Isn’t the new year such a motivation? We’re all going to lose 20 pounds – thanks to that new gym membership. I just wonder which will last longer – the number of months we stay consistent in the gym or the number of months it will take to pay off the hefty initiation fee. For me this is the worst time of year to have a gym membership. I’ll probably be waiting fifteen minutes to get on a treadmill. It may only last three weeks, but it’s a pain. Don’t get me wrong – I love seeing all the new faces. Deep inside I always want to congratulate these people for getting in the gym. I imagine it takes some courage to get off the couch and show your face at a gym. I’m being serious. No more would I want to show up at a modeling agency to try out for the next GQ cover. I’d feel out of place. I’m not sure they’d even let me in the door. At least fitness facilities are more gentle with newcomers.

I’ve decided to make my new years resolution to be in the gym less. All because my wife brainwashed me into purchasing a new treadmill. She’s had to wait several years, but her prized possession has now become a reality. I’m not sure if I can adjust to working out at home. Kind of a new phenomenon. I can’t say I’ll miss the skimpy ladies or ego-driven weight lifters.

Now I have no excuse not to run. Better yet, I may be able to shave those 29 seconds that have caused Boston to elude me. Speaking of running. For those of you looking to get motivated come January 1^st (you still have one more day to be lazy), and who live in the Midwest – let me suggest a handful of races which may keep you in the gym past Valentine’s Day. Perhaps I’ll see you at one of the following: Drake Half Marathon / 8K (April 24^th). Dam 2 Dam (June 5^th). Grandma’s Marathon (June 19^th). Urbandale 4^th of July 5K (July 4^th). Capital Pursuits 10mile (late September). Then the granddaddy, Chicago Marathon (10.10.10).

Alright, get on your horse. Happy New Years to all. Cheers to a healthy January. [please don’t drink to that…empty calories].

Some would say it is wrong to be a Christian and also be skeptical. Those are probably the people that have had the greatest hand in causing me to be both. I’m a skeptical Christian. Not a skeptic of Christianity…no I have the full measure of faith in God. But not in people. If that makes me a bad person, I can accept that. What I don’t get is how people can’t be skeptical of others. Let me share some of my skepticism with you – don’t let it taint you.

Why are people so hard to trust? I am convinced that there are so few people that are unbreakably loyal. I’ve spent my career believing that those people are all around me. Those days are behind me. How many times does it take to get burned before you call to judgment the people you share your ‘secrets’ with? Like many of you, I make myself vulnerable often. The majority of the time there are no regrets – thankfully so.

People lie. This should not surprise anyone. Sin came into the world through a lie. The virus has spread ever since. Satan himself is called the Father of Lies. Recently a friend of mine took a polygraph test. He found that it was virtually impossible to lie. Sometimes I feel like Robert De Niro in Meet the Parents, having the mind of a polygraph. Either I’m pretty good at detecting people lying or I’m just a really skeptical person. Or © all of the above.

My skepticism includes believing that Christians use God and His Word to get what they want. I picked this up in college when I’d see believers tell their significant other that they would no longer be dating because “God told me so”. Never mind the fact that he finds her annoying and that he likes another girl. Unfortunately working at a church hasn’t alleviated this Skeptic. Quite the contrary. The pastorate is a powerful position and one that can scare me at times. I love influence – until I’m reminded that people actually will do what I say. That’s when I quickly remind myself that I best be voicing the words and thoughts of God or else…
Yikes! So yeah, I’m skeptical of those in high positions too. A position of leadership and influence can quickly become an instrument for self-fulfillment. One probably doesn’t have to be reminded by the examples of some religious leaders.

I’ve wondered whether I should try surrendering my skepticism. To purge myself, as if it were a character flaw. But I see it as a blessing. Because of this nature of mine, I’ve landed on some of the most amazing relationships that life could bring me. People whom I can confide in – even when I’m told not to. Being a skeptic has helped sharpen me as a person. It’s created in me a greater value in other noble characteristics. I have to imagine that an open minded skeptic of Christianity will soon discover the love of Christ which leads to the belief in him as Savior. And when s/he does, they will be more on fire for God because of it. In a way that may make sense only to me, I’ve found this to be similar to my relation with people. I’ve realized the importance of monitoring it and yet still trying to give people the benefit of the doubt. Tough, but I make my effort. And so now I open myself to the thoughts of others. I’m all to curious to find out others’ perspective on being a Skeptic. Do you view it as wrong? Do you believe it’s harmful as a Christian to have such a view in life…of some people? Let your opinion be aired.

It was brought to my attention by a good friend of the destructive Disney Corporation. Just when I thought there were a few good companies left, my hope is now waning. Why must the moral state of our country continue to depress me? Even worse, as I look at my ten month old son – I wonder how my parenting will keep him from being tainted by all the evil empires out there. Particularly the ones targeting kids. In several of the more popular Disney movies, messages and images have been added that are in no way suitable for children’s eyes. They should be seen as subliminal messages that are absolutely uncalled for.

I will admit that in researching these inappropriate additions, only once do I recall catching it on my own in years past. However, my point of concern isn’t that all of these hidden messages will be seen by young eyes. Rather that a company which produces some of the most well known movies – past, present, and future – is progressively adding explicit material (again, for the eyes of young kids particularly). Let me give you a few examples to wet your appetite – then let you decide how much more you want to discover on your own. For the sake of staying “appropriate” I have to be rather vague with some of the details.

• The Little Mermaid reveals two of the most concerning images. One is on the cover – a clear image of a male part. The second is a clip which shows the presiding wedding officiate in another shameful situation.
• Who Framed Roger Rabbit, a PG film, who would have guessed. As if Jessica Rabbit isn’t already dressed for a porn movie – there is a scene where she (albeit quickly) spreads eagle to the camera; with no underwear.
• The word “sex” is spelled out in the air, in the movie Lion King.
• Search youtube and you’ll see many others.

As disturbing as those are to find in Disney movies, what I saw from McDonalds and Avatar infuriates me even more. Now I don’t know who the target audience is for the movie Avatar but I know when combined with a kids meal toy – the audience is clear. I debated even creating a link to the toy because it is that bad. I decided to do so because I want people to understand the seriousness behind my concern.

Fortunately for me I already hate McDonalds and would never spend $5 on a meal there anyways – but I highly suggest all parents search (and seize) their child’s toy before their kid sees it. Devastating. I don’t believe I need to even call attention to it, but when you see the toy look at the horses head. I rest my case.

In a conversation with one of my co-workers this week, I was struck by his comment that we are just days away from the end of a decade. As were both caught off guard, the shock factor continued as we considered how no one seems to be making a big deal of this. You’d think every network and major website would be posting all of their “Greatest of This Decade” suggestions. Since such doesn’t seem to be taking place either, I figured we’d handle this one. So a couple of my teammates and I took a whack at the milestones of this decade. We essentially asked ourselves “It wouldn’t be the 2000’s without these”:

• iEverything – it’s not a lie to say that “i” am the biggest deal of the last ten years.
• Google – turned a search engine into the online Wal-Mart, where one company offers a little bit of everything
• If you’re tall enough to ride a roller coaster – you’re old enough to have a cell phone. And you do.
• Myspace, which evolved into Facebook, which has now taken over our lives. And now we’re all aspiring videographers, with the creation of YouTube.
• Go Green. Sure the hippies have been on this for decades, but the rest of us just caught on this decade.
• Ladies want to be like guys and be presidents. Guys want to be like ladies and wear tight jeans.
• Terrorism and 9/11 – it has changed the way we view the world, particular religions and ethnicities, and what our country values most.
• Church has moved from an attractional model to missional. Not just inviting people in our doors, but inviting churched people out of our doors.
• Financial crisis. Gone are the days of retirement, getting a raise, or leaving a job you are unhappy with.
• Television has gone reality. Movies have gone horror. And music has gone even more trashy.
• Obesity is huge. Fast food restaurants have never been more successful. And neither has the Biggest Loser.
• We discovered that with the use of steroids you can accomplish anything in sports.
• Thanks to Rick Warren we’ve now discovered life has a purpose. “We” as in over 25 million people.

  * Alternate: Chuck Norris becomes the most dangerous man in the world. See for yourself.

Well, we tried producing a list that represents the major facets of humanity, while including only the major events of this new millennium/decade. Surely we’ve missed a couple, so we need your help. But keep in mind I’m looking for only the most critical.

Four years ago I met a young man who at the time had just graduated college and was looking to pursue a life of ministry. His future seemed bright at the time, but I wouldn’t have expected it to happen this quick. When Nick joined our staff at LCC, he was looking for a summer internship – really just a chance to do ministry for a few months before launching his own crusade. That summer he partnered in multiple areas of the church, at times with me in the youth ministry. I liked the guy, it would be hard not to with the zeal he had for the Lord. He surprised me with his incredible ability to share the gospel.

As one of his prayer partners, I’ve been able to stay in tune with his ministry, PULSE. He’s leading an evangelistic crusade that is shocking colleges and universities. At age 27 he has already spoken in front of tens of thousands and his message has led thousands of university students to make a profession of faith. With his connection to the Luis Palau Association, Nick Hall has been well equipped to be the next Billy Graham, or Luis Palau. However, if you knew him, you wouldn’t see that in him at all. It is his discipline of prayer that drives his ministry; not his interest in being the next big deal.

This past weekend he was on the campus of North Dakota University. In between the TobyMac and Kutless concerts, my brother (from a different mother) entered the stage. Before he exited, he helped lead 926 students to the Lord. I can’t help but celebrate with him and his team. This is a movement you are going to want to pay attention to. If you are involved with a college ministry look him up and see what it would take to bring PULSE to your school. And if you are in my youth ministry get excited for Challenge 2010 because Nick is one of our guest speakers.

Ever wonder how to spot a youth pastor? Here are the top ten signs of spotting one.

10. His office contains a couch, a mini fridge stacked with Mountain Dew, books about successful pranking, an extra button up shirt (in case the senior pastor makes his way down), and three months of student’s lost and found items.

9. He has a goatee, shaved head, and oversized stomach. FYI – that doesn’t mean it’s mandatory for all us youth pastors to look the same.

8. During dodge ball games, he’s the one sweating the most.

7. You get a call to have breakfast “first thing in the morning” and he shows up at 10am.

6. The man in front of you at the grocery store has the following items: shaving cream, baby food, a 4-pack of Red Bull, duct tape, and a large bag of marshmallows.
* Assuming that this man is not MacGyver.

5. You approach this man with a handshake. He gives you a fist-pound and a bro-hug instead.

4. While watching your son’s basketball game you notice a strange looking fella who gives each starter a flying chest bump during introductions. A short while later the same guy is yelling at the ref. And is strangely the same guy driving that beater of a car (yes, the worst car in the student parking section).

3. Under the Abilities section of his resume reads: plays guitar, has a CDL bus license, does free stand-up comedy, and has conquered the gallon challenge.

2. He’s on first name basis with all the local pizza show owners, arcade stores, and bowling alleys.

1. He somehow finds time to update his Facebook status multiple times each day – and considers it part of his job to Facebook stalk his students.

Since we’re dealing with stereotypes here, you will ABSOLUTELY want to check this video out. Watch the whole thing – you don’t want to miss a second!

Why is it that only our dirty laundry should be aired and not our clean clothes? I couldn’t help but think of my wife when I think about my clean laundry. I mean that both literally and figuratively. The woman is on top of my dirty laundry – again both literally and figuratively. Because I love this woman very much, I am dedicating this post to her. My wife of 5+ years. I went back to Proverbs 31 and noticed how much Kelly resembles this type of woman.

• A wife of noble character I can find. She embodies grace and goodness. I’ve seen no better example of someone who lives the fruits of the spirit than her.
• I love verse 11 – “Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.” It’s almost like he stole the words right out of my mouth. Entering parenting was a little bit of a shock for me, but I just rode on Kelly’s coattail. I have so much confidence in her parenting. Confidence in her ministry to young ladies. Confidence in her cooking!
• “She brings him good, not harm.” Kelly gives of herself to anyone who asks, or doesn’t ask. Yet she saves the best for me. Always wanting to spend time with me. She brings me the goods; I have no reason to complain. I trust this woman with my all.
• Kelly is busy in and out of the home. She is a hard worker – she cares so much for the pilates studio her and her sister run; hanging her pride on her ability to help people’s lives through physical exercise. And at home – she’s a champion. We’ve joked how when I’m home watching Judah I can be found playing with him or sitting on the couch. Kelly watches Judah while taking care of the house and her family. My wife doesn’t know how to stop. That is until she gets to her read time. I often ask her about her time in the Word, what Christian book she is reading, and if she’s taking time to be still. Now, we both struggle with being still, but she is quick to share with me her readings. I’m encouraged by her walk with the Lord!
• Proverbs 31 continues to tell of a woman clothed with strength and dignity and the ability to laugh her way through life. These are the things I’ve seen grow in Kelly since we’ve been married. She is strong, though not rugged. She knows how to stand up for herself now and is increasingly understanding the value she has in the eyes of God. When I married Kelly, she was a bit self-conscious (I’ve found that most young women are). It’s been a joy of mine to see her grow in that area – to the type of woman that knows she’s someone special. And speaking of value, it does not come through outwards adornment. I fell in love with a young lady who never questioned her need for attention. She was pure. Beautiful, and yet no need to flaunt it like so many college girls do. Her walk with the Lord is worthy of reflecting.
• This is my wife. My love. My lifelong partner.

I’m not sure which sports tournament is more enjoyable – March Madness for college basketball or college football bowl games. Fortunately I get to immerse myself in both instead of choosing between the two. And tis the season for postseason college football games. I’ve decided that this year I’d like to enjoy the games with a little challenge from friends and family. ESPN has a system where you can vote for your winning picks for each of the 34 bowl games this winter. The system is pretty slick in that you also rank the games according to your level of confidence in your winning picks. This will create some separation in the end results. I’m inviting you to join my ESPN group and getting in on some friendly competition. You need not be a football fanatic to participate.
Consider how you will have much free time over the next few weeks. There’s no cost. Only bragging rights up for grab.

Start by clicking HERE

In the search box type JonKalvig.com

This is a private group, so you’ll need the password – Iowa

You’ll then need to create a member account – should only take you a minute.

Now you’re ready to fill out your selections.

Look forward to having other players in the field. I believe you’ll have until December 18^th to make your choices, but would recommend you do it early. Bring it on!

• Judah officially took his first set of steps. At nine months old, I realize I can no longer take my eye off of him. It’s kind of weird to be proud of my son, so young. I imagine there will be so much more of that to come. Like when he tells girls that he is not open to dating until college. And the time to come when he leads his varsity coach and team to the Lord. I’ll be so proud of him every time he shows us his 4.0 report card. And while I’m dreaming – my as well throw in that time he debuts his impressive acoustic guitar skills on the Valley Church worship band…at the age of eight. *
• With the recent news about Tiger Woods, it has caused me to reflect on who and how we idolize world class athletes. I’m a Tiger fan, so this isn’t about throwing stones on everyone who looks up to him. Of course the same disappointment consumes me as what consumed many the day Kolbe Bryant was under fire. The list continues to shrink of athletes with positive off-the-field reputations. Which brings me to one in particular. Tim Tebow. As if I don’t have a hundred reasons to think highly of him already, I discovered another one today. The guy wears several wristbands – like those of Livestrong. Each one is an inspiration to him. One has to do with a kid from Niceville, FL who recently passed away after suffering a hard hit in his JV football game. When Tebow was in the area to pick up his Heisman Trophy, he heard about the life and faith of this kid and 24 hours later presented a speech at the kids’ memorial. Unbelievable.
• Did you also know that Tebow wears a Bible verse under his eyes each game? Google has a site which monitors Trends – the top search results of each day on Google. Every week, the Bible verse that Tebow displays becomes the top search result on the next days Google Trend. The kid unashamedly represents Jesus Christ to the public. He’s taken some hits, but like it says in Scripture – you can’t argue with a guy who practices what he preaches.
• If you dig Christian music, the new CD by Fee is worth the price tag attached to it. When you listen, be careful who’s looking – you might get caught dancing, singing along in worship, and for you ladies – you might get caught looking at the picture of this young stallion.
• I realized that blogging has the potential of getting into serious trouble. While checking one of my favorite blogs, from Perry Noble, I caught myself involved in some church issues they were having. One dude, who apparently goes to Pastor Perry’s church, is anti-Perry (weird, right?). So this dude slanders Perry on his blog. In response a pastor from Perry’s church decides to start a blog to rip on this other dude. It created such a controversy that the pastor dude got fired. Crazy! It made me realize the power of the blog. So I’ve made a pact with myself of things I will not do on my bog: rip on people I don’t like | sell ads | write short essays and call them a blog post | talk about art movements of centuries past

WMWJD? What Ministry Would Jesus Do?

This is straight Christian Ministry 101 material. And I’m just now laying it down. In ministry I’ve often asked myself “how would Jesus lead this ministry?” I’ve learned great things from the Purpose Driven Youth Ministry model, as well from Sonlife, but I enjoy it so much more when God’s Word teaches me something new. I’m a sucker for Jesus.
Today I got schooled by the New Testament writer John. You’re going to want to read this passage before you read further. No really, read these few verses. Then buckle up. And if your in ministry – it’d be a shame if you didn’t ask yourself the same question.

I have to imagine that if I were making truly devoted followers of Christ that it would cause some to leave the ministry. To be a disciple means to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Christ. Sounds like a pretty big commitment; one not easily made. Meanwhile, students don’t seem to have any trouble feeling at ease in the ministry I lead.

Francis Chan once remarked that if Jesus pastored a church in his same city, that Francis’ would be bigger. His reasoning – he doesn’t demand what Christ demands. But it’s a gutsy move. Francis knows it. I know it. Most of my youth pastor friends do too. Not sure if it’s true for everyone but in my cultural context to demand what Jesus demands could be seen as ministry suicide. In a more polite term, Francis said that making such a move would “leave the church thinking he’d gone overboard.”

I know the Bible verses, the ones that talk about the narrow road. The ones that say that people will say “Lord, Lord…” and yet won’t enter the heavenly kingdom. I’ve studied Luke 9:23, the Parable of the Sower, and now John 6. By all means I desire to call my students to the same commitment Jesus did. Yet sadly I feel like doing so would be filling out my own pink slip. Setting the bar that high will certainly result in smaller numbers – at least for awhile. That’s Jesus tested, Jesus approved – he had a whole band of brothers leave him. “Who can accept such hard teaching?”

What’s stopping me? Myself most of all. Sure I’m afraid of parental reaction and job security. But the hump I have to get over is me. I believe these are the things I have to do to find myself closing in on Jesus style disciple-making…

I cannot hinder the Holy Spirit. I have to piggy-back on what He desires for our ministry.That begins with prayer. I need to pray, our students need to pray, our ministry supporters need to pray.

My volunteer leaders must be on board. As Jesus set the standard that causes some disciples to leave – he turned to his apostles and said “You do not want to leave too, do you?” I need my crew just like Jesus needed his twelve.

I must communicate the plan well. Oh wait…I need to have a plan…right. Then do well to communicate that – up, down, left, and right.

I need to be convinced that it’s worth shedding ‘dead’ weight in order to see the power of God unleashed in students who desire to be alive.