tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31022460778037493252024-03-12T16:50:26.863-07:00new life nowChris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-17908177568781890432012-01-05T16:34:00.000-08:002012-01-05T17:13:03.543-08:00I QUIT...I grew up in a culture that said, <b><i>"quitters never win and winners never quit". </i></b> It is funny how little phrases like that stick with us throughout our life. However, it's not so funny that these words shape how we <i>live our life</i> everyday. <b>Simply put: Quitting is hardly ever an option we choose willingly!</b><div><br /></div><div>Why: Because the words, I QUIT, <i>are riddled with emotions that express</i>: Failure, Defeat, Guilt, Shame, Awkwardness and Worthlessness.</div><div><br /></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rhYk36PAx0U" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>What if the words I QUIT could actually mean something entirely different? What would happen if the words I QUIT became a part of our everyday vocabulary? <b>What if this DAUNTING phrase, could take on a whole new meaning that speaks victory instead of defeat?</b><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>This coming Sunday, we will launch a series that will potentially change the <b>ENTIRE TRAJECTORY of your year...</b>maybe even your life.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am fired up about the next four weeks at <a href="http://www.newcommunityonline.com">New Community Church</a>. I am fired up about how many lives will be changed. I am fired up that many of us will take next steps. I am FIRED UP about saying I QUIT! </div><div><br /></div><div>Will you join me? EVERYONE is WELCOME. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>with the big and safe love of Christ...</i></div><div>chris</div>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-27589557159076881472011-06-21T06:23:00.000-07:002011-06-21T11:49:41.121-07:00One of those days...<span style="font-weight:bold;">Sunday, was one of those days.</span> Can I be honest? As a leader of a church, some Sundays are better than others...wouldn't you agree? Considering all that happens at a weekly gathering: volunteers showing up, attendance (high or low), music selection, teaching points and overall feel of the service. These things, if we are not careful, can make us "feel" a certain way about our church.<br /><br />Last Sunday, two significant things happened in the life of New Community.<br /><br />The first thing was we kicked off a series called: Who do you think you are...learning that <span style="font-weight:bold;">if you know who you are, you will know what to do.<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> It was an intense teaching.<br /><br />The second thing that happened was: Our financial management team communicated to our church that things were tight and we need New Community to step up financially if we were going to continue to do ministry on this campus. It was an intense 10 minutes of disclosure and transparency.<br /><br /><b>This past Sunday was one of those days...</b><br /><br />Prior to the service, two things were communicated to me over and over again by the people that make up New Community.<br /><br />First, one after the other, people reassured me that they will be intentional givers and that we will get through this season. How cool is that? <br /><br />Second, numerous people let me know that they were having a difficult time from job loss to health issues, or to the end of long marriages and everything in between. As hard as it is to hear these things, the message for the day was able to speak truth in to their life..<b>.hupernikao!</b> <i>(check out the podcast if you missed)</i> It was an honor to be able to present the truth of the scriptures that met immediate needs for those in the room...God is good.<br /><br />After preaching as hard as I could, we grabbed some lunch with my dad, I got to take a nap, got to watch some golf with my boys on the couch and got to wrap up the day with dinner with some friends who love our family unconditionally...it was a sweet, sweet day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The GLORY goes to God</span>. Jesus is alive in our community. He is meeting our every need. I am thankful to be a part of a church that lets Jesus be enough.<br /><br />Thank you new community for being an amazing place. <br /><br />See you all on Sunday as we continue to ask the question: <b>WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?</b>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-60256400950742166972010-11-30T11:36:00.000-08:002010-11-30T11:46:35.476-08:00Back in the Saddle-Sabbatical OverWell, today i am officially back in the saddle. It has been an amazing journey this month, and I look forward to sharing what God has taught us over the weeks and months to come.<br /><br />This week, I am "easing" back in to the seat as we get ready to crank it for our December run at New Community. I am going to be meeting with each of our staff members one on one to catch up and also prep for this Sunday's message. Our staff has laid out an awesome Christmas Series and I am pumped to kick it off this weekend.<br /><br />God has great things instore for you, for us and for Jackson County. I look forward to seeing you this weekend. The holidays are always a great time to re-engage and invite friends to experience what God is doing at New Community. <br /><br />See you soon and have a great week!<br /><br />ChrisChris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-27372737487962306972010-11-17T18:02:00.000-08:002010-11-17T18:44:09.653-08:00Identity-week three of sabbaticalYes, it has been a number of days since I wrote a blog. I felt the overwhelming need to just be quiet for a while. Why, you ask? It all started toward the end of my 1st week at the grill.<br /><br />One of the things you have heard me teach from the stage at New Community is that when we are believers...our Identity is in Christ...not what we do, not our career, not what we produce. That we truly live and thrive, when our Identity is in Christ...when we are secure in that ID and when we live in it. This is something that i have learned and understood through the process of planting New Community and through discipleship counseling with Healing Grace Ministries.<br /><br />By Thursday or Friday of week one at the Grill, the Holy Spirit asked me a question...no i didn't hear an audible voice...just a deep pressing deep within. The question went something like this, "Chris, is your Identity in me, Jesus; or do you find your identity in leading New Community?" POW, right there in the middle my shift, this question rocked my world.<br /><br />Why would this question come to me then, and why not while i was sitting drinking some coffee while reading the bible or something?<br /><br />Just before this hit me, I found myself yearning for something. I found myself anxious about something. It was on the heels of these thoughts and feelings when the Holy Spirit pressed in on me.<br /><br />Jeff, the owner/operator of the Collegiate Grill, has been gracious enough to just introduce me to his regular customers as his friend...not his pastor...just his friend. However, by the end of the first week, the thing that was overwhelming my thoughts and emotions, what consumed all of me was the desire to tell people WHO I WAS. I didn't want to tell them i was a regular guy that was married to Dawn and we had 4 kids with one on the way...NO...what was shouting inside of me...what i wanted to tell everyone was that I was a PASTOR, that i led the second largest church in Jackson County, that i had entire staff...that i was somebody important and someone of worth and that i was only here for a month...then i would be back to what "I DO".<br /><br />It was right on the heels of this...when God in His graciousness checked me in my spirit. I realized after several days of processing this emotion, that this idea of my identity being in Christ was head knowledge that I knew well...but not HEART knowledge. This truth that the Scriptures reveal about our Identity in Christ had made it to my head...it just hadn't settled in to my heart.<br /><br />Praise God that this came in this moment. Thank God that He loves me enough to Shepherd me as a loving Father. Glory to God that He is allowing me to see this now, not 10 years from now.<br /><br />This is why I have been quiet. This is why i haven't written anything. I have needed this truth to take root into the deepest part of me. <br /><br />I love each of you dearly. I am so thankful that New Community is in a position that I could take this time away. I am convinced that our best days are ahead, and that over the next few years we are all going to look back and stand in AWE of what God has done through the ministry of New Community Church.<br /><br />My name is Chris. I am a follower of Jesus. I love Dawn and we have four amazing children and one on the way (April 16 cant get here fast enough). I help lead the coolest church in the world...what a sweet life God has granted me.<br /><br />Grace and Peace my friends.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-86338325204766312742010-11-08T07:03:00.000-08:002010-11-08T07:27:09.716-08:00Detoxing-week 2 of SabbaticalSo, many of you have noticed that i have lost a few pounds. You have either seen me or you have seen my status update each time i hit a goal. Since July, i have been implementing a weight management system that has allowed me to loose weight slowly and effectively. One of the the things that have have taken last month, was a "Detox" pill. It, in so many words, strips out everything unnatural in my physical body, metals, chemicals, toxins. Even though my weight loss has slowed down, I feel so much better. Physical health is a wonderful thing that i have been taking for granted far too long...<br /><br />...this has been the case for my spiritual journey as well...taking it for granted and not paying attention to what is actually going on within me. This sabbatical is a DETOX for me spiritually.<br /><br />I am heading in to week 2 and usually after being gone for a week of vacation, i know that Monday comes and i get to go back to what i do. Lead New Community.<br /><br />It is Monday, and I am not. I am sitting in a coffee shop in Gainesville continuing my Detox from New Community. And what a Detox it is. This analogy is a good one, and can can be compared to someone coming off of drugs. I know...crazy talk.<br /><br />After being gone for a week, and knowing that i will not be back until December 1, I have realized that for the last 4 years, NC has been the drug of choice for me. She has consumed me, my thoughts, my love, my passion...my life. Coming off this drug is HARD. It is difficult, but I know that it is God's perfect timing for me, my family and HIS CHURCH. God needs me step back and realign with what his scriptures teach. God, Family, Work.<br /><br />It is a difficult thing to process when you realize that what I teach from the stage is not what I have modeled and lived in my life. Thank God for GRACE and for the Holy Spirit reminding me of my DEEP NEED for IT.<br /><br />Week 2 will be interesting. In 40 minutes i will be slinging burgers at the Grill while standing by my friend Jeff Worley. Jeff led a church for 8 years, never took a break, never detoxed. I believe with all of who I am that God allowed his family to land a NC so that I could hear his story and take heed. May I never take my role in my family and my church for granted ever again. <br /><br />Praise God for his patience, grace and mercy...detoxing hard...but the alternative is worse.<br /><br />I love you my friends. More to come on Pride later this week.<br /><br />Grace and Peace...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-18228871186565561202010-11-03T17:38:00.000-07:002010-11-03T17:56:23.717-07:00Unleashing the FuryI walked in to the Collegiate Grill today ready to roll like yesterday, fast paced but nothing too scary. When I stepped back to the grill, this is what was in front of me: <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5vpwe8wIU7gECx9_BbU7NeNiVvRM_laHnDUt399UpaED16tEjkf7T9oslkWffqFtAGcsnZHDFPXDbt3LfzxGk_TNPKC6AOOe-YIYvHC_Q6BuCX2Ut9MlnNv-A4qhPoMkIGjYlkzOEOY/s1600/20101103105904.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535487923547063490" style="WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5vpwe8wIU7gECx9_BbU7NeNiVvRM_laHnDUt399UpaED16tEjkf7T9oslkWffqFtAGcsnZHDFPXDbt3LfzxGk_TNPKC6AOOe-YIYvHC_Q6BuCX2Ut9MlnNv-A4qhPoMkIGjYlkzOEOY/s320/20101103105904.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />This is the order that is waiting before the store even openned (20 call ins before 11 am). When it rains in Gainesville, apparently everyone calls their orders in and has them delivered. Not to mention, 2 jury pools from the courthouse showed up along with hundreds of others. I didn't think it was possible to double the amout of food we prepared yesterday, but today we cranked out twice as much as we did yesterday. It was INSANE.<br /><br /><br />After the lunch crowd emptied at 2 pm, it was time for us to eat. Jeff let me step up to the grill and cook my own burger (because the place was empty). I thought Five Guys was good, but when one you sink your teeth in to one of these...you realized there is no comparison. A made to order Bacon Cheeseburger with Grilled Onions, ketchup and mustard. mmmm good.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0gvJupXl-C1C1t5-Gi8ePyCSSTMF8y9D9dJsZbfvUIbGoLGLtpUQ6_ARmDSbVYiwCLEw_TV_GnaVS3M2Q7W3JWfRtMeBOquVQVGUvwUFvHGy1c3JZTkCd55ozGhqkxT45ByX9d2dcNc/s1600/20101103140727.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535489427940527410" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0gvJupXl-C1C1t5-Gi8ePyCSSTMF8y9D9dJsZbfvUIbGoLGLtpUQ6_ARmDSbVYiwCLEw_TV_GnaVS3M2Q7W3JWfRtMeBOquVQVGUvwUFvHGy1c3JZTkCd55ozGhqkxT45ByX9d2dcNc/s320/20101103140727.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I ate and then headed home to hang with the kids. <br /><br />Tomorrow, after i drop the kids off at school, I am going to hit a coffee shop before going to the grill to begin reading through the proverbs and the book of John. I am expecting God to teach me some new things and give me fresh insight to his Word. <br /><br />Day three of my sabbatical was good.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-68262654364074886642010-11-02T17:43:00.000-07:002010-11-02T18:01:31.308-07:00Day one @ Collegiate Grill<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvA6VPfovkDgO5COMNCzCBc15wJz03BuieZNLNXAOCkUCtBYyUg2dRG0K0O6drW2vX-NIINTvvDok6EpV_1lv-_Ac09Xdp7TIfIPBLHgj-GmBxMZumrQ1ge2GWtRhKz7cwwS5y6w4emE/s1600/collegiate1-1212_medium.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535121886053729586" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 306px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvA6VPfovkDgO5COMNCzCBc15wJz03BuieZNLNXAOCkUCtBYyUg2dRG0K0O6drW2vX-NIINTvvDok6EpV_1lv-_Ac09Xdp7TIfIPBLHgj-GmBxMZumrQ1ge2GWtRhKz7cwwS5y6w4emE/s320/collegiate1-1212_medium.jpg" border="0" /></a>So, today i got to jump in to "dressing" burgers and dogs at the USA Today's best burger joint in GA. From 11am-2pm, i was trained and turned loose to put all the fixins on made-to-order burgers and hot dogs...and let me tell you, we didnt slow down at all. It was FULL on.<br /><div></div><br /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Jeff and Donna Worley, the owner/operators of the Collegiate Grill in downtown Gainseville, have created an amazing environment that not only has good food, but is a fun place to work.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>As Jeff was giving me the rundown, he let me know that when he started this business it would be built on three pillars. Consistency, Quality and Experience. Their attention to detail and customer service is unreal, and I stood in awe of how his entire team works together as a fluid machine accomplishing their vision for having the best burgers and dogs around...everyone doing their part to create an amazing experience for every customer that walked through the doors. It was natural, fluid, intentional and smooth. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Tomorrow, it will be more of the same from 11am-2pm. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-43579772924279289552010-11-01T06:18:00.001-07:002010-11-01T06:46:32.680-07:00If you missed church on SundaySo, if you missed church this past Sunday, you missed me letting everyone know that I will be taking a one month Sabbatical (extended time off for renewal). This was a difficult decision but the timing could not be better for me and for my family. This is also not unsual for the leader to take an extended break to rest and re-charge.<br /><br /><strong>The Why behind the What?</strong><br /><ul><li>It has been an amazing 3.5 year run here at NC and we have seen God start a church with 11 families in February 2007 and now over 700 people call New Community their church home.</li><li>During the past 3.5 years, we have run wide open and we are at the point where we need to step back to rest, refuel and realign. Quite frankly, i'm exhausted and as a family we need to re-establish some healthy rhythms as a family as we prepare for baby #5.</li><li><strong>We are strong as a Church so now is a good time to take an extended break</strong>. Our Staff and Leadership Teams will not only carry NC forward, but i expect God to show up in big ways as his scriptures promise and we will see spiritual, relational, numerical and financial growth throughout November.</li><li><strong>The next 3-5 year run at NC is going to be exciting and intense</strong>, so before we roll that out in January, my family and I need to get re-charged and ready for God to do amazing things.</li></ul><p>Starting today, I will be unavailable (i know, crazy). My email will be forwarded to my administrator and I will not be returning voicemail unless it is of a personal matter. If you have an emergency, Stephen our staff pastor, is available to you along with our staff. The month of November will be an exciting month for New Community so I encourage each of you to show up and see what God is up with with our Christmas Offering and with our Thanksgiving Series: Grattitude.</p><p>I will be back in the office on December 1st and back on the stage teaching on December 5th to launch our Christmas Series. Until then, you can follow me on Facebook as I update everyone on how things are going and what I am learning.</p><p>I love each of you dearly and I look forward to seeing you in one month.</p><p>Grace and Peace...</p><p>Chris and Dawn.</p>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-79024286097038064552010-05-18T05:33:00.000-07:002010-05-18T05:40:12.034-07:00perspectiveSo, Stephen kicked off our James teaching series on May 2nd. It was a great start to a series that invites all of us to align the way we live, with our faith. He taught on James 1:5-7 and basically zeroed in on asking God for wisdom and how if we do that, God will give it to us. Everyone in the room was invited to pray for God's perspective for two weeks in regard to someone in our life. <br /><br />Today, two weeks later, i am beginning this process. This morning was my first moring to pray specifically for wisdom around several things. I am excited about what God is going to share with me and i look forward to his perspective.<br /><br />peace...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-91407533089628549152010-04-27T05:14:00.000-07:002010-04-27T05:27:19.755-07:00Making Every Effort-Knowledge2 Peter 1:5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith, goodness and to goodness, KNOWLEDGE.<br /><br /><em><strong>Knowledge:</strong> acquaintance with facts, truths, or principles, as from study or investigation</em><br /><br />So, how do we add knowledge to our faith? Making every effort to add knowledge to our faith does require us to bend our normal rhythm of the day to attain knowledge of God. I would love knowledge to just transfer by osmosis but unfortunately, that is not how it works. Here are the things that i do on a weekly basis to add knowledge and i would invite you to join me in these things.<br /><br />1. Read the bible. If you dont know where to start, read a chapter out of Proverbs and a chapter out of John beginning with chapter 1.<br />2. Podcast biblical based teachers: My ipod has these teachers: Frances Chan, Rob Bell, Andy Stanley. I am also about to start listening to Matt Chandler. <br />3. Memorize scritpure: one verse a week.<br /><br />These are good places to start when it comes to adding Knowledge to our Faith. As we make this effort, know that God will honor your effort as you depend on him to give you knowledge through these sources. <br /><br />Have a great day...see you soon.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-8680234741303446792010-04-26T07:29:00.001-07:002010-04-26T07:50:55.583-07:00Making Every EffortHello Everyone...what a day at New Community yesterday. We wrapped up "the Exchange" teaching series and as promised, I wanted to give some more insight to our teaching text each day this week.<br /><br />If you are just now joining in, our series has been about how we can exchange death for life through Jesus and also experience the "full" life he says is possible even though we live in a broken world.<br /><br />Yesterday we jumped in to 2 Peter 1:3-9, spending time understanding how verses 5-7 shake out in our life.<br /><br /><strong>2 Peter 1:3-9</strong><br /> 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.<br /> 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.<br /><br />Add to your faith...goodness. Yesterday we discussed how goodness basically means moral excellence, in other words doing the right thing. The New American Commentary by Thomas R. Schreiner says this about adding Goodness and this verse:<br /><em>"Believers are to "add too" or supply with (epichoregesate) their faith "goodness" (arete). In Greek culture a benefactor (choregos) funished what was necessary for choruses. Those who did such were known as generous and lavish benefactors. The word (arete), probably translated "moral excellence," was used in 1:3 to designate by what God has called believers. God's call, we argued, is effective. He creates the moral excellence he demands. Hence, it follows that the moral excellence of believers can only be attributed to God's grace. And yet New Testament writters never polarize divine sovereignty and human responsibilty. Those whom God has effectively called to virtue are also to practice virtue with energy and intensity."</em><br /><em></em><br />We see here that God, who calls us and saves us, is the one who suppliess the goodness. At the end of the day, our role is to simply bend our effort toward letting this goodness reign in our life. Taking the time to acknowledge that it comes from God and giving him permission to unleash this in our lives.<br /><br />We all know when we are in a situation or circumstance where temptation to live outside of God's will and way's is pressing in on us. In that moment, with every bit of energy you have, yeild to the power of God within you and allow him to allow goodness to come rushing forth.<br /><br />Adding goodness to our faith, will allow us to experience life the way God intends.<br /><br />Let's make every effort today.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-35865960353696753922010-03-18T05:20:00.000-07:002010-03-18T05:39:44.170-07:00Prayer Devotion Day 4<strong>1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (New International Version)</strong><br /> <em>16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.</em><br /><br />The last couple of days, we have been specifically talking about intentionaly focused prayer or conversation with God. I hope that you have been connecting with God this week.<br /><br />The above verse weaves a new concept in to our prayer life. Be joyful always and pray continually. Now does this mean that we neglect everthing in our life so that we can be in constant meditative prayer? No. This verse is more about awareness and intentionality. Here is what i mean.<br /><br />I work for New Community. It is what God has called me to do, we believe he is doing a great thing through this local church. However, just as you go to work, i go to work as well. I serve NC, but also work on NC to make her better. <br /><br />On my desk are files. Files that have to do with what makes NC unique and helps the church carry out the vision. Everyday, i work out of these files and everyday I am diligent in working hard. Here's the dilema, in my "work" it is very possible to not pray or think about God. I know, crazy talk coming from a pastor. But when i am thinking through leadership development, systems or financial processes, it is possible to not think about God because i am in a file.<br /><br />Where are you going with this Chris? Be joyful, pray continually. <br /><br />I literally open up a file and say God, be with me today as i work. thanks for this job. Speak to me as i am diligent in working hard. This happens multiple times a day with each thing i do.<br /><br />So, whether or not i spend 20-30 minutes in focused prayer with God each day, i am weaving this "pray continually" into my workday so that i am intentionally staying connected to God.<br /><br />Be joyfull, pray continually. <br /><br />peace...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-71461892464268339592010-03-17T05:04:00.000-07:002010-03-17T05:16:06.155-07:00Prayer Devotion Day 3Wednesday is always a hard day for me. Monday's are follow up day's for everyone who attended NC on Sunday and Tuesdays are our team meeting days where we get stuff accomplished as a staff. So, Wednesday gets here and my temptation is to just get cracking on work, and not take time to connect with God. <br /><br />It's hard for me to focus some quiet time to talk with God. My mind is racing with all the things i need to do because my work week will be over in 48 hours from now. Even if i wanted to be quiet and pray to God, it will be difficult to focus. <br /><br />Anyone been there?<br /><br />Here is my solution for this obsticle.<strong> I journal my prayer.</strong> <br /><br />I have a journal, it sits on my desk. And when I can not focus my mind to pray, i have found that if i write my prayer down...my mind doesn't wander.<br /><br />Maybe today or tomorrow, you can read Matthew 6:9-13 a couple of times and then rewrite it in your own words. Literally, get a pen and paper and write down how you would pray it in your own unique way. This accomplishes two things. <br /><br />1. You are reading the scriptures.<br />2. You are focusing your prayer through the discipline of writting it down.<br /><br />This helps me when i feel like i have too much to do. And when i am finished, i am always thankful that i took the time to engage with my heavenly Father. <br /><br />Here's the scripture: read it, write it in your own words.<br /><em>Matthew 6:9-13 (New International Version)<br /> 9"This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us today our daily bread. 12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.[</em><a title="See footnote a" href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%206:9-13&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23296a"><em>a</em></a><em>]'</em><br /><em></em><br />grace and peace...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-14767732326160658782010-03-16T04:49:00.000-07:002010-03-16T05:05:17.700-07:00Prayer Devotion Day TwoYou are not alone.<br /><br />Yesterday 46 people joined you in coming to this blog and began being intentional about talking to God. Very cool. We are in this together, and you are not alone.<br /><br />As we continue to think through this praying thing, Ioften have moments when I don't "feel" God or think he isn't around. This weekend we touched on the fact that not only is God around us as Christ-followers, he is in us through his holy spirit. My emotions may say one thing, but what is true is that God and I are completely connected.<br /><br />But what about the times that I try to pray and i've got nothing (no words to say)? Have you ever been there?<br /><br />Check these passages of scripture out:<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8:26&version=NIV"><em>Romans 8:26</em></a><em>In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.</em><br /><br />This verse is basically saying that in the times that we dont have words to say, because God is good and he knows us completely, the holy spirit speaks on our behalf. It says he actually "intercedes" or prays for us. Is that not awesome?<br /><br />As you are begining to pray, there may be times where you will have nothing to say. Many times we may feel guilty or ashamed because of this...but God is OK with those moments and has provided a way for us to connect with him through his spirit. <br /><br />What if that is where i am at? Check this out. <br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46:10&version=NIV"><em>Psalm 46:10</em></a><em>"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."</em><br /><em></em><br />This verse not only gives me permission to just be still, i believe in the moments i dont have words to pray, that if i just be still and get quiet, God will do his part and the holy spirit in that moment will pray on my behalf.<br /><br />Many times, prayer isnt about the words...it is about quiet, it is about surrender, it is about yeilding to God. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.<br /><br />May you spend some time today embracing this truth as you spend a few moments just being still before God.<br /><br />grace and peace my friends...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-10010880377014809792010-03-15T04:54:00.000-07:002010-03-15T05:09:32.658-07:00Prayer Devotion OneAnd so, yesterday we learned about prayer as we continued our series: Everday, allowing Jesus to lead our lives. If you havent had a chance to listen to the message from yesterday, you can find it under the resource tab on our website: www.newcommunityonline.com.<br /><br />We looked at Matthew 6:5-13 yesterday<br /><em><br />Prayer<br />5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.<br />9"This, then, is how you should pray:<br />" 'Our Father in heaven,<br />hallowed be your name,<br />10your kingdom come,<br />your will be done<br />on earth as it is in heaven.<br />11Give us today our daily bread.<br />12Forgive us our debts,<br />as we also have forgiven our debtors.<br />13And lead us not into temptation,<br />but deliver us from the evil one.[a]'</em><br /><br /><br />Jesus first pushes back on those who were praying for the wrong reasons, and then he taught his listerners how to pray. This is commonly known as "the Lord's prayer". We learned together that Jesus wasnt giving this as a formula, but really a starting place for those who were awkward and uncomfortable to pray. Once we finished the teaching of the passage, i read a paraphrase of that prayer, or a more modern interpretation. We have already had a ton of people ask for it. So, for our prayer devo today, i am giving this to you so that it may be your beginning place as you are intentional about talking to God through prayer.<br /><br />Here it is:<br />God/Jesus you are so great<br />This cant be the way you want things to be<br />help me spread your love around here<br />Please watch out for me today<br />Forgive me for taking you for granted<br />Help me to forgive others as you have forgiven me<br />There are so many distractions going on in my life<br />keep me focused<br />Keep me pure, keep me safe, help me to live<br />my life like you want me to.<br />Thanks God, AMEN.<br /><br />May this be your prayer today. More to come tomorrow.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-58255881492780188942010-01-27T17:12:00.001-08:002010-01-27T17:21:59.889-08:00on the vergeso, new community is on the verge of becoming a church of multiple services. crazy. this sunday, we will test drive our new two service plan so that we can work out all the kinks and make sure our plan worked the way we envisioned it.<br /><br />what's so amazing is that we have had 70 families committ to moving to the early, 9:15 am service. UNREAL. These families are making room for more people in our later service that first time guests will most likely check out.<br /><br />I feel the same way that I did, the week before we launched NC in 2007. excited anticipation for what God is going to do...about what is ahead...about lives that are going to be changed with the big and safe love of Christ.<br /><br />and we are rolling out a teaching series that will push hard on the status quo. "religion poisons everything". This series is going to set us up to make significant strides forward as a faith community and as the individuals that make up our faith community.<br /><br />so, pray for God to move. pray for God to bless. pray for God to reveal. pray for God to draw those who need a safe place to connect.<br /><br />bring it.<br /><br />new website: www.newcommunityonline.comChris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-4555277820039396032009-09-07T10:31:00.000-07:002009-09-07T11:10:25.839-07:0090 Day Tithe Challenge at NCHello Everyone...<br /><br />Yesterday, we wrapped up our Direction Series. As we finished up the "partner" teaching, we invited everyone to take the 90 Day Tithe Challenge. So far, 11 families are going to honor God with their resources but are also testing him (Malachi 3:10) at the same time. It is going to be an amazing journey together this Fall as a church and i wanted to invite you to watch a video that will help teach us how to give back to God.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-ow-33N_BBw&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-ow-33N_BBw&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-16972609863464388492009-05-03T17:12:00.000-07:002009-05-03T17:20:58.657-07:00Marriage RetreatDawn and I just returned home for an awesome marriage retreat this weekend. This is the first "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">chris</span> & dawn" trip that we have had since we launched New Community. I am confident that we will make this an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">annual</span> trip. <br /><br />We spent the weekend in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Gatlinburg</span>, TN. We had several sessions that dealt with <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Covenant</span> Marriage and how our marriage will only be as strong as our relationship with God. We ate, slept, played and spent time together. It was great...getting reconnected. We feel like we have a plan to keep moving forward in our marriage each day, week, month and year.<br /><br />the only bad thing about the trip is that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gatlinburg</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">didn't</span> have a Starbucks...i know...what the. Seriously, it was a bummer because the only other coffee shops <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">didn't</span> open early and their coffee sucked. On the way home, we found the nearest <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Starbucks</span> and had a spiritual experience enjoying a good cup of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Joe</span>.<br /><br />Anyway, if you and your lover ever have a chance to go on a marriage retreat...i highly recommend it.<br /><br />Grace and Peace...Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-49648378556348651532009-04-18T12:36:00.000-07:002009-04-18T12:48:11.473-07:00vision coming to life repeatedlyLast night, Dawn and I were invited by the Mayor to attend a fundraising event for the Arts <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Commission</span> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hoschton</span>. This commission is doing everything they can to develop and launch an arts community within Jackson County. It was a great time to just hang with Dawn and marvel at how beautiful she is, especially when she is pregnant.<br /><br />As we were walking up to this historic house in downtown <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hoschton</span>, it became very clear that every person of influence was present at this event. Beer, wine, sweet tea and good food were served while a silent auction was running. As Dawn and I made our way in, we were overwhelmed with how many people we knew and with how many knew us. Over and over, throughout conversation, New Community was lifted high with praise and appreciation.<br /><br />When Dawn and I moved here to start NC, we knew we wanted it to be a church (movement) that loved people without strings attached...with no agenda...just the big and safe love of Christ. As we mingled, ate and talked, we were seeing this vision played out right before our eyes. This town, these people love NC because of who we are and who we represent. It is a beautiful thing.<br /><br />This <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">wouldn't</span> be possible if it <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">wasn't</span> for the people of NC. Everyone of YOU make this happen, day in and day out. Your generosity allows me to be in the community and your volunteerism and selflessness, has a reverberating effect all through Jackson County.<br /><br />As always, i am proud to be your leader and i am stoked about what God is doing!Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-11291447043092481442009-04-14T14:20:00.001-07:002009-04-14T14:41:29.929-07:00Easter @ NC<p>What a day it was on Easter. People just kept coming in and coming in...it was amazazing. I have to give a shout out to several groups of people. First, to all of you who invited friends...YOU ROCK. Most of our guests were from personal invites...way to go. Second, All of our volunteers that made Sunday happen...YOU are the best. So much preparation went into getting ready...and by 10 AM, we were ready. Third, everyone who gave to the Easter Offering. THANKS for getting us close to the goal your generosity is overwhelming.<br /><br />Here are the highlights from the day:<br /></p><ul><li>445 in total attendance!</li><li>More volunteers than ever before...55 people serving.</li><li>8 people indicated that they wanted Jesus to be the leader of their life.</li><li>We received $9800 toward our Easter Offering Goal of $15000</li><li>Over 50 first time guests with the families and kids</li><li>Parking lot team launched and did a fantastic job</li><li>We added a toddler environment and it was packed.</li><li>43 elementary students in the GARAGE...96 NC Kids all together!</li></ul><p>So, i am still on cloud nine. I am so proud to be your leader and i am thrilled with what God is doing @ New Community. Let the good times roll.</p>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-63249544865497819832009-03-28T15:50:00.000-07:002009-04-03T12:26:22.242-07:001% Spiritual InitiativeIf you have or haven't heard about this new initiative at NC, this video discusses the nuts and bolts of our 1% Spiritual Initiative. We will be launching this on Easter Sunday.<br /><br />We are inviting you to partner with God in this manner so that in June, New Community will be able to start paying a salary to our student and children's pastors. These two areas are the fastest growing at NC and we need to continue to take care of them well.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/h1-vKnSDOzc&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/h1-vKnSDOzc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-70786435169078160372009-03-18T05:39:00.000-07:002009-03-18T05:53:45.639-07:00The Mystery, Day EightYesterday, i encouraged you to memorize Colossians 2:6-7. Take a few minutes to review that verse and write it out from memory.<br /><br />Today, I want to invite you to read Colossians 2:16-19.<br /><br />1. Read the passage a few times underlining what sticks out.<br />2. What is this passage saying to you?<br />3. Have you ever met someone who was judgmental? What was that like?<br />4. Have you ever been the judgemental person? <br />5. What is this passage saying to the christ-follower about that person?<br />6. How can you be less judgmental as you follow Jesus.<br /><br />Prayer time:<br /><br />Obviously, most of us make "judgement calls" everyday of our life. Spend your prayer time today confessing to God that you are sorry for being judgemental and also spend time asking God to give you strength if you get judged all the time. <br /><br />Ask God to continue to live through us through the power of Jesus. Invite Jesus to reside in your heart and mind today. Give him permission to remind you of things that are not of Him.<br /><br />Amen.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-66124634876812592622009-03-17T05:59:00.000-07:002009-03-17T06:07:38.677-07:00The Mystery, Day SevenGood morning everyone...welcome back to the daily readings for Colossians. I hope that you are using this tool to help create a daily or weekly time with God. <br /><br />Today's time is going to be a little different. Just as we have to nourish ourselves physically with food to stay alive, we must also nourish our spiritual vitality. It is not us who does the changing, it is Christ in us, working through us. <br /><br />I want to invite each of you to memorize 2 verses of scripture. Colossians 2:6-7. Now, you and i do this all the time with music. As a follower of the way, it is vital that we do this with God's Word.<br /><br />So, this is how i memorize scripture. I read it over and over 4-5 times. Then i write it out multiple times. As i am writing the verse, i pray that God will allow this truth to take root in my life. I repeat this each day until it is memorized.<br /><br />Spend all of your time today, beginning this process of scripture memeory...it is food for your spiritual health.<br /><br />Colossians 2:6-7 <em><em><strong>"So then,just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."</strong></em></em><br /><br />Have a great day...hide God's word in your heart!Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-73113038046635982962009-03-16T08:48:00.000-07:002009-03-16T14:45:40.204-07:00The Mystery, Day sixWhat a day yesterday! Even with the cold and rain, it rocked at NC. We are beginning a new week for the mystery study. Check out this video and them move in to your time with God.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yQOkWULpW8g&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yQOkWULpW8g&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />1. Read Colossians 2:1-5 three times, underline things that jump out and resonate with you.<br />2. What do you think God is trying to say to you through this video and scripture?<br />3. Have you ever felt like someone was trying to decieve you? what was that like?<br />4. Verse 5, really is hard for me because it mentions an orderly life and a firm faith. How orderly would you say your life is? What needs work?<br />5. Would you consider yourself someone of strong faith or lacking faith? why?<br /><br />Prayer time:<br />Spend the next few minutes praying or journaling your prayers. Ask God to reveal to you specifically things that are out of order and out of balance in your life. Invite Jesus to be the one that brings balance and order to your life. Thank God for the knowledge and wisdom that is available through Jesus and that is hidden in us.<br /><br />talk to you tomorrow!Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3102246077803749325.post-18483515900758280492009-03-13T05:59:00.001-07:002009-03-13T06:09:39.932-07:00The Mystery, Day 5Good morning, This will be the last post for the week. I will begin writing devotions for Colossians 2 on Monday. I hope you have enjoyed this week so far and i am praying that each of you grow in your faith as we do this together.<br /><br />1. Read Colossians 1:28-29 two times.<br />2. What does "perfect" in Christ look like to you?<br />3. Have you ever thought it would be possible for you to be "perfect" in Christ? If that is attainable, how does it make you feel?<br />4. The "Church" began over 2000 years ago. What strikes you about it still being around and also, the fact that it is still reaching people?<br />5. Verse 29 says that has this energy that is so powerfully working in him. How have you sensed God working in you this week?<br /><br />Prayer: ACTS<br />Adoration: Spend time telling God how GREAT he is.<br />Confession: Spend time confessing each sin that you can remember, God is big enought to handle it.<br />Thanksgiving: Spend time thanking God for all of the good things in your life.<br />Supplication: Spend time asking God to provide what you want and need. Make your requests known to God.<br /><br />Have a great weekend, and I will see you all on Sunday.Chris Hoffmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15879133904330377334noreply@blogger.com0