How Does It Feel?

"How does it feel to observe your son in this setting?" That was the question put to me by one of the team leaders my oldest son is privileged to have around him as he is looked to for direction and vision for a large student ministry. The setting was an annual retreat attended by a couple of hundred middle-school students. In addition, there were numerous adults comprising the worship band, technical team, small group facilitators and others serving in a variety of ways.

It was deeply satisfying. To see his influence rippling throughout the team and on to the students...yeah, that is deeply satisfying.

As a parent, I think most of us want our children to "go beyond" anything we experienced. I'm not referring to cloning what we've done but, perhaps, re-creating and re-shaping new methods resulting in greater achievements.

As I reflect on the lives of 2 sons, 1 daughter and their respective spouses, I am amazed at the opportunities they have been presented. Like the prophet Daniel, each is strategically positioned geographically and vocationally to do "great exploits for God." Their stories are still being written but it appears they are each catching a glimpse of something far greater than what I've known. Like an unfolding drama with twists and turns but full of rewards, it is my delight to observe and regularly shout the loudest of cheers, "You're doing great. Keep at it. Follow Him closely, for the best is yet ahead!"

Seems to me, that God, my heavenly Father, feels a deep satisfaction when I move in ways that reflect His power to re-create and restore the human condition. It makes me think of the power of "random acts of kindness." But is it really random? I think it is quite intentional.

Missing Grandchildren

Has anyone seen these two? The fair-haired little boy is 8 months old and, truth be told, is just about perfect. And the precious bundle of energy squeezing her Popi's face, she is soon-to-be three. It's been too many days since I saw them last and it's beginning to feel a little to heavy.

Within the next four months the number of this tribe will double. I say, "Bring 'em on." I want to be very intentional about being in the lives of my grandchildren. I think grandparents have something significant to contribute to their lives. We are the embodiment of a story that stretches back in time and testifies to the faithfulness of God through generations. In our family, this is a story that is fresh, current and continually being written.

Tracking the redemptive footprints of God in the past was difficult because there was barely traceable evidence. Over the past 30-40 years that has changed dramatically. The footprints and fingerprints of God is all over this family. God has been our refuge in dark seasons and our delight in celebration. He is common to our conversation and the essence of what makes "us" the family we are.

Parenting is a difficult challenge. I watch from a distance now and admire the effort my kids are putting forth to shape these grandkids of mine. I'm honored that they desire as much involvement as I can provide.

Several years ago while pastoring a church with many folks who make up this distinguished segment of society called grandparents, I picked up a book titled Grand-Parenting. Just today I have reviewed some it's content. I'm in a unique position as a grandfather. As Kesler writes in his book, "...grandparents share the longer and larger view that they have gained from life's experiences, they can reinforce the truths that parents attempt to teach without encountering the same resistance that parents experience."

If you pass these grandchildren, let them know Popi is missing them terribly.

Transformational Leadership... tapping in to the best in others

Often there is a disconnect between leaders and those they lead. A poll conducted by Harris Interactive indicated only 15% of the people polled felt their organization fully enabled them to execute strategic goals. Empowerment is key to success on a personal and organizational level. I read of a story told by Susan, who met the “best receptionist she had ever met.” This receptionist was the face of the company for anyone visiting the operation. Prominently placed on the receptionist’s desk was a sign:

RECEPTIONISTVILLE, POPULATION 1.

Susan’s short, but engaging exchange, with a receptionist whose self described title of “Intergalactic Empress” revealed someone empowered to express herself. Of course this is a delicate dance but the rewards are well worth the effort. When people are empowered they feel valued. The result is each person is fully present for the tasks they are responsible for and the organization is the better for it.

There are “receptionists” at every level of organizations. Every team has members that, with encouragement and a safe environment, can be coached to bring so much more. Tapping in to the creative and imaginary resources present in people one of the most opportune challenges facing any leader.

Some questions to consider (perhaps with the person you are leading):
What do you find fulfilling about your role here? Do you have what you need to be successful? Of the things lacking, what is most necessary for you to take the next step toward success? What are your ideas to make us better at what we do?

It Really Happened... in a courtroom

I have several friends who are experienced and quite exceptional in their chosen vocations. Some are attorneys. I have always walked lightly when it comes to attorney humor but found that, among my friends, they can easily laugh at their own expense. Here’s one that ranks at the top and it actually took place during trial between an attorney and a witness.

Q: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?

A: No.

Q: Did you check for blood pressure?

A: No.

Q: Did you check for breathing?

A: No.

Q: So then, it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?

A: No.

Q: How can you be so sure, Doctor?

A: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.

Q: But could the patient have still been alive nevertheless?

A: It is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law somewhere.

From the Vancouver Sun, “There Ought to be a Law.”