A Carbo Experience

What are you doing this Sunday?

2010-09-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone, Don't forget that this Sunday we are having our annual Picnic! The Roots Community Church wants to celebrate with you so come on out right after the worship gathering to Davenport Lakes (east side of US 27 just south of US 192 exit between Polo Park and Bass Lake).

There will be plenty of food, games, and fun.

We will have a 70' bounce house obstacle course/water slide...you don't want to miss this!

Also, we will be baptizing a few people who have made a decision to follow Jesus. It's going to be spectacular!

Hope you can come.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at therootscommuntiy@gmail.com

Pastor Jesse

When was the last time you went on a Picnic?

2010-08-31T07:19:00.001-07:00

When's the last time you and the family went out on a picnic? Well, this weekend you have the opportunity to go! Don't miss it! It's the Annual Roots Community Church Picnic right after our worship gathering on Sunday, September 5th from 11:30AM until 3:00PM.

We will be hosting the picnic at Davenport Lakes Subdivision on US 27 (east side) just south of US 192 between Polo Park and Bass Lake.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me therootscommunity@gmail.com

P.S. Bring a lawnchair and towel.

P.S.S There will be a waterslide for the kids...

Want To Have Fun This Weekend?

2010-08-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Don't be stuck inside, board, with nothing to do. The Roots Community Church is going to have a Labor Day Picnic on Sunday, September 5th right after church at 11:30AM until we're tired!

So here is what you can expect: FOOD!! Lots of Free Food. If you want, you can bring a dish with you. But you don't have to. There is a pool, so bring a towel. Also, we are going to have the largest bounce house you have ever seen. It's a 70 foot obstacle course with a waterslide! Whoohoo!

We are going to have so much fun. I hope to see you there.

P.S. Maybe you can join us for church...10AM! 8681 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy In the Shoppes of Vista Del Lago.

P.S.S. We are also going to be baptizing several people that afternoon. It's gonna be amazing. See you there.

If you have any questions just shoot me an email: therootscommunity@gmail.com

2010-07-07T16:19:00.000-07:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Roots Community Newsletter
You Belong Here...
July 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IN THIS ISSUE:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Update on the June's Newsletter and How God Came Through BIG Time!

2. Pastor Paul Podraza and his family moving here from Birmingham, AL to be Co-Pastor
at The Roots

3. Karen Brooks and her new role as the "Connections Pastor"!
________________________________________________
Dear Friends,

Have you ever been in a bind so badly that you were so desperate and needed rescuing from your situation? And have you ever experienced that rescue and felt the joy of someone coming through for you BIG Time?

Well a couple of weeks ago that was exactly how I felt. Our church, The Roots Community was in a bind, real bad. We owed $3000 in rent to our leasing company and we didn't have any money.

A kind gentlemen offered to donate a $1,000 matching grant if our community would come up with the other $1,000.

God Came Through BIG TIME!

In a matter of a week, between our community and many of our generous prayer partners we raised $1,900.

All I can say is WHOOHOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Thank you so much to all of you who prayed and gave financially. Our God is BIG and Faithful!

I am so humbled to be a part of God's work in Central Florida as we seek to plant the gospel.

Many have asked, "what are you going to do about July's rent and the following months?" And I think that's a great question. Obviously, it goes without saying...we're gonna keep trusting in the Lord. But, we believe that through the ongoing spiritual growth of our community and their increase in giving regularly, with the daycare leasing our facility, and with other contributing factors we're confident that God will continue to provide for us.

____________________________________

What Else Is Happening At The Roots?

Let me introduce you to The Podraza Family:
(Tracy, John, and Paul)

(In this picture Paul just graduated from Seminary at
Beeson Divinty School in Birmingham, AL)

Several months ago I received a phone call from Paul. Through a mutual contact he became aware of what we were doing in our community. Paul and Tracy had been praying about their next step in life since he had just graduated from seminary and they knew that God was calling to them to something new away from their current church in Alabama.

Several weeks ago they visited with us for a week and prayed about the opportunity to join us in helping to lead The Roots Community. Paul and I began a conversation about what it might look like to partner together as Co-Pastors to lead The Roots Community to where God was calling her.

Since then, we have sensed God's Spirit leading us to partner together. Both our families are very excited about seeing what God can and will do with us as we seek to plant the gospel together.

Currently, Paul and Tracy and looking for employment (that provides insurance benefits) in order to make the move down here. They have already sold their home and are currently looking at various homes in the area to rent.

I hope that you will be praying with us for the Podraza Family as I know they will be a blessing to our community.

Paul will continue to update us on a weekly basis as to their progress in finding employment and a home.

On a personal note: I am super excited about Paul being a Co-Pastor with me. I have needed someone like Paul for a long time now, and he brings the exact skills and attitude that will complement me perfectly.

Meet our "New" Connections Pastor

As many of you know, Karen Brooks and her family moved with our team of friends to this area from Palm Beach County to be a part of the church plant 2 years ago. When Karen and I served together on staff at our previous church she was the Programming Director which came with a ton of responsibility and she was very good at what she did. So naturally, when she joined our church it was a simple decision to have her be in charge of the Sunday morning program. Since June of 2008 she has made sure that everything happens on Sundays. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate her and all of the efforts to make our worship gathering is the very best that it can be.

As any organization grows it must shift and transition. This is one of those opportunities. In the recent months many of our leaders have taken what's known as the "Strength's Finder" by Gallup and something amazing was realized. We began to understand that we are gifted with certain strengths and would best serve the church if we operated within those strengths.

I came to understand that Karen's strengths are in the realm of relationships and we had a very large need within our church to help new attenders feel welcomed and assimilate into the life of our church.

Naturally, I began to pray about who would lead us in this area. It soon became very clear that Karen Brooks was perfectly suited for this role and so we began to discuss this opportunity. Recently we have been designing our assimilation strategy and planning to ensure that each new attender at The Roots is welcomed and followed up with so that they have the best possible opportunity to partner with our church.

So, from now on even though you might see Karen running around on Sunday mornings still doing alot of the production for our worship gathering she will also be spending much of her time helping new people at The Roots connect with the life of our community. So, if you get an email or call from her inviting you to The Bridge event or to Starting Point, now you know why.

Next time you see her, give her a hug and thank her for how she serves our community. I plan to.

I hope to see you this Sunday at The Roots Community Church.

I know that you may have some questions and I am always here to answer them at your convenience.

Below you will find my contact info:

The Roots Community Church is currently meeting at
8681 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Suite 122 in Kissimmee, FL 34747.

You can visit our website for more info:
www.TheRootsCommunity.com

Blessings,

Jesse Carbo

My Personal Cell: 407-257-1717
Church Office: 407-465-5517

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

1. STARTING POINT (RETREAT STYLE FORMAT) JULY 23-24
Starting Point is our New Partners Course. If you are interested in becoming a
Partner with The Roots Community Church then this course is for you. There is no
obligation to join our church when the course is through.
(Limited Childcare is Provided-Contact us for more details)

2. NO BRIDGE EVENT SCHEDULED FOR JULY!

3. LABOR DAY COOKOUT & BAPTISM! (SEPT. 5TH)
Get ready for the cookout of your life! It's a neighborhood extravaganza with
plenty to do for the kids and lots of delicious cooking from our master chefs.
We will also be celebrating together as several our baptized!

PRAYER REQUESTS:

1. The Podraza Family. That they find work with insurance benefits soon so that they can moved down here and join us at The Roots Community Church.

2. Please pray that God continues to send us financial partners as He meets our needs on an ongoing monthly basis.

3. Pray for the salvation of many with whom we are planting seeds of the Gospel.

4. Pray for the new believers in our church that our growing in their confidence in Jesus Christ.

5. Pray for Holly (a single mother in our church) that is currently looking for housing. Also pray for her 3 children and her new baby due in the Fall.

6. Pray for Miranda and Adrian. They are getting married at the end of this month and pray that Miranda continues to have a healthy pregnancy.

2010-06-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Roots Community Newsletter
You Belong Here...
June 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Friends,

Tonight, as I sit here writing this letter I am deeply burdened with the many needs we are facing as a country, in our counties, in our city, and even in our own community.

From the BP oil spill to the financial and relational crisis that many are having at home these are tough times in which we need more hope than ever.

At The Roots Community Church we are seeing more and more people experience the Hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and we are learning to put our confidence in God alone.

I really appreciate you taking a few moments to read the rest of this message.

On many levels we are all facing great challenges financially.

If we were to face these troubles alone it can become overwhelming.

But Together, we can make a difference and overcome!

Scripture gives us an amazing example of what a community can do to overcome financial challenges:

2 Corinthians 8:1-9
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints-and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. But as you excel in everything-in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you-- see that you excel in this act of grace also.
I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.

In this passage we see a community overcome through great financial strain. What was their motivation to give, even when they had so little? The Gospel of Jesus Christ. It was because they had experienced the grace of God in their lives that they were so willing to give, not out of obligation but out of a willing heart, with joy!

If we understand the grace of God, then we understand what it means to receive something of value (God's Love) even when we don't deserve it. God's grace does not make sense. It's not earned, deserved, or worked for. We get it, freely-apart from anything we do. Praise God!

Because you care about the Roots Community Church please continue reading:

To this point in the life of our church you have generously given enough money to cover the expenses. In February we moved into an amazing facility in Vista Del Lago and we knew that God had given us this building because of the way that many people gave financially to get us started with moving in. But now it's our turn to honor God with the gift He has given us.

It's time to step up our giving in order to make sure that we can continue using this amazing building as we seek to honor God, share the gospel, and serve the community.

As of June 1 (Rent Due Date) we were not able to pay the rent. On June 16, we made a partial payment of $500 (full payment is $3000).

I am confident that God will supply our needs. I am asking you to consider that He wants us to come together and generously give.

AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY: This week an anonymous giver gave us a $1,000 matching gift. If we can come up with $1,000, he will match it towards our June rent.

So, what can you do, right now?

1. Pray about what God might have you give towards the matching gift opportunity to cover June's rent payment.

2. Pray about what God might have you do in order to increase your giving on a regular basis at The Roots Community Church.

Are regular consistent giving must increase or we will not be able to meet the basic needs of the church. We can do this! I believe in you.

Consider this passage from Scripture as you pray:
2 Corinthians 9:6-14 (The Message)
Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving.
God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you're ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. As one psalmist puts it, "He throws caution to the winds, giving to the needy in reckless abandon. His right-living, right-giving ways never run out, never wear out. This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God."

This Sunday you will have an opportunity to give financially and if you cannot be there this Sunday, you can give online.

I hope to see you this Sunday at The Roots Community Church.

I know that you may have some questions and I am always here to answer them at your convenience.

Below you will find my contact info:

The Roots Community Church is currently meeting at
8681 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Suite 122 in Kissimmee, FL 34747.

You can visit our website for more info:
www.TheRootsCommunity.com

Blessings,

Jesse Carbo (jessecarbo@gmail.com)

My Personal Cell: 407-257-1717
Church Office: 407-465-5517

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/rootschurch

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/rootscommunity

2010-05-19T08:45:00.001-07:00

Partners in the Gospel

2010-05-13T16:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

As you are aware, Anitra and I have been planting the Gospel in Central Florida for the last 2 years and it has led to the plant of a church called “The Roots Community Church” (www.TheRootsCommunity.com)

We have seen so many people’s lives changed by the power of the gospel and we are thrilled to continue this work here.

Many or you and people you know have partnered with us in prayer and financially to make this a reality.

Today I am asking you to prayerfully consider partnering with me. As of late we have lost nearly $2,000 a month in financial support. There are various reasons for this but the point is that we need to make this up if we are going to continue our work in Central Florida.

You get to have a stake in the lives of people’s eternal destiny. If 50 of my closest friends would give just $10 a week that would make up the difference. I know that for some of you this might be a huge sacrifice. And I want you to know that I don’t want you to stop giving to your local church. I would however ask you to consider giving up a meal out or whatever you might blow $10 on each week.

I believe in the sovereignty of God and I believe that He will provide. It may be through you and it may not. But right now, you have an opportunity to consider partnering with Him and The Roots Community Church to see many people hear and respond to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

If and when you decided to take us up on this opportunity just click on the donate button at the top of this page which will lead you to Paypal.

You can give one time, weekly, or monthly. It’s up to you. But please consider doing something.

The gospel will go forth, join me in making this a reality for many in Central Florida.

Waiting on Him,

Jesse Carbo
Isaiah 64:4

P.S. If you have any questions please reply to this message or call me at 407-257-1717.

SINGLE MOM LOSES EVERYTHING!

2010-05-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the news reports about the flooding in Nashville? Maybe not, because they are reporting it muchs these days. But, in case you didn't know here is a link that shows you more:
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/05/flooding_in_tennessee.html

Video reporting the news in Nashville:

The Exchange with Ed Stetzer, 05-04-10 from Ed Stetzer on Vimeo.

So what are we to do? Well, Scripture is clear that we are not to be passive. So, in honor of Mother's Day and for sake of His name we are partnering with a local church in Nashville to help a Single Mom and her kids. She was devastated by this flood and we are going to take action and serve. More details to follow soon...stayed tuned as you have an opportunity to contribute to this cause.

Jesse Carbo
lead pastor
www.therootscommunity.com

2010-01-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

Our CHURCH is Moving!

Dear Friends,

I have some really important news for you, so please read this entire blog!

WE'RE MOVING, WE'RE MOVING, WE'RE MOVING!

As many of you know we started The Roots Community Church in our home last Easter 09'. Since then we have moved to the KOA Kampground Rec Center and it has proven to be a wonderful starter home for our small church. There has been many occasions where each seat was taken and we were out of space to accommodate new people.

This began a quest for us to find a larger home that would accommodate for more families from our community. But, locations for churches to meet in Davenport are not in abundance as the infrastructure for this community has not caught up yet with the number of people that live here.

In December I was put in touch with Steve and Bill Leary through Duke Real Estate about a Shopping Center they own that has a 4,400 Sq. Foot store front church on US 192 about 2 mile east of US 27 in The Shoppes of Vista Del Lago. When I heard about this opportunity I went over to meet with them and take a look. I was informed about the financial responsibility of this kind of a lease and knew right away that if this was going to work it would have to be a "God" thing.

So here is what God has done so far:

1. The landlords have agreed to take more than 1/2 off of the original lease price.

2. Carrie Milstead (Roots family member) will be opening a DayCare in the new facility.

3. Funds for the initial move and expenses were raised in one month's time.

4. The location of the building is in the center of our target outreach zone.

5. The former church has donated over $15,000 in equipment for us to get started.
(ex: Chairs, Video Projectors, Lighting, Curtains, Office Equipment, etc...)

I wish I had time to tell you all the little things that have been going on behind the scenes that have proved to me over and over again that God is in this. It has been truly amazing to see Him move in the midst of us. We are so blessed.

So, this Sunday...January 31...will be our last Sunday at the KOA.

Beginning on Sunday, February 7th at 10AM (same time as before) we will hold our worship gatherings at the New Facility:

8681 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Kissimmee, FL
The Shoppes of Vista Del Lago.

So, now that you know that we are moving...what do we need you to do?

HOW YOU CAN MAKE THE TRANSITION SMOOTH:

1. Make sure you come to the first service in the new building on February 7th at 10AM!!!

2. Bring some friends and family members. (Our new children's area is going to rock!)

3. Pray about how you might start or increase your financial commitment to The Roots because this new building is a step of faith.

4. Pray for you friends who are far away from God...consider how this new space
might be the perfect place to invite them, so that they can hear about God's love.

5. Consider how you might get more involved in The Roots by serving on Sunday mornings as a Greeter, Usher, Media Arts, or Children's Ministry Volunteer.

I would love to hear from you in the next couple of weeks. If you have any questions or concerns please email me at jessecarbo@gmail.com

WE WILL SEE YOU THIS SUNDAY @ THE KOA FOR OUR LAST WORSHIP CELEBRATION IN THAT LOCATION AND NEXT SUNDAY, FEB. 7 @ OUR NEW LOCATION.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE HAPPENINGS AT THE ROOTS COMMUNITY CHURCH, CHECKOUT OUR WEBSITE

WWW.THEROOTSCOMMUNITY.COM

Would you hire me?

2009-11-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Would you hire me? If you have ever had the opportunity to hire someone you know that it’s an awesome responsibility and comes with a lot of rewards especially when you have hired the right person for the job. Not only does your team function properly but also you look really good because you made the right choice. Friends, I am the right person for the job.

Today, I am asking you to hire me. “Hire you for what?”, you may be thinking…well, I am asking you to hire me so that I can continue spreading the gospel in West Orlando (Davenport, FL) on your behalf. You can directly be a part of the mission of God from right where you are. You have an opportunity today to make sure that people continue to hear the amazing grace of Jesus Christ. You have the opportunity to make sure that there is a community of people who are out serving the homeless, the poor, the needy, the hurting, and those that need a community of love.

As the lead pastor of The Roots Community I make it my #1 priority to train and equip people to BE the church and not just PLAY church. Here is an excerpt from our vision document that further explains what we see and what we are creating.

Our Vision at the Roots Community Church is...to see the grace of God transform our lives so that we would have the mindset and will in the midst of pain and discomfort to love all people for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

(IF YOU WANT THE BOTTOM LINE - SKIP DOWN TO THE BOTTOM)

Vision Expanded:

Nothing happens without it first being thought up or dreamed. The Eiffel tower was first a dream before it was built. The United States of America was first an idea before the Constitution was drafted. The Universe was God’s idea before He actually created it. God has birthed a dream in us to plant the gospel in the Central Florida region near Davenport, Fl and the Four Corners.

-I dream of a church where people are aware of the weightiness of their sin and the enormity of God’s love thus making the cross loom large in their lives.
(A Gospel Centered Church)

-I dream of a church where it’s people are loving, accepting, and hopeful.
(A Grace Based Church)

-I dream of a church that is creative in it’s approach to contextually preaching the gospel.
(A Creative Church)

-I dream of a church where it’s people “live sent” amongst the community creating opportunities where people can encounter a relationship with God for the first time or rediscover Him again. (Local Missionaries to the neighborhoods, schools, work, etc...)
(A Sending Church)

-I dream of a church that is a family as they adopt one another expressing the deepest and most ancient value of all…Love.
(A Loving Church)

-I dream of church where it’s people are discovering ways to serve in the kingdom of God.
(A Serving Church)

-I dream of church where leaders are being equipped so that they can influence the world with the gospel of Christ.
(An Equipping Church)

-I dream of a church that seeks to plant the gospel in other regions of the county, the state, the nation, and the world through church planting.
(A Multiplying Church)

-I dream of a church that builds a community center for the Four Corners Region. This building would be completely open the public and for their long-term use. It would be our gift to the community and a gathering spot for our weekly celebration time.
(A Selfless Church)

-I dream of a church that is one. With diverse economic statuses, racial divides, political agendas, and denominational organizations there is much to keep us apart. But the call of the kingdom is unity in Christ. I see black and white, Hispanic and Asian, rich and poor worshiping the One True God together.
(A Multi-Ethnic Church)

THE BOTTOM LINE::

So in order for this to be a reality, I need time. Time to put my hands to the plow and work very very hard as we join God in His mission. When you hire me, this buys me time to be about the Father’s work. This gives me the resources needed to take care of family and at the same time meet the needs of our community.

We have created a program to make this easy and affordable. The Twenties Club is the opportunity that one of my pastor’s and I dreamed up one afternoon as we realized that the burden of our entire financial need is too great for just a few to carry, but if many carried a small portion than the impact could be exponential.

Would you consider sending me $20 a week to further the mission of The Roots Community? I understand that in these tough financial times everything is tight and so if $20 is not do-able at this time than I would certainly appreciate anything you could afford. I know it sounds ridiculous but I would even appreciate $1 a week.

Here’s the hard truth: If I can’t raise the financial support needed to sustain the financial need for me and my family than I am prepared to work for a local company to earn a wage that will make up the difference. In case you are wondering, I have done that before and am ready to do it again. But, statistics show that when a pastor works a full time job and tries to plant a church at the same time the results are often devastating as one man can only do so much. That is why I need you to hire me!

Below you will see a PayPal button where you can make your first contribution to the Twenties Club. Each week you will receive an updated newsletter informing you what is happening at The Roots. I really do appreciate your considering this and welcome any kind of input that you might have. Whether or not you can participate I covet your prayers and thoughts.

Any gift whether weekly, monthly, or even a special (one-time) gift is much appreciated. Thank You in advance for all you do and for taking time to learn more about what God is doing at The Roots Community Church.

Because of Jesus,

Jesse Carbo
863.800.0547 - cell phone
jessecarbo@gmail.com
www.therootscommunity.com

Most Dangerous Place in America! By: Dave Gibbons

2009-09-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

The Most Dangerous Place in America

Yes, the situations in Iran and North Korea continue to give concern to us and our government, but when it comes to our own backyard, where is the most dangerous place in America?

New York City.

Detroit.

Baltimore.

Chicago.

Los Angeles.

Large cities such as these have received a lot of attention as havens of crime, disorder and mayhem. I don’t want to argue that. Sure, violent crimes and societal concerns seem common in our concrete jungles.

But how about cities like these:

Irvine, California

Lake Forest, Illinois

Plano, Texas

Ellicott City, Maryland

Irvine, California was recently given the title, “Safest City in America” (over 100,000 people) by the Federal Bureau of Investigation on June 1, 2009. I would like to submit that suburbs just like this may actually be the most dangerous places in America.

The Burbs
The suburban enclaves with their middle class citizens and well- manicured lawns, gates, and guards protecting our Orwellian lifestyle and toys, Starbucks a few minutes apart from each busy intersection, and boasting some of the best schools in the country may actually be the most dangerous locations to live. Okay, we may not have the high murder counts or robberies, but I wonder if the suburbs have become breeding grounds for the accessible and shallow thrills of drugs and alcohol abuse, extravagant parties and proms, and mere facades of happiness and the American Dream. Just ask your local city drug dealer about his primary consumers. . . suburban teenagers and college students.

Okay, I’m not a researcher, but my gut impression from my travels and intersection with youth in the major cities of the world as well as the suburbs and rural communities is that they are all equally dangerous but just in different ways.

The dangers of the suburbs entail the lack of imagination (where do you find real art museums, innovative music venues and creative opportunities to explore nature. Sure there are exceptions but it’s not the norm); materialism; greed; isolation behind cookie-cutter neighborhoods and homogeneous clubs and churches; boredom: apathy; the fascination with the relevant more than the real; a love affair with popularity more than loving the poor; and a thirst for excitement superficially satisfied in the Friday night party. This takes precedence over a dangerous ride with God on the frontlines of His movement.

Ironically, guess what consistently is the hottest selling music in the suburbs? Hip Hop! Seriously. . . check out this article from Wall Street Journal in June of 2005. http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB111521814339424546.html

Why do you think Hip Hop is so popular among Suburban youth?

Hip hop is a voice to which suburban kids want to relate. Perhaps some wannabe has a type of connection to reality through Hip Hop while others envision radical change and revolution, inspired to be at the forefront of a new generation of leaders who will not remain silent. It’s a type of music that breathes with the vibe of danger and rawness. Although you may not like the themes at times or the language, It’s honest and from the soul.

My concern is that our children are missing out on one of the greatest moments to live in the history of humanity. These are the times of global shifts and crises and once-in-a-life time opportunities. Our generation and the next can be so focused on our own survival and the satisfaction of pleasure that we miss out on one of the wildest adventures. Hip Hop music has become the voice of our youth. It describes a thirst for danger and a rawness that is visceral. It’s filled with angst and pain. These elements are the seeds of revolution found in the cities. My prayer is that the intrinsic frustration and boredom in the suburbs and rural cities of America will find its purpose in a radical revolution of love.

Perhaps instead of a one-week mission trip, the next generation will commit to a lifetime of roaming the earth in the power of the Holy Spirit like has never been seen before. Sure, our cities have been the focus of the church, but let’s not forget the quiet suburbs– the current breeding ground of potential zealots who are looking for something more to awaken them out of their boredom.

In response to what I wrote above my teammate, Dave Brubaker wrote: The verse I love for this (if you want one)—Luke 12:13-21. It really could be about the suburbs, the guy is so rich, he’s afforded the luxury of ISOLATION. He’s so alone in his gated community that when he needs financial council he has no one to confer with but himself (verse 17); he’s so out of touch with the poor and needy, he can’t think of a single person to share with when he’s got extra. The only idea that comes to mind is to make bigger barns (verse 18). Apparently God finds this so detestable, he kills the guy (verse 20), the words “your life will be demanded from you” are actually a financial term re: collecting a loan; in the case the “loan” that God is collecting is “life.”
Easy to judge this guy as a “fool” but the truth is, isn’t he “successful” by suburban standards???

Third Culture

2009-09-04T15:41:00.001-07:00

Third Culture Video - Short from Newsong Church on Vimeo.

Down From The Mountain

2009-08-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

So I have been home now for 2 days from our vacation in Costa Rica and I wish I could return. I haven't felt this low and unmotivated in a long time. I guess you could say that we have returned from the mountaintop to the valley and I am feeling it. There is a phrase that Costa Ricans (Ticos) live by..."Pura Vida" and it means "Pure Life". It would seem to me that in Costa Rica this would be manageable. The Pure and Simple Life is easily attainable in the culture that we experienced, or so it would seem. But life here back in the states often seems like "Complicada Vida" (Complicated Life). With financial pressures, cultural lifestyle pressures, starting a new church, managing our relationships, raising kids, meeting the needs of others, personal time for God and yourself, the list could go on and on...you get the picture...it can get comlicated sometimes.
This last week in Costa Rica has led me to think a lot about what I do and who I am. I spend a lot of my time running around spending time with people but I often find myself giving myself away, often when there is nothing left to give. I came to the conclusion that I do not spend enough time in study, in prayer, and simply just putting away distractions. I allow distractions in my life for fear that I might miss something Big or Important. But, I am learning that these distractions are merely distractions from what is really important. I am missing what is important. I need to be a man of prayer and study. I should be devoting much more time to thinking, reading, writing, and teaching. It's a call back to Pura Vida. A simple and pure task for what I should be doing in life.
What would Pura Vida look like for you?

Prayer Request

2009-03-20T14:03:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

The Roots Community has arrived at a crucial time in it's life. We are ready to launch publicly. God has allowed us the opportunity to partner with Him in His mission and it has been beautiful.

We are currently facing an opportunity to see God work in powerful ways and I would like to invite you to join me in asking God for favor with Haines City.

We are looking to rent a permanent facility in the downtown district of Haines City, Fl and the city is trying to stop us. I have a meeting on Monday, March 23 at 2PM with the powers that be. I am asking for you to pray that day for wisdom, discernment, favor, humility, and love. This is a leadership challenge for me personally. I have never had to do this kind of thing before. Rest assure, I am not afraid! I am confident in my Jesus that He is there with me and that the Holy Spirit will go before me.

Our desire at the Roots Community is to serve the people of Haines City, including the government officials. So, needless to say, we are not looking for a fight. Although it may be within our "right" to have a church in that city...we do not want it to resort to some type of legal action...this would not prove to be a good way to start serving the city.

So, please pray that God would move in a huge way.

Know this too. We are not assuming that the building IS God's will. We believe in the Revelation of God's will and that He will in His time reveal his vision for us, step by step. We are called to obedience, one day at a time. If this is not where He wants us...we will still be apart of advancing the gospel in that community (See Paul's example in Philippians 1:12)

So, because you are my dear friends and family I thought I would ask you to pray. If you have any questions please feel free to ask.

Coveting your prayers,

Jesse Carbo

P.S. Feel free to advance this email to anyone you think will pray for us.

2009-03-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

I am re-posting a blog that my coach posted on Friday. It was incredibly powerful and really convicting. Please take a moment and watch this:

Penn & Sharing Christ
I know the video we showed on Sunday has been passed around a lot, but I want you to watch it again now. While you do, wrestle with the question how much do have to hate someone to not share Christ with them? Not much. You just need to love your comfort, convenience, reputation more than you love that person. Feeling convicted? Good you should take comfort in the fact that you are God’s child and that he will discipline those he loves. “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.” (Revelation 3.19) Let me give you 3 practical ways to be zealous and repent:

1. Begin to intercede for someone who is outside the faith.
2. Invest humbly and authentically in their lives.
3. Invite them to join one Sunday during our Practical Atheist or on Easter Sunday, April 12th.

Thanks for your friendships and partnership in the gospel.

2009-03-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

This week my youngest daughter turned 1. Can you believe it? Just 365 days ago my wife and I were welcoming Rylee Isabella Carbo into our world. We are so blessed with 2 girls. As you can see they are just beautiful, they have Anitra's "looks." (Look out boys, they are not available until at least 30 years of age). Each year my kids (and that's four of them) experience one of my wife's parties with a central theme...this time my youngest daughter got a party with a garden theme. There were flowers everywhere. It was beautiful. But what was most beautiful was the birthday girl. I am a proud daddy and so happy that God has blessed me with a wonderful wife, two amazing sons, and two beautiful daughters.

Thank You Jesus for the amazing responsibility of caring for and raising such a precious thing as a child. You have blessed me 4x over and I do not take it for granted. I humbly receive this blessing and beg you to help me be who you are calling me to be as a husband, father, and friend. Heavenly Father, show me the same kind of love you show to your children, that I may give that kind of love to mine. And Holy Spirit, may I reflect the image of Christ for my children so that they may fall more in love with Him everyday of their lives.

School Me!

2009-02-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone,

Been awhile since I have blogged. Sorry bout that. Will give you some amazing stories soon, but for now wanted to let you know about an opportunity that you can take advantage of. Many of you cannot afford to financially support me and my family in the church plant but you may want to do something tangible. On the right side of my page you will see a link to my Amazon.com WISHLIST. Here I have placed several books that I would like to read. If you feel led....School Me!

Love you.

Jesse

2009-01-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

Have you ever suffered for Jesus? Really? Well, tomorrow morning I am going to suffer for Jesus as I drive 10 hours to Pigeon Forge, TN. I was invited to preach at a youth retreat. I get to bring my family and enjoy the painful opportunity of spending time in the Great Smokey Mountains, in the cold, where it snows. Whew! It's gonna be tough...but someone has to do it. Sure glad it's me. Oh yea, and my friend Mike and his family will be suffering with me.

2008-12-09T18:27:00.000-08:00

I spoke at a funeral yesterday in memory of Donny Foster...a 20 year old college student at the University of Florida who hung himself in his room just one night before taking his girlfriend to a local concert and just 21 days before Christmas with his family in Miami. No one really knows why he did this...he seemed to be a happy kid and who apparently had more than his share of friends...based upon the turn out at his funeral. I was extremely moved by the gathering.

Here are some things I observed through this experience and I would like to share them with you. First, I was amazed at the amazingly deep love Donny's friends had for him. He certainly had an incredible impact on them. I hope my life has that kind of impact on others around me. Second, I was encouraged by the hopefulness of his family in the midst of such a tragic death. His parents and sister were very optimistic about his eternity and current presence with Jesus. Third, I was burdened heavily with the spiritual emptiness I saw in the people at the funeral. Death is a strange thing...it brings out the true essence of our soul. You can see in an instant the spiritual side of a human being and know what they believe. I saw people, especially young people, who were scared...but too proud to admit it. I would love the chance to impart hope to more people. Hope that gives us the courage to face death at any moment. Hope that allows us the freedom to let go of that which doesn't last. Hope that builds our faith upon a foundation of eternal living.

Thank you Jesus for the opportunity to be apart of this deeply spiritual experience. I was honored to be the messenger on behalf of the family. I pray that the seeds of hope and truth will take root in the souls of those that listened.

2008-11-25T15:33:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day! Wow! What a concept, but what a hoax. We pick one day out of 365 and say "This is the day to be THANKFUL"...well, the truth is that when I come home to my "less than joyful" family I don't have warm fuzzies of being thankful for all that I have...therefore I enter into this crazy spin cycle of feeling guilty for not feeling so "Thankful" at the one time a year that you are supposed to feel thankful...

Ugh! Well, what am I to do with this? I have pondered this dilemma for the last 24 hours...and the thing that hurts me the most is that whenever I come home to Miami and visit with my family, I don't feel good, there is a lot of negative feelings that come out of me. I always feel upset, hurt, depressed, impatient, frustrated, annoyed, and yes...none of them are good feelings. I know, this is crazy. I mean, not to mention the guilt I feel for being a "pastor" and moving to a community to live in other people's brokenness and I can't event deal with my own broken mess...

I often feel that when I am around my family, I am not myself. I hate the fact that I like myself better when I am not with them...I find it hard to be who I am around them. I don't have the same passion and zeal for life or the motivation to play and be fun. I feel so blah! Is this an evil spirit...could Satan and his evil empire be at the heart of this...or is this all my fault (just bring on the guilt)? At the end of the day, I know that it is my responsibility to control my feelings and behavior. But it's just too damn hard!

So, here it is just a couple of nights before the Big Turkey Day when we all give thanks to the proverbial thanksgiving gods, gorge ourselves with tasty treats, and feel good about the few days of R&R that we enjoy before another year comes to an end as we open presents and realize we are too broke and over indulged for our own good.

And...

I don't FEEL thankful...but, I am thankful. I choose to be thankful because God's grace allows me to choose being thankful for the many amazing things in my life over being ungrateful. In my flesh, in my sin, I am ungrateful...I cannot without God's grace choose gratefulness but because of His love for me...I am thankful.

Lord, I find it so much easier to be thankful (in my flesh) when I am not with my family. Help me to put my confidence in you (Jeremiah 17:5-9) so that because of your grace I might choose thankfulness over hopelessness...I am thankful for You!

No Pain, No Gain!

2008-11-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted a blog in awhile, but I just wanted to let you all know that lately...I have been learning a lot of lessons. They have been shaping my character, my leadership, and my vision for the Roots Community. These lessons have also come at a mild cost...but you know what they say, "No Pain, No Gain"! More on the lessons learned, soon...

2008-10-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had my coaching appointment with Chan Kilgore, the pastor of Crosspointe Church in Lake Nona (Orlando, FL). He is also the Orlando area visionary for Vision 360, the church planting organization that is our umbrella for finances, training, and encouragement.

I want to briefly share with you an encouragement.

When Anitra and I first arrived here in Davenport, FL we were clueless as to what it would take to plant the gospel in this community. Actually we are still clueless in many ways. But about 3 months ago God in His mysterious ways, organized it in such a way that I would have a coach. But, not just any coach...the best coach. God saw it to be for my good that Chan Kilgore, would coach me and Anitra through this process of planting the gospel and all I can say is 'Thank You Jesus"!

For a while I was struggling and wondering what was going to happen. But God is faithful. For sometime I was wavering and watching to see when God would make His move. But God is faithful. It took alot of patience and internal emotional struggle, but God is faithful.

I share this with you because yesterday, after my meeting with Chan I was sharing with Anitra how blessed I feel to have such a great coach. In 15 min of time with him I learn more about the gospel, Jesus, and the ways of being the church in our community than I have ever learned from anyone else in the past.

Some things that you may not know but would be interested in learning: Anitra and I decided to begin attending Crosspointe Church each Sunday until we launch our church on Sunday morning. We are going to serve there as well, right now it looks like we might be serving in the kids ministry (not a stretch for us, since I was a Family Pastor and we have 4 kids of our own). Also, The Roots Community has launched 3 small groups in different neighborhoods. Please be praying for us as we seek to reach out to others.

Leading Leaders.

2008-10-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

So this role I have been entrusted with as the Lead Pastor of a church plant called The Roots Community (www.TheRootsCommunity.com) is a blessing but a very heavy blessing! I am faced with the challenge on a weekly or almost daily basis of not just leading people but leading leaders. It's one thing to round up regular people who want to follow someone, but it's a totally different thing when you are motivating and vision casting for a group of people that are leaders in their own right.

Almost 9 months ago a vision was cast for several leaders about an idea to move to a new city and do a new, fresh work of God for the kingdom. Over time these leaders began to make plans and move the pieces of their life around to get on board with God's agenda. It was all very exciting. Today, The Roots Community has an amazing group of leaders that serve each other and this community. I have often referred to them as a Super Team. Honestly, I am dumbfounded as to how it all happened. Am I a leader of leaders or is God up to something bigger than my abilities?

That is the real issue here. Could God be up to something so big, that even my own abilities and gifts matter so very little? Has He gifted me? Sure. But, if God needed my gifts and abilities, then as a broken, sinful man I would be tempted to think that it was my doing. And if we are going to make room for God to do miracles than that means we have to get out of the way.

I was reminded of this tonight at our impromptu staff meeting. I called a staff meeting because I needed to get my leaders back on track with where we are headed with an upcoming event. Many of us had lost focus and let the other important things in life get in the way of what we were doing, better yet, what God was doing. So the night before the staff meeting I spoke with my coach (Chan Kilgore) and I asked him how I should approach this meeting. He gave me incredible wisdom and insight. He said "Jesse, the purpose is not to pull off a great event...it's to grow people" I left that conversation feeling so encouraged, because I knew that the most important thing for me was to keep my eyes on the bigger picture that my people mattered more than the details of that event we have been planning.

Now, I must admit...leading leaders is tough. Leaders are smart, opinionated, thinkers, and often have their own agenda. Our staff meeting did not go as I had envisioned it, but one thing did go right. I led. I led them to see what the BIG PICTURE is all about. Transformed Lives! If we are doing our first event as a church for this community and it's not about seeing Transformed Lives...than we are wasting our time. Our meeting ended on this note. And so now...my leaders have a choice. To follow, or not to follow.

You see, leading leaders is not about convincing people to do what you want. I learned that it's more about following God. At our meeting, in front of my leaders, I believe that I was able to cast a vision...a vision about partnering with God in seeing transformed lives happen in this community. And whether I do it solo or with 100's I will continue to follow God in that mission He has called me to.

John Maxwell says that 'leadership is influence', and although I believe that is true I want to leave you with this thought. My experience so far is this...I am a leader of leaders, but God has done all the influencing.

Pulling the Plug!

2008-10-13T11:09:00.000-07:00

My friend and church planting counterpart just wrote a blog about disconnecting. I totally sympathize with him in this matter. This is a very real issue for me and Anitra as we both have "jobs" that seem to be very difficult to Unplug from. Anitra is a full time mom and wife and I am a full time pastor/church planter. Even though I don't have to "work" all the time...it's always on my mind. In my head I am always working. Anitra on the other hand...it's not just in her head..it's always before her. We love our kids...but boy they are demanding. We have a 7 month old that requires constant attention and a 2 year old that is more capable to do things on her own but is in that stage where she craves mommy's affection ALL THE TIME! We both need to learn how to Unplug! I think that Anitra more than me has the weaker hand in this situation because at least I can get away to the Panera Bread (where I am now, typing this blog) and think, pray, read and clear my head for a moment. My wife is attached...plugged into a life of relentless care and nurture for some children (and a husband) that we love so much but are always there.
So, what do we do?
We know that this part of our life as parents is just a stage, and a very important one at that...but we are still human...I mean, my wife is still very human and even though she is a Super Human, she still needs to Unplug. I am so frustrated because I think I know what that looks like for her, but she does not know what that looks like...Well, why not? Maybe, because it's been 9 years since she has regularly unplugged from the "job". She speaks of getting a paying job in the workforce world...is this just a ploy to "unplug" while earning some cash. That would be nice...extra cash is good. But, isn't the real answer finding a solution for her to unplug from the most important job she holds now...wife and mother.
Well, as a community here are some WALLS we have hit on a personal level...

1. We've hit a wall in our marriages
*It's a blatant reality that every marriage hits walls from time to time. It's painful and hard to bust through the walls we face. This church planting journey has helped draw us closer in our marriages but has also produced some walls...Jesus, give us unity...

2. We've hit a wall spiritually on an individually level
*The spiritual adrenaline has worn off! We no longer have any Jesus Juice to keep us motivated and excited...you can see it. So what do we do? Well, God's timing is always perfect. A small Brazilian church planter, humble and shy, shared with me and Kevin last week a timely word from the Lord. We must operate from a Word of the Lord being revealed in our life, because cleverness will only take us so far. Jesus, speak to us...
(Yesterday, God spoke to me through the Book of Haggai, read it)

3. We've hit a wall emotionally
*Our emotions have been running at an all time high since June. Even before then, because this whole process of making a BIG decision to pack up and move was no small emotional process...So, now the emotional roller coaster has begun...it would seem that almost anything could send us spinning for a double loop on the coaster of emotions...which of course if we can't get a grip emotionally, than that affects our spiritual energy and the marital energy needed to maintain balance. Jesus, make us Happy...

So what does this have to do with Unplugging?

It's in the unplugging that we find the rest we need in Christ to maintain the balance, regain the energy, and re-dream the vision that God has given us for this church planting journey.

I have heard it said "Absence makes the heart grow fonder"...and I have found this to be true. When my wife took a trip to Miami 2 weeks ago to be with her family, I found myself really missing her and wanting to be with her. Without that momentary "Unplugging" I would not have had the opportunity to experience the Joy of Plugging back into the flow of our marriage when she returned. The down time gave me what I needed to appreciate the role that we play in each others life.

Is it okay for us to unplug or is that just an excuse for laziness? Well, let me point out some biblical principles: 1. God rested on the 7th day after creating the universe in 6. 2. God established the law of the Sabbath day which is a day of rest. 3. Jesus got away for 40 days to fast and pray (Matthew 4) 4. And even before his crucifixion he went to a garden to disconnect and pray.

Let us practice the spiritual discipline of unplugging. Don't feel guilty, don't beat yourself up, and don't over spiritualize it....Just get away, on a regular basis and unplug.

Lord, may in our times of unplugging be refreshed and re-energized so that this great mission you have entrusted us with might be carried out with gusto and enthusiasm. May we not be bored, or tired, or burned out...so that we can carry the torch of your love to the four corners of our city and world. Make us marathon believers, enduring until the end, that we might be saved.

Thank You Kevin for starting this conversation...it was good timing!

TRUNK or TREAT!

2008-10-08T22:39:00.000-07:00

It's time for "Trick or Treating". Regardless of what your views are on this pagan holiday, the fact is that many, many, many families will venture out on Halloween night with their kids knocking on their neighbors doors (many of whom they know not) and ask them for candy. We live in an interesting community where almost 2/3 of the homes in our development are empty. So as you can imagine this will make fore some disappointing candy time for the little kids...BUT, we have an idea!

On Halloween, The Roots Community Church is hosting their first Community Wide Service Project called "TRUNK or TREAT". Basically we are going to try and get as many cars as possible to come and decorate their trunks, pick up beds, vans, etc...and then pass out candy. It provides a safe and fun environment for kids to trick or treat and gives us as a church the opportunity to love on people.

So, why does this matter to you? WE NEED YOU!

What can I do? (You might say)

COME with your car, decorate your trunk and pass out candy!

We are looking for 200 cars to come and pass out candy. We believe that we could possibly have the WORLD'S LARGEST TRUNK or TREAT! You could be apart of History in the making!

Date: Friday, Ocotber 31

Time: 6-8PM (ALL Participating Vehicles must arrive at 5:00PM)

What: Provide Vehicle and Candy!

Location: Highway US 27 @ Webb's Candy Store/Dunkin Donuts in Davenport/Haines City

Need more info: Please email me at creativecarbo@yahoo.com

If you are interested in this great opportunity please reply to this post with your name and phone number. Thanks.

PLEASE READ MY BLOG BELOW ABOUT "SOCCER AND THE GOSPEL"

Soccer and The Gospel...

2008-10-08T20:31:00.000-07:00

I coach soccer for the Northeast Polk County Soccer League. I have the privilege of being my youngest son's coach. My oldest son is also on a team, but they have a much better coach. I am so proud of my two boys. They work so hard to play well, run hard, and impress me with their every move. I played soccer in High School and I love the sport. I am extremely overweight and can hardly keep up with the little kids, but no matter how out of breath I am, it's fun! The best part of last weekend is that my youngest son Kobe scored his first goal. It happened so fast that he didn't even realize what had happened. My older son Eli, is doing a great job too. I got to watch his game after my game was over and I saw him hustle and out play most of the other team. Who knows, maybe we have future professional soccer players in the making? Either way, I love my boys and am having so much fun...and a side note...well, coaching has been the best thing I have done so far in this church planting thing. It has created a collision point for me in the community. I wear the coaches uniform every Saturday and it gives me instant relationship with several families. I have been praying each week about how God might use me to plant the gospel in the lives of those people I meet every week.

So last Saturday as I was coaching my "grasshoppers" (ages 4-6) how to kick, pass, and shoot the soccer ball when it dawned on me! Church Planting is very similar. As a church planting team we have to master the basics of church before we can move on to the fancy footwork that we are always so rushed to do. I watch kids each Saturday try to balance the ball with their feet and do as many tricks as possible, but all that doesn't matter if they can't pass it to one another and score goals. In the end, the only result that matters is if their team made more goals than the other team. In church planting we as a team must master the skills that fundamentally get us goals or wins. So what is a win? A win in church planting is when we see someone who doesn't know Jesus, become transformed by His love and begin growing in their desire to treasure Christ more and more. It's not just about reaching one person, but as many people as possible. When this happens on a regular basis than we are doing the real work of church planting which is really planting the gospel. So what do we do when we feel the urge to have fun and do the fancy footwork with the soccer ball...well, there is nothing wrong with a little fun and even I like to keep the ball in the air with my feet, but eventually the ball has to come to the ground and a goal has to be made if we are going to win the game! I have realized that even with my team, which is comprised of an amazing group of people, we need a coach to blow the whistle every once in a while and remind us of what the purpose is. I know that right now our team is like my grasshoppers. The ball still feels kind of awkward. Scoring goals seems impossible. Paying attention to what's going on in the other soccer fields sometimes seems more appealing than what's going on in our own game. But, in the end...the more we practice and stay focused on the fundamentals, the easier it will become. We will begin to graduate from the grasshoppers to the juniors and seniors level of competition, and soon we will be scoring goals and taking names...

Matthew 16:18
"...and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hell will not overcome it."

"Lord, at this stage of the game...help us as a team to focus on the fundamentals first. Give us the courage to trust you and know that one day we will get to a place where we will be scoring goal after goal. Give us the faith to watch you work in our lives and in our community."

Temptation...

2008-10-01T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's midnight on Wednesday and I am here at home
contemplating the concept of temptation...

Tonight, I was tempted!

I was tempted to break my 30 day fast from Coca Cola
(I have 7 more days to go).
I bought dinner for the boys, Megan, and Mary...
and instead of just getting the pizza and wings, I thought...
"I bet they'll want something to drink"
so I bought some Coke.
The truth is I hoped to be able to have some too.

As everyone, including my children argued around the table whether or not I should be allowed to have some...I quickly poured a tall glass of that delicious beverage into my favorite cup.

At that moment I felt this deep sinking feeling in the pit of my gut.
It was the realization of my human brokenness.
It had risen to the surface of my soul and I felt disgusting.

In that moment, this simple beverage was like a harlot
or a drug to me. Now, I don't believe that Coke in of itself is
evil, but it's affect on me is.

I told Mary that I wouldn't drink that tall glass of delicious, mouth watering, taste-bud satisfying coke until Danny Best called me back. Well, after several attempts to reach him he finally connected with me around 10PM. Needless to say, I was suffering.

It was precisely at that moment, that I had an epiphany!
What am I doing?
I am calling a grown man, to ask him permission if I can have some coke...am I crazy? Yes!

On one hand, I am grateful for friends like Danny that are there for me to talk me off of the "coke" ledge, but on the other hand...
I realized that I have a lot more battling of unbelief to go through.

Here's my point:
When we are tempted, we are challenged in our system of beliefs.
What do you believe about God? This is challenged when we are tempted.
What do you believe about yourself? This is challenged when we are tempted.

In truth, what we do with temptation is a revelation of what we truly believe about something. If I had succumb to the temptation of drinking that coke tonight, then it would have revealed that in my heart I believe that the pleasure of drinking that glass of empty calories is better than abstaining from it for healthy reasons.

I accepted this 30 day challenge 23 days ago, believing that something as simple as a beverage has no control over me, and today I am looking at myself in the
mirror wondering what I really believe.

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness for 40 days by the devil. Why could he overcome? Because He believed in the Father and all that he promised.

It's so easy for us to trust Christ for our eternal life,
but it's so hard to trust him for our earthly life.

Jesus, thank you for eternal life, but grant me the grace to make it through this earthly life...not just to "get by", but with a kingdom mentality and a supernatural joy...all for your glory, because you are better than Coca Cola!

What's Your Status?

2008-09-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you about an amazing worship experience I had last night. I visited 'STATUS' a ministry to college students and 20 somethings out of a church called Discovery Church. ( I went to meet up with some former youth who attend there regularly) I was amazed at the amount of students that were present. It was encouraging to see nearly 1,000 students participating in an amazing worship experience. Let me say though, that I felt completely out of touch with youth culture. You see, I have been a youth pastor for the last 14 years...but I think I am still stuck in the 90's. There is this new thing called "Emo" and well, I am not "Emo".
Well, once the music started I thought I was at a 'Coldplay' concert. The band was tight and everything they did was with excellence. I was really impressed. The speaker was Jeannie Stevens who is married to Jared Stevens. This was a treat, because not only is she an excellent communicator but I have had the privilege of serving Jared during an event in Chicago. She spoke about Waiting on God. Boy, have I learned a lot about that. She gave a convincing and encouraging message that would move anyone to Wait on God as He fulfills His purposes in our lives. It was a great reminder to me, that Waiting on God is the BEST place for to be. After her message the band led us in an extended time of worship...WHOA! It was off the chain! (I know, that's not an Emo thing to say...I told you I wasn't cool) We sang, shouted, danced, and sang some more for 30 min and it was awesome. I know that in heaven there will be 24/7 worship of Jesus the King, and I also believe that it will be different that what we think. There will be worship styles of all sorts. All I know is that in heaven, I will be at the Emo stage, a lot! It was great. If you live in the area and would like to check them out, visit their website for more info: www.whatsyourstatus.com

On a side note...I had another chance last night to sit with some old friends from Miami and just catch up. I love it when God orchestrates it in such a way that we are blessed with these kind of friendships.

Thank you Lord for all you do. Thank You Lord for who you are. Thank You Lord for last night.

It's so early...and I'm so tired!

2008-09-28T01:03:00.000-07:00

So it's 4 am on Sunday morning and and we had an eventful evening at The Roots Community last night. I can't sleep and I'm not sure if it's the Ravioli that I had at midnight, or if it's all the stuff on my mind.
Matt Burks (The Roots-Executive Pastor) and I interviewed 2 potential people for the Children's Leader position and it went really well. Simply put, I posted an ad on Craigslist and you wouldn't believe the turnout and response. I had well over 50 people inquire about the position. This was way more than I thought would even care. I feel as if the two candidates are good matches for us, but we can only choose one and that could be difficult. Pray for us.
Also...last night at Roots we had two new visitors. It's interesting because we aren't even advertising yet. But, what happened was...Derrick, Chuck, and Nadine our youth miniistry team were at the local Bookstore and they met this couple. After a conversation with them they were invited to come and visit Roots. They showed up and really enjoyed it (so they said). The really interesting thing is that they both were homeless. This couple had lost their home due to some terrible circumstances and were forced to live in their car. They had some income coming in, which helped to provide them with food and other essentials for living. At the end of the night, we asked them how we could serve them, and immediatly the woman said, "I need a shower". Wow! I was humbled, that her greatest need at that moment was a shower. I truly expected to hear, "Money" or "Food" or "Place to live"...but what they wanted the most from us was the opportunity to take a shower. Well, I knew that we could certainly help them out with that. Within that next hour they were showering at one of the Roots community homes. They were so blessed by that shower, but the real blessing was providing them that shower. This couple was extremely humble, loving, generous, and committed to Jesus. I hope they come back next Saturday night to Roots and I pray that they become connected to the Roots Community. I feel like we can learn alot from them. One last thought: As the story unfolded last night with this couple I was impressed in my spirit with the fact that...these are the people that Jesus would have walked with when he was on earth. Thank you Lord for trusting us with this couple. Thank You for giving us an opportunity to serve them and love them. Thank you for showing us how good we have it, even when we feel that we have nothing. Goodnight, I'm going back to bed!

Gripped!

2008-09-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

It's about 4:30 in the afternoon on a Saturday and I am about to leave to be with my Roots Community. I am Gripped by many things that are stirring in my soul. Are we getting Soul Naked before the Lord and each other? This is where we experience the deepest level of intimacy with one another. Have we developed a Holy Discontent for how many people are lost and missing out on a joyful experience with their creator? These are some of the things that I am wrestling through... with, and for my community. Tonight, I have a chance to preach, have a conversation, say words...that will in return...hopefully...encourage them towards deeper affection with Jesus, passion for the lost, and whatever else God has for us. Pray for me, pray for us, pray for yourself.

2008-08-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

So I totally suck at this blogging thing! It's been like "forever" since I have written...well actually since August 9th. I need help with designing a better blog, so it's looks pretty! Mine is not pretty. More to come...sometime.

My time in the MIA (Miami).

2008-08-09T22:39:00.000-07:00

THIS BLOG POST IS DEDICATED TO
MS. PATSY MILLS.

SHE WENT TO LIVE WITH JESUS ON
AUGUST 4th, 2008.

SHE WAS A MENTOR, LEADER, and ROYALTY!

So, I just got back from Miami and I had an amazing time. It was not fun, but nonetheless it was full of "God Moments" and it was also the weekend that my wife turned yet another year older, which means that we are only a few days away from our 13th year wedding anniversary. So when I say it was not fun, here is what I mean. I had the amazing opportunity to speak at a funeral this afternoon. This week my elementary school principle passed away from a long battle with health issues. This lady was an incredible person who was relentless in her pursuit of Jesus, children, and excellence in education. She was truly an icon. I had the honor of doing the closing prayer because I am a pastor and alumni of that school (King's Christian School). Another great opportunity, because of the funeral, was that I got to see many old friends, from my childhood. Many of the these people were adults in my life that had a great impact on me. It was a blessing to see them and to hug their neck and thank them for pouring into my life. I would not be here today if Southwest Community Church had not been there for me as a child.
And yet another God moment was...(drum roll please)...as we are planting this church we are certainly dependent on others to financially partner with us. Anitra and I have taken the attitude that God is our supply, not people. But God hand picks people to bless us and provide that which He desires. Today, we received 2 checks from people who want to support us. It was nearly $1,000! GO GOD! I am once again infused by the joy in the Lord because of His promise to always take care of the ones He loves (Matthew 6).

Proud of her...

2008-08-03T22:56:00.000-07:00

So my friend and ministry team mate has just finished a 40 day fast at midnight tonight. I just wanted to say that I am proud of her and have been inspired and encouraged by her faith. Thanks for being so committed at such a difficult time. You are a blessing to me and my family.

The Unexpected...

2008-07-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight Anitra and I went to a dinner with all the other pastors from Vision USA (the organization we are with for church planting). The unexpected happened to me, and because of it I am grateful. A husband and wife church planting team whom I have never met prophesied over me and this has never happened to me, needless to say this whole prophesying thing has always been looked at with a skeptical eye. But here is what happened...
As I began meeting different pastors and their wives in the room I was introduced to this couple from Puerto Rico who moved to Orlando to plant a church near the Mall of Millennia. We instantly had a connection simply because we both speak Spanish and began to share the commonalities between our cultures...We shared our stories of how God led us to this place in our lives to plant churches in this community. Before I knew it and I am not real sure how the conversation transitioned to this they both began to speak "spiritually" into my life. They said that they saw me in a prison...what? A Prison? They said that even though I was still imprisoned by my circumstances that I was ready to explode with the kingdom mission to spread the gospel to people, even those that would be my enemies...The wife then told me that I need to continue to walk in Humility and Love. I was baffled why she would choose "Humility" but it's all so clear now...the couple prayed over me and blessed me.
Here is what's so crazy...yet so much of a God thing. On the way over to the dinner tonight I was telling Anitra about this dream that I had last night. My dream took place in a prison, and my whole family was there with me. It was bedtime in the jail and I was putting my kids and wife to bed, stressed and worried about their safety and welfare I stayed awake keeping my eyes open to see if there was any danger. Soon after that 3 men approached me and wanted to fight. I began to fight one of the men, and as I was overtaking him (which in real life would never happen, because I am a wimp) I began to preach the gospel, loudly and fiercely, but also with many tears in my eyes...as I screamed and shouted "Jesus loves you" the man and his two friends repented and were saved. At this point my dreams ends, but all day I have been moved by this dream, because I don't dream often.
Tonight, I never told this couple anything about my dream until after they prophectically spoke into my life.
What does this mean? Since I have been here in D-town, we have had multiple cicrumstances that feel like we are bound up and in prison. There is so much to share about this but the point remains...that we have felt constrained in various ways. But tonight I now know that God is about to break us free from this prison and that we are ready to move forward in the Spirit with power and confidence and that as I walk in humility and love God will use me to overcome evil and bring Shalom to D-town.
I have been walking for the last 2 months with a spirit of defeatedness and imprisonment. Tonight that is over. I might have circumstances that bind me up and frustrate my physical realm but I am called to walk in the Spirit. Tonight I am freed up to do that which God has called me to do , and it's not by my strength but on His power and might that I will be victorious and break free from these prison walls.
I am resolved to hear the voice of the Lord and to march forward for the sake of His kingdom and His Glory. If you are reading this I pray that God might bring others into your life to prophesy over you...

2008-07-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

Today, I did one of the hardest things in the world for me to do...I had to humble myself and apologize to some men that I deeply respect. More apologies to follow this week...

2008-07-12T23:28:00.001-07:00