Ice Breaker – Christmas Day

(I’m always looking for Ice Breaker question ideas.  If you have an idea, send me an email at jon@jonstolpe.com.  If I use your question, I’ll give you credit and share your links.)

Question:  How are you spending today – Christmas Day?

My Answer:  I am in Western Pennsylvania for a few days celebrating Christmas with my wife’s family.  Today, I will enjoy time to relax.  I may go for a walk or a run.  I will call my extended family in Texas, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.  I will enjoy watching as family open gifts and share time together.  I will enjoy delicious food.  And I will take time to reflect on the gifts I have been given.

Answer this week’s ice breaker question by leaving a comment. I look forward to reading your response! (As always, feel free to share links.) And keep Stretching!

Merry Christmas

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas from my family to you and your family.  May we all be stretched to find new meaning and renewed purpose this holiday season.

Don’t Forget This Deal on Cyber Monday

The Monday after Thanksgiving has become a big day for shoppers.  Last year, shoppers purchased nearly $2.7 Billion on-line on Cyber Monday.  Cyber Monday was created by marketers to lure shoppers like you and me into purchasing on-line.  Shoppers are enticed with “deals”, discounts, and the allure of avoiding the chaos of in-store shopping.

I don’t know about you, but my family has found it much easier to shop on-line.  We get the things we want and need for the holidays without the pressure of the in-store experience.

Since it’s Cyber Monday and I know you are looking for that perfect gift for that special someone, I thought I should remind you of a gift that everyone wants and needs:

My book, On Track: Life Lessons from the Track & Field is available on-line at Amazon.com for less than $3.00.  This is the perfect stocking-stuffer or gift for anyone.

Here’s what several reviewers had to say about On Track:

It would be very easy for someone to read the title of this short book and think, “I only watch track every four years during the Olympics…this book isn’t for me.” The author does indeed talk about track and field, mostly at the high school level and in a very light and approachable way. But what this book really does is remind the reader that we all are surrounded in our everyday lives with little things that can help us grow, comfort us, or even kick us in the pants. We just need to be paying attention.

The beauty in this book is the way in which the author sees lessons in the little things, like the way sprinters set up their starting blocks. You do not need to be a fan of track and field to appreciate these observations. I believe that the author is more hoping to arm the reader with a few tools to look for lessons in their own everyday events that are relevant to their lives. Intentional or not, the book certainly did this for me. “On Track” then ties these observations back to recognizable verses of scripture. Much as the author hopes we’ll draw on our own memorable stories in our lives, he provides these memorable scripture passages for us to draw on as well.

I wouldn’t read this book expecting to learn much about track and field. That’s not really the point. This is a great little book to have on hand for those times that you find life getting off track (pun very much intended). It is a quick read that I will be returning to from time to time to get back On Track.  Brian S. Willem

This book is an easy read and well thought out. Jon writes life lessons in parallel with track and field events, he leads us from the starting blocks to the finish line. Whether you know track and field or not, this book is an inspiring work and leaves me wanting to read more and more of Jon’s writing. Bravo for leading the pack on your first book Jon!! Chris Vonada

Such a great read! Jon does a great job relating track and field concepts to our lives in this book. Whether coming out of the starting blocks, overcoming obstacles, or finishing strong, he incorporates stories from his own life and his kids’ lives and connects those with things that we face every day.

As a former hurdler and runner, I could especially identify with his stories and challenges and it took me back to my track days. On Track is a great book for anyone who wants to grow, be stretched, and be encouraged in their role at home, work, and in daily life. I highly recommend it. Great job Jon!  Shawn Washburn

Love that Jon incorporates his faith into his passions in life – into his family, his running, his job. On Track demonstrates how learning good, strong habits and practices are a life learning not just compartmentalized into a sport. Great read for the whole family, and would be great as a small group discussion guide. Good job, Jon! Looking forward to lots more from this new author.  Diane Karchner

Jon takes us on a journey with his love of God and his love of running. There are many lessons of life molding these two loves together. You really get a sense of Jon’s dedication to living life to the fullest and enjoying the gifts God has equipped each of us.  S. Young

Jon offers a tidy little book, a parable if you will, comparing life to running at a track meet. Readers will enjoy sharing the author’s personal experiences and will find the extra boost they are looking for to get their life back on track. An easy, enjoyable and worthwhile read.  Matt Appling

In this book, Jon does a fantastic job of teaching both about track and field (for those who are too familiar) and about life. Several key factors from the starting blocks to the finish line help to show you how to keep your life “On Track”.  Joshua Rivers

Go on-line and order your copy of On Track TODAY.

(If you’d like an autographed copy, reach out to me to discuss details.)

Do you shop on-line?  What’s the best deal you have ever found on-line?

Ice Breaker – Black Friday Christmas List

(I’m always looking for Ice Breaker question ideas.  If you have an idea, send me an email at jon@jonstolpe.com.  If I use your question, I’ll give you credit and share your links.)

Today is Black Friday.  The stores will be busy with shoppers trying to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones.  I’m not a big shopper, so I’m looking forward to simply working off my Thanksgiving dinner and spending time with my family.  This week’s Ice Breaker question is inspired by the holiday shopping season which kicks off today.

Question:  What is one thing on you “Christmas List”?  (What would you like to see under the Christmas tree for you on Christmas morning?)

My Answer:  When I was seven or eight years old, I remember making a Christmas List  for Santa Claus.  I didn’t really believe in Santa Claus, but I wanted to believe he was real, and I wanted to get the things on my list.  I don’t remember what I wrote down on the list, but I’m guessing it included toys from the Sears or Toys ‘R Us catalog.

As I’ve gotten older, I’m generally happy with family time, relaxation time, and peace.  I don’t  need a lot of presents.

If I were to create a Christmas List this year, I could probably come up with a few things (some of these are on my Amazon wishlist).  I like to try new culinary adventures (when I have a chance).  I’d like to build a smoker.  To this end, I purchased a barrel earlier this summer.  Now, I just need the kit (Big Poppa Smokers DIY Drum Charcoal Smoker Kit) to make it happen.  We’ll see if Santa comes through this year; regardless, I’m looking forward to the holiday season with my family.

Answer this week’s ice breaker question by leaving a comment. I look forward to reading your response! (As always, feel free to share links.) And keep Stretching!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from The Stolpe Family!

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 

John 3:16-17

Great Expectations

When I was a young kid, my expectations ran high this time of the year – especially on Christmas Eve.  I was so excited to find out what presents waited for me under the Christmas tree.  I can remember laying down in front of the Christmas tree next to my brother as we looked at the tree together.  We would both wonder out loud what was under the wrapping paper.  Perhaps, we were making sure we didn’t peak.  Part of me really wanted to know, and part of me wanted to wait as long as possible to unwrap my gifts, because I didn’t want the feeling of hope and expectation to end.

When I was a teenager, I went to all four Christmas Eve services with my Dad.  I wanted to be at the Christmas Eve services to soak in the euphoria of the Christmas songs and the Christmas candle light.  I appreciated the opportunity to ride back from the eleven o’clock service together.  The ten minute drive from the church to our house was just enough time to reflect and quietly soak in the Christmas lights as we headed home together.  I liked going to the late service as it meant I was pretty tired when we arrived home.  I would fall asleep quickly after I slipped into bed.

The next morning, my expectation level rose to a crescendo as my brothers and I impatiently hurried my parents out of bed so we could open presents.  Sometimes we would eat our rice pudding first before opening gifts, but I seem to remember the rice pudding coming later more often than not.  We took turns opening our presents one at a time.  First, my youngest brother, Erik, opened a present.  Then, my brother, David, opened a present.  My turn was next followed by my parents.  We would take turns in this rotation until all the presents were unwrapped.  We took our time going through this routine.  It wasn’t rushed.  It was relished.  We expressed our appreciation for each gift.  We took pictures.  And we dreamed out loud about how we would use this new gift.  “I will enjoy reading this book by the fire at night.”  “I needed a new pair of pajamas, and these are perfect.”  “I always wanted a skillet with this kind of handle.”  “This gift will always remind me of so and so.”

Things have changed over the years.  I’m not sure if I have become callous to the season.  The build up towards Christmas used to be filled with stories of wise men, shepherds, a virgin, a carpenter, and a baby king.  And now, it seems like these stories and this build up gets too easily crowded out by a rush to finish Christmas shopping, to send out the Christmas cards, and to continue with the other things that normally occupy our schedules.  My level of expectation during this time is not always the same.  I certainly expect the time off to rest and recharge.  I like the opportunity to give gifts to my kids and to others.  And I still like driving around to look at Christmas lights after Christmas Eve services.  Yet it can be challenging to disengage from the busyness of every day life long enough to appreciate the season in the same way I once did.

Yesterday, I was eating breakfast with a good friend of mine.  He mentioned that his five-year old daughter was having trouble waiting to open the presents under the tree.  I laughed.  And we talked about how refreshing it must be to have a little one in the house during Christmas time as it provides us the opportunity to see Christmas again through the eyes of a child.

Perhaps, we need to reexamine our expectations.  And maybe, we need to look at Christmas through difference eyes – through child-like eyes.  Christmas is a time for great expectations.  It is a time to celebrate the coming of our Savior and to look ahead to His return.

“The thrill of hope – a weary world rejoices…”

We live in a world where many of us our weary from the pushes and pulls of our busy lives.  We need to the hope of our Savior.  And knowing this hope should bring us a thrill like nothing else.  It should renew our expectation for what is to come.  It should alter our perspective on Christmas.

As I think again about Christmas, I wonder what expectations Mary had as she journeyed with Joseph to Bethlehem.  I wonder about the expectations of the wise men as they traveled from afar in hopes of finding a great king.  I wonder what the shepherds were thinking as they left their fields and headed into Bethlehem to follow the instructions of the angels.  Were they scared?  Maybe.  Were they anxious?  I wonder.  Were they excited?  I bet.

May we all healthy expectations as we head celebrate Christmas and look to the year ahead!

What are your expectations for this holiday season?  What are you expecting in the year ahead?

Not A Regular Post

A regular post is not happening today, unless you consider this a regular post.  I’m prepping for a trip to celebrate Christmas with family, and today has been a day of running around and getting things ready for our trip.  It’s been a good day, but I haven’t had a chance to post.  I would suspect that tomorrow’s post may also be a little late as I ease into the holiday week.

How are you preparing to celebrate Christmas?

Who will you be visiting for Christmas?

And just for kicks, what is your favorite Christmas movie (or top 5 Christmas movies)?  (Mine are 1.  It’s A Wonderful Life, 2.)  A Christmas Story, 3.) Christmas Vacation, 4.) Christmas with the Kranks (the book – Skipping Christmas – is better), and 5.) Home Alone tied with Elf)

A Cry For Peace

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.  He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:6-7

These days it seems like we’re a far cry from true peace.  Our world is full of senseless violence.  People are fighting.  War wages in different places across the world.  Meanwhile in our homes, we run from one activity to the next leaving little opportunity to catch a breath.  Kids are bickering.  Parents are yelling.  We leave no chance for peace to permeate our lives.

Just look at the news from yesterday – Massacre in Pakistan, a family shot to death in my own community, Siege in Sydney.  And it goes on from there.  Our world seems to be a long way away from the peace described in Isaiah.

If you come from a more traditional church background, you probably will be lighting the fourth candle on the church’s advent wreath this weekend.  It will be the fourth Sunday of Advent.  Many people around the world will be talking about peace.  Isaiah talks about an everlasting peace that will come when Christ, the Prince of Peace, returns to rule.  I long for that peace.  May you and I find a glimmer of peace this season as we anticipate Christ’s return.

Do you crave peace?  How will you pursue peace in the week ahead?

Homes For The Holidays

The Christmas lights are going up on many of the houses in my neighborhood.  Our family usually picks one or two nights during the month of December to drive around and admire the creativity of homeowners in our area.  To be honest, it’s also a time when we ask each other how much these crazy homeowners must spend on the lights and the electricity for some of these elaborate displays.

In the northern hemisphere where I live, this is also the time when the temperature gets a little chilly.  I’m reminded how nice it is to have a house with electricity, heat, and running water.  I’m not sure if this is really a right, but home ownership with these amenities is an expectation here in America.  Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for many in the rest of the world.  Countless people sleep in deplorable conditions throughout the world.  They are unprotected from rain, from thieves, and from general privacy.

What if we could do something this holiday season to change this for a family or two?

This year, my church‘s Christmas offering is going towards building two houses in Haiti.  Last weekend, they showed this video:

Christmas Offering 2014 (Haiti) from CHRIST’S CHURCH OF THE VALLEY on Vimeo.

The video inspires me as I consider helping to change the lives of families in and around the village of Santo Domingo Xenacoj in Guatemala.  For some reason, God gave me a dream to build 100 houses in Guatemala.  If you are keeping track, I’ve helped to build three houses so far.  Only 97 more to go.

I love the faith and vision of this video.  This video was shot early this spring by a couple from our church.  They have a dream to build two more houses for the families shown in this video.  And they had the faith to put it out there for our church to help out.  This summer, our church will be sending a team of fifty teenagers to Haiti to realize this vision.  It’s a trip that will change the lives of these two families, and it’s a trip that will have a major impact on the lives of fifty teenagers.

We need to have this kind of vision.

We need to have this kind of faith.

It’s not just about building houses though.  It’s about bringing glory to God.  I can see it in the faces of Keena and Mike Huss (the couple in this video).  It’s not about personal gain or fame.  It’s about pointing people to Christ.  And this is what inspires me more than anything about this video.  This is what it means to have a mission mindset.

If you want to help out with the Haiti project, click here.

If you want to help out with building more homes in Xenacoj, leave a comment or send me an email by clicking here.

What is your vision for the future?  How does it involve changing other people’s lives?

Ice Breaker – Peacemaker

Each week on The Stretched Blog, I ask an ice breaker question. The questions are designed to help us get to know each other here in The Stretched Community. I’ll provide my answer to the question here in the post, and then you can leave your response in the comments. While you’re in the comments section, see how others answered the ice breaker question.

(I’m always looking for Ice Breaker question ideas.  If you have an idea, send me an email at jon@jonstolpe.com.  If I use your question, I’ll give you credit and share your links.)

This past Sunday was the second Sunday of Advent.  Many churches around the world celebrated Advent by lighting this second candle.  The second candle represents PEACE.  This provides the inspiration for today’s Ice Breaker.  Be sure to read a few more comments after my answer to today’s question.  Then leave your answer in the comment.

Question:  Where do you need to make peace in your home, at your job, or in another area of your life?

My Answer:  This has the potential to be one of the deeper ice breaker questions.  In fact, it’s probably way past the threshold of breaking the ice.  I feel like I try to be a peacemaker in my home, but I could do a better job making peace by going to bat more often for my wife as she interacts with our kids.  We have entered the stage of parenthood where our kids are teenagers, and they are smarter than we are (at least that’s what they think).  Sometimes, my kids don’t follow through when they are asked by my wife to do things.  I could do a better job of backing her.

At my job, I feel like I am often called upon to be the peacemaker between my project managers and their customers when an impasse develops related to scope of work.  I like this aspect of my job as it often seems like I get to come in and save the day for one side or the other.

I often keep my thoughts to myself when it comes to some of the controversial social issues where there is conflict.  In some cases, this happens because I am not fully informed, and in other cases, it is simply to avoid further conflict.  More than anything, my responsibility as a Christ follower is to point people to the ultimate peacemaker.  When I speak up, I want to make sure this is where I’m directing people.

Many think of Advent as being a time to get ready for Christmas.  I guess it is to some degree.  We set up our nativity, our tree, and other decorations during this time.  But Advent was not really meant to focus on Christmas.  It is a tradition created to help us think about Christ coming again.  He is often referred to as the Prince of Peace – the ultimate peacemaker.

Answer this week’s ice breaker question by leaving a comment. I look forward to reading your response! (As always, feel free to share links.) And keep Stretching!