FIRST & GOAL

I am really grateful for the number of people that have joined and been a part of FIRST, we're DOWN on our knees.  Your prayers have helped in signifigant ways!  Over 200 people joined the group on Facebook, with others commenting here, or telling me personally they were praying for God's Kingdom to come at BSU.

But now, it is time for the next step:  First & Goal.  First, we pray for BSU.  Second, we are trying to reach a financial goal.  But we're going to have fun doing it.  Boise State will play in a Bowl Game, probably in January.  We are encouraging people to give and help us reach a goal of $25,000 to help with the purchase of a property and other start-up expenses.

Here's how it works:
Option 1:  Pledge an amount per point that BSU scores in their bowl game.  If you pledge $1, and BSU scores 17 points (regardless of winning or losing...we're not betting!).  You would then send in a donation of $17.  You can also choose a minimum or maximum amount.  Let's say you pledge $10 per point.  And you set a minimum of $100 or a maximum of $250.  If BSU scores under 10 points, then you would send in a gift of $100.  If BSU scores 28 points, you would send in your maximum of $250.

Option 2:  You can pledge a flat amount, not based on points.  Simply pledge or send in a gift for whatever total amount you choose.  Some suggestions.  You could send in a field goal-$300.  Or send in a Touchdown $700.  Any amount you decide.  It's not based on points, just whatever set amount you decide.

To pledge, fill out the following form online: 

Pledge form
 

Now for the other fun part!!!  We are going to have a celebration tail gate party.  During the Fiesta Bowl, we are inviting anyone who wants to come to a tailgate party.  We will start at 5:30 on January 4th, have food, and watch the game on large screen tv's.  At half time, we will spend some time celebrating what God is doing through this ministry, and spend some time praying for God's kingdom to come through us at BSU.  If you are on Facebook, r.s.v.p. here:  Facebook R.S.V.P.   If you are not on Facebook, email me or leave a comment to this post.

To close, a brief thought about Christmas:  Christmas is not about presents, it is about presence.  Will you help us be that presence to the Boise State Campus?

Many blessings,
Ben

Anything is possible from the 50.

We're in the middle of the football season, and there is a saying in the football world that "anything is possible from the 50." Touchdowns. Field Goals, Big plays, First Downs, etc. Things are looking good, confident, and hopefully, moving forward. Back on your own 10 or 20, everything looks a lot harder, and a lot further.

We are also just over 50 days in our 100 days of prayer for God's kingdom to come at Boise State University. And anything is possible. We're moving forward.

Several of the ministries on campus have given reports of amazing retreats. Others have noticed that although fewer in number, there is greater depth of the students, more focus, more leadership, and more involvement. Some groups have conducted baptisms. Others are sensing a new direction, as a leader or as a group. God has been answering our prayers!

And the requests continue. All of the ministries have noticed resources are tighter. Unlike churches, campus ministries do not have a tithing base. Would you pray for God to provide for all of the ministries? And if God gives you the ability to help financially, contact Ben Moore (group admin) and I can get you the address of a ministry that pulls at your heart. Also pray for wisdom, peace, and direction as ministry leaders are forced to make tough decisions. And continue to pray for faculty, staff, and students that they might recognize God's amazing love for them and respond to it.

Finally, some words from "Why Pray?" by John Devries.
"People are not merely isolated individuals to be won to Christ one at a time. A person is always part of a social fabric. A person has a home, relatives friends, and neighbors, all who influence each other. When we pray for people we should always be praying for their home, family, and sphere of influence. Our prayers should always be for more than individuals. They should shine God's light on the entire sphere of influence--their . God indicates the nations can be brought to Him--it's for the asking."

In the next four weeks, BSU football has national exposure every week. If you watch the games, when you hear, "It's a Boise State First Down," think and pray with me that "First, we're Down on our Knees" for God's kingdom to come.

Thanks for praying. Grace and peace.

It's a BSU FIRST DOWN!

Yes, I like football...and I am rooting for the Broncos.

But this isn't about football. It's a about prayer. God has been showing me a lot about prayer recently. One of the things that he is showing me is that prayer cannot be just another part of the ministry--another wall to build. It must be the foundation. FIRST, we're DOWN on our knees. Unless the Lord builds this house we labor in vain. And so, with that in mind, we are having 100 days of prayer for BSU.

In Brief-
*2000 people from many ministriies and churches participate.
*100 Days of prayer--Sept. 12 to Dec 20 (100 yards in a football field)
*10 Key areas of prayer (10 yards to make a First down!)

If you would like to show you are praying with us, you may join our facebook group http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=271153910650&ref=ts#/group.php?gid=271153910650&ref=ts
or leave a comment with your first name and last initial.

Prayer guides are available as well. See the links section.

A Greek example

I was at a small men's Bible Study a week ago, and we read from Act 17, where Paul goes to Athens. I had the Message translation with me, and was quite moved by the story and found many links to the BSU Campus ministry. (Here is a link to the passage from the Message. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2017:16-34&version=65)

Here are the observations we made as a group that relate to the ministry:
1. Paul was angry with the idols, but his anger was not taken out on people. Rather, he got to know some of them pretty well (vs 17-18)
2. Some want to learn, some want to debate.
3. Paul takes what is already common, and uses the Athenian culture to build a bridge. And he uses what they value--Intelligence--as an entry way. Vs. 23. He is appealing to them intellectually. How true is that of a university setting? And he doesn't call them stupid, but rather calls them to know more, and make a good decision.
4. Paul then appeals to their own poets and writers...in other words, he has listened to them speak. Paul also shows a tremendous amount of respect towards the Athenian people. And some say he's crazy. Some say, "let's talk more." And some become Christ followers. I am so fascinated to see that Paul was so angry at all the idols, yet is so respectful of the people there. You'd never know he was angry with his words and respect that he shows.

As we encourage the BSU campus to drink deep of God's pure kindness, we want to do so with respect and gentleness. Understanding the culture, the people, and the values, listening first. And one day we, too, will have the right opportunity to tell people about their unknown God. And some will become Christ followers--until then, we pray.

Distractions

It seems the last week and a half have been full of distractions--some good, some not so good, but all seem to pull me away from focusing on the ministry. Here's a summary:

Friday July 24, 4:30 a.m. I take my son Bretton to the ER with excruxiating stomach pains. He'd been crying for 3+ hours. After several hours, they can't find anything wrong that caused the stomach pains, but did find a potentially difficulty in an enlarged kidney (we think he's had since birth.)

Friday July 24, 6 p.m. Teegan falls off the front porch putting many scratches, cuts and bruises on his face. This begins several days of not feeling well.

Saturday, July 25: I find out my grandpa is taken by ambulance to the ER.

Sat-Tue: Bretton rests and feels better. Teegan gets a low-grade fever.

Wednesday 7/29: Teegan's eye is al matted. Dr says Pink Eye.

My grandfather continues to go up and down, and we are prepared to make a trip to Missouri in a moment's notice. It could be days, it could be months.

Although these distractions are in many ways a priority over the ministry, it still is frustrating. And then comes the dsitraction of worry--how to pay for it all, how to balance the time, how to move ahead, etc. Is this the devil trying to get us down?

And then, the reminder that In His name, there is mercy for sin, there is safety within, there is strength to remain, to stand in spite of pain. And I remember that He regins. And quite frankly, we have it good compared to so many right now. And I come away more focused, more centered, and more looking forward to what God wants to do. Ironic that a distraction is becoming another place for me to see God at work and to reveal his Holy name to BSU! Whodathunkit?!

2nd Class Citizen

Recently, I went to the district youth camp. Not to encourage students to go to BSU, but to find those that feel like God has led them there. I shared a few minutes in the service. When they introduced me and said that I was starting a ministry at BSU, there were some students that booed me. Not a big deal...some are from other states/area that are rivals of BSU.

Yet, no students came to talk to me about the BSU ministry at the given time. The perception I had was that students who attended BSU were considered traitor's to NNU. While this is not an official position by the district or NNU, for some reason, this perception exists.

I guess the thing that bothers me the most is that BSU campus is filled with people for whom Christ died. As I tried to sleep later that night, this thought hit me hard. I can't change the perception of others, but for me, it was reminder of what God is doing in my heart for this campus...creating a deep burden for God to do a wonderful miracle. And my heart is quickened by every step we take closer to ministering to this community. May God help us not to see others as someone to 'boo" but rather, as someone that Christ loves very much!

Update, June 8, 2009

First an update on district assembly: It went very well, and we have received wonderful encouragement and feedback. Many new connections were made, both for students and churches. At first, people wondered why were there--thinking we were"recruiting" for BSU, but once they found out the real reason the attitude was very different. We are so grateful for everything! And if you stopped by the booth--thanks! Our giveaway winner was Phyllis Russell of Nampa.

Second-Location: We have several possibilities of location right now, but we are just in the beginning stages of looking at them.

Third, Speaking: I spoke at New Hope Church in Boise and felt like God really helped. It was a thrill. I have June 21st as the next speaking engagement regarding the ministry at Castle Hill Community in Boise. And I have met with several pastors regarding future opportunities.

Fourth, Newsletter: An email newsletter should be coming out next week. IF you are interested in receiving it, please drop me a line.

Finally, a thought from the book Why Pray? When we pray, we shouldn't just pray for the individual, but for every person they can influence for Christ. So we don't just pray for a person, but for their sphere of influence as well. So would you pray that BsU will become a place of good soil, ready for the word of God? Thanks for praying!

An Amazing Stat!

Boise State has the the lowest ministry to student ratio of 6 major university campuses.

Oregon- 1 ministry to every 1200
Ohio State - 1 to 600
Missouri State 1 to 900
Clemson 1 to 900
UCLA 1 to 800

Boise State: 1 to 1500.

What a mission field!

Update, May 12

First, I found a book last week called Reaching the Campus Tribes, by Benson Hines. It is a free e-book download at http://www.reachingthecampustribes.com/, The whole point of this book is to recognize that campus ministry is more like international missions than Christian Education (i.e. youth group). It is an amazing book! I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. It's less than 120 pages long, but articulates much of what I've been thinking! I'll be writing more about it, I'm sure. If you're interested in some of my favorite quotes, let me know, and I'll send you my list.

Second, this is a big week for us!!!! So far, we've been going up the first hill of the roller coaster. We're about to crest the top and gain momentum!!! It is the Intermountain District Assembly this week, and our exposure will go from a few churches to many! We're doing special things, and have a booth there. In my mind (it's not an official goal), I have a goal of $40,000 in faith promises to get things started this year. Would you pray with me in this area? We will also be doing some give-aways and showing a video. Please pray for the following: 1) strength for me, and a good attitude as I get tired, and an ability to share the vision; 2) getting everything done--printing, buying, video, etc; 3) my mom as she watches two energetic boys; 4) strength for Tami who will be joining me at the booth; and 5) receptive hearts. Thanks so much!! I'll try to update how it is going throughout the week.

And finally...the ACTION PLAN IS FINISHED!!! It was sent last week to the District Superintendent. Thanks for your prayers in this area! If you want a copy emailed to you, let me know. I won't be able to send all the addendums, but you can read the main part of the action plan.

One last note: just a reminder that God is so good. He is in this process! Thanks for journeying with us!

Grace and peace,
Ben

Panic or Hope...and news about the property

Easter Sunday, I had the privilege of preaching at our church--Five Mile Nazarene. Pastor Ben Turner had taken his dad to the dr. on Friday, and Saturday a.m., his dad had his own Easter service with Jesus! With all that happening, Pastor Ben asked me to preach. I was fascinated with the passage in John 20. Mostly, I was fascinated with Mary Magdalene's two responses to the disciples. First-"They've taken him and I don't know where." Can you hear the PANIC? Later after John and Peter run to the tomb, find it empty, and then leave Mary there by herself, Mary encounters the risen Christ. She returns to the disciples saying, "I've seen the Lord!" Words full of HOPE! I can't help but wonder, though, which the world hears most from Christians--They've taken Jesus. Or that we have encountered the risen Jesus and seen Him at work in our lives? Panic, or Hope? This ministry is all about bringing hope to students at BSU who live in a world of panic. My prayer is that this is what this minsitry is known for: Hope. What a privilege!

That being said, I recieved news that the house we were wanting to buy had an offer made on it and was accepted. I don't know who made the offer. Here again, do I panic, or hope. I choose hope. At this point, several things could happen: someone buys it for themselves, someone buys it for us, or the sale falls through. As much as I liked this property, I find myself at peace, and full of hope that God sees the big picture, knows what is best, and will show the way. If we have prayed that God open and shut the right doors, then if this door shuts for this property, that is an answer to prayer. I find myself not praying that it will go one way or another. Rather, I'm praying that God will do whatever will glorify himself the most and become part of His-story (history) in the retelling of this ministry for years to come! Let's be people of hope and let's keep praying that God's will be done, that He'll show us the right direction to go location wise!

Blessings and Hope to you!

Puzzle Pieces

Have you ever sensed that you are part of something big, something God is using? I feel like this all the time with this ministry!

It's almost like I have a general idea what the puzzle looks like, and then I keep discovering another piece to the puzzle. That's been the case a couple of times recently. I meet someone and wonder if they are a piece to the puzzle...sometimes I know they are, sometimes I am guessing, and sometimes I invite them to choose to. Like recently, a suprise piece...a student came up to me at church. She attends Northwest Nazarene University and said, "God is calling me to a coffee shop ministry, and I want to be a part." I know God is providing people and resources.

Regardless, God is up to much more than I see, and I know He has all the puzzle pieces. And in due time, he will reveal them to us.

By the way, some have asked, "How do we give?" Eventually, we'll have our own checking account, but for now, send checks to: InterMountain District, PO Box 1159, Nampa, ID 83653. Mark the memo section BSU Campus ministry.

Prayer request: We are still trying to secure the location, and are taking the next step to do so. Also, would you pray for student leaders to show themselves.

Thanks for drinking deep,
Ben

Property and name

Hey all,

First, here is a link to the campus ministry in Nebraska that is doing what we are doing and starting a coffee shop. http://www.growmagazine.org/story_NewDestination.html

Second, Tami and I went and looked at a house today. You can see pictures here: www.tourfactory.com/474846 . Also, in the video bar off to the right you can see videos we took. (or go to http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=F423D86F83776680) It really would be a great place from our perspective. Very little remodeling would need to be done. Pray with us for God’s best will and for the wisdom to know what to do. I am trying not express my true excitement, but to walk intentionally and expectantly. In other words, we really liked the place, but we don’t want to commit to strongly yet! Some of the things that will hold us back are immediate fund availability, and a conditional use regarding zoning.

Third, did you notice where the property is located? It is on Potter Street. (Tami and I both found that funny and ironic!) Joy suggested waiting until we know about this property before finalizing a name. When I told Dr. Borger (the District Superintendant) about the house and then the location, he chuckled before I even mentioned anything about the name. Tami and I both agree with Joy on waiting to finalize the name until we decide on this property. The Potter House (or Potter’s) would be such a natural fit. If we find a different location, the top name choice right now is Revive! We would appreciate your continued prayers!

Last night, I had a dream. In this dream, Tami and I invited a few people to a Bible Study. When the time came for the Bible study, people started coming and kept coming. We kept adding space, tables, chairs, subdividing, until there were around 450 people. I'm not saying it was prophetic or anything, but something about it encouraged me. And maybe, it will encourage you as well.

Finally, some prayer requests: please continue to pray for the action plan, location, and name. Also, please pray for student leaders. God is so good, and I just can't wait to be surprised by Him again. Thanks!

Additional Pics

Names, Prayer, and a general update

I apologize for taking so long to write again. We are still adjusting to Tami's work schedule, etc.



First an update: I am in the process of creating an action plan that can be given to the district advisory board. This will help us to stay on track and plan as thoroughly as we can. Would you pray for me as I write it? I find it daunting, and it is more comprehensive than many seminary papers!



I have met with the New Hope Church board, the District Missions Council, several students, and with a realtor who is doing some research for us. Every one of these meetings have been a blessing, and I come away with a new sense that God is up to something big. There is that general sense among campus ministry leaders of God preparing the way on the campus of BSU. It's pretty exciting!



Name: This has been so tough! We are trying ot find a name that is catchy, simply, has a spiritual connection, and bridges between coffee shop. It has been taxing, to say the least. The leadership team is narrowing it down (again) to 3 or 4 that we like, and then will survey some sutdents. I would really appreciate your prayers in this area.



Prayer: I have been reading the book Why Pray? It is such a powerful book! I have been challenged more and more not to pray that God blesses our plans for this ministry. Rather, I am praying that we discover and implement God's plans for this ministry! I am attempting to create a monthly prayer calendar that gives specific ways to pray. I am also hoping to send out a weekly or bi-weekly email with updates. If you would like to recieve this email, please let me know. I'm inviting you to pray with me--Prayer-paration is the single greatest thing we can do right now. God wants to shing the spotlight of His love, and our praying will can direct that spotlight! Thanks so much! I'll write more on this later...

Stompin Grounds - Part 2

Most of the people I talk with regarding the name like the name. But there has been one thing that has caused some hesitancy. There is no spiritual connotation. For instance, Potter's House has a reference to Isaiah 64 which says, "You are the Potter and I am the clay." The name isn't overtly Christian, but there is a connection. Why is this important??? We don't want to be considered deceptive, or pulling a bait and switch. We don't want it to be a stumbling block to someone. That is the main reason. It would also be helpful to use the name as a talking point that can lead the discussion (when appropriate) to spiritual matters. I can think of ways to do that with Stompin Grounds. For instance, saying "Your Stompin grounds is where you grew up, and we want you to grow up spiritually." But it does seem like a stretch to me. So what do you think about the issue? It seems to me we have two options: add a tag line, or change the name. There are advantages to both. What insights do you have?

Stompin Grounds

Well the advisory team met for nearly 2 hours last Saturday. We brainstormed a number of ideas for a name of the ministry and came up with "Stompin Grounds." It ties in with several things: BSU Broncos, Grounds=coffee, and is a common phrase for where I'm from, where I grew up, where I hang out. I like the name. What do you think? Do you have any comments or thoughts. Any connotations that we should be aware of, etc? (I've since learned there are five or six stompin(g) grounds coffee shops around the country.)

On a different note, I really sensed a unity and delight in the advisory team. They are great team members with many resources and ideas. They get it. There were four of us present--no, scratch that, there were five of us present because Christ was certainly in our midst. We just have this sense that God is up to something huge!!

I met with a couple of people today. Bill is the campus minister's association president at BSU. Tremendous man with a heart for God. I look forward to working with him. I also met Steve, who has operated a bookstore campus ministry for nearly 20 years. A wealth of information, and very helpful.

And I met with Chris. Chris attends a Nazarene church in Boise, and moved here from the Dakotas last June. He is becoming quite a man of God! But get this...Chris and I met in 2003 at a camp. He actually was one of the guys that picked me up from the airport. I didn't recognize him at first, but he remembered me. (He's gotten more mature!) Just another one of those things that I couldn't dream up if I had tried. Again, just this sense that God knows what he is doing and is coordinating this whole thing more than anything I could do. Wow, what a blessing!

We appreciate your prayers. Again, I WANT to hear from you regarding your thoughts on the name "Stompin Grounds."

Honestly, I feel like Moses more and more. I just feel so unqualified for many of the requirements to do this. But maybe that's the problem--I've tried to do things I'm not real qualified to do. But God is good, and he will show the way.

Here is an update and ways to pray:
1. I meet with the leadership team this weekend. Woud you pray for direction, leadership, and God's presence?
2. Tami found a job and starts tomorrow! It is really an answer to prayer!
3. It's time to pick a name--see the poll on the right to have your input.
4. Please pray for a location, and someone to help us through the process regarding finacial issues, government (city & state issues), and wisdom.

Also, I have made a brochure, bookmark, and commitment card that I hope to post here soon. Keep checking back!