If you didn’t  know, I’ve become involved in a couple men’s groups here in Sarasota, FL. It’s been a real life-changer for me, and I’ve found true discipleship among these men as we delve into life together. It works because we’re open and honest, not afraid to admit our fears and failures, and above all commited to living this life for Christ; whatever that looks like for each man individually. About a month ago, I began writing a book on Spirit-led men’s ministry. Here’s an excerpt chapter:

LOCK-N-LOAD

“I want an Iron Man suit. I’m not kidding.”

-Recent Facebook status update

Seriously, what guy wouldn’t want to be Iron Man? Think about it- he’s wicked smart, has an unlimited budget, is a natural ladies man, and fights injustice. I have to say, both movies (only 1 and 2 have been released at this point in time) exceeded my expectations. The merging of superheroes with almost believable technology and current world events gets two thumbs up from this moviegoer; it also fires me up for spiritual warfare. Don’t worry, I’m not about to expound on the articles and blog posts devoted to the similarities between Iron Man and Christian men. Well, maybe a little.

The title of this chapter couldn’t be more appropriate. Up till now, we’ve been in preparation mode. Your so-called combat training has laid the groundwork for what’s to come; real life scenarios. The stakes couldn’t be higher. You’ll be fighting a battle on two fronts: the Enemy of your soul on one and the discipleship of men on the other. Good thing we have access to the armor found in Ephesians 6 (More impressive than the Iron Man suit will ever be, imo).

My favorite scene of the first film is at the very end. Tony Stark has embraced his identity and proudly proclaims it to the world: “I am Iron Man”. No longer does he have to hide behind the mask like the majority of all other comic book characters. He outs himself, giving the world his unspoken commitment to fight evil on their behalf.

“I am a Christian man”. If you’re ready to stand firm on that proclamation and sacrifice in order to back it up, then you’re ready to lead men. Just one last word before the air sirens and rocket blasts disorient you. If Christ is the Commander of all believing troops, then I guess spiritually speaking we’re followers; all in the same platoon. It’s a pleasure going into battle with you, gentlemen…Wait a sec…it looks like the Enemy just made His first move. Lock-n-load!

For more about men’s discipleship, Click Here

     I saw an American flag on the road today. Needless to say, I felt that wasn’t an appropriate place to display our country’s stars and stripes, and pulled over to pick it up and place it in the compartment under my scooter’s seat. Driving home, a tidal wave of thoughts swept over me. I know many of you have different worldviews and belief systems, but for the most part we share the same common denominator; we’re Americans. When push comes to shove, we have each others’ backs. We hope and pray for our soldiers’ safety, whether or not we condone war. We’re saddened by the latest Gulf oil spill, as it affects the livelihood of our countrymen and endangers the wildlife that inhabits our shores. We the people share these experiences and heartaches.

     Now, despite the patriotism of the first paragraph, I have to begin this one on a more somber note. At some point in time, the United States of America will no longer exist (at least in the form we know). It could take just a few weeks or it may collapse slowly over centuries, but as history teaches, no great nation lasts forever. As sad as that fact may be, I’m thankful for it; it causes me to look beyond the surface level of life and into the world of the eternal.

     If you’ve ever read Ecclesiastes, written by King Solomon (the so-called wisest man to ever live), you may have been left with a cynical, depressed view of life in general. Afterall, this book of the Bible constantly hammers the meaninglessness of life on Earth. If you delve deeper, though, you’ll see a beautiful picture of what real life is all about; worshipping our Creator. I think Solomon’s trying to tear us a new one when it comes to our view of the natural world and its ultimate importance. As a Christian man living in 2010, I’m increasingly more aware of the fact that this world is only temporary (2 Corinthians 4:18), and I’m simply a “pilgrim” passing through (I Peter 2:11) now that I’ve decided to follow Christ. This life does resemble the Matrix (at least the first of the three-film trilogy), and we will all awake from this illusion one day; an illusion we’d be fools to hold onto as the real thing. Btw, the flag turned out to be a beach towel…

   “Hello?” “Hi, is this Evan Dawson?” “Yes it is, may I ask who’s calling?” “This is so-and-so from Starbucks on Honore and Fruitville. I’m calling to let you know you’ve won something in our drawing last month.” “Sweet, thanks- I’ll be there as soon as I can!” As I hung up, I tried to think when in the world I would’ve entered a Starbucks contest. I hadn’t really drank Starbucks coffee since I found out how much I spent a year on the famous burnt beans (astounding/depressing if you take the time to do the math). Then it hit me- before my men’s group started meeting at 6am in the bookstore where I work, we used to meet at the Starbucks located on the corner of the same shopping center. I had forgotten my store keys one day in April and we had to use the ol’ back-up spot. I had filled out a 3X5 card and dropped it in a bucket (I didn’t even look to see what it was for, but saw the other guys doing it and did the Lemming thing).

   I thanked God beforehand for the Starbucks giftcard I assumed would be waiting for me. This was perfect timing! I had planned on treating a local pastor, who frequented Starbucks more than an L.A. soccer mom, while we talked about a future mission trip opportunity. I strolled down to the corner, greeted the teenage girl behind the counter with a warm “Hi, my name’s Evan and I’m the big winner!”, and waited for her to hand over the keys to the register. With an awkward smile, she walked me over to a table covered by a  small army of Starbucks gift bags. ‘No biggie’, I thought- they certainly make enough money to afford numerous high-valued gift cards. As I opened the recycled gift bag, my heart sank and my face mimicked that of a young boy getting the ‘birds and the bees’ talk. I reached in and pulled out a neon orange, solar-powered flashlight. A neon orange, solar-powered flashlight?! I happened to be wearing cargo khakis, so I just placed the thing (which lights up w/o batteries right out of the box) in my thigh pocket and headed back to the bookstore…confused out of my gourd.

   Just about quittin’ time, as I was concentrated on the closing routine, the other employees (pretty much in unison) started stating their case as to why I couldn’t ride home on my scooter due to an oncoming storm.  ’Not in the mood’ was my mindset as I politely repeated “I’ll be fine” until I felt like a parrot. Eventually, despite the increased frequency in thunder claps, they relented and went their seperate ways. Mounting my trusty steed, I looked up to view the inevitable- I would probably get caught in a downpour. Lovely.

   All the way home I could see black death in the direction I was heading. Coming up to the intersection of my final two-mile stretch, I had to pull over and take in the scene. I could see the slanting rain lines to my right and left, and up ahead looked like a scene right out of the movie Twister. I took my phone out to try and capture the panoramic onslaught…’Out of memory’. With the wind picking up, I decided arguing with my cell was foolish, and said this simple prayer instead, “Father, please let me make it home safe and dry”. To my surprise (and somewhat my hilarity considering the situation), God answered, “I will protect you”. I took that by faith to mean I would miss the rain completely, and decided to full-throttle it (which isn’t that epic on a scooter with a top speed of 50 mph). I couldn’t help yelling at the wind during that final stretch. Not really toward the storm in a taunting manner, but like a warrior going into a battle he knew he would win.

    I made it home in the nick of time (literally, there were drops falling the second I turned off the engine), thanked God, opened the garage door and put my stallion up for the night. As I hit the garage door button (after deciding not to walk back outside and around to the front door), I noticed something that never happens (and trust me when I say never because my OCD-like routine forbids certain things)- the door from the garage to the house was locked! As the never-been-greased door is grinding down, I frantically search for my house keys. I pull them out just before the garage fades to black, not giving me the time to locate the right key for the lock- which I also can’t see at this point. Just then, in a voice I’m positive was fighting back laughter, God whispers, “Use the neon orange, solar-powered flashlight“. Good one God

   I’m not sure if you’ve ever thought about this, but God could keep you rolling on the floor with laughter until you needed medical attention if He so desired. Seriously! He created you, therefore knows your exact sense of humor. Indeed, we serve a holy and hilarious God.

If I had a nickel for every time I failed to show Christ’s love in a practical way…when its blaringly obvious…well, I’d have a hellofalota nickels. This priceless, all-to-common and convicting story was shared by Renee, Living Word’s manager, at this month’s staff meeting:

Today I hugged a stranger!

I hate the Atlanta airport nearly as much as I hate shopping at Wally World.  I pushed my way through the crowd, looking for a place to eat to minimize the drudgery of my 3 hour layover.  I asked for a booth somewhere in the corner so that I could do some work.  The only booths available were in the smoking section.  I frowned and asked for a table in non-smoking.  (I live in Florida, everywhere is non-smoking.)  The hostess looked over and found a booth between two single gentlemen diners.  I really did not want to sit there but I did.  The one on my left was friendly enough, but finished and left less than 2 minutes after I sat down.  The other was having cocktails.  He had work spread out in front of him.  Two cells phones, note pads, etc.  It looked as if he had a couple already.  I pulled out my laptop to finish the employee schedules that were already late, and the drinker begins asking questions about my net-book. I really did not want to talk, but I answered his many questions.  He then asked about my line of work, I stated I have a book store.  No detail, don’t want to talk, tired.  He asked what my niche was since there are so many; Barnes and Nobles, Borders etc.  I reluctantly said Christian. One because I did not want to be bothered and two I did not want him to think that I was judging him.  As usual the Lord made a “fool out of the wise”.  He kept asking and I kept answering, but the question that got me was “Do you believe that this is a calling, what you are supposed to do?  I powered down my laptop and had one of the most amazing conversations I had had in a long time.  Now, I saw how many drinks he had, and I kinda wondered what his story was but I did not care, until then.  My “line of work” is my passion.  I love the people that come into the Living Word.  Do I love all people?  I had looked past all the people that I passed in the airport.  I sighed as some stopped in mid traffic to determine where they were going, but I never saw the people.  Did I mention that I was reading, “What Difference Do It Make?  For those who do not know it is a book written by a former homeless man and a wealthy art dealer who have made it their mission to live out their faith.  As I talked and poured out my passion for the Lord and the store, the Spirit took over the carnal.  When I looked up tears where running down his face.  We talked about the difference between religion and faith.  He asked if I considered preaching, I had not.  He asked if he could touch my hand.  He felt like he had met an angel. I told him that I am no angel, I just love people. I gave him a hug and my copy of “What Difference Do It Make?”

My schedules are still late, ATL is still not my favorite airport and I have a million and 10 things on my mind, but I got the opportunity to be what Christ wants all of us to be for just one minute.  In a crowded restaurant with a bar and a smoking section.  When was the last time you where Christ to someone?

I am primal. I am fervant. I will not be held down by the stereotypes this modern world has fashioned for men. My heart cries out from the chasm, from depths I’ve long thought were lost. “Come at me!”, I cry at the darkness. At least give me the chance to prove I am worthy- worthy to be called a man, a son of the King. Bring me a battle and I’ll not let you down. Give me that chance, though all the world has left such things and succumbed to a somber dullness called ‘proper’. I am wild, and cannot be tamed no matter how many chains you put on me. I beat my chest and lash out at the calm ones, the ones that gave up their instinctual rights and caved to political correctness. I will not be bought. I will not be told what I should or should not do- not any more. I am primal once again, the rescuer of those in distress- the hero of my own story. I am a servant to the Most High, and to the shadows I yell with the strength of all those men who went before me- for in those shadows lie the cunning heart takers. Though they may break me, I’ll never bend for them- not in this life or the one to come.  As I’ve said, I fight for the King- the One who made me primal.

Halvar

There’s a trademarked slogan at the Christian store I work for: “What goes into the mind comes out in a life”. Recently, my dad sent me an overview to a presentation he’s giving on goal-setting and personal management. In it, he points out how important guarding your thought life is in the goal-setting process (and in everyday life for that matter). So dad, if you’re reading this, I want to thank you for introducing me to the defender of my mind.

My name is Halvar. I have been guarding these gates for longer than I can remember. I have no memory of childhood, family or how my important, yet sometimes daunting, task began. All I can tell you is that my sense of duty holds fast, especially when defending these gates from all who try to enter uninvited. It’s at those times that I hear my King’s voice and tighten the grip on my sword. He always whispers the same words in my ear, but they’re always enough: “Stand firm, for I am with you”.

Night and day, I am confronted by the most vile, conniving and unwavering horde of beings in existence. They come alone and in groups, their numbers stretching sometimes as far as the eye can see. At times, the onslaught lasts for weeks, then there are long periods of silence, with hardly a passerby. The evil ones are always devising alternate plans of attack. They’ve tried by air and from underneath, but are stopped almost every time by my hand…almost everytime.

You see, there is another force at work that I cannot see. It is the only thing that can totally incapacitate me, leaving me at the mercy of the horde. It’s almost as if the gates themselves have a voice from inside that commands them to open. Since I am not permitted inside, I cannot say for sure who wields this power. What I will say, though, is that the decision of what kind of being is allowed through these gates changes with the seasons. Let me explain. When I am paralyzed by the unkwown power, I still have use of every one of my senses. I can see who is let in, and I can smell the wretchedness that drips from some of them. I hear the wicked schemes they giggle about while they walk past my post. Sometimes my fury rages at them and their plans for destruction. That’s when I hear my King’s voice again, “Stand Firm, for I am with you.”

Please don’t misunderstand me. Some days are extremely pleasurable for me to stand guard. As I have said, some seasons witness many wonderful guests coming through these gates. The invited ones with kind, uplifting words are my favorites. It is my honor to let them through, as I know their smiles and messages will surely encourage their recipients. And as seasons change, so do my surroundings during prolonged periods of welcomed visitors. The air becomes fresher, the grounds around the gates and high walls are greener, and the aroma grows increasingly sweeter. It’s in these times of peace, though, that I realize the day won’t last forever, and the darkness will return. I don’t have to look hard to see the movement and shadows of the unwelcome in the fields and forests afar off. That’s when I take a deep breath, regain focus, and wait on the voice of my King.

If you’ve been involved in ministry of any kind, chances are you’ve experienced burnout (apathetic/lethargic feeling associated with long time periods of a specific activity without time to rest/recharge/reflect). I believe this is normal, but needs to be recognized and confronted asap before ‘church burnout’ becomes ‘spiritual burnout’. I’m not talking simply about valley times we all go through as part of our natural spiritual growth (Read St. John of the Cross’s Dark Night of the Soul
for an excellent viewpoint on this subject of our sanctification process), but a more purposeful turning away from the things of God. Recognizing that the true Church is the Body of Christ (believers), and not the building (which should always have a small ‘c’ in church), is paramount in overcoming burnout.

So why this post? It has been a long time coming, and I hope to convey my thoughts on the matter as clearly as I can. I don’t go to church. That is, I don’t belong to a particular church family at the moment, nor do I consider any one fellowship my church ‘home’. Do I want to go to church? Honestly, no. Do I enjoy church? Parts of it, but for the most part not really. Am I even a Christian? Absolutely, since February 7, 1995, the day I committed my heart and life to the Lord. So why do I feel this way? A number of reasons, really. Some are selfish, others have been cultivated by the present American church culture. I feel the ‘Be in the world and not of it’ line has been virtually blurred to the point of no return. Is that a pessimistic view? Yes. I just can’t seem to shake it. What I see in most mainstream churches (particularly so-called mega churches) does not mesh, in my opinion, with the Biblical teachings of Christ. I could go on and on about particular churches that merely put on a show, deliver feel-good messages, etc., but I won’t. God’s Will will be done regardless of those things, and He and I both know I’m not perfect either…not even close!

Despite the fact that God can use all things for good, I believe the issue of churches leading their congregants and/or the lost astray (be assured, I don’t believe it’s deliberately) needs to be addressed. I recently stumbled upon a comment thread at churchrater.com that both intrigued and saddened me. An atheist named Matt posted the first comment after visiting a well-known American church. His account was very accurate and honest, but his experience unfortunately didn’t disprove his skepticism. I invite you to read this insightful, back and forth thread between Matt and those who felt compelled to reply: http://tinyurl.com/yl3mwva

So am I just another Christian hurling suggestions and insults from the cheap seats? Hardly. Aside from my missionary endeavors, I plan on founding an online church designed with one main goal in mind: Be a solution and not part of the postmodern church problem. It’s time the focus was put back on Christ and Him crucified. Will this sort of church grow and thrive in the 21st century without the flash and pomp Christians have grown accustomed to? I believe it can and will if it’s founded on the solid rock principles of Scripture. What will that online presence look like? I’m not sure yet, but I believe the Lord has given me the name and beginnings of the planning process I want/need Him to guide me in.

Stay tuned as I press in,

Evan (aka Island Minister)

After neglecting this blog like Obama neglects PR (kidding, obviously), I’ve decided to become a bonafide, 21st century ‘Post Master’. Seriously…I think. I currently have only one full-time job since Living Word, the Christian bookstore/ my previous night job, unfortunately fell victim to the lovely recession we’re in (Shhh, don’t tell Wall Street) and had to close its doors last month (Lord willing only temporarily). Naturally, you’d expect me to catch up on some much needed sleep after working 80 hours/week for the past year and a half, right? Maybe that’s what I should be doing. Instead, I’ve chosen to really kick it into high gear and refocus my efforts on Island Ministries (the company I started almost a decade ago that helps fund youth mission trips). My battle plan is simple: Update the website (sloooow process- since I’ve decided to save money and teach myself), plan a summer 2010 mission trip to the Amazon (already in the works), and get back in shape- I do have a wedding coming up in February, you know

Building an empire in 2009 (whether it’s for riches here or the life to come) means getting involved/used to Web 2.0 (I’ve written a bit about that on my stock trading blog HERE). Twitter and Facebook have definitely opened my eyes to new frontiers! Within the past month, I’ve started ‘following’ missionaries on and off the field, and can honestly say my life has been impacted. For real, if you don’t already have a Twitter account, what are you waiting for? It’s free, fun, and in no time you’ll be reading what your favorite actor or pastor ate for breakfast (that’s such a stereotype of Twitter, btw). Oh yeah, I’ve embedded a widget over on the right side of this page that features my latest ‘tweets’.

Still unsure if anyone but me reads this (and I’m o.k. with that),

Evan Dawson (aka. Island Minister)

The Night I Proposed

Where to begin?

God has allowed me to go on yet another mission trip- and this time not alone:) Michelle Demus (soon to be Dawson, though no date has been set) and I, along with pastor Agatha Taylor of Agatha Taylor Ministries in Sarasota, Florida, ministered in Africa recently. Michelle and I left on June 27th, 2009, on what I would call a  trip of destiny. We visited Zimbabwe and Mozambique, ministering at schools, orphanages, hospitals, and outdoor crusades. We were truly blessed by the Lord to be witness of countless conversions to Christ along the way. Pictures of the mission part of the trip can be viewed HERE. From Africa, we went to Paris. This segment of the trip had been planned for months, as I anxiously awaited the perfect opportunity to propose to the love of my life- on our 7th anniversary, in the 7th month (July), with a size 7 ring. Talk about perfection:) The Paris Pictures can be viewed HERE. I could not have asked for a better way for Michelle and I to start our life and ministry together- in the city of love after our first mission trip together.

A lot can happen in a year! Since my last post, I’ve come home (again) from Africa, begun working two full-time jobs (Living Word Christian Store at night and Target in the mornings), and taken a mission trip to the Amazon (view pics by clicking Here. Basically, it’s been a normal year:)

Enough about me- the major events of my life this year have involved my immediate family. You may be asking yourself “What’s different looking about Evan in this picture?”, or “whose that guy with his sister?” Well, my little sister Jenny is ENGAGED!!! She and her fiance Eric (who I surprisingly like a ton and admire- don’t tell him yet) met while on a crazy, 11 countries in 11 months mission trip through THIS ministry. I’m so happy for them and can’t wait to see what God has in store for this amazing team!

Believe it or not, my brother Craig is finished with school…for now, at least:) Since his college career began (seven years ago), he has endured countless hours in the library, mental-crushing exams, and unmentionable parties:) I was so fortunate to be at his graduation from Law School at the University of Florida. He’s gonna be a lawyer!!! (no jokes please- you may need his services one day). Needless to say, I’m extemely proud of him and his accomplishments.

Our family restaurant, Island Time Grill, is still alive and well (Praise God). I definitely miss the people and atmosphere, but the restaurant ‘lifestyle’ is still not for me. As for Island Ministries, the Lord still has not let me allow the vision to fade- It is my goal to always be involved with missions in some form or another. May He continue to guide me on the path whose end only He can see.