Campus Ministry is like washing dishes

I learned something today.  Campus ministry is a lot like doing dishes.  At my house, one of my chores is washing the dishes--by hand.  We don't have a dish washer.  And today, it struck me how much campus ministry is like doing dishes--you never seem to get done, it means getting your hands dirty and serving, and when you think you are done, a whole new load or batch of dishes is ready to be washed at the next meal.  Sometimes, I have to scrub hard, and there are students that need a good scrubbing.  Sometimes, dishes need to soak awhile.  That's true for students--they may not respond right away to the good news of Jesus, until they've soaked in it awhile.  And for us, in the beginning of this ministry, it seems like all we do is the hard, gritty work that never ends.  One day it will be worth it, just like seeing a sparkling glass--a student will sparkle as they share their lives with others.  Honestly, I hate doing the dishes and would gladly give it away, but I love campus ministry.  What other ways can you think of that (campus) ministry is like doing dishes.  Write a comment and let us know.

Our new name...

...is Crosswalks Coffee.

It's been an interesting journey, to say the least. Picking the right name for us was much harder than we could have thought. But we found the right one--the perfect one for us!
Why Crosswalks? For several reasons:

1. There are a lot of crosswalks at Boise State.
2. Crosswalks offer safety.
3. Crosswalks are part of the on-going journey.
4. Crosswalks offer guidance and direction.
5. Crosswalks (plural) suggests community.
6. Our story has periods of waiting and periods of stepping forward.
7. Most importantly, we want people to walk towards the Cross of Christ so they can experience the joys of an abundant life with Him!

It fits in so many ways! It says everything we were hoping to say in a name. We hope you find it rich and meaningful as well! Here's a video with more:



A side note: the last scene was shot 6 months before we knew our name. Isn't that just like God?

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

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.

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!

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

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?

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!

Humbled and Grateful Heart

I find myself very humbled right now. I am grateful for Boise First Community Center adopting us as their ministry couple for Christmas. They took a love offering for us that will get us into much of January financially! Thank you Boise First, and thank you God! Thank you Pastor Wiseman for sensing God's voice. We are incredibly grateful!

We also recieved the first check made to the district (Intermountain District Church of the Nazarene) as a gift for the ministry!!! How awesome is that!

Oh, and I did some work this week for my brother, and was suprised by his trip out here. It was a good time, and I am grateful for his influence, help, and advice.

I find myself a blessed man, and find myself so very grateful! Thank you!!!

The journey so far

Well, the journey so far has been interesting.

It started several months ago. After a time of prayer, Tami and I began to see that we needed to move to Boise, Idaho, and we felt like we wanted to started a ministry to Boise State University. We have a good model: The Potter's House in Springfield, MO, and would like to become an incarnational, relational representation of Christ to this campus.

So we picked up and moved. No jobs, no house, just God's call. Tami came out a week or so before me and looked for housing. We found a great house to rent. God brought great peace about the place, and we feel like God gave us a good price.

The next part is to meet with the local Nazarene pastors in the area. I got the sense of "Ah, finally." So now it is up to the district advisory board to make final plans. God has shown up all over the process so far--providing gifts of food, gas, money etc. I come away each time with a feeling of God is good, and I am often looking to the sky to just say thanks. The strange thing is that it has come from so many places, yet all from one source!

Now we wait for the advisory board. We are not sure when they will meet, but we are trusting in His timing.