Disqus - Latest Comments for James McLean

Re: What Makes A Man…A Man

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:33:52 -0000

i've decide that i am actually a 3 year old border collie named Jasper.
does this mean that i can pee on fire hydrants now? :)

James McLean's last blog post...The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Gobble Gobble

James McLean — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 13:02:44 -0000

Here in VA Chik-fil-a is one of the 5 food groups. Glad that Cali is getting in on the action. Now if only we could get an In-N-Out Burger to come out here!

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Be A MAN!!!

James McLean — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 13:45:37 -0000

He is right but his follow up comments are weak. It's not the obvious things that make a man a man, but his character. Don't let anyone fit you into a category.
has anyone seen my cocoa butter? :)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Authenticity

James McLean — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 12:28:47 -0000

good question, mostly because crisis is the only thing that gets my attention and makes me take a long hard look at myself. maybe that's why Paul liked hardship?

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Some Christians Drive Me Crazy

James McLean — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 15:05:25 -0000

Man when I finally met the creator of the universe, the one who all of history leads up to, that is exactly what I wanted to do afterwards...go to D-land. :)

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Holding Worship

James McLean — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 20:11:20 -0000

we can plan the service all we want, only God could plan something like that.

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Red Eye for WIBO

James McLean — Fri, 23 May 2008 18:39:54 -0000

Hey Los! Glad i got to meet you at WIBO. btw, that video you have up of the opener from Drive is out of this world!

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Are We Fat?

James McLean — Thu, 29 May 2008 11:03:26 -0000

5'8 1/2" (that is a significant half)
174

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Caption Please - You Knew It Was Coming

James McLean — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:16:48 -0000

(in the style of the famous you tube video entitled "Leave Brittany Alone!")

"Leave Hillary Alone!"

Re: Ragamuffin Soul » Donald Miller Shall Pray…Amen

James McLean — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 22:03:12 -0000

i think they should stay out of it. whoever gets voted in won't change much so it doesn't matter.
Jesus came to build his church not a government. Christians should throw themselves fully into building the church of Jesus. when the church does its job we will affect change in the culture and that will eventually affect all of the country and even the world. government is a necessary evil because of the fall. so we do what we have to, we vote and pay taxes and obey laws. other than that i don't think we need to be involved. just my opinion.

Re: Chris Tomlin: Enough - betterthanblank

James McLean — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 13:04:01 -0000

There was no place for a comment on the Piper quote so I am commenting here. That quote was just used last week in my Biblical Worship class. Its a good one and so true. If you haven't yet checked out the new Matt Redman or Tim Hughes CD's you must!

Re: Free Phone Ringers

James McLean — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:19:45 -0000

I registered with this site but its weird it makes me upload something before I can get the file. I don't understand how it works.

Re: Psalm 2

James McLean — Thu, 03 May 2007 14:33:53 -0000

This quote is so true. The Psalms have been one of the biggest healing factors in my life.
"But let your hand be on the man of your right hand, the son of man whom you have made strong for yourself! Then we shall not turn back from you; give us life, and we will call upon your name!"
- Psalm 80:17-18 (ESV)

Re: Bono: Preacher

James McLean — Thu, 03 May 2007 14:42:14 -0000

Wow! thats all i can say.

Re: Dave Barnes: probably the funniest thing I have seen in at least a year

James McLean — Fri, 11 May 2007 08:30:56 -0000

dude, i have been showing people this video for a few months. it is awesome! good find. have you heard dave barnes normal music? it is great!

Re: Latest Read: State of Fear

James McLean — Mon, 14 May 2007 09:03:48 -0000

I think you are absolutely right about that church cycle. I believe the problem is that our focus gets clouded. Jesus never called us to save anyone, that is His job along with the Holy Spirit. He didn't even necessarily call us to start a bunch of churches (not that they are not helpful for spiritual growth). He called us to make disciples. (Matt. 28:19-20) This takes a lot of time and effort and unfortunately most Christians only want to commit an hour on Sun. and maybe an hour during the week.
Not trying to sound like a downer but it is the truth for the majority of the American church today. If anyone is interested in what discipleship growth could look like check out the book "Cultivating a Life for God" by Neil Cole.
I really am starting to believe that this is what Jesus intended for His church.

Re: Fresh Graphic: Romans Teaching Series

James McLean — Wed, 16 May 2007 10:29:08 -0000

Wow! That is sharp looking.

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 1

James McLean — Fri, 18 May 2007 09:08:18 -0000

He is not the God who stays far away. He is an intimate God, God with us. So good to know, I can face life so much better with Him being close.
Thanks for the reminder!

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 2

James McLean — Mon, 21 May 2007 10:15:45 -0000

Right on point. The world's best offer is empty and meaningless. All things are better and enhanced when Christ is the reason and motivation behind them.

Re: I don’t know what to say…

James McLean — Wed, 23 May 2007 11:24:46 -0000

neither does he....what is this guy's deal?

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 4

James McLean — Thu, 24 May 2007 11:19:00 -0000

Right on Alex! It is all about redemption. It is all about God winning back that which was lost in the fall. Restoring our relationship back through Christ!
"If because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ."- Romans 5:17
You can say it however you want, as long as this is at the core, I'm all for it!

Re: I ain’t scared of Dancing

James McLean — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 13:06:31 -0000

Me and my friends watch it too! I liked the guy with the nacho libre mask on wednesday night.

Re: DC Talk: The Early years

James McLean — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 14:17:46 -0000

Incredible! Fanny packs are the bomb!

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 5

James McLean — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:59:41 -0000

Good stuff! You guys should do, Matt Redman's "Shine"

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 5

James McLean — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 09:04:52 -0000

One thing that has helped me lately is a talk from Andy Stanley. It was all about how every person we come in contact with is "someone for whom Christ died". Seeing people this way has totally changed my view, it helps to remind me to have compassion. While I'm thinking about it, are there really any "normal" people in the world? Hang out with someone long enough and their quirks will come out, all the more reason to learn how to love like Christ. Easy preaching, hard living.
-James

Re: Music at Mars Hill

James McLean — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 09:11:13 -0000

yahh! God is using Rob Bell and Mars Hill to help me think through how I will minister for the rest of my life. I'm glad that we serve a creative and authentic God and that He is the originator of all things, old and new.

Re: Date Night

James McLean — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 15:38:43 -0000

Remind me again why I am still searching for a wife and one day a family?
Ha ha, Miles is a tough kid.
I was the accident kid in our family.

Re: Celebrating Miles

James McLean — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:19:10 -0000

Miss you guys, wish I could have been there.

Re: Worship Confessional #2 (finally)

James McLean — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 08:21:38 -0000

My brother is a singer! Way to bust out the Charlie Hall.

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 5

James McLean — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 11:30:54 -0000

thanks Alex, I needed that today.

Re: 3 Thumbs Down

James McLean — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 08:21:13 -0000

sorry to dissapoint you but "Ghost Rider" sucks too, the only comic book movie that was worse was "the Hulk".

Re: We’re 0 for 4

James McLean — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:20:51 -0000

now that one should have been obvious. :)

Re: After the Work Week…

James McLean — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 15:28:27 -0000

Yikes, it happens so subtly right?

Re: Best Surprise of the Day

James McLean — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 09:21:23 -0000

dude, these guys are sweet. You've got to check them out.

Re: Evangelist Worship: Tim Keller

James McLean — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 11:01:39 -0000

That article raises some great questions and has really good Biblical support. I have a lot of thoughts on these things but i don't know if they will all fit here.
I am kind of out there when it comes to my thoughts. Where I currently serve, the service is not the "main course" it is the exclamation point at the end of a great sentence which would be a week of discipleship and investing in the lives around you. I totally agree with him on people wanting something authentic and this means Christians explore their creativity and create something fresh.
Anyway, even though this article is long, suffer through it...it is good food for thought.

Re: Say a Prayer for Rudy

James McLean — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:53:29 -0000

Praying

Re: America’s got (no) Talent (part II) or Proud to be an American?

James McLean — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 09:05:17 -0000

wow! that dude is good!

Re: Love Him / Hate Him

James McLean — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 08:17:39 -0000

Ha ha, thats a pretty funny video. I have to completely agree with him on this one though. It's not just a church issue, our whole culture has dogged masculinity which is why I think there are so many bold and over controlling women around, they have stepped up to fulfill the roles that men abandoned.
The church needs to address this issue. If you want to read a great book about this check out "Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood" by John Piper and Wayne Grudem.

Re: Mad Church Disease

James McLean — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 10:00:50 -0000

Wow! This book is so important. I can't wait until it comes out. The author has a n awesome testimony too, very honest. Check out her blog and read her bio.

Re: Macy

James McLean — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 08:46:15 -0000

She is my favorite family member! I miss her, miss you guys.

Re: Saw this driving yesterday

James McLean — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 08:48:10 -0000

dude, this is random but it reminds me of a few nights ago. me and my roommate made corn on the grill, "nacho libre" style....spices and all!

Re: Aviom is here!

James McLean — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 08:52:22 -0000

dude you are sick with a power drill.

Re: Miles Sings

James McLean — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:19:16 -0000

cutest kids ever, how are we gonna outdo that one day?

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 5

James McLean — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 16:30:48 -0000

i concur with the 'holiness' usage.
my big thing is that i need to learn that listening doesn't mean waiting for your turn to talk.

Re: Why are we using “Secular” songs?

James McLean — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 10:47:57 -0000

"secular" what a funny word. hi rebekah! hope you guys are doing good.

Re: Are we truly Innovative?

James McLean — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 10:54:57 -0000

good thoughts mandy.
I don't think tradition is a bad thing. Look at some of our American traditions, Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving. These are all things that we look forward to in our culture. The problem comes when tradition becomes our master instead of our servant.
Tradition or innovation both exist to serve the purpose of connecting people to Jesus.
I think that trying too hard to be innovative can become a tradition as well. Creativity and innovation should be done because God made us creative people and not just for creativity's sake.

Re: Don’t Ask…

James McLean — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:07:36 -0000

bleaching? i did that a few months ago. it was like different patches all throughout. it was fun but i got tired of styling and stuff. I just shaved my head a week or two ago. Feels great!

Re: Why are we using “Secular” songs?

James McLean — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:38:52 -0000

i think that some "secular" music helps us understand some important questions that people are asking. i have been listening to Linkin Park's Meteora album lately. Great lyrics, good questions!

Re: Jing: screen capture images & vids

James McLean — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 12:00:54 -0000

looks pretty cool, maybe you could use it to make me a video on how to make my blog better than it is.

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 5

James McLean — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 14:11:26 -0000

Wow! These are some serious truths. One of the biggest things that sets Christians apart is to keep going even when life isn't fair.
It made me think of this section of something I read of Oswald Chambers the other day:
"Never look for justice in this world, but never cease to give it. If we look for justice, we will begin to grouse and to indulge in the discontent of self-pity - Why should I be treated like this? If we are devoted to Jesus Christ we have nothing to do with what we meet, whether it is just or unjust. Jesus says - Go steadily on with what I have told you to do and I will guard your life. If you try to guard it yourself, you remove yourself from My deliverance. The most devout among us become atheistic in this connection; we do not believe God, we enthrone common sense and tack the name of God on to it. We do lean to our own understanding, instead of trusting God with all our hearts."

Re: New Life Worship

James McLean — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 16:15:51 -0000

thats solid. i like it.

Re: Sunday Night Sandals

James McLean — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 08:47:48 -0000

Sounds like a good time. We did "Marvelous Light" last night as well at Kairos!
"people know me"

Re: Just another day in the office

James McLean — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 16:36:28 -0000

Though i don't have a family to take care of yet i am learning this lesson right now. I am asking God to focus things more for me so that i am not spread too thin. You are right, there is nothing like it in the world, knowing that you are joining with God for His purposes, so satisfying!

Re: Daily Devotions: Matt 6

James McLean — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 16:40:01 -0000

dude, i am right there with you. it's funny that you posted this because i journaled about the same topic a few days ago. i'll have to post it on my blog soon cuz' it will freak you out how similar it is.

Re: What do your shoes say about you?

James McLean — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 09:00:34 -0000

my shoes say that i don't have money to spend on shoes.

Re: Mac vs. PC: Round 5 - betterthanblank

James McLean — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 09:11:53 -0000

Oh no! you are becoming one of "those guys". Please don't be like that cocky guy from the Mac commercials.

Re: Re-Branding

James McLean — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 14:22:20 -0000

I think it looks incredible. It is very wholesome and organic. It makes me want to go eat an orange. It does look a bit Disneylandish but who cares? Disneyland has done well for themselves.
Very simple and professional. I also like how it is darker towards the bottom and lighter towards the top. Good work!

Re: Jay’s Worship Confessional

James McLean — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 14:32:40 -0000

Good stuff. Nasser speaks here a lot and lives are always changed as a result.
How can we do God's work and not read His Word? Good reminder.

Re: 2 Thumbs Down: Marine

James McLean — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 14:34:16 -0000

Were you like "can i have that 2 hours of my life back"? ha ha

Re: Random thoughts at 11pm

James McLean — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 11:10:49 -0000

yahh you are on Facebook....finally!

Re: This is what is happening outside my window

James McLean — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 12:53:43 -0000

I sure remember those days.

Re: Pet Peeve

James McLean — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:10:34 -0000

dude, you saw the Angels! i'm jealous. wish i could go to a Padres game.

Re: Pet Peeve

James McLean — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:15:25 -0000

oh yeah pet peeves....when i come home and my roommate has locked the door even though he is inside and i have a hand full of stuff and i have to set it all down to get my key out and unlock it. thats no good.

Re: Pet Peeve

James McLean — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:37:29 -0000

or when someone says "ill meat you" instead of i'll meet you"...ha ha!

Steve....i am a huge Padre fan. I grew up in Socal but now live in VA. It is one of my ways of staying connected to CA. Go Jake Peavy!

Re: 12:45am…

James McLean — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:41:16 -0000

you are taking voice lessons now? sweet!

Re: Time Lapse Photo Question

James McLean — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 09:14:00 -0000

that sounds pretty cool.

Re: Miles, the next David Beckham?

James McLean — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 16:01:19 -0000

What a stud, soccer is the way to go!

Re: betterthanblank has new skin!

James McLean — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 13:00:29 -0000

"you stay classy San Diego".

Re: Need More Jiggawatts!

James McLean — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 14:49:24 -0000

you would definitely need a delorean (spelling?) car out front!

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

James McLean — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 13:56:31 -0000

wow, a lot of this i never really thought about! Glad that God made you like that Alex to remind me of the things i overlook. I am going to show this to my powerpoint guy and see what he thinks, i'm always up for change and improvement.

Re: Life Gets Fit

James McLean — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 14:07:33 -0000

I think this is an excellent idea. It just has to be implemented very carefully so that people are free to participate as they choose. One really good book that has tips is "The Abs Diet". I know it sounds cheesy but I went from 194 to 169 in 2 months from applying it.
I think part of the relational/emotional health part should include entertainment...what we watch and how much of it we watch. I guess that might fall under time management. Sometimes I just need to unplug.
Anyway, i hope Life church moves forward with that idea. It sounds great!

Re: Garage Cleaning Day

James McLean — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 09:18:43 -0000

macy is hilarious to watch in this video!

Re: Daily Devotions: John 4:34

James McLean — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 13:38:36 -0000

i am the same way. food is last on the priority list. i think i may have gotten to the point where i view it as fuel, i still like it though.

Re: The Macy Waddle

James McLean — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 08:27:36 -0000

HA HA HA!

Re: Singing Naked

James McLean — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 22:28:38 -0000

ha ha, i think its funny that you are learning how to sing and i am learning how to play guitar and piano. we traded!

Re: LifeChurch.tv: 30 Days to Live

James McLean — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 22:36:59 -0000

wow! huge question. i would love people more, listen to God better and serve the needy. at least thats what i would like to think i would do.

Re: Karl’s Rant

James McLean — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 09:43:08 -0000

Wow! that was a lot. good stuff, it takes that kind of humility and team player attitude to keep a worship team functioning.

Re: Another Day in the Office

James McLean — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 09:43:54 -0000

i'm jealous.

Re: Worship Confessional 12

James McLean — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 20:45:20 -0000

transitions are always an issue. i think it helps to have someone who is on keys or guitar that can keep vamping after a song is over and not just end abruptly. also, it helps to have a worship leader who knows what direction everything is headed and can roll with anything. i have definitely had some nights where i am out of it and it affects everyone because they are looking to me to know where we are headed. in the end i think you are right about flexibility too you have to be ready for whatever. example: this past Sunday night we had open prayer time, it went a little long and at one point got very deep and serious, i was scheduled to play "All We Need", after sensing the spiritual temperature of the room i dropped that song and decided to do "Agnus Dei" instead. it came together pretty well.

Re: Staff Meeting Nuggets

James McLean — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 18:17:02 -0000

Buildings are cool but don't get too comfy, we gotta get people out of the building and into the community!
My poor blog is suffering from all of my busyness at work and school. :(

Re: Simpsonized!

James McLean — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 15:03:00 -0000

http://simpsonizeme.com/ecard.php?lang=en_us&am...

my link is gigantic! not sure if it really looks like me or not.

Re: Vocal Lessons: Week 3 - betterthanblank

James McLean — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 12:07:26 -0000

you don't know how excited i am that you are learning this stuff! so cool!

Re: 7 Years, No Itch

James McLean — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 13:26:08 -0000

You guys rock! Congrats!

Re: Movie Wrap Up

James McLean — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:00:05 -0000

did em recommend "disturbia"? ha ha!
"300"!, yes it was visually stunning but i got a lot out of it too, me and my roommate still talk about that movie.

Re: Can I be real? (Worship Confessional 13)

James McLean — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 08:32:39 -0000

Not cool.

Re: Teamwork…

James McLean — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 08:33:39 -0000

Ha ha! Those are great!

Re: New Series at LifeChurch: Why?

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:28:19 -0000

very good concept. and i like the artwork.

Re: A Little Family History

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:31:38 -0000

Woo Hoo! Go Scottish ancestry! So cool. I think you should seriously consider jen's request....:)

Re: What’s Going on Here?

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:33:12 -0000

maybe summer is ending and people aren't spending as much time online?

Re: Preaching this Weekend

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:36:03 -0000

hey is that a pic of Tootin' Tilton? Ha ha!

Re: Notes from Staff Meeting

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:39:00 -0000

i pretty much have all those down....jk!
i would say mine is absence of trust because i have burned by people in ministry before and because i have this mentality that if i don't do it then it won't get done right. basically that boils down to pride, ouch!

Re: Notes from Staff Meeting

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 13:39:40 -0000

sorry that should say "have been burned".

Re: Notes from Staff Meeting

James McLean — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 21:53:35 -0000

i know i'm weird but i love conflict! ha ha! i really do, it gets me in trouble a lot but at least you never have to guess what i'm thinking.

Re: Brainstorm: Imagine Teaching Series

James McLean — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 14:12:05 -0000

wow! that will definitely peak interest and get people talking.

Re: Illustration Montage

James McLean — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 14:15:11 -0000

good. liked it. wish we had someone like you for Kairos, i'll keep praying.

Re: LifeChurch Building Update

James McLean — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 14:18:25 -0000

sweet beard!

Re: Tomorrow Morning, Up at 5am (again)

James McLean — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 09:26:31 -0000

yeah man! you can do it!

Re: Tomorrow Morning, Up at 5am (again)

James McLean — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 21:41:36 -0000

just keep trying, it takes time. i'm still working on it too.

Re: NFL Opening Weekend

James McLean — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 12:20:12 -0000

ouch, i feel bad for that guy. i pray that he will be able to walk again.

Re: What I Spent My Evening Doing

James McLean — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:53:58 -0000

Ha ha! this is reminding me of dad. The McLeans aren't the greatest at being a handyman. I have a tough time just building a desk from Wal-mart.
ps. love the German!

Re: Yeah, I’m workin on it

James McLean — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 14:17:18 -0000

i thought you were doing these colors in honor of Halloween. :)

Re: The Coolest Thing I’ve Seen All Day

James McLean — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:58:06 -0000

gosh! i feel like such a man now! the greatest thing about this clip is the shocked look on the other team's face.

Re: My Brother the Celebrity (almost)

James McLean — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:53:07 -0000

ha ha, slight correction the audition was in Charleston,SC. I can forgive you but the college football fans would be pretty ticked. It's like a second religion down here. :)

Re: Need Your Input

James McLean — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 01:11:21 -0000

i am with vince on this one, most times i won't change until i go through something tough and i get desperate enough to change.
the two questions i ask now which inspire change are:
1. am i becoming more like Christ?
2. are lives being changed and becoming more like Christ through things i am involved with?

Re: Boys vs. Girls: Taboo

James McLean — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 09:16:38 -0000

I like when it says.."the Lord lifts the burdens of those bent beneath their loads". He is giving us a quality of life, eternal life, like no other. After all "every man dies..not every man truly lives."

Re: Vocal Lessons: Week 5 or 6

James McLean — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:52:46 -0000

that's funny...she is having you modify your vowels. keep cranking out those lessons, they are helpful.
hey, i wrote a song last weekend with my friend, it's pretty cool!

Re: Evangelism Pains

James McLean — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 18:38:45 -0000

these are all good things, it really is not as complicated as we make it sometimes.

Re: Elephant in the Church!

James McLean — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 18:47:57 -0000

Wow! There were some great responses on his blog, the church shouldn't be afraid to talk about all the topics mentioned.
I think in our area, 2 Timothy 3:5 would best describe what is going on,
"having a form of godliness but denying its power."

Re: You Version Beta

James McLean — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 18:50:48 -0000

Looks pretty sweet!

Re: The OJ Press Guy

James McLean — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 10:40:32 -0000

"it's an emotional time". I literally cry when i watch this video, so hilarious!

Re: The Song says it Better (Part 1)

James McLean — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 13:13:25 -0000

i totally remember this album, it was all we had to listen to for awhile, lionel ritchie is the man!
My first album? probably Stephen Curtis Chapman's "Heaven in the Real World"
love his lyrics!

Re: Belated Birthday Blog

James McLean — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 16:56:11 -0000

Woo hoo Miles! Coolest kid ever!

Re: Ministry Frustrations

James McLean — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:10:45 -0000

Yeah, this is always gonna be happening. I heard this quote from Francios Fenelon the 17th century saint:

"It should be remembered that even the best of people leave much to be desired and we must not expect too much. Do not allow yourself to turn away from people because of their imperfections, I have found that God leaves even in the most spiritual people certain weaknesses which seem to be entirely out of place."

That has helped me keep it in perspective, but its still hard. I think this may be one of the symptoms of Mad Church Disease! Ha ha!

Re: The Engine of a Team

James McLean — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:15:31 -0000

man, you are weird like me, you relate the most random things with ministry and God. (ex. i think that reality tv makeover shows such as extreme home makeover and biggest loser are gospelesque in their content)
anyway, i love it!

Re: I Bet You’ve Never Had This Happen…

James McLean — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 10:30:13 -0000

are there Amish in CA?

Re: My Last Couple Days in Pictures

James McLean — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 10:37:49 -0000

I miss In-N-0ut and real Mexican food!

Re: live blogging from church

James McLean — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 10:37:57 -0000

dude, i'm pretty sure that there's a verse somewhere that says you can't blog in church. it's in the book of 2nd Hesitations or something.

Re: Life Church got Served!

James McLean — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 08:43:38 -0000

i would have to agree with James on this one, boo for reviewing churches.

Re: Billy Chia: is he really a Wiggle?

James McLean — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 08:47:54 -0000

you guys need to bust alex on his celebrityness too, many people have said he looks like Seth Green..you be the judge http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://u...

Re: The Office: Dunder Mifflen Infinity

James McLean — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 23:02:15 -0000

i would have to say that Dwight bringing that barn cat named garbage was a highlight for me, "he once killed a family of coons".

Re: Music Monday

James McLean — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 14:42:38 -0000

yeah, Jamie Cullum i have friends that have been huge fans for awhile now, i've heard he is fun in concert too. me being a singer you know i'm gonna highlight the singers over the musicians right? so another new good british guy that i like a lot is James Morrison (not the Doors guy). also, even though it is very ccmish i like ronnie freeman's new CD ""God Speaking". incredible lyrics! check it out www.ronniefreemanonline.com.

Re: Lost, Mullet, PumpCast, Huh? - betterthanblank

James McLean — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 13:56:52 -0000

dude, i'm growing one! kentucky waterfall baby!

Re: Politics

James McLean — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:17:11 -0000

yeah that video is the bomb. he answers the question with wisdom. i agree with you bro, you really have to be careful because God loves all people, liberals and conservatives. i would rather love them and win them then argue with them. that being said i love the lyrics to this Derek Webb song "my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country or a man, my first allegiance is not to democracy or blood, its to a king and a kingdom". we should still vote but the government can never solve all of our problems.

Re: Lost, Mullet, PumpCast, Huh? - betterthanblank

James McLean — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:19:46 -0000

does every guy in temecula still have a giant truck that is raised like 20 feet off the ground? and every soccer mom drive an H2? just checking. :)

Re: Quote of the Day

James McLean — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 17:21:57 -0000

good quote!

Re: Live Blogging: The Office - Launch Party

James McLean — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:01:26 -0000

yeah Andy's song had to be the highlight for me.

Re: Clean is Happy

James McLean — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 12:04:29 -0000

i'm speechless.

Re: Pumpkin Patch Tonight

James McLean — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 15:24:47 -0000

miss you guys.

Re: Dinner

James McLean — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 21:31:09 -0000

yeah me and my roommate created an amazing recipe for grilled chicken this summer. we mix sweet baby rays BBQ sauce with grill mates tomato, basil and garlic rub stuff. i have to say it was incredible!
bass...pretty good.

Re: P.U!

James McLean — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 08:27:25 -0000

just like his dad!

Re: Weird Post

James McLean — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 13:42:24 -0000

dude,

it is a sad fact that church staff members are notorious for being some of the most unorganized and unprofessional people out there. if we ran our businesses the way we run our churches the US economy would crumble. its disappointing because the church should be the ones setting the example to everyone else. ok soapbox over.

Re: One Man Worship Band

James McLean — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 20:21:32 -0000

you think he gets his vocal talent from his uncle? :)

Re: California is on Fire!

James McLean — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 11:59:49 -0000

i love how its always the Santa Ana winds fault. i'm no climatologist (spelling?) but i'm pretty sure they have probably been blowing for centuries. what exactly starts these fires? could it be irresponsible people who flick cigs out their cars? is there research on this stuff? do we ever hear about how they start?

Re: Bachelor

James McLean — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 08:39:40 -0000

nope, i would do the same thing.

Re: California is on Fire!

James McLean — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:58:41 -0000

sounds like a good opportunity for ministry, a lot of people in need.

Re: The Fires get Closer!

James McLean — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 19:22:40 -0000

i'm praying, i wish i was down there to help out.

Re: This landed here today!

James McLean — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:23:01 -0000

Cool!

Re: Macy does her best Marilyn Manson

James McLean — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:23:56 -0000

that girl has a face for everything. lol

Re: How do you rate your Worship?

James McLean — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:33:29 -0000

i like what tim said.

Re: Hillsong 2007 Video

James McLean — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 01:37:04 -0000

Wow! that was pretty impressive.

Re: Halloween Came Early!

James McLean — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 10:37:18 -0000

miles is so buff! is macy a pink poodle?

Re: Halloween Came Early!

James McLean — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 23:10:31 -0000

i think its supposed to be halloween, not haloween. :)

Re: Transformers: I don’t get it

James McLean — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 23:14:36 -0000

yeah you really needed to see this in the big theater. my favorite scene was the scorpion looking transformer in the desert, so cool!

Re: Goose Egg!

James McLean — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 16:21:36 -0000

i think i was his age when i got one of those, except mine was in the center of my head and my eyes went crossed from looking at it!

Re: Graphic Design Confessional?

James McLean — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:23:27 -0000

its funny to see things about snow in southern california. :) looks good though.

Re: The Best of Halloween

James McLean — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 17:37:25 -0000

these were some great articles.

Re: Confrontation & Hot Buttons

James McLean — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 13:32:05 -0000

Irishman? what an insult! he is totally a Scotsman! :)

Re: Where I’ve Been Lately

James McLean — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:41:15 -0000

Wow! I am excited for you guys. I like the way some of the architecture is all whack and not straight. Its fun and crazy. I can't wait to visit in December.

Re: I watched Oprah, and loved it!

James McLean — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 16:18:19 -0000

oprah is the ant-christ. :)

Re: On Mission?

James McLean — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 11:34:35 -0000

dude, you are speaking my language. this is the best thing you have posted yet. this is pervasive in all the things that are in my life right now. you are right they both tie into the great commission which is what our lives are to be about, Christ redeemed us for a purpose and it wasn't just so we could live in heaven one day and be good moral people.
watch this clip and tell me what comes to your mind:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWt5xt72DRE

Re: Getting to Know You (Part 2)

James McLean — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 21:44:34 -0000

i never responded to the last one of these. i am in Lynchburg, VA which is 3 1/2 hours south of Washington D.C. i am alex's little bro.
i am trying to keep it simple so i guess the mission for my life would be to be a disciple of Jesus and to make disciples of Jesus.
verse would be Matt. 28:19-20
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
i am trying to establish habits and life changes so that everything i do in some way matches up to what Jesus asked us to do before He went away.

Re: Happy (belated) Birthday Dad!

James McLean — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 11:29:08 -0000

i am so jealous, wish i could have been there.
i would agree with you on all of those things. i think the two things that Dad impressed upon me is a hard work ethic and joy in all circumstances. he has always been a hard worker and he doesn't cut corners. he is also a joyful person and is very giving to others. Go Dad!

Re: Almost Home & Vacation

James McLean — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 00:20:19 -0000

friggin' sweet!

Re: Blues Shredders: What I’m Thankful for…

James McLean — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:54:02 -0000

wow! i thoroughly enjoy blues. thank you for sharing that musical delight. i am rocking out (or whatever you do to the blues) right now.
by the way videos 2 and 4 no longer work.

Re: How would You answer?

James McLean — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 08:45:57 -0000

Wow! big question. I'm not going to pretend to have the answers. I think that we need much more transparency and honesty in the church. It should be presented with truth in mind though and not just for the new trend of shock factor, "OMG, the church people are talking about sex".
Very important topic today.

Re: More Bluegrass

James McLean — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:39:37 -0000

ha ha, people eat that stuff up around here.

Re: My Life: a Confessional

James McLean — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 13:07:45 -0000

Wow! Productive year. I know what you mean though, life gets to be a beast and out of control and it starts living you instead of you living it. One of my resolutions (yes i am already making them) is to learn how to say no.
Check out this book I am starting soon, its called Margin: http://www.amazon.com/Margin-Restoring-Emotiona...

Re: Trimming the Fake Tree

James McLean — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 13:19:34 -0000

boo for fake trees. :)

can't wait to see you guys soon!

Re: Graphic Design Confessional: Women’s Ministry

James McLean — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 13:09:59 -0000

if this logo was a woman in her 20's i would date it. :)
great job!

Re: 40 Lessons from Craig Groeschel

James McLean — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:37:49 -0000

those are all great things! seems so simple right? :)

Re: Sad to Happy in 10 seconds

James McLean — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 22:26:21 -0000

ha ha, little goober!

Re: U2: Coming Soon to a Theater Near You?

James McLean — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:33:43 -0000

Found this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U2_3D

It comes out on Jan 25th, 2008.
"The film will be the first live-action film to be shot, edited, and shown entirely in 3-D".
These guys are always on the cutting edge! I love it!

Re: Huckabee on Bass

James McLean — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:40:39 -0000

Ha ha! What a stud!

Re: 2008 Blogroll Housecleaning

James McLean — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:42:34 -0000

you gotta keep me on there! my blog is getting revamped soon.

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

James McLean — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:50:28 -0000

God has been faithful in preparing you and giving you awesome opportunities to be used! This is a huge step, I am praying for you. I think the best thing I have heard as far as tips is to remember that you can't do it. Only Christ in you can do it. In order to do God's work in God's power we have to stay connected to the Source.

Re: Miles got a 50

James McLean — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:52:54 -0000

mom would have never allowed us to have one of those, ha ha!

Re: Design Confessional

James McLean — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 10:32:19 -0000

i like it! where do you find these crazy pics?

Re: Creflo Dollar on Nightline - betterthanblank

James McLean — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 16:45:42 -0000

yeah its sad that these guys do this. i like Derek Webb's song Beloved "don't you ever let anyone tell you that there's anything that you need, but me."

"Seek first the kingdom of God" (not prosperity) "and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you." - Mathew 6:33

Re: Modeling Worship

James McLean — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 14:12:04 -0000

i would say getting the words right would def be awesome! i am one of those annoying people who points out the grammatical mistakes in things..(to the glory of God of course...ha ha)
dude, can you change my link? i have moved my blog to here: www.resistembrace.com

Re: LOST, Coming Soon!

James McLean — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 21:23:29 -0000

Oh yeah! I am still on board with Lost! even though they killed off my favorite character Mr. Echo.(spoiler)

Re: LifeChurch Saturday Night

James McLean — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 11:41:44 -0000

dude, did you get a treadmill?

Re: LOST in 4 days!

James McLean — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 16:49:15 -0000

can't stand Locke. anyways, it is going to be incredible, more rabbit trails and me foolishly following them because i'm curious.

Re: Stormtrack!

James McLean — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 12:39:12 -0000

because people are weak there and don't know what a real storm is, ha ha. anytime you can't see then sun it is the "stormtrack". remember El Nino?

Re: Coming Soon to LifeChurch

James McLean — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 16:44:46 -0000

i'm not even sure what that is, but it looks glorious!

Re: iChat from Bahrian (Middle East)

James McLean — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:18:31 -0000

Chris! Thank you for your sacrifice, it does not go unnoticed!

Re: Church Environments 1

James McLean — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:49:06 -0000

ha ha C3 church! I have a bunch of friends that work there. The ministry team that i used to sing on sang there a bunch. The Pastor Matt is a great guy, I actually just talked to him last night at an Ed Stetzer event.

Re: You Name This Post

James McLean — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 08:40:59 -0000

"hi my name is miles and today daddy let me dress myself."

Re: Email: Necessary Evil

James McLean — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 08:43:21 -0000

yeah, that is no fun. i still prefer email though as my main source of communication.

Re: LOST: The Beginning of the End

James McLean — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 15:28:26 -0000

yeah Tivo is the way to go. loved that lost easter eggs site that you added. pretty interesting. is it just me or is it hard to really like any of the characters anymore? i mean there is so much ugly history. i think i still like Desmond and Sayid thats about it for me.

Re: RottenNeighbor.com: Neighborhood Gossip, Now Available Online!

James McLean — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 23:38:04 -0000

yeah this is taking it too far. kind of like that show "To Tell the Truth". I think there is a certain level of discretion that is necessary.

Re: Weekend Rewind: 2.3.08

James McLean — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 10:42:34 -0000

Yes! Margin! I am reading an incredible book called Margin by Richard Swenson. It is an important one for those who are striving to advance the kingdom of God. I truly believe that marginless living and burnout are some of the biggest strongholds on the American culture.

Re: I voted!

James McLean — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:48:59 -0000

ha ha, Ron Paul. i will say this and do my best not to say too much because politics is so divisive....if Romney wins the nomination and Ron Paul finally realizes that he can only get somewhere by running an Independent ticket...then i will vote for Ron Paul.

Re: Worship Environments 2

James McLean — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 11:02:58 -0000

ha ha, i know Pastor Tadd too! he went to LU. he is friends with the two founding pastors of conVerge church. small world.
www.convergechurch.org

Re: Worship Environments 3

James McLean — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:59:17 -0000

yeah that is def baby boomerish. looks a lot like a business.

Re: Trying Something New

James McLean — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 09:54:19 -0000

i love post-its. i swear by them. they have helped me so much with organization. i can't explain why, they just have.

Re: 7 Random Things

James McLean — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 10:00:39 -0000

dude, you didn't mention that Duart Castle belongs to your ancestors the Clan MacLean! woo hoo!
by the way, i watched Braveheart last night, coincidentally. I am so proud of my heritage! :)

Re: Lunch @ Costco

James McLean — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:03:28 -0000

yep, i've done that. not bad at all.

Re: Family Photos

James McLean — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 18:03:37 -0000

man i miss you guys. i need to call and talk to miles soon.

Re: Andy Stanley Speaks Vision

James McLean — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 18:08:34 -0000

this is good.

Re: What I did today

James McLean — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:43:00 -0000

looks like a headache to me but what do i know, i'm a worship leader.

Re: Lunch @ Costco 3

James McLean — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:43:54 -0000

organic apples! so incredible.

Re: Valentines Date

James McLean — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:46:52 -0000

ha ha, that is awesome!

I remember that dog...check this out...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpArS0WnVik

Re: LOST: The Economist (Part 1 of ?)

James McLean — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:07:45 -0000

yeah, its starting to get real crazy. i hope that Charlie is still alive, he was my favorite.

Re: Simon Says…

James McLean — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:16:03 -0000

totally! i am always commenting throughout the performance and Simon always says close to what i am saying. I think that he says what most of us are thinking but are unwilling to say.

Re: Simon Says…

James McLean — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:16:36 -0000

by the way, why is Luke still on the show? He sucked last week!

Re: LOST: Eggtown (Live Blogging)

James McLean — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:20:05 -0000

yeah i pretty much figured it was Aaron. So why is Jack afraid to see the baby then? Where did the helicopter go? and why do people keep following Locke when he has no clue what he is doing?

Re: Lazy Sunday

James McLean — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:52:49 -0000

"the chronic...what? cles of Narnia!"

Re: Worship Environments 4

James McLean — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:17:58 -0000

dude are you for serious? where do you keep finding these? This is a friend of mine as well, Daniel Floyd is the pastor.

Re: Music Monday

James McLean — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 14:38:31 -0000

yeah i pretty much had no idea about music so i listened to what you did...INXS, R.E.M, U2, Pink Floyd, Rush. I am scarred now, maybe thats a good thing. :)

Re: What Makes a Church a Church: Driscoll

James McLean — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 19:34:08 -0000

i mean he does have a good point that the church in north america has kind of lost its identity. i would be interested in hearing the whole talk, i like some things about Driscoll.

Re: An Impromptu Day Off

James McLean — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:27:28 -0000

i mean it doesn't take much for you to get a sunburn..ha ha. congrats mom and dad! you have set an awesome example of sacrifice and commitment to us, thank you for raising us in a stable (not perfect) environment.

Re: Ed Young Impersonates Joel Osteen

James McLean — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 16:20:11 -0000

gross.

Re: Next Time I Preach…

James McLean — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 16:22:37 -0000

i mean it could work....kind of like in baseball when they wear throwback jerseys!

Re: Macy took a header

James McLean — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 07:45:47 -0000

oh no!

Re: I got hit by a Truck!

James McLean — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 07:48:53 -0000

are you kidding me? what the heck? of course it would be a two ton truck because in Temecula you are not a real man unless your truck is 10 feet off the ground and the biggest you can find. ok.....venting....i am ticked. why are people running over my brother?

Re: I got hit by a Truck!

James McLean — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 18:57:18 -0000

ha ha, i bet that guy feels terrible...running over a pastor. :)

Re: I got hit by a Truck! (part 2)

James McLean — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:55:15 -0000

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! this is incredible! i love the attention to detail...notice the treo....in two separate pieces.

Re: Music Monday (and you thought I forgot)

James McLean — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:57:02 -0000

i concur. "Right Now" was revolutionary for me.

Re: McLeans get Jib-Jab’d

James McLean — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 09:58:27 -0000

funny stuff.

Re: Weekend Rewind 3.2.08

James McLean — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 11:05:25 -0000

my weekend was crummy because i've been sick, i lead worship sick and somehow God made it come together.
one of the things that we do a little different at conVerge is that we do the worship/music after the message, we see it as a way to let the people respond to the truth that they have just heard.
also, this coming Easter we will be doing a Tenebrae service which is basically a reflection on the death of Jesus three days before Easter. The lighting is candles only and as people share scripture or song or prayer they blow out a candle and then at the end of the night the last candle is blown out and it is dark signifying the death of Jesus. The people are left that way and then you kind of reflect on it for the next few days and then Easter comes and we celebrate the resurrection!

Re: Grading Ministry Effectiveness

James McLean — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:04:18 -0000

well, i can't answer this for anyone else but the current ministry i am involved with. there really isn't anything that we can do to improve upon the mission that Jesus originated. so i guess my questions would be... How are we making disciples? What does it mean to be a disciple?(Matt. 28) Are we cultivating a biblical imagination in people? Are we challenging people to live out the mission of Jesus?
are people's lives being transformed because of the ministry of this church?

Re: Sick Day, Heroes, Politics, & Church

James McLean — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 17:09:38 -0000

with Bush's approval rating what it is, i'm not sure that i would want him endorsing me. whoever ends up winning will be someone that offers something other than what Bush has done. i like these lyrics....
"my first allegiance is not to a man, a country or a cause, my first allegiance...is to a King and a kingdom."- Derek Webb

Re: Live Blogging LOST: The Other Woman

James McLean — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 00:06:24 -0000

i think michael could be ben's man on the boat.

Re: We’re Unplugged!

James McLean — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 00:07:10 -0000

wow! big step! way to be disciplined though.

Re: Miles Sleepover

James McLean — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 16:19:19 -0000

Miles is all about the sleepovers. such a cool kid.

Re: Miles Sleepover

James McLean — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:20:28 -0000

Happy Birthday Brother!

Re: Happy Birthday to…

James McLean — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:39:40 -0000

ok, here is the place to post this now.
Happy Birthday brother!

Re: Music Monday: Traveling Wilburys

James McLean — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:40:27 -0000

love these guys, good pick!

Re: Birthday at the Beach

James McLean — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 22:43:43 -0000

ahhhh! i miss the beach so much. glad you had a fun day!

Re: I Heart my LifeGroup

James McLean — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 11:50:00 -0000

you're slacking on your Lost blog. crap i just remembered you don't have TV or internet. do watch it at the church or uh?

Re: Weekend Rewind 2.16.08

James McLean — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 14:56:51 -0000

fabulous weekend for me. wrote a new worship song, played frisbee golf and we did the same we scaled down Sunday because most of the students here are on spring break, it was just me and a guitar.
i really like the last point that Rick made about bringing church to people. i believe that the local church in America will cease to be if we don't do this.

Re: Southwest Church Planters Forum

James McLean — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:11:04 -0000

as far as Holy Habits go i am trying (key word trying) to instill things like the Spiritual Disciplines (Richard Foster). things like simplicity, fasting, and solitude. the important thing i have to remember is that these holy habits won't save me they only provide discipline in my life so that i can get before God better and have Him change my heart.

Re: Easter Bunny

James McLean — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:03:07 -0000

i always found the easter bunny to be a bit creepy.

Re: My Dad Rocks!

James McLean — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:04:29 -0000

heck ya Dad! *gets up and swing dances*

Re: Adventure with Miles

James McLean — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 09:22:48 -0000

man looks like a fun time! i am jealous.

Re: I’m a Magazine Freak

James McLean — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 16:00:55 -0000

ha ha! i think its because you are visual.
i pretty much love to read, i'm crazy. books, magazines,newspapers, online articles, blogs.
i read Relevant magazine (not always relevant, ha ha), sometimes Newsweek, and sometimes Men's Health.

Re: Ghostriding!

James McLean — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 12:27:56 -0000

Ghostriding the whip is so phat yo!

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

James McLean — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:27:54 -0000

yes! "life is just a lonely highway, i'm out here on the open road." love it!

Re: Jury Duty Confessional

James McLean — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 08:50:58 -0000

looks like you had a good time.

Re: Church Offices

James McLean — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 22:21:28 -0000

don't like offices...or meetings. that's just me. :)

Re: What I’m Reading

James McLean — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:57:07 -0000

i have nex gen leader, thats a good one. I'm reading a book called "What are people for?" by Wendell Berry and
"The Great Worship Awakening" i forget who it's by.

Re: Happy Birthday Macy!

James McLean — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:24:31 -0000

Happy Birthday Macy! She is still my favorite family member, sorry just sayin'.

Re: Questions

James McLean — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:30:03 -0000

wow! these are excellent questions and hard ones.
I think for the first section of ministry questions the basic jist that you are getting at is....Am i adding value to people or taking it away? and Am I being a disciple of Jesus and making disciples of Jesus? or am i following the ways of Jesus and am I teaching the ways of Jesus through my life.
Sorry that was a lot but this is a hot topic for me.
More later on the next set of questions. :)

Re: Macy’s Birthday

James McLean — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:01:17 -0000

yahhh! she got the present! i was trying to go back to the old school Winnie the Pooh! ha ha!

it looks like she's not used to all this hoopla of birthdays and trying to figure out what to do with it all.

Re: 4 Shots & a Finger Prick

James McLean — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 11:24:43 -0000

ha ha, he is a tough kid. the look on his face is priceless!

Re: It’s True: Macy Broke Her Leg!

James McLean — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:06:37 -0000

wow! so bizarre. wish i could give her a hug. she looks like Emily when she was little in that second pic.

Re: Kids Fair!

James McLean — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:29:04 -0000

i don't see anything. am i missing something?

Re: Commenting: Blog Etiquette

James McLean — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:32:15 -0000

so when are you going to start commenting on my blog again? :(

Re: Fericito Ipod from Sanyo!

James McLean — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:59:41 -0000

stinkin' hilarious

Re: 23 Aliens in our Vehicle

James McLean — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:40:59 -0000

dang dude, thats crazy. La Migra!

Re: Creative Chaos: Youth Sunday

James McLean — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:29:17 -0000

no singer? that is crucial! i would have filled in :)

Re: Teen Sex

James McLean — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 22:46:36 -0000

i agree with Vince, most parents just want the church to babysit their kids and keep them in a good moral environment so that they can get back to their careers. C'mon church we gotta wake up! What are we doing with out lives? Why are we at church? We only get one shot, lets do this right! :)

Re: Day Off | Date Night

James McLean — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 10:23:01 -0000

can't wait to see you guys this summer!

Re: Fun with Casts (on 2 year olds)

James McLean — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:55:48 -0000

ha ha!

Re: Looking Outside my Walls

James McLean — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10:56:50 -0000

yeah thats cool, there are simple ways that help bring the peace of God and open doors in the future for the gospel as well.

Re: How to Make (possibly) the Worst Movie Ever

James McLean — Mon, 05 May 2008 15:28:19 -0000

wow! that is the oddest assembled cast i have ever seen.
ok first of all, that british dude from transporter is not an actor, he is the next generation Steven Seagall.

second, Ray Liotta gives me the creeps.

and also, random fact..."that guy" is Matt Lillard and he went to the same school i did for theatre, Fullerton College baby! his first big role was the original Scream.

Re: Hey Mr. Pastor - Read This

James McLean — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:12:41 -0000

amen! love all of that! always learning, always growing. i cannot invite anyone into a relationship or philosophy of life that i am not living or growing in or excited about. we gotta turn the tv off sometimes and read and think and pray! thanks for this reminder bro.

Re: Scott Slocum: How to be a Missional Church/Leader

James McLean — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:22:55 -0000

this is great. i think it all must start with admitting that the North American Christian Church is fundamentally broken and not achieving the goal that Jesus set out for us. Scott says some great things about how we need to get back to the early church (not beards and biblical garb) they lived this! they were the church at all times! it wasn't something they went to.
I also like how he mentioned about us trying to fit Jesus into our lifestyle, this can never work, Jesus did not come to make us a better version of ourselves but to remake us entirely. Our lives make so much sense and mean a lot more when we stop trying so hard and let Jesus live through us. Great post!

Re: I Heart Loops

James McLean — Thu, 08 May 2008 09:33:45 -0000

ha ha, i think i secretly like techno too. pretty sure that came from you playing the U2 remix CD growing up.

Re: Costco Trip: Caption Please

James McLean — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:26:37 -0000

Harry couldn't afford the Wild Animal Park so....

Re: Southwest Church Planters: Hal Seed

James McLean — Tue, 20 May 2008 09:13:10 -0000

these are good things, i think under the teachable area too, as leaders we must remember that this is God's church. He is the one with the plan and we are cooperating with him, submitting to what He wants. Ephesians 1:9-10 "making known to us the mystery of His will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth." He's using us to do it! This is such a privelage.

Re: Same Sex Marriage in California

James McLean — Tue, 20 May 2008 09:23:53 -0000

well i don't expect too many people to agree with me but....in a fallen and sinful world...what do you expect? It was only a matter of time before this happened in CA. The thing is, as Christians, how do we properly combat this? Is it best to take legal action? Do we protest? Do we get angry at homosexuals?

The thing that needs to change is their heart and that can't happen until they have Jesus, and that can't happen until the church goes to them and loves them and shows them a new way to live, the way of Jesus. The behavior will follow, because when Jesus shows up things change.

Re: Random Video

James McLean — Tue, 20 May 2008 09:31:46 -0000

wow! that was incredible!

Re: Emerging Church Forum

James McLean — Thu, 22 May 2008 21:55:25 -0000

i actually like house churches in some ways, the problem is that they need to be connected to a larger body. i think ideally it would be nice to have a church of house churches (which is basically what many people are doing through small groups).
Nice video! me likey!

Re: Rain in SoCal!?

James McLean — Thu, 22 May 2008 22:05:19 -0000

ha ha looks like VA on some days. Except lately it has been 75, weird, i think its actually El Nino.

Re: Twitter: Love/Hate

James McLean — Fri, 23 May 2008 18:12:03 -0000

ha ha, yeah its down right now. I can't even view the website.

Re: Family from Alabama!

James McLean — Sat, 24 May 2008 12:58:44 -0000

awesome! tell them i said hi!

Re: Hopes & Dreams

James McLean — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 22:58:58 -0000

thanks for your honesty, i totally understand. (except about being a husband or father)
i'm glad you are getting (or got) this reflective time.
praying for you.

Re: Theological Worship (songs, hymns)

James McLean — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 10:46:16 -0000

hmnnn, i agree somewhat. most worship songs today don't have very rich theological content, but then again many churches don't really prize that as an essential quality. from my observances in traveling across the country and seeing and participating in various worship services i would say that your VP is right for the most part.
but there is hope...thats why we need to write worship for our people!

Re: I bought some more books

James McLean — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:31:34 -0000

i don't know why but fiction hasn't interested me since the hardy boys and maybe Jurassic Park.

the buddhism book sounds interesting.

Re: Macy Update 6.12.08

James McLean — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:33:09 -0000

sad :( hope i get to see her again before i leave.

Re: More on Church Pirates

James McLean — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 18:10:10 -0000

agreed.

this was my fave comment from the Christianity Today blog:

"Ed, if I understand you correctly, you are pissed that church planter A is "stealing" "your people, money, etc"?

Get over yourself. It's not about you and "your church" It's about Jesus and His Church. Maybe some of these planters/people have some issues to work out, I don't know. I do know that comparing a church to a business tells me that you DO NOT get it."

Re: My Brother Led Worship!

James McLean — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:38:49 -0000

i had a great time worshiping with you guys! thanks so much it was a privilege and a blessing.

Re: 10:00pm Thoughts…

James McLean — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:01:49 -0000

i can't help but find it interesting that a week ago you blogged on Prayer: A Lifestyle. in my experiences when i truly pray, there is a time of testing that occurs. will we trust God in the midst or will we try to fix it ourselves?
i am praying this for your guys this morning:
"For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith--that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."- Ephesians 3:14-21

Re: Guess Who Went to the Dentist?

James McLean — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:00:17 -0000

uh oh cavities. he's not gonna like that.

Re: Happy Graduation Miles!

James McLean — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 07:53:19 -0000

miles is a smart kid, when we have sleepovers he reads ME bedtime stories!

Re: Arrrgh Maties!

James McLean — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:38:52 -0000

"I’ve discovered there are several types of people around you: those who are with you, those who are for you and those who use you. Pirates are the ones you thought were with you, but end up using you for their own agenda."

[ i always thought there were only 2 types, those who are for Jesus and those who are against Jesus. i don't care if you are for me, actually sometimes if you are for me you might be wrong because i am wrong]

"I’m not saying that the church should be run like a business."

[you kind of were though or you wouldn't have even mentioned it]

"We’re in competition against the evil forces in the world to reach lives. That’s the same battle we all face. But pirating has nothing to do with competition."

[so why are we talking about it? lets talk about how to reach those who are unreached, this pirate business is irrelevant]

my thoughts :)

Re: Theological Worship (songs, hymns)

James McLean — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:42:23 -0000

yeah i love charlie hall, he is one of the few that has singable, theological and creative music. it can be done !

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Proverbs 23 on Food

James McLean — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:53:42 -0000

"or else pizza is gonna send out for you."
ha ha! great movie!

yeah its amazing how we have so many made up church rules now but we have forgotten the simple things that the Bible talks about, take care of your body, take care of your environment. i am slowly unlearning the "rules" and re-discovering what the Bible really says.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: PDWC, I was There (sort of)

James McLean — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:16:52 -0000

so where did you get a Malaysian coke?

makes me think of Zoolander:
"Kill the prime minister of Malaysia!" ha ha!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: How Much is the Blog Worth?

James McLean — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:22:04 -0000

ha ha, mine is worth $0! how do they determine it?

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Help Me With My Drafts, please!

James McLean — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:28:01 -0000

i want to read Salvation and Extreme Home Makeover, i think you may be thinking what i'm thinking but we'll see.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Called to Ministry?

James McLean — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:09:12 -0000

great topic! interesting that we just talked about this in our groups the other night.

i would like to hover around this area for a bit:
"I know I’m called to ministry. So are you."

I don't think that the majority of Christian Americans believe this. We have too many spectators and this was never meant to be. Many are convinced that the great commission and "ministry" is only for the professionals, church staff people, those who are "called". Matt 28:19-20 is for all of us who claim Jesus name.

Also,

"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the CALLING to which you have been CALLED,with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were CALLED to the one hope that belongs to your CALL."- Eph. 4:1-4

Now Paul was speaking to the Ephesians then but if he were here today he would be speaking to our churches.

Here is another example:
"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
who saved us and CALLED us to a holy CALLING, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began"- 2 Tim. 1:8-9

So here is where it ties in with the other posts, if the church is convinced that it is called and is living according to its call, then the pastors are not as distracted in other areas of their lives because the work of the church is for the church not just the pastors! the church is the church no matter where it is, at home, at a job, at a social event, at school, be the church where you are and lets all fulfill our calling.

Miranda,

I also blogged on what could be called "self ministry" as well http://www.resistembrace.com/?p=5
I appreciate what you have to add to the conversation.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Random Video: Young Chuck Norris

James McLean — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 23:39:09 -0000

"he lives forever in the children's eyes"

ha ha! i love how andy samburg looks nothing like chuck!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Introducing Scottish Week at BetterthanBlank

James McLean — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:18:51 -0000

YES! ahh fond memories. i was the only family member without a highland games skill. tried my hand at the bagpipe but it wasn't meant to be. i do toss a mean caber though!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Tuesday

James McLean — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:47:29 -0000

he says in that video that he has Scottish blood, and he think he's Canadian too. hmmnn maybe we're related?

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Monday

James McLean — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:50:05 -0000

technically i think they are British but whatever, they are still funny.

"stop that its silly! and a bit suspect i think."

btw, you guys know that alex's full name is really pretty Scottish right?
Alexander Lachlan McLean
i kid you not, that is his real full name. cats out of the bag.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Wednesday

James McLean — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:13:59 -0000

i think something went wrong with the embedding of that video, i can't watch it and it is just a mess of ugly script. :(

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Thursday

James McLean — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:00:32 -0000

it did it again, it looks scary, like an M. Night movie.

no love for Scottish week?
Man your readers do not support our heritage, i'm hurt. :(

maybe everyone is on vacation or something.

Re: Happy 4th of July!

James McLean — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 21:12:27 -0000

i have to confess something... there is a Budweiser commercial that is out right now that says thanks to the troops... i def teared up during it. i'm proud of our troops!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Friday

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 08:53:48 -0000

wow! this guy is still alive? he's the man!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Wrapping Up

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:08:59 -0000

very informative post.
if you are a reader of history this book may intrigue as well: http://tinyurl.com/5ny5hf

It's called "How the Scots Invented the Modern World: The True Story of How Western Europe's Poorest Nation Created our World and Everything in it."

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Random Video

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:24:25 -0000

ha ha!

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Scottish Week: Wrapping Up

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:27:31 -0000

you better believe i do! i think mom has a copy too, not sure.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Macy Update 7.7.08

James McLean — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:32:01 -0000

i love this girl.

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Preaching from a Treadmill

James McLean — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:56:43 -0000

dangit! i wanted to see you fall. :)

James McLeans last blog post..The Whiteboard Sessions: Mark Batterson

Re: Pastors & Homosexuality

James McLean — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:07:20 -0000

hmmmnn categories are always fun right?

so basically they are encouraging people to get political about helping homosexuals discover how Christians operate? i'm not sure that enacting laws will really do a lot. don't get me wrong i love the Bible and stand on it and i love homosexuals because Jesus died for them. i think there may be a better way that doesn't involve a vote.

i thought it was interesting how he described those who preserved the gospel as being counter cultural and he was right THEY were. i'm not so sure i can say the same about today's Christian leaders, i think a better word would be sub cultural.

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Blog Sessions - Got Ideas?

James McLean — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 13:58:50 -0000

yeah good idea. i think the etiquette thing would be good and the whole idea of it being a conversation that we share. i really like it when people comment and i get to hear different perspectives.

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Pastors & Homosexuality

James McLean — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:04:09 -0000

alex, exactly! this is what i meant about my comment about him thinking they were being counter cultural by voting to enforce Christian standards on people who don't know Christ. this is not counter cultural it is taking the christian sub culture and trying to demand that others live up to it (which often times does not even have biblical standards). this is not how people come to love the truth of Christ, they must see it in us being with them, loving them and showing them that Jesus changes lives. woo hoo! i love life this way!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: My Friend Karl

James McLean — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 13:41:26 -0000

Karl is the man!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Vote for your favorite Twitter Application

James McLean — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 12:59:39 -0000

i have been satisfied with twhirl. i have an ibm and its been great for me!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Happy Birthday Jen!

James McLean — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 08:34:34 -0000

Yahhh Jen! Happy Birthday!

Re: Job Description: Assistant Pastor

James McLean — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:14:04 -0000

ugggh. sounds like a corporation. Paul would be shocked!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: NewSong Cafe: God of This City

James McLean — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:17:59 -0000

this is great!

Re: 40 Day Fast: My Neighbors

James McLean — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:35:15 -0000

this is good. its hard to be a missionary here in america, especially if you grew up here because everything is screaming at you "indulge!". may God continue to call people out of their comfort and into a place where we pour our lives out for others.

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Randy Pausch: 1960-2008

James McLean — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 23:02:46 -0000

ahhhhh! get out of my head! great McLean's think alike.
i read the article on CNN this afternoon and watched the whole "Last Lecture" on you tube. I'm now watching his session on Time Management which he gave at UVA last November. http://tinyurl.com/ys77ek
he has some great things to say. seemed like an exceptional guy!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: What Annoys You?

James McLean — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 21:02:03 -0000

i would concur with politics and add this...people who actually think that voting for a specific candidate is actually going to change something.

oversized pick up trucks.

people who pretend they know what they are talking about when they really don't (honesty and humility go a long way).

churches that care more about programs than people.

guys that wear jean shorts. :)

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: 80’s Rock Indulgance: Bryan Adams - betterthanblank

James McLean — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 21:22:34 -0000

love brian adams! that was back when rockers could actually sing! that "Heaven" live video was awesome. also, have great memories of the trio of them singing "All For Love". I also miss "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman", that was him right? not Rod?

Alex, you have mostly been told that you like Seth Green. :) what do you guys think?
http://tinyurl.com/6amnb2

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: This is Me

James McLean — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:23:53 -0000

"uh yeah, i'm gonna need you to come in on Saturday at around 8am."- Office Space

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: Even Better Than the Real Thing?

James McLean — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:27:57 -0000

ha ha yes! improv everywhere rocks! http://improveverywhere.com/

LOL at the guy that gets ticked at "Bono"!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

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

James McLean — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 10:15:58 -0000

oh this is a great topic and one that does not have a simple response. i understand what Timothy means, we cannot change people, they either worship or they don't. so here is what we can do, we worship hard to God and people see that and join in. this is what i have seen ring true. also, just because people aren't clapping or singing doesn't mean they aren't worshipping.
it is who we are what we do, we worship because we can't help but worship. whether people join in or not is their choice, we hope that they do but we can't manipulate it.
the bigger question is, what are we doing outside of the hour long service to euip and prepare them to be the church? we are calling them to live a lifestyle of worship and mission and you can't get that in 1 hr on Sunday morning.
just my thoughts.

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: I Heart Pandora

James McLean — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:54:55 -0000

yes! completely agree!

James McLeans last blog post..I don’t really know what I’m doing

Re: John Mayer in Chulawana

James McLean — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 14:45:32 -0000

he's coming to NC twice in August. I hope i can catch him!

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Bryan McLaren writes on Evangelism

James McLean — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:51:17 -0000

hey bro,

i think you mean't bryan not brayn right? :)

i think these are some great things. the biggest thing is that we allow people to see Christ in us, because that is what is attractive. the qualities and character of Christ were always attractive, read the gospels, people loved being around him!
if people come to know God its gonna be because they saw Christ in us, i def don't have enough morality or charming qualities to get them to that point.
showing them you care and that you can hang with them and listen and not provide a solution all the time is so crucial. good post!

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Happy Birthday Uncle James!

James McLean — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:34:02 -0000

woo hoo! thanks guys! i don't know if its just because they are in my family but those are the cutest, smartest, best looking kids i have ever seen. thanks miles and macy and alex and jen! can't wait to see you guys at Christmas!

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Rick Warren to Interview Candidates?

James McLean — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:20:58 -0000

yikes! man Warren is walking a fine line.
this is a tough one. i just don't think its a good idea. history has shown some bad things happen when politics and religion mix. just sayin'

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Greatest Invention Ever?

James McLean — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:06:33 -0000

ok so heres the deal, us McLean's have sensitive skin so the electric deal doesn't work because it burns and irritates. i only shave twice a week because i hate it...and i stopped buying mach 3's because they are ridiculously priced. if you dry your razor off after every shave it can last months!

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Not so Random Video: Beer Run

James McLean — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 09:14:08 -0000

ha ha, the music is hilarious. he is rocking out to Britney Spears in his car.

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: ONE VOICE - Were You There?

James McLean — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:16:24 -0000

ok so i wasn't there but i wish that i was.

btw. the new Charlie Hall CD The Bright Sadness comes out tomorrow! I am so stoked!

www.charliehall.com

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Sunday Setlist: 8.17.2008

James McLean — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:15:35 -0000

Freedom! awesome dude! love me some Jason Upton.

Re: Whacked-Wocked Slippidy Slide!

James McLean — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:30:03 -0000

"oing oing oing. okee dokee lord"

"we have these little fat friar tuck bartender angels that travel around with us."

i feel the way i do about Will Farrel movies, on the one hand its hilarious, on the other hand i'm disgusted.

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: QuietTime.tv

James McLean — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:33:43 -0000

hmmnn. seems a bit odd to me. the best way to have quiet time is...well to have quiet time. turn the computer off, get away, listen to God, talk to him. UNPLUG! :)

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: BetterThanBlank: A New Look

James McLean — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:31:22 -0000

love the new look! it is magical!

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Oops, I Don’t Have Terminal Cancer!

James McLean — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:40:07 -0000

i feel like i wrote this blog entry. i agree completely, couldn't have said it better.

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Lessons in Leadership: Leading those Closest to You

James McLean — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:46:04 -0000

wow! this just blew my mind. great thoughts! and so true.

the other reason i believe it is important to lead those closest to you (or sometimes be lead by those closest to you) is that we should always be multiplying leaders. I believe that this is truly what it means to make disciples. We are leading others who lead others who lead others to Jesus.

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Oop’s I Don’t Have Terminal Cancer (part 3)

James McLean — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:04:35 -0000

i just watched the video for the first time. its just upsetting, but it encourages me too because there is no emotional story better than Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again. over and over again i have to hear that 24/7, Jesus always bring attention to Jesus, you can't go wrong. this fraud just made the case, there will be tons of phonies trying to distract you, remember Jesus always.

James McLeans last blog post..Moving from Ideal to Real: If Only

Re: Sarah Palin | Tina Fey

James McLean — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:35:11 -0000

yeah but i think Palin is hotter...just sayin'.

doesn't mean i will vote for her though ha ha.

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Surfacy TV Post

James McLean — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 16:28:37 -0000

sportscenter! woo hoo!
other than that:
Lost
The Office
The Apprentice (i don't know why)
Heroes (i might start this because all my friends like it)

i watch almost all of them online now because i don't have time for TV.

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Kindergarten!

James McLean — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 12:21:22 -0000

wow! they are growing up so fast, i am feeling old right now.

can't wait to see those kids!

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Pray.

James McLean — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 22:39:32 -0000

hey, you can please pray for my church, conVerge church. we are planting in Richmond and in transition. pray that new leadership will rise up and be the church here at the original plant. pray that i will be able to train up a new worship team. pray that all of us will stay humble and dependent on God to build his church.

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Oops, I Don’t Have Terminal Cancer (part 5)

James McLean — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:18:11 -0000

i am so glad this happened, because it is real.

i think it is too soon for this guy to be brought out in the open and interviewed, he needs to stay out of the spotlight for awhile and deal with this thing.

this was the quote that stood out to me "i've told too many people how they should live their lives"...all of us who say we are Christians have to work out the salvation that God has worked in. i have to preach and sing and teach to myself so that it can be real in me and then out of that flows a life inspired by Jesus that changes everything around me.

at the end of it all, we don't get a sensation or prosperity, we don't get all knowledge or success. we get Jesus and that is enough.

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: My Twitpics

James McLean — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 16:11:53 -0000

ok i don't have internet on my phone because i can't afford it so no twitpicing for me but i will say this....you gotta get on twitter people! just got 5 guys from my church to catch on!

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Pray.

James McLean — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:47:26 -0000

thanks bro. things are getting clearer, God is good.

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: 4:21am

James McLean — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:42:44 -0000

ewww to that link to the "Why Would You Want to go to Church". Its like anything else, we don't always want to. I don't always want to pray but i do, i don't always want to exercise but i do. its a discipline not an obligation. we do it because it puts us in a place where God can grow us and move us where he wants to. the bigger question is are Churches equipping people to accomplish the mission of Jesus?

I hope Miles doesn't round house kick me in the face when i come home in December, ha ha!

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: 4:21am

James McLean — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:55:33 -0000

ok i am retarded.
passion won out over thinking in that last post. i didn't read the whole thing! ahhhhh, its good and true. :)

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Women In Ministry | A Shift?

James McLean — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:38:48 -0000

i am wary of campolo, i think he is a mess. with that said, i don't care for most of what he has to say. :)
i do think that it is valuable to read books that challenge the way we typically think so for that i give you props.

here is another viewpoint from the Desiring God website, written by a woman:
http://www.desiringgod.org/Blog/1059_womens_min...

James McLeans last blog post..A Long Obedience in the Same Direction

Re: Dancing Baptists OR Coming Soon to LifeChurch!

James McLean — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:51:43 -0000

wow, the baptists decide to become "relevant".

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: You Need to Read This

James McLean — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:16:45 -0000

i don't think anyone was bashing the big church guys. i think that the important thing is that we are making disciples, this is what we were commanded to do. this involves being with people and in their lives. when your church gets so big that you can't do that, then it is time to get some of those people together and plant a church.

Re: You Need to Read This

James McLean — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:27:40 -0000

also, i'm not suggesting that "the pastor" be in every single persons life, this is impossible, but that he creates a culture where people are encouraged in that way, he being an example of that. of course this is assuming you believe in church leadership where "the pastor" is the head of everything.

Re: Matt Damon vs. Sarah Palin

James McLean — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 11:20:21 -0000

LOL. you know me, i don't pick sides in this battle. he does make a good point that we don't know much about her and that she could become the next president. he does kind of trail off with a bit of nonsense at the end there ha ha.

this is what is curious to me, is McCain that lame of a candidate where his VP gets more adoration and attention than he does?
i have never seen this much hub-bub over a VP.

Re: Random Video

James McLean — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:20:50 -0000

man this was one fine piece of cinematography.

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: If your pastor rides a motorcycle…

James McLean — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:44:43 -0000

yeah these guys look pretty silly. uggghh.

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Palin/Fey: You Knew it was Inevitable

James McLean — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:09:25 -0000

lol, flirg= first lady is really gay. ha ha ha ha ha.

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Shhhhhhh!

James McLean — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:27:16 -0000

he will like my card then, if i can get it sent here soon. :(

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Green Lynx Spider

James McLean — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:12:08 -0000

ewwww.

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: The Birthday Schedule

James McLean — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:13:26 -0000

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MILES!

Re: Spiders!

James McLean — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:28:29 -0000

dude i am seriously close to boycotting your blog for awhile. i am arachnophobic!

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Miles 6 Year Old Birthday (part 2)

James McLean — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:38:22 -0000

i suppose all uncles and relatives feel this way about their families but Miles is a great kid, he is so smart and perceptive, he is a great communicator and he has a big heart. i love him and i can't wait to see him in December!

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Church & Community

James McLean — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:44:12 -0000

oooooh i love this. we would be wise to listen to these guys as there is a lot of truth to looking back on how the Acts church did things. If you ever get to check any of the Ancient-Future books out by Robert Webber you should! Here is a link to his Ancient-Future Worship book http://tinyurl.com/4grcxm
Also Alan Hirsch has a good book called The Forgotten Ways that is a good resource http://tinyurl.com/4nal5z
We have to get a grip on this problem, i meet friends all the time who gripe about the style of music or the pastor's sermon or the building or whatever you can think of. Since when did church become Burger King? "Have it your way right away?"
We have to stop trying to do what everyone likes and instead teach people that once you are saved its not about you anymore and then start listening to God and how he wants his church to be run.
*i don't have any strong opinions about this subject though* :)

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Office Remix (partie deux)

James McLean — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:06:49 -0000

nice, man if i had a couch in my office i would be taking too many naps. ha ha! good for reading though huh?

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Question. Did you watch The Office Season Opener? (Season 5)

James McLean — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 10:27:39 -0000

steve i think Meredith's face was probably a result of some diet pills gone bad. maybe?

my favorite two moments:
"Holly, do you think that i'm retarded?"- Kevin

Dwight putting fruit in the snack machine and then watching it rot the rest of the episode.

and..."I wonder what people would like about my body...probably my jugs."- Phyllis

ha ha ha ha ha, loved it. also, is anyone else still amazed that they were able to find a female Michael by casting the girl who plays Holly? i mean she is so much like him!

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Question. Did you watch The Office Season Opener? (Season 5)

James McLean — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:19:58 -0000

oh yeah the stay puft marshmallow man. also, jabba the hut from star wars was up there too, ha ha.

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: More Spiders!

James McLean — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:23:24 -0000

arggg, why would you do this? i am absolutely terrified now!

James McLeans last blog post..Honesty

Re: Priority One - betterthanblank

James McLean — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:26:28 -0000

yep, good stuff. it is "the only necessary thing". its the simplest thing but usually the hardest discipline for me to get consistent in. recently i was encouraged by one of my professors to start a worry list in the morning of all the things on my mind, then pray all those back to God and accept that he is able to take care of everything and give me the strength to handle the things i need to take care. it helps, i am at peace and trust God better when i do this.
this is just one aspect of prayer. good post.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Honesty</abbr>

Re: Little Things that Drive me Nuts

James McLean — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:33:57 -0000

oh this one is huge:
When I forget a username/password combo to something I need ‘right now’. Then you click the ‘forgot username or password’ button, and it says it will email you, and it doesn’t… The email arrives 24 hours later and becomes completely useless.

hate that.

also i don't like it when people post nasty pictures of spiders on their blog. :)

and for some reason my roommate doesn't throw away any type of container (cans, plastic from yogurt, box from instant rice, milk carton) he leaves it on the counter next to the trash can, he says that it saves space in the trash can. does this make any sense to anyone?

when people act like they know about something when they don't. if you don't know just admit it and ask for help or try to learn. not cool if you pretend to be an expert at something you have no clue about.

trying to meet someone to catch up and encourage them and you end up spending $4 on coffee at starbucks. :(

ok i'm good besides that i think.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Honesty</abbr>

Re: I Finished ‘The Shack’

James McLean — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 14:37:40 -0000

feeling=good theology=bad that was my impression. it was interesting.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..What is the difference?</abbr>

Re: Caption Please

James McLean — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 14:38:44 -0000

i think travis is licking his ear? wow!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..What is the difference?</abbr>

Re: What Kind of Leader Are You?

James McLean — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:30:24 -0000

def #1 relational with a bit of #2 visionary thrown in.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..What is the difference?</abbr>

Re: Christian Rock is Cool!

James McLean — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:49:19 -0000

ha ha ha ha ha. aren't we silly sometimes?

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Thank You Jenni & Peter!

James McLean — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:15:26 -0000

ooooh Henry Nouwen, me likey.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Today we WERE the Church!

James McLean — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:48:25 -0000

well...technically you always are the church, there is not a time when you cease to be the church. :)

but, this is cool, you were the church in action, on mission. this is fantastic for serving your city, for building relationships and reconciling all things back to the Creator!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Spider Battle Live!

James McLean — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:52:25 -0000

top ten ways to make your blog viewing go down.
1-10= keep putting posts up with pictures of spiders in them.
:(

Re: Halloween in my Neighborhood

James McLean — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:47:39 -0000

man that is scary! :)

Re: Who Should I Vote For?

James McLean — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:27:49 -0000

bahh! they all just say what we want to hear. who knows what is true anymore?

also don't forget, these aren't the only two running.
Chuck Baldwin is looking pretty sweet over at the Constitution Party....http://www.baldwin08.com/

Re: New Study Bible & The Shack

James McLean — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:34:56 -0000

yikes i think you just picked a fight. are you referring to the ESV Study Bible? He endorses it, but its not his. i need to gather my thoughts here, more later.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: New Study Bible & The Shack

James McLean — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 23:15:23 -0000

oh ok i get it, its from a joke blog.

so the videos on the shack, i mean they have some validity, we should consider what we read and how it shapes our beliefs. i'm not going to endorse the book or knock it down. its not as bad as everyone says it is and its not as good as everyone says it is. it is one guys thoughts and heart poured into a story. it is his thoughts on how he has come to relate to God based on the hard realities of life. a lot of people will find comfort and encouragement in the book, however we shouldn't turn to it for our truth or guidance, we turn to God's Word for that.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Miles Rocks!

James McLean — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 19:28:12 -0000

nice combination, God so loved the world and a roundhouse kick to the face ha ha!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Hume Lake & Classic Rock Changed my Life

James McLean — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:44:24 -0000

yahhh for Hume Lake (even though i've only been to wagon train camp there) and Joel Weldon! "catch fire from heaven".

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Who Should I Vote For?

James McLean — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:26:18 -0000

and we are off....so if i just vote for the right person then all abortions will stop? its that simple?
seems like we thought that was going to be the case with W.
anyone can cast a ballot and put the weight on a leader. if we really care about babies being killed then we would do something more than just vote. how about volunteering for a girl's home? adopting a child? mentoring a teen?
the government is not going to solve all of our problems we must act and affect change against the things that disturb us.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Who Should I Vote For?

James McLean — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 18:17:01 -0000

the only one who is worthy and the only one who i trust my life with is Jesus Christ.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Every Night

James McLean — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 23:11:45 -0000

miss them, can't wait to come see them at Christmas.
did Miles say "come to papa" when Macy was trying to kiss him?
ha ha ha ha ha hilarious!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Who Should I Vote For?

James McLean — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:24:58 -0000

apparently Jesse didn't read the above comments before him.

By the way i love Louisa, even though we have never met, she is my sister in Christ. That was all i was trying to say is that as Christians our first allegiance is to Jesus. Governments will fail us, should we still vote and all that, sure. Just know that at the end of the day the Lord will have his way.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Apple Supports No on Prop 8 - betterthanblank

James McLean — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:48:34 -0000

ok, i suppose the question should be, who created the institute of marriage? did God create it or did the American government?
i believe God did in Genesis, he was the one who said that it was bad for man to be alone. Marriage is a picture of the covenant between Jesus and his bride (the Church), its all over the Bible. Marriage is still marriage, regardless of what the government says. It is the Church's job to teach,encourage, exemplify Biblical Marriage not the governments!
God knows who is really married and who isn't, he designed marriage.
So what is the best way for Christians to fight this whole issue?
1. Model an Ephesians 5:22-23 Biblical Christlike Marriage.
2. Teach about Biblical Marriage and the Biblical Manhood and Womanhood in your Churches, if your church doesn't do this then find one that does.
3. Love gay people, you are commanded to.
We can't forget, we are Christians first and Americans second.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Apple Supports No on Prop 8 - betterthanblank

James McLean — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:56:43 -0000

ok big OOPS on the scripture reference. It is supposed to say Ephesians 5:22-33. Yikes! That looks bad! I am more concerned that the Men love their wives like Christ loves the Church because this makes 5:22-23 work a lot better. ok enough said.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..Something is Wrong</abbr>

Re: Yes I do Dishes…

James McLean — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:10:44 -0000

i know you will think i'm crazy but i actually enjoy doing dishes, it helps me think or something, i can't explain it.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: 16 Random Things

James McLean — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 23:04:17 -0000

yeah i'm with you i don't like nuts, but i have started eating Almonds because i know they are good for me.

ha ha i remember the Sunbird, that thing got driven pretty rough.

degrees don't equal success, knowledge does. i know plenty of people with degrees who are completely "uneducated". i think you know a lot more than many of those with degrees.
:)

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Pumpkins Carved!

James McLean — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:54:09 -0000

i'm guessing you did the skull one? that's just how you roll.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Gas Shower!

James McLean — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 18:42:38 -0000

"you don't think i know what a eugooglie is?"

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Miles Kicks Butt!

James McLean — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:30:55 -0000

Miles, i was not as cool as you when i was a kid. you are the bomb and i love you.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Ed Young (Politicked) Wears Tom’s Shoes! - betterthanblank

James McLean — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:35:31 -0000

i can't put my finger on it but i just can't get into Ed Young anymore. he kinda creeps me out a little.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Jello Puddin’ Pops! - betterthanblank

James McLean — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:38:30 -0000

J-E-L-L-O! that's great, yeah that is totally something Dad would do.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: 24 11/23 & 108 Days

James McLean — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 01:07:48 -0000

dude, Lost is so far superior to 24 at this point. Just sayin'.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Who I Should Vote for.

James McLean — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 01:12:12 -0000

what no recognition for Chuck Baldwin? He's on the ballot and a Christian too! http://www.ontheissues.org/Chuck_Baldwin.htm

ha ha Cynthia McKinney is a joke. "According to an official press release, Green Party nominee Cynthia McKinney is committed to environmentalism, non-violence and social justice. Ironically, McKinney is infamous for an altercation with a Capitol Hill security guard. CNN reported McKinney struck a security guard who stopped her from entering the building without the required lapel pin."

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Who I Should Vote for.

James McLean — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 01:13:14 -0000

What about Chuck Baldwin?

http://www.ontheissues.org/Chuck_Baldwin.htm

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Let’s get ready to Rrrrrrrrrrummmmmble! - betterthanblank

James McLean — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:52:58 -0000

i agree with Becky.

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: A New Day - betterthanblank

James McLean — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:06:57 -0000

both speeches were good. the people have spoken, this is what most of them wanted. i think he will be fine. he's not as good as everyone thinks and he's also not as bad as everyone thinks. Congrats Obama! Let's see what he can do!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Behind the Scenes - betterthanblank

James McLean — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:44:06 -0000

all i know is that hologram that CNN did was sick!

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..God Is After Our Joy</abbr>

Re: Deacons | Servant Leaders

James McLean — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 23:45:29 -0000

I really appreciate what you said about the different gifts and how you need each one, i also believe we need to help people celebrate and use these gifts. Often times we try to expect people to have our gifting when we really need to be helping them find theirs and then helping cultivate it.

My church is Elder led (Titus 1:5-9) and it has worked well.
I think its also important to remember that Pastors, Elders, Deacons, etc. job is not only to do the work of the church (although they will be living the Mission of Jesus just as much as a member) but to equip the saints(believers, members of the church) for ministry, according to Ephesians 4:11-12.
Many church members can forget that we are all called to be the church. The leadership of the church is responsible to equip those people and ensure that they are discovering their gifts and using them to live out the Great Commission.

Re: Deacons | Servant Leaders

James McLean — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:40:26 -0000

ok I should clarify, what i meant by the church leadership equipping ( and maybe this is limited more to elders and pastors) is that we should be sure that we are not creating a culture in which those coming into the church become consumers. We want to encourage those who become members to be active in living out the mission of Jesus. ok end soapbox.

Re: Catching Up (2 weeks in photos)

James McLean — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:21:44 -0000

Miles was Darth Vader? I am so jealous, that has to be the coolest costume. When i was his age i was a smurf. :( not so cool.

Re: Catching Up (2 weeks in photos)

James McLean — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:55:31 -0000

i don't know, ask mom.

Re: Blog Bottleneck

James McLean — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:46:32 -0000

yeah i am interested to hear how that eschatology works out for you.
i kind of roll like this, Jesus is coming back someday, we better be ready.

Re: Miles Sings about Thankfulness

James McLean — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 17:15:17 -0000

i get to see them soon in person! woo hoo!

Re: Robots

James McLean — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:28:00 -0000

Lol! love the onion.

Re: How long does it take 4 McLean’s to setup a Tree?

James McLean — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 10:31:33 -0000

and that is without ornaments! man i miss the real tree from growing up but hey you gotta do watcha gotta do.

the funniest thing about this video....watch Macy throughout she is all over the place ha ha and i think at one point she stops and poses for pics that her mama takes of her. hilarious!

Re: Some thoughts on Communuty inspired by Alan Hirsch

James McLean — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 10:52:56 -0000

i like Alan Hirsch. I believe what he's saying here is that our choices and philosophy of life needs to come from the Bible if we are to effectively live out the mission of Jesus. Many Christians try to start with the culture they are in and then interpret the Bible based on that. We should be doing the reverse. What does the Bible say? Now how do i make that happen in this culture?
And there is a way to do it that represents the gospel well. protesting and legalism would be a poor representation as well as failure to mention the fall, sin and redemption.
I believe people come to Christ when they see a group of people (the Church) walking in the ways of Jesus so passionately and selfless that they are given a clear picture of joy and peace and love and how things were always meant to be before the fall. I know it seems idealistic but with Christ i have hope that its possible.
Good Post!

Re: Christmas Music (part 2)

James McLean — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:25:42 -0000

oh man, good memories.

Re: wibo: john burke

James McLean — Fri, 23 May 2008 11:38:11 -0000

oh no! you missed probably the best session! i'll try to get my notes up soon, if anyone cares to hear my take on how things went. btw alex mclean is my bro. i think you guys are blog buddies.

Re: Worship Books - Which Ones?

James McLean — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:24:51 -0000

fred,

i would say two that i have read and liked in the past are:
Rory Noland- The Heart of the Artist
Robb Redman- The Great Worship Awakening

<abbr>James McLeans last blog post..What is the difference?</abbr>