johnlaeger.com

Sunday Mind Dump

• Highest attendance since being in our new building!
• Between our Good Friday Service and today's Easter Services, 7 people gave their lives to Christ! I LOVE IT!!
• TONS of new faces!
• Our volunteers really out did themselves today! We've got the greatest volunteers!
• The opening number by our band and tech team sent shivers up and down my spine!
• And that was nothing compared to the opening number for next week.
• Had a man come up to me after one of the services and say, "Thanks. That's the first time I've been moved to tears in a church service."
• We really didn't pull out anything special today. It was pretty much what we do every week. Every week is Easter at Meadow.
• I love reading all the status updates on Facebook after our services - and Facebook was pounded with status updates from our Good Friday Service and today's Easter service! Wow!
• This week we turn up the level of intensity even more as we ramp up and then kick-off "Building the Dream". I am so PUMPED for this spiritual growth emphasis.
• In the next 6 weeks, you can count on miracles, hassles from Satan, spiritual stretching, faith growing, and friendship strengthening to happen.
• Six weeks from today, you will look back and be able to see how God has stretched you and grown you in ways you never thought imaginable!
• Did you see Kevin Ware break his leg in the Duke Louisville game? It was INTENSE and GRAPHIC! My leg still hurts from seeing that!
• Check this video out and GET READY ... Building the Dream Trailer
• Next week is the BIG reveal of all we plan on doing in the remodel of our building. You will LOVE it! And you will see it first at Meadow!
• The buzz about Meadow is LOUD and its all because you are talking about all the excitement and what God is doing!
• I LOVE my church!
• This next month marks 19 years I've been on the fire department. I'm one of the old guys ... slower and very out of shape.
• I hand write notes to all first time guests and with all the first time guests from Friday and today, I'll be getting writer's cramp.
• NEWS FLASH ... next Sunday is "Photo Bomb" Sunday. We want you to use your cell phones to take pictures & video of everything that happens on Sundays at Meadow and post them to Facebook. Let's show the Facebook world all that happens at Meadow!
• Its a crazy fun idea but Meadow is a crazy fun church and we do crazy fun things!
• I am REALLY tired but wired high because of what God has done, is doing, and will be doing at Meadow!
• Just to repeat what I said this morning...you don't want to be late next Sunday. The opening number will have you saying with a smile, "Are they supposed to do that in church?"
• I would appreciate your prayers over these next 6 weeks. "Building the Dream" is going to be significant in our spiritual and relational growth and that is one thing Satan does not want to happen. I know he has me in his cross-hairs. If he can discourage me and get to me, it will affect the entire church.
• Anybody else loving this warmer weather? Anybody else looking forward to fishing season?
• Okay...that's about it.
• Oh - one more thing ... next Sunday is going to be one you will never forget! Make sure you here on time and invite someone to come with you!
• Later!

Sunday Mind Dump

• FanTASTIC morning! Wow!
• Ran out of programs! Packed the auditorium (85% full!)! People standing in the hallway!
• 5 AWESOME baptisms! One special child dedication!
• And did you see the "Building the Dream" trailer video? Just you wait for the "big reveal" on April 7th!
• Here's the link to the video. Watch it and share it! "Building the Dream Trailer"
• Are you ready?!
• 25 people made commitments to fasting over the next two weeks!
• 30 people signed up for the Building the Dream daily devotionals!
• 114 people will be participating in the 15 day prayer journey the next two weeks!
• I LOVE my church!
• I totally believe God is doing more at Meadow right now than He ever has before!
• Can't wait for the Good Friday Service this Friday - 7:00 PM - absolutely pumped about the worship planned and the dramatic narration of the crucifixion and death of Christ.
• Thanks to Tim Friesen for using his bobcat to open up several more parking spaces that had large piles of snow on them!
• Thanks for Gary Oliver, Mark Flickinger, Marv Shaffer, and LaVern Johnson for setting up and getting the bapticuzzi all ready!
• Our volunteers absolutely ROCK!
• So freakin' out of my mind excited to share all the details of our remodeling plans! The video just touches the surface. Everytime I watch it, I get more excited everytime I watch it!
• This past week we got a few 3D images of the remodel plans. Wow! I wish I could show you now! But I HAVE to wait until April 7th.
• Next Sunday - Easter - is going to so rock! I am speaking on the new freedom that Jesus brings because of the resurrection.
• I'm inviting friends - are you!
• April 7th! April 7th! April 7th! April 7th!
• If you weren't here this morning or forgot to sign up for the Building the Dream Daily email devotional - email me and let me know and I'll sign you up! They start April 8th.
• Keep watching your email and mail for more great news and updates on Building the Dream!
• I've been having some awesome quiet times...finished up reading the minor prophets and now reading Matthew. God is challenging me in HUGE ways and I'm loving it!
• Anybody else tired of the snow? Yeah, yeah, yeah...I know...I need to chill out because I live in Minnesota - but I'm ready for spring and fishing and working outside.
• Just in the last hour we have had over 325 views of our Easter ad on Facebook! And the number goes up by the minute!
• If you haven't gone to the Meadow Facebook page and "shared" the Easter "Arise" pic - do it now and spread the buzz!
• Here's the link ... Meadow Facebook Page
• Who are you inviting to Easter next Sunday? - start inviting them now!
• Later.

Get Ready for Building the Dream!

Last July, we took a HUGE step of faith and purchased the vacant Chaska REX movie theatre building. In one short month, we did some minor remodeling. Then in August of last year, we permanently moved into our first building and began services there. Since then…WOW…God has been bringing us amazing growth and it is time we get real serious about enlarging our auditorium and creating MeadowKIDS and MeadowYOUTH space to accommodate and make room for more growth!

We are just three short weeks away from “Kick-off Sunday” on April 7, when everything will begin to be made very clear and very, very exciting.  We are calling it “Building the Dream.”  And we believe this will be the greatest investment any of us have made in building God’s kingdom at Meadow.

A lot of work, planning, and meetings have already gone on for “Building the Dream” in preparation for April 7 and I can hardly wait!  I really believe we are about to enter into one of the most challenging, faith stretching, and rewarding times in our life as a church and in your life as a follower of Christ!

As we get closer to “Kick-off Sunday” on April 7, there are three critical things I want you to be aware of.

First: This coming Sunday is “Party Sunday” where we will be celebrating with several individuals as they are baptized! These are always always always HUGE Sundays for us. In addition to the baptisms, we will be celebrating child dedication, and our band will lead us in some awesome worship!

Second:  This coming Sunday we will also be showing a short preview video of the unveiling of what we have planned for our building.  We are calling this a “teaser” as it will give us just enough of a taste to “tease” us into great anticipation! On Sunday, April 7, we will show the full video of all our plans!

Third:  In addition, we will be distributing a 15 day Prayer Guide that will take each of us on a private prayer journey each day leading up to “Kick-off Sunday”.  The key to the success of this faith challenge will be prayer.  This 15 day Prayer Guide will prepare us all in the final days before a time of vision and overwhelming excitement. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you will not be here this Sunday and want a copy of this 15 Day Prayer Guide, email me at john@meadowspring.org or send me a Facebook message and I will email it to you!

I cannot encourage you enough to be here this coming Sunday to celebrate baptism, receive the 15 Day Prayer Guide, and for the video preview of “Building the Dream”.  We are planning on this Sunday being packed and powerful as we prepare for what God will do in us individually and as a church “Building the Dream.”

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via phone or email.  Or call and set up a time when you could come in and we can talk.  I would love to share with you in more detail what God is doing and what we believe He can do through us all coming together.

Watch Your Mail & Email

It's news that will PUMP YOU UP!!

We are standing at the threshold looking at what will be one of the most if not the most challenging, faith stretching, and awesome seasons in our history! I am out-of-my-mind excited about this! And I believe you will be too as you start to hear all about it.

We're calling it "Building the Dream" and the first letter should be in your mail tomorrow (Tuesday). There will also be an email sent so check your email!

(If you don't get a letter in the mail and an email from me by Wednesday, let me know. It means we don't have your address or correct address.)

Sunday Mind Dump

• Four words...I - Love - My - Church!
• John P knocked it out of the park this morning!
• Tim's leading of worship was outstanding! I have no idea how he hits some of those notes!
• I am seriously the luckiest and most privileged pastor on earth because I get to lead this awesome church with this awesome staff!
• And yes...I AM PUMPED about Meadow! And a pastor who isn't in love with the church he's at and the people there needs to have his head examined!
• Had several new guests again today - love it!
• Marriage series might be over, but the reality that there are hurting marriages is no understatement. Now comes the time to apply what we've heard.
• Place was packed - again! Our expansion and remodel will not come too soon!
• We have got some HUGE news to share and will give all the details in ... 3 weeks!
• BUT...there is a mailing and email going out this week to start sharing - WATCH YOUR MAIL and CHECK YOUR EMAIL!!
• This news will be "jaw-dropping" awesome!
• Can't believe Easter is only two weeks away!
• I can't say it strong enough ... Easter is an opportunity God gives us to invite our friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors to church! Let's not waste this opportunity!
• Things are going to start getting totally intense this week as we start ramping up for one of the most challenging and faith stretching periods of our history!
• Next Sunday is Party Sunday and we've got people getting baptized, parents dedicating their child, and worship that will raise the roof!
• AND...I get to preach again for the first time in a month! I'm ready to do it NOW!
• Had some great Meadowites over after church today. I love hanging and talking and laughing with Meadowites!
• Blizzard coming?! Bring it on!
• Got home from church today and the plate of chocolate chip cookies on the table was gone and for once it wasn't my fault! (It was the dog's fault!)
• I finished up reading through the minor prophets in my quiet times. Wow! There are some challenging truths there. It's given me enough to chew on for a while!
• We've got to pray big time that God will use Easter to challenge us and draw many others into a refreshing relationship with Him!
• One of the things I love doing is reading all the Facebook status updates of people talking about Meadow.
• I'll be blogging more frequently starting this week to communicate what God is doing at Meadow.
• Its not until June - but this past week I confirmed a very special Father's Day Sunday message. One that I've always dreamed of doing. I know it will be faith stretching for us all!
• I want to pray for the friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors you are inviting to Easter. If you will text me at 612-616-7982, I promise to pray for them that they will come.

What You Will Experience on Good Friday at Meadow

Without question, I am so freakin' pumped about our very first Good Friday service on March 29th at 7:00 PM. We are still working on some of the details but today we (staff & Leadership Team) decided to repeat one of the most moving communion experiences we've ever had at Meadow.

Some of you might remember an experience several months ago where I narrated the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus while images were projected up on the screen. This experience helped all of us relive as close as possible what our Lord went through. This experience resulted in more positive and life-changing comments than any other communion experience we've done at Meadow.

This is what you will be experiencing at Meadow on Good Friday. (We will be making some adjustments to the images to make them more acceptable to young children.)

I can't encourage you enough to come and to invite your friends to come with you. You, and those who come with you, will experience a moving and refreshing time of remembering the price Jesus paid. You, and they, will also experience inspiring worship and hear a clear explanation of why Jesus had to die the kind of death He died.

Whether this will be the first time you've experienced this or the second or third, this will be a Good Friday you will never forget.

Friday, March 29th at 7:00 PM...a night that will change your life.

 

Three Things I Want You To Know About

First...Party Sunday is March 24!

If you have never experienced a Party Sunday at Meadow - you have yet to experience what a PUMPED UP celebration can be like! There will be lots of music and worship, baptism, and child dedication! If you are interested in being baptized or dedicating your child, reply to this email ASAP and I will answer your questions and give you all the details! PLUS on Party Sunday, we will be giving you an exciting taste of our dream for what we will be doing to our building to make it an even better place for us and our community! Trust me, you will not want to miss this!

Second...Good Friday Service, 7:00 PM

For the first time in our history and largely because we now have our own building, we are having a Good Friday service and it will be one you will never forget! There will be inspiring worship, a dramatic & visual message on Christ's crucifixion, and communion. I am personally so pumped for this service and how we get to focus on the sacrifice Jesus gave and price He paid for you and me. There will be no child-care or children's program during the Good Friday Service. Feel free to bring your children into the service with you, just keep in mind the intimate focus and serious nature of a Good Friday Service.

Third...Easter Services, 9:00 & 10:30 AM

We treat every Sunday like its Easter, however on March 31st, we are not holding back at all! We will be celebrating the greatest event in human history with pumped up music, a great personal story, and a refreshing message about the freedom Easter brings us! We're having two services at 9 & 10:30 AM and we are depending on you to invite your family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. Easter is one of the few times during the year when more people are open to an invite to come to church! Let's pack out both services and take advantage of this opportunity God is giving us! Who are you inviting!

One More Thing...

I can't say much now, but the Sunday after Easter just might be the craziest and most "wow-est" Sunday ever at Meadow! You will hear more about this later but for now, mark it on your calendar as a "The only way I will miss this Sunday is if I'm dead!" Sunday!

Sunday Mind Dump

• Felt SO great to be back at Meadow after a week off!
• I LOVED our vacation! Great time to disconnect and relax and just hang out with Sandy.
• That's one of the main reasons I love to go on cruises - it forces me to disconnect from email, phone, etc.
• Spent A LOT of time napping, resting, reading, and listening to some of my favorite preachers.
• So thankful for a church and a staff that allows me to get away and makes it possible to disconnect.
• Both Rachel and Pat really brought it last week and today...wow...they had some challenging things tot say about marriage.
• I am totally looking forward to John Pennucci's message next Sunday on dealing with conflict in marriage.
• You know... Gary Oliver really rocks! He is there bright and early every Sunday morning to put out overflow parking signs and to unlock the building. Thanks Gary!
• Had a great meeting after the service with Growth Group leaders and a team of people in planning on what will be the most exciting and challenging period in our history.
• You will hear A LOT more about it starting in two weeks (March 24). Hold on to your britches because these next several weeks are going to be absolutely the best you have ever experienced at Meadow!
• Thinking about doing a "Best of..." teaching series this summer. What messages and Sundays would you like to "re-hear" this summer.
• I love my wife - seriously...next to my relationship with Jesus, she is the light of my life!
• Had more new guests today to add to our packed out auditorium! THAT is so cool!
• Trust me...you are going to LOVE our plan for remodeling the building giving us more room and more dedicated space for kids and youth!
• And I'm not going to pull any punches here...it's going to cost us and all of us together will need to sacrifice to make it happen...BUT - I am convinced we can do it!
• Party Sunday is in two weeks and we already have several people interested in baptism - its going to be another rockin' celebration!
• If you are interested in baptism - let me know!
• Can't believe Easter is only three weeks away! Who are you inviting?
• AND...I am really looking forward to our first ever Good Friday service (7:00 PM)
• This week, the intensity of things at Meadow and planning on the "unveiling" of our remodel plans is going to hit about mach 5!!
• But I have three words for that intensity! ... Bring it on!!
• Mark it on your calendar....in just over 3 weeks you will see and hear about the most awesome plans that will absolutely knock your socks off!!
• Last...let me know if there is or are specific messages or Sundays you would like to "re-hear" this summer.
• Later.
• Oh...one last thing...send the link to this mind dump on to 5 friends and let them read about all that is going on at Meadow!

Sunday Mind Dump

• I think I say it every week, but... wow, oh wow, oh wow! This morning was seriously off-the-chart freakin awesome!
• Today might have been the best Sunday ever at Meadow.
• We were 85% full in the auditorium and that includes setting up the extra chairs AND we still had a few regular attenders volunteer to just hang out in the hallway!
• Our next option? ... Maybe hanging chairs from the ceiling?! Ha!
• Seriously, our remodeling will not come too soon and in just six weeks, we will be revealing all the details - I can't wait to explain it all!
• Started something new today - video stories and today's was nothing short of awesome!
• We will be posting these videos online so keep watching.
• Had a new guest post this on her Facebook page ... "Wow, did I do something cool this morning! They turned our town's movie theater into a contemporary church. You sit in the theater (cup holder for your coffee, of course) with big screen, incredible band, comfy seats, warm and welcoming atmosphere. And look, they give all first time visitors a popcorn box containing a bible, worship info, and microwave popcorn! Still humming the music. Wonderful weekend!"
• And...check this out... she mentioned to me that her post has already encouraged two of her friends to come with her next Sunday!
• The new chairs worked AWESOME!
• Sandy & I are leaving for a week of vacation this next Saturday and I HATE being away from Meadow but I really need this break.
• Yes, we are going somewhere VERY warm and will be totally out of contact which will force me to relax and set aside church and just focus on being with Sandy.
• Had an amazing meeting this past week to nail down the design of the new auditorium - I really can't wait to show and tell all we are designing.
• This week we will be nailing down the design of the MeadowKIDS Center, the MeadowYOUTH Center, and our new Fellowship Center.
• Had some major technical issues this morning, but our band and tech team pulled it off! Thanks to  Dave and Pat!
• Nursery was PACKED! I have so much appreciation for the MeadowKIDS volunteers in there - they have a level of patience I just don't have!
• Sandy has the Oscar Red Carpet on ... oh yeah (can you hear my excitement)
• But based on what the preacher said this morning, we probably should watch this instead of what I want to watch...The Walking Dead.
• I probably spent an hour today just looking at the pics and reading all the status updates of those who were at Meadow today. I LOVE it!
• My daughter (Jessi) moved home yesterday. It will be good to have her home - she brings so much brightness and laughter to our home!
• LOVED meeting all the first time guests today!
• Tara Berg survived her first week on staff as Adminitrative Assistant. I'll be easy on her for a couple more weeks, then it gets serious! :)
• We are putting together a mobile "app" for Meadow which will make watching videos, listening to messages, giving, reading a free Bible, and more - a lot easier.
• Should be up and running in a couple weeks.
• We introduced the largest single group of new members this morning - THAT is awesome!
• I have never been more excited about ministry as I am today and yes, I really do love my church and believe every Sunday is going to be smokin' awesome!
• Here's my question for you...I'd like your opinion on this: Our remodel, realistically, won't happen for several months. What do you think is the best action to take before then to give some relief to our full service? ... Should we go back to two services? Should we start a video venue in another theatre or the lobby? What do you think? Write your suggestion on Facebook and let's solve this problem together!

Sunday Mind Dump

• PACKED - and once again proved the church experts wrong that people stop coming once you reach 80% full!
• Had to set up extra chairs!
• Had "Pizza with the Pastors" after the service and had the largest group of new people we've ever had in our history for a "get to know the staff" event like this!
• We REALLY need the remodel...NOW!!
• Loved talking to and meeting all the new people at "Pizza with the Pastors"
• Worship & communion were awesome!
• Offering was through the roof!
• Had another great focus group meeting with the architect this past week. Now we are ready to start putting all the ideas into a first draft design.
• We've got $30,000 worth of chairs being donated! Yes, I really did say $30,000!!
• Marriage series starts next Sunday. Check out the video trailer HERE.
• REALLY looking forward to this series and each of the staff taking a Sunday to teach the one message on marriage they would love to teach.
• Booked a vacation to someplace really warm and totally out of touch with reality.
• I love Meadow and hate to be gone, but I need this vacation. Sandy & I need to get away to just be with each other without any kind of distraction.
• My daughter got a new job closer to home so she is moving home this next week...so much for being empty-nesters!
• I do like having her around. She really brightens up the environment!
• Welcome Tara Berg to the Meadow staff!
• Speaking of the staff...I am so honored to be able to serve at Meadow with our staff. They truly love Jesus and love the church - and with that combination nothing will stop us!
• And don't forget our awesome volunteers - best I've ever partnered with to do ministry!
• Started wearing contacts again this week & the best thing about wearing contacts is all the cool sunglasses I get to wear now!
• Easter is only 6 weeks away. We will probably do at least 2 services to accomodate all the people who will be coming.
• Next Party Sunday (baptism) is March 24 and I am already PUMPED to celebrate through baptism those who have made commitments to follow Christ!
• I can honestly say that Meadow is alive and a place where God is changing lives and doing things bigger than any one single person.
• This church is so not about me.
• I've been getting my elbows dirty in the kitchen cooking and baking - kind of enjoying it and yes, I proudly display my man card as I cook in the kitchen!
• We are welcoming new members next Sunday and I think we are welcoming more new members in one Sunday than we ever have! Woo Hoo!
• NASCAR kicks off next Sunday with the Daytona 500. Go #14!!
• I am truly loving ministry right now and I KNOW the next few months are going to be absolutely AWESOME!!
• Actually I've never been more optimistic and pumped about the future of Meadow than I have now.
• I LOVE my church!

Sunday Mind Dump

• In light of the weather, I was VERY pleased with the crowd today.
• Had an AWESOME focus group meeting with the architect to discuss the new auditorium. This...is...going...to...be...so...cool!
• I am amazed at the unity of everyone who is giving input for our remodel - even the architect was amazed at how we work together and are on the same page.
• I am so proud of our volunteers on a day like today when others can't make it and they step it up to cover so all ministries are manned.
• My time alone with God in the minor prophets is really cool! It's like a breath of fresh air.
• We've got a whole bunch of people who are joining the church. We'll recognize them on Feb. 24. I am PUMPED!
• Are you sitting down for this one?! ... This past week, we had two people (who don't even attend Meadow) donate 150 chairs. These chairs sell for $200 each! That's $30,000 worth of chairs!! And they were basically donated to us ...yes...I said DONATED!!!
• We will use these chairs in the lobby, in the auditorium for extra seats, and in an overflow venue we are working on.
• We are exploring setting up a second venue in another theatre where we would broadcast the service via video. This will open up even more seats in the auditorium plus create a unique worship experience for more people!
• Booked a vacation this week. I am so stocked about what God is doing at Meadow and I hate to even think of missing a Sunday, but I can feel my energy draining and I need a break.
• This vacation is one where I will be completely out of contact but I have absolute confidence in our staff and leaders to lead the ministry here. I will rest easy knowing things back home are okay.
• We have scheduled a capital campaign for after Easter and we are in the planning and preparation phases right now. Things are getting real exciting and intense for me - another reason I need to get away for a break before it picks up speed to about mach 5!
• This campaign will be all about building the dream we've had for years - seeing it become reality!
• We changed up our eating about a month ago - basically eating a lot healthier, no fast food, no wheat, eliminated pop and pretty much all sugar - I've lost 12 lbs so far! Bring it on!
• BUT...lots of bacon, steak, eggs, chicken...and even Famous Dave's is still being consumed - I LOVE eating healthy!
• Got our next focus group meeting this Tuesday with the architect to talk through MeadowKIDS, MeadowYOUTH, and fellowship areas. Gonna be another exciting night (Tuesday) - We'd appreciate your prayers.
• "We're Married...Now What?" starts in two weeks. This will be a unique teaching series for us on marriage as each staff person will teach for one Sunday. Each staff member will be teaching the one message on marriage they have always wanted to teach - gonna be AWESOME!
• Something is haywire with our wireless signal in the auditorium and our "moving" lights are inoperable. Rats...gotta get that fixed - might be a software issue that needs upgrading.
• The worship set for next week already has me drooling! Plus we are celebrating communion - this is going to be an awesome Sunday! (But then - every Sunday is awesome at Meadow.)
• Oh...AND..."Pizza with the Pastors" is after church. We get to hang out with some of the newer Meadowites!
• I have never been as excited and pumped about ministry as I am right now! And each week, it only gets better!
• I LOVE my church!

Sunday Mind Dump

• This was one of the best Sundays EVER at Meadow! Wow!
• We were 95% full and once again proved the church experts wrong.
• We (staff & leadership team) have already started discussion of what we can do to free up more seats.
• One idea that keeps coming up is to send a video feed to the lobby for overflow.
• Our remodel will not come too soon!
• Speaking of remodel - I am stoked that we have hired Bauer Design Build to design and build our Phase 2.
• It really is not an option. We NEED to remodel so our new building does not prevent people from coming!
• Got a message that even our overflow parking was full! Wow!
• Had another great membership Class 101. A bit smaller than the last one which is nice because it allows for more interaction.
• One thing I don't like about the first Sunday of the month? No bagels!!!
• Band was totally off-the-chart today! Wow! Not sure they can get any better (but they  usually prove me wrong!)
• Sandy & I are planning a vacation to somewhere warm and relaxing. I really hate to be away from Meadow but things are going to get real intense in the next several months and I need to get away before it all comes!
• We've got about 60% of our adult attendance involved in Growth Groups!! That is so awesome!!
• Had more first and second time guests today! Love it!!
• One of the elements of our remodel is to enlarge our auditorium, but we are looking for suggestions as to what we can do alleviate the pressure until that happens. What ideas do you have?
• I started reading the minor prophets this week in my time alone with God in the mornings. I'm amazed at all the practical and challenging nuggets contained in those small books.
• If you haven't heard, little Abby Olson, the young girl with cancer we have been praying for, is not doing well at all.
• The teaching that is going to be taking place in each Growth Group is going to totally change the every area of life for those who are coming. It's not too late to sign up and get into a group!
• I'm really looking forward to "Pizza with the Pastor" on Sunday, January 17th. I love to talk to and get to know the new people to Meadow.
• Another idea just started floating around to aleve the seating pressure ... send a video feed to the one theatre we are not using and project the service up on the big screen.
• What do you think?
• We'll be introducing the next series next Sunday. It's a great subject and the way we will be teaching it is another first for Meadow. I'm totally looking forward to it.
• Lisa Tindall will be stepping down from her staff position of Administrative Assistant to give her time to her family and new baby coming. It will be tough to see her go.
• BUT...Tara Berg will be joining our staff as Administrative Assistant and I look forward to how God will use her and her strengths to help build our vision.
• Next Sunday we are also going to start telling more stories of real people at Meadow who's lives have been changed by Christ and His grace.
• Seriously...some of these Super Bowl commercials are totally stoooooopid (and inappropriate!)
• Next time you see Gary Oliver, give him a big high five or bear hug. He showed up extra early today to shovel the sidewalk all by himself! Thanks Gary!
• I am also absolutely impressed with our MeadowKIDS volunteers - wow....they are loving and handling all the new kids and families and doing it with big smiles on their faces...no doubt our MeadowKIDS ministry is awesome!
• Had a close pastor friend come to this morning. I didn't know it until I saw the communication cards. Wow...totally honored to have him there!
• I love my church and am so enjoying the ride God is bringing to Meadow right now!
• Later!

Sunday Mind Dump

• Yes, I talked about money today in church and no one got up and left!
• We were over 75% full again today and once again proving the church experts wrong who say once you reach 75-80% full, people stop coming.
• LOVED seeing a full house - especially on a Sunday when we clearly let people know we are staring a series on money.
• To be honest, whenever we do a series on money - it is always well received.
• Wow! It's really snowing out there. I might have to shovel my driveway!
• Had several new families return today - THAT'S always cool!
• Interview meeting for tonight has been canceled due to weather and road condition. RATS!!! I was really looking forward to it.
• We'll reschedule it for later this week - so keep praying. We are interviewing two design build firms and will be choosing which one we will hire and partner with to design and do our Phase 2 remodeling.
• What does the Phase 2 remodeling include? Enlarged auditorium, customized space for MeadowKIDS and MeadowYOUTH, a multi-purpose community room, offices, and a few other improvements.
• The biggest and most expensive challenge will be leveling the stadium seating floor in all the rooms except the auditorium. But...it has to happen for our kids and youth especially.
• My daughter came home for the weekend. She always brightens up the weekend when she comes home.
• Question and Answer time after the service didn't go so well. We've never done it before so I had no clue how it would work out. Guess we found out!
• Got some encouraging feedback this week from some Meadowites about our need to work a bit harder at raising the level of community and fellowship. I love it when people who love Meadow offer suggestions! Keep em coming!
• In light of that, we are taking some intentional steps to encourage people to stick around more after church - which is something we really never have done. An old habit from our portable days when we had to vacate the building ASAP. Guess old habits do die hard!
• Our next membership Class 101 is next Sunday. We've got another great group of people coming.
• I love teaching Class 101. It allows me to share our vision and stay in touch with those who are newer to Meadow.
• I am so impressed with our Tech Team. They really do pull off some amazing stuff every week...from the lights to the sound to the projection - it all flows together with professionalism.
• If you want to be impressed too, just walk up there some Sunday and try to count all the knobs and buttons and keys and levers they have to operate - all so we can make the greatest message on the earth sound and look the greatest.
• This weather makes me think of fishing - and not the kind where you sit on a frozen lake. I mean, "stick your boat in the water and wet a line for 'ol bucket mouth" fishing.
• Next message series after "Money Mayhem"? ... its on marriage and its called "We're Married...Now What?"
• I am so PUMPED about the weeks and months leading up to the summer. I think we are going to see God show up at Meadow in AWESOME and UNEXPLAINABLE ways!
• One of the exciting things about Class 101 is being able to read the stories of people and how they became followers of Christ - I love reading about life-change.
• We are working on putting together several video stories of how God has used Meadow to help change lives. We will be showing these in morning services starting soon.
• Well...looks like the snow on the driveway isn't clearing itself. Guess I better get out there and start shoveling.
• Later.

Sunday Mind Dump

• Solid morning. Love seeing a full house!
• FINALLY got the HVAC fixed so we had heat in the lobby!!
• Heat was important today with wind chills below zero.
• The cold temperature and the holiday weekend did affect our attendance. Down a bit today but still healthy.
• Offering was WAY down - rats.
• I really enjoyed teaching Class 101. I love that class because I get to share our vision and what makes Meadow tick.
• I love walking into the auditorium before the service and seeing and hearing all the buzz going on.
• Love seeing people connecting and building community.
• Had several new families again today. Heard about Meadow via newspaper, Facebook, and invite from friend at work!
• After preaching and then teaching Class 101...I am absolutely WHIPPED!!
• Oh...and I'm FREEZING
• Next Class 101 is in two weeks - Feb. 3rd. If you haven't taken this class - I highly encourage you to come!
• One of my favorite things to do on Sunday mornings is to stand in the hallway and just greet and talk to people as they come in. I LOVE Meadowites!
• Between the Leadership Team, the Phase 2 Remodel Team, the Capital Campaign Team, the staff, and our volunteers - I am convinced more than ever that Meadow is in the greatest leadership hands!
• Growth Groups are filling up. I anticipate this wave of Growth Groups will be PACKED with spiritual growth and community building.
• John Pennucci's six-month internship is over and he has agreed to stay on staff! THAT is AWESOME!
• Starting new teaching series next Sunday - "Money Mayhem"
• Check out the video trailer - one of our most creative trailers. Watch it here.
• We'll tackle what the Bible says about spending, saving, budgeting, giving - and depending on God to meet all our needs.
• Getting one's money under control and getting out of debt is always a top goal for the year. We will talk about getting out of death in this series too.
• Hadn't had a diet pepsi in over a week. Had one this past week and it tasted awful. Just sayin.
• I REALLY loved teaching Class 101 today and had a GREAT group of Meadowites taking the class!
• We might be getting a pop machine to put in the lobby. Based on my previous comment about diet pepsi...I won't be using it but I hear if we put Mtn Dew in it, it could be the most popular gathering spot at church!
• I LOVE getting the emails and messages from people explaining how God is using Meadow to guide them into a refreshing relationship with Jesus!
• If you have a story - any story of how God is working in your life - I want to hear it! Email or message me!
• Some MAJOR decisions will be made these next few weeks regarding the path we take in our Phase 2 remodeling. We would really appreciate your prayers for wisdom and insight!
• Well...the game is about to start and I have some other communications to get out.
• Later.

Three Things I Am Extremely Thankful For

I LOVE MY CHURCH!!!

1. I am thankful for our VOLUNTEERS! In my 28 years of ministry, I have never been connected to such a dedicated team of people! This last Sunday, in order to free up more parking spaces around the church, they chose to park across the street and walk in the frigid cold temperature! I was totally impressed with the First Impressions Team and how they helped everyone feel welcomed, find a seat, provided coffee, and smiled! The MeadowKIDS Team continues to amaze me in their love for kids! Wow! They pour out their hearts every Sunday into the youngest of Meadowites! And each week I am more thrilled with the MeadowBAND! Just about the time I think they have hit the climax of leading us in worship, they step it up even more! I am floored by the musical talent of these awesome volunteers!
2. I am thankful for our STAFF! No one loves this church more than our staff. Their enthusiasm, even during times of struggle, is absolutely contagious! I love each one of them and their families. I love talking strategy with them. I love dreaming with them. Most of all, I just love hangin' with them! The pool of wisdom and commitment that exists among Rachel Carlson, John Pennucci, Pat Laeger, and Lisa Tindall is second to none. I am sad that Lisa Tindall will soon be leaving the staff. With her baby almost here, she is stepping back from her staff position to give her full attention to her family. BUT...the awesome news is Tara Berg will be joining our staff and she will be bringing with her great input, organization, and an equal love for Meadow!
3. I am thankful for each MEADOWITE! There is no one in all the world I would rather be with and grow with than the people of Meadow Spring! You are all AWESOME! With the growth God is bringing to Meadow, you are welcoming it with open arms and smiles on your faces! This past week, you sat toward the middle and in the lower section to open up the more convenient seats for our new guests! Wow! THAT is impressive! I've been associated with churches who frown on new people walking in and would never think of giving up "their" seat! You are the most givingest group of people I know! You love Jesus! And you love Meadow! The building we are in would not be possible without YOU sacrificing financially! Wow! Oh wow!

I LOVE MY CHURCH!!!

Sunday Mind Dump

• Speechless for how today went!
• PACKED house again!
• Thanks to our awesome volunteers for parking in the overflow parking lot! You opened up spots for more people to get to Meadow and find spots close to the building.
• Yes...our volunteers are the best!
• Had a great Phase 2 Design Team meeting after the service. We have narrowed our choices down to two firms and will be conducting interviews in the next couple weeks to narrow it down to one!
• The band knocked "Live Like You Were Dying" out ... of ... the ... park!
• Lots of new guests today. God is bringing and bringing and bringing people to Meadow and I love it!
• Got a banjo for Christmas and had my first lesson this past week. I can assure you that Earl Scruggs has nothing to worry about!
• Got a great group of people signed up for our membership class ... Class 101.
• It's not too late to sign up and come! Just let me know at john@meadowspring.org
• Love reading the comments people make on Facebook and Twitter about Meadow and what they are hearing during worship and the message.
• Remember...if you are using Twitter, use hashtag #meadowspring so all your tweets about Meadow will be in the same group as everyone else. You can see what others are saying!
• Important meeting tomorrow night with a capital campaign consultant company to explain to us what they can help us with in financing Phase 2 of our remodel.
• There are no words to express how excited I am about getting started on Phase 2 of our remodel. I've already seen some concepts of what could happen and it is AWESOME!
• Started the Wheat Belly way of eating last week and I'm down 5 lbs! Look out Biggest Loser!
• You don't want to miss next week as we totally unveil the next teaching series. We might even unveil it early this week on Facebook. Trust me, this series will be relevant to EVERYone ... yes, I said EVERYone.
• For this next series, we're going to do something never done before at Meadow...we're going to have a Q & A time AFTER every service for anyone who wants to stick around and ask questions about the message.
• Need a new exhaust system for my truck. Anyone have an extra $400 laying around to help me pay for it? Sheesh!
• One element of our Phase 2 remodel is the conversion of two theatres into one large auditorium. This will be HUGE in giving us more room in the auditorium. BUT...we need to get creative until then because we are busting out of the seams!
• We're making some schedule changes with our MeadowYOUTH. Stay tuned to what's happening!
• I LOVE MY CHURCH!
• I'm getting behind in my writing. I need to take a couple days and just write to get caught up.
• I'm always amazed at how God is working at Meadow in spite of who's leading the church.
• I want to go see "Zero Dark Thirty". Who wants to go with me?
• We are planning a teaching series on marriage that starts end of February. Gonna be another first for us at Meadow as the entire staff will be involved with teaching this one! I'm already PUMPED!
• Later.

Sunday Mind Dump

• Wow! Ran out of seats! Ran out of parking! "Packed" doesn't even begin to describe it!
• Love reading the Facebook posts and seeing the pics from the service that people post!
• Love this picture taken by Bill Adams from the front row! Looks like I have zombie eyes!
• This week is a critical week as we start getting the proposals from various design/build firms who are interested in our Phase 2 remodeling project.
• Congrats to Jordan and Tara Berg on the birth of Adeline this past week!
• Confession...I was kind of cranky this morning when I got to church but the worship set totally changed that! Wow...it's amazing what corporate worship can do to one's attitude.
• I'm going gluten-free with the Wheat Belly Diet. It's a total change in how we think and eat - the learning curve is intense but Sandy & I are going to give it a great shot and see what it does!
• Did you see the short video put together of our worship set this morning? Check it out on my Facebook page.
• I know today was the first Sunday of this series, but next week we will be introducing the next series starting on January 27th.
• I'm always asked which series is my most favorite. My answer is the one we are in and the next one!
• I'm also asked if I really am pumped all the time about Meadow. YES!!! And the pastor who isn't excited about his/her church needs to find another job!
• Vikes lost. Say no more.
• You have GOT TO sign up for a Growth Group! Seriously, the study all groups will be doing will literally change your entire life and everything about your life...your relationships, your marriage, your parenting, your finances, even your physical health!
• Some of the HVAC units are just not working right - it is FREEZING in some of the rooms! We've got to get that fixed or I'm gonna need to preach on hell just to warm us up!
• A new family drives 45 miles one way just to come to Meadow!
• People were actually sitting in the front row! When that happens, you know we are running out of seats.
• Gonna have to get creative on parking and making more room for people to sit next week. We've got some ideas but are open to suggestions. What suggestions do you have?
• We WILL have more room next week so don't let that discourage you from inviting your friends. BRING THEM NEXT WEEK!!
• I am so proud of our MeadowKIDS volunteers! They totally roll with the punches and are ready to handle the number of kids who are coming!
• With that said, we are seriously thinking of dividing our elementary kids up into upper and lower elementary.
• Had a great discussion group after church today and talked about using more people to tell their stories about what God is doing in their life.
• I'd really appreciate your prayers this week as we evaluate the different design/build firm proposals. This is a critical time for our church. You'll hear more as we progress.
• Well...that's it folks.
• Later.

Sunday Mind Dump

• Vikes beat the Pack (if you haven't heard)!
• In other news... :)
• After all the Christmas stuff going on, it felt so good to have a more "normal" Sunday!
• Found this 70 second video of the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert last night. I'm not kidding when I say this is my dream of what we want to do to our auditorium when we remodel! (Scaled down of course!)
• Speaking of remodeling, I got a sneak peek this week of one of the design/build firm's idea on design for our facility and I would be lying if I didn't say it has me STOKED to get going on making it happen!
• Solid attendance this morning in spite of having a lot of people gone.
• I'm totally looking forward to next Sunday and starting the new series "Zombies Among Us"
• This series is going to bring life to a lot of people who are living half-dead, half-alive relationships with Jesus!
• Yes...it really is FREEZING outside. Can you say "below zero"?
• Pray for John & Michele Pennucci and their kids. Michele's grandpa suddenly passed away and they are traveling to Wisconsin on Tuesday for the funeral. John is speaking at the funeral.
• Had several new guests this morning. LOVE that!!
• Rumor has it that I got a banjo for Christmas. Rumor is true. But I'm a long way from pickin and grinnin!
• Sandy & I are taking on a "no spending no frills" challenge in January. We are only spending money on essentials - no frills. This will be interesting. Anyone want to join us?
• Really good offering this morning. Takes some stress off my shoulders.
• Sign lights were installed this week so now when you drive by the church after dark, you can see "Meadow Spring Church". Go check it out!
• Meadow was featured on page A15 of the Chaska Herald this past week. That's two weeks in a row we were featrued in a local newspaper.
• These next 4-6 weeks are critical for our next phase of remodeling as we discuss our capital campaign and finalize which design/build firm we will partner with to do the construction. - Really need your prayers!
• Went to see Les Miserables this past week. Lots of talk about this movie. My opinion? ... Not enough explosions, gun fights, blood, and high-speed chases.
• Got my preaching calendar all set up through Memorial Day. Now I get to start writing and making it all reality! I LOVE my job!
• These last few weeks have been intense weeks for our volunteers. Some have gone way above the call of duty and I am so appreciative of each one of them! We have the most awesome volunteers!
• My plans for New Year's Eve? I'll probably be in bed by 10 and celebrate in my dreams. Yup...I am a real partier.
• I'm really fighting the battle of too much routine. I never want my ministry to be routine. I want it to be fresh and vibrant. I would appreciate your prayers.
• Well...that's about all my mind can dump tonight.
• Later.

The Serious Side of Rockin' Christmas Eve

In all seriousness, I really am pumped for our Christmas Eve services. You see, at Meadow, we believe Christmas is to be a party not a funeral. Think about it, when was the last time you went to a "Birthday Funeral". No, you go to "Birthday Parties". Christmas is the celebration of the birth of our Savior and we intend to reflect that celebration.

What exactly will be happening at our Rockin' Christmas Eve services? You will hear some great music. You will be able to sing along with songs you are familiar with. You will hear the timeless and inspired story of the birth of Christ. You will be challenged to make this Christmas different than any Christmas up to this point by basking in the forgivenss and grace of our Savior.

I can't find strong enough words to encourage you to come AND to invite someone to come with you. This is a party we want to share with as many people as possible.

Services are at 4 & 5 and each will last 45 minutes allowing you to celebrate Christmas at Meadow and then celebrate Christmas with family and friends later.

See you tomorrow to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Sunday Mind Dump

• Wow...NEVER had that happen before in 28 years of ministry!
• Prepared the wrong set of notes and switched it up 60 minutes before the service started!
• Stumbled through the message - as I was speaking I kept thinking, "Where is this going?"
• I am SOOOO looking forward to Christmas Eve at Meadow!
• Trust me ... you don't want to be one second late. The opening number performed by the band will rock your Christmas socks off!
• For some reason, several people didn't think we were having services today. Hmmm...wonder if we miscommunicated something?
• Met some new Meadowites today - that's always a ton of fun!
• I so love out tech team. They pulled off a great service today in spite of a couple speed bumps.
• Three words ... "Zombies Among Us". It's gonna be awesome. Check out the trailer HERE.
• Vikes won today. Good game.
• I am already stuffed with Christmas goodies. Wow! And its not even Christmas Day yet!
• Got word today that a friend accidentally shot himself in the shoulder. Bullet went all the way through and he will be alright, but it was pretty scary for him and all the others in the house.
• Got a few decorations up at the church this week. It's a few weeks late. Between me not having a decorating mind and first time having our own building - I'm glad we got this much done!
• Had meetings with five construction companies this week about Phase 2 of our remodel. Every meeting went well and I'm looking forward to them sending in their proposals.
• Heads up ... 2013 is going to be an intense, packed, and AWESOME year at Meadow!
• My personal goal is that one year from today, we will be in the middle of our Phase 2 remodeling - THAT would be so freakin awesome!
• Giving has been down lately. Yes...it stresses me out.
• Lately, I've watched a few friends turn their backs on the solid Biblical understanding they grew up with. That always saddens me.
• Sandy & I celebrated our 31st anniversary this past Wednesday! I still wonder when the honeymoon will be over.
• What did we do? I went to the doctor and had a spot literally froze off my face. Dr said the chemicals were -315 degrees. That's cold even for someone who loves Minnesota!
• Next Sunday I'm speaking on crazy things God asks us to do and yes, I have the right set of notes to prepare ... I think! :)
• We are helping several families with food for Christmas. It's always a lot of fun to give people something they aren't expecting!
• If you haven't invited someone to come with you to our Rockin Christmas Eve services - do it NOW!!
• Well...I hear the chocolate covered peanuts calling me.
• Later.