Friday 5: I'm Better Because of...

5 people at NMC that make me look good on a daily basis:

1. Janelle Prenkert - I often want to say, "We are the Senior High Pastors at NMC" in reference to Janelle and I. Through the years, she has been the co-leader on missions trips, my administrative assistant, the youth pastor to the gals, and all around queen of the ministry. When Dave Engbrecht sat me down in 1999 and talked to me about coming on full time, he wanted to make sure my intentions were to marry Janelle. He wasn't that interested in getting just me, the package deal was a lot sweeter. I wholeheartedly agree.
   
   
2. Kristy Mikel - Kristy is our main administrative assistant in Student Ministries. I can't tell you how many things Kristy has served as the hands and feet in accomplishing our mission. Mailings, brochures, slides, notes, decoration, announcements, creative elements... they all run through her at some point. Kristy is a former student, a some-day overseas world-changer, and for now a key part of our team.
   
   
3. Cindi Lantz - Cindi serves as a our Small Group Leader Coordinator. Our Small Groups are, by far, the healthiest weekly program we have running right now. Cindi is a major reason why. She leads, trains, and cares for our Senior High Small Group Leaders in a relational manner that is contagious and effective. Her efforts and gifts allow me to be freed up in so many ways it's ridiculous.
   
   
   
4. Jason Thompson - Middle School Pastor currently focused on our Preteen program, Jason is yin to my yang. We've served together at NMC for 8 years now (I think he's been here that long). He's an awesome strategic mind that thinks through details and ditches that I desperately need. He can find something that's not working, and figure out how to fix it. Most importantly, he's been a great friend in all of this. I love knowing that my office is next door to his. (not Jason's actual hair in photo)
   
   
   
5. Chris Lehane - Our Junior High Pastor is the "new kid on the block." But I'd say 3 years is enough for him to call this home. Chris is leading our Senior High PhillyGO trip this Summer. Chris has taken the full reigns of our Junior High Program. I have little need to micromanage Chris because of his vision and leadership. Chris is a relational animal and musical whiz on top of it all.

I love being a part of a team. The cool part about this post is that I have to give you 5 more people next week in order to be fair and mention all who are so key!

Friday 5: Learned/ Am Learning

Wednesday Night was week 5 of 6 in our "You Fill in the _________" series. The topic chosen for the night was "Stress and Depression". There was some great questions asked about how a Christian should view and respond to stress and depression. Due to the obvious ties between loss, grief, stress, and depression, I took a little different approach to the night, and shared from my own life over the past 3 weeks...

ER's Final Season

Don't know if you caught it (read, don't know if you have completely avoided NBC this season), but ER is in it's last season. Every time one of the ads come on stating this fact, Janelle and I will make some comment. Below is a sampling of some of those comments...

"Finally."
"Yes."
"Is ER still on?"
"Only about 14 seasons too late (the show deserved a one season chance)."
"Who still watches that show?"
"I'm pretty sure none of the original cast is on that show. I wouldn't know since I don't now or ever have watched the show."
"I can barely handle the commercials..."
"Worst. Show. EVER!"

Thanks Facebook Updates!

Janelle worked Monday instead of today, leaving the whole family home for a Thursday. We hatched a plan to head over to wanawaves in Shipshewana only to discover they aren't open during the week in February. So, last night we found ourselves trying to figure out something to do on a February Thursday with a 15 month old.

Enter Twitter and Facebook Updates. I pulled out my cell phone and sent this message to my Twitter account (which was immediately forwarded over to my Facebook Updates)...

I need some ideas on where to take a 15 month girl old for some fun on a thursday in february.

This morning, I discovered 11 comments all containing ideas. There were a couple oddities (Wendy's and the woods didn't really get me too excited). In all, we had some great thoughts thrown our way.

We settled on heading into downtown South Bend to check out the South Bend Chocolate Cafe right next to the College Football Hall of Fame. There's a great playland there. We ate lunch, played in the little AND bigger playland, and had some chocolate treats. It was a great time together for the three of us.

Youtubesday on Wednesday: A Good Laugh

If you aren't one of the 12 million who've viewed this, enjoy! If you have seen it, watch again as David deals with the effects of anesthesia...

Something I heard last night

I'm far from a fan of polarizing politics. In fact, as you read through my blog posts, you may note a generally neutral party feel concerning American Politics. I've been raised in a very right leaning community and family. I have several friends and acquaintances who love Jesus and consistently vote democrat. I have passions and political views that span from left to right. As stated before, my hope and belief is not in a kingdom of this world, but in the ultimate Kingdom of God, and that is where my party allegiance rests (I guess I kind of am a fan of polarizing politics in the end).

So, all that to say that my short rant to follow is not about party lines. There were several things I heard from Barack Obama last night that I agreed with and was encouraged by.
BUT, there was one statement that made me stop and say, "Whaa...?" (picture such a confused face that I can't finish the word with the "t" it needs).

It was a simple sentence.

The flow of credit is the lifeblood of our economy.

Really? That's our lifeblood.? Is credit not a more soft word for debt?

Now, I'm not one to say all debt is wrong all the time. To say that, I really shouldn't be a home owner right now, there's no way I could have gone to college, and I couldn't have ever owned any cars.
Yet, it's the lifeblood of our economy? Well, maybe it is, but maybe that's also why our economy is so screwed up!

Misconceptions

We're pretty excited about have Walt Mueller from the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding (CPYU) here March 27-28 for our Understanding Today's Youth Culture Conference (read more about it here).
As a prart of the promotion, we are highlighting the event in our upcoming church newsletter. Several of us are answering questions to help explain why the value of the event.

My Question was: What are some of the biggest misconceptions adults make about today's youth culture?

My Response Was:

Speaking from personal experience and interaction, three misconceptions come to mind...
1. Today's youth culture is does not value older generations. More than ever, I hear today's youth express a deep value in their relationship with their parents or grandparents. There are definite tensions, but students are quick to point to parents as the most influential individuals in their life.
2. Today's Youth Culture has no desire to be influential. I'm seeing a generation that wants to change the world, and truly believes they can. Many have no idea how they can accomplish this, but they are hungry to make an impact.
3. There is no spiritual hunger or interest in today's youth. Quite to the contrary. I believe this generation has more interest in spiritual things than ever. The greatest need is not addressing spiritual indifference, but instead giving spiritual direction toward the Way, the Truth and the Life.

At the core of all these misconceptions is a cultural change between generations. Each generation will tend to look at the current youth culture and say, "That's not the way it was when I was a teen." If we look at these differences only based on externals, we may misunderstand what's really going on. We need to look deeper at the soul of the youth culture. That is exactly what will happen March 27-28 at "Understanding Today's Youth Culture."

Growth

These past few weeks have reminded me that real growth happens in the valleys over on the mountain tops.

I can't even begin to wrap my mound around all that is going on inside me, what I'm learning, and how this is all shaping me for "what's next"... frankly, I don't think it's time for me to try to wrap my mind around it all. But I know it's there, and it's happening.

I don't want pain, suffering and loss in my life. I'm not one to seek it out. But today, I'm reminded that it doesn't help to run from it when it's there. I'm leaning in, and it's good.

Not fun.
Not safe.
Not what I wanted.
But it's good. He's good.

Funeral Online

There were many out of town who were unable to make it to my dad's funeral. Thanks to the Rodney at NMC and my sister-in-law's nephew, we've been able to put the video up online.
For some reason, a gray box appears in the center of the video if you use Firefox. To get rid of it, just click on the video twice to go to full screen.

Go here to view it.

New Polls

A few new polls for this week on the side bar. Vote Away!

Movie Weekend

Thursday: Wall-E

For some reason I kept putting off seeing this movie. I finally got it at Red Box and checked it out during a Katylynn nap Thursday (actually she joined me for the last 30 minutes). I love the evolution of Pixar movies. I don't think they've really made a big-time dud yet. They are ridiculously creative in their story telling, and somewhat profound in their message. Wall-E didn't disappoint me. In fact, I put it up there with the original Toy Story and the Incredibles, just below Bug's Life (my personal favorite).
If you've somehow neglected till now to watch it like I have, it's definitely worth renting.


Friday: Paul Blart: Mall Cop
A couple of Senior Small Groups watched Katylynn and forced Janelle and I to go on a date Friday. We were both in the mood to watch a little senseless comedy, and Blart footed the bill. Far from Cinematic genius, this movie was made by Adam Sandler's company, and Kevin James was Sandler's stand in as the star.
I shook my head a few times in disabelief but approval. I laughed out loud. The story line made some really weird jumps, and there were several moments I foung myself saying, "This is stupid," but I was laughing while saying it. It was enjoyable. Yet, it I wouldn't recommend paying full ticket price unless you were in a mode like we were, or going with a group of people.



Sunday Night: Taken
I guess this movie can best be summed up with two words, "Daddy Vengence". Liam Neeson's character made Jack Bauer look like a compassionate panzy. It was an intense action flick with a little Bournesque quality to it. If you have a daughter, you will likely find yourself pulling for the dad (however over the top he goes). It was worth seeing.

Final Rankings.
1. Wall-E
2. Taken
6. Paul Blart: Mall Cop.

Silent Auction... The Final Day

This is the video that was put together by our students to help get an understanding of the history of Rwanda, as well as explain what Rwanda Night is all about. It's very well made, and worth watching...


Today is the final day for the Rwanda Night Silent Auction. All bids from this morning's service will be updated by 2:00 p.m. There will be no further updating at that point. If you want something, be sure you've bid ridiculously high enough!

GO HERE and Bid!

Friday 5: Rwanda Night

5 Things you need to know about Rwanda Night and the Rwanda Exodus Conference.

1. STUDENT LED: Of the three nights we've done like this (Maasai Night, Kenya Night, Rwanda Night) Rwanda night has had the best quantity and quality of student buy-in by far. The understand the cause and they've given sacrificially of themselves significantly.
2. PRIMARY FUNDING: The Funds raised through NMC Student Ministries will serve as the primary funding for the actual event. Caleb Bislow has chosen against promoting this event through other funding streams.
3. ONE OF OUR OWN: Moody Bible Institute Freshman and NMC grad Dustin Eby played a key role in both Maasai Night and Kenya Night. This Summer, he will be playing a primary role in the Exodus conference as he will be traveling with Caleb Bislow to Rwanda.
4. AUCTION STILL GOING: The Silent Auction officially ends this Sunday Night. The items will be in the NMC Grand Hall this Sunday a.m. for live bidding. High bids will be placed online following the service, and will be the final update. Online bids will be accepted till 11:59 p.m. Sunday, February 22. If you want an item, make sure you're confident in your bid Sunday afternoon!
5. MORE TO COME: Rwanda Night only serves as the beginning in this. We will seek to continue to lay a foundation of prayer for this conference that will take place in late June. Little prayer, little power. Much prayer, much power.
   

Friday 5: Scripture

5 Verses/passages of scripture that remind me of my dad...

1. Proverbs 10:9 The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.
2. Micah 6:8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
3. James 1:19-20 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
4. Philippians 2:4-5 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
5. Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Rwanda Night Reflections

It was an awesome night on many levels.
Hundreds of students played a role in the three-fold effort (raise awareness, prayer support, financial support).

The student leadership team did the night with excellence.

My dad's death caused me to remove myself completely from the preperation of Rwanda Night. In my absence, our staff picked up some of the responsibility, but our students did the most.

As a part helping people understand the heart of the Rwanda Exodus, we used Skype to bring Caleb Bislow live to those in attendance. It was creative and valuable. Read Caleb's thoughts as well as his responses to the questions asked here.

The Silent Auction runs through next Sunday. There are still many things available at ridiculously good deals. Check out www.rwandanight.com to bid.

Grieving through a 15 Month Old's Eyes

(pic taken in Ludington, Michigan; April, 2008)

2 Stories:

1. Janelle briefly had Katylynn at the viewing (it was closed casket). There was a video with pictures of dad running. As Janelle was walking out, Katylynn pointed at the screen, then shrugged her shoulders as if to say, "Where's Grandpa?"
   
2. After everyone had left the graveside service, I took Katylynn with me to the grave site. I told her that we were saying goodbye to Grandpa and that he loved her very much. I bent down by the flowers, and she grabbed one. I told her she could put the flower on the casket by the others that were there. She did so. I asked her if she wanted to say goodbye to Grandpa. She waved goodbye.

Katylynn Ivy Prenkert (note her initials) will not remember either of these events, but I'm glad we will be able to share with her how much she loved her grandpa.

Rwanda Night is Tonight

6:00 p.m. the Auction and Bake Sale are underway in our Fieldhouse.
6:30 p.m. the program kicks off in the Gym.

Our students have a plan in place that has the makings for a fun, informative, and inspirational night.

Nearly $1000 were raised through the past two nights in Dodge Ball!

There are some great things available in the Silent Auction. Go bid now. Don't wait. Help get some of this items at the point that they are "ridiculous" (and I don't mean cheap!)

25 Random Things about my Dad

1. Born and raised in Galien, Michigan.
2. Played basketball for New Troy High School and Bethel College.
3. First time he went home with my mom to meet my grandparents, he was coming as a friend of my mom's date. That night, my Grandma told my mom that Kip was the guys she should be dating.
4. My mom once wrote my dad a love letter while they were dating. My dad gave it back to her later, and the letter was marked up with red ink identifying all the grammar errors (mom saw the joke in it, and laughs about it still).
5. Was left handed.
6. Upon investigation, I found out he had checked out approximately 90 books from the Nappanee Public Library since 2007. He only went to the Nappanee Library if Wakarusa didn't have what he was looking for.
7. He hated being in his bare feet. My mom once joked that she had never seen my dad naked because he always had socks on.
8. He ran the Nappanee Little League for several years during the early 70s. It was a daily "pick up" set up rather than the sponsored teams you see now.
9. He was the head of the English Department in his final years at NorthWood. He was told me that he struggled giving the classes where there would be more "challenging" students to the other teachers; so he would take one exceptional class of students, and then give himself multiple challenging classes.
10. Always took his lunch when he went to work. He would use the same paper bag as many times as he possibly could.
11. Speaking of my dad's frugality, his friend Mike told us about a trip to Lake Michigan where they stopped at a gas station. Dad went to the counter and asked if he could pay less for his Coke if he bought it warm instead of cold.
12. He did my taxes for me every year since I started at NMC.
13. I don't think I ever saw him yell at my mom.
14. He had a old red chevy car where the floor had rusted through. On rainy days, we had to dodge puddles to keep from getting wet.
15. He loved dogs. Any time we traveled, Janelle and I would leave Barnabas with mom and dad. Every time we got him back, it was clear he had been spoiled like a grandchild would be.
16. Die hard Cubs fan, and also a fan of the Tigers.
17. He always wore glasses. I don't think he ever owned a pair of contacts.
18. With my mom being a small business owner, he did the majority of cooking and laundry at our house.
19. If you went to a restaurant with him, he'd pretty much always order the Hamburger.
20. He didn't watch movies or television, unless it was a sports movie, or an adaptation of his more favorite books.
21. He said that the only movie that was better than the book was "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest."
22. He was virtually unstoppable at Trivial Pursuit and Jeopardy.
    
23. I can't remember the last time expressed an ounce of disappointment toward me.
24. He didn't put his seat belt on Friday, February 6. I wish he would have.
25. His life leaves no doubt in my mind where his eternity is set.

Rwanda Night Silent Auction

Today I highlight 3 ridiculously great deals...

B9 - Date Night: Home Edition (Blockbuster)

Includes:

$10 Blockbuster movie card
$10 Dairy Queen gift card
IBC Root Beer & Cream Soda
Popcorn & Assorted Candies

HIGH BID - $20 (That's right, the high bid is equal to the gift cards)

J7 - Diamond Necklace

Diamond pendent necklace

Valued at approx. $300 (we took it to get appraised)

HIGH BID - $80 (yes, you read that right)

M4 - Antique Desk

Desk was purchased in 1940s & used for family business.
Dimensions: 30.5" tall, 43" wide, 22" deep

HIGH BID - $50

Head over to rwandanight.com and check everything out.

Dodgeball for the Sake of the Call

Last night was just what I needed. The new edition to our Student Ministries missions focused drive (a.k.a. Rwanda Night) was a dodgeball tournament. Monday Night was the Senior High.
The setup was simple...

• Teams of 7-11.
• Each individual has a $3 entrance fee.
• Guys and gals tournament.

The added twist was that each person on a team could buy back in to the game for $1 during each game.

The night was a huge win on several levels.

• It was fun. People laughed and played.
• It was outreach. There were several individuals who don't come to NMC who particpated.
• It raised financial support for the Rwanda Exodus... all said and done, close to $500.
• It was student initiated and led. Students came up with the idea. Kathleen (senior), Cody (Junior), and Dylan (8th Grade) put the plan together and executed it. Austin (senior) set up the sound system and got the room ready. The only adult roles were Geoff and Jeff as our refs.

The Middle School is playing tonight. I'm so stinkin' proud of our students for stepping out and getting involved in something bigger than themselves.

Enjoy the pics from the night (taken by me... I'm far from a photographer)

A Message I Needed to hear

I watched a message on DVD today. Here's some of the things I heard from the speaker...

• You see in the midst of uncharted territory, I may be in a season of preparation of something greater to come… whether it’s exciting stuff that’s happening, or it’s tough stuff, I could be in preparation for what’s next.
• Life is basically a series of events that prepare us for the next event.
• What God is taking me through right now may very well be preparing me for what’s next.
• When it comes to perspective in uncharted territory, it’s really about wearing the right glasses.
• God is omniscient. He’s All knowing. He knows everything going on. He knows how I feel. He knows the frustration. In fact, he may know it better than I know it myself.
• There’s two things we’ll often pray.
  The first is, “God do you even care?” and the answer is “more than you know”
  The second is, “God where are you?” and the answer is “RIGHT HERE.”
• He may give a glimpse of His perspective, or I may just have to trust him.
• Two big questions, “What is he preparing me for? Will I seek his perspective?”

The message I shared Sunday, January 25 was one of the tougher messages for me to get ready. It just wasn't clicking for me heading into that Sunday like others had.
Re-listening to myself today was rather surreal. God was using 3-weeks-ago-Derry to preach to hear and now Derry.

Posting this Week

You will likely see 2-3 daily posts from me this week. These posts will center on 2 categories.

1. My Dad.
2. Rwanda Night.

For right now, that's where my focus is. I'll share a little about those things through the blog.

We'll get back to some of the other categories in the weeks to come.

Rwanda Night Silent Auction

The auction has been underway for 24 hours. My hope and desire is that individuals who are interested in any items will go and bid ridiculous amounts on those items in light of the ministry these items will benefit.

I want to daily highlight some of the items that are being auctioned. (Go to rwandanight.com to see how you can place your bids)

Today, items out of the S (Services) category...

S6 - Paint A Room

This 12th Grade Girls Small Group will come paint a room for you!
When: Saturday, March 14th!
You provide the room & the paint...they'll provide the work!
My wife will play the role as the painting foreperson (she's a good painter)... there is currently NO BIDS on this item!

S10 - Yard/House Work for a Day

This 9th Grade Guys Small Group will donate themselves for one Saturday.
House work, yard work, you name it!
Current HIGH BID - $50 (that's ridiculous, but the wrong kind of ridiculous!)

S4 - House Cleaning

Saturday, March 21st
We will clean your entire house for you!
(All cleaning products used are environmentally safe)
Donated by 11th Grade Girls Small Group
HIGH BID - $25 (Oh my!)

S13 - Senior Picture Package

Senior Picture Package with photographer Janelle Prenkert.
Photo Folio included.

Current HIGH BID - $60 (I happen to know the photographer, she's good. This package is worth at least 3x this amount!)

Again, check out rwandanight.com to place your bid.

Remembering Dad - Jamie's comments

Below is what my older (middle in birth order) brother Jamie shared at the funeral. Again, whether you knew dad or not, some great writing that may very well inspire you to live life to the fullest.

Funeral Tribute to
Kip Prenkert (July 4, 1943 – February 8, 2009)
By Jamie Prenkert
February 12, 2009

Contentment (or Why My Dad Didn’t Care What You Thought of Him)

In the fall of my 8th grade year, my dad bought me a new winter jacket. I saw it in the mall and just had to have it. It was classically 80s in style, a hint of Members Only crossed with a little of Michael Jackson’s shoulder padded badness. And it was giant black and red gingham. I thought it was SO COOL.

I was tragically mistaken.

It didn’t take me long to realize that and I abandoned the jacket during that very same winter season.

I don’t remember how much that jacket cost, but I know it could not have been terribly expensive. You see, my mom was a master seamstress and she could not abide retail prices.

I vividly remember childhood shopping trips: “Those jeans cost $35!?! With a yard of denim and a few feet of yellow thread, I could make them for less than 5.” Or “The sewing machine at my store can put a horse on the front of your shirt for free.” (Take that Ralph Lauren.) Or “That full suit of chain mail armor costs how much?!?! If we go scavenging through the dump for surplus metal, I borrow a soldering iron, and put my heaviest duty needles on the sewing machine . . . .” Well, you get the picture. It was a bit like browsing Best Buy with MacGyver. As a result, we were frugal about clothes purchases.

Dad was nothing, if not a leader by example. So, you can imagine my mortification when, as a ninth grader attending a cold late-October NorthWood football game, I saw him saunter up the bleacher stairs in that very same red and black gingham coat.

We never spoke about why he was wearing that coat. But, I didn’t have to ask. His old winter coat had grown ragged and thin. Dad wasn’t about to let the investment in a perfectly serviceable coat go to waste. So, he proceeded to wear it for the next eight or so winters.

Sadly, at the time, all I could muster was embarrassment about how clueless I thought he was. Over the next several years, as I matured and viewed his actions more generously, my embarrassment gave way to bemusement. “Isn’t dad quirky?” I’d think and chuckle.

In my adulthood, though, I realized that this episode was not so much evidence of lovable quirkiness as an indicator of something deeper and more profound about the way my dad lived his life.

Kip Prenkert was no dummy. I’ve no doubt that he realized the jacket was a serious fashion faux pas. He just didn’t care, because comfort was the primary – if not sole – requirement he had in the clothes he wore.

For the most part, he couldn’t have cared less what you thought about him. At least not about silly material things, like the clothes he wore, the cars he drove, or that, for a few years in the mid-1990s, my mom cut his hair with that Flowbee contraption that connected to the end of their vacuum cleaner.

Don’t misunderstand me; I’m not saying he didn’t care for people. He cared a great deal. In fact, his capacity for caring could surprise you sometimes. Just ask my wife. In the fall of her junior year she was a student in his NorthWood World Lit class. At the time, Deb and I had dated for a couple of years. On November 16, 1988, he stopped class a bit early to present her with one of his infamous homemade yellow cakes with chocolate frosting and a hearty rendition of “Happy Birthday to You.”

Yes, Dad cared FOR people. He just didn’t care whether people sat in silent or not so silent judgment of his choices. He was much too busy being utterly content in all the things of real value: a job at which he excelled; a home where he found solace, solitude, and peace; sons (and eventually daughters-in-law and grandchildren) in whom he was proud; and a wife he dearly and unconditionally loved.

Yesterday at the viewing hundreds of people filed through a line that passed uninterrupted for a full six hours, paying their respects to my dad. How is it that a man who cared so little about impressing people left such a profound impression on so many? Over the course of the past few days, one recurring comment a number of you have shared with me or my brothers or my mom is that Dad possessed a certain “silent strength” or “quiet confidence.” That despite his seemingly meek nature, he had a steadfastness of spirit -- a strength of character and integrity -- that was both unique and inspiring. I believe that grew out of his sense of contentment and the corresponding confidence that comes along with a life well and happily lived.

Because of that contentment, he lived “in the moment.” So he could find true joy in the snap of the net as a perfectly arched free throw swished through it. He could honestly say that there was no place in the world he would rather be than 64431 County Road 1. He could sit on the floor with one of his grandchildren, literally for hours, playing simple make believe games or telling them stories about adventures in far off lands, and never once give the slightest hint he was bored or impatient.

I don’t think my dad died with any major regrets. Sure, he might be able to come up with a time or two that he should have passed the ball down the lane instead of pulling up for the jumper in a church league game. I imagine he’d have preferred to be around when the Cubs finally win the World Series. If you could ask him, he’d probably also say he wishes he’d have clicked his seat belt across him last Friday as he drove out of downtown Wakarusa. Or that he’d have stopped just a bit longer at the intersection of County Roads 1 and 38 and looked just a little more carefully both ways before proceeding. And I’m sure he’d love to take away the pain and loss that we all feel – especially from my mom. But, I can tell you one thing with certainty: he wouldn’t give a second thought to the better part of a decade of wearing a hideous black and red gingham winter coat.

While dad lived exactly the life he wanted to live, he’d assuredly have loved to live more of it. Nevertheless, I hope he can serve as an example to you, as he has for me, of focusing on those things that are important to living contentedly, ignoring those things that are superfluous to a truly happy existence, and being wise enough to know the difference between the two.

"If there's anything I can do to help, let me know."

This has been said at least 700 times to me over the past week. Rwanda Night is an NMC Student Ministries Event, put on by students, to come alongside a different kind of Exodus in Rwanda.
The major festivities kick off starting this Sunday, and run till next Sunday.
Caleb Bislow is the American end of the vision behind Rwanda Night.

• Caleb is one of my best friends and a strategic partner in ministry.
  
• Caleb's ministry is also something my dad and mom deeply believe(d) in, and have been very involved with.
• I would have been investing significant time this past week into the preparations for Rwanda Night.
  

How can you help? Get involved in the effort to raise the financial funds that may help usher in a disciple-making movement.

Check out rwandanight.com and bid a ridiculous amount on something. In the process, you will be helping me out, honoring my dad, and by far, most importantly, advancing the Kingdom in an amazing way.

Robby's thoughts

All three of the sons, as well as an "adopted son", shared at the funeral. My oldest brother, Robby, posted what he shared on his blog. Whether you knew my dad or not, it's worth reading if you value beautiful writing. Check it out here.

Simple Stories...

Below is what I prepared and read at my dad's funeral Thursday, February 12, 2009...

SIMPLE STORIES

On Friday, February 6, meeting with Carter was the last thing I did before leaving the office. Carter, a senior at NorthWood, had to interview someone and report on that interview for his speech class.

2 hours later, I was driving down State Road 19 toward Elkhart General Hospital, and all I could think about was that interview. Carter’s second to last question was ringing in my ears. That question… “Who has impacted your life the most so far?”

These past few days have been marked by many simple stories where Kip Prenkert was the main character. I have remembered many myself. Some specific, and some general. 7 simple stories I share about my dad with you.

1. Laying in bed while dad read to me. There was nothing like nodding off to sleep with visions of Frodo and the Fellowship fighting the orcs, being whisked away to the magical land of Narnia, or Jerry Todd and his gang fighting off imaginary pirates. Fast forward to last April, and we will hold dear the memory of dad sitting at the love seat in the Ludington cottage, reading Dr. Seuss’s “The Foot Book” to his granddaughter Katylynn just 3 days before her adoption was finalized.
2. Opening Presents at Christmas. Prenkert Christmases never really had presents from Santa. There weren’t presents from mom or dad either. Instead, a strange array of individuals from literature, cinema, comic strips, and the even the political world were our “gift-givers”. One time I think I received a gift from a mythical creature I’d never even heard of (fortunately there was an illustration of the creature on the card to provide clarity). Of course, dad was the creative genius behind this beloved Christmas tradition.
3. At a mall in North Carolina. I can’t remember how old I was, it was definitely early grade school. The Mall fountain had a ledge around it. That ledge seemed to be a sensible place to attempt a few hand stands. On my fourth or fifth attempt that I nailed a perfect one. I held it for what felt like a very impressive amount of time. As I prepared to dismount, I seem to remember hearing mom say, “Derry, be careful or you might faaaaaaa….” My handstand had become a somersault right into a mall fountain. I came up, soaking wet, crying with embarrassment. My dad was right there. I looked at him with tears in my eyes and screamed, “Dad, what do I do?” He looked at me, gave that signature smirk, and said, “Quick, grab some change!” After a look of confusion from me, he scooped me out of the fountain, and bought me a very nice new towel at the nearest available store.
4. Just before stepping on the blocks at the swim meet. He was always there, right beside mom. I’m not sure they ever missed a meet. I would look up in the stands just before putting my goggles in place, and the book would be lying in his lap (but I noticed he had a finger inserted to the page he was on in order to pick back up). I really think dad hated swimming. But in those moments he seemed to love it.
5. The oddities that were dad. Some that come to mind are scratching his back with a fork, wearing incredibly mismatched outfits or placing pencils in orifices on his face they weren’t meant to be. In High School, I was embarrassed by those things. As years passed, I grew to admire the fact that my dad was comfortable in his skin, and fairly impervious to what others cared when it came to “social norms.”
6. My first Sunday Morning Preaching at Nappanee Missionary Church. May, 2006. That morning I would teach from God’s word to nearly 3,000 people. As I got up for the 10:45 service, I looked out and saw dad, sitting by mom. Again, that morning he had a book in his hands. It was his Bible, it was open, and the teacher was now ready to have me teach him.?
7. Dad AND mom. These stories are really incomplete with only our hero. The two were together. It wasn’t Kip. It was Kip and Jeanette. An unstoppable force of love, support, and friendship.

I’m sure all who knew dad could share their own “Kip memory” or “Kip story” as well. It would likely make several of us nod in agreement, smile, or laugh. They are simple stories… but like any truly great story, there’s much deeper meaning.

So Carter had asked me in the interview, “Who has impacted your life the most so far?”

My first answer was not my dad.

My first answer was Jesus. Jesus. My dad modeled and taught me so much about Him.

Yet, Immediately following that response I told Carter that no other person has or will ever impact me more than my dad. I told Carter this impact was by default… he’s my dad. I think any son who is able to spend multiple years around a father would have a hard time coming up with a different answer.

Here’s the thing about dad’s impact on me, I’m struggling to find where that impact was to my detriment.

I share with you simple stories of my dad, but there is much deeper meaning, because each of these simple stories display some of the most important things my dad instilled in me. I am and will continue to seek to live BECAUSE of these stories.

1. Because he read to me, I will share THAT I love my daughter, by sharing WHAT I love with my daughter.
2. Because of Christmas, I will continue to practice excessive creativity.
3. Because of that fountain, Look for a laugh, but ultimately seek to shine the heart of our Heavenly Father.
4. Because of those swim meets, I will seek to stop everything else when it’s time to love and support my family.
5. Because of my dad's oddities, I will seek to walk the path that God has called ME to walk without shame.
6. Because of that Sunday at NMC, I will never cease to be a learner.
7. Because of dad AND mom, I will Love and cherish the women I’ve been blessed to share my life with.

Thanks Carter, for allowing God to use you to PREPARE me for the current uncharted territory I find myself in. You reminded me I’ve been blessed to have an incredible earthly example of our Heavenly Father.

Galatians 5:22-23 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
My dad batted a thousand.

A Whirlwind of Memories

It's been a whirlwind of emotions, planning, preperation, reuniting with distant (in geography) friends and relatives, and carry-in meals (I'm fairly certain a side effect of tragedy is obesity).

There have been some very cool posts we have been shown across the blog world in tribute to dad.

• Denny Owens (dad's pastor for several years) gave his reflections, and asked dad to keep a hoop open for him.
• Dan Weiss (best man in my wedding) gave his reflections from afar, and summed up well what any of us could learn from my dad.
• Andrew Whitehead (Waky boy, former NMC student, and English student of dad) may have captured the heart and soul of my dad as best anybody could in his post.
• Steve Gall (my brother Jamie's best friend through High School) shared his perspective and continued relationship with dad.
• Shelley Flickinger (Dad's Niece-in-law) shows the family man who stretched beyond his immediate relatives.
• Joe Bennett (former arch-rival in basketball to my big bro, fellow teacher with my dad) shares a classic memory about my dad, the teacher.
• WNDU's story (check out the video) on dad that they did at NorthWood.
  

In all, very fitting tributes. This morning I realized that in the whirlwind of memories shared and thought, I haven't had a negative memory of dad creep in. It's not that he was perfect, it's just that I am very blessed to say I had an amazingly consistent, caring, unique, what-you-see-is-what-you-get dad.

Thanks to all for the incredible support from so many. As we head into the official mourning ceremonies, many of us find ourselves ready to celebrate a life well lived, and a Savior now seen face to face!

He Read to Me... A repost

I'll likely be off the blog for a few days. I took some time this morning to look through my blog and see times referencing my dad. He's showed up in many forms here, mostly in reference to the significant influence and impact he's had on me. May May, 2007 the first entry to my Greatest Hits series (recounting some of the most significant moments in my life) was about him. It is reposted below, in it's unedited form.

Greatest Hits -- He Read to Me

One of my more favorite movies is Field of Dreams... the story of Ray Kinsella, who builds a baseball diamond in the middle of a cornfield, where deceased major leaguers come out of the field to play and make peace with their pasts.
I'm a baseball fan, so that plays a big part in why I enjoy the movie. I most enjoyed the storyline that involves Ray's unresolved issues with his deceased father.
The final scene of the movie is when Ray comes face to face with his young father on the baseball diamond. Ray comes to a point where he asks his dad if they could "have a catch."

This picture of a father and son doing something together...
Doing something that the father loved...

My dad is a Cubs fan. We went to Cubs games together.

My dad is a fan of basketball. Many games of "21" played together in our front yard.

My dad enjoys the Great Lakes Area. They have a cottage in Luddington where we go to spend time together.

Most significant is that my dad loves to read. Most any time you run into my dad, you will see him with a book in his hands. He actually takes books with him to sporting events where he will read during timeouts or between plays.

As a kid, I have vivid memories of my dad sitting and reading to me at bedtime.
The Chronicles of Narnia.
Jerry Todd Series.
The Hobbit.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

My dad shared with me his love for reading. I cherish the memories of me nodding off to sleep with visions of Frodo fighting the orcs, Aslan and Peter looking out of those armies of Narnia, or Jerry Todd and his gang fighting off imaginary pirates.

These times of my dad reading to me are significant for several reasons:

1. This is what sparked a love for literature and the arts in general.
   
2. I'm known for being a fairly creative person. I mark the times of my dad reading to me as helping inspire my imagination, and develop my creativity.
3. Most importantly, my dad spent time with me. By sharing something he loved with me, he was showing that he love me. It is through this example I understand a Heavenly Father who loves to share what he loves with me. I understand a Heavenly Father who loves to spend time with me.

If you ever see me, or something I do, and think, "Man he's creative," you're seeing my dad. It's probably the largest element of his legacy passed on to me.

Last Summer, we went up to Luddington with my parents. My nephew, Calvin, came along. While we sat out along the Lake Michigan, I watched as my dad read "Jerry Todd and the Talking Frog" to his grandson.


If you are a dad, what are you doing to share what you love with your children?

As you share WHAT you love with your kids, you are sharing THAT you love your kids.

Prayer Answered

We've been praying for a miracle. I've (and I know many others) have been asking that miracle be one thing. I've been understanding the miracle could be a different thing.

My father has been pronounced brain dead. As we have spent time with him. He is gone from this earth. As I spent some time with him one on one last night, I sensed this was the case. At the same time, the circumstances left us in a place to continue to "watch and pray".

The miracle came in the form of my dad being reunited with his mom and dad, and more than likely taking on Jesus in a free throw contest (I think Jesus could give him a run for his money).

The other miracle will come over the next couple days as he is being prepared to give the organs he no longer needs in order to give life to those who need them.

We have said goodbye.
Although we are convinced his spirit man is gone, the body (except the brain) continues to function in order to donate his organs.
In the next week, we will continue to be able to say goodbye in multiple formats.

It just stinks in the here and now.
It's freakin' awesome in from an eternal perspective.

How do I sum up my dad?

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
Dad, you batted a thousand.

**I hate communicating this over a blog... it's less than an ideal way to communicate, yet I share this so those who care can hurt and rejoice with us...

UPDATE - Late last night we received word that due to my dad's prostate cancer 7 years ago, all his organs except his eyes (corneas) were not qualified for donation. Our "donation rep" fought hard to the contrary.
As I spent some time saying goodbye to dad yesterday, one of my prayers was that I might be able to see the world the way my dad saw it... as I'm fairly certain that he is the only one to view it the way he did. Well, at least until now. Not only may God grant me that vision, dad's eyes will hopefully be granting that vision to someone else.

My Dad

So many questions are hovering and there's been enough traffic on this blog that I wanted to give a brief update.

My dad, Kip, was in an accident Friday about a half mile from his house. He was the only person in the car. He suffered serious head trauma. The next 24 hours included enough reports and twists and turns that could fill a twenty posts.

After some tough turns for the worse yesterday afternoon, We were were informed last night that all signs are outwarldy pointed toward him being brain dead. The neurologist will be here this early afternoon to give us a more definitive assessment. We have taken the past 12-14 hours with the approach to be prepared to let go, but at the same time be praying for a miracle.

My brothers and their wives are here with my mom. There has been awesome support and prayer from extended family, friends and church.

Dad is a follower of Christ.
He's an awesome husband, father, and grandfather. We want him around and healthy. At the same time, we know that no matter the outcome, he will be restored.

I preached it two weeks ago... and we're claiming in trust right now.

8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,"
declares the LORD.

9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Friday 5

I'm going to try going with a new weekly spot here on the blog where I highlight 5 things every Friday. The categories will be varied.

This Friday 5 is 5 things I'm currently excited about...

1. New Life Fellowship Youth - This past Wednesday Night, I headed over to Lagrange to hang out with our sister youth group. I've done this once a year for the past 3 years. Brad Bullock and the team of faithful Small Group Leaders are doing a phenomenal job over there. I was able to hang out with some students, worship with them, share with them about purity, and then sit in on a Small Group. Great times. I love being reminded that God is bigger than our church in the cornfield.
2. Rwanda Night. Deadlines for Donations are approaching. I continue to hear stories of students' hearts breaking for the project, thinking creatively, and giving till it hurts. It's not about the final amount of money raised nearly as much as watching us all step into something bigger than ourselves for the sake of the Kingdom!
3. This Sunday. I think it's gonna ROCK!
4. May Anniversary. It's our 9th anniversary, but Janelle and I are going to celebrate it like it's our 10th with a little trip together. Just started booking some things for it this week, and it got me excited.
   
5. He's not done with me. Do you ever wonder if God has just moved on from you? Like he's saying, "Keep doing what you're doing, but I've not got any new mountains for you"? I'd been feeling that way lately, but the last week he's been doing a number on me. Doors opening for new challenges and new opportunities. I'm excited to see what's in store.
   

Movie Day

I'm sure my personal history with and love for India may be skewing my opinion on this movie, but Slumdog Millionaire is Absolutely FANTASTIC! Hands down, the best movie I've seen in a long time. I need some time to really decide where it lands, but it has definitely cracked the top 5 of my all-time favorite movies. Great acting. Great story. Both gut-wrenching and heart-warming in the same movie. I am far from an authority on Indian culture, but as I watched, I was swept back to the streets of Kolkata that I have walked down, having my heart broken as I met several street kids.
It has just the perfect hint of Bollywood (India's Hollywood), which may come off a bit cheesy if you aren't familiar with it (especially the end credits). It deserves every Oscar Nomination it received, and I think Dev Patel should have been nominated for his performance as Jamal Malik.

It is Rated R for violence and language. It's not near the worst I've seen in either of those categories, but it's an accurate rating.

2 New Bloggers I'm reading

Jason Miller is a pastor (teaches, leads worship, and lead the college age ministry) at Granger Community Church. We first connected when he came in and led a few Wednesdays of Worship with us. We really connected over the span of four Summer Camps where he came in and led worship for us. Jason is a guy i can sit down for lunch or coffee, and walk away challenged, refreshed and encouraged at the same time.

Ryan Yazel is the Senior Pastor at Keller Park Church in South Bend. Ryan was an intern with us through his college years at Bethel. Ryan and KPC are seeking to truly be a transformational force in their community. What's really exciting is the amount of 20-30 year olds (the age that has supposedly given up on the church) that have been or are looking to get involved in a low income area in a significant way.

Why should you read Jason and Ryan's blogs?

1. Because I said so. (not good enough, keep reading)
2. They are two of the sharpest minds I have run across in my life.
3. They are 20something voices of leadership in the American church who will help you see what they (and their generation) see(s).
4. They are both 20something guys who "get it".
5. They are both 20something guys who are wise beyond their years.
6. They will make you think and laugh (maybe even in the same post).
7. Because I said so. (seriously, check them out).

Youtubesday - Super Bowl Movie Trailers

These got me excited...

Youtubesday - Super Bowl Ads

Some of My personal Favorites:

Doritos Crystal Ball (shot to the groin, it works on so many levels):


Cheetos:


E*Trade Golf Baby (Shankapotimus, that's funny!):


E*Trade Baby sings Phil Collins:



Pepsi Max, "I'm Good":

Economy

Last night on the news, I watched a report how retail sales are down significantly. I thought to myself, "That's a good thing. Maybe our excessive American tendencies are being put in check in the midst of this recession." The major point of the news story was that massive layoffs are taking place among retail stores now as well. I though to myself, "That's not a good thing. I don't like it when people lose jobs."

I can't help but find myself asking and wrestling with some deeper questions in the midst of this economic crisis:
As a follower of Christ, is this the most important issue right now, or is it the most urgent?
Although this is filled with uncertainty, pain, and loss, is this exactly what we need?
How much have I become dependent on things over God?
Is this a time I should cut back on giving, or should I actually be looking for more ways to give?

Poll: Week 15

DO YOU HAVE A NEWSPAPER SUBSCRIPTION?

Yes Currently	16 (36%)
Not Currently, but have	15 (34%)
Never Had One	13 (29%)

Votes: 44


CELL PHONE USAGE PREFERENCE:

Text Me	17 (40%)
Call Me	25 (59%)

Votes: 42

SUPER BOWL:

Arizona Cardinals	24 (60%)
Pittsburgh Steelers	16 (40%)

Votes: 40

Listen In

We're currently having a little trouble with our podcast setup, but you can catch last week's message right here.