Disqus - Latest Comments for eric

Re: Twitter Church

eric — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 12:13:46 -0000

AMAZING!

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » To Pay or Play or Maybe Just Pray

eric — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:21:28 -0000

WOW!!! What an awesome conversation!

Obviously, (as seen by the varying opinions expressed in this blog)
like most things in ministry, it seems to be a case by case, Church by Church decision.

I like the way it appears that New Life is doing it (desperation). Some are paid, some are not. (I think that's what they do).

In a dream world, where money isn't an issue, I think everyone should get paid (or not paid).

"And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need." Acts 2:44-45 (NASV)

Sounds good to me!

But alas, we don't live in that world, do we? Therefore, I think it all depends on the vision and priorities of your Church. Is hospitality important? Then pay the greeters. Is Children's ministry important? Then pay the teachers. Is the preaching of the Word and/or leadership important? Then pay the Pastors. Is music/worship important? Then pay the stinkin' musicians!

Of course all of this has to be done with discernment and much prayer. You wouldn't hire a new Pastor without spending time getting to know him and his vision/passions/commitments. Why would you hire a musician without doing the same?

As far as CCLI goes, I look at it as paying for the quality arrangements and recordings that come from a good producer and a top notch recording studio environment. Ever spent time in a studio? Money!!!

Either way, I hope that if you're paying a Worship Leader/Pastor that he/she is creating something more than just a copy of the original artists' music... hopefully you're getting a leader, an artist, a worship leader! And not every worship leader out there is playing only covers.

So... this conversation has gone on so long that no one will probably even read my response, so let me leave you with a parting question to ponder... no response required.

Did the Levites get paid for their musical services?

Eric

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Fat Ragamuffin Returns

eric — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 03:16:33 -0000

Dig the shorts... what kind of boat were you on???

When I was in college I got up at 6:00am and went to the gym for an hour, ate a breakfast of fruit, water and a muffin, swam for an hour, surfed for 3 hours, ate a lunch that consisted of a teriyaki chicken rice bowl and water and then pulled carts at Costco for about 8 hours and ate whatever I wanted for dinner every Monday thru Thursday. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, I still worked, but ate and did whatever I wanted.

I lost 3 percent of my body fat in 1 month. I was in the best shape of my life. About a month ago, I weighed in at close to 200lbs (I'm 5'11")... I started surfing again (once a week). I'm now down to about 180.

exercise, exercise, exercise!!!

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Two…

eric — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:56:08 -0000

Decatur, Georgia huh... I'm in Birmingham at the Desperation Conference right now. I was pretty close to Decatur when I arrived here (flew into Atlanta).

We just finished an incredible session lead by Pastor Chris Hodges (Church of the Highlands). He challenged the Youth to stop playing games with Christianity and do something extreme for Christ. Extreme Prayer, Extreme Purity, Extreme Passion with an Extreme Purpose. Jesus never did anything moderately, why should we? It's only this radical life in Christ that will rescue this next generation from death to life!

I don't normally post on this blog, but I get the sense that something extreme is about to happen here... I know it is in my life.

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Space Time

eric — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 04:00:50 -0000

56... I too was a NES Track and Field Freak!

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » To See The Future

eric — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 13:44:55 -0000

Love it...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » What’s Next for Ragamuffin Soul?

eric — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 13:46:58 -0000

ragamuffin tv huh? Can't wait...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » My Top Ten Online Creative Spots… And Why You Should Take A Dump

eric — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 23:34:27 -0000

Great stuff!!! Now I've got to go take a dump...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » SDWC Update #4 - Francis

eric — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:59:19 -0000

No joke on Chan. I worked the main stage at NYWC in San Diego this year. Check out the picture...

http://ericbeeman.blogspot.com/2007/10/nywc_25....

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge - Day One

eric — Wed, 28 May 2008 02:41:33 -0000

Wow!!! lots of feedback on this one. I'm in yo... I went on a cruise about a month ago and put on 10lbs. Haven't been able to get rid of it.

I'm the kind of guy that needs a goal/challenge to keep me going so the marathon sounds good, but what about a triathlon?

Last summer my buddy challenged me to a sprint tri. I think you could do it Los! I saw guys way heavier than you finishing the Tri. I only trained for about 2 weeks last summer and finished right in the middle of the pack...

http://ericbeeman.blogspot.com/2007/08/is-430am...

Jew Can Do It!

I'm at 178lbs
Goal 165lbs

f.y.i. I actually stayed about the same weight when I trained for the tri, but I slimmed out a ton! People who haven't seen me since the tri still ask if I've lost weight...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge - Day One

eric — Wed, 28 May 2008 02:51:02 -0000

18 weeks to train for a sprint triathlon? You can do it! Go for the tri!

http://ericbeeman.blogspot.com/2007/09/i-finish...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Are We Fat?

eric — Thu, 29 May 2008 03:10:24 -0000

5'11" and I weigh 178lbs

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Team Whittaker’s Memorial Day

eric — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:34:10 -0000

my son has those same shorts! must be a so-cal thing...

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Ragamuffintop Challenge - Week One

eric — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 13:07:46 -0000

I gained weight this week! But like you said, I think it's all muscle... uh... yeah... that's it, muscle!

Is that like the icing on top of the muffin top?

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Dude. Seriously. This Is Rad.

eric — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:33:31 -0000

Did you just use "Dude", "Seriously" & "Rad" in the same sentence? I don't care if you are in the ATL you're defintely SO-CAL.

And who's Don Moen anyway? (just kidding... kind of) ;)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » That One Song

eric — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:40:22 -0000

"Meant to live" - Switchfoot...
Not necessarily a new song, but new to us.

Youth group loves this one...
"King of Majesty" - Hillsong

I love this one...
"In Your Freedom" - Hillsong

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Creative Chaos // 14

eric — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:20:48 -0000

did a process post... ;)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge // 3

eric — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:22:18 -0000

I'm with you on the no soda Tim. But did I hear someone say "No In-N-Out"... I don't know if I can pull that one off.

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge // 4

eric — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:54:50 -0000

I've lost 10.4lbs since this thing started but I kind of cheated this week... Check out this site to see how to do it right. http://www.healthsteward.com/index.php

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Sing To Me

eric — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:58:01 -0000

Lenny Kravitz... "in my life today"

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge 7

eric — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 21:00:56 -0000

It's all about the shoes Yo! Shoes and Inserts. I started running last summer and my feet just about fell off until I got the right shoes and appropriate inserts.

Don't give up on the weight loss... Lose the weight and the feet won't take such a beating. Smaller plates = smaller portions = smaller waist... ;)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Twitter To The Next President

eric — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:26:21 -0000

I'd ask him why Los hasn't posted his muffin-top challenge this week... ;)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » RagamuffinTop Challenge // 10

eric — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 02:08:07 -0000

Ahhh... it feels good to be back. Look for my current post on Monday.

Keep it up man... it's encouraging to watch you succeed!

Re: Would You Like Some Butter With That Roll?!!

eric — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:52:20 -0000

Bro... A ton of good advice here. Lifestyle change (for sure), WW (good concept), eat less food but more frequently (very healthy), etc.

For me, setting goals has worked the best. I sign up for at least one Triathlon a year. That way it's in the back of my head all the time... "I've got to run a triathlon in a few months, weeks, days..."

Now I have an excuse to stay in shape. If I don't, I'm going to kill myself the day of the triathlon. Without a goal, I'm not even motivated.

That's just what works for me... someone else said, "you've got to do what works for you." Ditto...

Re: Let’s Grow A Pair

eric — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 22:47:56 -0000

Hmmm... Love it... really got me thinking.

I think I often cling to what Peter says "be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within you..." my rationale is that if nobody's asking the question, then why should I be giving the answer?

Isn't that what Jesus did? His reputation preceeded Him and people wanted to know what He was all about. Then He responded to their inquiries... Same with Paul. In fact, Jesus' use of parables was intented to disguise the truth from those who weren't really interested. Mark 4 (look it up)

I want to know why our reputations don't have more people asking us about the hope that lies within us? Why do we have to be on the verbal offensive all the time.

Just being honest... Maybe not what you wanted to hear, but honest.

Too many times I've proselytized out of compulsion from man rather than compulsion from God. I am in no way suggesting that is what happened here. I truly believe that God compelled that man to give him the Bible and if He compels you to do the same, by all means "be ready" to do so!

Re: Final Promotion in the Shift Campaign

eric — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:38:26 -0000

Hey Marcus... I shot over here from Carlos's page. I gotta ask, how did you imbed your excel production schedule into your webpage. That's sweet!

Eric

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 4

eric — Wed, 23 May 2007 16:24:33 -0000

Love it... Mark 1:15 - His first message... "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel."

His last message... Mark 16:15 "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."

Do you think we should preach anything else?

Re: Praise the Lord, I saw the Light!

eric — Wed, 23 May 2007 16:33:54 -0000

I played music for a funeral on Tuesday. I was asked to do the Alan Jackson version of the following songs. How do you say no to someone who's just lost their mothers. So I learned the following songs off of Alan Jacksons album titled "precious memories"...

What a friend we have in Jesus
How great Thou art
I want to stroll over heaven with you
When we all get to heaven
I saw the light

I didn't grow up going to Church on a regular basis and/or learning the old Hymns. The Church I got saved in was very contemporary and didn't sing any old hymns. Over the last few years, as a Worship Pastor I've had people ask me time and time again to do this hymn or that hymn. I've always dreaded it because I thought they were outdated, boring, and to be honest, too complex.

This last week, having to learn all of those hymns and listening to Alan Jacksons version of them, I learned to appreciate them for their rich lyrics. Not to mention, there's just something about country/bluegrass music that draws you in. It's like a familiar place that you've forgotten about but are so happy to stumble upon once again.

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 4

eric — Wed, 23 May 2007 16:49:06 -0000

Does preaching the gospel have to be relegated to the oral tradition, or can it be done in other ways?

Many of you have heard about the band "Ten Shekel Shirt". Their album "Much" was released in 2001 with the #1 radio hit "Ocean" (still heard on Air1 today). Many of you have heard me do the song "Unashamed Love" from that album as well. It quickly became a favorite @ Life Church in the early years.

Well, I just learned that the lead singer took a break from music in 2002. He started an orgainzation that deals with the abolition of child slavery, worldwide. Now he's back in the music scene and releasing not one, but two new albums in the fall. One to the secular industry and one to the Christian...

What do you think about them apples??? Is he preaching the gospel in 3 different arenas or... is he just really confused with what to do with his life???? ;)

Check him out at...

http://www.myspace.com/lamonthiebert

Re: Praise the Lord, I saw the Light!

eric — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 15:47:11 -0000

We're doing "Pass me not o gentle Savior" this weekend... the Bart Millard Version from "Hymned No. 1". Listen to a clip here...

http://www.independentbands.com/cd/bartmillard/...

Re: worship confessional 1

eric — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:04:47 -0000

I see how it is... rip on Eric because he's not around anymore...

Not to mention the fact that you're so embarrassed to be seen with me that you blacked my face out in your header picture. ;)

I'm feelin' the love!

Re: Worship Confessional #2 (finally)

eric — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:05:01 -0000

Karl's stinkin' loud!!!!

Re: Journey to the Darkside is Complete

eric — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 16:41:24 -0000

Mine's coming tomorrow...!!!

Re: Journey to the Darkside is Complete

eric — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 16:43:33 -0000

Vince... why doesn't it surprise me that you would call him a quitter? Get with the new millenium already. I've been playing with the powerbook for at least 3 months now. ;) I'm so frickin' cool!

Re: :( Mac Update

eric — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 16:45:15 -0000

'ahhh...' sigh of relief.

Re: :( Mac Update

eric — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 00:52:03 -0000

Got mine yesterday. Lovin' it. It's so clean and shiny (and that's what's important)!

Have you figured out how to use the isight for video yet? I know it's possible, just haven't figured it out yet.

By the way Jay, have you picked up Office for Mac yet? If so, then there should be nothing stopping you from doing all of that boring work that you do on your Dell, right there on your MacBook. ;)

Re: Aviom is here!

eric — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:45:32 -0000

Sweet!!!

We're actually using in-ears without the wireless system. Just go down to radio shack and pick up some high-end earbuds and an adapter and you're good to go (actually, you should have 3 sets of Shure E-1s).

Here's what I've learned in the last few months... 16 channels seem like a lot, but you'd be surprised at how fast it goes, especially when you have different vocalists each weekend.

We started off with the whole drum kit in the mix and realized that it takes up too much space. Sooo... we went to just the kick, snare and overhead. That leaves 13 channels...

4 vocals
2 keyboard
2 a-guitars
1 bass
2 e-guitars
2 lapel mics (can't hear them with the ears in... and they're great for communiation if you need them).

I'd like to get two crowd mics in there somewhere because it sucks not being able to hear them respond. We'll see...

Also, might need to crank the send to the units. There are times when I've got my master control maxed out and I have to ask the sound guy to crank the send on specific instruments (or overall).

It's always good to spend some time teaching people how to use their controls. They're so simple, but you'd be surprised how many people have trouble dialing them in.

The biggest problem we have now with the in-ears is that our stage noise is so low that the drums overpower the house sound... They have to crank up the house speakers because they're not aided by the floor wedges anymore... :0 Who would have thought??? (Remember Charlie Hall @ Horizon?)

I'm stoked for you guys!!! And a little jealous! ;)

Re: Tech Confessional #3

eric — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:51:21 -0000

Crazy!!! congratulations!

Don't let your wife know that you were doing tech stuff while you were supposed to be hanging with the kid!

You'll learn... ;)

Re: Boys Sleeping

eric — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:56:51 -0000

Can you say... "I wish I was in the womb."?

Re: Mac vs. PC

eric — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 03:01:44 -0000

The verdict is still out for me. However, I'd say that if your mac is crashing on you, you should consider sending it back... It has a warranty, right? Doesn't seem right.

I've only worked on a G5, a Powerbook and now the Macbook Pro. But I've never had one crash on me. Sometimes the G5 would lock up on me when we were running Pro-Tools, but I'd just wait a little while and it'd come right out of it.

I hate to say it, but I kind of agree with Fred... show her the love! ;)

Re: New Life Worship

eric — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 02:40:39 -0000

Yup... I'm still not sure how the whole Ted Haggart thing is sitting with me. Things that make you go 'hmmmm..."

Still love what they're doing... Are you going to the Desperation Conference with me in Birmingham??? My wife said you mentioned something about it.

Re: New Life Video

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:50:56 -0000

Always makes me cry... You should do a follow-up video with the people explaining their stories...

Tears...

Re: New Life Video

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:52:12 -0000

Don't you have Gil and Lisa's story on tape? Post it! ;)

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 6

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:04:47 -0000

My tech people and I love them... thanks, you rock!

I officially took the wheel of the media ship this weekend! The previous tech lady said that it was so hard for her to let go, but she's glad she did... me too...

Now to find an Alex to replace her (and me)... ;)

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 6

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:07:20 -0000

Sorry, the previous was supposed to go into the video backgrounds section... Dough!!!

I love the fact that brothers are telechinetic (spelling???)

Re: New Video Backgrounds

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:08:14 -0000

Our Church loves the video backgrounds... especially the new ones... ;)

Re: Worship Confessional #8

eric — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:08:15 -0000

Love it...

I had people greet one another after the first song just out of habit this last weekend and got reamed by our announcement lady because it screwed up her whole plan for announcements somehow. She later apologized, but it helped me realize the importance of pre-service communication and "sticking to the plan".

I don't think we realize the importance of communication and planning. It's not my strength by any means, but I'm learning. I think I just enjoy flying by the seat of my pants too much... not always a good thing. In fact, I'm not sure it's ever a really good thing!

Re: Interactive Church at Life

eric — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:15:15 -0000

I think that Day 7 (Greg Laurie's Church) has something like that going on. The problem that I've noticed with it is that I usually watch it a day later or something so I've never used the chat box.

I like the idea of rewarding them for watching via internet. That makes sense!

Re: Mac vs. PC: Round 6

eric — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 21:20:51 -0000

I'd send it back... or try getting rid of firefox. It never worked properly on the G5 that we had...

I agree with Fred... I think you're cursed! ;)

"Choose this day, blessing (MAC) or cursing (PC)" I think it actually says that somewhere in Dueteronomy.

Maybe you just need to commit! ;)

Re: Mac vs. PC: Round 6

eric — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 01:24:08 -0000

Hey, did you know that the macbook has a touch sensative pad? It's just 2 fingers instead of one!!!

Sorry, I just realized that... you probably already new...

That proves it... this thing really is better than a pc!

Re: Mac vs. PC: Round 6

eric — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 23:55:17 -0000

ahhh... i beg to differ. I think the mouse pad is better because you don't have to wonder whether you've actually activated it or not. If you have 2 fingers on it, it's activated. The PC touchpad always has you wondering... did I hit it right, is it activated, etc.

I think it's better... but that's just the mouse pad. ;)

Re: 2 Tickets on the Hot Tamale Train

eric — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 01:23:17 -0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVOJjAmiEQY

Re: Worship Confessional #9

eric — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 19:38:07 -0000

I love lookin' at Karl's gear!!! ;)

Re: Media Tip: Make those screens Pop! part 1 of 3

eric — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 13:29:47 -0000

Love it... I like to keep it to 2-3 lines per screen which gets difficult when you're doing wordy songs, but it's worth it. I'm finding that it's not too hard to do if you just sing the song while you're creating it. Cut it off where you take breaths.

I think the key to making some of this work is training your PP Pushers (I just made that up). I mean the people who are running the PowerPoint or ProPresenter or whatever on Sundays. I make sure the PP Pushers are there for sound check every week so that they get to go through the set at least once before we start service. I know some of you have them at your practices which is even better.

Can't wait to see part 2...

Re: Life Gets Fit

eric — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 13:33:16 -0000

At Church of the Highlands (and New Life) they have an Intern program called 24:7. One of the things they do together everyday is work out. They start the morning with a jog and then hit the gym. I think it's a great idea because it not only keeps you healthy (which helps your mind work better), but it creates comradery.

Love it!

Re: Worship Confessional #10

eric — Sun, 12 Aug 2007 01:14:08 -0000

It's good to see that Rob is finally playing with you guys... Tell him that I said 'hi'! and 'finally!'

Re: Worship Confessional #11

eric — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 02:50:31 -0000

Can you convince my wife that my beard is cool too?

Re: Karl’s Rant

eric — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 03:07:01 -0000

He just shared that and more with some people in our worship ministry. The guys a genius...

And if you think that was intense, you should hear him explain his rig!!!

Re: Pet Peeve: Poking my Thumb with the High E-String

eric — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:47:55 -0000

Ouch!!! I hate it when that happens! It feels like it's going all the way to the bone!

Re: Pet Peeve: Poking my Thumb with the High E-String

eric — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:48:53 -0000

I know you just wanted to give the Takamine some props with that photo... don't kid yourself... ;)

Re: 80’s Guitar God

eric — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 12:40:07 -0000

That's so funny! I was just watching that on "The Weekly Daily" and thinking, "this sucks". Now that I've seen the original, I totally get it! Hilarious! Ahh... the wonders of modern technology.

Missed you this morning...

Re: Caught in the Act

eric — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 02:40:29 -0000

And he cut his hair!!!

Re: Caught in the Act

eric — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 02:41:03 -0000

Hey, what's with the "Folgende Tags sind erlaubt:"? ;)

Re: Need Your Input

eric — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 19:47:32 -0000

How about, "communicating change"... Did you watch 722 last month? Big change... Bigger communication...

Re: We’re the Best Church Ever (Worship Confessional 20)

eric — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 05:18:35 -0000

What??? Karl, too loud? ;)

Re: P.U!

eric — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 05:19:52 -0000

Awesome!!!

Re: The Best of Halloween

eric — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 19:06:06 -0000

Yeah... ours would have been great if someone hadn't stood us up! jk... it was still great. But there was an extremely freaky block (the whole block) down the street. Scared the crap out of Joshua...

He was sad that he didn't get to hang out with Miles...

Re: Happy (belated) Birthday Dad!

eric — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:19:42 -0000

I love him too... and he's not even my dad!

Re: Almost Home & Vacation

eric — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:57:29 -0000

I'm so excited for you guys... when do I get to come visit?

Re: I was lied to…

eric — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 01:53:53 -0000

Absolutely! Unless otherwise specified.

Re: Music in Church

eric — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 03:42:34 -0000

I think one of the main purposes of music in the Church today is to unify people in declaring God's goodness... Music has the power to bring our corporate hearts and minds into focus on one thing. I pray that at most Churches that one thing is Jesus and God's overwhelming greatness.

Look at the examples in the Old Testament. Many times it seems that music is used as a calling and a declaration of Gods goodness. It's almost as if the musicians are saying "Hey everyone... God is here and He is good. You should join us in declaring that fact!"

There are also examples of David using music to soothe the soul as he did when Saul became sick.

No matter how you use it, music is powerful.

Re: Job Change (well at least a Title change)

eric — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:35:36 -0000

Your the right guy for the job. I'm excited for you.

The greatest resource that I've discovered over the last year is... um... well... pray. I don't mean before and after your meals, before you go to bed or even at a prayer meeting. I mean all of that and then some.

I've seen God do some incredible things over the last year through intense, fervent prayer. I mean sit down... no, no, no... kneel down and spend some serious time praying about one thing.

This last weekend was a result of much prayer... not negotiations, not debate, not even consensus, but prayer and prayer alone.

It's what grew Life Church in the first place and I believe it's what will do it again.

Re: New Year’s Resolutions

eric — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:38:51 -0000

Check my latest post on New Years Resolutions...

Re: 2008 Blogroll Housecleaning

eric — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:49:32 -0000

I'm in...

Re: 2008 Blogroll Housecleaning

eric — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:50:03 -0000

I mean... I'm in...

Re: 2008 Blogroll Housecleaning

eric — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:51:01 -0000

I mean... I suck... Maybe I shouldn't get any link love!

Re: 2008 Blogroll Housecleaning

eric — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:51:59 -0000

Then again, you're the one that got me into this frickin' addicting thing we call blogging in the first place. You better give me some link love!

Re: Stumble Find: Art with a Message

eric — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:54:05 -0000

Where is it?

Re: Huckabee on Bass

eric — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 00:09:25 -0000

Did you notice the normal bass player playing in the background???

Re: Let the Shredding Begin!

eric — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 00:10:33 -0000

I'm in...

Re: Ducks vs. Leafs

eric — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 21:11:52 -0000

It's like the UFC on crack! I love it.

Re: Worship “Plants”

eric — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 02:28:09 -0000

definitely plant... I have always encouraged people with the fact that they are just as much a worship leader as I am regardless of whether they're on stage or not.

Our choir director, JDubb had a cool vision for this. He would encourage us to strategically place our things (Bibles, purses, jackets) in the congregation so that when we were done with our songs we could intermingle with the crowd.

Basically, he was strategically placing us as worship leaders in the congregation, so that during worship we could spur on others to worship by example.

I think it's a great idea. When you're choir's not singing on stage, encourage them to be an example and sing in the seats!

Re: Worship “Plants”

eric — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:01:52 -0000

I love what Fred is saying here. I've noticed a difference between our first and second services. It's funny, because our first service is a more "spiritually mature" group of individuals and our second is less mature. Which would lead you to think the 1st service would be more expressive in their worship, right? Not at our Church. I think it has something to do with the people's inclinations/gifts. We do the same set, same band, usually same energy both services. 2nd service is way more expressive.

Re: Going Green Grocery Shopping

eric — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:04:18 -0000

You been watching Oprah?

Re: Creflo Dollar on Nightline - betterthanblank

eric — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:13:54 -0000

Love it Vince...

This one's a little lighter...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhLCus0tsmw

Re: 6:00am Sunday

eric — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:16:48 -0000

sleeping... ;)

Re: iChat from Bahrian (Middle East)

eric — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:10:35 -0000

Go get 'em Chris. Miss you bro!

Be safe!

Re: Church Environments 1

eric — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:12:15 -0000

That kind of looks like your setup... without the spandex of course... ;)

I can't wait to see the next set of photos. Anyway you could send me the same zip file?

Re: Worship Environments 3

eric — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 03:18:16 -0000

Don't be covetious; I'm sure they've got larger debt than you guys too... ;)

Re: Why I Cry Every Sunday Night

eric — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:23:44 -0000

Yup! Actually... no... :(

My wife won't watch it with me anymore because she's tired of crying every Sunday night!

I tell you what, many times I've watched this show and thought, "wow, I want to do something like that with my life. What kind of a Christian am I anyway?"

It's an amazing show...

Re: Typical Worship Experience?

eric — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:30:31 -0000

I think I tend to plan well, but many times I change plans at the last minute.

I would actually love to have a team that I could fly by the seat a little more. When you're working with volunteers though, it's kind of tough.

I can't tell you how many times I'll be sitting in a message and hear the Pastor make a point and think, "oh, this song would nail that point!"

I think the problem for a lot of worship leaders is that their Pastor doesn't plan well which makes it hard for them to plan well which leads to a lot of flying by the seat... if you know what I mean.

Re: Cars Movie Night! - betterthanblank

eric — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:52:27 -0000

Looks like they had a blast! Thanks for the invite... :P)) ;)

Re: Worship Environments 5

eric — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:38:20 -0000

I was way fatter back then! ;)

Re: Music Monday (and you thought I forgot)

eric — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:54:23 -0000

Our current series is called "Jump... into the life God has for you." Guess what our theme song/bumper is?

That's right... ;)

Re: Sick Day, Heroes, Politics, & Church

eric — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:34:16 -0000

uhhh.... rant much? ;)

Nice one! Now tell me how you really feel.

Re: Multiple Services & Youth Ministry

eric — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 18:05:02 -0000

We have 2 services on Sunday (9:00am & 10:30am).

We have Youth Services (separate Jr. High & High School) @ the 10:30 service only. It's our weakest youth event.

We have 411 on Tuesday nights from 7-8:30. Jr. High meets @ one house, High School at another. Every 3 months we'll do a combined service.

We started 411 as a combined Tuesday night service in our High School Pastors garage with about 30 kids. We just recently split them up. I didn't want to, but our Youth Pastors did... They were right. Both groups have now grown to 30+ kids because of it. Now our combined gatherings are packed.

My suggestion would be rather than push what you or your Pastor thinks is most effective, sit with them and help them build their own vision. What are they good at? How do they most effectively minister? It might not be in a large group setting.

If they can't do that then you need to teach them how; or simply find some different Youth Pastors.

Re: We’re Unplugged!

eric — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 01:04:37 -0000

We went without t.v. for the first two & 1/2 years that we were here in Temecula. It was actually pretty cool!

Re: We’re Unplugged!

eric — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 01:06:09 -0000

Oh my gosh! It just hit me! What are you going to do about LOST!?

Re: Happy Birthday to…

eric — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:47:20 -0000

If you think 33 feels old, just wait until you're 34... Oh crap, that's me!!!

Re: Creative Chaos: Youth Room

eric — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:45:44 -0000

Is that Karl's old T.V.??? ;)

Fun stuff!

Re: Music Monday (it’s Tuesday): Lenny Kravitz

eric — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:43:19 -0000

We're doing a series right now called "Love Revolution" after the title of his new album. Finally, I get to play one of his tunes at Church!

But I think you just love the saxaphone because your dad plays...

Circus is his best album to date. "In my life today" is my favorite. The words to "Are you gonna go my way" are full-on Gospel...

We should do a Kravitz Sunday! Here's the setlist...

If you can't say no
You were in my heart
God save us all
Are you gonna go my way

Baptized
God is love
In my life today
Resurrection
Fly away

Okay, so it would be a long service, but it would be amazing!

Re: Music Monday (it’s Tuesday): Lenny Kravitz

eric — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:48:42 -0000

classic, raw, vulnerable & creative...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=q8im-iVPjHk

Re: Church Offices

eric — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 03:58:57 -0000

I was against them until my wife went back to work and took the kids with her. I don't like being home alone... I need more social interaction.

I agree... I think they create more synergy with your staff. I feel like I never see my Pastor.

Re: Commenting: Blog Etiquette

eric — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:48:41 -0000

I need to post more!

I subscribe to about 15 blogs (not as many as you) and read on average about 5 a day (I hate long posts).

Blogging for me is kind of like practicing my guitar... I know that it's extremely bendficial and even possibly considered part of my job, but I often feel guilty doing it because I enjoy it so much. Therefore I don't do it nearly enough.

Anyone else feel that way?

Re: LifeChurch.tv Digerati Spanks the Monkey

eric — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:52:18 -0000

Joshua would be mortified!

Re: Recording Church

eric — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:28:39 -0000

I used to use the M-Audio Fast Track on that Dell that John is now using. Maybe you could get him to give that thing up for a few hours on Sunday. Then he could listen to his own messages at home. It worked pretty well. I would go with that.

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FastTrack...

Or you might look into this little genius of an invention. The MUVO V100. I recorded some songs on it... "Devoted", "Life for a life" & "Come Alive". I'm not sure if it has a line in, but it does have a microphone so there's probably a way to make it work. The beauty of it is that it doubles as a Jump Drive with it's USB insert. The bummer is that it's only 1GB. But I think they're coming out with a 4GB. Still not huge, but big enough.

http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?cat...

Lastly, I've been seriously considering plugging into our Macbook Pro and using Garageband. My only concern is that it's designated for ProPresenter and I hate to mess with it during the service. However, it would be sweet if it worked since we're portable and simplicity is like Gold at our Church.

Re: Recording Church

eric — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:06:55 -0000

Check out this site out...

I like the Samson Zoom H4 because you can supposedly multi-track but I've heard the quality of the Edirol is better.

http://www.auditory.org/recorders.html#neuros

Re: Teen Sex

eric — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:27:53 -0000

According to Ron Luce, statistics show that if we continue at the rate we're going only 4% of this generation will be Bible Believing Christians.

If that's true, then we definitely need to do something different... however, I believe that what we need to do different is teach the kids... no, the student leaders in our Churches to do something different. We can't do it, but they can.

We need a student lead revolution...

Re: Weekend Rewind 4.4.08

eric — Mon, 05 May 2008 14:08:07 -0000

Was that a "Kangaroo Rat"?

Break some rules huh? Is that a new theme @ Life? ;)

My week will be posted in a few...

Wish you were playing with me at conference tomorrow...

Re: How fast do you Type?

eric — Tue, 06 May 2008 03:06:26 -0000

62 words per minute the first try... What can I say, I took typing in high school. ;)

Re: How fast do you Type?

eric — Tue, 06 May 2008 03:08:16 -0000

68 words Speed test

Re: Proper Care of Acoustic Guitars - betterthanblank

eric — Sun, 18 May 2008 02:10:07 -0000

good stuff... forgot about the alcohol wipes. I think you told me about that before.

I hate it when people don't change their strings. Karl says to change them every week. Don't think I'm that anal!

I use Baby Oil on my neck... I know, I know... oil's not good for the strings. But it really helps the life of the wood. And my 50 year old guitar needs all the help it can get!

Re: Church Planters = Church Pirates?

eric — Sun, 25 May 2008 01:54:19 -0000

Sounds like he's been hurt and he's speaking out of a recent experience/wound. What was this taken from? Looks like it was a conference for Church Leadership or something because he does seem to be speaking off the cuff.

Honestly, I think we worry about that stuff too much. Obviously we need to watch out for the wolf in sheeps clothing, but the reality is, if there are people from your Church who want to be a part of a new Church in town... I say, "let them." Obviously they weren't too plugged into your Church anyway! A lot of times it's God's way of building the Kingdom. Kind of like the Diaspora. It might not of seemed right at the time, but look at how God used it!

Re: Will Jesus Come back to ATL First?

eric — Sun, 25 May 2008 02:24:57 -0000

I spoke with the worship director @ Chris' old Church, "Austin Stone" a while back. He said that Chris is hardly ever there because his tour schedule is so hectic. It'll be interesting to see how things change when he and Giglio settle down (so to speak) and commit to a single Church rather than the 100s of cities/churches that they visit every year on their Passion Tours...

Re: Tiger Cruise Here I Come!

eric — Sun, 25 May 2008 03:15:43 -0000

Tell Chris I said 'hi'...

Re: Thanks Ustream

eric — Sun, 25 May 2008 17:41:05 -0000

some people call me the space cowboy...

Re: It’s RagamuffinSoul Week at BTB (Part 5 of 5)

eric — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:46:30 -0000

"let me conclude with this" That means he's only got another 1/2 hour left, right? ;)

Re: Tiger Cruise Update 3 of 5

eric — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:33:28 -0000

Dude... I always crash when I visit my parents on their boat. There's something about boats and water that put your body into a coma. I love it!

Re: My Brother Led Worship!

eric — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:44:39 -0000

Awesome! I got to lead with my sister on Saturday night. What is it that's so cool about worshiping with your immediate family?

http://ericbeeman.blogspot.com/2008/06/worship-...

Re: 10:00pm Thoughts…

eric — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:52:34 -0000

praying...

Re: Bob Seger’s in my Head

eric — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:30:19 -0000

random... ;)

"Spinning round" by Lenny Kravitz... We listen to it every morning on the way to school. My kids love it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJ1-uuz3aPk

erics last blog post..Ragamuffintop Challenge

Re: XP Confessional 1

eric — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:44:18 -0000

Soak Zone... Amazing! You need to do a post on that!

erics last blog post..Ragamuffintop Challenge

Re: Purpose Driven Trip

eric — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:50:55 -0000

Looks like fun... Did you get to sneak into the Delirious? concert? I wish I could have made it but I was a little preoccupied...

http://ericbeeman.blogspot.com/2008/06/mexico.html

erics last blog post..Ragamuffintop Challenge

Re: Called to Ministry?

eric — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:58:32 -0000

Beautiful!!!

I'm stoked to be in a place where my Pastor believes and practices the same thing...

Re: Macy Update 7.7.08

eric — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 21:10:54 -0000

Can't wait to tell Joshua! He's been praying for her everyday.

erics last blog post..Ragamuffintop Challenge

Re: Pastors & Homosexuality

eric — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:05:49 -0000

I agree with Jeff... "stop expecting non-believers to act like believers."

Good stuff.

erics last blog post..Guest Blogger

Re: My Friend Karl

eric — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 17:09:39 -0000

yes, please overhaul that crazy blog... you can't even post on it!

Sorry Karl, but it's gotta go... ;)

erics last blog post..Crazy Week!!!

Re: Even Better Than the Real Thing?

eric — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 02:11:58 -0000

I feel bad for Bono and U2... All those people that thought they really sounded that bad!

erics last blog post..Ragamuffin Top - Accountability?

Re: What Makes a Great Sing-a-long?

eric — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 18:49:11 -0000

Is it really about how well the congregation sings along, or is it something more?

erics last blog post..Legos... the greatest creation of mankind...

Re: What Makes a Great Sing-a-long?

eric — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 18:53:28 -0000

Sorry, I had to do that! LOL!

So here are my real thoughts... What a great topic. I just had someone comment on how we "kind of have theme songs". Meaning that we play a lot of the same songs. There's something to be said about doing new songs.

I agree with you all. In other words, different environments call for different leadership styles, techniques and song choices. Seriously though, for this post we'll assume that singing along is our primary objective. Here are some of the techniques that I've used.

So why not pick some popular Radio tunes that they might be more likely to sing along with (like "won't back down"). I actually force myself to listen to Christian Radio once in a while for the sole purpose of picking up a popular song. Let's face it, a lot of Christians listen to Christian Radio and the truth is they're still playing some songs from the 90s (talk about repetition)!

One of the best (and toughest) things I've done as a worship leader was create a few live, unedited CDs from our Sunday morning worship experiences. Now this was before I actually cared about how I sounded (what a tragedy that I've lost that) so I was able to put it out there. Today I'd be too embarrassed, but I bet it'd be worth it. This was over 5 years ago and I still get people asking for copies of those CDs. There's something about being able to go to Church in the privacy of your own vehicle.

Maybe I should put together a new CD!

erics last blog post..Legos... the greatest creation of mankind...

Re: Kindergarten!

eric — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 18:50:26 -0000

Joshua's so proud too... He talks about it all the time.. "I'm in Kindergarten now!"

Sooo, what was up with Macy's face bro? She looks like she saw a ghost! :)

erics last blog post..Unity #4 - Gospel Fest '08

Re: Gear, Gear, Gear

eric — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:00:34 -0000

Hey! Where's Miles taking TaeKwanDoe? We're thinking about putting Joshua in somewhere!

erics last blog post..Unity #4 - Gospel Fest '08

Re: Dancing Baptists OR Coming Soon to LifeChurch!

eric — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:38:50 -0000

Ummm... Can you say "Mark Peacock"? That guy dances like Mark Peacock! Totally!

Oh yeah... and love the electric drum kit!

Re: You Need to Read This

eric — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 03:48:28 -0000

Awesome... I was trying not to do it, but I can't tell you how much I resonate with this list. Most of the past leaders I've worked for (not all) have been "Leader Men" but my current leader is definitely a "Servant Leader"... almost to a fault. I'll take that anyday... What a great example to strive for!

I'm probably more like the LeaderMan than I want to admit... :(

erics last blog post..Worship Confession - Landslide

Re: Matt Damon vs. Sarah Palin

eric — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:48:11 -0000

Why did Bill post annonymously??? Hmmm...

I actually kind of liked what Matt had to say, except for the dinosaur stuff. ;)

My problem is that I find it hard to listen to/follow someone that's so fired up about an issue. If they're that emotional I kind of tune out. Don't get me wrong, I believe you need to be passionate about the issues, I've just made far too many bad decisions based on emotion... and I bet you have too.

In other words, when I get real emotional I tend to make stupid comments... like "I need to know if she really thinks dinosaurs were here 4,000 years ago... I want to know that, I really do!" ;)

erics last blog post..Worship Confession - Landslide

Re: Miles 6 Year Old Birthday (part 2)

eric — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:38:03 -0000

Joshua had a blast... He asked if he could go hang out with Miles again on Friday...

BFFL??? ;)

erics last blog post..Southwest Church Planters Forum

Re: Music Monday

eric — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 19:12:19 -0000

All-Time Favorite Version of Free-Fallin'. Love the way they're micing the guitars...

erics last blog post..Worshp Confessional

Re: 2 Songs That Are Rockin My World

eric — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:07:44 -0000

No offense, but I'm kind of over the whole Indie thing (I'm still not even sure what that means). I've seen Phil quite a few times in the last year and he's tearing it up. And while this is my favorite off his record, I like it better when he does it acoustic. I saw him in S.D. last year and it was just him, his acoustic and a loop station of some kind... best ever!

I prefer the singalong and of course concur with your passion for Tom Petty and the whole acoustic vibe! Especially with my new Martin! :)

Re: muffin top challenge

eric — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 19:08:23 -0000

I gained a pound but it was well worth it!

Check it out...

http://www.ericbeeman.com

Re: Photos from Pasadena Worship Night

eric — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 01:40:30 -0000

How about teaching on the difference between traditional and performance based worship... if there is one.

I'm sure a lot of people would like to hear about your experiences as a female worship leader in the Church.

Re: Worship Confessional #6, July 22 2007

eric — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 01:07:06 -0000

Ahh... the joy of technology. Those are the days when you want to just throw it all away and just do an acoustic set with just you and your guitar.

Re: Worship Confessional #6, July 22 2007

eric — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 01:08:53 -0000

Ahhh... the joy of technology!

Those are the days when you just want to throw it all away and do an acoustic set with just you and your acoustic guitar.

I feel for you...

Re: The Supernatural … Do You BELIEVE?

eric — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 01:21:11 -0000

I'm with you on that one Fred...

Re: Calling All Worship Bloggers …

eric — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 02:04:11 -0000

Sounds like a plan! I'd love to contribute to the community.

Re: Music from my Niece, Madeline

eric — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 13:30:21 -0000

I'd buy it... I kept waiting for the band to kick in and take it to another level... kind of the set up that Shannon described... it's kind of got an "enter the worship circle" vibe... http://www.entertheworshipcircle.com/ewcblog/in...