I'm Orange. It causes confusion but it's worth it. But I'm really, really orange. I had the unreal privilege to work at the church where "Orange" was discovered. I actually sat in meetings with the people who developed it. I ate meals with the man God used to create Orange. I say all that not to brag but to express how deeply invested I am in Orange.
As a matter of fact, I've lost jobs because of my conviction with Orange. The Orange Conference was a place of healing and encouragement for me after one of those difficult circumstances. The principles I've learned through Orange have guided me as I've transitioned Student Ministries from "Big Event" mentality to what I believe is a much more effective and Biblical model of ministry.
Now, as I sit here getting ready to leave for Orange Conference once again I'm so thankful. Years later I find myself attending with a team (both staff and volunteer and more importantly...both church and family members) made up of people as convinced as I am that Orange is the best strategy for Family Ministry.
So after all I've been through, seen and been blessed to be a part of I want to say thank you. Thank you to the countless number of people who make up the ReThink Team. Thank you to the pioneers that forged through the status quo and created North Point Ministries. Thank you to the parents and volunteers who have encouraged, supported, and joined the team to guide and equip the next generation of the Church. Thank you to Andy Stanley for believing there was another way of doing church. Thank you to Heath Bennett, Kevin Ragsdale, Tom Shefchunas and Ashley Kirkman for challenging me while I served under your leadership. And thank you to Reggie Joiner for pushing, challenging, evaluating and risking everything to follow God as He unveils His plan for His Church.
I believe that we're about to see something special happen in Rock Hill, South Carolina thanks in huge part to all you've done and what God is about to do.
I can't wait to be with you all tomorrow at Orange Conference.
