the Tapestry Church

LINKS & INFO for the ACTIVAT3 Conference that you NEED!

2011-08-02T16:38:00.000-04:00

The ACTIVAT3 Conference is HALFWAY filled now!

So, keep that in mind as you prepare for this amazing event and do not forget to get the following as you come:

1 – Get a ticket to the event here: http://www.eventsbot.com/events/eb463052655

2 – Get the iPhone App here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/activat3/id451364824?mt=8

3 – Get the Android App here: http://bit.ly/p4SJH5

4 – Get the Windows Mobile App here: http://bit.ly/pA9NTg

5 – See all our apps here: http://activat3.tapestrylife.org/

5 – Get more info here: http://tapestrychurch.com/?page_id=1005

6 – Email connect-dawkins@tapestrychurch.org and with the Subject Line: “Signing up for Outreach.” Give your name, the number in your party and the names of those in the party to sign up for the Saturday Afternoon Outreach we will have in the area.

Get ACTIVAT3D! iPhone | iOS | Android | Windows Mobile FREE

2011-07-28T12:08:00.000-04:00

Get ACTIVAT3D!

http://activat3.tapestrylife.org/

Description
Welcome to the official ACTIVAT3 Conference Application for the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android & Windows Mobile.

This app is your guide to the annual ACTIVAT3 Conference in Washington, DC. With devotions, news, local information, Twitter feed and messaging built in. This app is for more than just a conference, it is for an ongoing movement!

You will definitely be connected!

WiFi Internet is required for iPod touch & some iPads.

For more information about the Tapestry Church, please visit: http://www.tapestrychurch.com/

Features
This app has:
- A devotional
- Video clips
- Tweets about the latest news for the conference to keep you connected.
- A messaging area where you can communicate with the lead team during the outreaches while out and about.
- Area info such as hotels, parking, restaurants and Conference Schedule.
- Facebook & Twitter Sharing
- News & Updates
- Resources & Links
- in App Facebook & Twitter Pages

With MUCH more to come (AFTER THE CONFERENCE!!!!!)

Just a Thought | An OLD Emaill Review from pd

2011-07-25T12:29:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys,

I just got a note from Yireh reminding me of one of the old emails I sent out a year ago. It is really pretty good and encouraged me today, which is funny since often I don’t reread my own stuff. However, I wanted to forward the chain back to all of us and say that this is a great reread! ;)

Have a great week!

Dustin Hedrick

Lead Pastor

NOTE FROM YIREH:

Hey PD,

Re-reading some of the old stuff and just wanted to encourage you today how much it continues to speak to me. Keep at it pastor, the sheep are growing!

Lots of love,

YRM

PD’s OLD EMAIL:

Hey Guys,

I will be sending a more formal Thread email later about a topic that Devin has encouraged me to review. It will be about “De-Teching” & being a physical minimalist in order to be a spiritual giant.

But, before I send that, I came across this message by Henry Blackaby and wanted to send it today. I wanted to remind us to every time we read Scripture, stop and ask Poppa to speak to us. Every time we hear a sermon, ask Poppa to speak to us personally about it. And I mean, literally stopping before we listen, read or whatever and say, “Poppa, please speak to me and apply this to my life…”

And then just during the listening or reading, literally focusing in and asking yourself over and over during the exercise, “How does this apply to me?”

If we do that and then journal our results, I think we would be amazed to see what Poppa speaks. We can even do this with news, current events and/or experiences in our day to day lives. For instance, “Jesus, what are you doing in Haiti right now and how can I help You?”

You get it? I mean, you may not always find relevance, but at least you can keep the conversation with God the Father, Jesus and Spirit open and available. It may help you even make better sense out of the challenges and trials in life. And you know, I have found it is fun to connect the dots. It’s like life is a huge puzzle and I am always trying to put the pieces together. I mean, the truth is that EVERYTHING has a purpose. I just have to see what that purpose is and maximize the potential.

Hope that makes sense…

Blessings!

The Penetrating Word of God

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb 4:12)

Does God’s word ever cause you discomfort? When you read the Bible does what you read make you uneasy? Do you find when you listen to sermons, that the Scripture seems aimed directly at you? You are experiencing the reality that the word of God is alive and can read your thoughts and judge your intentions.

When God’s word speaks to you it is always for a purpose. God knows your heart and knows what you need to do to bring your life into conformity to Christ. If you have a problem with sinful talk, the word that comes to you will address the tongue. If you are struggling to forgive, God’s word will confront you with His standard for forgiveness. If pride has a stronghold in your life, God’s word will speak to you about humility. Whatever sin needs addressing, you will find you are confronted by God’s word on the matter.

One way you can escape the discomfort of conviction is to avoid hearing God speak to you. You may neglect reading your Bible and stay away from places where it is taught. You may avoid those whom you know will uphold the truths of Scripture. The best response, however, is to pray as the psalmist did: “Search me, O God, and know my heart” (Ps. 139:23). Regularly allow the word of God to wash over you and find any sin or impurity (Eph. 5:26). Always make the connection between your life and what God is saying to you through His word. Make a habit of taking every word from God seriously, knowing that it is able to judge your heart and mind.

H Blackaby

The Spiritually Vigorous Saint | Oswald Chambers

2011-07-13T11:53:00.000-04:00

. . . that I may know Him . . . -Philippians 3:10

A saint is not to take the initiative toward self-realization, but toward knowing Jesus Christ. A spiritually vigorous saint never believes that his circumstances simply happen at random, nor does he ever think of his life as being divided into the secular and the sacred. He sees every situation in which he finds himself as the means of obtaining a greater knowledge of Jesus Christ, and he has an attitude of unrestrained abandon and total surrender about him. The Holy Spirit is determined that we will have the realization of Jesus Christ in every area of our lives, and He will bring us back to the same point over and over again until we do. Self-realization only leads to the glorification of good works, whereas a saint of God glorifies Jesus Christ through his good works. Whatever we may be doing- even eating, drinking, or washing disciples' feet- we have to take the initiative of realizing and recognizing Jesus Christ in it. Every phase of our life has its counterpart in the life of Jesus. Our Lord realized His relationship to the Father even in the most menial task. "Jesus, knowing . . . that He had come from God and was going to God, . . . took a towel . . . and began to wash the disciples' feet . . ." (John 13:3-5).

The aim of a spiritually vigorous saint is "that I may know Him . . ." Do I know Him where I am today? If not, I am failing Him. I am not here for self-realization, but to know Jesus Christ. In Christian work our initiative and motivation are too often simply the result of realizing that there is work to be done and that we must do it. Yet that is never the attitude of a spiritually vigorous saint. His aim is to achieve the realization of Jesus Christ in every set of circumstances.

Drawing on the Grace of GOD -NOW | Oswald Chambers

2011-06-27T16:50:00.000-04:00

We . . . plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain -2 Corinthians 6:1

The grace you had yesterday will not be sufficient for today. Grace is the overflowing favor of God, and you can always count on it being available to draw upon as needed. ". . . in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses"- that is where our patience is tested (2 Corinthians 6:4). Are you failing to rely on the grace of God there? Are you saying to yourself, "Oh well, I won't count this time"? It is not a question of praying and asking God to help you- it is taking the grace of God now. We tend to make prayer the preparation for our service, yet it is never that in the Bible. Prayer is the practice of drawing on the grace of God. Don't say, "I will endure this until I can get away and pray." Pray now - draw on the grace of God in your moment of need. Prayer is the most normal and useful thing; it is not simply a reflex action of your devotion to God. We are very slow to learn to draw on God's grace through prayer.

". . . in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors . . ." (2 Corinthians 6:5)- in all these things, display in your life a drawing on the grace of God, which will show evidence to yourself and to others that you are a miracle of His. Draw on His grace now, not later. The primary word in the spiritual vocabulary is now. Let circumstances take you where they will, but keep drawing on the grace of God in whatever condition you may find yourself. One of the greatest proofs that you are drawing on the grace of God is that you can be totally humiliated before others without displaying even the slightest trace of anything but His grace.

". . . having nothing . . . ." Never hold anything in reserve. Pour yourself out, giving the best that you have, and always be poor. Never be diplomatic and careful with the treasure God gives you. ". . . and yet possessing all things"- this is poverty triumphant (2 Corinthians 6:10).

Empowered Evangelism Conference with Robby Dawkins

2011-06-23T17:16:00.000-04:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!

Empowered Evangelism Conference with Robby Dawkins AUGUST 12-14 The Tapestry Church www.tapestrychurch.com

That's right. He is coming to the Tapestry and will be doing a conference with us the weekend of August 12-14, 2011. We still have not finally selected the location, however, things are heating up and people are contacting from outside the church and area that are interested in coming and asking about details. So, if you are planning on coming, you need to RSVP ASAP. Email Lori at lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org. We are now expecting possibly 200 people or more, so knowing if you are going to be a part is IMPORTANT since we need to arrange for space. It will start Friday night at 7pm and will be all day Saturday with Robby being at the Tapestry Sunday morning.

We will have MUCH more on the Tapestry website within the week.

For more information on Robby, go to his website or the website for the move, "Furious Love" below.
http://furiouslovefilm.com/
http://robbydawkins.com
http://www.vineyardfoxvalley.org/

The Furious Love Film on partial on YouTube is Here:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyfH3T8HXZg
www.youtube.com/watch?v=auTPJhL0y4o
http://www.facebook.com/furiouslovefilm

Born to missionary parents in Japan, Robby had an early start in ministry. In his father's church he began a children's ministry at the age of 12, and became the youth minister at 16 years old. Robby says, "I knew from a young age that God had called me into ministry. My parents say that from the age of 2, I told people that I would grow up and be a missionary." In many ways that has been the case in Robby's life.

Robby and his wife, Angie, married in 1992, have pastored the Vineyard Church of Aurora, IL since 1996. They feel God called them to plant in a poor urban community, and continually use "power evangelism" to gather for the church. They estimate that over 50% of current attenders have come to Christ at the Vineyard Aurora, and that almost ¾ of those have come through "power" encounters.

"In addition to starting and pastoring this church, God has called me for the purpose of building up and equipping the local church with power tools for harvesting," Robby shares. These "power tools" are prophetic ministry, healing, ministry of the presence of God, and deliverance from demonic power. Robby loves to tell literally hundreds of stories of his personal experiences, which include God using him and others he has mentored through the years to see God's Kingdom "break in" with signs and wonders.

Having been in over 30 countries around the world, God has used him to help build the church internationally as well. He has ministered in many Muslim countries and in 2 of the top 10 most dangerous countries according to Voice of the Martyrs magazine.

Life is But the Weaving | the Tapestry Poem | Corrie Tem Boom

2011-06-13T11:13:00.001-04:00

Life is But a Weaving
Corrie Ten Boom (The Tapestry Poem)

My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He weaveth steadily.
Oft' times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.
Not 'til the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas
And reveal the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the weaver's skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned
He knows, He loves, He cares;
Nothing this truth can dim.
He gives the very best to those
Who leave the choice to Him.

(Corrie Ten Boom often used this poem as she described a Tapestry that hangs currently at the museum. I challenge you to read, "The Hiding Place).

The Hidden Power of ABIDE | Oswald Chambers

2011-06-09T09:44:00.000-04:00

Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do . . . -John 14:13

Am I fulfilling this ministry of intercession deep within the hidden recesses of my life? There is no trap nor any danger at all of being deceived or of showing pride in true intercession. It is a hidden ministry that brings forth fruit through which the Father is glorified. Am I allowing my spiritual life to waste away, or am I focused, bringing everything to one central point- the atonement of my Lord? Is Jesus Christ more and more dominating every interest of my life? If the central point, or the most powerful influence, of my life is the atonement of the Lord, then every aspect of my life will bear fruit for Him.

However, I must take the time to realize what this central point of power is. Am I willing to give one minute out of every hour to concentrate on it? "If you abide in Me . . . "- that is, if you continue to act, and think, and work from that central point- "you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you" (John 15:7). Am I abiding? Am I taking the time to abide? What is the greatest source of power in my life? Is it my work, service, and sacrifice for others, or is it my striving to work for God? It should be none of these- what ought to exert the greatest power in my life is the atonement of the Lord. It is not on what we spend the greatest amount of time that molds us the most, but whatever exerts the most power over us. We must make a determination to limit and concentrate our desires and interests on the atonement by the Cross of Christ.

"Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do . . . ." The disciple who abides in Jesus is the will of God, and what appears to be his free choices are actually God's foreordained decrees. Is this mysterious? Does it appear to contradict sound logic or seem totally absurd? Yes, but what a glorious truth it is to a saint of God.

A Word from the weekend | PD's afterthoughts...

2011-06-06T11:41:00.001-04:00

Hey Guys,

What an Amazing weekend we just had!!!!!

I just want to brag on a few things and people because I really needed that and it truly feels like we turned a corner and we are beginning to kick it up a notch. LOVE THAT! You can email me with more shout outs as you have them as well.

1 - Worship guys, way to go!!!! The worship was amazing and really set the stage for the next part. That felt professional! I love the CD whether anyone else does or not. I have already heard that people are LOVING HAVING your music! It is just the first phase. I already have someone that will remaster our disk if we will lay down the tracks officially. So, now that you have a disk, let's learn the music and get it done RIGHT. The best songs we have are by far Jon's. We also have an opportunity to send EVERYTHING to iHOP and they will play it during the night watch prayer meetings which will introduce it to the larger church and that movement. Jesus Culture, here we come!

2 - Way to go Lori with the kids ministry firing on all cylinders. That was awesome to see. The easels were AMAZING! So many people LOVED your graphics work. I guess now you are the official Tapestry lettering artist! And thank you so much for really leading the welcome bag rollout and getting the copies and everything done. WE WOULD HAVE NEVER PULLED IT OFF WITHOUT YOU!

3 - ASHLEY!!!! The banned was totally beautiful and was MORE THAN I COULD HAVE EXPECTED! I am so proud of that work of art. I am thankful to have something so AWESOME to hang at the church and the handiwork that Christa put into it is going to be a lasting contribution to the legacy of the Tapestry! WOW! I cannot believe that Ashley, you put over a year in this effort. WAY TO GO! WHAT A GREAT LEAD!

4 - The welcoming was great on Sunday. You guys got chairs out, made people at home, welcomed, hugged, hand shaked, and connected people EVERYWHERE! That was the most connected I have seen the Tapestry EVER! WOW!

5 - Tapestry old-timers, thank you for being around for me to brag on and talk about. You guys endure a lot. Next year I would love to have a few of you share your personal stories about coming to the Tapestry as a part of the service. That would be really fun.

6 - Setup crew! WAY TO GO! You guys worked hard, got there early, set everything up and out, made it look great and tore down and got us out the picnic. WOW!

7 - COOKOUT folks! AWESOME! DID YOU SEE THAT CROWD?????? And how many people were helping cook this year? So many!!! PATRICK, you had some help!!!! YAY! The location was perfect, Su. And the way everyone signed up, brought food, fellowshiped and connected did my heart GOOD! SO COOL!

8 - Jose, GREAT choice in speaker. Didn't David do such a great job guys? That was not only the word for the day and the word for the graduates, but the word for the church and will be our newest T-shirt! AWESOME!

9 - Graduates, you guys made the day! All I have to say...

And with that said, I am going to leave you to ponder your own awesomeness and the awesomeness of the GOD that has brought you together over these 7 years.

Way to go Tapestry... Way to go!

Dustin Hedrick
Senior Pastor

Great Web Links for Resources on our site!

2011-05-24T17:19:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys,

Just as a side note, you should check out the church's website for awesome links to resources and tons of things to help. We have links to ministries, conferences, resources for ministries and much more on the church's web resource link list here:

http://bit.ly/mi5QMa

Blessings!
pd

Dustin Hedrick

Why We Are All About the Numbers

2011-05-12T16:32:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,

This is a time where I am stirred up and as I write this quick snippet, I have to say that the more time I spend with other believers that are ON FIRE and the more time I spend reading the WORD, worshiping and praying in my newly finished prayer closet, I HAVE TO SAY I AM ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS AGAIN!

Now hear me, the article you are going to read is NOT my words, it the pastor at "Elevation Church." But, I have to agree with him. I mean, I hear already those of you stirred up at the thought of trying to fill seats and trying to raise money. THAT IS NOT WHAT I AM SAYING!

Read on to get the drift of this new drive of young leaders to REACH the communities around us. And yes, I AM ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS!

pd
_______________

Our church is all about the numbers.

The number of lives that Jesus can permeate and penetrate with the gospel.
The number of marriages that can be restored.
The number of teenagers following the Lord.
The number of depressed people that can find hope in Jesus.
The number of dads who don't give their kids any attention who will learn to order their lives by the Word of God and start prioritizing their families.

(Read more here: http://bit.ly/m97mB7 )

Prophetic Vision | Oswald Chambers

2011-05-09T14:41:00.001-04:00

Where there is no revelation [or prophetic vision], the people cast off restraint . . . -Proverbs 29:18

There is a difference between holding on to a principle and having a vision. A principle does not come from moral inspiration, but a vision does. People who are totally consumed with idealistic principles rarely do anything. A person's own idea of God and His attributes may actually be used to justify and rationalize his deliberate neglect of his duty. Jonah tried to excuse his disobedience by saying to God, ". . . I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness, One who relents from doing harm" (Jonah 4:2). I too may have the right idea of God and His attributes, but that may be the very reason why I do not do my duty.

But wherever there is vision, there is also a life of honesty and integrity, because the vision gives me the moral incentive.

Our own idealistic principles may actually lull us into ruin. Examine yourself spiritually to see if you have vision, or only principles.
Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, Or what's a heaven for?

"Where there is no revelation [or prophetic vision]. . . ." Once we lose sight of God, we begin to be reckless. We cast off certain restraints from activities we know are wrong. We set prayer aside as well and cease having God's vision in the little things of life. We simply begin to act on our own initiative. If we are eating only out of our own hand, and doing things solely on our own initiative without expecting God to come in, we are on a downward path. We have lost the vision. Is our attitude today an attitude that flows from our vision of God? Are we expecting God to do greater things than He has ever done before? Is there a freshness and a vitality in our spiritual outlook?

What You Will Get | Oswald Chambers

2011-04-29T17:51:00.001-04:00

I will give your life to you as a prize in all places, wherever you go -Jeremiah 45:5

This is the firm and immovable secret of the Lord to those who trust Him- "I will give your life to you . . . ." What more does a man want than his life? It is the essential thing. ". . . your life . . . as a prize . . ." means that wherever you may go, even if it is into hell, you will come out with your life and nothing can harm it. So many of us are caught up in exhibiting things for others to see, not showing off property and possessions, but our blessings. All these things that we so proudly show have to go. But there is something greater that can never go- the life that "is hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3).

Are you prepared to let God take you into total oneness with Himself, paying no more attention to what you call the great things of life? Are you prepared to surrender totally and let go? The true test of abandonment or surrender is in refusing to say, "Well, what about this?" Beware of your own ideas and speculations. The moment you allow yourself to think, "What about this?" you show that you have not surrendered and that you do not really trust God. But once you do surrender, you will no longer think about what God is going to do. Abandonment means to refuse yourself the luxury of asking any questions. If you totally abandon yourself to God, He immediately says to you, "I will give your life to you as a prize . . . ." The reason people are tired of life is that God has not given them anything- they have not been given their life "as a prize." The way to get out of that condition is to abandon yourself to God. And once you do get to the point of total surrender to Him, you will be the most surprised and delighted person on earth. God will have you absolutely, without any limitations, and He will have given you your life. If you are not there, it is either because of disobedience in your life or your refusal to be simple enough.

Vineyard Japan Relief Effort - Letter

2011-04-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Click to view this email in a browser http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/546358/6e36fc1114/1576502097/3e7c4eedaa/

April 18th, 2010

Japan Relief Effort

A Letter From the Japan/Korea Partnership

Dear Vineyard family:

Today marks the one month anniversary of the earthquake/tsunami in Japan's Tohoku region. While the disaster receives diminishing US news coverage in the face of more recent local and international crises, the news coming from Japan suggests, if anything, a deepening awareness of the scope of the disaster.

A number of you have contacted Vineyard Mercy Response, Vineyard missions or us directly asking about Vineyard-based avenues of response to the situation in Japan. Over the past few weeks we have been exploring how we might support a Vineyard-based response; we've been in conversation with the Vineyard Missions, Mercy Response and National offices, and just returned from a one-week trip to meet with our Vineyard pastors in Japan, talk with directors of a local Christian relief agency, and visit the disaster area.

The Vineyards in Japan are taking initial steps to partner together with one another, and with other Christian churches and agencies, in early-stage response. Gail and I were able to get a glimpse of this on a 36-hour trip to the coastal town of Iwaki, where a local nondenominational church is serving as a hub for church-based relief efforts. We helped clean out tsunami-ravaged homes and serve refugees at local relocation centers, and found ourselves working together with Christians from around Japan as well as around the globe.

A bit of what we saw and heard: a young woman from Osaka cheerfully advocates for outreach even within the exclusion zone around the Fukushima reactors, joking that we've already died in Christ anyways; Pastor Kaz Ito tells of watching a young Korean man washing the feet of an obaasan (Japanese grandmother) at a refugee center, and how she begins to weep as she lets flow the grief of losing her husband – along with 2/3 of her village; we sort and clear what remains of the first floor of an older couple's home (photo, below), and see the wife break into tears as she thanks us at day's end; I glimpse one young westerner, knee-deep in debris, wearing a T-shirt that reads, "I ♥ Fukushima"; and, Gail overhears one neighbor ask another—next door to where we were working—"Who are these people?", and hears the other reply, "They are Christians."

The main thing that Gail and I kept hearing on our trip – most often from Japanese Christians – was, "What Japan needs right now, more than anything else, is hope." We are frequently reminded that this may be the most important window for the gospel in Japan since 1945, and we do believe that a movement committed to building communities of hope, to reaching the unreached, and to compassionate, Spirit-graced ministry has much to offer Japan at this time. So we want to offer our missions partnership as a means of assisting the wider Vineyard community to help support, and to serve alongside, our brothers and sisters in Japan. If you would like to explore working together in a Vineyard-based response, please contact us via the information provided below. Please note, also, that at least one Vineyard pastor from Japan will be at the national conference in Phoenix next month – stop by the Vineyard Missions display table to visit in person!

For such a time as this,

Karl & Gail Neils (on L of photo)
Pastors, Seattle Vineyard
Japan/Korea Missions P'Ship Leaders
www.seattlevineyard.org
karl@seattlevineyard.org

Not Just News | 2011-4-29

2011-04-28T23:01:00.000-04:00

Special Giving Opportunity
An urgent call for help from The Barn: Gary and Sarah Peterson, a family with 6 small children, recently lost everything in a house fire. Please help this family and leave a donation in the offering bucket made out to Tapestry Church with "Peterson Family" in the memo line or cash in an envelope marked the same. Let's be the church and help this family in need.

Prayer and counseling ministry
If you need special prayer or ministry and you can't be at church on Sunday to have our prayer team pray for you on the spot, you can email letuspray@tapestrychurch.org.
If you need further counseling, deliverance or prophetic ministry, please simply let Lori know, lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org so we can schedule a time to meet with you.

Volunteers and future volunteers!
If you are interested in email distribution for the volunteer opportunities. please email lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org>. You will be added to mailing list and kept informed about the volunteering opportunities with the Tapestry Church.

Kiddos' volunteers needed
We are splitting our one kiddos class into 3! Our very patient 8 year old is tired of hanging out with the 3 year olds and our babies are starting to discover their voices! To pull this off right each Sunday we need 2 people to help with the babies. 2 people to help with our 2-5 year olds and 1 person to help with the 6-10 year olds. Please see the sign up sheet in the hall and/or email lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org>

COMING SOON!!!

Tapestry 101 - 401 - New Members Courses
Are you wanting to know what the Tapestry is all about and do you want to stop feeling like such a NEW-comer???? Well, come on and sign up for the Tapestry's NEW MEMBERS' courses. The first course is going to start this Spring and we want you to be a part. Even if you are an OLD-Timer and you really want to learn the heartbeat of the Tapestry and find your fit, sign up now!!!!! Our courses are called Tapestry 101-401 and we will be starting them SOON! Sign up today by emailing Lori @ lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org>. PD will love to have you! (They will likely be on Sunday Afternoons with lunch included!)

Building the Greeting, Welcoming and Follow up ministry.
Are you interested in making people smile? Do you like giving things away? Do you enjoy praying for people when they don't even know it? And do you love our church and want to increase the atmosphere? Well then, you are EXACTLY who we want to talk to for welcome/greeting ministry training. And yes, it is an EASY MINISTRY!!!!! If you love the heartbeat of Starbucks' atmosphere and experience, then you are the right person for this ministry. Sign up by emailing Lori @ lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org> and PD will be leading a training later this Spring 2011. Even if you are not interested in greeting at the church and simply want to work on some spiritual and interpersonal skills with relating to people, you should sign up for the training. You do NOT have to serve. We just want to learn. This is FOR YOU!

Personal Finance Seminar
Having trouble with that budget? Can you never keep money in your savings? Are you feeling a little under water when it comes to your debt situation? Would you like to be a bigger giver and a better steward of your finances? Would you like to learn how to save, budget and invest wisely in line with GOD's standards? Then, sign up now. We are developing a seminar for YOU! This one day seminar is focused on helping people find financial freedom in a Biblical way AND become blessed so they can BLESS! Email Lori @ lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:lorihedrick@tapestrychurch.org> to sign up! PD will fill you in later on details.

Events:
New Comers Lunch
New to the Tapestry?
Old to the Tapestry but never heard the story?
Sunday May 1st
1:45 at PD's house.

Ladies pot luck at Lor's
Wednesday, May 4th, 7pm
PD is away, the Ladies will play
Please bring a yummy snack.
Look for Event on Tapestry's Facebook Soon

Worship School with Chris Dupre
May 9-13 ,2011
First 1 week worship school at Catch the Fire Toronto.
For more info contact David Huang
davohuang@gmail.com<mailto:davohuang@gmail.com>

Spiritual Retreat
May 13-15, 2011
Tapestry invites you to a church wide spiritual retreat to West Chester KOA about 2 hours from Kensington! Worship, Prayer, fellowship and family fun in the middle of God's Creation! Cost is $40.00 per adult if you plan to camp out ($30.00 for children under 17) or $65.00 if you want a Cabin. Cabins are limited so sign up soon. Children under 12 are free! Cost covers two nights, three days and includes all food and retreat activities. Please note that people are responsible for their own tents. Contact Seiji or Joan to sign up or for more information.

Wanna Play?
Sunday, May 22nd
Games and Pizza directly after service
Pizza and Soda provided!
Do you have the guts to play?

South Dakota Mission Trip: HELP!
The good news is that the Yamashita's are expecting their first baby! The bad news is that they will not be able to lead the missions trip to Pine Ridge Indian reservation in South Dakota this year. If you have a heart for children and ministering to them, and would like to be part of a team or lead a team to Pine Ridge, please contact Joan joanyamashita@tapestrychurch.org<mailto:joanyamashita@tapestrychurch.org>

Upcoming Vineyard Conferences in 2011

Project Timothy 2011
Aug 6 - Aug 13
The Barn, Landenberg, PA

A Blog Post from Passion City Church in Atlanta

2011-04-25T16:41:00.000-04:00

The Passion City Church is really happening. There is a neat blog post with pictures from their recent event at this link. See it here.

http://www.passioncitychurch.com/blog/?p=803

I just thought it was nice to see the movement that is stirring from this church in Atlanta. Louie Giglio has been one of my long-time favorites in ministry and this is from the Good Friday event.

Check it out…

v3w | Verse, Word & Worship for your Week | 2011-4-7

2011-04-07T16:39:00.001-04:00

Verse of the Week
(This is a verse we can think about all week long. Let it be something that you use as a focal point throughout your week. Maybe post it somewhere where you see it daily).

Ruth 1:13

"...for it grieves me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me."

Worship for your Week
(This is a short list of a few songs that will hopefully help you as you have your own personal worship time no matter where you are. Even though it is Youtube, you can stream it in your car or while you travel and just listen).

I Will Follow | Chris Tomlin | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zx_04LdPV_Q&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Our GOD is Greater | Chris Tomlin | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlA5IDnpGhc&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Calling for a Flood | John Waller | http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKkTeKbh3Ys&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Thought of the Week
(One of my positive thoughts for the week. My hope is to always lift, equip, inspire and encourage!)

TOPIC TITLE | Is It GOD Against Us or GOD's Positioning Movement? That's the Question...

This verse screams at me today. I have had the most interesting week and I have had so many obstacles to deal with that in my immediate reaction to them, I have thought to myself, "Why is GOD against me?????"

Now, at face value, we have probably all felt this way and to some degree, we have been a little miffed at GOD. Yet, what if the verse in Hebrews is right (Hebrews 12) and GOD does chasten those whom HE loves. What if this chastening is not just punishment as I perceive it, but HIM positioning us to be better able to receive what HE has in store for us. What if HIS positioning has more to do with HIS larger plan than just our immediate experience? What if we lived with the bigger picture instead of just the immediate need firmly in front of our eyes.

Naomi could not see the larger plan. As a matter of fact, if you look at the return in life for her immediate issue, it would seem that her life in essence was a waste. I mean, her DNA did not go any further. Her lineage stopped at the death of her sons. Her name ended. Her inheritance ended... It just seemed that she may have been a hiccup in GOD's plans.

Yet, the real question is... Where would Ruth have been without Naomi?
1 - Would she have gone back to her idols and left Naomi's GOD?
2 - Would she have ever learned the lifestyle and culture of the Jews?
3 - Would she have struggled and become a success working in the fields of Boaz?
4 - Would she have married or even met Boaz?
5 - Would Boaz have had a son named Obed?
6 - Would Obed have had a son named Jesse?
8 -Would David have been born? The King with the never ending lineage?
9 - And what of Jesus? No Ruth... No Mary & Joseph...
10 - Did this story that was told through the years affect each generation that heard it when they thought about GOD and in how they approached HIM? GOD brought beauty from "Great Great Grandma Ruth's Adopted Momma Naomi..."

The DNA may have died, BUT BOY DID THE STORY LIVE ON! Naomi could not see that without her husband and sons dying, she would have never led Ruth back to her homeland where she would meet destiny! Naomi, her husband and sons, stand in front of GOD, thanked for their part they played in redemptions story!!!!! And yet, their young deaths were perceived as GOD's hand against the family. Instead... GOD WAS FOR THIS FAMILY! It was all in the perspective!

Wow!
What about that?

Could it be that our struggles placed in full view of heaven are not at all dismal nor ugly to GOD, but these present discomforts are much more about creating a woven picture or a piece of art that united and completed, there might be something altogether redemptive? Could it be that chastening at the moment should be cherished because we can trust that our Beloved Heavenly Poppa has a plan we cannot see at the moment? And that chastening is not always because we did something wrong, but it ALWAYS CAN BE TRUSTED that it is for our best? Could it be that just because it looks bad right now, we should not fear. There is a larger story that will be told in the end?

Could it be?

Now...
Do you feel like you've lost it all and all there is left is to die? Don't give up. Look around you. Maybe there is a Ruth GOD has called you to invest in right now. In the middle of your trial, take them to your people and your faith. Show them the way to GOD. Be the bridge to their destiny.

I have always found that giving my life, time, resources and even my heart to invest in developing someone else through relationship always helps me see GOD's plan better even while still in discomfort.

It's just a thought...
Blessings!
pd

Articles to Read | Emails from DK

2011-04-07T15:48:00.000-04:00

A couple notes and articles from Daeho this week:

Hope that we can pray for more church leaders and pastor/ priest to cover our community...

Dying? Plan ahead: Priests scarce for last rites

http://usat.me?45795054

Just thought it was interesting...

U.K. astrophysicist wins $1.6 million religion prize

http://usat.me?45826592

Good to Great | Jim Collins' Book | Chapter Summaries from Wiki Summaries

2011-03-22T15:02:00.000-04:00

I have attached the summaries from Wiki Summaries for your info. For the full article, please go here: http://www.wikisummaries.org/Good_to_Great:_Why_Some_Companies_Make_the_Leap..._and_Others_Don't

The reason I have these summaries here is that for all intents and purposes even though some of the companies that are listed here have their issues, the truth is that they largely have proven the theory true even if today they do not exist as totally great companies. In my mind that gives even more credence to the need for the thinking behind the book "Built to Last."

So, with that said, read these summaries, be stirred and do NOT be surprised as we confront brutal realities around us, review the metrics and the results of all we do and with great courage di into ways to approach everything we do with greatness.

For the Tapestry guys out there, if you have not gotten the book yet, I have a copy and can make sure you can get the CD's if you wish to listen to it. Just let me know and you can borrow mine!

Alright, hope this inspires!
dh

Excerpt from Wiki Summaries Below:

Chapter 1: Good is the Enemy of Great
The first chapter of the book lays out the criteria that Collins and his research team used in selecting the companies that served as the basis of the meta-analysis that provided the findings set forth in the book. The most important factor in the selection process was a period of growth and sustained success that far outpaced the market or industry average. Based on the stated criteria, the companies that were selected for inclusion were Abbott, Fannie Mae, Circuit City, Gillette, Kimberly-Clark, Kroger, Nucor, Philip Morris, Pitney Bowes,Walgreens, and Wells Fargo.
Collins also offers a few of the most significant findings gleaned from the study. Of particular note are the many indications that factors such as CEO compensation, technology, mergers and acquisitions, and change management initiatives played relatively minor roles in fostering the Good to Great process. Instead, Collins found that successes in three main areas, which he terms disciplined people, disciplined thought, and disciplined action, were likely the most significant factors in determining a company's ability to achieve greatness.

Chapter 2: Level 5 Leadership
In this chapter, Collins begins the process of identifying and further explicating the unique factors and variables that differentiate good and great companies. One of the most significant differences, he asserts, is the quality and nature of leadership in the firm. Collins goes on to identify "Level 5 leadership" as a common characteristic of the great companies assessed in the study. This type of leadership forms the top level of a 5-level hierarchy that ranges from merely competent supervision to strategic executive decision-making.
By further studying the behaviors and attitudes of so-called Level 5 leaders, Collins found that many of those classified in this group displayed an unusual mix of intense determination and profound humility. These leaders often have a long-term personal sense of investment in the company and its success, often cultivated through a career-spanning climb up the company's ranks. The personal ego and individual financial gain are not as important as the long-term benefit of the team and the company to true Level 5 leaders. As such, Collins asserts that the much-touted trend of bringing in a celebrity CEO to turn around a flailing firm is usually not conducive to fostering the transition from Good to Great.

Chapter 3: First Who, Then What
The next factor that Collins identifies as part of the Good to Great process is the nature of the leadership team. Specifically, Collins advances the concept that the process of securing high-quality, high-talent individuals with Level 5 leadership abilities must be undertaken before an overarching strategy can be developed. With the right people in the right positions, Collins contends that many of the management problems that plague companies and sap valuable resources will automatically dissipate. As such, he argues, firms seeking to make the Good to Great transition may find it worthwhile to expend extra energy and time on personnel searches and decision-making.
Collins also underscores the importance of maintaining rigorousness in all personnel decisions. He recommends moving potentially failing employees and managers to new positions, but not hesitating to remove personnel who are not actively contributing. He also recommends that hiring should be delayed until an absolutely suitable candidate has been identified. Hewing to both of these guidelines, Collins claims, will likely save time, effort, and resources in the long-term.

Chapter 4: Confront the Brutal Facts (Yet Never Lose Faith)
Another key element of some companies' unique ability to make the transition from Good to Great is the willingness to identify and assess defining facts in the company and in the larger business environment. In today's market, trends in consumer preferences are constantly changing, and the inability to keep apace with these changes often results in company failure. Using the example of an extended comparative analysis of Kroger and A & P, Collins observes that Kroger recognized the trend towards modernization in the grocery industry and adjusted its business model accordingly, although doing so required a complete transformation of the company and its stores. A & P, on the other hand, resisted large-scale change, and thus guaranteed its own demise.
Collins outlines a four-step process to promote awareness of emerging trends and potential problems: 1) Lead with questions, not answers; 2) Engage in dialogue and debate, not coercion; 3) Conduct autopsies without blame; and 4) Build red flag mechanisms that turn information into information that cannot be ignored.

Chapter 5: The Hedgehog Concept (Simplicity Within the Three Circles)
In this chapter, Collins uses the metaphor of the hedgehog to illustrate the seemingly contradictory principle that simplicity can sometimes lead to greatness. When confronted by predators, the hedgehog's simple but surprisingly effective response is to roll up into a ball. While other predators, such as the fox, may be impressively clever, few can devise a strategy that is effective enough to overcome the hedgehog's simple, repetitive response.
Similarly, Collins asserts, the way to make the transformation from Good to Great is often not doing many things well, but instead, doing one thing better than anyone else in the world. It may take time to identify the single function that will be a particular firm's "hedgehog concept," but those who do successfully identify it are often rewarded with singular success. In order to help expedite this process, Collins suggests using the following three criteria: 1) Determine what you can be best in the world at and what you cannot be best in the world at; 2) Determine what drives your economic engine; and 3) Determine what you are deeply passionate about.

Chapter 6: A Culture of Discipline
Another defining characteristic of the companies that Collins defined as great in his study was an overarching organizational culture of discipline. He is quick to point out that a culture of discipline is not to be confused with a strict authoritarian environment; instead, Collins is referring to an organization in which each manager and staff member is driven by an unrelenting inner sense of determination. In this type of organization, each individual functions as an entrepreneur, with a deeply rooted personal investment in both their own work and the company's success.
Although this discipline will manifest itself in a high standard of quality in the work that is produced by managers and employees alike, its most significant outcome will be an almost fanatical devotion to the objectives outlined in the "hedgehog concept" exercises. Disciplined workers will be better equipped to hew to these goals with a single-minded intensity that, according to Collins, will foster the transformation from merely Good to Great. In addition, the author asserts, it is important that within this overarching culture of discipline, every team member is afforded the degree of personal empowerment and latitude that is necessary to ensure that they will be able to go to unheard-of extremes to bring the firm's envisioned objectives into existence.

Chapter 7: Technology Accelerators
Today, many businesses have come to depend upon technology to increase efficiency, reduce overhead, and maximize competitive advantage. However, Collins cautions that technology should not be regarded as a potential panacea for all that ails a company. The folly of this kind of thinking was revealed in the aftermath of the crash of the tech bubble in the early 2000s. The market correction threw into sharp relief the differences between sustainable uses of the Internet to extend established businesses and ill-planned, unviable online start-ups.
Collins contends that the good-to-great companies approach the prospect of new and emerging technologies with the same prudence and careful deliberation that characterizes all of their other business decisions. Further, these companies tend to apply technology in a manner that is reflective of their "hedgehog concepts" -- typically by selecting and focusing solely upon the development of a few technologies that are fundamentally compatible with their established strengths and objectives. Collins characterizes the ideal approach to technology with the following cycle: "Pause -- Think -- Crawl -- Walk -- Run."

Chapter 8: The Flywheel and the Doom Loop
In this chapter, Collins describes two cycles that demonstrate the way that business decisions tend to accumulate incrementally in either an advantageous or a disadvantageous manner. Both, the author emphasizes, accrue over time. Despite the popular misperception that business success or failure often occurs suddenly, Collins asserts that it more typically occurs over the course of years, and that both only transpire after sufficient positive or negative momentum has been accrued.
Collins describes the advantageous business cycle that, in some cases, can foster the transition from Good to Great as "the flywheel effect." By making decisions and taking actions that reinforce and affirm the company's "hedgehog" competencies, executives initiate positive momentum. This, in turn, results in the accumulation of tangible positive outcomes, which serve to energize and earn the investment and loyalty of the staff. This revitalization of the team serves to further build momentum. If the cycle continues to repeat in this manner, the transition from Good to Great is likely to transpire. In contrast, the doom loop is characterized by reactive decision-making, an overextension into too many diverse areas of concentration, following short-lived trends, frequent changes in leadership and personnel, loss of morale, and disappointing results.

Chapter 9: From Good to Great to Built to Last
In the concluding chapter of Good to Great, Collins makes a connection between this book and his previous work, Built to Last, which represented the findings of a six-year study into the factors that determined whether a new company would survive in the long-term. First and foremost, Collins contends that companies need a set of core values in order to achieve the kind of long-term, sustainable success that may lead to greatness. Companies need to exist for a higher purpose than mere profit generation in order to transcend the category of merely good. According to Collins, this purpose does not have to be specific -- even if the shared values that compel the company toward success are as open-ended as being the best at what they do and achieving excellence consistently, that may be sufficient as long as the team members are equally dedicated to the same set of values.
Although many of the conclusions of both of the books overlap, Collins notes that Good to Great should not be seen as the follow-up to Built to Last, which focuses on sustaining success in the long-term. Instead, Good to Great actually functions as the prequel to Built to Last. First, a company should focus on developing the foundation that is necessary to work toward greatness. Then, they can begin to apply the principles of longevity that are set forth in Built to Last.

The Secret of the Burning Heart | Oswald Chambers

2011-03-22T13:19:00.001-04:00

Did not our heart burn within us . . . ? -Luke 24:32

We need to learn this secret of the burning heart. Suddenly Jesus appears to us, fires are set ablaze, and we are given wonderful visions; but then we must learn to maintain the secret of the burning heart- a heart that can go through anything. It is the simple, dreary day, with its commonplace duties and people, that smothers the burning heart- unless we have learned the secret of abiding in Jesus.

Much of the distress we experience as Christians comes not as the result of sin, but because we are ignorant of the laws of our own nature. For instance, the only test we should use to determine whether or not to allow a particular emotion to run its course in our lives is to examine what the final outcome of that emotion will be. Think it through to its logical conclusion, and if the outcome is something that God would condemn, put a stop to it immediately. But if it is an emotion that has been kindled by the Spirit of God and you don't allow it to have its way in your life, it will cause a reaction on a lower level than God intended. That is the way unrealistic and overly emotional people are made. And the higher the emotion, the deeper the level of corruption, if it is not exercised on its intended level. If the Spirit of God has stirred you, make as many of your decisions as possible irrevocable, and let the consequences be what they will. We cannot stay forever on the "mount of transfiguration," basking in the light of our mountaintop experience (see Mark 9:1-9). But we must obey the light we received there; we must put it into action. When God gives us a vision, we must transact business with Him at that point, no matter what the cost.

We cannot kindle when we will The fire which in the heart resides, The spirit bloweth and is still, In mystery our soul abides; But tasks in hours of insight willed Can be through hours of gloom fulfilled.

God's Measure for Forgiveness | Blackaby.org

2011-03-17T09:39:00.000-04:00

God's Measure for Forgiveness

"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." Matthew 6:14-15

Perhaps you consider yourself a forgiving person, but you are now facing someone whom you cannot forgive. Whenever you struggle to forgive, you need to revisit what you were like when God first forgave you. Ephesians 2 indicates you were a "foreigner" and a "child of wrath." Yet God forgave your most grievous sin and rebellion against Him. While you were still rejecting God, Christ died for you (Rom. 5:8). This being so, how can you refuse to forgive those who sin against you? Forgiveness is not a spiritual gift, a skill, or an inherited trait. Forgiveness is a choice. Jesus looked down on those who had ruthlessly and mockingly nailed Him to a cross, yet He cried out: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). How, then, can we refuse to forgive those who have committed offenses against us?

Jesus said that the measure in which we are forgiving is the same standard God will use in forgiving us. God's ways are very different from ours. God's forgiveness is not based on standards we determine, but on the standards He established in His Word. God allows for no exceptions when it comes to forgiveness.

As we truly understand God's gracious forgiveness in our lives, we will naturally want to express this same forgiveness to others (Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:13). Before you ask God for His forgiveness, take a moment to examine the condition of your relationships. Would you want God to forgive you in the same way you are presently forgiving others?

Obedience to the Vision | Oswald Chambers

2011-03-11T10:59:00.000-05:00

I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision -Acts 26:19

If we lose "the heavenly vision" God has given us, we alone are responsible- not God. We lose the vision because of our own lack of spiritual growth. If we do not apply our beliefs about God to the issues of everyday life, the vision God has given us will never be fulfilled. The only way to be obedient to "the heavenly vision" is to give our utmost for His highest- our best for His glory. This can be accomplished only when we make a determination to continually remember God's vision. But the acid test is obedience to the vision in the details of our everyday life- sixty seconds out of every minute, and sixty minutes out of every hour, not just during times of personal prayer or public meetings.

"Though it tarries, wait for it . . ." (Habakkuk 2:3). We cannot bring the vision to fulfillment through our own efforts, but must live under its inspiration until it fulfills itself. We try to be so practical that we forget the vision. At the very beginning we saw the vision but did not wait for it. We rushed off to do our practical work, and once the vision was fulfilled we could no longer even see it. Waiting for a vision that "tarries" is the true test of our faithfulness to God. It is at the risk of our own soul's welfare that we get caught up in practical busy-work, only to miss the fulfillment of the vision.

Watch for the storms of God. The only way God plants His saints is through the whirlwind of His storms. Will you be proven to be an empty pod with no seed inside? That will depend on whether or not you are actually living in the light of the vision you have seen. Let God send you out through His storm, and don't go until He does. If you select your own spot to be planted, you will prove yourself to be an unproductive, empty pod. However, if you allow God to plant you, you will "bear much fruit" (John 15:8).

It is essential that we live and "walk in the light" of God's vision for us (1 John 1:7).

Brown Widow makes its home on Gulf Coast - Yahoo! News

2006-10-04T12:09:00.000-04:00

Brown Widow makes its home on Gulf Coast - Yahoo! News

This is interesting! I have never seen a new species of insect APPEAR during my lifetime. This seems to be a new insect that has arisen from a mutation in the black widow spider. The Brown Widow!

This is probably only interesting to me because I grew up on a farm and have caught 5 black widow spiders and one brown recluse in my life!

Anyways, thought you guys would think this was neat!

Blessings!

pd

Very Cool!

2006-08-31T09:55:00.000-04:00

Someone I know has the opportunity to be on a TV show like this. It’s so inspiring. Everyone, please help her do it! You can go online and vote for her now. Here’s the information. (I am cutting and pasting this from one of my emails.

Hey Guys,

Below is a link and the attached email I received. One of our clients’ daughters has the chance to be on a TV show if we vote her on. She’s not winning yet, so, let’s all vote for her and see what happens!

Her name is Maureen. So PICK MAUREEN!

Thanks,
Blessings!

Pd
Make Your Favorite DJ a STAR!
Click Here to Vote for Maureen Online to be on a TV show on FOX DC

See more progress on: Be an extra in a movie or TV show

I Did it!

2006-08-28T16:52:00.000-04:00

It’s called the Thread. As a matter of fact, you can sign up for it at: www.the-thread.com and I sent it off. It is attracting people from all over the world to my website: www.tapestrychurch.net. I am so happy!! I was up till the wee hours of the morning doing it and I did it through a group called: Constant Contact. I highly recommend them.

God is good!

I love 43things.com. I would never have gotten this done without the small bit of organization that this site has brought to my life.

See more progress on: Do an Email Newsletter

The Technorati Takeover! Hooray!

2006-08-24T23:18:00.000-04:00

Technorati Profile

Moose!

2006-08-23T16:08:00.000-04:00

He’s the greatest Jack Russell in the world and I am telling you, if you can ever get one trained, they can be the smartest, most loving and loyal dogs you will ever have. However, don’t underestimate their three-year-old-like brains, these little guys are VERY mischievious if not treated with enough love and attention.

Moose sits at my feet while I write music and play guitar!

See more progress on: get a dog

UNC, the Greatest School in the Universe!

2006-08-23T15:59:00.000-04:00

And it’s not simply becuase I personally love it, it’s the people, the atmosphere, the campus, the professors, the friends, the campus groups, the life, the seasons, the state it’s in, the level of education, the activities, the basketball team, the women’s soccer team, the value, and much more!

As you can see, I love my old school!

See more progress on: go to UNC @ Chapel Hill

Cruising!

2006-08-23T15:13:00.000-04:00

I went on a cruise in 2000 on my honeymoon to the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean and it was absolutely wonderful! I will have to post pictures later. We went to: Curacao, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Aruba, Cozumel and had a blast.

As a matter of fact, we are about to take another one in September! I highly recommend it!

See more progress on: go on a cruise

The Thread Newsletter

2006-05-07T15:11:00.000-04:00

You can get more like this delivered in your inbox if you sign up for the Thread email newsletter below:

Who can we turn to for help?

2006-02-07T22:15:00.000-05:00

In life, there is no other choice but to run home to the Father. The Father always waits with open arms for his children who run back to him. And he protects you from every kind of danger. As long as you stay with him you can be confident that you will always win!

Live a blessed existence in truth and self improvement:

When the Holy Spirit comes down, he will supercharge the truth within your heart. This will give you the strength to destroy the appearing demons in blinding light. You will shine brightest in the crowd for the Father to see, and he will be most pleased with you. The Father helps and blesses his good children with eternal life and perfect love.

Jesus was the only person who lived and stayed in the Father's love since birth, and led a perfect life without sin (aside from original sin; living in a fleshy body on earth). And this is the reason why Jesus was only loosely considered a person (He is both human and god; the living truth, humanity's bridge to Heaven).

The only people who deserve to have your blessings are those who live and spread truth.

Don’t try to tell people how they should live their lives because it is not up to you to decide. Even when you know what you say is truth, and the knowledge you are trying to tell them would really help their life to improve, they simply will not listen if it is not in their heart. The best way to change their heart is to practice and demonstrate the love and glory of god by showing the spirit of Jesus through your own life. To show them this is to make it a reality. Then they can see that this lifestyle really is possible and works. It is possible to exist in this chaotic world and live comfortably and secure while being a good and truthful person. Then they will see and realize on their own that your truth is blessed and the only way to live fulfilled.

- peterK

How terrible is a life of deceit, part 2

2006-01-31T22:40:00.000-05:00

The thoughts and actions of a human who lives a life if sin and deceit are all cursed. Indeed all the words that come from deceptive thoughts are intended to poison the minds of others. It not only poisons the lives of the weak minded (people not strong in faith), but it further defiles the speaker’s own heart.

It’s just a matter of time before their resources run out. Here is an illustration to explain this point:

Think of a fresh water well in the, middle of the desert, as human life. Sure the fresh water (life) from a flowing river or icy mountain top may be richer and have a higher place on earth, but the water from a well in the middle of a desert is most honored. This well is most honored because it is the most humbled/ poor/ appreciated source of fresh water. The water inside the well is the essence of all life/ Holy Spirit/ treasure in heaven. All the water inside the well once flowed with the original mighty ocean source, (god) until it became cut off/isolated and independent in the middle of the desert (earth). In the beginning, the water is the purest it will ever be (birth). Because of the purity and freshness of the water travelers around the area visit the well to drink from it and be blessed. Day by day water is taken out and some sand/ salt is “accidentally” kicked in. Unfortunately, it only takes a little bit of salt to contaminate the rest of the water and soon after nobody will want to drink from it again. Sure, there is water still inside the well, but it just site and stagnates in filth, until eventually the heat of the desert dries it out or covers it in sand (in which case the life is over).

Now imagine if a holy man visits the contaminated well and takes out most of the dirty water and refills it to the top with pure fresh water. This can be though of as a baptism by water; a rebirth of the well or a second chance.

Some of you wonder; a second chance at what?

What can the well ever do but stay in the desert and evaporate. Well, it will bless many thirsty travelers who pass by as long as it stays pure. And this will all be for the glory of his name; the creator of all water and life.

Let’s say that you realize that you are a well in the middle of the desert (which you should because we all essentially are). If your mind is clear and true, you will realize that the only thing you want to do if evaporate and become one with the flowing oceans again. But remember that there is a purpose for you to be isolated in the desert (no, it is not to become more and more impure and die slowly). Your purpose is to share you water, and glorify him name.

How can you share your water to a much wider demand of thirsty travelers?

You can start with prayer and use god’s blessings to clean up your water ever purer until your water is so holy that your well becomes famous as a hotspot of the source. People will come from miles and miles to drink and be blessed from your well. Until, they figure out a way to bottle your water and transport it to all corners of the globe, so everyone in the world can share and enjoy in your blessings as well. As this happens, the source will surely bless you even more to meet the high demand for him. He will open up a water vein in the ground and connect it to your small well, and you will become on huge bubbly spurting fountain of water (just hope your well is strong enough to receive the massive flow of water that you hoped and prayed for, because when it comes in all its glory you might actually explode and cease to exist).

As long as the source is with you, you will live on forever and you will be filled always!

Please visit one of the greatest sources available: http://www.tapestrychurch.org/

I’ll Ask You a Question:

2006-01-24T22:40:00.000-05:00

Here is a new story that has reached me; it is similar but different to the story of the prodigal son:

There was a father with two sons. One son, by his actions and nature, was bad while the other was good and pure.

One day, the two sons went to the mall to go shopping. The father told his good son to stay close to his brother; and keep him out of trouble.

So when the two sons entered the mall, the first thing the bad son tried to do was run off and lose the good son. He knew that as long as the good son was keeping an eye on him, he couldn’t have any fun.

The good son was faithful to his father’s wishes and he was always two steps behind. But, he couldn’t stop the bad son from shoplifting at one of the stores, even though he warned him over and over about their father’s displeasure.

The bad son got caught by the security guards. But before he was taken off to jail, he lied and told the authorities that the good son was his accomplice. And the good son agreed because he knew what the bad son was doing, and he failed to stop him. So they both went to prison to spend the night.

This was not the bad son’s first trip to jail. He fought and screamed about how much he hated it, but for some reason, he found himself headed there again and again. This was the good son’s first trip to jail though.

The father who was the richest man in town found out about the whole situation quick and set them free before they even saw the entrance to the cage doors. He forgave any wrongdoings of his two sons instantly and welcomed them back to be with him at his mansion.

But, suppose the father was not a rich man. Suppose he only had enough money to bail out one son. Which son would he bail out?

Obviously he would save the son that brings the most glory to his house and name; the faithful son.

In this scenario, what would become of the bad son?

Obviously, he would have to wait in jail until his father has saved up enough money. But, perhaps the bad son would find a pleasurable home amongst all the sinful men locked in with him. Maybe, he’d even become the king of the prison, and rule there until his end.

Now, here is my question to all you readers:

What would happen if the father had no money to free any of his sons? What are his options? What would become of the two sons in prison?

The Key to Inspiration

2006-01-17T23:11:00.000-05:00

The creations of God are awe inspiring and awesome. They are like a symphony that started long ago (long before you ever existed), are still playing, and will continue to play (long after your end). There’s so much of it! So many new creations: tunes, melodies, choruses, arts, and styles. So much to discover and experience! Try to absorb it all in if you can. Get the creative buzz (inspirational bliss). Get revved up and excited!!! Praise God’s creations, his works, and his glory. Get ready to be excited to learn more from the Bible. His influence will move through you and live!

Find potential and inspiration in everything!

When you see something godly and good (the best art: art always remembered)); see how beautiful it is and find inspiration on how you can do something like it in your own work or life!

-Finding the best is like seeing a flicker of God’s robe.

When you see something ungodly and evil (the worst art: art easily forgotten); see how ugly it is and find inspiration on how you can avoid doing something like it in your own work or life.

-Finding the worst is fun sometimes and oftentimes funny; it’s interesting to see the age’s deception and lies that they find to be the current style.

Experiencing these types of art/ creation will help you to reach tremendous growth and learn from a new perspective (gain new understanding).

Join God as he guides you through his perfect plan. Become his art, the miraculous work that gets his children’s attention. That is valued as a true work of the Father.

Or if you feel like making your own style of art that glorifies and praises God, and you know it his will, let it be done. But remember to do it in a way that praises him and the finished work will lead others to him.

Be god’s biggest fan boy; create his art so that you can be the first to see it when it is done! You will be one happy witness (and blessed too) when you do because it is magnificent to see!

If your focus is trying to make something cool, or stylish, that people would be tempted to see out of fun and excitement, make sure not to cross the line. Anything of excessive violence or perversion is never of God’s will. Never create art like this in the Father’s name, doing so will not dirty the Father’s name like you think, it will dirty your own name and will mess up up bad (set your life backwards).

When you see God’s creation clearly, you see the entire world of art and the importance of every little thing. God’s creation is perfect and balanced and inspiring.

For more inspiration visit: http://www.tapestrychuch.org

How Terrible is a Life of Deceit and Deception

2006-01-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

A life of sin is self destruction. Humanity always tries to do all they can to save themselves from the troubles of the world, but they don't recognize that these troubles are brought on by themselves.

The real answer is through prayer and relationship with god.

Unfortunatley, most humanity does not know this; the actions and ideas they try are vanity. These actions only get them deeper and deeper into the abyss.

Will they dig themselves too deep, past the point of no return?

We Are the Tapestry

2006-01-03T21:29:00.000-05:00

I am part of the Tapestry. We are one in the same, and my work brings the Tapestry to higher glory for God. One day, the Tapestry will grow so big it will be seen and known by all.

We should never complain about our current conditions or hardships. Rather we should work diligently to improve our life and the works of the Tapestry. To stay on this blessed standard of living and overcome future obstacles and trials means we will reach the next level (An even holier standard of life).

0 This is what it means to live in Eternal Light:

-Knowing and learning the teachings of God gives you greater wisdom, understanding, and truth.

-The truthful way to live is a lifestyle full of blessings and achievement. Living in the truth is accepting our many imperfections and inadequacies, and living a life of continuous self improvement (We all fall short when measured against God).

-Finding a deeper meaning to life and obtaining greater wisdom.

-Moving forwards always; avoiding back steps and knowing how to prevent them.

-Though we are and always will remain imperfect as long as we live with flesh, we should not always punish ourselves (try to kill your flesh) just for living on earth and having temptations of the flesh. It is good to keep your sights on heaven and desire to be with god, but also know that you are living on earth for a reason; to do God's will and increase his glory (Lead his children to him).

-We should only kill our evil intents. Even with all negative thoughts erased you will still lead a fulfilling life. In fact, you will be empowered with a more fulfilling life because God promises total, complete fulfillment from life if you follow him. The best health, happiness, freedom, fortune and blessings await those who go to live with the father.

-God gives us rules and regulations clearly outlined to live a healthy normal fulfilling life, all in a positive life giving manner.

0 Lets all pray to be fruitful and productive so that we may remain on this high level with god, and be allowed to reach the next level. Let us always strive to be a more perfect servant for God.

-Our minds are unlimited except by our faith and belief. We were made in God's image thus we have the soul to make our own decisions on what we believe as real.

-Our flesh is very clearly limited set by God's ways.

Our minds eye and ear are more in tune with experiencing god, than our physical eyes and ears will ever be. Cleanse and purify the mind. Keep a focus on doing god's work and become readily Multiple in his hands. He promises a strong and meaningful life on earth if you do. For God is the one who created you and he alone knows what is best for you now and in the future. Trust in his words and you will live life in complete fulfillment, for there is no better place to live than in the father's house.

God Bless the Tapestry Church

2005-12-27T22:14:00.000-05:00

How fortunate we are to have the Tapestry Church. How fortunate we are to be a part of this movement (for it is god's plan, work, movement).

Listen to this story:

There was once a junkyard that stretched for miles and miles. It stretched so far that everyone who lived in the area couldn’t escape the smell of the rotting garbage. The owner of this junkyard had once built a gallery for beautiful art, but over the years, the garbage from outside overflowed through the door and covered the floor.

One day, the owner decided that he wanted to clean up the junk and shovel it all down into the pit. But, he decided that the people who made the mess should clean it up. And so he started to quilt a Great Tapestry that would inspire the residents to take out the trash. He hired a special curator to run the gallery and explain the tapestry’s message to anyone who entered the gallery. The curator always made sure to advertise the tapestry and put a spotlight on it at all times. With the help of the curator the tapestry glowed with light, even all through the night.

Then the curator had an idea to draw more visitors and speed up the process of cleanup. He allowed visitors to bring their own patch of tapestry and sew it to the Great Tapestry. And when dedicated quilters brought their patch to be a part of the tapestry, it became even more interesting and beautiful. The dedicated quilters came back to the gallery, time and time again to give glory to the tapestry and its original maker. Each time they viewed the complete piece, they received more and more meaning and understanding of the artwork. Visitors felt attached to the idea of the tapestry and began to quilt their own at home, to liven up their empty walls. They didn’t know this, but all the tapestries that were inspired by the first gave glory to the original artist. And the tapestries spread across the world and came to be known by all, and gave life to all who covered the walls with them and burned their junk.

Some Questions and Comments

2005-12-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

Jesus is the way to the father. "If you truely love me you will obey my commandments" (John 14.15).

Jesus is the light of the world (John 7.12).

O The temptation of Jesus after his baptism by John: Why is it only recorded in 3 of 4 gospels (ommited in John 1.29)?
-The book of John is the last book written and it is meant to reveal a different perspective and vision of the teachings of Jesus.

O Why was this the only time Jesus was tempted by satan?
-This was the only time that it was written that Jesus was tempted by satan, we don't know if there were other times in his life that he had been tempted.

O Why does the Book of John have so much about the Holy Spirit?
-The promise of the Holy Spirit (John 14.15).
-The work of the Holy Spirit (John 16).
-The reason why is because John was the beloved of Jesus. He was closest to Jesus, thus he possibly knew the holy spirit best out of all the disciples.

O What is the Holy Spirit?
-The counselor, the helper, the messanger sent to Jesus, then to humanity at his cruxifiction (john 16).
-The healing power/source that came from Heaven down to Jesus at his Baptism. From that point on Jesus could preform miracles, along with start his ministry.
-The spirit that reveals god's truth and glory, and leads us on the path of Holiness/Jesus.

O How come in the old days of Moses, only certain animals, such as Lambs, Goats, and Doves are suitable for sacrifice?
-These animals are holy above all other animals. Their sacrifice is most pleasing to the Lord.
-Doves symbolic of Holy Spirit/purity.
-Sheep/Lambs symbolic of Christ
-Goat sybolic of passing on sin

O What is Heaven described as?
-Heaven was described by Jesus as the Father's House; where we can live in happiness, peace and security.
-In Heaven there is only day because Jesus is the light and his love rules there.

The Beginning

2005-12-13T19:54:00.000-05:00

The purpose of these writings is to record ideas, thoughts, revelations, and questions. I want to share these ideas with you. I also want to compile a list of "to do's" and follow through with it, and organize a good / positive / truthful system to live by. Prayer is especially important in a truthful system for memorizing scripture, finding your hobbies / skills, and improving your physical fitness, and to be organization at church.

What is Truth?

-Truth is Jesus; the physical walking being of love, I am or to be (who now has all authority over heaven, earth and hell).
-Truth is holy and perfect in love, life and friendship. It is also rich in faith.
-Truth is always good; the essence of all things good.
-Truth is life; the living word / a source of light.
-Truth is a promise from god.
-Truth is self improvement, and upgrade from your vanity / flesh.
-Truth is blessings eternal from heaven.
-Truth is help / assistance from God for all of humanity to find him, come to him, and be with him. His holy / positive rule.
-Truth is true happiness, complete fulfillment, and surety.
-Truth is clarity, light, simplicity, wisdom, passion, control and discipline.
-Truth is the opposite of the lie.
-Truth is unity / cross cultural / timeless.
-Truth is love for God the Father.
-Truth is peace, security, prosperity, joy / blessings.
-Truth is the essence of "yes".
-Truth is giving, sharing, sacrifice, humbleness.
-Truth is healing. -Truth is learning (explained / reveled in patterns).
-Truth is massive mental power / knowledge / teaching.

What is the Deception?

-Deception is Satan; the Lie that creates his kingdom on earth and builds armies to rise to power.
-Deception is the enemy.
-Deception is hate (especially for God the Master).
-Deception is division, racism, borders, fads, trends, commercialism.
-Deception is killing.
-Deception is adultery.
-Deception is rape.
-Deception is stealing, taking, excessive consumption.
-Deception is pure evil.
-Deception is hypocrisy, confusion, complexity (1000 facts fused together to construct a pretty believable delusion), false testament.
-Deception is contamination.
-Deception is addiction, drunkenness, demon possessed.
-Deception is doubt, waywardness, indecisiveness.
-Deception is laziness, sloth ness
-Deception is carnal desires, indulging in the flesh, humanity / physical world / living on earth.
-Deception is sin; hell eternal
-Deception is death / suffering.
-Deception is war, mass physical power (false power), darkness, blindness.
-Deception is self-destruction.
-Deception is stupidity growing more stupid.
-Deception is a curse (always decreasing).
-Deception is sickness, disease, toxic infection.
-Deception is excess, gluttony.
-Deception is backstabbing, cheating, betrayal, hurting your friends / family / community / world.
-Deception is pollution, waste, trash.
-Deception is ignorance.
-Deception is crime.
-Deception is arrogance, vanity, pride, temptations of the flesh.

What is God?

-God is the King of all things on heaven and earth. His rule is perfect and is in effect now, has always been effect in the past and will always be in effect forever. He all that is, was, or will be ever.
-God is the father, the master, the ruler and the creator.
-God is justice / equality / balance.
-God is perfection (holiness, pure and ultimate power).
-God is protection that never fails; covering from any harm / demonic attack.
-God is creation.
-God is the law of the universe, nature, physics, science, art, beauty, history, government.
-God is total control, the ultimate authority / true majority / democratic rule.
-God is the will to rule over all
-God is inspiration, beauty
-God is punishment to evil
-God is all time, space, mass, and heaven (the abstract / 4th dimension / spiritual world we neither see or understand)
-God is so big; he is everything / indescribable / infinite glory.
-God has all the power / talent / skills / ability to create the universe and he chooses to give it to those who are faithful.
-God can do anything (only through him are great things possible)
-God is freedom / law / faith / hope
-God is order / a perfect system of rule / government / justice.
-God is the most powerful force in this world and in all other planes of existence, and nonexistence.
-God is all knowledge, wisdom, and understanding; past, present, and future.
-God is the alpha and omega; he is the "I am".

The Direction of Thought: the beginnings of the flood

2005-11-08T20:46:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the bright place known as my mind. I've cleaned it out and filled it full of goodness and deep thoughts for all to enjoy. Hopefully, you'll be inspired by my growth and life improvements and so be inspired to advance your own life. The Tapestry is my vine and, with its support, there is no way I can fail! My mission is to follow the truth and lead others towards him, for he promises life and blessings to all those who love and have faith in god, from now until the end of time.

The New Focus

2005-11-08T19:40:00.000-05:00

Peter Yim and I are going to be starting a new thing. The writings will now exist to stir conversation on mystical Christian ideas. peter is the one with all the questions. I don't have answers, I am going to discuss. Your place is to comment. We believe that with the entire community envolved, we are going to get some great direction.

So, let's start the conversation and see what happens.

"Friends & Family"

2004-11-26T07:14:00.000-05:00

The delimma is how do we make people feel welcome and at the same time, have the close nit community we need that strives for purity and right relationships with God and others? The whole idea of members and guests is one that a club or business might use. The membership term from the Scriptures I find is the term used for a part of a human body. We instead, might as well call the "members," "the legs" or"the arms." But the word member was never meant to be used in a way that denoted the ones that were "in" or "out." Jesus always went to the disenfranchised, spent time with the outcast and stopped to talk with the unlovelies. Yet, today, we write into our bylaws and our programs a way to separate and divide.

Out of much prayer, we have come to the terms "friends" and "family." And if it were not for the fact that we live in a place where terms are required for our actual government documents and such, we would probably have no terms. This, of course would and still probably will lead to some of our brothers and sisters in other churches to call us "friends of sinners." But isn't that perfect? That is what Jesus was called!

Friends: The ones who have come to Journey alongside us, not necessarily joining the story of God.

Family: Those who have forsaken their own story for the story of God. And as in doing such have now chosen Jesus as their Master and thus have now apprenticed themselves to Him.

These are a few thoughts, as I still toy with these concepts, I am never finished exploring and discovering.

One more thought: "Treat friends as if they were family and treat family as if they were your friends."

-A thought my father-in-law had to add to the discussion as we discussed friends and family.

My Birthday

2004-11-17T16:50:00.000-05:00

Today is my 30th birthday! As I spend a few minutes recounting the past three decades of life, I have come up with one belief. The times I spent for myself were unmemorable, the times I spent on others, profitable. The moments used in simple fun were waste without cause, yet the moments I thought wasted on a cause were gain. Every lost second spent in adventure was only a gained memory that I must pass on, so that I might bless the next. All in all, life spent on self is intolerable, but life for others, a treasure!

-My big thought for the day. I will be back with more. Welcome to my online secret diaries.

the Writings

2004-08-30T13:34:00.000-04:00

The Writings Begin. More to Come