This past weekend I spoke at Parkview Christian in Orland Park (Chicago). I went to speak, but I came away from the experience with some challenging lessons. Tim Harlow has been a friend sense we were little boys. It’s very cool to see how God is using him and Parkview to make a difference in the WORLD. Here’s some stuff that really challenged me while I was there:
1. It’s possible to be five times our size and still feel real and personal. Parkview runs around 4,000 in attendance (although I doubt they did that when I spoke. ;) Although much bigger, I still had the sense that people everywhere genuinely cared about those who were there. They, like Community, just plain care about the people who may be showing up who are far from God. That doesn’t have to ever change!
2. Generous people really do make a difference that God is able to use…going way beyond the size of their gift. Here’s what I mean. Parkview is growing and expanding. They bought 33 more acres right next door and are adding to their parking lot right now. More building and development is right around the corner. But, however you slice it, it takes money from God’s people to make this happen. When God’s people give with a generous heart it makes a difference that multiplies and far exceeds the size of the gift. We never know how many people our generosity may some day affect. The people who sacrificed for Parkview to move to that location are still being amazed at the thousands who've been led to the Lord since they wrote their check.
3. You can be big and make an even BIGGER impact. Parkview is serious about missions. They do a lot in the Chicagoland area, but also are aggressive in their impact in the world. This week they have 3 different youth teams going to different places in the WORLD to serve. Here’s what’s cool and personal all at the same time: They are also heavily involved in what’s happening in Nairobi, Kenya. They’re working with a different team, but with the same organization (Christian Missionary Fellowship) that we’re going to be working with as we partner with the Kurz family. Too cool! Maybe Community and Parkview can hang out together in Africa!!!
I’m back in town for just a couple days before we take off to see my sister and her family in Prescott, AZ. It feels good to be sitting in Olivera’s listening to Coldplay and Jack Johnson. Vacation or not…I’m still learning! Hope you are too.
9 comments so far
As a Parkview member, let me say, we were blessed to have you as a visitor last week. Hope to see and hear you again sometime.
Hello John,
I just wanted to tell you that I attend Parkview and I really enjoyed your message last weekend. I am always a little disappointed when Pastor Tim isn't speaking, but honestly, I thought you were wonderful.
Both my husband and I talked about your message and asked ourselves those tough questions - "Am I the One?". We haven't stepped out and really got involved and we both know that it is time to give - time, talents and treasures.
Thanks for giving us the much needed push to step forward and say, Yes! I want to be the one, Lord.
God Bless and I hope you can come back and visit us soon.
Julie Morris
New Lenox, IL
You really made me think this weekend. Being a California girl myself, I was not sure what to expect, but your message was one that I really needed to hear.
Thank you.
T-
John,
Great message (and very well Prepared :)
next time, go see a Real team though, a team that teaches what faith means in the real world....GO CUBS!
Thanks Parkviewers...would love to come back some day. By the way, I'm really more of an Angels fan. There's just something spiritual about cheering for the ANGELS! (But if Angels wear sox...I'm sure they're WHITE)
Hey John,
Thanks for the great message. I too get a little disappointed when Pastor T is being replaced for the weekend but you did a great job! We are moving to California in a few weeks and have been praying about it alot. I was shocked to see that HE sent us a small sign direct from Southern CALI. Hopefully we can come visit your church when we get settled.
Mary
Tinley Park, IL
Dear Pastor John,
For 4 weeks I was too ill to attend Parkview. I missed the church, the friendly people, but especially pastor Tim. So I was disappointed when I read that there was a guest speaker. I LOVED your message & it was delivered with the same compassion, flair & sense of humor as Pastor Tim. No wonder you are such great friends.
Please pray for continued improvement for my health. The Drs. have yet to find out what is wrong with me. I will pray for you to continue your ministry, and keep spreading Gods' word.
Barb
GOD IS GREAT!!!!! THANKS FOR YOUR MESSAGE IT WAS OUTSTANDING!!!I HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT TIME WHILE YOU WERE HERE...WAIT.... YOU WERE WITH OUR PASTOR TIM HOW COULD YOU NOT..... THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR GREAT WORD...GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) :)
Thanks John for your visit to Parkview and your great comments about us on your blog. God has blessed us here tremendously and your visit only added to it. Hope to see you again!