BECTON'S BLOG

Dodgeball Love

2011-08-02T15:23:00.003-04:00

We had a fun afternoon today at our Dodgeball Challenge. It was nice to be out of the office for a while hanging with some of our students. Today's Champs - 'His Ballerz" - Congratulations !!

~ Shane

I Am A Family Man

2011-06-22T12:39:00.003-04:00

I saw this online - pretty cool video about family. (Facebook viewers, click here to view video)

Early Morning Send-Off

2011-06-20T08:39:00.002-04:00

I met with a group of our students this morning who left for SonPower in Orlando, Florida. During their week they will be participating in mission activities, worship arts, and music rehearsals - all which lead up to a recording session at the end of the week for the "Are We There Yet" youth musical. Please keep this group of Northisde students and leaders in your prayers - I am looking forward to hearing some great stories when they return.

~Shane

Life Alert Needed

2011-06-15T09:28:00.003-04:00

I had the bright idea yesterday I would join the P90X workout group here on campus. Little did I know yesterday's workout (my first one) is considered the "mother of all workouts" - 1 hour of Plyometrics. I made it through with vomiting but really regretted eating that cheeseburger for lunch.

The good thing about my new found efforts to get in shape - I get my body moving and better health is always a plus. The downside to this whole P90X workout - I started while my wife and kids were out of town. This morning I could barley get out of bed - being alone in the house - I could have used one of those alert necklaces to inform someone I need help!

~ Shane

2011 Summer Student Calendar

2011-06-09T09:42:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More calendar

2011 Graduation

2011-06-07T15:28:00.008-04:00

We celebrated our High School & College Graduates during our weekend services. It's an exciting time for each student as they make transitions into College and the work force. Next weekend we celebrate with a dinner for graduates and their families. I am looking forward to a more personal celebration to honor the grads. I have to admit after realizing it was 20 years ago that I graduated High School I am feeling the age gap - but it is a privilege to be my age and still be hanging with students.

End of a Season

2011-06-03T12:03:00.006-04:00

This week brings our family to the end of another softball season. The girls played really well this season and learned more a lot more about the sport. Closing ceremonies after the weekend - then Summer kicks into high gear!

The LIFE Book Movement

2011-05-23T19:46:00.005-04:00

I made an exciting commitment today with the Gideons International. Over the Summer our Student Ministry will be preparing for the Life Book Movement which will kick off this Fall. The Life Book Movement is an innovative strategy to reach students with God's Word.

Our goal? 5000 copies of The Life Book to distribute to Northside students. They, in turn, saturate their school campuses with the free copies of God's Word to distribute to their friends.

The video above is a great introduction to this ministry opportunity. Learn more about the Life Book Movement here.

~ Shane

Facebook users click here to view video

It's Worth It

2011-05-13T20:00:00.003-04:00

Depart Wilmington International Airport: 9:35 am (EST)

Total Flight Connections: 3

Longest Flight Duration: 5 hours and 52 minutes

Number of In-Flight Movies: 2

Arrived in Maui: 5:00 pm (that's 11:00 pm EST)

Bus ride to our Resort: 45 minutes

Number of hours to have to stay awake the

first night because of the time difference: 5

Bed time the first night: 10:00 pm (that's 3:00 am EST)

Waking up to the balcony view above: Priceless!

One of Those Days

2011-05-11T08:44:00.002-04:00

You know the kind of days I'm referring to - days when life seems unfair. Days when it seems like the whole world is against you. What is it that keeps you from giving up? The video above is a great reminder of the kind of love God has for each of us and the hope we find in His love is that nothing can stand in the way of it - it's all consuming.

Take a moment to view the video above. It is a great reminder that life will throw us curve balls. At times life isn't easy and there surely are hard days. But that is only half of it - the love God has for us means we will never be defeated by the world and the challenges that come our way. We can overcome anything the world has to dish out because through His love we are "more than conquerors".

~ Shane

FACEBOOK users - click here to preview video

Small Group Study Series Kicks Off

2011-05-09T11:22:00.006-04:00

This Sunday our Student Small Groups kick off a new study series in the book of James. This series resulted when we asked the question "Do students’ lives reflect their beliefs?" The book of James has a pretty simple premise: if you follow Christ, your life should look like it. In short, the book of James is a book of action.

James calls his readers to live a life of vivid faith! What a great message for today’s students who live in a world where Christ-followers are criticized for failing to represent their faith, James challenges students to let their faith shine through their words and actions. This series will provide Northside students opportunities to evaluate their faith and their actions, to identify where the two don't match up, and to make the necessary changes to live a life of vivid faith.

Student Small Groups meet Sunday Mornings at 9:30 am & 11:00 am in the Life Center.

~ Shane

Good vs. Free

2011-05-03T14:59:00.002-04:00

We did something a little different in our Student Ministry this past weekend. I pulled all of our Small Groups together and we focused around this central thought "Is being good good enough?" Others may think we're a pretty good person. We are nice in public. We help others in need. But what about your heart? What if others could see inside of you?

The truth is - God can see and yet . . . . He still chose to send His Son to redeem us. No matter how "good" we act, the Bible reminds us we are still sinful and self-centered. We needed God's grace - we need His forgiveness - we need His freedom.

Are you just "good" or are you free? There's a big difference.

~ Shane

May Parent Newsletter

2011-05-02T10:02:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More parents

iPad Coolness

2011-05-01T13:53:00.006-04:00

I bought my iPad 2 a little less than a month ago. It has been one of the best purchases I have made. Two apps that I have found to be the most helpful are the iTunes remote and Pro Presenter. Both apps allow me to control all audio/visual aspects of our Youth Service located on my Mac all from my iPad. From anywhere in the building I have control of music and media. Technology is so cool!

~ Shane

On Your Mark; Get Set . . .

2011-04-26T13:17:00.005-04:00

The past 3-4 years of my life have been filled with some deep, personal learning for me. As I look back at some of the things I have experienced, I am reminded of the following illustration:

The highly trained athlete burst from the blocks in an explosion of speed and strength. He had not gone a second step before his body slammed into the ground. He got up again, and began to run. Again, he slammed into the ground. He tried to run harder. Same result. He tried to be quicker, again, he fell. He tried to slow down, take smaller steps, he tried every variation he could imagine. All of his training and all of his strength seemed to avail him nothing. Again and again he fell.

He looked down. The laces of his two shoes were tied to one another.

He reached down, untied the knot and tied his shoes correctly.

Now he burst from the blocks, completed the race, and did so without a single fall.

In this short parable, is one of the most important keys to living a life of freedom. Often the issue is not our effort, our training, or our will-power. Often the issue is entanglements within our soul. When our mind, will, and emotions are tangled up within one another, no amount of effort, no amount of will power can propel us in the direction we are trying to go. A significant key to living a life of freedom is learning how God designed our soul, and letting Him untangling the knots of a lifetime of experience.

I am learning to live a life of freedom in Christ - how about you? Are your "running shoes" tied correctly?

~ Shane

April Parent Newsletter

2011-04-04T14:15:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More newsletter

My Big Promotion

2011-03-07T14:32:00.003-05:00

I found out this past weekend I have been accepted into a prestigious and exclusive organization. It came as a surprise to me once I was informed. I never thought I had any chance of being a part of this group so I never had my hopes too high. So this weekend's announcement was out of the blue for me.

I admit it - I swelled with pride when my youngest daughter informed me of the exciting news I was the only boy who could be a part of her "girls only" club! I have been made aware I join the company of distinguished club members such as Emily, Taylor, and Madison. Who knew my reputation would benefit because of the Pre-K - 5 year old - all girls club!

"I am honored to accept this award. I would like to thank my parents - my family . . . . . "

~ Shane

March Parent Newsletter

2011-02-28T08:26:00.001-05:00

Mac Nerd

2011-02-25T11:03:00.003-05:00

Okay - I admit it - I am a technology nerd. And over the past couple of years my attention has been focused on Apple products. Well today I ordered the new Mac Book Pro, previously released on Thursday of this week. With a state of the art Intel processor, new graphics processor, HD built in camera, and the addition of the Thunderbolt port for for high speed data connections and Mini Display Port Video - the new Mac Book rules!

~ Shane

My Top 5

2011-02-21T14:30:00.003-05:00

This week each admin/ministerial member of our staff received a copy of the book Strengths Finder 2.0 by Tom Rath. We each took an online assessment test to identify our top 5 strengths. This gives us a better idea of how each team member thinks, how they operate, and how they approach leadership situations.

My top 5 results - Responsibility, Relator, Harmony, Discipline, Consistency.

The theme descriptions and personalized strength insights are helpful in understanding more about myself as a ministry leader. Good stuff to be reading through with the team!

~ Shane

Touch-And-Go

2011-02-18T12:03:00.003-05:00

Our church is is about 9 miles from Wilmington International Airport and we are in a direct fly zones for incoming planes. This week Air Force One (well technically Eagle One when not carrying the President) has been doing touch-and-go exercises so several times a day the Presidential plane has been flying overhead.

Pretty cool to see this piece of American History!

Healthy Mistake

2011-02-17T15:52:00.002-05:00

Some of the staff went to lunch at Foster's Grill. Its one of those restaurants where you fill out an order ticket and turn it in at the counter. I had never eaten there before and in my haste to catch up with the rest of the group I quickly placed my order. Moments later my food arrived.

The fries were great. The tea was sweet. The burger-well something wasn't right. I checked my order and realized I had filled in the wrong block. I ordered the Garden Veggie Burger.

What a let down!

~ Shane

Amazed

2011-02-14T08:36:00.002-05:00

Why is it so shocking to us when God does something awesome? Why does that surprise us so much? Is it that we think He can't do it? Are our expectations to weak? I am one of the one's who feels like this at times. In my opinion the biggest reason God doesn't move more than He does is because we are in the way. Last night was different.

We had a Student Led Worship Service in the Main Worship Center. And while there were several people involved - God was in the center. Early on in the week, as we were planning the music, media, etc - we felt the service taking on a different focus than what we originally planned. Yesterday as the Youth Praise Team and Youth Worship Band were practicing - it had come together and everyone was ready. What a great job the students did in leading everyone in worship. Followed by a student sharing her testimony, the student choir, and student baptism - God's presence was evident. I'm thankful for our Pastor who sensed this moving and - as a result - went with the flow and allowed God to change his original plans. It was awesome to experience the whole night.

The reality is - God is always wanting to do something in our lives. He is always ready to give more of Himself to us. He is there to spend more time with, to give more comfort, and to share more direction. God is always there to move, to give, and to do - we just have to get out of the way!

~ Shane

The Force

2011-02-03T16:46:00.003-05:00

Great commercial from Volkswagon. (facebook users watch here)

February Parent Newsletter

2011-02-01T13:38:00.000-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More resource

Heavenly Manners

2011-01-24T09:11:00.002-05:00

Following our services yesterday the family went out to lunch. As we were walking into the restaurant, my youngest daughter is teaching me manners and tells me:

"Daddy, when we get to Heaven - we don't burp in God's face. He will give us a spanking!"

A New Year - A New City

2011-01-17T16:17:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe most of January is gone. The beginning of 2011 brought a lot of change for my family. We have moved to a new city - a new school atmosphere for the girls - rebuilding a business base for Holly - and a new ministry location for me. It has been a lot of change over the last couple of weeks. But we are so fortunate to have great family and friends that walk with us through these changes.

Throughout this move Holly and I have faced some challenges that were beyond our control. In the middle of those circumstances we knew there was not a single thing we could do. That's a scary place to be when it potentially could affect your family. But it has been comforting to see how God has taken care of big and little details at just the right time. We have truly learned we have to thank Him for our past and trust Him for our future. That's easier said than done. Thanking God for the past - regardless of how good or bad it was; trusting God for the future - regardless of how many details we have or or don't have. That's a challenge. But one we are learning on a daily basis.

Bowl Madness

2010-12-31T10:30:00.001-05:00

This was one of the craziest finishes - thankfully the Heels walk away with the win!

Facebook usere click here to see video.

Extending Christmas

2010-12-30T13:07:00.005-05:00

This Christmas has been unlike any other for our family. First we stayed on the Shore Christmas Day. We are normally with family over the holidays but this year we decided we would leave for home a day late. It was a little strange for the girls to be opening presents without the grandparents - however, the day was still very special for our family.

This year we got a Wii as a family gift. After opening a couple other presents, some close friends joined us from brunch and spent the day with us. It was so much fun playing the wii, eating, laughing, napping, and watching sports. At the end of the day our girls mentioned "This was the best Christmas ever!" Holly and I realized even though we were away from our family for Christmas - we were so lucky to have great friends and neighbors to share the holidays.

We were able to make it off the Shore a day late due to the snow fall. (17+ inches in some areas) First stop, Burlington to see my mom for a few days and then onto Granite Falls to see Holly's family. Each stop filled with more presents, food, and memories for our family.

I always enjoy stepping back and looking at the smiles on the faces of our loved ones during our times together. Watching them with my girls and the joy they share is such a blessing. I am so thankful for my family and have been so blessed with great 2010 Christmas memories that will be treasured for a long time.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T21:04:00.003-05:00

Facebook users click here

Christmas Preparations

2010-12-23T09:46:00.002-05:00

For the past few years our family has been using this little resource the week before Christmas as a way to focus on the Christmas Story. Each night we open up a box to reveal the character we will focus on for the evening. The girls are so excited because they get to guess who our family will read about for the evening. After placing the figure on the make shift Nativity scene, we read about that character's involvement in the Christmas passage.

This year has been special for me. My oldest daughter has asked to read the story to our family. It's amazing to sit back and watch her read while her younger sister listens to every word.

The point of the week - stay focused on Christ and, as the book says, to understand: "What God wants for Christmas? It's--to you--a surprise. In box number seven it is disguised. But - no peeking! Be patient! For this you must wait. It's what you offer Him, and it's really great."

This is a great resource your family can use. If you're interested - click here.

~ Shane

Christmas Town

2010-12-20T09:17:00.003-05:00

We don't head across the bay often, but yesterday was an exception. It was Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. It was a great evening with some friends, walking around, looking at all the lights, and even riding a few rides.

If you get a chance to head over to Busch Gardens for a look at Christmas Town you will not want to miss it - and try the hot chocolate - it's the greatest.

~ Shane

What's Next?

2010-12-13T09:14:00.006-05:00

I resigned my Student Pastor position this past Sunday. Some people were caught off guard. Some people, unfortunately, already knew. Many people wished us well. Don't get me wrong - I wasn't in a bad situation like some ministerial staff are in our country. I'm just trying to be obedient to where God's calling me.

Over the years I have learned some people don't understand that - "God's calling". They view it as "religious jargon" spoken in place of the "real reason" a pastor is leaving. In some situations, that is the case. But if you really know me you know that's not my style. My view of God and His calling on my life are much deeper than that.

Yet it still surprises me how people assume a ministerial move was decided upon as a result of worldly conditions and then flavored with a little "God talk" to look more spiritual. I'm amazed at what people think when their ministerial staff resign. Some of the comments I have heard this week are:

"You leaving to be closer to family." Sure! Who would not want to be around their family. But the reality of the situation is we haven't been for the past 16 months and when we move we will be on the opposite side of the state.

"I told you from the beginning it would be hard." There are tough times and challenges in ministry no matter where you are. If you go into ministry thinking it's a cake walk your setting yourself up for disaster.

"I know you guys didn't like it here." To me this is the most selfish reason to move my family. Regardless of "liking" my surroundings or not, why would I take my girls away from the friends they have made or the school they love if I didn't feel God leading me to make this decision?

"Was it something I said in a business meeting?" I believe in a church business meeting setting it is important to cultivate an Christ-like attitude of discussion. But once opinions are shared, prayerfully seeking God's direction for the church is the most important thing a church can do. To think comments shared in a business meeting led me to my decision to resign a week later eliminates God's process and timing in the situation.

But in it all I am reminded of Proverbs chapter 15 (you can read a paraphrase here) and understand how my approach and actions should be in this time of transition.

From the moment I sensed God preparing me for a move while on staff in North Carolina - through the 2 year process of waiting on God in finding Onancock Baptist - through telling the staff and church at Concord Baptist I was moving to Virginia after serving there for 12 years - through our move to another state - especially over the past several months on the Eastern Shore - to where I am today God has been teaching Holly and I about His faithfulness, His protection, and His provisions.

To long we had relied on our own abilities, on our family and friends, and on our connections. God wanted to get our attention to remind us my ministry and our family needed to rely on Him and Him alone. We needed to trust in Him and only in Him no matter how crazy things may get, how well things go, how bleak they may appear, or when we don't sense anything at all. This learning sharpened in focus while here on the Eastern Shore and I look for it to continue long into our future.

The reality is God wants to take each of us deeper in our relationship with Him. He wants you to trust Him. He wants you to rely on Him. But you and I have to submit our thoughts, our plans, and our will to His control regardless of what others may think.

This submission is not an overnight action. For me - it's a daily process. But one I have come to understand is best for my life and my family. It's best because it's God's plan.

~ Shane

O Holy Night?

2010-11-30T12:46:00.001-05:00

I thought I would do my part to help you get into the Christmas mood. Enjoy!

Did I Just Say That?

2010-11-30T09:26:00.002-05:00

Our Administrative Secretary came into my office this morning. As we were talking I kept smelling this familiar scent. I asked her "Where is that smell coming from. It smells like a Christmas tree!" Her reply - "It's my Midnight Pomegranate lotion."

Nice way to start off the day telling the Admin. Assistant she smells like a tree!

-Shane

Father Becton

2010-11-30T08:57:00.003-05:00

Last night the JR High Small Group that meets in my home came and went - and then the real ministry began. My 9 year old was sitting on the couch. She looked at me and said "Dad, I need to tell you something." She began telling me some of the things she had done wrong, the things she has seen in various TV commercials, the things she has heard her friends say..... oh yeah, and that she saw my nephew's underwear over Thanksgiving when he scratched his stomach. It was like a confessional. While some of her confessions were quite humorous, to her - it was serious business.

I don't want my girls to think as their dad I put more attention and effort into the lives of other people than I do them. Last night I thought to myself, how would I handle this if a teen was sitting in front of me. Then it hit me, this is no teen - this is my daughter and this is one of those God-given teachable moments.

I spent my time listening and questioning - sharing a little of Gods word where necessary but mainly listening. All she needed was someone to listen to her talk. Now don't get me wrong, she needs direction and guidance and that will come - but last night she talked and dad, not the youth pastor, listened.

For those of you who are parents, your kids are wanting to open up to you - they just may not know how to start the conversation. I realized my daughter had been wanting to for sometime - she just did not want to interrupt my 'busyness". (ouch)

Parents - make time for your kids/teens. Show an interest in their lives; listen to their struggles; celebrate their victories. They face a world that is far more tempting and testing than you and I did at their age. The need you. They're not looking for "perfect" Christian parents - they're looking for parents who will live out an authentic faith so they can learn how to live theirs.

Shane

Family @ Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T14:58:00.002-05:00

This weekend we headed back home to North Carolina for the holidays. Although we spend a great amount of time on the road, it is always worth seeing family and friends for a few days. I have to be honest, when we lived in North Carolina, we took for granted having our family so close and accessible. This past year we have been the furthest away from our families we have ever been. It has caused me to realize how important and valuable family and friends are in your life.

Shane

Shine

2010-11-18T10:07:00.001-05:00

Cool video from the David Crowder Band using the "old school" Light Bright.

It's That Time Of Year

2010-11-10T15:45:00.003-05:00

This is our collection weekend for Operation Christmas Child here at OBC. This entire week of student ministry events are dedicated to preparing shoe-boxes to be sent around the world. Tonight our students will be purchasing toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and other gifts to place into each box. This week students will also be packing and wrapping boxes getting them ready for Sunday. During our main service this weekend we will have a dedication prayer for all the boxes received by our students, children, and adults at OBC. This is a short video we put together to play during our service.

Great song and message from Regie Hamm - Check him out here!

~ Shane

November Parent Newsletter

2010-11-02T10:52:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More parents

Hometown Pitcher Wins Big

2010-11-02T09:37:00.005-04:00

People in San Francisco are celebrating today because the Giants have won the World Series - but there is another town that is celebrating this big win - Hudson, NC. This is home for Madison Bumgarner. I had many wonderful years of ministry in this area of North Carolina. During that time I had a chance to see Madison develop as a High School pitcher for South Caldwell. He is a great athlete who stays clam and executes under pressure and emerges as a leader. But there's another side to this young man - he also leads when it comes to his faith. I saw Madison lead the State Champion High School Baseball team in both ways. And no doubt with this new platform he finds himself on - he will continue to lead in athletics and in his Christian faith!

Caldwell County has to be proud of this young man!

Car Pool Theology

2010-10-19T10:10:00.002-04:00

This morning on the drive to school, Kennidee enlightened us with her knowledge of God (remember, she is a 4 year old scholar at this point)

KENNIDEE: "Dad, did you know Pharaoh and the Giant will not be in Heaven?"
ME: "They won't?"

KENNIDEE: "Nope. They were bad and didn't love God."
ME: "That's sad."

KENNIDEE: "Do you know God is light?"
ME: "Really?"

KENNIDEE: "Yep. Does he have a switch?"

Student Life Groups Kick Off

2010-10-19T08:47:00.004-04:00

Last night our JR & SR High small groups met for the first time following a break in the summer calendar. I host a JR High group in our home with the help of another of our volunteer leaders. It was fun getting together again. Of course we enjoyed some food, but hanging out and growing together as a group is fun too.

We started a new series: Life Together. The title sums up what small groups are all about; giving teens an opportunity to connect with a few other students, helping them discover God's plan for their lives, and encouraging them to do life together with the teens in their group.

I look forward to watching this group grow deeper.

~ Shane

Camping For Candy

2010-10-17T16:51:00.008-04:00

We made plans back in the summer to go camping this weekend. There's no way we could have realized a Nor'easter would move through the day before we were to head out to the campsite. Luckily the rain stopped but the wind remained. Holly and I slept in the tent -- a 40+ degree evening chill with winds that sounded like a freight train. Made for an interesting night in our little Coleman tent.

Three weeks leading up to Halloween, the camping center host big "Trick or Treat weekends" where all the kids can dress up and walk from camp site to camp site getting bucket loads of candy. We had a lot of fun with the girls and our neighbors walking around with the kids.

As you can see, Kennidee was not too excited about stopping the candy collecting to take a photo.

~ Shane

I Was Only Trying To Help

2010-10-14T10:10:00.002-04:00

Holly has been suffering with her allergies the past few days. So the other night while she was at work, I thought the kids and I could get most of the cleaning done to help out. Avreigh unloaded and loaded the dishwasher - Kennidee and I folded the laundry. I took the bigger basket of clothes and gave Kennidee the smaller basket of towels to fold. She was so excited to be helping and folding the towels all by herself. She even went the extra mile and put the towels away.

The next day while I was at home for lunch Holly asked me "Who folded all the dirty towels?"

Ooops.....my bad!

~Shane

You Are A Masterpiece

2010-10-07T14:11:00.001-04:00

Last night @ OBC Students we looked at a classic skit from the Skit Guys entitled "God's Chisel". It's an awesome thought to realize God created us with a plan and purpose for our lives; that He gave us Christ as an example, and that He encourages us.

Does that mean life is always perfect? No! Will we have difficulties in our lives. Absolutely. Will we experience challenges and situations that make us ask "Why?" - you bet we will.

God wants us to be encouraged and understand if we are experiencing trials or difficulties, then it can be for our good. He can be mold and shape us through those difficulties. if He didn't believe in us and love us - He would not attempt to chisel off and remove our rough edges.

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!

In this all-out match against sin, others have suffered far worse than you, to say nothing of what Jesus went through—all that bloodshed! So don't feel sorry for yourselves. Or have you forgotten how good parents treat children, and that God regards you as his children?

My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline,
but don't be crushed by it either.
It's the child he loves that he disciplines;
the child he embraces, he also corrects.

God is educating you; that's why you must never drop out. He's treating you as dear children. This trouble you're in isn't punishment; it's training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents leave children to fend for themselves. Would you prefer an irresponsible God? We respect our own parents for training and not spoiling us, so why not embrace God's training so we can truly live? While we were children, our parents did what seemed best to them. But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God's holy best. At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God."
Hebrews 12:1-11 ( The Message)

Ultimately our purpose is to bring God glory and show the world what God looks like. Is He chiseling you today? Is God trying to teach you - mold you - shape you? Then STOP resisting! Allow Him to love you. In the end we will be more like Christ because of God's guidance, discipline, and direction.

~ Shane

Facebook users - click here - to view God's Chisel Skit Video

Morning Drive Conversations

2010-10-05T09:55:00.002-04:00

Every morning I take the girls to school. I am not a morning person so when it was my oldest daughter and I riding to school in the years past - it has been a pretty quiet ride. This year, with Kennidee riding along to pre-school - the quite commute has changed. This morning was no different:

KENNIDEE: "Daddy, why can't I ride a school bus to school?"
ME: "Because I take you to school. Your school does not have a school bus."
KENNIDEE: "If I went to Accomatic I could ride the bus!"
ME: "It's Accomack honey."
KENNIDEE: "When I go to college I'm gonna ride the school bus."

Conversations with Kennidee are always interesting and the drive time commute has become very entertaining.

Be Who You Are

2010-10-02T22:21:00.002-04:00

I saw this on a buddy's blog - great message to Student Pastor's from the folks at Student Life.

Can't see this on Facebook? Click here

October 2010 Parent Newsletter

2010-09-30T11:50:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More teens

Weekend @ Busch Gardens

2010-09-27T11:18:00.003-04:00

This past weekend the In-Laws arrived on the shore. They brought my nephew for a weekend visit so we all headed to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. You know - I thought the prices of the tickets were overpriced, and the food is always way too expensive - but nothing compares to seeing your kids laugh on a ride or get excited about spending the whole day with family. That makes it worth the saving and fighting the crowds in the 95 degree Virginia sun!

~ Shane

see more weekend pics here

Fun Small Groups Promo

2010-09-21T14:17:00.003-04:00

I plan to show this video tomorrow night to our students. Simple and fun to make!

~ Shane

Student Life Groups

2010-09-21T10:53:00.003-04:00

We have kicked off sign-ups for our Small Groups. I love the idea of small groups. Giving teens an opportunity to grow deeper in their faith, while giving them chances to connect deeper in relationships with other teens and caring adults is a great thing. Interested in joining a Student Life Group? Sign up today and more information will be sent to you.

~ Shane

Season Premiere

2010-09-15T15:44:00.003-04:00

Big night tonight as the new season of Survivor kicks off.

~ Shane

Where Were You?

2010-09-10T08:57:00.005-04:00

September 11, 2001 is a day that changed America. For my generation, this day was a defining moment in our lives. Up until then we couldn't answer where we were when JFK was shot. We could not identify with the emotions people felt about the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. But September 11, 2001 changed that. I will always remember where I was and the emotions I felt on that tragic day.

I was in New Hampshire on a church plant missions trip. The morning for our group started like all others. We had breakfast and were preparing to meet with the group to get instructions for the day. I remember walking into the hotel room where we were to meet and the news was on TV. I watched in disbelief as Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower. At first I thought it was a movie. This only happens in Hollywood right? But I could tell by the mood of those watching the newscast this was real. Our group sat motionless and quite as we watched the events unfold.

Flight 77 crashes into the Pentagon. What is happening? We were stunned. No one wanted to say a word. And then - at 9:59 a.m. - the Towers begin to collapse. We were horrified.

I wanted to call home to talk to my wife - no luck. Cell lines were shut down. Phone lines were jammed. We were stuck. Not able to fly home, we rented a van and began the 16 hour drive home. I will never forget driving through New York on the way home. The smell. The trash and debris. The smoke and glow of the fire. It was a scary and life-changing moment.

Since 9-11 our country has been protected by the men and women who serve in the military, the Coast Guard, and men and women who serve our police, fire and medic departments. Without their dedication and service Americans would not be as safe or prepared for tragic events.

Today as you remember this event that changed the life of every American - remember those who daily put their life in harms way so you and I may enjoy freedom in the United States of America.

Family Camping Trip

2010-09-08T09:27:00.004-04:00

Over the holiday weekend, Holly and I took the girls camping. We joined our neighbors at a local campground they visit on a regular basis. It was a fun time setting up camp, watching the kids ride their bikes, playing in the pool, hanging out by the campfire, and of course - making Smores!

We took a walk along the bay close to the camp sites and was able to catch the setting sun. (see photo above) Next time we plan to get our site on the water.

The only thing I didn't like was the 6:15 a.m. wake up call by the Chinese family camping at the spot beside us. I wish I knew what they were saying as they talked loudly, opened and closed their car doors, and repeatedly set the alarm on their Toyota.

But we got up and enjoyed breakfast. Nothing like a camp breakfast made on the cast iron skillet.

~ Shane

Riding The Storm Out

2010-09-03T13:43:00.002-04:00

Hurricane Earl made its way over Cape Hatteras and today approached the Easter Shore of Virginia. By this time it was downgraded to a Level 2 Hurricane and we just caught the outer bands. So far a little rain and a lot of wind.

I gotta admit I am a little disappointed - don't get me wrong - I am glad there was no flooding nor damage. But as much as the news has followed this Hurricane and played it up, man you get hyped for the rough weather. I bought batteries, had flashlights for everyone, got out the camping stove, and even inflated the air mattresses just in case we had visitors searching for dry land.

So since all this stuff is out and ready - tonight we are cutting all the lights out and using the flashlights - eating cans of Beenie Weenie's and Ravioli, and I may just cut off the AC to simulate a complete power outage!

~ Shane

Hunker Down!

2010-09-01T08:45:00.004-04:00

Time to get ready for Hurricane Earl. With a huge threat to most of the East Coast, we a sitting right in the path of this storm. Weather it remains Hurricane force or is downgraded to a Tropical Storm - it's still something we have to pay attention to where we live.

Virginia's Eastern Shore is seventy miles long running north to south, fifteen miles open at its widest point and only two miles wide at the narrow end. The Eastern Shore of Virginia is surrounded by water on three sides so you can see how this storm can get your attention.

The next few days should be interesting.

~ Shane

September 2010 Parent Newsletter

2010-08-26T15:35:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More parents

First Day of School

2010-08-25T09:26:00.003-04:00

Today begins a new chapter in the lives of the Becton Family - both girls are now in school! Avreigh begins the 4th grade and Kennidee is in an all day Preschool 4 year old program. We are excited to have both girls attending Shore Christian Academy - I just hope the teachers are ready for both girls.

Kennidee was so excited. It takes us about 25 minutes to get to school. She did not stop talking the entire trip (she takes after Holly). Avreigh barely said 5 words (she takes after me)

"Daddy - I am going to be in the Preschool class right? I have to lay down and take a nap. My teacher said I don't have to sleep but I can rest. Will I be gone all day? Will you be ok at work? Will mommy be scared all by herself at home? I get to draw pictures of Jesus with a pencil. Juice is for lunch and water is for snack."

Get the idea? It should be an eventful year with many exciting trips to school with both Kennidee and Avreigh.

~ Shane

see more pics here

Dora & My Jr. High Small Group

2010-08-16T21:46:00.003-04:00

Tonight was our weekly Life Group night for our students. I host the Junior High students at our home. For the most part - JR. High Ministry can be like herding cats. Tonight, we went to a new level.

Students arrived at the house, we hung out in the driveway shooting some hoops, and then they spotted my pre-schooler's Dora bikes and tricycles. That's all it took! For the rest of the evening they wanted to ride the Dora bikes and play with my daughters toys.

Note to self for next week's meeting - Dora cupcakes and DVD's!

~ Shane

A Day on the Bay

2010-08-16T09:23:00.004-04:00

Yesterday we took the students out on the bay for a little boating and tubing. The weather was perfect and we had a great time. We spent the afternoon running three boats pulling tubers and knee-boarders. The jet-ski was roaring all afternoon giving rides as well. Some students did a little kayaking and we even had a few games of corn-hole. We ended the evening with a little grilling and hanging out on the deck. It was a fun afternoon - thanks to all the adults driving watercraft.

The Incident

2010-08-15T21:54:00.002-04:00

You know how it is - you're trying to leave town and things pop up and throw you off schedule. Last week the family and I went back home to North Carolina - I was heading to Youth Camp and the girls were going to spend a week visiting family and friends. But as I was heading off to camp - Holly was heading off to Emergency Care.

Kennidee fell off the bed and fractured her wrist. So after hours in a doctor's office - xrays - and numerous questions from Kennidee to anyone who would listen - Holly and Kennidee finally emerge with a "Barbie Pink" cast.

And no - the fractured wrist or the cast has not slowed her down!

~ Shane

Parenting Texting/Email Resource

2010-08-12T12:35:00.003-04:00

I taught a parenting seminar a couple of months ago and one of the greatest area's of interest was teens and cell phones. Let's face it, almost every teen has their own cell phone these days and with the Internet options these phones are capable of offering parents have to set safeguards in place. With the increase in sexting and texting - parents have to be proactive.

I recently heard about a great way for parents to stay in the loop and protect what their kids are viewing and receiving on their phones. MouseMail protects children from vulgar, sexual or bullying emails or texting. If MouseMail determines the content is questionable, the email/text is automatically forwarded to the parent for clearance. Should the parent approve the message, it can be sent to the child; if believed to be inappropriate, the message is permanently blocked by the parent. Using MouseMail, a parent can program their child's cell phone for specific hours access, and the parent can shut off cell messaging during school hours.

Parents - take a look at the site and see if this is an option for you and your family.

~ Shane

August 2010 Parent Newsletter

2010-07-28T12:25:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More teens

Hardware Kid Update

2010-07-25T10:31:00.002-04:00

You may remember from an earlier post the issue Holly and I have been dealing with. Well last night nature took it's course and the "bathroom moment" happened. The whole idea I had in my head that Holly would take the lead and search for the digested screw - didn't happen. Nope - yours truly had to be the man and search for the screw.

The good thing is: Kennidee passed the screw and is doing fine. The bad thing: I can't get this smell out of my nose.

~ Shane

Just Wait A Day Or Two

2010-07-24T16:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Holly and I were upstairs doing some cleaning. My two daughters were downstairs getting some lunch. All of a sudden, Kennidee begins screaming. I ran downstairs to find her crying and rubbing her tongue. At first I thought she got into some hot spices and ate them. Nope. She swallowed a screw!

After calming her down and explaining what we can and cannot put into her mouth we finished our cleaning and waited for our friends to come over - with her nursing background we brought the subject up to get her advice. She said when Kennidee has to go do #2 she needs to tell us and then we can examine to make sure the screw passed.

I think I have it worked out to where Kennidee can tell ME when she needs to use the restroom and HOLLY can examine it!

~ Shane

Attack of the Sea Nettles

2010-07-20T14:27:00.003-04:00

Holly and the girls went to the beach yesterday. Nice weather. Sunshine. Waves. Another great day at the beach for the Becton Women. Then not one, but both of the girl were stung. Avreigh got it on her knee; Kennidee got it on her upper mid-thigh.

The locals say these things hurt. The sting is bad, but the pain and burn keeps coming in waves for a few hours. There are also several local remedies for treating the sting; alcohol, meat tenderizer, vinegar, or urine - non of which we had. (Well except for the urine part but let's focus on the girls)

The girls are fine and after a short nap at home were back to their usual selves.

~ Shane

Kind Of In The Mood

2010-07-18T21:32:00.006-04:00

I have heard the two best day's of a boat owner's life are the day they buy the boat and the day they sell the boat. I'm not sure if that is true or not, but I can say my family had a pretty good afternoon on a boat this past weekend. And I have to admit - it's easy to get the "I wanna boat" bug.

Saturday we went with friends to Metompkin Beach (pictured above). As we drove up to the beach we realized this was a natural setting that could only be reached by boat. For a long time we were the only two families on the beach. Then it began to get crowded. Yeah - two more families showed up. That's right - a total of four families with the beach all to ourselves.

We had a great time hanging out on the beach, riding the boat along the barrier islands, and ending the day with steamed crabs for dinner.

~ Shane

Fight The Youth Ministry Stereotype

2010-07-13T22:00:00.001-04:00

This video was shown at this year's Simply Youth Ministry Conference - hilarious. Jake and Josh are always classic when they team up together.

Defining Moment at Busch Gardens

2010-07-10T13:36:00.003-04:00

I took a small group of students and adults to Busch Gardens yesterday. That makes three amusement parks I have been to in the last month. Yesterday was a fun day. We arrived, got the group divided into smaller groups, and everyone headed their own way. The first ride for my group - the Griffon - not once but twice. Then onto the Alpengeist. This one ended my day! I came off the ride - head swimmy - vision blurred - stomach swirling.

The rest of my group wanted to ride more rides. I tagged along. While they were being occupied by amusement park fun, I was seeking shelter, a snack, and a drink to help me settle down. While I drank my Diet Pepsi and ate my pretzel I came to a major - life - realization; I'm getting old!

I cant handle the rides like I once did. The only reason I rode the first roller coaster two times in a row is because I was with a group of SR High and JR High guys - you know a macho thing. By the time we were half-way through the third roller-coaster ride I was screaming like a little girl and trying not to throw up in front of my group.

After lunch I did make it on one more roller coaster with a group of adults. But following this ride I grabbed another Pepsi and 3 Ibuprofen. I spent the last two hours of the day walking in and out of the shops. YES - I have become that guy - the guy I used to pick on when I was in youth group at an amusement park.

But that's okay. Walking in the shops and sitting on a park bench to people watch is fun to me. And while I watched the crowd I had a few thoughts running through my mind:

When did the mid-calf leg tattoo become so popular?
Shouldn't there be some type of park etiquette concerning dress?
Parents, if it takes two of you to drag your 6 year old out of the park while he is screaming at the top of his lungs and crying - you have a problem on your hands.
Teenagers have a lot of pericings.
I want to do an amusement park in one of those motorized scooters.
Amusement park ice-cream is always good.

~ Shane

July Parent Newsletter

2010-07-07T10:13:00.001-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More teens

Don't You Hate It?

2010-07-06T16:55:00.002-04:00

You know those nights when you go to bed, you're so tired you just want to forget everything and drift off to sleep? Last night was on of those nights for Holly and I. After an eventful weekend, we just wanted to get a good nights rest. So I did my normal security check of locking doors and windows and shutting off the lights and off to bed we go. As I am lying there a familiar conversation begins:

HOLLY: "Did you hear that?"

SHANE: "Grunt"

HOLLY: "Someones walking upstairs! I think you should go up there."

SHANE: "It's nothing."

Several seconds pass.

HOLLY: "What was that? I think I heard a car door shut. Maybe someone is outside."

SHANE: "No one is outside."

Eventually Holly drifts off to sleep but not me! No I am lying there thinking to myself: "What if someone is upstairs. What if someone is in the driveway. I better go check it out."

So I get up, and preform security check #2 while my lovely bride is now sound asleep. As I return to the bed I settle in and a few moments later I am now drifting off for a good nights sleep. You know the kind where you feel like you are floating in air. And then it happened. At 1:07 am we hear the loudest noise - someones breaking in!!!

Holly jumps up and runs to the kitchen window. I am trying to figure out if I am dreaming or if this is reality. After security check #3 we realize the shower caddy suction cups had lost their grip in the Master Bathroom - razors, soap, shaving cream all in the shower floor.

It's hard to sleep at night when your heart rate is up to about 185!

~ Shane

Recap of Student Life Groups

2010-07-06T11:22:00.002-04:00

Our Student Life Groups continue meeting weekly during the summer. Each week the teens seem to grow closer together and get more comfortable as a group. If your teen is not in a Life Group, contact me and I will help you get them plugged into a group this week.

Last night our our JR High Group focused on Matthew 9; The Calling of Matthew. We talked about the fact that everyone has had disappointments,bad attitudes, and imperfections. If Satan had his way, we would be stuck in our failures with no hope. We understood the unfortunate realization many people do get stuck. But God’s plan is different. We have hope because he loves us and wants us to be in a vibrant relationship with him—no matter how bad or unlovable we might be. He wants us connected relationally to other people too. We wrapped up our evening discussing ways we can keep our group from becoming a clique. Instead we want to focus on others joining a small group and growing in their faith and in relationships with others.

Our SR High students continued digging deeper in their discussion of Luke 9. Some of the follow up notes from our leaders are as follows:

We digested the end of Luke 9. Why are there 3 examples of Jesus telling people that following him was going to be very difficult? Plan on being homeless. Let someone else bury your dad; you follow Me. Don’t say goodbye to your family first; follow Me.We contrasted this with some of the more easily digestible phrases that Christians use today when we talk about becoming a Christian: ask Jesus to come into your heart; say a prayer, walk the aisle and invite Him in.

What did we take away from the lesson?
· Jesus has to be first. Saying, “I will follow you Jesus anywhere except…” is wrong.
· The American dream of a house with a white picket fence is not the Biblical goal for Christians. Following Jesus may put us in conflict with our friends and family who may think we’re foolish.
· Doing something that you’ve seen someone else do in obedience to Christ does not make you a Christ follower. Selling all you have and giving it to the poor, if that’s not what God’s told you, will make you a poor person who is still not following God. But don’t read that passage of scripture on the rich young ruler and think that applies to someone else either.
· Taking the small steps of faith now will result in an ever-growing faith that you will rely on later. The longer we ignore, discount, and rationalize away the urging of God, the worse we’re becoming at EVER listening to God and following Him. Start by taking the small steps that God is prompting you with now that might be to speak to a hurting person even though they’re not in your comfort zone. As you continue to follow God’s leading, you’ll learn how he speaks and will continue to be in better communication with Him and will not doubt as the duties become bigger.

If your teen is not in a Life Group, contact me and I will help you get them plugged into a group this week.

~ Shane

Life Groups Recap

2010-06-29T16:05:00.004-04:00

Monday night our students met in homes for their Life Groups. SR. High had some great discussion about what is judging and what is not based on Matthew 7:1-5. The JR High students looked at several passages of scripture - emphasizing the word "together". (Psalm 34:3, Matthew 18:20, & Colossians 3:12-14)

Both groups were challenged in different ways. For our JR High teens, the challenge was to work on creating a small group atmosphere where teens can share openly about their joys, concerns, or questions about their faith. Our SR High students were challenged to read Luke 9:57-62 and then go back and read Luke 9:1-56. Next week they will be digging into the cost of following Jesus.

Lessons Learned While On Vacation

2010-06-26T14:04:00.002-04:00

Recently my family returned from a week at Disney and Sea World in Florida. Here are a few things I realized while on vacation.

When Disney tells you "this ride may cause motion sickness" 10 times while you are waiting in line - they are not kidding!
If there can ever be a heat wave with record highs in Florida, it will be the week I am there on vacation.
Put me in an amusement park filled with thousands of people. Every overweight, sweaty, guy wearing their sleeveless shirt will find me and rub up beside me while walking in a crowd.
I held my girls hands more on vacation than I can remember. I need to do this more.
Turning off the cell phone and computer was one of the greatest freedoms while on vacation.
Invest in a good camera.
Disney claims to be "the happiest place on earth." There were a lot of parents I saw that needed to be reminded of this fact.
When you go to Sea World - go to Shamu Rocks - sit in the "Soak Zone". It's worth it.
Ladies - colored, spandex pants and water parks are not a good combination.
Mow your lawn before leaving for vacation. You will be sorry if you don't - trust me.

~ Shane

I Don't Like The B.M.I.

2010-06-23T13:46:00.003-04:00

Today I began a new routine - weight loss and workouts. That's right! Time to hit the YMCA. I got up a little earlier - put on my work out gear - grabbed what I thought was my blue & black Upward bag - and headed to the local "Y".

Once I arrived I checked in - went into the men's locker room - set down my bag only to realize the bag didn't have the cool, manly Upward logo - Nooooooo it had the girly Pampered Chef logo. Nice to realize that in the Men's Locker Room.

I left for the weight room - weighed myself - and hit the treadmill and weight circuit. After a quick shower and grabbing my clothes out of the girly Pampered Chef bag, right on cue - enter the old, guys who want to sit naked on the wooden bench waaaay to long and talk about how their garden efforts are panning out for the Summer.

I then headed into the office and pulled up the B.M.I. (Body Mass Index) website and entered my information. You've got to be kidding me - it has me listed as less than one point away from being obese! I'm 6' 4" - 36 years old and this thing tells me I should weigh 207 pounds. Are you crazy? I haven't seen 207 pounds in over 15 years and chances are I will not visit that territory again.

This whole changing my routine stuff is gonna kill me - and this is the first day!

~ Shane

Teen Small Groups

2010-06-22T11:26:00.003-04:00

I am excited about our Student Small Groups that kick off this month. Small Groups give teens an opportunity to go deeper in their faith; to talk out their faith; and to connect with other students and adult leaders.

Last night our High School Life Groups met. Our group leaders really challenged the Senior High. I was encouraged by an email I received from one of the group leaders today:

"...we're pushing them to go deep. . . really deep. Their homework is to read an entire gospel (their choice) and make notes of what happened each time Jesus met/talked with someone. But we also discussed that they are to approach this Bible reading with an attitude of learning more about Jesus as if they'd never heard about Him. So, we talked about some of the preconceptions that we have about Jesus' interaction with people (warm, loving, understanding, compassionate) and asked the to get rid of those as they read. They are to truly read the Gospel as if they'd never read or heard about it before...and is that means they only get through 2 chapters this week, then that is wonderful!"

Can't wait to see what God will do in the lives of our Senior High over the Summer as they grow together and grow closer in their relationship with God.

~ Shane

Vacation Recap

2010-06-22T09:25:00.004-04:00

We made it back from Disney/Sea World this past Saturday. The family had a great time while in Florida. We could have don without the heat - 102+ with the heat index. Makes for a fun day walking around an amusement park with a million other people.

It was hard leaving the Contemporary Resort. It's nice to have someone come in and clean the rooms for you every day.

It was so fun to watch the excitement on Kennidee's face as she met each Princess or Disney Character. And with Avreigh being out of the "lets see the characters" stage - it was fun to ride the rides with her and see her excitement after the thrill of a big roller coaster.

It was a great week away and all the thanks goes to my wife for working so hard to earn this trip for our family. She's the greatest!

View more pictures here.

~ Shane

My Hero

2010-06-19T18:43:00.007-04:00

As I ponder the love that I saw in his eyes, a Godly love, given without compromise I recall many times that he stood by my side, and prodded me on with great vigor and pride. His voice ever confident, firm and yet fair, always speaking with patience, tenderness and care. The power and might of his hands was so sure, I knew there was nothing we couldn't endure. It's true, a few others provided insight, yet he laid the foundation that kept me upright. He's the grandest of men to have lived on this earth, although he's not royal by stature or birth. He's a man of great dignity, honor and strength. His merits are noble, and of admirable length. He's far greater than all other men that I know, he's my Dad, he's my mentor, my friend and hero.

- Debbie Hinton Young

It's Almost Here

2010-06-09T15:44:00.002-04:00

We will be leaving for vacation shortly. I am ready for a week away with the girls. We're excited to be heading to the most magical place on earth - Disney!! During the week I will be "going dark" in the technology world. Facebook will be inactive. For the most part the blog will be silent. (Gotta post brief updates for the grandparents) The cell phone will be shut off.

Im looking forward to a week concentrating on making memories with the family.

~ Shane

Date Night Adventure

2010-06-05T21:13:00.006-04:00

My family moved to the Eastern Shore of Virginia last September. During that time, Holly and I have put our focus into settling the family, making sure the girls needs are met, rebuilding the student ministry, and establishing Holly's business. This has left little room for the two of us.

One thing Holly and I have valued in our marriage are date nights. Whether we head out with friends or go out alone; enjoy dinner and a movie or dessert and coffee - our dates allow the two of us to reconnect and focus on each other. This weekend Holly surprised me with a date night "overnighter" in Annapolis, Maryland.

We arrived in Annapolis early Friday afternoon and checked into our hotel. And once we arrived in the room we did what most married couples with young children do when they arrive at the hotel . . . . . took a nap!

We took a late afternoon River Tour around the bay followed by and outdoor dinner at Buddy's Crab's and Ribs. Following dinner - a stroll by the harbor and a visit to Kilwin's which brought back great memories of my favorite spot back home.

Saturday we slept late. (a rarity in our home) We eyed a brunch location we wanted to experience. So late Saturday morning we hit the popular Chick & Ruth's Delly. Man what a brunch - a crab omelet and a Philly steak and cheese omelet. The best! After a little shopping and sun down at the harbor - a quick stop at Nostalgia's Cupcakes for one final sweet treat.

Can my wife plan a great date or what?

~ Shane

June 2010 Parent Newsletter

2010-06-01T15:01:00.000-04:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More teens

Only Happens To Me

2010-05-25T12:36:00.005-04:00

Why does stuff like this always happen to me?

Everyone has gone to lunch. It's about 12:26 pm. I'm gonna take a late lunch so I am the only one in the office. There is a knock on the front office door. I thought to myself "Hmmm...not sure why someone is knocking because the door is unlocked." I decided to go answer.

There was an older lady, quite large, and in her pajamas. She asked if I could come outside to talk to her so she could be seated. I obliged and followed her a few steps to her car. Then came the words I was not prepared for - "I don't want to be gross but I need to show you something." I could feel it - you know the gag reflex in the back of your throat? Ohhh..... here it comes. What happened next has left me with permanent and emotional damage.

She began to pull up her shirt and show me the scars from her recent gastric bypass surgery. There it is - see I told you - that gag thing is kicking in isn't it?

I am not making this up - she needed toll money to get across the Bay Bridge and some money for gas. "All you have to do lady is ask - you don't have to pull up your shirt!" I thought to myself.

So you may be wondering how I handled the situation after the peep show. I politely informed her our pastor was out to lunch and he has the authority to make the decisions concerning benevolent situations. I further stated he should return to the office within the hour. At that time she is more than welcome to return; explain her situation to him; and he may be able to help. And I also told her seeing her scars was so effective when she told me her story that she should show it to the pastor during their conversation!

~ Shane

P.S.
Just kidding about telling a woman to pull up her shirt in front of the pastor. But I wanted too.

Closing Time

2010-05-06T09:19:00.005-04:00

Holly and I headed back home this past weekend. This was our last visit back to North Carolina as home owners. We were closing on our home. After a little over 7 months on the market our house sold and the deal is done.

I am thankful our house has sold in today's market. We could have experienced what many sellers are facing; having a house that sits on the market for months on end. We are happy the house sold to, what seems like, a great couple. But it is a bittersweet feeling as well.

The night before we closed on the property, Holly and I made a quick pass throughout the home to make sure everything was removed and the house was in move in condition for the new owners. As we made our walk thru - memories of many life moments came to mind. Avreigh's first day of school. Hanging out in the driveway with our neighbors. Neighborhood kids playing in the back yard. The girls climbing trees. Driveway cookouts. Kennidee crying the entire first year of her life. We had a front porch swing. I loved sitting in that swing in the evenings. Especially while it was raining. A lot of memories filled that home.

Holly and I miss Granite Falls. We miss our neighbors The Phelps, The Martin's, The Edwards, and The Church's (what's up y'all) But we realize during this transition in our life we will always have memories of a great time in our lives filled with close friends from the hood!

May Parent Newsletter

2010-04-28T15:10:00.000-04:00

Youth Minister Scoreboard

2010-04-15T14:52:00.006-04:00

Saw this interesting note on another blog today. Thought it was pretty interesting.

Below you will find statements about youth ministers. I encourage you to score your youth minister. Together, we’ll give the fascinating creature known as the “youth minister” the attention they deserve.

They have a goatee. = +1 point
They’ve had a “talking to” from the elders. = +2 points per each talking to
They work at another job because they love the youth but can’t afford to live on the salary the church pays. = +100 points
They have rapped at youth group before. = +1 point
They have rapped at “big church” before = +2 points
They are no longer invited to big church. = +3 points
They are known to regularly cheat at youth group games because they want to win. = +2 points
They have been known to wear fanny packs on mission trips. = -3 points
They once made someone pee in a Mountain Dew bottle because they didn’t want to stop during a road trip. = +3 points
They are the church’s version of a centaur, half youth minister/half worship leader and know how to play acoustic guitar. = +2 points
Often tells you that they “married up.” = +1 point
Often tells you how “hot” their wife is. = +2 points
Once convinced the church to pay for an official youth group event that may have involved going to a U2 concert. = +15 points
Justifies iPad purchase as “something I need because a lot of my students have one.” = +3 points
Dresses 12 years younger than their actual age. = -2 points
80% of their wardrobe consists of free t-shirts from camps and conferences. = +1 point
Had to explain to church elders that a summer mission trip is not the same thing as a vacation. = +2 points
Can easily distinguish Dr. Pepper from Dr. Thunder in a blind taste test. = +1 point
Proactively shaved his head to hide the fact that he is going bald. = +2 points
Believes no youth retreat is complete without a “fear factor” session, complete with habanero peppers and beef & peas baby food. = +3 points
Owns Justin Bieber CD because it helps them relate to students, but secretly loves it. = +2 points
Considers any game that does not end with at least one person vomiting to be a personal failure. = +2 points
Found a way to get the youth group room outfitted with a better sound system than the sanctuary. = +2 points
Had to sign a legally binding document with the church administration that they would not go near the baptismal again. = +3 points
Knows how to multiply cheap pizza almost as well as Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish. = +3 points
Buys shaving cream and marshmallows in bulk at Costco. = +3 points
Is often asked by parents, “What do you do all week?” = +3 points
Ruined their cellphone when they were throw into a pool/lake/crick by the students. = +3 points
Prior to joining the church staff, the office they have was called by it’s correct name, “Closet.” = +3 points
Does more things with Duct tape than McGuyver. = +2 points
Had someone in the church ask, “Do you think someday you’ll want to be a ‘real’ minister?” = +10 points
Owns a Nerf gun that is so big they had to register it with the state. = +3 points

Funny Stuff! Just in case you are wondering what the score means:

0-10 Points: Temporary Help

You’re not a youth minister. You’re a random person at church that was temporarily asked to help out with the students. You actually kind of don’t like teenagers and are counting the days until they hire someone full time.

11 – 30 Points: Amateur Hour

You wouldn’t know how to lob a roll of toilet paper in a perfect tree covering arc if it came up and bit you. You think Lady Gaga is the sister of Lady Antebellum and your car is way to nice to be owned by a youth minister.

31 – 50 Points: Minor Leagues

Now we’re talking. You’ve been to a Skillet concert or two. This isn’t your first goatee (unless you’re a lady.) You know the joys of discount pizza and off brand sodas. Congrats, you’re in the minor leagues of youth ministry.

51+ Points: Legend

Seminaries have classes dedicated to your escapades. Your work on the Johnson house in 2008 is still discussed at the Charmin factory headquarters. You’ve put so many kids in your car it made Circus clown cars seem lazy. You are a legend my friend. You will go down in the Youth Minister Hall of Fame.

~ Shane

Made The Change

2010-04-14T14:07:00.003-04:00

Got a new Mac Book Pro to use in the office. Unbelievable video and pic editing, not to mention Garage Band for music editing. A little learning curve but well worth it.

~ Shane

History and the Law

2010-04-09T20:54:00.003-04:00

I caught up with the family in Williamsburg, VA yesterday. We met in the historic town as Holly and the girls were on their way back from a visit to North Carolina. We had a great time today touring Colonial Williamsburg. Interesting conversation today that had nothing to do with history:

Kennidee: "Daddy can we go swimming when we get back to the hotel?"

Shane: "I'm not sure. We will see."

Kennidee: "Daddy! We have to go swimming. Its the law!"

Shane: "Really - what law?"

Kennidee: "Its the law. Jesus said it!"

Not sure what book of the Bible this law is found.

~Shane

Summer Calendar

2010-04-07T17:08:00.001-04:00

Hot off the presses - the OBC Student Ministry Summer Calendar is now available.

April Parent Newsletter

2010-04-06T14:03:00.000-04:00

Easter Plunge

2010-04-04T20:07:00.005-04:00

This afternoon I had an opportunity to cruise the bay by kayak. These canuck kayak's take a little getting used too. I was not aware of this fact to begin with. So I entered the boat, I steadied myself, gathered the rest of my gear, and pushed away from the dock. Sure I was a little shaky but I can get the hang of it. Then it happened - Man Overboard!!! Into the cold waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

My buddy was laughing as he pulled me out. He then told me of all the women that scoot around in this type of water craft. "That's it! This claustrophobic boat is not going to whip me. Put it in the water again!"

I got in for a second attempt. After about 10 minutes I began to get a little more comfortable and headed out to the wharf where I was meeting Dr. Chick; his son (who happens to be a Citadel Cadet - no pressure to keep up there); and one of my teens.

When I got back to the dock I realized a few things from the days experience:

Canuck Kayaks are not designed for big, tall, fat boys
Kayaking while wearing wet shorts, socks, and shoes - not the greatest idea
I should have remembered to take my Blackberry out of my pocket. Now it is in a bag of long grain wild rice.
When you tip over in a boat; don't grab the post of the dock - the barnacles are sharp
The Citadel Cadet and the High School Junior will always be faster in their kayaks

Despite the cold dip, cuts on my hand and forearm, and the ride home sitting on a towel in my wet clothes, I did have a great time out on the water. A few more trips and I should be comfortable enough to take my wife and kids out. I am sure that event will will lend itself to a few memorable stories.

~ Shane

Easter Festival Recap

2010-04-03T20:50:00.003-04:00

A great day at OBC's Easter Festival. I had a fun time hanging with people from the church and meeting new people in the community. Went through a lot of popcorn and sno-cones. It was amazing to see how quickly 5000 Easter eggs can be found by community children.

~Shane

Slow Churned Goodness

2010-04-02T19:58:00.005-04:00

Holly and the girls have gone back home to North Carolina for Spring Break. So while I am on my own here on the Shore I have a few responsibilities. One of those is getting groceries. So this evening a quick visit to the local Food Lion for some "man groceries". Among the buggy full of steak, baked potatoes, chips, and IBC Root Beer - the new item coming into the house - Edy's Samoa Girls Scout Cookie Ice Cream.

You think the Girl Scout version of this is good? Try the ice cream!

Off With Her Head

2010-03-30T19:51:00.005-04:00

My youngest daughter has the kind of bedroom slippers that have a character's head on the feet. Dora the Explorer to be exact. But tonight something went horribly wrong. She came in with a shocked look on her face as she was holding Dora's head in her hand.

Dora the left foot slipper will be undergoing extensive surgery this weekend. In lieu of cards and flowers, a beneficiary fund "replace Dora's big head on my left foot" has been set up in Dora's honor to cover increasing health care cost.

~Shane

Weekend Recap

2010-03-28T19:50:00.005-04:00

Mom came in this weekend for a visit and to celebrate Avreigh's Birthday. It was great to see her and we had a lot of fun touring the Eastern Shore. Here are a few pics from the weekend.

Tonight for dinner - Mom's homemade chicken pie!!

~ Shane

The In-Laws Are Coming!

2010-03-23T09:31:00.006-04:00

Most guys would probably panic because the in-laws are coming to stay for a few days. But I have great in-laws and always enjoy their visits. And it doesn't hurt they realize I am the greatest Son-in-law and tell me that on a regular basis....okay I may be pushing it a little, but we always have a great time together.

Last weekend we celebrated Avreigh's 9th Birthday. We had great weather and a lot of fun hanging out at the house and taking a road trip to Ocean City, MD. (By the way, just in case you are wondering - MD stands for Maryland not Medical Doctor. Just thought I would point that out to make sure everyone was aware of the abbreviation I was referring too. Inside Joke!) None the less we had a great time. This weekend my mom arrives on the shore. Should be another fun weekend with family!

~ Shane

Party #1

2010-03-16T09:58:00.002-04:00

Last weekend we had an early celebration for Avreigh's 9th birthday. This was an opportunity for her friends from school and church to get together at the local YMCA and have fun. This weekend is her actual birthday. We will have fun celebrating as a family.

~ Shane

SAT Meeting Day One

2010-03-11T19:07:00.002-05:00

Meet all day with 10 other Student Pastors from across the commonwealth of Virginia. It has been a pretty busy day. Convened in a conference room to discuss the upcoming major events that will take place in 2011. Had a great time discussing ideas, sharing resources, addressing ministry challenges, and looking at ministry philosophies and approaches.

Studentz Camp, YEC (Youth Evangelism Conference), Mission Trips, and Mission Plants were all evaluated and talked over. Some of the possible Conference Speakers: Tony Nolan, David Nasser, Francis Chan, and Greg Steer. Possible Concert Bands: Skillet, Crowder, Fee, Fireflight, and Lecrae. We got a lot accomplished today.

Now - back in the hotel room - UNC & Georgia Tech @ 7 pm - Survivor @ 8 pm.

Day two begins at 8:30 am - heading home later tomorrow afternoon. Can't wait to see the girls!

~ Shane

Motorcycle Crash In Church

2010-03-11T00:15:00.003-05:00

Some Youth Pastors will try anything.

Can't see the video? Click Here

Made It To Richmond

2010-03-10T23:39:00.002-05:00

Rolled into Richmond, VA tonight for a meeting over the next two days. I have a neat opportunity to be a part of the Student Advisory Team of the SBC of Virginia. Over the next couple of days we will be discussing and planning future SBCV Ministry Events such as Studentz Camp, YEC, the Student Pastor's Retreat, Mission trips, and networking.

As I walked into the Comfort Suites lobby, Roger greeted me and proceeded with check in. After asking for my name, he saw my confirmation info and realized I was a part of the SBCV Group. "Southern Baptist Conservatives huh? I keep trying to tell you guys the word conservative is not in the Bible. But liberal is!"

Isn't religious humor so funny after being at work all day, driving three + hours, and arriving at your hotel at 11:30 pm? (note the sarcasms)

~ Shane