The B-Side Mix

Bsidemix.com

2008-05-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

And the time has finally come to say goodbye to blogger.com. It has been a good ride, but I am moving on up to better and greater things.

If you are a regular on my blog, you can now catch me at my new site:

www.bsidemix.com

from now on, that will be the only site I am blogging on.

A Tough One

2008-05-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a tough day for me. I know that with leadership comes failures, and Sunday I felt like I was let down by a friend and in turn, I let down my community. On the personal side, I can apologize for allowing my leadership to distract our community from what was otherwise a great Sunday. On the professional side, I learned a lot and will never let that sort of thing happen again.

It still stings... although with each storm comes new rain, and new soil is uncovered. I am praying that this new soil is rich with nutrients and commitment to the building of Missiongathering.

A Good Day

2008-05-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

I had a good day today. I got to sleep in and then get up, get ready and head to pick up my new glasses that I ordered so I can see again! Then I went and picked up Laura, and headed to the new Chipoltle in Mission Valley for lunch. That place is huge! Then we headed downtown to Urban Outfitters and picked up some new digs for us both. Ladies and Gentlemen... on my OWN ACCORD... I will be officially wearing color. I know its hard to believe, but the black t-shirt will not be my only means of fashion statement from now on.

Then off to the grandparents house and some amazing mexican food (spinach and mushroom, corn enchiladas). Then I got to watch the first two quarters of the Hornets / Spurs game. I came home, ran a few miles... spent twenty minutes catching my breath and now I am going to watch some Nacho Libre to go to bed. Overall... a good day.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

2008-05-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

So Curtis and I went to some Thai food at Bangkok Spices (good digs if you like Thai) and headed to the AMC with full intent of seeing Iron Man... but there was an incredible line to get in, so we decided to switch our plans up. Instead, we saw "Forgetting Sarah Marshall." I have to say, I had no clue really what this movie was going to be all about, but I ended up enjoying myself. Funny movie... just dont bring the kids. Mature content all around. But then again, what else would you expect from an Apataw production.

Movin' On Up

2008-05-01T22:43:00.000-07:00

So I found out that I have to be out of the studio I live in by the 10th of this month because the owners are moving back to san diego... Suck. I am glad to be heading out and finding a new funky studio / 1br, but it has been really tough so far, and especially on a limited schedule.

Keep your eyes out for a place in North/South Park, Golden Hill, Normal Heights, or Hillcrest. I know I am craigslisting it every day.

Movin' on up.

Sanctuary Tonight

2008-04-30T23:01:00.001-07:00

As always, we had a great sanctuary together. I wanted to point out two things that really stuck out to me.

1. Emily shared this amazing analogy that I know that I am going to butcher as I try to put it down in written form. She said that she had always felt that her spiritual journey in other faith communities had been like a small, pre-potted seed that only had a small space to grow into, and that would only ever become one type of plant. When she found Missiongathering, she said that she had found her "meadow" in which she could grow into herself and where the soil was rich. Where she could "hide out" if need be, or shine in the light of the sun. I just think this is a beautiful and brilliant analogy.

2. We were talking about why people are so attracted to churches that constantly make people feel guilty. I think the core reason is that people (especially in Western culture) get accustomed to a God that is only found in guilt. That we feel closest to God in our sin because it reminds us that we are in need of grace. It can almost become a ritual like practice to be told how terrible we are and how disappointed God is in us. Although I agree that we all need grace, and that it is good to be reminded of that... I think that God meets us in much more than just our guilt and that God sent Jesus Christ to no longer make us live in the shadow of our guilt and judgement... but instead to embrace grace and walk daily in that grace.

Bsidemix.com

2008-04-30T19:40:00.001-07:00

So I bought the domain "bsidemix.com" hoping to be able to customize my blog and give it a really cool feel and look... but man this is tough.

I designed the website in iweb... but iweb and blogger dont really get along. I really would like to make my blog look and feel like I designed... but I just can't figure out how to really make it happen.

Any ideas?

AE Love... MG PROMO 1

2008-04-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

I had a spare hour or so, and wanted to practice some AE stuff. Here is a promo for missiongathering.com.

Let me know what you think.

Adobe After Effects

2008-04-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

I know Im probably behind the curve... but I started using After Effects yesterday to put together a promo / intro video for our upcoming "Heroes" series. I am really excited about what this program can do, and what it will bring to the table at Mission.

Any experienced AE users out there? I could definitely use some tutelage.

Here is what I put together for this Sunday:

Let me know what you think...

Exponential Conference #7: The Journey Home

2008-04-26T16:58:00.000-07:00

I hate Southwest Airlines. "Hate" may be a strong word, but our last flight from Orlando to Las Vegas was torture. It wasn't just the fact that I was stuck on the end row where people constantly bumped into me on their way to the restroom. It wasn't just the larger lady that sat next to me who took half of my seat and didn't smell great. It wasn't the 5 kids that surrounded me throwing their respective fits in succession. Those all helped my distaste for the airline...

But the kicker (and if you have a weak stomach I suggest you stop reading now)...

There was puke... not cleaned up and smelling up the whole plane.

Home in two hours.

Exponential Conference #6: Need a Little Blog Love

2008-04-24T23:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone... I need a little blog love. So...

post a comment leaving a little love...

and then send my blog (bsdiemix.blogspot.com) link to at least three other friends...

love.

Exponential Conference #5: Divine Appointment?

2008-04-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

As we were watching the reenactment of Jesus' crucifiction, I noticed a guy who had some awesome hair, chucks and some rolled cuffs and looked like he didnt belong (much like I didn't). I saw Rich talking to him, so I headed over, and it turns out, it was Dan Kimball. How random is it that we ran into Dan all the way out here in Orlando and at the Holy Land Experience.

So we all got to talking about the park, and about our respective churches, and then we all went together to "meet" Jesus and take a photo.

Classic... Vintage... Experience.

Only at Missiongathering.

I found Jesus:

Dan found Jesus:

Happy Guys full of Jesus:

Exponential #4: The Holy Land Experience

2008-04-24T17:12:00.001-07:00

So today after the conference we got a chance to head over to TBN's "The Holy Land Experience." Here is a brief explanation brought to us by our friends at "Firth in the USA.":

Here is how I would describe it:

Exponential Conference #3

2008-04-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

Alan Hirsch brought the noise. I just got out of a main session where Alan Hirsch was sharing about what it truly means to be exponential. Man, it was good stuff. I am so thankful that someone is having the strength and the passion to stand up and say that we need to truly put CHRIST back into the center of CHRISTIANITY. The way he put it was this:

Christology > Missiology > Ecclesiology

Another way of putting it:

Church (minus) Christ (equals) religion

Church (plus) Christ (equals) Christianity

Thank you Alan for having the courage to challenge the way in which we start our churches here in the west. I think that stood out to me most was the way in which he broke down the old accepted thought of "Jesus standing outside the doors of our hearts (and our churches) and we only need to let him in" by asking why Jesus was outside in the first place!

Good stuff... couldn't have said it better

Exponential Conference #2

2008-04-21T13:10:00.001-07:00

My first session has been really cool. It's interesting to hear the ideas about creative communication and to see where MG is really ahead, and areas that we can possibly do much better in.

A few things that stuck out to me today were:

1. "Internal Marketing." The way that we communicate to our MG Villagers... there are some really interesting ideas that I think could work well at MG.

2. Finding creative ways to challenge our communities to invite other people. I think this is an interesting concept... instead of just saying it, how do we make it accessible and creative?

Exponential Conference #1

2008-04-21T08:48:00.001-07:00

We are off to the first preliminary session at the conference we are attending. If you'd like to check out what it is, go to www.exponentialconference.com. I am signed up for the "Creative Communication in New Churches" pre-track. I didn't know until now that Mark Batterson is leading my pre-conference track. Mark is the Pastor at National Church (DC) and we have chatted a few times about Rescue coming out to play at his church. I'm stoked about seeing him again.

I am actually really looking forward to getting a chance to hear what church planters from across America are observing about faith and the shift that seems to be happening throughout the US.

I should be blogging throughout my time here, so keep up to date with me.

Safley in the South

2008-04-20T23:52:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely in Orlando tonight. With a quick layover in Nash Vegas (Nashville) we had really smooth travels. On the way to the hotel tonight, we drove through what I am going to call the "Realm of Disney." Pretty amazing, and I really hope we get a chance to spend a day at Walt Disney World.

We had some Brinner (thats breakfast for dinner) at the good ol' Waffle House, and checked into the hotel. I definately feel like I am now officially in the south.

Here are the official overflow rules for Waffle House... gotta love the south.

MG Baptisms

2008-04-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

This Sunday was absolutely amazing.

I am sitting here in the San Diego International Airport, waiting to board our flight to Orlando and can't stop thinking about just how amazing this morning truly was.

I saw people who hadn't planned on being baptised stand up out of their seats and move toward the baptismal wanting to free themselves from the shackles of religion and breathe in the fresh air of a new Jesus (actually an old Jesus) that accepted them and loved them fully. Despite all of the planning and programming we can do as a team, there is nothing more powerful than watching people breathe freedom in.

Thank you Missiongathering for letting me be a part of such and amazing Sunday. God is moving in the lives of people here in San Diego... setting them free and allowing them to live into the grace that has been there for them since their first breath.

Baptism Sunday

2008-04-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

Join us Sunday @ 10:30AM. www.missiongathering.com

Azariah Southworth

2008-04-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

Laura turned me onto this interesting story. Thank you Azariah for being real with yourself despite the potential loss of your career. I truly believe that "lines" are being drawn in the sand, and the momentum is growing to finally (and truthfully) start asking honest questions about spirituality and sexuality.

Check out the story here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/16/azariah-southworth-popula_n_97078.html

Voice of Restoration

2008-04-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

We had a great sanctuary tonight. As a highlight, we got to talk about what Jesus' voice would have sounded like, and what the "spirit" of his voice truly was. Through that conversation, we started talking about how we hear / read Jesus' voice as a voice of restoration time and time again. Not of judgement or condemnation or even righteousness, but a voice of true restoration.

I thought I'd get this out tonight, and elaborate tomorrow on it... but what an amazingly different tone a voice of restoration (which includes love, grace and peace) than a voice of regulation and righteous judgement.

Good night.

Some Good, Healthy Snacks

2008-04-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

Interested in some healthy, organic snacks? You wont find them here.

The Knott's "Experience'

2008-04-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Well... Knotts was much more fun as a kid. I had a great day hanging out with Laura, and we had a lot of laughs and smiles, but Disney is so much cooler. I think that Knott's is really struggling to find their true "identity" as a theme park. As such, random things are kind of slammed together in strange and almost akward ways.

Highlight of the Park: In the arcade they have a game called "Turkey Hunter." Literally, you are given a large shotgun type controller (like duck hunt) and different scenes with Turkeys to shoot are flashed on the big screen... Although I am not a hunter... and although I have no interest in shooting Turkeys... everytime you got one, the game called you a "Turkey Slayer." That alone was worth my 50 cents. (oh the irony)

Lowlight of the Park: The really creepy anamatronic humans in each of the old rides... they dont blink and are really stiff (probably made of wood). I dont trust anything that doesn't blink.

Off To Knotts

2008-04-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

It was Laura's birthday yesterday, so today we decided to head to a random place called Knott's Berry Farm. We both haven't been there in years, so we are looking forward to experiencing it anew... haha. It is strange how exciting a new adventure with her truly is. Have a great Monday.

Is Anyone Out There?

2008-04-12T12:05:00.001-07:00

Is anyone reading this anymore? If you are, hit me back with some love... haven't heard from anyone lately.

bside design

2008-04-11T18:29:00.000-07:00

Im thinking about starting a small creative design company to help non-profit organizations improve their design and graphic presentation. Really this stemmed from working with a few non-profits on some smaller projects that really helped propel the message and branding of their central message. I will elaborate later, but Im starting the initial design / business plan of the company, and wanted some creative insight. So here is a logo in different colors.

The company will be called "Bside Design" based on my kind of motto: "life's better on the bside." When 45s were released (thats vinyl for all you digital folk) the single was on the "A" side while the more creative (and often better) song was on the bside.

1) What do you think about it? 2) Which color do you like the best? 3) Are you interested in being involved in any way?

Welcome Fellow Deviants

2008-04-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome all of you fellow deviants. I just did a mad update on my deviantart.com website. You can check it out at suipoc.deviantart.com/gallery. Please give me some deviant love and maybe even purchase a print of your favorite piece. Last time I posted, I was a featured artist. That was really cool and unexpected.

imagine grace (political)

2008-04-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

Here is some art I just posted on deviantart.com. How do you feel when you see this?

betterworldshopper.com

2008-04-10T11:26:00.001-07:00

My friend Tracy introduced me to this site, and it has definately been illuminating to me. This site is dedicated to giving information on companies and goods that we often consume on a daily basis. Check it out for yourself at www.betterworldshopper.com. Here is a good screen shot:

A Good Coffee

2008-04-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

So I had coffee with a friend of mine the other day at Cafe Carpe Diem. If you haven't yet visited Carpe Diem, you are missing out. Free Trade and Organic Coffee in a really chic looking place. Good prices, and great coffee. Its on the corner of University Ave and Herman Ave.

As my friend Lauren and I were talking, she reminded me just how lame I have been at keeping my blog up. I know I've made a lot of unfulfilled promises to get back on it, but at last, I am challenging myself to do it. Hold me accountable if you'd like with nagging emails and scathing text messages...

rad.

EMC 2008

2008-04-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

The "Everything Must Change Tour" happened last weekend at Missiongathering and went off. I had an amazing time getting to know Linnea (from Deep Shift) and Tracy Howe (the worship leader for the tour). Great event, great music, and some great conversations were had throughout the weekend. Thank you to all who were involved, and here is a cool photo of yet another FILIPINO worship leader (we are taking over the world!).

iphone Fun

2008-03-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

So I got a new toy... and I love it... and I made some cool wallpapers for it. Enjoy.

Food For Thought

2008-03-10T14:38:00.001-07:00

To have a right to do a thing is not at all the same as to be right in doing it.
- GK Chesterton

Sanctuary Rocks

2008-02-27T23:57:00.001-08:00

We had a great sanctuary tonight. Our discussion really shed some light on some things that i've been feeling and kind of working out in my head lately. I will get into those tomorrow, but the basic underlying tone of the discussion was on sexism. Within our culture, how it influences our cultural view of homosexuality, how it impacts our faith, and even how it impacts Missiongathering. I really loved the conversation and I am excited to see where it leads us....

for now though... sleep.

Some Flash Love

2008-02-27T18:43:00.000-08:00

So I opened up Adobe Flash CS3 for the first time and took a user crash course for the last 45 minutes. Looks like a fun program... can't wait until I get some more time under my belt for this thing... Check out www.missiongathering.com for my handy work in the banner.

Happy Saturday

2008-02-16T16:26:00.001-08:00

"Ask a deeply religious Christian if he’d rather live next to a bearded Muslim that may or may not be plotting a terror attack, or an atheist that may or may not show him how to set up a wireless network in his house. On the scale of prejudice, atheists don’t seem so bad lately."
- Scott Adams

I know Its been a while...

2008-02-14T19:22:00.001-08:00

Have you ever observed that we pay much more attention to a wise passage when it is quoted than when we read it in the original author?
- Philip G. Hamerton

Im Back...

2008-01-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

After a couple of crazy weeks where I felt like I had no time at all to sit down and get my thoughts out... I am back to the blogging world. Look out... two a days are on their way.

Missiongathering Christmas Eve

2007-12-20T13:26:00.001-08:00

Magi in a Modern Nativity

2007-12-19T23:58:00.000-08:00

Sanctuary was pretty chill tonight. We hung out at Emily's place and she provided AMAZING snacks. She had these little bite size desserts (that I could eat) that she called "Yum Yums." Haha. It is a family recipe of marshmellows, rice crispys, white chocolate and (I think) caramel. Really good. On top of that, she had eggnog for us all to enjoy. Good Christmas times...

After a really long week... and a challenging one at that, I was stoked to hang out with my sanctuary folks. We has a cool conversation about Joseph's role in Jesus' birth and growth. A man that truly embodied compassion and righteousness. I think it would be awesome to learn more about Hebrew cultural norms in that time.

We talked about the role of the Magi as well and I figured Id share it with all of you:

My thought was that the grassroots movement that became the announcement of the Messiah was done through a group of influential tribal leaders that were committed to telling the story of Jesus' birth. I think we often think about the Nativity as a huge "city-wide" event that everyone attended... but the reality of the story is that probably even the inn-keeper didn't know about Jesus' birth at the time. Probably years later, he had a realization that the young pregnant woman who came to his establishment in need of shelter actually carried the Messiah. Or maybe not. Who knows... but the point being that Jesus' birth was something that kind of happened under the radar.

But through the Magi... (the influential men and women of the time) the nation of Israel began to understand that the world was changing. Their words, to those around them, began to tell the story of Emmanuel. Their journey to find the Christ-child eventually led others to journey toward this same story.

Which leads me to this thought: maybe we are the Magi of our time. We have journeyed to the "stable" and experienced the reality of Emmanuel in our lives. And all of us have a level of influence within our circles of friends and family.

Maybe the message of Christmas... the true message of HOPE... is not something that is meant to broadcast across a large cross-section of people we dont know and probably never will... but instead, the message of HOPE is to be spread from our mouths... to those who we have relationship with... to those that we carry influence with.

I think we are the Magi in this modern Nativity.

Egyptian Tea Room

2007-12-18T00:49:00.001-08:00

I am in the college area with my friends Hammerhead and Gayle, hanging out at this cool little coffee / hookah / tea shop. I had a bad day... and a frustrating night (lets just say it took me five different coffee shops to finally find one that was open... and cool. Im leaving soon... and going to bed. Im glad I got a chance to hang out with my friends tonight. They made me smile.

My Family

2007-12-13T16:02:00.000-08:00

Me, Amy (10), Rachel (17), and my Mom.

Grandma's 80th

2007-12-13T16:00:00.001-08:00

Me and my precious Grandmother Beverly.

Trailer Park Christmas

2007-12-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Hey All,

I would like to cordially invite you to our first annual "Trailer Park Christmas: Gingerbread Trailer" Party. We will be making our own trailer park "lot" and then at the end of the night putting them all together to form our very first Christmas Trailer Park.

Make sure you bring supplies for your personal "lot" of land as well as a bag of candy to share with everyone. We will provide the graham crackers, "lot of land," and the frosting. Anything else, is up to you.

Please feel free to get dressed for the occasion. I know I will be.

The Facts-
Who: You... and Me... and some others... invite whomever you would like to.

What: Gingerbread Trailer Park decorating party and then we are going to be packing backpacks for Border Angels.

When: Wednesday, December 12, 2007. 6pm till we are done.

Where: Pastor Rich's house. 3485 Copley Ave, SD, CA 92116.

Why: Because we can... and to help in a good cause (Border Angels).

see you wednesday.

CLICK ON THIS IMMEDIATELY

2007-12-08T16:03:00.001-08:00

A very important message from the Missiongathering staff

Inspire Thought #4

2007-12-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

O Come O Come Emmanuel

2007-12-06T16:45:00.000-08:00

Click here to listen.

O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here
And drive away the shades of night
And pierce the clouds and bring us light
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Desire of nations, bind
All people in one heart and mind
Bid envy strife and quarrels cease
Fill all the world with heaven's peace
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

Inspire Thought #3

2007-12-05T18:41:00.001-08:00

Inspire Thought #2

2007-12-03T15:41:00.001-08:00

Inspire Thought #1

2007-12-03T15:39:00.000-08:00

Inspire Thought

2007-12-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

I've started a new design series called "inspire thought." I needed new things to inspire thought while I stared aimlessly into my computer. So you can use these as simple desktops, or print them and take them to meetings or whatever... but enjoy. Give me your feedback, I'd love to hear it.

Advent Conspiracy

2007-11-28T17:38:00.000-08:00

new pieces for MG's advent season. www.missiongathering.com

MIA

2007-11-28T17:35:00.000-08:00

So I've been pretty much MIA for a while now. I apologize... but life has been extremely busy. I will get some updates up here... but for now, hang with me a while longer until things slow down. Until then, enjoy some of the new design pieces I've been doing for MG.

Fun With Brushes

2007-11-20T20:38:00.003-08:00

I got a whole bunch of new brushes today and had some fun... here is a result:

I Love Apple... Apple Loves Me

2007-11-19T22:32:00.000-08:00

A great image from the good people at Apple.

For Those Alone

2007-11-19T15:36:00.000-08:00

You Are God's Beloved. God loves you just as you are. Just as He shaped you and made you. The same God who placed the stars in the sky and hung the moon in place has promised you his unyielding love forever. God's love is in pursuit of you constantly... and is in the midst of all you do. Every conversation... Every thought... Every movement... Every smile... Every tear... Every doubt... Every kiss... Every lonely moment... Every struggle... Every achievement... Every success... Every triumph. God's love is there... in your midst... surrounding you.

A Beautiful Prayer / Lectio

2007-11-14T16:48:00.000-08:00

Saint Theresa's Prayer

May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.

Rooted In Christ... Branching Out In Love

2007-11-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

Some graphics I did for the upcoming message at Missiongathering.

MG Staff...

2007-11-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

We are beautiful people....

Did You Know...

2007-11-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

Roman soldiers were paid in part with a salt ration called "sarium argentum," which is where the modern term "Salary" comes from?

Hallelujah, God Is Near

2007-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

Hallelujah, God Is Near

God’s resplendent glory full
On display for all to see
God creator – God of hope
Beautiful redeeming Grace

Healer of the broken down
Of the orphans and oppressed
Find Him dining with the poor
Find Him here surrounding

Chorus:
Hallelujah God is near
Hallelujah God is near

From oceans depth to cedar trees
Fields of wheat along the plains
Praise to God from all the earth
Praise Him from the mountaintops

His radiance is greater than
Anything on earth and sky
Stars and moon will guard the night
Shinning to the God on high
Let true love break out in praise
Let it dance and praise His name
All creation join to sing
Hallelujah to the king

We love, oh, we love
We sing, oh, we sing to You
We shout Hallelujah
We shout Hallelujah

FortyOneTwenty.com

2007-11-07T17:38:00.001-08:00

This is a new resource I found for cool videos to incorporate into your gathering. Check it out here. Some great videos and I especially like their stills. Enjoy.

Surgery...

2007-11-05T16:28:00.001-08:00

I spent the morning with my good friend Casey as he underwent surgery on his stomach. They are doing exploratory surgery to see exactly what is wrong with him. As I sat in the post-op brief, it struck me just how much we still dont understand about the human body. The bottom line, the doctors still have no clue exactly what is wrong with my bro. As weird as this sounds, it made me kind of smile... to think that there is still such mystery in our world.

Pray for Casey. Please pray honestly for him. I know that God is working in his life and in the midst of this tough uncertainty.

Sac-Town

2007-11-03T17:28:00.001-07:00

"From Sac-Town, the bay area and back down... Cali is with it lay your mac down" to quote a little Tupoc. Im hanging out in Sacramento International getting ready for the last leg of my trip back to SD. Over dinner I had a chance to just kinda gaze out into the openness of the central valley and realized just how much I really miss it. I know it sounds archaic and a bit country / hillbilly... but there is something magical about the open land that surrounds this kinda twilight zone of California. I think i will have to head back here soon for an actual visit.

No Sean Penn... but plenty of "wide open spaces (thanks Dixie Chicks... no really... thanks)."

peace.

Sleepless (Back) In Seattle - Sean Penn

2007-11-01T23:33:00.000-07:00

So I am currently sitting in 36 degree weather here in good old Seattle. Wow its cold. So I was in Oakland earlier today and sneaked off my plane to go grab a quick snack. As I approached the counter to pay for my tasty snack, I arrived at the counter at the same time as... no other than... Sean Penn! How crazy is that. He was buying a newspaper and I had a Vitamin Water and a candy bar. I didnt actually realize that it was him until the lady behind the counter whispered, "Sean Penn..." I replied, "What?" She whispered again, "Sean Penn, thats Sean Penn." I turned around and introduced myself and thanked him for letting me go first.

So that was my day. Other than a few long hours on a plane, a wonderful dinner at a local Fish House overlooking a gorgeous view of the city and a hang out in the lobby with all the Off The Map folks.

I love this city...

sidereel.com

2007-10-30T14:41:00.001-07:00

This is an amazing website with tons of good shows that are free streaming. Check it out. www.sidereel.com

Back in the Office

2007-10-29T14:55:00.001-07:00

Im back... crazy last week... but Monday has arrived.

SD Fires... A Lectio

2007-10-26T23:15:00.000-07:00

This is a lectio for Missiongathering on Sunday. Love Remains. If you would like to use this video for your worship gathering... please email me at jay@missiongathering.com.

Love Remains

2007-10-24T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is the only way I know how to process these fires. These are lyrics from a song I wrote and will play on Sunday at Missiongathering.

Love Remains

Oh the world did change
As the skys all filled with grey
And the ground scorched with pain
Took our lives away

But love remained
Oh love remained
How love remained
Our love remained

And here we are
With sill beating hearts
And eyes to see us through
Oh here we are, Here are you

Love remains
Oh love remains
How love remains
Our love remains

Let this love, get you through
Let this love, get us through
Let your love, get us through
Let our love, get you through

Love still remains
Oh love still remains
Oh how love still remains
Our love still remains

SD Fires

2007-10-23T18:08:00.001-07:00

some images from my office.

San DIego Fires... How To Help

2007-10-23T18:02:00.001-07:00

http://helpsandiego.blogspot.com/

click on the link.

You can also sign up with volunteersandiego.com.

SD Fires... How we can help

2007-10-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

Click Here To Help...

Preview: Beauty Is Hope

2007-10-18T19:00:00.003-07:00

This is a preview of a vid for Missiongathering this upcoming Sunday... be there... or be... um... ummm... not there.

Anger... So Much Anger

2007-10-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

I am struggling with this right now. I cannot see how anyone can look at the gospel of Jesus Christ and justify excluding certain groups of people based on their humanity. I am really struggling right now. I didnt know just how angry I really was until last night, as I processed on my drive home and my drive to sanctuary, this sick.. stomach anger swelled up in me and overtook my very physical being. I am so angry right now with the church... with christian leaders that choose to exclude... with people who say they are about the "ministry" of Jesus Christ, but rationalize their judgement and ignorance with selected readings of scripture. I cannot imagine a world where the message of christianity would be a message of exclusion, judgement and behavior modification.

I am not an angry person. I do not get angry often, quickly or over silly things. In fact, for the most part people typically call me "non-confrontational." But this has really pissed me off. This has made me confrontational. I am not so much mad at specific people... but upset with the fact that there are so many people that will be marginalized and judged based on rationalizations of the gospel. My heart is burning with honest sadness for those that I see will be left out, and told that their pursuit of healthy spirituality is not valid by men that have no idea what it is like to walk in the shoes of the very people they exclude.

As I sat with a friend last night and talked about what I was feeling, she told me that there is a reason. That this issue will be the issue that defines our time right now. And that God is stirring me and putting an immense passion in me right now that can only be preparing me for His use. I am trying to have compassion. To view the "other side" of the argument with understanding and grace, but as I sit right now, that is extremely hard.

Christ came so that none would be left in the dark. Christ died so that all could have ownership in the Kingdom of God. Christ rose to commission us into being disciples of his love and grace and hope. Christ has asked us to extend His hands of caring... His eyes of understanding... His legs of mercy and His heart of LOVE. Love never excludes... never.

I am not sure yet what to do with this anger. I am not sure how to express it or how to use it for productive means. I am praying. I am praying hard that there is clarity in the path in front of me. This passion is for a reason and I am here, in this unique time and space... for a reason.

If you are reading these words... please pray with me. Please take up the cross of love... unconditional love... and carry it to those that are marginalized and outcast. Love extravagantly with me and help to paint a new vision of faith. A faith that includes... a faith that hopes... and a faith that loves. Without that.. we only have ignorance... and ignorance breeds fear... and fear breeds hate... and hate leads to things that are much worse than the darkest places of a persons heart.

1 Corinthians 13:12-13 (msg)
" 12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love."

George Bush????

2007-10-18T10:25:00.000-07:00

"An era that has seen an unprecedented number of nations embrace individual freedom has also witnessed the stubborn endurance of religious repression. Americans cannot look to the plight of the religiously oppressed and closer our eyes or turn away." GW, SD Union Tribune, October 18, 2007.

I think this is the smartest thing I have ever heard GW say. Too bad we won't look internally at the "religiously oppressed" sitting in our church pews and altars every day.

We Own The Night

2007-10-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

Joaquin Phoenix, Marky Mark, Eva Mendes and Robert Duvall. Definitely not what I expected this movie to be at all. I went into the movie last night with a few friends thinking that it was going to be an action packed battle between two brothers who found themselves on opposite sides of the "law." Instead, what I got was a great period piece that told a deep story of transformation for a family who was controlled by "the law." I think I am still figuring out what I "got" out of the movie, but I can honestly say that I really enjoyed it. The storytelling was done really well and led me down a path of discovery that was deeply invested in the characters in the story.

I still cant get over Joaquin Pheonix though. I just wanted him, in the middle of the movie, to break out into just the chorus of "Ring of Fire." If there was a disappointment.. that was it.

Some MG Press

2007-10-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Click Here... City Beat's Sheep & Goats.

Turf Supper Club

2007-10-16T16:18:00.000-07:00

Alex and I have had a standing Turf Club appointment for about the last year on Tuesdays at 8:30pm. Turf Club is by FAR my favorite restaurant/ bar in town. The decor hasn't been changed since like the 60's and the atmosphere puts out a real retro vibe. It is usually packed full of artists, musicians, and crazy kids that live in the surrounding areas of Golden Hill, South Park, Logan Heights and North Park. The food... well, lets just say the food is what you make it. My personal favorite is the Beef Kabobs with a side salad w/ ranch. This place, if you've never been, will be a great experience. Plan on a night of retro fun, culinary challenge and rat-pack beverage consumption. How can you not love a place that has Dave Brubeck and Lady Dottie in the same juke box...

You are always welcome to come and join Alex and I... we will always be there as long as we are in town. On 25th between "B" and "C" street.

Bad Chinese

2007-10-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Ever had a hangover case of bad chinese food? Well... thats what today has been for me. I think its almost out of my system... thankfully. Oh the beautiful way Kung Pao Chicken can make you smile and make you frown. haha.

Now Listening #5

2007-10-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

Radiohead's new album "In Rainbows." This band continues to amaze my musical brain. Honestly, they nailed this album musically with a perfect blend of programming and great guitar work. I haven't had too much time to interact with the lyrics, but I am loving this stuff. Once again, Radiohead proves why they are my favorite band and the best live concert I have ever been to.

Hanging With Brian McLaren

2007-10-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

Intensity: In Four Parts

2007-10-14T23:48:00.000-07:00

The last week of my life has been an extremely intense time. God is definitely speaking to me and opening my eyes through four very specific experiences in the last 6 days: Seattle, David Crowder, Brian McLaren, and the movie "For The Bible Tells Me So." So in an attempt to really document this, Im going to break these down. If you don't like long posts, or tire easily from reading long things... read one at a time... haha.

Seattle
What a wonderful city and what a wonderful experience. I can truly say I fell in love with the city of Seattle and with the people of Seattle. Throughout my four days there, I was overwhelmed by the sense of community and collective responsibility that seemed to spill out of every conversation and street corner I engaged. From my conversation with Frankie, a street kid in the Capitol District, to my time with an ecumenical gathering of Pastors and leaders from around the U-District... there was a thread of hope and collective love for one another that came through louder and clearer than anything else I heard. It seemed that there was a spirit of authentic compassion and desire to be connected to neighbors and people living in proximity to one another.

On top of all that, I got the chance to hear from leaders of the church that has come before my time. I saw the compassion and desire to live out the gospel in love and truth that refreshed my young soul in a different way. it let me know that I was not alone in my pursuit of love and hope. it let me know that I was connected to a heritage and tradition of love... and that the church truly has a message that is not necessarily new... but is taking on new life and new relationship to the world at large.

I have immense hope for a new kind of church in Seattle. One that contextually communicates the message of love and hope for those that so desperately need to hear it. I pray that I get to be a part of that. That Missiongathering gets to be a part of that new narrative that will be told. God taught me that my story is not new... but the way that I tell it will be new. God showed me that I am so connected and supported by those that have been there... and God refreshed me by giving me hope for a new future... not disconnected from our past...

David Crowder
What struck me most about my time at the DCB concert was the honest truth that I heard. This sums it all up for me:

"When all the love in the world
Is right here among us
And hatred too
And so we must choose
What our hands will do

Where there is pain
Let there be grace
Where there is suffering
Bring serenity
For those afraid
Help them be brave
Where there is misery
Bring expectancy
And surely we can change
Surely we can change
Something"

God pushed me to write. God told me that its okay to write this album in the truth that he is showing me. God released me to write.

Brian McLaren
One phrase: "an epistemology of love." It was great to have Brian join us this morning at Missiongathering. I felt honored to share the stage with such an influential and honest man that is trying to help us understand what it means to have faith today. Once again, I found myself soaking in what God was surrounding me with. Letting me know that It is alright to go forward in my thoughts and convictions... and to live out my epistemology of love. That my view of the world, and my view of others is rooted in the way in which I love.

As we chatted after the gathering, Brian took me aside and said, "Thank you for the music this morning. The music was just wonderful. The songs were right. And its not often that you get really good music... and a really good mix together." (Holla Erik, soundman extrodinare). Which lead me to think... that just like good music and a good mix... there can be good music written through the epistemology of love.

Again, I feel released to write. Released to communicate in my way the love that is deepening in me.

For The Bible Tells Me So
If you have not heard about this movie or have not seen it... Head to your local indie film house and sit your butt in the seat. What a great piece on what it means to love. I am still processing everything that I saw and heard tonight, but ultimately it isnt a film that is arguing for the "rightness" of homosexuality nor the "wrongness" of it. Instead, it is saying that there are marginalized people that have been segregated by a book that was never meant to segregate. That the message of Jesus... and the message that we as christ followers should be so fixated on... is a message of inclusion. And not just inclusion... but love. I am sure tomorrow I will have more thoughts on the movie...

Wrap Up
God is showing me that the purpose in my life... the purpose of my music and my creative craziness is to communicate a love for all and a love for the marginalized and outcast. That God is screaming that message through many different mediums and is asking me to join in collective voice that the world needs to hear. I know that I haven't really been able to summarize in these few paragraphs the true swelling of my heart and soul over the last few days... but its there. Pray with me.. pray for me.. journey with me as we find out what it means to love.

Missiongathering: Brian McLaren

2007-10-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

Come... Join... Listen...

Quick Update

2007-10-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

Alright all. I am back in San Diego and believe it or not this is the first chance I've had to sit down and say "what up" to my internet homies. What a crazy couple of days. So the last I left you, I was in Boise, Idaho for a few hours waiting for my flight. I spent the flight chatting with the guitar player from Anberlin and a few ladies from Canada on their way for a "Jazz Cruise" down to Mexico.

As soon as the wheels of my plane hit the tarmac, I found myself at the David Crowder Band concert downtown at the House of Blues. Great music... and I will DEFINITELY elaborate later (good music, great band opening, good times). After the show, I found a ride home, but made a pit stop at a good-bye party for a friend. Hung there for a while, gave hugs, and headed home to unpack and wash some clothes for the upcoming day. Today, I've been in the office all day helping get our Ray @ Night folks up and running and finishing the media for tomorrow.

I am now heading to Ray @ Night for a quick hello.. then off to dinner with Brian, Rich, Alex and a girl I have yet to meet... then we are going to a few galleries, to the hotel.. sleep... wake up early.. and (the best part) do church in the morning.

Crazy times... but I am loving life. Seattle was amazing. (I owe two posts: DCB and Seattle). Hope to see some of you tonight.
grace.

I DA HO...

2007-10-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

Im hanging in Boise, Idaho... yeah, you read that right. I had some tacos from a place called "Maui Tacos." Lets just say, I cant wait for some Seguaros. Ill be home soon... YEAH!

Seattle Update #2

2007-10-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Hey all... This is the first time I've gotten a chance to sit down write. I am sitting in a Tully's on Fourth & Union in downtown Seattle. This city is amazing. I have really fallen in love with the few areas I've been to the last day or so. Im gonna post some pics up of the trip so far. The meetings are going well. We have another one in about an hour or so with the core leadership of the Church. Keep praying for us and for God to be in the midst of what is happening here in Seattle.
Tully's: all fair trade coffee and compostable cups... very cool:

Rental Car... no insurance please...

cool building downtown:

The Pink Door, an underground bar experience... very very very cool:

great image:

Alaska Flight 593... Outtie!

2007-10-09T15:43:00.000-07:00

We are off... The storm has subsided just enough...

Alaska Flight 593... Delayed

2007-10-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

We are kicking it at the airport. Got some Rubios in me... and settling down for our flight... WHICH is LATE. Matt and I are having fun though.

Off To The Home of the 'Bucks

2007-10-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

I am leaving in less than an hour for Seattle. It should be a great trip... we have a crazy itinerary planned out for us already. We are headed up there to discuss the possibility of planting a Missiongathering: Seattle right in the heart of what they call the "U-District." There is a beautiful church right in the heart of the village that is wanting some re-vitalization. I am stoked about the potential there... a little nervous... and a little tired. Overall, I think this will be a great trip.

Much love my SD peeps. Dont you fret... Ill be home on Saturday.

Now Listening #4

2007-10-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

Guster. Oh what a name. I know I am a little bit behind the curve in discovering their music... but it is really cool stuff. Right now I am listening to the song "Either Way." Really cool lyrics over the top of some good sample work. The song "Satellite" has some great key work in it too. guster.com

Potato Salad

2007-10-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

Thats right.. I had potato salad for dinner tonight. Packing for Seattle... Trying to finish up some work I can't bring with me... Meetings... Interviewing people... DC planning meeting.. goodness gracious great potatos of fire.

Urban Solace

2007-10-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

I just had a working lunch at a new restaurant that just opened up here in my hood called "Urban Solace." It was really really really good food and a cool new atmosphere. If you get the chance, definitely go and give it a try. Support local business... Eat local food... and get really really fat doing it. Smiles all around.

I Am Free...

2007-10-08T12:56:00.001-07:00

Yesterday at Missiongathering was a great time. We introduced a new song called "I Am Free." It was pretty rad (and yes I used the word RAD) to see our community really engage. The lyrics speak to where we are in our life of our community. So I figured I would post the lyrics up here... so here they are:

I Am Free
Through You the blind will see
Through You the mute will sing
Through You the dead will rise
Through You all hearts will praise
Through You the darkness flees
Through You my heart screams, I am free!

I am free to run
(I am free to run)
I am free to dance
(I am free to dance)
I am free to live for you
(I am free to live for you)
I am free
(I am free)

Through You the kingdom's come
Through You the battle's won
Through You I'm not afraid
Through You the price is paid
Through You there's victory
Because of You my heart screams I am free
I am free

Who the Son sets free, Is free indeed
Who the Son sets free, Is free indeed
Who the Son sets free, Is free indeed
Who the Son sets free, Is free indeed

Bakersfield HO!

2007-10-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

So yesterday after church I jumped in the car with my good friend Casey and we trucked it all the way up to good ol' Bakersfield. Casey needed to trade trucks with his family and I was along for the ride. It is amazing how such a long drive can be quite enjoyable. Good conversation. Had a great dinner at CHUYS'S! And ultimately I am really glad I went.

From Letters To Peace

2007-10-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

I sent out fundraising letters today to close friends and family regarding TBR's new album. I prayed over them as I walked them to the post-office and placed them in the mail box. It was cool realizing what I was praying for. I found myself praying not for success, but that God's will would be done through these letters. I think I am getting to a place where I know that if this album is supposed to happen, then God will see it through. And if it isnt, then God will see that through.

Its crazy that I am finally in this place. And I have a weird and almost surreal sense of peace about it.

We will see what happens... but for now, I invite you to journey with me. Its gonna be a rollercoaster!

Sneak Peak...

2007-10-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

Ray @ Night is on October 13. Our "Artist In Residence," Sarah Cusey, has been putting together some great things for this event working with her team of local artists. I got a sneak peak of some of the stuff that will be displayed. We are asking the question: What is beautiful? Check out these sneak peak photos I stole:

Attack Of The Hand

2007-10-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

What a terrible way to have your tea interrupted...

Our Sanctuary

2007-10-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

What a great group. I got a chance last night to hang out with my sanctuary for the first time (sans a few missing people) and totally loved it. It was great to hear that everyone is basically in the same place... wanting authentic and true community around them. I couldn't help but smile as each of us shared our thoughts about what we wanted out of the group and why we were there. Ultimately, I am really excited about what this group has in store for all of us.

Group - Thanks for sharing all of your hidden talents. Now if we can find a way for Julia to hum (in tune) the ABC's backwards while beat-boxing... we will have perfect transfusion. haha.

much love

Miracles

2007-10-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

"Miracles occur naturally as expressions of love. The real miracle is the love that inspires them. In this sense everything that comes from love is a miracle." -Marianne Williamson, A Return To Love.

The B-Side Mix

Bsidemix.com

A Tough One

A Good Day

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Movin' On Up

Sanctuary Tonight

Bsidemix.com

Recommended Reading

AE Love... MG PROMO 1

Adobe After Effects

Exponential Conference #7: The Journey Home

Exponential Conference #6: Need a Little Blog Love

Exponential Conference #5: Divine Appointment?

Exponential #4: The Holy Land Experience

Exponential Conference #3

Exponential Conference #2

Exponential Conference #1

Safley in the South

MG Baptisms

Baptism Sunday

Azariah Southworth

Voice of Restoration

Some Good, Healthy Snacks

The Knott's "Experience'

Off To Knotts

Is Anyone Out There?

bside design

Welcome Fellow Deviants

imagine grace (political)

betterworldshopper.com

A Good Coffee

EMC 2008

iphone Fun

Food For Thought

Sanctuary Rocks

Some Flash Love

Happy Saturday

I know Its been a while...

Im Back...

Missiongathering Christmas Eve

Magi in a Modern Nativity

Egyptian Tea Room

My Family

Grandma's 80th

Trailer Park Christmas

CLICK ON THIS IMMEDIATELY

Inspire Thought #4

O Come O Come Emmanuel

Inspire Thought #3

Inspire Thought #2

Inspire Thought #1

Inspire Thought

Advent Conspiracy

MIA

Fun With Brushes

I Love Apple... Apple Loves Me

For Those Alone

A Beautiful Prayer / Lectio

Rooted In Christ... Branching Out In Love

MG Staff...

Did You Know...

Hallelujah, God Is Near

FortyOneTwenty.com

Surgery...

Sac-Town

Sleepless (Back) In Seattle - Sean Penn

sidereel.com

Back in the Office

SD Fires... A Lectio

Love Remains

SD Fires

San DIego Fires... How To Help

SD Fires... How we can help

Preview: Beauty Is Hope

Anger... So Much Anger

George Bush????

We Own The Night

Some MG Press

Turf Supper Club