Wayne Geiger

If You Aim at Nothing...

2012-01-16T10:02:00.006-06:00

I love the old saying by Zig Ziglar, "If you aim at nothing you'll hit it every time". That's not only a great saying--it's packed with truth. Basically, what Ziglar was saying, is that without a goal you’ll always achieve mediocrity.

Recently, I was asked about goal-setting in relation to New Year's resolutions. First of all, let me say that I do not make New Year's resolutions. It’s not because I don't believe in them, but because I don't like to wait for the new year to set goals.

Instead, I constantly set goals throughout the year. However, whether you set goals consistently in your life or if you set them once a year, there are some truths to remember. Here are just a few….

You need a measurable, purposeful destination

To set a goal to "be healthier" or to "be more spiritual" is too ethereal. It’s like trying to nail Jell-O to a wall. The problem is, these goals are not measurable. You can have great intentions, but still miss the target if your goal is not concrete and specific. All goals must be specific and measurable.

For example, instead of having a goal "to be healthier", define what you mean by becoming healthier and expound upon that. What you might mean is, "I want to lose 20 pounds" or "I want to reduce my cholesterol 20 points". If your goal is "to be more spiritual", how about, "I want to read by Bible 15 minutes every day" or "I want to memorize one Scripture a week".

In addition to being measurable, your goal should also be "purposeful". By that, I mean it's got to be worth it--to you or someone else. Ask yourself, "Why do I want to lose 20 pounds?" That answer will help you determine your purpose. It might be, "I want to be able to fit back into my jeans or I want to climb the stairs of my apartment without getting winded. Having a measurable destination is the first thing to do.

You need a target date

With every goal, you have to have some type of deadline. This is the “Christmas Eve” syndrome when many men realize that this is their last chance to buy something before Christmas. What many of us lack in methodical planning, we make up for in furious activity. As humans, we understand the concept of "crunch time". The adrenaline flows and we rise to the challenge—no matter what it takes!

So, you can have a great measurable destination like, "I want to lose 20 pounds", but if you don't assign a due date, there will be no passion and no drive. There is no crunch time—and no hope for a process.

　You need a detailed process

The final step in making a goal is to create a detailed process. The detailed process provides the roadmap from goal to completion. It is the GPS that proves the answer to the question, "how do we get there from here?"

The process of developing a process is a process—itself. Sometimes, you'll find that you will need to adjust your target date or adjust your goal. For example, if your measurable destination is to run a half marathon (unless you're a serious runner) it would be unlikely that you could hit that goal in a month. It's just not physically possible for most of us. Our goals need to be realistic—and flexible. So, the detailed

process really lays out your plan and offers some "common sense". That way, we don't get disappointed.

So, if your goal is “to memorize one Scripture a week", you already have an end date—it’s the end of the year. Now, you need to lay out a plan. That plan might look something like this:

Come up with a person that will hold you accountable.
Choose one Scripture each Sunday night.
Put that verse on three 3x5 cards.
Read the verse every morning as I'm drinking my coffee, every afternoon at lunch.
Write the verse out seven times on a paper every evening before retiring for the night.
Tape a copy to my bathroom mirror (if you're married ask your spouse--and don't use duct tape).
Tape a copy to my computer monitor at work (or on something you use every day.
Recite that verse Sunday afternoon to my accountability person.

I'm sure there are some steps that you would take away---or add to the list. Remember, it’s your list—and you can edit as needed.

Never give up, never surrender

In conclusion, even if you have a measurable, purposeful destination, a target date, and a detailed process, a goal is generally something that stretches and challenges us. It will take work and effort.

You may find out that you need to go back and adjust your goal, your deadline, or even the process. But, remember, if your goal is a good goal, it's worth the effort and sacrifice.

Eating by the soft glow of the dashboard light...

2011-07-05T14:13:00.003-05:00

It’s a long, lonely, sleepy ride back to Kansas City on 50 hwy from Warrensburg. It’s worse when you have a night class that ends at 9. I only know this because, for two-and-a-half years, I drove back from UCM.

To help ease my pain, I would drive through Wendy’s on the way home. I always ordered the same thing: A number one with a Frosty (which explains why I put on 20 lbs the last semester).
I’m not a big fan of eating in the car. However, I’m even less of a fan of stopping to eat after a three hour class knowing that I have an hour commute, or worse, not eating at all.

We’ve all had the unpleasant experience of eating fast food in the car. You know the drill. You put your food and drink down carefully and methodically so you can maneuver your food with one hand and the motor vehicle with the other. Then, you have to try and eat without dribbling catsup or dropping pickles on your shirt. I got pretty good at eating and only consuming moderate pieces of aluminum foil.

Driving back one night, eating by the soft glow of the dashboard light, I took a healthy bite and wondered, “hummmm, this tastes like a single with cheese, but honestly, I don’t know that for sure. It is, after all, dark in this car. Suddenly, a scene from an old Indiana Jones movie and creepy crawly things popped into my mind.

I reached for the light to satisfy my curiosity and dispel my fears. However, I stopped just short of illumination. “What if,” I thought to myself, “there is actually something I don’t want to see? Then, I would have to stop eating my burger!” Naturally, I still would have had my fries and Frosty, but it wouldn’t be a number one with the burger! I did what any sensible and hungry person would have done. I rationalized my behavior by saying, “I’m sure it’s fine.” I kept eating trying to think of a different Indiana Jones’ scene.

It dawned on me sometime later that hunger always triumphs over fear. My desire to satisfy my hunger overcame my fear of eating the unknown.

This is true in our spiritual relationship. Our relationship to God will generally equal our hunger for God. Throughout the Bible, God has promised to meet us with the same intensity in which we have sought Him (Jer. 29:13, James 4:8, Heb 11:6). It comes down to hunger and desire. This metaphor is seen throughout the Bible:

Taste and see that the LORD is good; (Ps. 34:8)

Blessed are those who
hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled (Matt. 5:6)

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my
God. (Ps. 42:1)

If your relationship to God has begun to wane (I’ve always hated that word), maybe it’s time to go back to the table. Are you hungry?

Confessions of a frustrated father fidgeting with a 5-minute cake in a cup

2011-06-30T07:30:00.000-05:00

I was craving something—maybe something chocolate. I researched my options—the fridge, the cabinets, the counter. Nothing. “Hey” I thought, “how about a 5 minute cake in a cup?” The idea sounded great! And what's better is I could be enjoying chocolate in 5 minutes!. The recipe is simple. Just mix it up the ingredients in 2 minutes and cook it in the microwave for 3. How cool is that? I don't even need my wife's help. I called out to the living room, "anybody want some cake in a cup?" "No thanks" was the response. This night just keep getting better and better.
I found the recipe, but I couldn't find all the ingredients. I guess I do need my wife's help, rats. So, after bugging her several times to help me find the necessary ingredients, she was kind enough to put everything on the counter. I immediately went to work. Halfway through my wife came in to make sure that I had not destroyed the kitchen or caused myself bodily harm. “Why are you using a teaspoon” my wife asked? “That’s what the recipe said” I responded defiantly. “I think it’s supposed to be a tablespoon” she said. “Did it actually say teaspoon?” “Actually”, I confessed, looking down with guilt, “it just said T. “Was it a big T or a little t” she questioned. I confessed that I did not know, but really thought that tablespoon would have had a B in it. This is cooking not chemistry. She looked it up and found that it was supposed to be a tablespoon. Rats…she’s always right. My 5 minute cake in a cup response time just doubled. Not to worry. Chococalte goodness was right around the corner.
Now, I had to figure out how to fix my mistake. I made a mess of things, but the mixture in the cup really looked good. I almost thought about eating it without zapping it in the microwave, but I kept thinking about the raw egg I put in there. I put everything away, washed off the tablespoon and put my 5 minute cake in a cup in the microwave for the required 3 minutes. Of course, 20 minutes had gone by but this time. No problem, cake was 2 ½ minutes away.
My daughter came in to the kitchen and asked, “is that mine?” A little frustrated and grumpy, I shot back “I didn’t know you wanted one.” After a little verbal badminton, I decided that I would give her the first one and I began working on cake in a cup number two. I pulled all of the ingredients back out, no help from my wife this time. Also, this time I was ready, tablespoon in hand. I was amazed at the lightning speed at which I worked. I was a professional cake in a cupper now. Rachael Ray would be proud.
Seeing my daughter’s finished product made me want it all the more. I finished all the mixing, washed the tablespoon again and carefully put all of the ingredients back up in the cabinet. I then put cake in a cup number 2 it in the microwave for 3 minutes. I could taste the chocolate, delightfully melting in my mouth. It was just seconds away.
My son came into the kitchen, “hey dad, I think I kind of changed my mind on the cake in a cup”. He had obviously seen the creation I made for his sister. I smiled and said, “I’ve got one just about done”. Now, completely frustrated and famished, I had a bowl of cereal and went to bed.
You may have better luck. Here’s the receipe:

5-Minute Cake in a Cup
(Make sure you use a mug, not a little cup)

T flour

4 T sugar2T cocoa

1 egg

3 T milk

3 T oil

3 T chocolate chips (optional)

small splash of vanilla1 coffee mug

Put dry ingredients in mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla and mix again. Microwave for 3 minutes at 1,000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but won’t spill over. Allow to cool a little, and tip onto a plate if desired or just eat it out of the cup. You could also drizzle some chocolate or caramel syrup over the top and add whipped cream, as well.

We Can't Put God "Back" in schools

2009-05-02T23:06:00.001-05:00

Perhaps you’ve seen the FB group, “Put God back in schools”. To get me wrong, it’s not that I’m opposed to the concept, but I do have a few “issues” with the semantics and purposed methodology.
For one, it makes the assumption that God is not in schools. The reality is, if God is omnipresent. He is everywhere all at the same time. Therefore, we can’t put God back in schools. He is there. There is nowhere that He is not. He was in school long before we ever got there. God doesn’t need an invitation and He doesn’t need to receive instruction. He does what He wants and goes where He pleases. We can’t “put” God anywhere. This would imply that we are God and have manipulative control over Him.

My second issue is the assumption that some people have that we can somehow force America to become a Christian nation “again” or that we can return us to “the good old days” where teachers used to pray or we at least had silent prayer.
The thing to remember is that early education developed from the churches. Even when I was young it was “natural” to mention God or to pray. But remember, we didn’t get that way by force. It was a natural part of who we were as Americans—at that time. No doubt, we have drifted far from our roots, but we can’t get back there by force. Historically, others have tried to force God upon nations. It didn’t work then and it won’t work now (when in Rome don’t do as Constantine did).
That does not mean we should surrender. However, we should evaluate our methodology. There is another way. Jesus reminds the Christian that we are “salt and “light” in a dark world. He said…

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt 5:13-16).

As Christians, we are, by our conversation and our actions, expected to permeate and influence those around us. The movement is grassroots—from the bottom up. That means, in schools, we need Christian administrators, faculty, staff and students. We need believers who are bold, dynamic Christians who live their lives in such a way as to demand a response. Too often, there is not much of a difference between the believer and the unbeliever. Paul wrote about this in Colossians where he said...

“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” (Col 4:5-6).

I’m not suggesting that we do not stand up for our right to formally pray or have the right to carry our Bibles. Those are rights protected by the Constitution. We also have biblical responsibility. On one occasion, the disciples were told that they were not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. Their response was, “for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). Their response was not, “we have the right to do this and you can’t stop us”. Instead, their response was more like, “we have a fire in our heart and it cannot be quenched”. On another occasion they were beaten for their faith. Historically, all but one of them were martyred.

We can influence our schools not from the top down—but from the bottom up. Imagine a school where… The Christians who worked there loved one another. They did not backbite or gossip, there were no cliques or hierarchies, no angry words or finger pointing. We will never reach the world until we stop fighting each other and instead recognize that we have a much greater enemy who thrives on division. Imagine a school where Christians ministered to the helpless and hurting. Imagine a school where Christ-following students were not concerned about the latest fashion, fitting into the right crowd or playing the latest video game. Instead, these young, dynamic believers were sensitive to needs of others and perhaps reached out to a family in need. This might also be a school where the Christians learned how to hate sin and yet love the sinner by extending grace and love without being judgmental and remembering where they came from. Imagine a place where Christians would also be quick to recognize their imperfections and refuse to turn a blind eye to the destructive power of greed, intolerance, pride, bigotry and prejudice and all the while responding with a heart of love and compassion.

The old bumper sticker has some pretty good theology to offer, “As long as there are tests there will be prayer in schools”. What that means, to me anyways, is that as long as there are Christians who are serious about their faith, God will have a marvelous platform from which to display His mighty power. And, at the same time, even if the school is completely absent of any believers, the Spirit of God will still be in school working His mighty power.
My comments are not in anger or in response to a particular person. And certainly, in no way am I suggesting that I have “arrived” in my faith. I have a long way to go and much to learn. Instead, I just wanted to offer a suggestion that a proper perspective can make all the difference.

Why?

2009-02-04T10:19:00.002-06:00

The book of Job is the textbook on suffering. Although Job was a man committed to God, he was not a prophet. He was a layman. He was a husband, father and businessman. He was trying to do the best he could with what he had.
Things were going great for Job. He had the happy family, a successful business, and a few of the perks that life has to offer. Actually, he was pretty well-to-do. Then, he found himself at a cross roads in his life. He lost his children, his business and his own personal health.
The first two chapters explain Job’s situation. Then, the rest of the book of Job deals with his struggle. You and I are able to read his story and to see what is happening “in between the lines.” Job did not have that option of course.
Job lost everything that was dear to him and he suffered greatly. The reaction of his friends--which is sympathy at first--then turns to condemnation. And then finally at the end of the book, God reveals Himself to Job.
Through the entire ordeal, Job has only question. It is the same question that you and I ask when going through difficult times: Why? Why would a loving God allow me to go through suffering and pain?
We’ve all been there. You’ve been working at this same job for 15 years. On this particular day, the boss calls you into his office. You don’t worry, you’ve been here before. In fact, your boss and the folks you work with are more like family than fellow employees.
Something is wrong, though. Your boss looks different today. As you look at his face across the desk, you notice that he is not smiling like usual. He has a very somber and concerned look on his face. Your stomach begins to churn and your forehead begins to break out in a light sweat. You know it’s bad, you just don’t know what.
As he begins to speak, you hear him talking but you almost feel as if you are in a different world. You hear some major words like company merger, profit losses and massive cutbacks. But with great clarity you hear when he says, that this is your last day. You will have to empty your desk, turn in your key and your company truck. He tells you that he is truly sorry and escorts you to the door. In horror and humiliation, you begin the process of gathering your things. You place the last 15 years in a cardboard box and head for home.
You weren’t prepared for this. You’ve been faithful. You were always a hard worker and always on time. You always did what they asked you to do. You think about your family, your kids and the upcoming vacation. Questions like, “How will you tell your family? “How long can you survive without another job?” and “what will you do now?” run through your mind. You go through the rash of emotions, sadness, fear and finally anger. “How could they let you go just like that?”
But there is one main question that continues to haunt you. Why me? Job asked that same question. In fact, he challenged God to a day in court. “If only God knew”, Job thought, “then I would be justified”. In the end, however, Job found that he had been asking the wrong question and seeking the wrong answers.
The Bible reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” (Prov. 3:5-6)
More than likely you have been, are going, or will one day go through a difficult time. More than likely, our struggle will be nothing in comparison to Job. Remember—you will probably not get the answer to the question, why? However, when all is said and done, it may not be the best question anyway. The best question is not “why” but “who”. The answer to the “who” question is God. God is in control and nothing escapes His notice. Look for His hand and leave the driving to Him.

as one anonymous author wrote:
I asked God for strength, but God gave me difficulties to make me strong
I asked God for wisdom, but God gave me problems to solve
I asked God for prosperity, but God gave me brains and brawn to work.
I asked God for courage, but God gave me danger to overcome
I asked God for love, but God gave me difficult and troubled people to help.
I asked God for favors, but God gave me opportunities
I received nothing I wanted, but later I realized I received everything I needed.

How do you eat your M&M's?

2009-01-31T14:54:00.003-06:00

It's an hour any way you look at it. I'm referring to the drive from UCM to Kansas City. To stay away and alert on the way home, I have my iPod and some peanut M&Ms. I Have noticed, however, that I have a peculiar way of eating the M&Ms. I don't just crunch them all.

The first one, I always just crunch. This is just to get ready for my routine. However, after that, in an attempt to maximize my pleasure and prolong the contents, some of them I simply suck off the candy shell and allow the chocolate to melt in my mouth. The colors are irrelevant--although I prefer green. Rarely, although there have been times, I will put two in my mouth at a time. It's too easy to chomp down and it also speeds up the process too much.

Others, I lightly crunch and attempt to gently remove the shell. Finally, others I bite in half and then when I have finished that half, I go for the other. There is no rhyme or reason to the pattern although I would like to do some type of quanitative study--should some want to finance the study.

Anyway, without exeption, the last one of the bag, however, I always just crunch. For some reason, this helps me to provide some closure to the M&M experience.

Funny Prank?

2009-01-28T12:37:00.003-06:00

I used to do morning drive at WBSN (LifeSongs) in New Orleans. I lived on campus at the seminary and could literally walk to the station—and often did. One day, (this was in ‘93), I recorded various elements of the show on a cassette and popped it in the boss’ cassette player. I knew that he always came in at the same time. I had previously recorded news, traffic, weather etc. But, it also included something special. That morning (on the tape anyway), I went on and asked our listeners to participate in the “Wayne Michaels Moped Fund”. I gave a tearful diatribe that indicated that I had to walk to work and the weather was getting bad, so if they could, please consider sending a monetary donation so that I could buy a moped. Not a fancy one, just a modest one.
Immediately, the boss and the engineer ran back to the studio and peered intently through the glass. Naturally, I had the mic on and the red indicator light was on outside. I could see the engineer mouth to the station manager in disbelief, “he’s really doing it”. I was shocked that they did not bust in through the door and tackle me. The Station Manger was in shock and his face was white. His reply was, “I just hope [the owner] is not listening!” He was not immediately enthusiastic with my stunt, but eventually, he did think it was funny.

If you've done a funny prank, please respond and let me know....

Jesus didn't teach contemporary!

2009-01-27T14:21:00.003-06:00

“…you have one message” the friendly, automated voice on my phone said. Her pleasant, relaxing voice was interrupted by an equally unpleasant phone message. I’m going to guess that she was in her late 60s. She was obviously mad. No, better to say, steamed. There was no introduction, no pleasanties and no mention of her name. She just blurted out,

“I’m gonna quit listening to your station. You don’t play gospel music anymore you play contemporary and that’s not what Jesus taught. He didn’t teach contemporary.”

I’ve talked to her one-hundred times before. Not the same person, just the same type. They never give their name. Most of them are mean-spirited, angry and extremely self-righteous. There is never a “have a nice day” or “goodbye” at the end. Just a click. I’m beginning to think that most of them yell and hang up as if to get it off their chest. Hopefully, they feel better. I rarely ever do.
I go through a rash of emotions. First, I laugh because it almost sounds like a joke. Then, I get angry as I can't believe that anyone would do that. At least say goodbye. In addition, there is an element of fear as I consider the emotional/mental state of the person. Then, finally, I feel a sense of sorrow as I think of the bondage that some people live in. They operate in a world full of rules, regulations and judgment. They know nothing of grace, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. And worse, many of them do not know the Bible.
I remember some years ago, one woman called and complained about a song where the woman was self-absorbed and kept saying, “I am”. “She is so conceited” the woman said. I had to go on to explain that the woman singing was Ginny Owens and she was singing not about herself, but the great “I am”—Yahweh the God of eternity who revealed Himself to Moses at the burning bush. She was not impressed with my knowledge of biblical Hebrew and this concept was foreign to her. Click…she was gone.
Many of these people simply do not understand the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus--talk about a reformer! Jesus rejected the religious crowd and spent time with the sinners. His opponents called him every name in the book. They called him a sinner. They called him a winebibber. They said he had a demon.
Jesus did not give in. Other times, he just pushed their buttons. For example, even though Jesus knew that his opponents did not believe he should heal on the Sabbath--he did it anyway. He would not sacrifice truth for peace. He did not need to be validated by man. Truth is like that. It just is.
I digress, but have you ever thought about the first people Jesus appeared to after his resurrection? They were women. Not a big deal in our society today, but a huge deal in Jesus’ time. In Jesus time, women had few rights, were often treated as property and, in fact, their testimony was not valid in court.
Wow, pretty bum deal that women were the first ones to see him right---wrong. God is sovereign. He makes no mistakes. Jesus purposefully and strategically appeared to the women first. He was, you see, a trailblazer and unconcerned with the validation of man (John 2:23-25). Contrary to the belief of the woman who called today, Jesus was and is contemporary. He didn’t speak in “thee” “thou”. He spoke in the language of the people and met people where they were.
When it comes to Calvary 88-5 and music, we get those calls all the time and as Station Manager, they generally fall on my desk to resolve, or at least attempt to. Most of the time, they’re just angry hang-ups. On a few occasions, I am generally able to have an amicable conversation with these folks. Rarely do we get anywhere.
Every single call and every interaction, however, is a time for evaluation and self-reflection. Even a broken clock is right twice a day. I always do some introspective work to find out if there is any truth to their comments.

There are a few dangers to consider:
1. It is easy to get discouraged. If you’re in ministry, you know, most of the time you will hear from people when they need something or when they’re not happy. Some of these people will take the air out of your sails and suck the life right out of you. The danger we face is that we might “grow weary in well-doing”. We must remember that what we do, we do for the Lord and not for the atta-boy of people around us.
2. There is a danger in thinking that I am somehow "better", “smarter” or "more spiritual" than someone else. Many times, when dealing with opposition, I may find myself comparing myself to Jesus and the other person to a Pharisee. Rarely, if ever, am I the Pharisee in the story. This is nothing less than the sin of self-righteous pride. When dealing with “stronger brother/weaker brother” issues, Paul chided the stronger brother not to offend the weaker. They should know better and be willing to operate in humility.

So, I am again reminded to do what I do for the glory of God. I will not water down Scripture and operate in law. At the same time, I will take no opportunity to think of myself more highly than I ought to think. I must walk in the Spirit and allow my heart to be motivated by love and by words to be seasoned with salt. Gotta run, there’s the phone…

Subliminal Sidewalk Sales

2009-01-19T14:14:00.004-06:00

They’re everywhere, they’re everywhere! Have you seen them? What I’m referring to is the folks that stand on the side of the road, oftentimes arrayed in comedic apparel, and hold up a sign for a particular business or service.
I drove by one on my way home today—the temperature was about 20 degrees. And I wondered, (like I always wonder when I see them), “How much do those people get paid to stand out there in ridiculous costumes in the dead of winter?” Maybe they lost a bet.
Some of them hide behind their sign in order not to bear the brunt of the shame. Some seem as if they’re sleeping standing up or maybe frozen in place. Others, however, can be quite entertaining. Recently, for example, a young man dressed as Uncle Sam in my neighborhood for Liberty Tax Service was getting his groove on while showing off some impressive dance moves. Napoleon would be proud. Most of the time I am impressed with their dedication. They could be at home, but they at least have a job.
Some of these people wave at traffic when it goes by. Most commuters immediately assume the defensive position and simply pretend that they don’t see a green Statue of Liberty waving to them. Me, I generally wave back to their delight. Hey, I need all the friends I can get—even if they do need a wardrobe makeover. One thing is for sure, they get noticed. You’ve got to admit, it is a very clever and cost effective marketing strategy.
You and I are bombarded with thousands of auditory and visual messages each day clamoring for our attention. Most of these messages want us to do or buy something. Because we live in a society that screams for our attention, most of these requests go unnoticed. We simply program it out. Can you say "DVR"?
But, it’s hard to miss Uncle Sam who is doing the Hustle. Hey, now there’s something you don’t see every day. We’re compelled to look because our nature is to be naturally curious. For example, after we’ve waited in southbound traffic for an hour because of an accident that was on the other side of the highway—going northbound—we get mad at all of the rubberneckers in front of us who simply stopped to look. But what do we do when we get up there? We look! Don’t feel too bad, it’s in our nature to be curious.
Liberty Tax Service, and others, have learned something we need to remember. If you want people to buy your product or service, you’ve got to get noticed and to get noticed, you’ve got to stand out.

Whether you have a business or a ministry, remember that simple principle. You may not have the funds to orchestrate a brilliant mass media marketing strategy that will blanket the market with commercials. But, you still might be able to attract customers by utilizing a guy in a yellow chicken costume waving to traffic as it goes by.
But, please understand. The goal is not to mimic or copy what is being done—unless you think it will work for you. If everybody is doing it, it’s probably old school Instead, the goal is to adapt the principles. The old “4 step process to writing a commercial” involves:

Attention (make them look)

Interest (get people interested)

Desire (make them want it)

Action (tell them specifically how to obtain it)

When it comes to subliminal sidewalk sales, it seems like many businesses are trying the same tactic. Because of this, many sidewalks are becoming cluttered by these walking, waving billboards. So cluttered, in fact, that many cities are passing ordinances to restrict this on public property as it could be a hazard to traffic or to lady liberty herself. And the sad reality is, once you’ve seen one green Statue of Liberty waving at you from the side of the road, you’ve seen them all. So, the goal is not to fall into line with what everybody else is doing. Instead, the goal is to stand out from the crowd. So, that second-hand chicken costume on eBay, give it some serious thought.

The love of dog

2009-01-17T17:58:00.006-06:00

Isn't she beautiful!! But please understand, she’s not just a dog. She’s a part of our family. Her name is Hershey and she is our miniature yorkshire terrier. Hershey is an intricate part of our lives at the Geiger household.

She doesn’t know how to do dishes or fix dinner or even make the bed. In fact, she’s pretty lazy. Her skills include eating rigorously, playing joyfully and sleeping constantly. But what she does best of all is love unconditionally.
When I come home at the end of the day, she is there ready to greet me. Her tail begins to wag the moment I come through the door and she cannot wait to greet me. Her little body quivers at the excitement of seeing me. When I sit in the living room she is at my feet—in fact she is most often on my feet. When I get up she follows me. In fact, right now as I type, she is trying to get my attention so that I might spend some time petting her (which I did).
Hershey knows how to love. It doesn’t matter if I’ve had a hard day or I’m grumpy or busy, Hershey is always the same. She is always giving and ready to receive affection. I’m not deserving of such love and affection, but I am happy to receive it.

The Bible is clear that God loves His children unconditionally. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done or where we’ve been. It doesn’t matter what kind of mood we’re in or if we feel we’re worthy of such love. Irregardless, God loves us.
The love of God cannot be earned, it must simply be received. He doesn’t love us based upon our merit, our accomplishments or our achievements. He loves us because it’s in His nature to love. He cannot love us any more than He loves us and He cannot love us any less.
If we ever get it through our minds that God’s greatest desire is to spend time with us, our lives would be radically different. True, He wants our service, but more than that He wants our love and adoration (Remember Martha and Mary?).

God’s door is always open to His children. His ear is always attentive and His heart is always reaching out to us. Like the father on the hill in the story of the prodigal son, God longs for His children to come home. Let the party begin.

Major decisions at 26,000 feet

2009-01-15T19:21:00.004-06:00

"I just want to warn you that I make major decisions on airplanes," I warned my Chief Engineer as we sat, strapped into our seats awaiting takeoff for a radio conference in Seattle a few years ago.
He chuckled nervously and asked what I meant. "well," I said, "it just seems that I do some of my best thinking and planning on airplanes." Satisfied, he went back to reading his technical magazine.
I quickly got out my trusty Daytimer, some blank paper and a pen and went to work. Although I did not have an agenda, there were a few things that needed to get done. Some of those "needed" things that you never seem to have time for.
The more I worked, the more the creative juices began to flow and the ideas formed. My theory was quickly beginning to prove itself true once again. I was amazed at how much I was able to do and what "great" ideas I was able come up with. "There's just something about being at 26,000 feet," I thought. Maybe it's the air.
Then it occurred to me, "where else was I going to go?" I had few options. I could sleep, read or chat with my engineer--which I ended up doing a little of all three in our six hour trek. But still, my choices were limited. At the same time, nobody came into my office asking for help or advice, nobody was calling me on the telephone, and the tyranny of the urgent was sitting on my desk back in Kansas City and would be there when I got back.
It dawned on me that it wasn't the airplane or the altitude that helped me to do creative brainstorming and vision casting---it was just the fact that I was forced to do it. My job, by nature, involves putting out fires which arise at any given time and without warning. But up here, I was able to think clearly and to focus. Maybe your day is just like mine. You are busy from daylight to dark and at the end of the day you ask, "what did I truly accomplish today?"
If you are a leader ask a difficult question. "Where in my schedule is there time to dream, or plan, or evaluate the process?" I have thought about this quite a bit. Leaders must lead. Leaders must blaze the trail into the unknown future. We must provide guidance and a vision. It's hard to do that in the busy day-to-day grind.
When I was a pastor, I used to schedule one week each quarter to plan out my messages for the next quarter and come up with various sermon series. Because I preached expository messages, I found that attempting to paint the big picture was the most extremely difficult and time consuming task of preaching. After this was done, then I would set aside one day a week for sermon preparation and planning. This was the putting the meat on the bones. I found the local library to be best.
That preparation made all the difference. I always knew what was coming up and I always had the entire week to pray, study and listen. The church also appreciated it because they always knew where I was going. As difficult as teh advance preparation was, it made all the difference in my messages, my state of mind and, I believe, my physical health.

In your busy life, do you regularly schedule time to be at "26,000 feet"? Quiet time alone to think, dream and plan should be a regular disclipline. If not, you'll go through life blindfolded, trying to put out fires and missing the big picture. If you are a leader this should not be an option, but a priority. Don't wait for the time--make the time. The view from up here is so much better.

The speed trap

2009-01-14T16:18:00.003-06:00

I drive the same way to work every day. My wife and kids would tell you that I am a slow driver. I would just say that I did my share of speeding in my early years and have the banged up cars and scars to prove it.
There is a long road right in front of the college that has a speed limit, for the most part, of 25 mph. It is not clearly marked and a favorite place for law enforcement personnel to hang out. Some would call it a speed trap. I have been driving the route for so long that I know all of their hiding places.
On most of my commute, I drive my normal, slow speed and only routintely look down at the speedometer. However, when I get on the road where I know the police may be, I immediately slow down and watch that speedometer to make sure I am doing under 25. My motivation at that point is fear. I do not want a ticket nor the unpleasanties that go with it.
Many people approach their Chrisitan walk like that. They are motivated to obedience out of fear. They fear that God will smash them or take away their stuff or something else traumatic like sending a locust plague. Other people are motivated by guilt or because they want an attaboy or because it's part of their tradition. They're usually the same people that asked in school, "what do I need to do to get an 'A'"? In other words, they want to do "just enough" but not necessarily any more. Some people treat their relationship with God this way.
There are many things that motivate people to serve God. However, only one really matters--love. God wants us to serve Him because we love Him. Our obedience should be out of joy. Our love for God should compel us to evaluate everything we do based upon our intimacy with Him. God would have it no other way. Jesus said in John 14, "if you love me, keep my commandments". The joy that we get from being "in Him" should far excede the temporary pleasures that would come from a life of disobedience. As humans, we were designed for intimacy with God. If that connection is not made, people will try to fill that void with anything and everything else. But, nothing else fits. However, if that connection is made, everything else falls into place. If there is true joy and intimacy with our Creator, we can handle the uncertainties and unpleasanties that life throws at us. When our world is falling apart we can smile because our joy is not based upon circumstances, but is based upon a sweet intimacy with our Creator. In this relationship, the true joy replaces the guilt and fear.

You've got a friend in me?

2009-01-12T13:23:00.000-06:00

I have always thought of myself as being on the cutting edge—especially when it came to Christian music. Oh, the stories that I could share about my years as a Programming and Music Director and Station Manager.
I have taken a lot of heat over the years for some of the music that I have allowed to be played on stations that I have worked. I have been called “liberal”, evil and the devil”. I have been told I wasn’t saved and that I was going to hell—mostly by sweet little old ladies who ending the phone conversation abruptly by hanging up on me. It’s no fun.
However, I am not a rebel without a cause. I don’t look to start fights and I don’t want to stir up the hornet’s nest without due cause. If I’m going to die, it’s not going to be on a 6-inch cross. I do strive for truth and for reconciliation.
I consider myself extremely conservative biblically. My Bible degrees are from two very biblical and conservative seminaries. I don’t pursue change for the sake of change. My goal is a methodology based upon a conservative, biblical hermeneutic. In other words, I want to live my life like the Bible says I should and not necessarily someone’s opinion of what they believe.
Several weeks ago, my methodology was put to the test. As I have written, I am now playing lead guitar for LifeQuest in Belton several times a month. You may want to read the next line sitting down. This past weekend, we opened with the song, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”. It’s a fun, catchy tune that was used in Toy Story. I have seen the movie several times.
Not exactly a “church” song. This was the first time, as far as I can remember, that I have played a “secular” song in church. The reason it was chosen is because the pastor’s message was on developing biblical friendships, so the theme fit right in. The request caused me to evaluate my beliefs and I anticipated some grief from those around me.
When I was in the pastorate and worked with music ministers, I always told them that there are two types of music. There is vertical music and horizontal music.
Vertical music is music that is directed to God. These songs or hymns use the pronoun “I” frequently. For example, the song, “I love you Lord (and I lift my voice…)” is an example of vertical music. So is, “Lord, I lift your name on high”. These are personally directed to God.
Horizontal music, on the other hand, is not directed to God, but is directed to something or someone else. For example, “Amazing Grace” is a song of declaration to sing about God’s great love. Another example would be “Blessed be the tie that binds”. A song about fellowship.
All of these are very familiar hymns/songs that are typically sung in church. Many of these songs have been canonized in books or volumes of songs. In my denomination, it’s the Baptist Hymnal. I have met many people over the years who have refused to sing something that was not in the hymnal, but they could never explain why. They would say things like, “it just doesn’t sound like church music.” In fact, in one church we had to create a separate booklet for choruses so they would have validity. And, of course, I will never forget the day when a very godly saint told me, “Wayne, it’s probably not a good idea to play the guitar in church, why don’t you play the piano instead?”
But I digress. Most people are shocked to find that many of the hymns that are found in our hymnals were actually incorporated from “the world”. Some of these actually came from the local taverns. It was the taverns that had the music and the place where songs were sung. Some of the hymns were early poems that were put to the melodies of these early tavern songs.
For example, consider the song, “Jesus is tenderly calling me home.” It is rarely played as it is written. Most of the time, it is played as a dirge. However, the song is written in 6/8 time. That means there are 6 notes in a measure and the 1/8th note gets one beat. It is a very quick tune that is counted, 1-2-3, 4-5-6. Did you ever wonder why this song makes you want to move? It’s because a 6/8 time is generally assigned to a waltz. It is a dance beat. Personally, I enjoy the song, although I do find my head bopping up and down while listening to it as if I was waltzing.
The issue over music in church comes down to two things: what’s the point and what is holy?
1) “What’s the point?” The song, “Jesus is tenderly calling me home” is not a worship song. It was never intended to be. It is a declarative song. It was written to get someone to think about their relationship with Christ. I am very particular about horizontal music. It must be meaningful and sincere. God must always be the focus.
2) What is holy? When you boil it down, the term holy means separate. God alone is holy and anything that He declares to be holy is holy. Volumes have been written on the subject. Being in church does not make anyone more holy. Singing a secular song in a church does not make the song holy, but neither can it profane that which is holy.

When asked to play, “You’ve got a friend in me”, it didn’t take me long to realize that I didn’t have a problem with it. Working with a ministry that primarily reaches out to the lost—I’m talking about people who have little or no church background and may have been in the bar the night before, the song is familiar, gets their attention, communicates a truth and is not offensive. True, it is not a “Christian” song, but with proper application it does communicate a biblical truth.
I have always found it interesting that Jesus main opponents were those who were the most religious. It is also worthy of note that Jesus never condemned the sinner—but He had harsh, stinging criticisms for the self-righteous. I have been both.
Probably like you, I’m trying hard to be what God wants me to me. But I also want to make sure that my information comes from a reliable source and not second hand. After all, it was the religious folks who put the Son of God on a cross and thought all the time that they were doing the will of God.

The gift of music--no strings attached

2009-01-09T13:31:00.001-06:00

The gift of music—no strings attached (actually, I guess they were attached)

I was just minding my own business and scrolling around Facebook when I noticed a note general announcement from a friend in ministry. He mentioned LifeQuest church was looking for a lead guitar player.
I was intrigued. Because of a daunting schedule at the time and my inability to give 100%, I had recently left the pastorate at Belvidere Heights. They were great people who needed more than I could give. At the same time, I was really searching to do something.
In high school, I was the rocker. Music was a huge part of my life back then. When I was young I took several years of piano. At age 14, I got my first guitar and rarely put it down. I played in several bands during that time.
After I was saved and went off to seminary, I just put the music away. I figured that the guitar was not going to be something that God was going to use in my life. I did play in church, from time to time, but it was mainly acoustic and nothing that was really ongoing. There wasn’t really any avenue to play.
When I saw the note from JR, I was intrigued and wrote back a simple note like, “what are you looking for?” The rest is kind of history. After several weeks of thinking, meeting and praying, I agreed to play at LQ at least a couple of times a month. There was only one main problem. I have a great acoustic guitar, but I got rid of all of my electric guitars and it wasn’t like I could just go out and buy one.
I sent out several notes to friends of anybody that might know of a second-hand guitar that I could borrow. What I didn’t know was that some great friends had decided to be a blessing to me. I had done some audio production for Mainstream Outreach Bible Society. The group’s mission is to place radio ads, especially on secular stations. These ads simply encourage people to read the Bible. They will also give a copy of the New Testament away to those who need one. I liked the concept and agreed with their mission. I also agreed to help them produce several spots at no cost. (visit them at myfreebible.com)
When they found out that I needed a guitar, (all of this a surprise to me) one of them called his brother who works at a music distribution company—and next thing you know, a guitar came via UPS—strings attached! I was shocked and elated at the kindness and have loved playing it—sometimes a little too much when I should have been doing other things!
I had my first band practice last night and loved it. It was nice to let the music out again. I’ve been holding it in a long time and it felt like a part of me was missing. A big thanks to the guys at MBOS for their kindness and generosity and for allowing me the opportunity to let the music play.

Shout out to Bott Radio Network

2009-01-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

A bond that is stronger than anything else…

Most businesses and services are taught that you do not acknowledge the presence of other businesses—unless forced to do so or unless that is your strategy. For example, a local retailer would probably not say to a customer, “check out Walmart and compare their prices to ours”. Walmart has built its business upon low prices and matching or beating competitor’s prices. However, Walmart often tells customers to compare. They win the price battle.
In a similar vein, growing up in radio, I was always taught not to acknowledge other stations or networks—unless there was an angle or something to be gained. However, as a manager of a Christian station, the bond of love and cooperation supersedes that train of thought. We are all on the same team.
For example, I would like to offer a “shout-out” to my friends over at Bott Radio Network (BRN) located in KC. They are a Christian network that focuses primarily on talk programming. During the recent election, BRN was faced with an unusual dilemma. As a commercial radio station they are, according to federal law, required to run political advertisements—for anyone. They cannot legally turn a candidate away.
In the past election, BRN was approached with ads from the Obama campaign. They struggled with the dilemma knowing that the Obama campaign ran on the abortion platform. Bott Radio Network is clearly pro-life.
However, in an interesting and innovative spin of brilliance, the network decided that although they were required to run the ads, they were not required to profit from them. Thus, BRN decided to distribute all the revenue from the commercials and give them to crisis pregnancy centers in Missouri and Indiana. The amount worked out to about 4 thousand dollars.
I proudly read the story as a part of my news today because I felt that it would encourage our listeners at KLJC and because I wanted to extend credit to where credit is due. I applaud the decision by the folks over at BRN. I know many of them personally. I appreciate their ministry and their friendship. All I can say is, great job and “go team!”
http://www.bottradionetwork.com/

I've been "Twittered"

2009-01-07T11:38:00.000-06:00

I got “Twittered” today. From what I understand, I’m late getting on the Twitter train, but that’s the way it usually is. I was always the last guy to learn about the hot new product. I have found that, generally by the time I embrace something, it is on the way out.
Most of the time I find out what’s new from one of my 4 kids. It’s not that they’re cutting edge, it’s just that they’re kids that have grown up in the age of information. When it came to Twitter, however, I asked one of my kids if they knew what it was—and they did not.
However, I have seen the name pop up many times and always with a positive response. I decided to investigate. From what I understand, Twitter is another tool in the process of social networking. From their website it says, “Twitter is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing.” You can then give about 140 characters to respond. Then, those in your social network can stay up to date with what’s happening in your life/business/ministry.
From what I see, primarily, it is done through your cell phone, but it can be done from your desktop. I just linked mine to my Facebook page and will eventually link it to this blog site. To learn more about Twitter, check out http://twitter.com/home and just follow the directions. It was pretty simple.
The world of communication and social networking are changing rapidly—and will continue to change. Hang on to your hat! I remember being at a radio conference in the early ‘90s and the presenter telling the audience that in the future, people would be carrying around mobile phones that would do everything from pay your bills, check your personal schedule to listening to music. I was skeptical back then. I have learned how to listen a little better since then.
Where the communication industry goes from here, I’m not sure. But, I do know that I don’t want to be left on the sideline. Being in the business of communication, my livelihood relies on me being involved in what’s happening in the communication arena. Plus, it’s really cool when I know something that my 16 year-old doesn’t! Can’t wait to tell her I’ve been Twittered.