is amazing...it truly creates community! However, this past week, I really felt like we needed to do something really creative!

Here's what we did....

In those 3 minutes, I asked all of our students who have texting on their phones, (duh, that's an overwhelming majority!) to text their friends or family members and encourage them in some way. Whether it's a 'hope ur havin a good day' or 'i'm prayin for u' or 'just thinkin about u' to literally whatever they could come up with to encourage others. The only clause to this project, was that you couldn't text anyone who was in attendance at H2O. Sounds simple...

In three minutes, we successfully encouraged 83 people, simply by text.

Yep, we're gonna do it again.....

Missions Trip 'continued'...

2009-03-16T21:21:00.004-06:00

As we continue on our journey on the Gulf Coast, my first stop on Sunday morning was at Olive Baptist Church. Bro. Roland McMillan and his congregation were incredible hosts. A special thanks goes out to them. I'm certainly looking forward to the possibilities of partnering with this church doing mission work, here on the Northcoast...

Bro. Roland treated for lunch at the amazing Movie Star Restaurant. OMG! Southern Bar-B-Que, Turnip Greens, and all the fixin's! And to top it all off...true southern born 'Nana Puddin'! As you can see by the line, it was worth the wait. And what a fabulous atmosphere!

This was our table...we did some serious damage to the buffet table! You can tell I was in the south...just look at all the glasses of sweet tea!

The afternoon was spent at Bro. Carl Myers home in Poplarville, MS. I'm out back of his house on his back deck...remenants of Hurricane Katrina still exists. This whole area has just been recently cleared from the debris.

From The North Coast To The Gulf Coast...

2009-03-14T21:16:00.005-06:00

I am a blessed man....

For a displaced southern boy, who is now serving in the frozen tundra on the northcoast of Ohio, to get the opportunity to go back to the promised land of the south, I'm going to jump at the chance. I have recently returned from an incredible trip to the Pearl River Baptist Association in southern Mississippi. There, I was priviledged to serve as their In-Resident Missionary during their On Mission Conference.

I flew in from Cleveland to the Louis B. Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans, Louisiana on Saturday, February 28th, and returned home on Thursday, March 5th. I have an incredible time....made new friends....and found many who are passionate about missions. In addition, I was able to indulge myself with, 'much more than I needed', amazing southern cooking!

To Bro. Carl Myers, Associational Missions Director, I thank you from the bottom of my heart...you will always have a friend in the north!

I'll be posting many pictures from my trip over the next few days...enjoy...go ahead and be jealous! LOL!!......and comment.....

This was waiting in the Cleveland Airport. Storms in the Atlanta area had all flights really messed up. My flight was over an hour late, waiting for the storms to clear.

This is Cleveland from about 15,ooo feet.

This is the Cleveland area from about 30,000 feet.

Atlanta must have known I was coming! Look what welcomed me as I got to the top of the escalator going to my departure gate! I love Seattle's Best Coffee!

This was my view from the Coffee Stand! Thanks to the storms, I missed my connecting flight from Atlanta to New Orleans. I was blessed to be able to spend an additional 3 hours in the airport.! Yay me!

More pics coming this week...stay tuned....

Happy Birthday To Tabitha!

2009-02-07T14:43:00.004-06:00

Today, another milestone has occurred. It seems like only yesterday that we brought that wonderful bundle of joy back to our home. What once was two, had just become three. Today, that incredible baby turns twenty years old! It certainly doesn't seem like twenty years have past since that day back in Jonesboro, AR. But it has been an amazing ride watching her grow and mature into this unbelievable young lady. I'm continually amazed at how God has guided her each and every day of the past 20 years. A blessing beyond words...she's our baby...Happy Birthday Tabitha! May you always experience the joy and love in your life, just as you have brought joy and love to ours!

We love you always...

Mom & Dad

The Blizzard of January 2009...

2009-01-28T17:10:00.009-06:00

We really thought it might miss us. We were wrong! At 10:00pm last night, I got out and cleared off our driveway of the 3" of snow that had fallen since 6:00 that evening. I had everything cleared out, both vehicles were cleared and ready to go for this morning.

Little did we know untill 7:30am this morning that an additional 11" of snow had fallen overnight! Add the wind factor, and we had 4' - 5' drifts all around our house and beside all vehicles. We literally couldn't get out of our driveway. Then...we added another 2" - 3" during the day.

Luckily, Tabitha didn't have anything going on, on the campus, so she was safe and warm inside the house...I called in at work, since getting out of the driveway wasn't happening.

It took over 3 hours just to shovel off this ridiculously long driveway! Then to work around one of the vehicles. I think I uncovered the North Pole while I was shoveling...that had to be Reindeer tracks I saw....

Enjoy the pictures...

Sandy absolutely loves the snow! She loves to hop around in the drifts!

H2O Promo Video

2009-01-28T16:08:00.001-06:00

The Indy Road Trip...

2009-01-18T18:27:00.033-06:00

This past week presented a wonderful opportunity for me. I was invited to attend the North Central States Rally that was held in Indianapolis, IN. This is a huge 'by invitation only' conference that is for the leaders in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. I was honored to be invited. I was able to make several new friends and meet new colleagues that are 'out here in the trenches' everyday like me. I was blessed by being able to listen to two of my favorite authors and speakers, Thom Rainer and Ed Stetzer. 'Engaged' was the theme...and 'engaged' I was...

But, I have to admit, that some of the best moments were not at the conference, but, were on 'the road trip.' I road to Indy with six of my fellow pastors/colleagues from the Northcoast Baptist Association. I was next to the youngest on the trip...let the adventure begin...

I could not begin this photo blog without starting off with 'the red hat'. The oldest pastor that was on the trip was Bro. Guy Morton. Without question, a gentleman to the core. It's been said that if you look up the word 'gentleman' in the dictionary, you would find Bro. Guy's photo beside it. He certainly could be my adopted grandfather. A wise, understanding man with a true heart for God. Bro. Guy rode 'shotgun' in our 15 passenger van. Totally distinguished in his black suit, black wool overcoat, and every one of the flowing white hairs that was on his head was very gently put in place. But sitting on top of this mountain of cotton...was this crazy red felt hat. It was three sizes too small...VERY RED...yet, Bro. Guy worked it. No pomp...no circumstances...just Guy...with the red hat. We knew that we would never be lost in the snow as long as Bro. Guy had his hat. On a sad note, Bro. Guy left his hat at the conference...sounds like a special offering waiting to happen...

You can't have any type of a Baptist gathering without food...and lots of it...

This was lunch Tuesday at Applebys...

My first visit to Indiana...on I-70

Driving through Indianapolis on a snowy Tuesday...

We've arrived at the Adam's Mark Hotel...but why, please tell my why were they not prepared to register the nearly 800 of us that were coming in this afternoon...

It must go without saying, that I thought the accommodations at the hotel were unbelievably atrocious. Either it didn't work...you couldn't, or wouldn't, pay for it...the service was horrible...whatever, just simply bad...

Of the 800 guests that attended this conference, 799 of us had laptops. Good news: the hotel had internet. Bad news: it cost $9.95 a day. NO WIRELESS! Oh, except in the HOTEL LOBBY! And then, it crashed on Tuesday night when the word got out about the wireless in the lobby when 563 Baptists attempted to hook up to wireless. The hotels answer to this problem...use the computers in the 'Business Center' in the hotel. Good thought, however their 'Business Center' only had 2 computers and one of them was broke! Yep, Business Center...

They provided bottles of water for their guests in the rooms...at $4 a bottle!

There was a bright spot...Texas Roadhouse for supper! They were NOT prepared for 7 seriously hungry preachers...

And this was just the first day...

New Year's Purpose Statement...

2009-01-01T11:45:00.030-06:00

As with each New Year, 2009 will bring with it, new goals, new visions and new dreams. As I have been preparing for 2009 in our ministry, I'm continually amazed at the opportunities God is providing for us to be as creative as we possible can, in order to further His Kingdom. It's such an awesome experience to be in a place where I'm limited, only, by my creativity and my imagination! Sometimes that's good...and sometimes that's no so good.

I've recently read a statement that God has used to speak volumns to me. And I've chosen to adopt it as my own kind of purpose statement, if you will, for when things are 'not so good'. When you read it, you'll understand why.

"I am as strong as the coffee I drink, the friends I can count on,

and the prayers I say."

Plain...simple...yet very me.

Here's why...

The coffee I drink packs a powerful punch! It's an Italian Espresso Roast, made from the finest of Arabica Coffee Beans. My consistent AND my favorite drink is a 6 or 8 shot espresso with a shot of White Chocolate. And yes I'm serious.

My friends, they're quite an eclectic bunch! Each one unique in his or her own way, yet so very important to me. They love me...support me...believe in me...and pray for me all on a daily basis.

My closest and best friend is my wife, Denise. It's often been said that, behind every great man is a great woman. With Denise, that would have to be changed to 'behind this simplistic dork, is the most incredible woman on the planet!' She is the most supportive person I have ever seen. Always at my side...encouraging me...believing in me...praying for me. Outside of my relationship with Jesus Christ, Denise is my everything. Period.

Then would come my incredible daughter, Tabitha. I've never known any two individuals to be so close alike as she and I. It is as if we are literally created from the same mold! I have enjoyed every waking second watching her mature into the awesome young lady she's become. Any ideas I have get bounced off of her first. After all, when your ministry target is collegiate students, why not ask one of your closest friends...who happens to be a collegiate student? She's brutally honest...but then again, she's brutally honest.

Outside of my immediate family, my closest friend circle comes from all over the United States. First stop, Benton, AR...a suburb of Little Rock. Shane Knight is the Senior Pastor of Salem Baptist Church. I've known this young man for many years. Author of "If The Truth Be Told", Shane is way mature beyond his years. One of the most aggressive and forward thinking individuals of his generation, Shane understands the complexities of 21st Century ministry, without EVER compromising the life-changing message of God's Word. My day is just not complete without a visit to Shane's World.

Louisville, Kentucky's suburb of Shepherdsville is home to T.J. Scott. T.J. is the Worship Elder at Trinity Life Center in Shepherdsville. He is the most quirkiest and self-proclaimed geekiest person I know...and I love that about him. His 'if-you-can-dream-it-up-I-can-make-it-happen' mentality is crazy! If it has ANYTHING to do electronically, T.J. is light-years ahead of the game. I'm consistently awed by T.J.'s hunger for the presence of God. Always looking at new and creative ways to lead his congregation in worship, he is like a lightning rod, seeking out...drawing in the Holy Spirit. T.J. is also the only person I know who can text me, while being on stage during a live-online church service...dude, that was funny!

The Grateful Dean hails from the mother-land of Louisiana. Just as spicy as the food Louisiana is known for, Dean always brings to the table such a unique perspective that's always ministry based...and heart driven. Dean Cirelli and his wife Crissie are house parents at the Louisiana Baptist Children's Home in Monroe, LA. A life-long youth guru, this position lets him be the 'dad' that so many children are missing, and to minister to their spiritual needs at the same time. Dean has always believed in me, when many, many others walked away. I can always count on Dean for a listenin' ear...and prayerful spirit.

Our relocation to Ohio has brought two more incredible men into my life. The first, is Dan Duffy, the Associational Missionary for the Northcoast Baptist Association. From the first time I spoke with him on the phone, months before our first visit to the coast, Dan has believed in me and has supported my vision for ministry. The second, my new hero, Ron Woods. Ron is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Sheffield Lake, Ohio. Ron has been a lifer in youth ministry, until now...he knows my heart...he sees my vision...he feels my passion...and he is an incredible confidant.

This list would not be complete without Jimmy Hull. Jimmy and his family are our friends that are 'way out in West Texas!' Jimmy was my Senior Pastor many years ago who saw the relentless beast inside of me that couldn't be contained in traditional ministry. He was the first to give me the unconditional freedom (which at times cost him dearly) to lead worship and reach students using out-of-the-box methods. And it worked.

My prayer life is a quiet topic...I rarely discuss it. But I can say this...it happens often, it happens intently...and it's focused. James 5:16 says it best...'The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.' That, I believe.

So as we enter the New Year, what is God calling you to do...how is He calling you to stand apart...where is He calling you to go...who is He calling you to be?

"I am as strong as the coffee I drink, the friends I can count on,

and the prayers I say"

What about you...

Sunday Morning Coming Down....

2008-12-28T10:07:00.009-06:00

It's a quiet morning, here at the Whaley house. I've been up for quite a while now, both the girls are still sleeping. Even Sandy is still curled up on her blanket! I've taken this time to catch up on reading blogs, the news...do some net surfin'...and just 'enjoy the moment'. I got to talk to my best buddy Shane, down in the Promise Land of Arkansas this morning on Facebook chat, prior to his morning worship service. He's vision casting this morning for 2009...I've been prayin' for him.

Found a great new interactive site for church leaders...missional thinkers...church planters...collegiate pastors...etc, that you really should check out. It called The Urban Loft. By all means, drop by...and join up if you're interested.

Started reading a new book last night that I got for Christmas. The title is "Pop Goes The Church" by Tim Stevens. I literally couldn't put it down! It's a fresh new look at how today's church is/isn't using today's pop culture in growing the Kingdom. I would strongly recommend it! But be careful...it's brash...in-your-face...and possibly controversial. But highly powerful! Definitely will be on my Top Shelf!

As I sit here, the wind outside is howling like mad! We're back to our 40+mph wind zone! Yesterday was a record setting day for high temperatures. We were in the 70's yesterday...and today, will only get to the high 40's. Sounds like another cold could make it's way around thanks to the drastic changes in the weather.

Today, hopefully, will be a cruise day for me. After working till 1pm yesterday at the pharmacy, the girls and I spent the rest of the day in full-blown cleaning mode (more about that later!). We did get to watch a couple of really good Christmas-themed movies last night, I think on the Hallmark channel. But today...yep, it's gonna be quiet! I'm planning on doing a few 'smaller' things on my H2O to-do list before next semester begins. It's amazing how little things can always grow into big things! LOL!

Hope you have a great Sunday as well...time for me to crank up itunes...think I'll head for the coffee pot first...

Christmas Eve Thoughts...

2008-12-24T23:41:00.011-06:00

Here it is, already after mid-night on Christmas Eve, yet somehow, I still can't go to bed. Something about the magic in the air that surrounds this single day of the year. Even though our home is decorated in festive fashion, and our Christmas tree is magnificent, my mind slips back to that cold night in Bethlehem where a young couple couldn't even find a empty hotel room. The winds here tonight have been howling like mad all evening, and I can only imagine what the winds must have been like that chosen evening. It's been hard just to walk upright in these winds, and driving has been next to impossible. Wonder what it was like for those two...soon to be three...as they journeyed just to get in out of the weather? And seriously, a cave wasn't too great of a place to stay. I doubt seriously if either of us would spend the night in a cave, surrounded by animals, if we couldn't get a room at the Holiday Inn Express! But then again, that's my Jesus.

Tonight has been filled with thoughts of Christmas around our house. Tabitha enjoyed a Christmas Eve Service with Devin at his church in Melmore...Denise and I enjoyed the Christmas Eve Service online from Trinity Life Center in Shepherdsville, KY. Our good friends T.J. & Melissa Scott serve on staff there. Afterwards, our family loves to watch Christmas movies...so to say the least, we've had plenty to choose from this past week! And for me...I've done my traditional Christmas wrapping! My father always had a tradition of 'having' to be in the hustle & bustle of Christmas Eve Shopping. And I have since carried on that tradition. For some unknown, crazy reason, I 'have' to be out in the midst of the mayhem on Christmas Eve. That's the true day of the year, when you are able to 'truly' see what a person is really all about, and what they stand for. I get a year's supply of sermon illustrations on this day alone, and today was no exception! LOL!

The Christmas Tree lights are still on, lighting up the dining room. It stands there almost as a protector of all the presents that are underneath. Tomorrow morning, the quietness of the room will give way to mass chaos as we dive in head first into the presents...and paper, bows and ribbons become projectiles! Man, I can't wait! Definitely got to have my coffee before I start that!

The girls have long gone to bed...they're the smart ones...they know Santa's on his way...and I've been enjoying the warmth and crackling of the fireplace. A good cup of coffee and that fireplace is a hard combination to beat! And I've been extra blessed by being about to chat with many of my students from H2O, and friends back home on Facebook. Geez, I love my students! The Christmas break sometimes seems forever, especially when you're used to being around each other soooo much! I pray that each of them have an incredible time with their families...and enjoy this time off...the Spring Semester looms in the distance.

I guess I need to finish up my coffee, and head to bed...NexRad says that Santa is somewhere over Canada...and that's real close. I better stoke up the fire real good...definitely want to give him a 'warm' welcome!

If you're traveling, please be safe...enjoy every moment of family time, even those in-laws and out-laws that always seem to get under your skin...eat lots of goodies! I've already got my GPS programmed to the goodie table! But more importantly, may you see the Christ in CHRISTmas.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

You Better Watch Out...

2008-12-23T22:40:00.001-06:00

Partners...

2008-12-21T14:27:00.006-06:00

For those of you who are new to 'the Grind', I'd like to share with you about our ministry. My family and I are missionaries on the Northcoast of Ohio. I'm the Collegiate Pastor at Tiffin University, and Pastor for The River Church in Tiffin, Ohio. Since we are MSC (Mission Service Corp) Missionaries, we are responsible for raising our own financial support. We are very thankful to have three churches that support us: Grace Baptist Church in Tiffin, Ohio; First Baptist Church in Sheffield Lake, Ohio; and First Baptist Church in Woodville, Ohio. However, we are in need of additional financial support. I would humbly ask that you...your family...your church, give serious prayer about becoming a regular financial partner. Maybe you also know someone who is looking for a ministry to make a year-end contribution to. If so, please share our ministry with them. All donations/contributions are tax deductible for your convience.

On my side bar, I keep this small article at the very top of the bar.

If you would like to financially support our family and our Campus Ministry, CLICK HERE to make your donations online. Your support will allow us to dedicate our time to vocational ministry and to echo the statement made by the Old Testament prophet Nehemiah, “I am doing a great work and cannot come down.” (Neh. 6:3) God Bless you as you pray and seek His will. Thank you for your support and friendship for our work.

If God so leads you, please follow the link above to make all your contributions. Here, you can also set up an account to make monthly contributions. Thank you so much for considering our ministry.

The Whaley's
Jim, Denise & Tabitha

CCCCCold.....

2008-12-21T14:18:00.002-06:00

Wow! I seriously can't remember ever being in a place that was this cold! The temperature is 7 degrees...that's our high for the day. But here's the ugly part...we have a -15 degree wind chill! The winds here are over 40mph! I'm also watching small bullets made of ice fly through the air at ridiculous speeds! We've had a major ice storm this past week, so all of our trees...and everything else...is ice-coated. But the winds here today are so strong that when the winds blow the trees, they break the ice off the trees and then the ice becomes miniture missiles! It's dangerous just trying to get from the house to the van...crazy!

Good thing I made a killer batch of chili last night...won't see me outside...

YES!!!

2008-12-17T22:17:00.003-06:00

I only hoped it would happen...and now it's reality...Bring on May 1st, 2009...

Twitter Me...

2008-12-12T00:00:00.004-06:00

For those of you who are 'twitter-fanatics', I now have joined your club! If you would like to follow me a little closer throughout the day, click on the Twitter Button below.

Forgotten Faith...

2008-12-09T00:13:00.001-06:00

Well, I DID have faith in my president...Check This Out!

Is it me, or are we really seeing a rash of stupidity...

Quick Update From The 'Coast...

2008-11-22T00:05:00.002-06:00

Sorry to be so brief, but here's a quick rundown from the 'coast from this past week!

Right now, it's 22 degrees with a wind chill of 11! Yep, I said 11! It's STUPID cold! Thank God for warm fireplaces an electric heaters! We've got about 1 1/2 inches of snow on the ground now. Last night, we were on the campus, when this crazy blizzard smacked us good! Thankfully, it only lasted most of the night. It's snowed off and on all day!

Pretty calm at work, though the people we see are always sick...so goes the life at a pharmacy!

We're getting ready for Thanksgiving Break...a MUCH needed few days off! Denise and I bought our turkey last week!

H2O sent 10 boxes to Operation Christmas Child this past week! I'm super proud of our students! Got lots of more incredible info coming from the campus, but it'll be in about another week...stay tuned!

Tab's new vocal group, Wildfire, performed last night on campus at a benefit concert...man were they good. They perform at the TU Christmas Concert around the first of December, can't wait for that. I'll soon be posting specifically about Wildfire, hopefully over the Thanksgiving holidays...including pictures...you REALLY want to see those!

Mrs. Denise and I are still trying to get over this crazy flu/cold/whatever-this-is! It has dragged on for weeks. I had to even go the the doctor last week...yuck!

Ok, I think that's it in a nutshell...have a great weekend...if you're in the north...STAY WARM!

Fools...

2008-11-12T14:30:00.002-06:00

Seriously, are you kiddin'?

Washington D.C.'s New Atheist's Christmas Campaign

Psa 14:1 'For the choir director, David. The fool says in his heart, "God does not exist." They are corrupt; their actions are revolting. There is no one who does good.'

Don't be fooled...

Defining Moments...

2008-11-11T14:13:00.002-06:00

January 20th, 2009 is going to be a defining moment in America. Barack Obama is already having his transition team investigate the Executive Orders by the current administration. He plans on making drastic changes immediately through these actions. One of the items on the table is the Freedom Of Choice Act.

We SERIOUSLY cannot allow Obama to make this kind of immediate decision:

http://www.fightfoca.com/

Tuesday Morning Saga...

2008-11-11T10:43:00.003-06:00

It's Tuesday morning, and we've been awakened by the annoying sound of a very LARGE truck in 'back-up' mode. Little did I know that the very LARGE truck was backing in to my driveway! My only day off, it's 35 degrees and now Lowe's is unloading a truckload of new windows in my yard! Are you jokin?! LOL!

Now 20 minutes have past and the contractors are here, ready to put the new windows in. Did I mention it's 35 degrees!

So it's now an hour into the process of taking out and putting in the FIRST window, when our contractors realized that they were missing 'something'. I'm not sure what 'something' is, but one of them is now on his way to our new Lowe's...15 minutes away...to get 'something'!

What an interesting day...oh and did I mention it's 35 degrees withOUT a window in my living room...