GlocalNet

This week I’ve been at the Innovation3 conference and I really enjoyed it a lot - as I was reflecting about it I realized that I am very grateful for so many people I’ve come to know through Leadership Network and my big hero Bob Buford.  LN just celebrated 25 years and it was a great event. 

Ed Stetzer is one of those that I am grateful for.  You can go to edstetzer.com today and see my lecture notes from the Innovation3 Conference.  He just rocks! How a statistician theologian can present and leave you asking for more is truly miraculous.  Ed must be a closet Pentecostal!  I’ve watched up close over time, he’s the real deal.

Neil Cole is a real deal legit disciplemaker.  I connect our guys with him all the time, be they organic or hydrolic!  He told me he’s in a “shift” mode right now about engaging society, etc. 

Mark Driscoll.  Most people love him for his theology - I just love him for him.  I saw him briefly but it gave me great joy just to hug his neck.  Underneath that sometimes coarse exterior is a sweet little puppy dog, sometimes. . . . . !  I should know.  Help us Jesus!

Kenton Beeshore at Mariner’s in southern Cal.  He’s got to be one of the kindest gentlest men who is a mega-church pastor I’ve ever met.  He and his wife remind me of Nikki and I a lot, very adventuresome and wanting to change the whole world. 

Brian Bloye.  Brian doesn’t make a lot of fuss - he just plays ball.  He’s now started over 28 churches in the past 3 years - not bad dude.  He’s humble, non-assuming, but always moving forward aggressively. 

Dave Ferguson.  He is another one of those guys that is humble but incredibly sharp.  He has the mind of a management shark, but the heart of a Jesus freak.  He’s always open and learning.

Dave Gibbons.  Dave is a dang hypocrite!  When I’m with him with Asians he talks about being Irish.  When I’m with him with Anglos he talks about being Korean.  Make up your mind Dave!  Seriously, I consider him one of the best friends I have on the face of the earth and would go in any foxhole with him.

John Jenkins is my pastor.  I’m in his covering group.  He’s been a support, an encouragement, and a challenger all along the way the past 3 years.  I’m very, very grateful God brought him in my life. 

Eric Swanson.  He was out there before others singing his song and talking his stuff.  I’m grateful for him and all he’s done over the past few years. 
There’s a lot more - these are just some - but I love all you guys.  We certainly don’t agree on everything - but we sure have a dang good time when we get together.  Some of you love cigars, some beer, a couple of you Jesus - but I love you all!