tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12388886364855627142024-02-07T18:17:45.040-08:00Rock Point BlogHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-84798153720872487082010-04-06T12:22:00.000-07:002010-04-06T12:52:32.525-07:00Easter Celebration!After the dust has settled at our Easter Celebration at Rock Point, I wanted to give you all a quick snapshot as to what all occurred on this incredible day. Easter is the greatest day of the year for followers of Christ and it was awesome to be able to celebrate that day with so many at Rock Point. Our God is so good!<br /><br />* First of all, we could not have done this without our amazing volunteers. You guys continue to amaze me. From the time people pull into the parking lot until they leave, you guys strive to create excellent and irresistible environments for them. On Sunday, the atmosphere was electric and children, teenagers and adults of all ages were all engaged. It was fun to be a part of! Thank you all SO MUCH!<br /><br />* Sunday we had our highest attendance ever at Rock Point. We are the first ones to admit that numbers aren't everything, (as life change isn't about how many people are sitting in the seats), but you have to be excited about almost 100 children and 440 adults and teenagers on Easter Sunday. I wholeheartedly believe in what we are doing to create environments to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and we got to do this with over 500 people Sunday. That's exciting stuff!<br /><br />* At the conclusion of the service we gave anyone who wanted to, an opportunity to trust Christ as their Savior. I witnessed from the front multiple hands go up in acknowledgment of giving their lives to Christ. What a special Easter for those people! I'm praying for them and their new found relationship with Christ. I hope you will do the same.<br /><br />I am committed that Rock Point will not be just an Easter destination for some people. I desire for this to be a <span style="font-style:italic;">weekly</span> destination for people from all over Chattanooga each and every Sunday. I believe that our relationship with Christ should be contagious and church on Sunday is a place that also should be contagious. I hope and pray that you will join me on this mission...to capture this vision...and be a church for EVERYBODY!<br /><br />FYI - We've got an incredible new series coming up called, "Losing Your Religion". It begins this Sunday. Know someone who might have had "religion" at one point but gave it up because it failed them...or maybe never gave it a shot because "religion" seemed to be filled with too many holes? Maybe this describes you. In this series we are going to take a look at the significant difference in a "religion" and a "relationship" with Christ. It's VASTLY different. We hope you will join us for this series and invite some folks whom you believe would benefit from a series like this.<br /><br />Can't wait to see you Sunday!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-34600989708166795352010-03-01T06:23:00.000-08:002010-03-03T06:57:16.797-08:00Feb 28 - 2010Sunday at Rock Point was a very LONG day but an incredibly rewarding one. We began a new series called, "Staying in Love" where Andy Stanley discusses what it means to stay in love. Falling in love is easy...STAYING in love is a totally different deal. We kicked off with "Faithfully" by Journey (yes, the Journey hit from 1983). Crazy in that I was talking with a teenager after the service and told them that this song was written way before they were even born...and their response was, "Man, I love that song!" That's right...a timeless hit. <br /><br />We ended the day with ELEVATE - A Night of Worship. The design of this night was simple...<span style="font-style:italic;">elevate</span> God for who He is and what He has done in our lives. Rock Point is a church that unashamedly focuses on connecting with those outside the walls of our churches. We desire to be a church for <span style="font-style:italic;">everybody</span>, and that includes those who are sleeping in or sitting on their couches on Sunday morning. (Honestly, the group that is often forgotten in most churches). But ELEVATE is a little different for us. It's a time for those who call themselves followers of Jesus to come together and remember Who it is that gives us life. <br /><br />I know for me personally, this recharged my batteries...but they were recharged to accomplish God's mission for our church. Our video crew (led by Matt Stevens) put together this nifty little video to help remind us about ultimately what we are about. To share the incredible love relationship we have with our Savior with those we come in contact with every day. If you missed the video last night, here it is.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="300"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=9764272&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=9764272&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="300"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/9764272">Vision Video 2010</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2209631">Matthew Stevens</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><br /><br />God loves us...He loves Chattanooga...His son died for this city. There are countless people who will not dawn the doorsteps of a church unless someone reaches out to them. Unless there is a church that welcomes them.<br /><br />I love creating a church for them. How about you?<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-73275992608277039282010-02-22T10:15:00.000-08:002010-02-22T12:03:44.136-08:00Conclusion of Balanced<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wrXaKdSiXCu_dFZjy-hmf0bRBi3tyYRtnArq70-mKVU34-_bXF-v5Yi5AmKy0AyimXvmcV4JVWQtW32b7RQ2H8bJKBBTeXPCLK_Qv7BuIU7oTzaRGsciZTvxpgCld9dlBj_qKyAx1gM/s1600-h/balanced2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wrXaKdSiXCu_dFZjy-hmf0bRBi3tyYRtnArq70-mKVU34-_bXF-v5Yi5AmKy0AyimXvmcV4JVWQtW32b7RQ2H8bJKBBTeXPCLK_Qv7BuIU7oTzaRGsciZTvxpgCld9dlBj_qKyAx1gM/s320/balanced2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441138701244667346" /></a><br />This past Sunday we wrapped up our latest series at Rock Point, BALANCED. In this series we have been taking a look at our personal finances and determining whether or not we truly are "balanced" with our books. I have to be honest...when we looked at doing a 6 week series on money, I got very nervous. Many people associate money and the church in a corrupt way. Just recently I have seen 2 reports of ministries/ministers who have exploited others for their own personal gain. So, as we moved forward with this series I was a little reluctant to "promote" the topic as I wasn't sure how it would be perceived. Wow! Was I wrong how it would be taken.<br /><br />During the past 6 weeks we have heard incredible reports of people who have begun to get their financial lives in order and others who have realized that their money isn't just for them. They have really begun to understand, "Where your treasure is, there is your heart also." That God is the true owner of everything and he has just given us what we have as a "steward". That will really change your perspective on stuff.<br /><br />This past week (the conclusion) was incredible as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Stanley">Andy</a> spoke about 3 areas where our money should go. He listed them in this order:<br /><br />1. Give (to further God's Kingdom)<br />2. Save (for the future)<br />3. Spend (with what God has blessed us with)<br /><br />Basically, we should give off the top for God's work not with what is left over. Now, we can discuss and debate all day about whether that should be a percentage for the local church...or parachurch organizations...or supporting missionaries. That's really not the point. The point is, most often we have reversed the order. We often put our immediate needs/wants first, followed by building our own kingdom and then finally giving to God's work what we have left over, (which usually is very little). It was very eye opening as many in the audience could relate with the reversal of this order and why it important for us to put them in the right order. I really can't do it justice in a blog, so here is the <a href="http://www.rockpointcc.org/listen.asp">link</a> if you want to catch any previous sermons in this series. I really believe you will be glad you did.<br /><br />Although the series is over for BALANCED, we have a lot of work to do. Many of us need to continue working on our financial "books" so that we get out of debt and are no longer "the slave to the lender". Many of us need to reprioritize where our money is going, while others need to find a percentage to give outside of themselves. This is an issue we all face...have faced...or will face at some point. <br /><br />So...where does your money go? Take a look at your recent bank statement. It tells a lot about what we prioritize. <br /><br />For more helps with the BALANCED series, <a href="http://www.northpoint.org/balanced">click here</a>.<br /><br />I hope you all have a great week and don't forget our new series beginning this Sunday, February 28th. - STAYING IN LOVE<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-57327058577017487872010-02-10T06:25:00.000-08:002010-02-10T08:10:27.682-08:00Stories of Life ChangeThis past Sunday was an incredible experience as we witnessed the baptism of 4 individuals and got to hear their stories of life change through a relationship with Christ. They were so genuine and heartfelt. There is no better way at Rock Point to share the new life that comes through a relationship with Jesus Christ than through baptism. I was honored to be able to share this experience with these individuals as well as the opportunity to baptize them. <br /><br />If you missed this past Sunday, here is a video of one. You might need a full box of kleenex for this one...<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mh4dywgAa7Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mh4dywgAa7Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />Wow. If you are wondering if this guy is normally emotional and "soft" the answer is NO! Adam is your proto-typical tough guy who has just met his Savior face to face and He has changed his life. These emotions he couldn't hold back. It was incredibly moving for me. <br /><br />Also, a huge thank you to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqra6qdJFfk&feature=related">Shelley</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hqra6qdJFfk&feature=related">Tyler</a>, and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7ZSIk8UhIQ&feature=related">Andria</a>. It was so wonderful to be able to baptize a Mom and her 2 kids on the same morning! Thank you for your stories and for your hearts.<br /><br />As you watch these videos, enjoy their stories...but more importantly...enjoy the God of their stories. He so much wants to have this kind of relationship with you.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-76314327054836520152010-02-03T06:21:00.000-08:002010-02-03T06:54:41.042-08:00PerspectiveLast night I received a call about a friend whose father was on his way to the Hospital. As I got off the phone I called people, sent text messages and emails to friends to ask them to pray. Those people in turn asked others to pray. My son even prayed while praying for our meal at dinner time. I felt confident that we had a small army of people praying and that everything would be OK.<br /><br />An hour later I received a text that he was gone. <br /><br />All of a sudden I was flooded with emotions. One because I was taken back to 2006 when I lost my father suddenly. The story was eerily similar. We were all praying for Dad to come out OK and the doctors would know what to do. But then I got the call. Dad was gone. My heart went out to my friend because I personally knew his pain. <br /><br />But I also felt this sudden tension to ask the question, "God, why didn't you take care of that situation? Didn't you hear your people calling to you, asking you to do this one thing for us?" I felt this all night long. I knew the right answers but the right answers don't always take away emotions and pain. I know my friend hurts. I know that his pain can be eased but not removed. So, I asked one simple question, "Why?" I didn't see a burning bush or God writing across the sky, but I was reminded of a few things about God and us.<br /><br />* God has a plan that I don't always see. His ways are not my ways.<br />* He is the only one who can truly comfort and ease our suffering.<br />* He longs to see His children bear one anothers burdens. <br />* Prayer isn't a magic formula to bend God's arm but to line my heart with His heart.<br /><br />I don't know why God allowed my friend's father to pass away last night. But I do know that He was and is present. Sometimes I find myself asking the wrong questions in times of trouble and despair. A friend once told me, "Peace is not the absence of chaos or trouble but the presence of God in the midst of that chaos." <br /><br />Today my prayer is that my friend knows the peace of God. That's really all I can pray for.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-42206856679396508732010-01-25T10:57:00.000-08:002010-01-25T12:08:19.885-08:00BALANCED<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAjRIvnwbXeAPNn4yLyjS-T6U2KcsehdnRpWxRjbam6ZTzmOEjxuYEsfuHGBrBEbGKfZqARLdG3DD7XPkFvRLLEsDShyphenhyphenPI5kxfe2eJ_5XhtAnUW7UEg-7I3ilxgIAow5AOdTE2lfKPFc/s1600-h/balanced.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAjRIvnwbXeAPNn4yLyjS-T6U2KcsehdnRpWxRjbam6ZTzmOEjxuYEsfuHGBrBEbGKfZqARLdG3DD7XPkFvRLLEsDShyphenhyphenPI5kxfe2eJ_5XhtAnUW7UEg-7I3ilxgIAow5AOdTE2lfKPFc/s320/balanced.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430770806371596546" /></a><br />The past 3 weeks we have been in a series called BALANCED. In this series we are discussing the importance of having a financially balanced life. A realization that all we have is from God and we should treat it as such. We don't have money or stuff just to blow it on ourselves but to USE it wisely. When we utilize our money wisely we avoid the stress that comes with lack of margin, we experience freedom from the shackles of consumer debt, and we have greater opportunity to live generously. Sounds like a great place to be...and it is!!<br /><br />Money is important to God. How do I know this? Well, Jesus (God in the flesh), spoke about money more than Heaven & Hell combined. He knows the power of it...for good...and for evil. I should say that God is more interested in how we HANDLE our money than the actual money itself. Because "where our treasure is, our heart follows". (Matt. 6:21) He's concerned with how we spend it...how we save it...how we waste it...and how we share it. It's a big deal to Him and hopefully it is a big deal to us!<br /><br />So if you have missed out on the past couple of weeks, check them out <a href="http://www.rockpointcc.org/listen.asp">here</a>. And if you are in Chattanooga this Sunday, join us for a brand new sermon for a brand new topic for many of us...generosity. <br /><br />Speaking of generosity, 2 weeks ago the people of Rock Point helped raise over $1,800 to send to Haiti. Thank you for being so generous!<br /><br />See You Sunday<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-61223727799305201452009-12-01T11:05:00.000-08:002009-12-01T11:36:04.624-08:00Operation Christmas Child<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoicNFX6PN5iJWM8FXYKJM8yx2DY_CTSxy8CjubBVd28MEzwgEe1j5NTf6vR5-rXmbgk9CDWc2HksAiHzvrl6iXd-EVGAUuenGARsEmAAmuUczw71NyFAoQ2u5PGZ9pJKTZ5_3KKpxnE/s1600/operation+christmas+child"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoicNFX6PN5iJWM8FXYKJM8yx2DY_CTSxy8CjubBVd28MEzwgEe1j5NTf6vR5-rXmbgk9CDWc2HksAiHzvrl6iXd-EVGAUuenGARsEmAAmuUczw71NyFAoQ2u5PGZ9pJKTZ5_3KKpxnE/s320/operation+christmas+child" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410349454741521474" /></a><br />OK, so it's been a while since my last post. The past couple of months have been a little crazy. But this one is LONG overdue! There are some great things going on at Rock Point and over the next few days I'm going to be highlighting some of them.<br /><br />I would like to start out with our UpStreet Kids (K-5th grade). First of all, 2 weeks ago we had our largest attendance in UpStreet ever!! I was fortunate to be in there during their time together and the feel of the room was incredible. I want to personally thank our volunteers and staff who make that environment fun and engaging for kids each week. It's fun to see kids WANT to be at church. (I know I didn't when I was a kid).<br /><br />Also, I was proud of our kids for their contribution to Operation Christmas Child. Each child was asked to put together a box for another child who was less fortunate. It's through <a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/">Samaritan's Purse</a>, an incredible organization that helps those who are in need all over the world. I was told by our staff that they were hoping for 25 boxes from our kids...which would have been a great number to send. But when the dust settled, our kids ended up bringing 49 boxes to ship off!! That is awesome! Way to go UpStreet Kids! I love seeing God using kids for His work. Looks like they could teach us adults a few things.<br /><br />Look for a post later on about a few who got to share their life stories recently at Rock Point and other cool stuff that God is doing...<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-83911403045199640382009-10-14T06:13:00.000-07:002009-10-14T06:29:11.018-07:00ELEVATE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd47b6oQlRUQSFfHJEXUBqCXp8vhP0PWHYJPll7nRPN1OxUiBdrPAfuq_xhPhyYVHY39Agn8CSC5gsqDgGv6ouhONcODyqDyN71PdUyPeXPepkASNH2tmnLBffzLSjEWgosqja4xyggiM/s1600-h/elevate.facebook.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd47b6oQlRUQSFfHJEXUBqCXp8vhP0PWHYJPll7nRPN1OxUiBdrPAfuq_xhPhyYVHY39Agn8CSC5gsqDgGv6ouhONcODyqDyN71PdUyPeXPepkASNH2tmnLBffzLSjEWgosqja4xyggiM/s320/elevate.facebook.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392446639071387154" /></a><br />This past Sunday evening at Rock Point we had ELEVATE - a Night of Worship. This evening was an incredible time of worship with our band...an opportunity for those who wanted to experience communion...and a time of corporate prayer for what God is doing in this world, this country and in Chattanooga. I was blown away with the attendance on a Sunday evening as over 200 people came to worship the God of the Universe and celebrate who He is and what He has done in our lives and in this this world. The worship was electric...the communion was moving...and the prayer time inspiring...at least for me. <br /><br />Also, our Nexus (college) and Fusion (single adults) groups had outings surrounding the evening and by all accounts they were wildly successful! Great turnout and lots of new people. Just our college and single adult crowds had over 60 people present at ELEVATE! <br /><br />So, for all of those who helped make this night possible...thank you! We had staff and volunteers pull of a very full day to create this environment and I am so grateful for them. I am blessed to be the pastor at Rock Point and I am so excited to see what God is going to do through this church in Chattanooga!!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-11507258292537571152009-09-30T06:22:00.000-07:002009-09-30T06:48:33.187-07:00Catching Up...OK, so it has been a few weeks since my last blog post. Please forgive me. But God is doing some great stuff here at Rock Point and I don't want to leave everyone hanging. Since there is a lot to catchup on...I'll cut the chase and get rolling. <br /><br />* Last week I had the opportunity of visiting with a church in Azua, Dominican Republic with Mark & Beth Newsome. The intent of the trip was to discuss how we might be able to partner with a church in the D.R. in creating a relevant church there. We had some great conversations with the church leadership and had the opportunity to talk pretty candidly about leading a church that desires to reach people instead of keep people. Very excited about the potential future here. Will keep everyone posted as to how things progress. Oh, yeah...the people in Azua are AMAZING! Some of the kindest people I have ever met. I was blessed to be able to spend the week with them.<br /><br />* This past Sunday at Rock Point was a very memorable one...(OK, so that is like the 3rd time I have used that sentence this year alone). But when it's true, I can't help but say it! In the sermon, Jeff Henderson spoke about "coming out of the shadows and into the light" with areas in our lives that keep us from truly being all that God desires for us to be. At the conclusion of the service we gave people an opportunity to respond on the spot to the message. Several people in both services were bold enough to come down during the closing song to kneel and pray. Very moving for me to watch. Thanks to Jeff and our production team for helping to create that type of atmosphere.<br /><br />* OK, so this isn't going on right now...but it will be in 2 weeks. We have been planning our second "Elevate - a Night of Worship", and I am so excited about this night. We have incredible worship leaders for this night and also we will be worshipping through prayer and sharing of the Lord's Supper together. So, for a shameless plug...You want to be at Rock Point on October 11th at 6pm! Can't wait to see you there.<br /><br />Well, that's it for now. Make sure you join us for the conclusion of Illusions this Sunday at Rock Point. 10am & 11:30am are the service times.<br /><br />See you Sunday.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-61933316281310194422009-09-09T07:38:00.000-07:002009-09-09T08:29:44.201-07:00Vacation...Last week I had the privilege of taking my family away for a week to the beach for vacation. It was a much needed rest for us and a wonderful break. If you don't like being around a lot of people I highly recommend going the week before Labor Day. It was a ghost town.<br /><br />Had a lot of time to think...process...pray. It's amazing what God can do in your life when you stop and rest and allow him to speak to you. One day I actually floated out on a raft for about an hour in the ocean (the kids thought Daddy was headed to Mexico). It was one of the best prayer times I have had in a while. I know...I wasn't in a "prayer closet", but it still rocked.<br /><br />Anyway, thought I would share a few of the reflections I had while I was down there. <br /><br />* When God speaks of a day of rest and worship...He means it. Maybe we need to listen to Him more about REALLY stopping each week to allow our bodies, minds and spirits to be rested and refreshed. <br /><br />* Stress can ruin you. It's amazing how NICE we all can be by removing a little stress from our lives. Get rid of the stress and "cast all of our cares on HIM". He's man enough to handle them! It will change your life.<br /><br />* Family time is a lost art. Sure, we can justify our crazy schedules with "it's not quantity time but quality time". Although there is a degree of truth to this, extended time with your spouse and children can not be replaced with a forced dinner together or a quick few minutes in the car on the way to school. IF YOU ARE A PARENT...FIND TIME TO BE WITH YOUR KIDS. IF YOU ARE MARRIED...FIND TIME TO BE WITH YOUR SPOUSE. Your family is the greatest gift God has given you in this world. Value it.<br /><br />* God created a beautiful world. Still can't figure out how some people can think this thing called the world all happened by "accident".<br /><br />* I love my church! I know because I am the pastor I am supposed to say this, but it's so true. I missed the people...the worship...the opportunity of seeing guests come in. I love the opportunity to create a church where unchurched people want to come. It's such a challenge...but so rewarding!<br /><br />So, there they are. My random thoughts from vacation. <br /><br />Well, that's it for now. Have a great week and if you are in Chattanooga, come join us for the conclusion of "5 Things God Uses to Grow Your Faith" this Sunday. You won't regret it!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-22847917470713116732009-08-20T06:21:00.001-07:002009-08-20T07:56:10.807-07:00Volunteers...WE LOVE YOU!Now I know we are in Tennessee and it's easy to associate the words "VOLUNTEERS" with that team up in Knoxville. As much as I know some of you would like for this to be the case, that's not who I'm speaking of. I'm talking about the amazing volunteers who jump in to make Rock Point happen every week. You are the backbone of this church. Between setting up (which is very physically taxing)...to welcoming people with a smile at the door...to leading a small group of children or students...to setting up that entire stage (that's right, when we arrive on Sunday morning that stage is bare)...our volunteer teams continually amaze me. Serving is not easy. It does take sacrifice because you are giving up time and energy to make this happen. But you all have caught the vision of this church and realized that creating a church where unchurched people would want to go is hard work...but so worth it. I realize that you don't do it for the pats on the back and the hugs...but I wanted to give you one anyway. So here it is...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdx3JSzzfQKaRxN1SzgxcxfGX8npskyblovMz2_ZDJnwVmuL5or0eNLUJPeHdTnjsdhyva5vKfzrW9RAJiHGlCU4vbD5ajx0sFPNeMncZ23XKvo1TGVf-huW0OTUc5Du1twyQA39o2S9w/s1600-h/2861882.png"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdx3JSzzfQKaRxN1SzgxcxfGX8npskyblovMz2_ZDJnwVmuL5or0eNLUJPeHdTnjsdhyva5vKfzrW9RAJiHGlCU4vbD5ajx0sFPNeMncZ23XKvo1TGVf-huW0OTUc5Du1twyQA39o2S9w/s320/2861882.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372040713629973634" /></a><br /><br />Volunteers at Rock Point...you are appreciated and loved! Thank you for all you do and continue to do. <br /><br />If you would be interested in joining one of these incredible teams at Rock Point, head to our <a href="http://www.rockpointcc.org/volunteer.asp">volunteer page</a> on our website to express your interest. A staff member will be with you soon thereafter!<br /><br />Have a great weekend and we'll see you Sunday!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-85876318623992650402009-08-12T08:40:00.000-07:002009-08-12T08:55:13.725-07:00North Point Online<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVy7smBZQzEsKIglb5GpUs4O6tjJ2GzUp-FggtwOFMbhTFUPLzwGKqdFrv5Uzw24-kU0sNxOUHKnDuelEyJx95JdDI3zNK_bfRCCbqdW_wW28nZgYnNrdQ1uf6dGM_xFyiFlAVbWaTms/s1600-h/nponline_250x250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVy7smBZQzEsKIglb5GpUs4O6tjJ2GzUp-FggtwOFMbhTFUPLzwGKqdFrv5Uzw24-kU0sNxOUHKnDuelEyJx95JdDI3zNK_bfRCCbqdW_wW28nZgYnNrdQ1uf6dGM_xFyiFlAVbWaTms/s320/nponline_250x250.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369106080642161810" border="0" /></a><br />OK, so long time since my last post. Sorry about that. Lots of great stuff happening at RPCC the past couple of weeks and has kept me busy. Wow...I'm so blessed to be the Lead Pastor here. More on that later...<br /><br />For now, I'm going to express my absolute joy about a very cool thing happening with North Point Ministries. As many of you know, we are a part of the "North Point Network" being a strategic partner. This is exciting for us as we not only get to experience great resources from North Point but to know we are part of something greater than just Rock Point in Chattanooga. There is a movement amongst churches all over the country who desire to create a church "where unchurched people would want to attend." We can learn from each other as well as celebrate with each other. So...onto the REALLY cool part of this.<br /><br />Beginning this coming Sunday, August 16, North Point Ministries is launching "North Point Online". This will be live streaming of the evening service at Buckhead Church in Atlanta, GA. The beauty of this is that people from all over the country...even the world...can experience a relevant church experience from their computer screen. I could go on and on and describe what this will be like, but you just have to experience yourself.<br /><br />Check out the website here: http://northpointonline.tv/<br />They also have a facebook fan page with updates: http://www.facebook.com/northpointonline<br />(I just became fan 3,400)<br /><br />So get online this Sunday evening and check it out.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-18122230616928901392009-08-11T05:15:00.001-07:002009-08-13T09:13:22.949-07:00Baptism & FootballThis past Sunday was a memorable one at Rock Point. To begin with, we were fortunate to have the entire UTC Football Team join us for our 10am service. It definitely added to the "size" of the service. I loved seeing those guys there and thanks to the FCA guys for helping us get this together. It was a real treat seeing them filling up (literally) the first 3 rows.<br /><br />Following that we experienced our first live baptisms at Rock Point. If you weren't there, you really missed out on a special moment as each of those baptized videoed their story and we were able to show that before the actual baptism. Fortunately, with the magic of technology and the internet, we're able to show you one of those stories.<br /><br />Here is the story of Garry Rodgers and his baptism. (Please excuse the focus on Garry at the beginning and the audio following. This was our first time attempting live baptisms and we had a few "hurdles").<br /><br /><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3Pd4DzwcOaQ&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3Pd4DzwcOaQ&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /><br />What a story...what a privilege to experience that with Garry. Lauren his wife and Jolynn Linder were the others baptized and we'll post those later.<br /><br />Thanks to all who helped make this past Sunday possible. God is doing great things at Rock Point and I am blessed to be a part of it.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-55812020716684153252009-06-30T06:42:00.001-07:002009-07-01T10:50:29.440-07:00Going Global<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12A_8YNB1xfAVBlk5P0PtEESi1KwKrqXvn3ZjHFqqAHTRMEecyBjcHTqN3bPxrCcmEh6srsv_Dy5KrqA23DADy0LmPW5no3VVMZ0TyjFpRrBettPgjsJYRwtqx-0pa8vc9Gsjqeu5kVk/s1600-h/going_global_front.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12A_8YNB1xfAVBlk5P0PtEESi1KwKrqXvn3ZjHFqqAHTRMEecyBjcHTqN3bPxrCcmEh6srsv_Dy5KrqA23DADy0LmPW5no3VVMZ0TyjFpRrBettPgjsJYRwtqx-0pa8vc9Gsjqeu5kVk/s320/going_global_front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353550197774769762" border="0" /></a><br />This past Sunday was a very memorable service for me at RPCC. We announced our relationship that we are beginning with <a href="http://www.compassion.com/default.htm">Compassion International</a> and had over 20 children sponsored that day. What an awesome thing to see with God's people stepping up to help others in need, even when they are in another part of the world. Kevin Meyers from Compassion dropped by for an interview and helped us understand what Compassion International is doing around the world.<br /><br />I am so excited about this partnership with Compassion as we will not only be able to sponsor children from here in the states but we will be able to take trips to Lima, Peru to assist with what Compassion is doing there. The mission of Compassion is to "release children from poverty in Jesus' name". Very simple mission, but very impactful organization. After witnessing first hand what is taking place through Compassion in Lima, I am thrilled to be able to partner with them in not only assisting children with physical poverty, but spiritual, economic and social poverty as well.<br /><br />Thanks to all those who agreed to sponsor children this past Sunday. If you weren't able to come by the table Sunday and are interested in sponsoring a child, you can either drop by the Compassion table this week at Rock Point or go to our <a href="http://www.rockpointcc.org/">website</a> to pick up a sponsor packet.<br /><br />Can't wait to see you all this Sunday at Rock Point.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-58324868174514474712009-06-11T06:11:00.000-07:002009-06-11T07:31:44.857-07:00Random thoughts...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSMuvWORDdwjYuFzwMFBeOy6sG_4aTrWTGUiK0WTP4Yx5d9_cDiC17tXm3xBzzUWXR5_zGymNwtXrLU-bQLmbrgjIAZEljhYdPC57UNVcInFK_gjMoPaqcZwCaricLtFMKLcOrsPR5ww/s1600-h/question_mark.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSMuvWORDdwjYuFzwMFBeOy6sG_4aTrWTGUiK0WTP4Yx5d9_cDiC17tXm3xBzzUWXR5_zGymNwtXrLU-bQLmbrgjIAZEljhYdPC57UNVcInFK_gjMoPaqcZwCaricLtFMKLcOrsPR5ww/s200/question_mark.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346063217787788946" border="0" /></a><br />Do you every have random thoughts that go through your mind? I know I do. Sometimes these make sense, but other times, it might just mean that the way the mind that is sending the messages is a little off. (See, that doesn't even make sense)<br /><br />I've been thinking about the following things here and there....off and on. Let me know your thoughts.<br /><br />* Why does the church have the best message in the world, but often times we present it in the worst possible way?<br /><br />* As a Christian, is it more important to be "in the world" or "not of it".<br /><br />* Why does the culture in America get a bad rap but culture is embraced in other parts of the world with the intent of "reaching the lost"?<br /><br />* Why is it so easy for us to spend over 30 hours a week watching TV but so hard to give 1 hour a week to serving at your church?<br /><br />* If Jesus was so concerned with the needs of others...why is it so often that we want our needs addressed first and then we'll worry about "them"?<br /><br />These are just observations that I have been making over the past month or so. Not jabs...not aimed at any religious group or person...just general thoughts about the church today. Been in church work for a long time...plenty of time to build up some questions. What are yours? Are you thinking about God's Kingdom work here? I hope so.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-83406697488302187592009-06-04T06:23:00.000-07:002009-06-04T06:49:26.054-07:00TEXTingOK, so most of you when you read this post title, you thought of texting via your phone or handheld device. But I'm using this phrase in conjunction with our series currently going on at Rock Point. The series is called TEXT and we're talking about diving into the <span style="font-style: italic;">TEXT</span> that God has given us...His Word...the Bible. I personally believe that the Bible is not just a compilation of a lot great writings from a lot of great people. I believe that it is God's written word for us...even thousands of years after it was penned. It is incredibly rich with wisdom...poetry...drama...redemption...love...etc. TEXTing in this context means to read the text...the Bible...which doesn't always mean you totally understand it. Anything that has ever stretched me or I have grown after reading, was not completely comprehendible the first time I read it. But it was so worth it when I immersed myself into it.<br /><br />This book...the Bible...is alive. It will change you if you read it. So how about it? <br />If you choose this challenge, let me give you a few places to start.<br /><br />Step #1 - Get a Bible. I recommend something that is readable in our language today. I prefer the NIV version, but there are a lot of great translations. Yeah, the "thees and thous" from the KJV are very poetic, but I don't know how many of my friends speak like that today. (FYI - that version is a translation as well.)<br /><br />Step #2 - Pick a time and place. Just like reading a good book, it's probably not the best idea to try and read the Bible with a lot of distractions. <br /><br />Step #3 - Read it. Below are a weeks worth of reading if that helps you know where to start. All Bibles have a place in the front which helps you know where the individual books are found. (Ex. Matthew, Isaiah, Psalms, etc) Use this. It will help you if you need it.<br /><br />Monday: Psalm 1<br /><br />Tuesday: Psalm 119:9-16<br /><br />Wednesday: Psalm 119:33-37<br /><br />Thursday: Psalm 119:97-104<br /><br />Friday: Proverbs 2:1-6<br /><br />That's pretty much it! Now you can take this as deep as you want to, but for those who have never even given the TEXT a try, this will help you get started. <br /><br />So pick it up...read it...you won't regret it!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-47144415203936693252009-05-28T12:50:00.000-07:002009-05-28T13:01:32.231-07:00Stories of Life Change...I love hearing stories of life change. I'm not talking about winning the lottery or finding your "soul mate". I'm talking real life change by having a relationship with your Heavenly Father through Christ. Jesus promised abundant life and it's for real. I love hearing people who were far away from God and now are walking with Him...not living perfect...but trusting in Him. Wow!<br /><br />In fact, down the hall from where I am sitting, we are filming 3 stories of those who have experienced this new life in Christ. We'll be showing these before they get baptized at Rock Point in a few weeks. For us baptism isn't just something you do in church, it is really celebrating what God has done on the inside of us through an external act. So we want to give those who are being baptized the opportunity to share their story with others. It's pretty cool!<br /><br />Isn't that really what it's all about? Sharing our story. I'm so glad we're doing this. Can't wait to see and hear their stories!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-67037591371841971362009-05-19T11:49:00.001-07:002009-05-20T07:04:17.071-07:00Summer at Rock Point<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7idpkD98rREb6ryNMWZQ28gx_1-jl_XPKxnBm6J5iPOLMjyDibeqxUn4Gb03OhwK1M5QBOU_wn69rox6JYcfjcXaj6h-wHPNsgf6DNFZ9FgrsopOd2LaThl4RaOiz-KzsD_eCUE5ZU7Q/s1600-h/happysummer1ani.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7idpkD98rREb6ryNMWZQ28gx_1-jl_XPKxnBm6J5iPOLMjyDibeqxUn4Gb03OhwK1M5QBOU_wn69rox6JYcfjcXaj6h-wHPNsgf6DNFZ9FgrsopOd2LaThl4RaOiz-KzsD_eCUE5ZU7Q/s320/happysummer1ani.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337906515648154738" border="0" /></a><br />Wow. Just got finished working on the summer schedule at Rock Point and I am getting extremely excited! Here's why:<br /><br />* Memorial Day weekend is when Louie Giglio wraps up the series, "Home Free, Even Me". If you have ever wondered what God's grace really is all about...you will be there for this!<br /><br />* We start off the Summer with the series, "Text" where we will take a close look at the significance of the Scriptures in our lives and how to read and apply it. Very cool approach to an extremely important aspect of our Spiritual Growth.<br /><br />* We will have a Sunday in late June where we will be discussing what Rock Point is doing as it pertains to impacting the world the world for Christ globally. God has blessed us...let's bless others!<br /><br />* We are working on a cool environment for the Rock Point attenders to invest and invite outside of Sunday morning. More info on that later.<br /><br />* We will be combining both of our services for 1 at 10:30am this Summer. The cool thing about that is the crowd that will be combined with both services together. Should create a really cool vibe in the room for the summer.<br /><br />Keep checking the bulletin on Sunday as well as the website at rockpointcc.org for more details throughout the summer.<br /><br />Can't wait to see you all this Sunday. If you are in town, don't miss out!<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-75531500714860518272009-05-12T13:24:00.000-07:002009-05-12T13:40:50.625-07:00Mother's Day...Together...and Louie...Alright so I need to get a few things off my chest...not really, but it sounded good. Here are some random thoughts I've got going on.<br /><br />* This past Sunday was Mother's Day and I hope all of the Moms out there had a great day. But really shouldn't every day be Mother's Day? I mean, they have the most difficult job in the world and they just keep going and going. I am amazed at how my wife raises our children...I often wonder why God asked ME to be the head of the household. She does a much better job than I do!! So to all of you Moms out there...remind the family that every day should be Mother's Day.<br /><br />* Also, this past Sunday we talked about "Together" at Rock Point. About how important it is for us as a church to work TOGETHER as we move forward in leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. We discussed 4 areas that are critical for this to happen...<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">- Join a Team (find a place to serve)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">- Invite a Friend (think of someone and invite them to church)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">- Give Generously (consider giving of what we </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">do </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">have...that is generosity)</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">- Do Life Together (get in a small group)</span><br /><br />I wholeheartedly believe that as we move forward if we have a deficit in any of these areas we will not be able to be all we could be in creating a church where unchurched people would want to attend. Environments need people to pull it off...we need invitations from individuals to help guests connect...we need to be a generous church (to avoid presenting God's truth "cheaply")...people need to connect with people (because God made us that way).<br /><br />So how about it? Even if you are not a part of Rock Point, are you joining your church with these 4 areas? If not...why not?<br /><br />* Finally, we've got an amazing series from Louie Giglio the next 2 weeks at Rock Point. It's titled, "Home Free, Even Me". If you have never understood what grace is all about, you need to be at Rock Point on May 17 & 24. You won't regret it.<br /><br />Peace.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-17232719182780020482009-05-01T13:18:00.000-07:002009-05-01T13:38:03.151-07:00Invest...Invite...Just Ask...Then What?There is a phrase that we use around Rock Point a lot..."Invest and Invite". This phrase is in relation to every attendee of Rock Point considering someone to <span style="font-weight: bold;">invest</span> in and eventually <span style="font-weight: bold;">invite</span> them to church by <span style="font-weight: bold;">asking</span> them to join them. We believe this is the best way to get people through the doors of church...many for the first time ever. While this seems to be working pretty well...we still seem to be missing something. Let me paint a picture for you:<br /><br />* You invest in a friend from work and are building a relationship with them. You really want to ask them to church with you and finally one day...<br />*...You invite them to church. Not just a casual invite, but a "hey why don't we meet up before church at Starbucks and grab a coffee on our way in!!"<br />* You're rockin' as your friend comes with you and they seem to really have a great time.<br />* You go home and wonder, "I hope they had enjoyed today...maybe they will come back".<br />* Then comes the feeling we all have..."should I leave it up them or invite them back?"<br /><br />This is really a big deal because we don't want to be forceful with our faith, but we don't want to sit on our hands either. What if some of those people are sitting at home and wondering, "I wonder if they will ask me back to their church...I really enjoyed it!"<br />Hmmm....something to think about.<br /><br />I personally think we should follow up with our guests. That follow up being from the one's who invited them. I really don't think they would feel pressured at all, especially if the vibe you got following the service was that they enjoyed themselves. Maybe, it's as simple as making the second "ask" and base what comes next on that response...not on what we think they will say.<br /><br />Maybe we ought to add something on after "invest and invite". Not sure what that cool little catch phrase could be...maybe, "Invest...invite...just ask...<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">get 'em back</span>?"<br /><br />Nah! <br />Any suggestions?<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-47604949843774861522009-04-22T06:09:00.000-07:002009-04-22T06:49:54.776-07:00Birthday CelebrationOn Sunday, April 19th, Rock Point had it's first birthday celebration! "What is a birthday celebration?", you might ask...well, it's a special service we have to baptize the kids at Rock Point who have trusted Jesus with their lives and asked Him to be their Savior. This was a very special one for me as I had the privilege of baptizing our little girl Kailey. I was a blubbering mess, but I got through it...<br /><br />During the service we baptized 6 kids, and really celebrated their new life in Christ! 2 of our UpStreet worship leaders, Matt & Stephanie Rector, led us in worship...we had a prayer time with the kids...and when everything was over we had an awesome "birthday party" celebrating their "new birth". It was a blast. Great job Jared & the chilren's staff in planning this event for everyone.<br /><br />It was such a pleasure to be a part of a cool service like that with our kids and their friends and families. I can't wait 'till the next one!<br /><br />Heath<br /><br />P.S. Check back later as we'll post some picture and video of the event!Heath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-7226146797591693572009-04-13T07:28:00.000-07:002009-04-15T07:47:31.352-07:00Post-Easter notes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnwei5IrgSm4600YEvzKf82dXLX4fTwZtuQfoveSzRjSjg0EJiyIxbhqdCrEbu_alYPAhk5c-mYF-08xFQJtWTWDXr9CTA08Am_hLrxoUmSBNTWKlBDQBDbWo1ot80OLMkInbOoPcDdk/s1600-h/Easter1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnwei5IrgSm4600YEvzKf82dXLX4fTwZtuQfoveSzRjSjg0EJiyIxbhqdCrEbu_alYPAhk5c-mYF-08xFQJtWTWDXr9CTA08Am_hLrxoUmSBNTWKlBDQBDbWo1ot80OLMkInbOoPcDdk/s320/Easter1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324545428357927042" border="0" /></a>INCREDIBLE Day at Rock Point on Easter Sunday!! I have to tell you that I am amazed at our teams and the environments they help create every week. This Sunday they absolutely went over the top to create excellent environments for our guests that were irresistible and...well...just cool! So thank you to all of our staff and volunteers who helped create such a wonderful place on Sunday. After the dust settled we realized that almost 500 people attended Rock Point this past week! God is doing an amazing thing at Rock Point and I am so grateful to be play a small part on this journey!<br /><br />Here is an email I received Sunday afternoon from someone who invited guests with them to Rock Point this past Sunday. This got me pretty excited:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">A family I have been investing in for a few months came to church today. It was he and his wife and 3 children. They were blown away by RPCC and the excellence they experienced...they have been searching for a church home and decided to come today...From Waumba Land to Upstreet to the music to the message they were BLOWN away...I love that I can invest and invite and have confidence in what a great experience those visitors will have.</span><br /><br />So, thank you to all of the volunteers to help create environments where this can happen...thank you to the staff for your countless hours and your leadership...and thank you God for giving us this incredible opportunity of leading people in Chattanooga into a growing relationship with You.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-70684391301235430662009-04-08T07:44:00.000-07:002009-04-08T08:08:47.275-07:00Easter at Rock Point<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIY6-2If-RdJrxAsUvSFrBFY3cejAoKhg9lTzYlNODVU3IgaCQxNzAtnoPpIxwdFACCKmnrLJUPb5BZp0FRE1z9MoRguWpLk8cfT4c0UdhK_KW4DOoVeMO0TY6ThFlKbwbpfA46gSuwI/s1600-h/Easter+09+w-+text.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIY6-2If-RdJrxAsUvSFrBFY3cejAoKhg9lTzYlNODVU3IgaCQxNzAtnoPpIxwdFACCKmnrLJUPb5BZp0FRE1z9MoRguWpLk8cfT4c0UdhK_KW4DOoVeMO0TY6ThFlKbwbpfA46gSuwI/s320/Easter+09+w-+text.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322336121282831266" border="0" /></a>Easter Sunday is one of the saddest, but happiest Holidays. The day is so bitter-sweet. Every year I go through a bevy of emotions. The sadness comes from the simple fact that someone so innocent had to die for someone so guilty. I deserved to die...not Jesus. But the joy comes from knowing that my eternity is settled because of this payment...this gift. So do I mourn or celebrate on this day?<br /><br />I have chosen to celebrate. The reason why is because Jesus did not stay in the grave...He did not turn to dust and whither away. 3 days later, he stepped out of the tomb that he was put in. No, he didn't just fall asleep for a couple of days. He died...and came back from the dead. And today He lives!! Seriously!! Why would he do this? The innocent died so those who were dead might have life. (FYI - that's us).<br /><br />So how about you? Won't you celebrate with me? No...I mean REALLY celebrate?<br /><br />Come join us at Rock Point for our Easter Celebration. I know I can't wait.<br />check out our website at <a href="http://www.rockpointcc.org/">www.rockpointcc.org</a> for times and directions.<br /><br />See you there.<br /><br />HeathHeath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-52503756815867944362009-03-27T14:09:00.000-07:002009-04-01T18:50:29.192-07:00My Peruvian Experience - Part 2Well, it's been almost 3 weeks since I have been back from my trip to Peru and although some of the emotion has worn off, (pretty typical I hear), I still can't get some of the little faces I saw out of my head. There is something about children that naturally touches your heart and these children grabbed mine and haven't let go. As I have been reflecting on the trip, I thought I might put down some of the thoughts I had after returning. Not sure where all of this fits, but sometimes clarity comes out of randomness...<br /><br />* First of all, we were treated like Rock Stars! I'm not sure if it was because we were visitors from America or they saw us as representing all who assist them with their daily necessities. It was absolutely amazing the treatment we received from the children as well as those who worked with the church. I was humbled by this. Pretty big responsibility.<br /><br />* Gifts in this life are not always tangible. I witnessed a mother play peekaboo with her child (an act she apparently did not know how to do with her previous children), and the joy on her face and her child's spoke volumes. She merely enjoyed the presence of this gift (her child) and the child enjoyed the discovery of his mother. I learned from this lady that day.<br /><br />* I need to stop using the word "need" so much...Most often I interchange "want" with "need". Not that wants are all bad either...I just need to be more honest with myself about it. I have witnessed true need and it's not how I use it.<br /><br />Also, I have finally finished a highlight video of the trip. These are the faces I can't get out of my head...and I hope I never do.<br /><br />Heath<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyNSjweH6kwFuYUuN0Mt-X50VFA4sY4Bnm5iqAbKp-uXaAaiG2AHMF5D0CU748jv1s1prsuU0Pn-ywfqEpsMQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Heath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1238888636485562714.post-83755715162373433522009-03-18T06:49:00.000-07:002009-03-18T08:33:33.734-07:00My Peruvian Experience - Part 1<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHPumzNessHOpM0mbCUonfabhjGontwVdBalMV4yF3e7_HUQcqx6_0SSqJDvHa3xPddLow2MrxqYgMzVy7AKPbGFP-lfcSG-TL_tN82u-H_wAJ02s5nL5Lyi38yBz7gfd09ZdH6UzOkY/s1600-h/SMT_6412.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHPumzNessHOpM0mbCUonfabhjGontwVdBalMV4yF3e7_HUQcqx6_0SSqJDvHa3xPddLow2MrxqYgMzVy7AKPbGFP-lfcSG-TL_tN82u-H_wAJ02s5nL5Lyi38yBz7gfd09ZdH6UzOkY/s320/SMT_6412.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314550566915015810" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" >Last week I was blessed with the incredible opportunity of going with Compassion International to Lima, Peru. I have been out of the coun</span><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" >try and have been on Mission Trips before but this trip affected me like no other trip I have ever been on. The poverty that these children and families are in is mind boggling. Dirt floor homes (or shacks), walls made of cardboard, no running water...the list could go on and on. The looks on their faces when they were given pencils or stickers or bubbles brought tears to my eyes. You would have thought they had received a million dollars. On this trip I cried...I laughed...I felt sorrow and my heart rejoiced. </span> <span style="font-family:arial;">I realized that God is not a God of America. Many in our country have categorized Him as being formed in the buckle of the Bible Belt. A child's song came to mind as I walked through the trash filled streets of Lima..."He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." God is doing a great thing in Peru and around the world. I was grateful to have experienced just a small part of that. Thank you to those who prayed for us while we were on this trip. </span> <div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" ><br />I realize that pictures speak a thousand words, so here</span><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" > are a few pictures and clips from the trip.</span> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" ><br />This is outside of the window of the first church we visit</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" >ed. The homes on the hillside tell the story. Check out the boy at the end of it being brought to church by the other kids...physically!</span><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dys36_yneWVNh4iRBbuuoN61V3sBo8KnCXmn63oRlA4MZ6bn_apPcIQThOFv7qmfn8Sv0E8okUK8YFGZKbEsA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >On day 2 we were greeted by over 200 children at Compassion Project 444. I have no idea what they were singing, but it was wonderful!!</span><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzgznDdZY-_1QY1EjRwP_1YHTQ9LhXkx5HalSv9Nv5_hOM8yY0j-4zSvvQ4xjTczO4K6l1tTyrDo_Lp72Ddeg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >I also was blessed to have the opportunity of meeting a little girl whom my family will be sponsoring in the future. Later that day I had the privilege of visiting her at her home!</span> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FXXfriC6EG8ouM4yCBsAfWkxilIVQsoEpIONGe7zP2xoXw0DG2tTDUPFldx3-SB9BWs6XYhO6rRUtI7fBrqZQq7CKguMn1IiN7qIyKKhyphenhyphenVjljq94XYbmVD9yRADoHBCxk8DeZrmhfJs/s1600-h/SMT_6414.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FXXfriC6EG8ouM4yCBsAfWkxilIVQsoEpIONGe7zP2xoXw0DG2tTDUPFldx3-SB9BWs6XYhO6rRUtI7fBrqZQq7CKguMn1IiN7qIyKKhyphenhyphenVjljq94XYbmVD9yRADoHBCxk8DeZrmhfJs/s320/SMT_6414.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314549491901379410" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, there really was too much to try and post right now, so I'll be posting more on this trip later. Thanks for reading.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Heath</span><br /></div><br /></div>Heath Bennettthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15899855073550561809noreply@blogger.com0