Creative Words to Spread the Word

New Website Finally Up

2011-08-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

Point your URLs to www.creativewordstospreadtheword.com for a quick and easy destination with links to this blog as well as to an idea by myself and another of my original members of Creative Words to Spread the Word called In Christian's Life. I hope to bring more to the site as I go along and make it a full fledged resource destination with a richer design. Right now I'm just happy to have it going at all.

New Website in Process

2011-08-23T10:25:00.001-07:00

Hello, I know it's been quite a while since I've posted anything here. There's been much going on in my life personally and professionally.

One thing I set in motion about a year ago was a fully dedicated website for Creative Words to Spread the Word. The reality of the last pieces coming into place should be here very soon now. Please keep watch to this feed for more updates, and thank you for all your patience.

My Own Creative Words: Forgiveness

2009-10-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

For the last six months, pursuing forgiveness to bring healing into my life - particularly in a Christian way - has been a big focus of mine. It revolves around a specific situation that I am not at liberty speak of in detail.

Today I thought I had made a small step toward not just forgiveness but reconciliation in this situation, only to find later that my future actions were already pre-judged to turn out the same as my past actions despite active attempts made on my part in the last six months in a variety of ways (counseling, training, reading books) to explore potentially better ways to handle the same situations.

It's days like today I need to remind myself of parables, some of the strongest uses of creative words to make points about biblical truth. Though told orally to the crowds, they were also transcribed for future generations.

Today my thoughts turned to the parable of the unmerciful servant (see Matthew 18), where Peter asks Jesus how many times to forgive his brother - "Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'" (Matthew 18:22, NIV).

He then goes on in Matthew 18 to illustrate the point by telling the story of how one servant who owed money begged his master to be patient with him, then turned around and tried by force to get the money out of another man who owed him. When the fellow servant refuses, he is punished by being thrown in prison and the other servants tell the master. The master punishes the servant for not having mercy and turns him over the jailors for torture until he pays back what he owes. The point is that God wants each of us to forgive from our hearts with mercy repeatedly, or God will not be happy with us, just like the misbehaving servant.

It's written better in the Bible, and I encourage you to read it there. I don't want to be so creative as to trump a well-written parable.

As to myself, what I have to keep reminding myself is that it is important to work on forgiving over and over, even if reconciliation never happens. It is possible to forgive without reconciliation. Forgiveness is understanding the issue but not necessarily condoning the action, but the latter concept of reconciliation is trying to bring things back together. That is why it is possible to forgive multiple times over... but you're not required to forget. In fact, if we forget, we can't learn from past mistakes. That's what I believe anyway.

I'm not so sure God has reconciliation on the horizon for me on this one, but the hard part is keeping faith while managing expectations. A tough thing to juggle.

My Own Creative Words: Empathy Building in San Francisco

2009-10-08T22:32:00.000-07:00

I found it interesting that when being sent by my company to a seminar about leading with emotional intelligence, which emphasizes empathy among its aspects, that Christ put me in a situation to do a little empathy building of my own.

As many know, I struggle with several medical conditions. Most people don't know it unless I tell them (unless they've seen me at my worst when I can't hide symptoms which is rare). I try very very hard to live a 'normal' life and only ask for adjustments when required.

One aspect of this trip was that it was my first one flying with a new medication that is in syringes. That actually went quite well.

The surprises came at the hotel.

When I arrived at the hotel in San Francisco, the woman at the front desk told me:

"We have you down for an accessible hotel room."

I asked her to repeat this. I'd made a special request for a microwave for health reasons, but I never asked the folks arranging travel to get me an accessible room. She confirmed that yes, I'm down for that, but she couldn't see why I'd need it.

Now I found myself in a bind. I didn't know if corporate requested this. I didn't think they did, but technically someone with my condition could request a room like this. In the end, I decided to go with it and save us all a lot of hassle. How bad could it be?

In point of fact, it was not bad at all as far as what it offered. In terms of communication, it had bright illuminating lights on the wall for ringing phones and a doorbell for the hard of hearing (I originally thought the latter was some sort of panic emergency button for people to get in, it wasn't until the 2nd day I found the strobe for the doorbell). The room was much wider than a standard king size room, as was the restroom with handles against the walls for everything, and a shower equipped for sitting and standing. The front door also had peepholes at two levels, regular height and wheelchair height.

What I wasn't prepared for was how I'd feel emotionally being in that room. My first reaction was, "I'm no cripple!" but then I realized that if I was worse off, this would be a great place as I started to think about all the things offered. Right now, for the moment, the place would be good enough for me. It helped me be a bit more at peace with my own current situation, and empowered me to see my strengths which have been difficult to see as I've struggled with a new diagnosis.

By the time I was done with the trip, I confess I felt very spoiled by the experience. Now when I see someone traveling who is wheelchair bound, or hard of hearing, I'll relate to what they go through and definitely know a great hotel to recommend to them - Hilton Union Square. No, this is not a plug paid by money and I've gotten no swag... the 'payment' was in how my own mind was open to better relate to people in this world.

When It is Hard to Make Spiritual Journaling a Habit

2009-09-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

I'll be the first to admit it is hard to pick up a pen, or a keyboard, every day and commit to doing something like spiritual journaling. I've written on it before, and I'd like to be able to sit here and say it is something I have done every day without fail... but that's not true.

I used to write when I felt led, which was sporadically, especially when very busy from work. This morning, out of curiosity and knowing I hadn't used it in a while, I went to pick up the journal and look at it. The fact it was buried under some computer manuals at my desk (I've had a lot of computer problems lately) was not a good sign.

Sure enough the last date is: 10/27/2008.

Nearly a year ago???

It's also interesting to me what the last entry is about. I don't mind mentioning it because I referred to it in the past in this blog. My last entry revolves around examining things when I heard that my first spiritual teacher, and also a founding member of my in-person Creative Words to Spread the Word group, suffered a major stroke that would quickly take her life. I wonder what she'd think of me, not practicing well what I've tried to preach.

Part of me wants to say it is all the personal struggles I've suffered the last year that have kept me from being the most effective I can. I've been thrown a lot of curveballs personally and professionally. Yet, instead of using Spiritual Journaling to get closer to God and work through things, I threw it aside and locked it away. That's not to say I wandered away from my faith, but I will say I don't think I've been taking full advantage of it.

Why? Perhaps because I was too afraid to face some truth... or Truth.

My journal was started March 2006. It's not quite half done. March and April 2006 are exercises suggested by a book on Spiritual Journaling by Richard Peace that I was trying on my own (but designed for groups). After that, I have a couple entries from 2006 with a single focus then jump to a bunch in 2007 followed by a handful in 2008 with again a different but single focus.

Which leads me to ask, when does feeling led end up feeling conflicted by our own human fears?

And following that, even though this is more public than private, more electronic than handwritten, is what I've just written any less a form of spiritual journaling?

I'm happy to share my knowledge, but I certainty don't want to come off as some type of perfect saint on the matter, because I'm not. We can grow on this adventure together.

Comments welcome.

Blog Expectations - What You'll See Going Forward

2009-09-13T22:17:00.000-07:00

In the past this blog served as supplemental to a physically based writing group, reprinting the group's brochures and for news announcements. These are one way forms of communication. A blog, however, is most effective when working as a two way communication with its readership, to some degree growing and flowing with those needs to fine tune.

The concept of the brochures/lessons will very much be in place, with the encouragement for people to use within their own writing groups everywhere or as self-study. However, also expect to see in the blog items such as:

- Single questions posted for the readership to ponder and respond to

- Exercises that are larger in scope than the brochures (an example might be a one week "exercise event" to actively encourage developing a character, with a phase of the exercise posted each day)

- Reflections on being a Christian and a writer from the blog's author for comment and insight

... and to be honest whatever else may be moved to happen. I'm not into putting limits on myself right now. Let's just see where the Spirit leads.

So here is the first question to the readership: is there anything you'd like to see to better help you as a Christian writer?

Blessings,
Shannon

Creative Words to Spread the Word Now Internet Based

2009-06-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

This is a post to let it be known that Creative Words to Spread the Word is now totally moving to the Internet in terms of regular ministry. Also to clarify, it is my own ministry, and not one that has been run by my home church that I just happen to coordinate.

I am thankful that Wilshire Avenue Community Church provided the resources and ability to start Creative Words to Spread the Word as an in-person, small group ministry - and I may yet work with them for other in-person events - but situations have become such for me that running an Internet based ministry is the best use of my abilities for Christ.

More to come.

Blessings,
Shannon Muir

Founding Member of Creative Words to Spread the Word Is Now With the Lord

2008-10-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

I received news that one of the founding members of Creative Words to Spread the Word at Wilshire Avenue Community Church passed on this morning. Her name was Norma, she loved poetry, and before she was part of the group, she also served as my first adult Sunday School teacher even before I had come to Christ after nearly two decades of teenage through post- college years of agnosticism and struggling intellectually with Christ. Norma taught me that being intellectual and being in Christ could indeed go hand in hand, and her belief and support behind me when I began the in-person writing group at the church was instrumental in my getting off the ground. I firmly believe she was brought into my life to make where I am today with my walk and ultimately this ministry possible.

That said, with the local group dwindling for this and other reasons that have called my initial core team elsewhere, I feel strongly on my heart that I am called to evolve this ministry to be one that reaches out to enable others in need of advice. He just called them to be somewhere else, and now it is time for me to do work on my own. Since Wilshire Avenue Community Church is still my home church, I consider it a ministry home base though it reaches a much wider scope. How that will affect my "brochure" lessons going forward since the primary audience won't be local I still have to reflect upon.

I pray and look forward to what He calls me to do next thanks to Norma's influence.

God welcome you into His arms, Norma... a good and faithful servant indeed.

Bringing Together Writers for Christ

2008-10-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

BRINGING TOGETHER WRITERS FOR CHRIST
Writing as Part of the Body of Christ

How Writing Can Unite People to do Christ’s Work

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BRINGING TOGETHER WRITERS FOR CHRIST

Writing is by nature a solitary activity. As individuals, we are also called to witness for Christ – but we are also reminded that together we are the body of Christ.

Many of the readily available pointers regarding secular writing groups apply to a Christian writing group in terms of organization. The key is always putting Christ in the forefront of everything. Open in prayer and ask him to bless how you critique one another. Remember to set the fundamental ground rule of sharing everything in love.

A Christian focused writing group need not solely be focused on inspirational material, though this ground rule should be set up early on. Some people may only be comfortable in a setting where stories that are heavily inspirational and drawn from scripture are shared, while other groups may be willing to be more wide ranged on subject matter provided it is analyzed against a Christian context. This ground rule needs to be set and established by the membership.

One of the biggest challenges, especially in churches with a small group of writers, is how to keep participants focused and energized. Figure out a balance of how often to meet, too little and people may lose interest but too much and people may feel pressured to produce material and not show up because they have nothing to share. Don’t make sharing a requirement of participation every week. Sharing should always be voluntary, though for the most effective group everyone should share. Recognize that people have busy schedules and everyone may not always attend all sessions – so be flexible!

Your church writing group, if enough interested participants, can also consider partnering for events with other ministries. Personally, one event I enjoyed doing was partnering with Womens’ Ministries. The event was on journal making – the event was on journal making, and I wove in a segment about journal writing. If there are not enough writers in your church to support a group, you see how you can use your God-given talents as a writer to support ministries in this way.

Pray and look to Christ to see what you can bring others together in your church to do for the Lord!

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Do you want to know what you as a writer can better do for your congregation? Journal and pray about it. Think about all the ministries at your church and ways writing can strengthen them. If you identify an area, think of a plan of action and pray over that.

2) Reflect on 2 Corinthians 10. Paul speaks of the reaction his letters (writings) receive versus his appearance in person when he speaks. What inspiration can Christian writers draw from Paul?

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #10
Last revised: October 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Inspired By the Word

2008-10-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

INSPIRED BY THE WORD
Bringing the Word to Our Words

Using the Bible’s Truths to Strengthen Personal Creative Writing

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INSPIRED BY THE WORD

The Holy Bible, also called the Word of God, collects the writings of early servants of the faith to bring its principles and truths into a single volume to hand down through generations. Today, there are writers among Christian believers, who have talents such as those of earlier times but while today’s Christian’s may not be called on to write words with the same level of impact as the Word, they still can use words for bringing the teachings of Jesus to the world.

The question arises for some as to what defines Christian writing, in particular Christian fiction writing. Some people feel that unless they are direct mention or hints at phrases of scripture, then the work isn’t Christian writing. Others say as long as characters exhibit Christian principles or are instructing other characters in Christian ways (whether blatantly or not) then that fits the definition.

Ultimately, this definition in the end seems to fall on a very personal level, just as each Christian has a personal walk with Christ. Also, for a Christian writer, it depends on what Christ leads that Christian to write about as to what will “feel” Christian to him or her.

When scripture references do appear in writing, the key is not to make scripture or tenants of Christian faith feel forced or preachy in any work. The elements should naturally flow from and on the page. A piece of writing must first and foremost be a solid piece of writing, as non-believers are far less likely to follow the message if the story itself is not engaging and credible enough for them.

That said, we should always turn to scripture to daily enrich ourselves as Christians – which in our busy world can be hard to do and I confess is still a struggle for me. In turn this should enrich us as we approach our daily walk in life and filter down without effort to our writing.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Read and reflect on James 1:5-7. What attitude should we have as Christians turning to God according to James? How can this apply to writers?

2) Look at 1 John 1: 15-17. John speaks about not loving the world or anything in it. How do Christian writers struggle with needing to understand the world while not being of the world in order to be relevant? Have you struggled with a personal experience about this? Pray or journal about it.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #9
Last revised: October 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Finding Time to Write... Finding Time for Christ

2008-07-10T08:09:00.000-07:00

FINDING TIME TO WRITE... FINDING TIME FOR CHRIST
Writing as Part of a Balanced Walk With Christ

So much happens in our world it's hard to keep things healthy and in perspective…

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FINDING TIME TO WRITE... FINDING TIME FOR CHRIST

In June of 2008, I made a big life shift. After over a decade in the same studio apartment, I moved to a new one bedroom place. Work schedules were disrupted. Things I knew how to easily find, such as my journals, wound up packed away in boxes I didn't get to for a while. Now everyday life doesn't always get quite so chaotic for most people (and I pray it isn't so for you), but this is a radical example of how things don't always stay on a same even course. For some people this can be very challenging as they do things best on a schedule, or other people just prefer to set aside some regular time to write - but the outside world often gets in the way. People also need to set aside regular time to be with Christ, whether through prayer or immersing themselves in the Word of the Bible. This can then, for some writers, lead to the dilemma of setting aside two blocks of time in a day.

Depending on what you write, the spiritual journal may be one solution to maximize and build on both your Christ and writing time. This solution is best for those whose personal writing topics lean toward autobiography, memoir, and Christian exploration. Converse with Him on paper instead of spoken prayer for part of your time, and see what deeper topics it triggers to write about. Though Christ knows all, sharing things with Him in this way may help you see them in a new light. This works less as a time management solution for the creative writer, but doing something similar in your personal time with Christ that help in discovering topics to explore in other types of writing that interest you depending on what you express to Christ about the world in which you live.

Christian creative writers have an additional struggle in that they need to manage more time each day. While these type of writers grow stronger in their faith through their subject matter, it does not substitute for taking time for a direct and personal walk with Christ. If you are one of these types of writers, you may need to focus a bit more than others might on Christ as your form of stress and life management in order to manage your time. Ideas may spring from your personal time with Christ that later blossom into stories, poem, and song!

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Take a look at Matthew 29. Christ bids us to come to Him in our busy lives not only for rest but to learn from him. How do you feel you can best learn by spending more time with Christ?

2) Look at Phillipians 4:11. Paul wrote this book of the Bible as part of a house arrest imprisonment, and yet expresses that he is "content" with his situation. As a Christian writer, what steps can you take to become more content with your own circumstances?

3) Examine Proverbs 16:9. What guidance does it provide for planning our lives as writers and as Christians?

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SERMON COMPANIONS

Sermons at Wilshire Avenue Community Church are available on CD or cassette and can be ordered at the table in the main entry (narthex). CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD suggests this sermon to order and listen to with the exercises in this booklet:

"Lightening the Load"
07/06/08
Pastor Kirk Mackie
Matthew 11:28-30

Writing is just one of the many things that fill our busy world. Pastor Kirk takes a look at how to make Christ the center of that busy world and look to Him to address stress management.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #8
Last revised: July 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

The Power of Perspective

2008-04-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

THE POWER OF PERSPECTIVE
Different looks at Christ at work in our world

Seeing Christ in various ways can open minds to His majesty and grace…

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THE POWER OF PERSPECTIVE

Most of the time, someone will use their own experiences to share the majesty and love of Christ with others, whether or not the people being shared with know the Lord. There are times, however, when it helps to use someone else’s perspective – or point of view – to get a message across. This is different than just retelling a story about someone else in which you may have been involved and possibly changing names or facts to protect identities. Changing the perspective would be telling events as if you are that person. This can be helpful if you are trying to get the person you want to communicate with to see a situation in detail through another’s eyes and how Christ can be a help to the person you are describing. This would likely be most effective when trying to depict the everyday lives of people suffering from hunger, homelessness, or issues that are physical, emotional, or mental in nature. In order to help someone gain a more compassionate outlook for those needing Christ’s help, this can be an effective way for someone to better understand the issues.

The biggest risk in using a perspective that isn’t yours is a possible lack of authenticity. Even if all the facts are right, if the emotions aren’t properly captured the different perspective will not seem genuine and the receiver won’t connect. Make sure whatever you are saying is genuine, and do not persuade with lies! Also, if you are not clear to the receiver that this is a fictional character representing the kind of people you have encountered on your walk with Christ, the reader can mistake it as being your own experiences (even if the character does have a different name); if they believe incorrectly that the story is about you, become moved by it, and then find out it isn’t about you in any way he or she may feel hurt and not willing to listen to anything else you might have to say.

That’s not to say using your own perspective isn’t without challenges. While it is easier to be sure both facts and emotions are accurate, you also must be sure that you are not blinded too heavily by your own biases. Be open to where a skeptical receiver may challenge you and be willing to go deeper instead of getting defensive and personal; this kind of reaction may also turn someone away from listening further. In the end, it’s about getting someone to better understand Christ in our lives in a meaningful, non-deceptive way.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Contemplate Proverbs 8 and what it gives us to consider when deciding how to use perspective to convey Christ’s truths.

2) Tell a Bible story from someone else’s perspective based on known details.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #7
Last revised: April 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

How Christian Character Produces Character

2008-03-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

HOW CHRISTIAN CHARACTER PRODUCES CHARACTER

Strategies for Character Development in Christian Stories

Characters are important to any story but developing them can be a challenge. Biblical principles can give a starting point …

HOW CHRISTIAN CHARACTER PRODUCES CHARACTER

Consider two Biblical passages - Romans 5:3-4: “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” (NIV) and 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’ Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God – I say this to your shame.” (NIV). Read each its larger context. Both passages emphasize how what goes on around someone can affect their personal character. This must be considered as much when writing Christian stories as it is dealing with people in everyday life.

In storytelling, there are two character levels, main characters and secondary characters. There are three main character types: the protagonist (hero), the antagonist (someone at odds with the protagonist), and the villain (who wants to stop the hero). Usually the villain and antagonist are the same character, but the antagonist does not need to always be the villain, such as two romantic rivals (protagonist and antagonist) fighting to rescue a woman they are both interested in from a third party that they both agree is a threat but each wants her for his own (villain). There are also secondary characters that work in support roles to each of the main character types, such as friends or servants.

Regardless of character type, each character has some attributes that are strong and others that are weak, and the story often involves the character growing by confronting weakness, or that weakness being used to some greater purpose in the plot. God can do the same using character weakness in people’s lives to move people to greater purposes and closer to Him.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Look at a biblical person in a Bible story. Consider this person’s personality in relation to the aspects of what constitutes a Christian character. Where is biblical person strong for Christ, and where do you see character defects? Were any of those defects used to God’s greater purpose?

2) Design a character that you could write about. Consider: physical looks, relationship status, kids, if introverted or extroverted, moral standards, fears, temperament, life attitude, ambitions, frustrations, interests, abilities, occupation, level of education, political affiliation and religion along with the strength of the character’s religious commitment. What are this character’s strengths and defects? Do you see this character as a protagonist, antagonist, villain, or a character that might function in a supporting role to one of these three types?

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #6
Last revised: March 2008

Based on the Prose Workshop of May/June 2006

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Testimony in Words

2008-03-01T22:51:00.001-08:00

TESTIMONY IN WORDS
Documenting Mission Trips and Ministry Activities

From down the street to across the globe, how documenting experiences can change lives …

TESTIMONY IN WORDS

There are people all around the world who do not yet know Christ. Some may know him but all they know is solely the Bible, but don’t see how the Book is equally relevant today. However, seeing how Christ’s teachings impact people firsthand may be the way to make that difference. The problem is, some are unable to see Christ’s work unfold before them. This is why sharing accounts of people’s direct impact in seeing Christ change lives – whether one’s own or someone else’s – is vital. It’s also sometimes not practical to tell people about Christ’s impact on people’s lives in person, and thereby the written word can be used with great impact to spread this message of love and compassion.

Some people go on mission trips around the world to visit people in other countries. This opens them up to new cultural experiences, while showing what humanity has in common everywhere and that the need for Christ is universal. Others keep their involvement more local, working with ministry groups to reach out to groups such as the homeless or those with challenging medical conditions. Also, written testimony doesn’t just apply to taking group trips around the world or into the community. Every day, each of us are on a mission for Christ simply in our individual walks with Him, and our ministry is how we show Christ to those who do not know Him.

Though one general guideline to keep in mind when telling in-depth profiles you intend to share widely: either make sure to get the permission of people whose names you are profiling or change them in print. In some cases, especially in international mission, it may endanger someone to reveal too much about their identity – but his or her story may need to be told.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Think of an experience you have had – whether it was going on a mission trip away from home, helping out somewhere in the local community, or just being part of an event at church. What did you learn from that experience? Write down how you would describe that experience and what you learned from it to someone who wasn’t a part of that experience.

2) If you have never yet been involved in a mission trip or group ministry activity, challenge yourself to try something within your financial, health, and other means. Then write about this experience for yourself, to see what new insights you get from self-examination. However, if you feel led to share, go ahead.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #4
Last revised: March 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

The Language of Being Missional

2008-02-28T23:19:00.000-08:00

THE LANGUAGE OF BEING MISSIONAL
Bridging the gap between what is defined as spiritual and what is identified as secular

The words you creatively choose for your writing can impact who you reach…

THE LANGUAGE OF BEING MISSIONAL

When someone speaks in a foreign language, the words can be meaningless if the listener doesn’t understand the language. A health article written with highly medical terminology may be easily understood by doctors but not patients. The language of church, or theological language, can be much the same way.

The audience of the final product must be kept in mind when writing anything, including Christian works. If the piece is intended for people in the church who are familiar with the language and culture of it, then more theological terms are appropriate. However, if something needs to be accessible to people newer to the church or even the unchurched, then additional care and attention must be paid to word choices. Either different words must be chosen that are more universally understood, or explanation should be provided if no substitute term is possible. However, if an explanation is the only way to handle something, be sure it is short and to the point so the reader is not turned off or bored. The goal is for them to pay attention to the message, not to the definition.

Also, there is the added issue of choosing specific language to reach various subgroups and subcultures. These groups each have their own lingo, or slang, and may be more receptive to people who can speak it fluently and correctly. If someone learns it “just enough” to try and focus on getting just a single message across, this usually backfires in the end and erodes trust.

No matter what people one wants to reach with writing, and with what creative choice of language and style, first and foremost the writer needs to be authentic. Work on building friendships and trust while learning the culture of the intended audience. Getting to know people helps in growing spiritually, as well as enriching one’s writing background.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Consider prayerfully Mark 16:15-18. It calls on believers to go into the world and spread the word. What are ways that you can do this naturally?

2) There may be people you encounter familiar with Christ that have fallen away, some who do not know Christ but receptive, and those convinced He can’t exist. How would you adjust your language to each situation when gearing writings to each set of people? Do you find one of these groups of people harder to reach than the others, and how would you challenge yourself to do it more effectively?

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #5
Last revised: February 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Journaling for Christ

2008-02-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

JOURNALING FOR CHRIST
Recording Your Personal Walk
How a Spiritual Journal Differs from a Prayer Diary and How it Can be a Tool for Your Walk with Christ

JOURNALING FOR CHRIST

A spiritual journal records a personal walk with God, which is different from a prayer diary, which records prayers and the status of each, though these can be added as part of someone’s spiritual journal. Some might say journaling isn’t necessary if God already knows everything, but there are several reasons it can help. It serves as a record to understand and appreciate Christian growth over time. Another purpose is to capture thoughts when the Spirit moves you for later reflection. It’s also a way to work out your thoughts in praying to God.

“Writer’s Block” – which can occur when one’s mind is empty, unfocused, or restrained – happens as much with a spiritual journal as any other type of writing: fear of not using “just the right words” with God, being uncomfortable with being honest, or just distracted by too many other things. Clear your mind of any outside distractions, pray your mind will be open to listen to the Spirit, and if that still doesn’t seem to help, you can choose a Biblical passage to contemplate or try some sort of creative exercise such as trying to retell a story in the Bible from someone else’s point of view, or writing some original praise poetry.

There are journals available that provide a verse or thought daily for one to respond to. Journaling is a very personal process and these may not be appropriate for everyone. Some may prefer or need the structure to get them writing, while others may only become frustrated if they do not have something to say on each day that is Spirit led, yet feel as if they are doing “something wrong” by not answering. If the Spirit is leading you to write about something else, go with that instead of what a page written by someone else is instructing you do. After all, it is your walk with the Lord. If none of these work, the Spirit may just not want to be using the page to speak with you at that particular time, as if to say: “Contemplate things more on your own and see what you discover, and then get back to me”. It is more than all right. God speaks in many ways.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Find a verse or chapter in the Bible that carries special meaning for you. Write down in your journal what emotions or connotations come to mind for you when reading that passage and how it makes you feel in relation to Christ.

2) Consider Psalm 102:18. What is the importance of recording a personal journey with God – for ourselves? For others? Write down your answer if you feel led to.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #3
Last revised: February 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Poetry in the Bible... and Beyond

2008-01-05T21:48:00.001-08:00

POETRY IN THE BIBLE… AND BEYOND

When people think of poetry and the Bible, a few sections of it may immediately come to mind – Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes 3, and the Song of Solomon. It’s true that most of the poetry in the Bible occurs in the Old Testament, but these aren’t the sole places it can be found. Mary’s Song and Zechariah’s Song in the New Testament, and Habbakuk Chapter 3 are poetic as well. They are personal songs of the speakers of praise that make these pieces stand out even more emotionally as part of the Word.

The Bible has also inspired lay poets throughout the ages as a way to praise the Lord. The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, some of William Blake’s poetry, T.S. Eliot’s “Journey of the Magi,” Edwin Markham’s poetry such as “The World-Purpose,” Vachel Lindsay’s “Daniel,” and Francis Thompson’s poem “Hounds of Heaven” are just a few examples from a wide variety of poets. Yet most poetry of the past seems not as accessible to the modern everyday person, as it seems to remain perceived as meant to be for the well-read.

So is poetry a lost art to most people? Not necessarily. Examples are Christian themed greeting cards, and poems found printed in church bulletins, but the main place is through the lyrics of spiritual music, both traditional hymns and praise songs. The Christian music scene is booming, and it doesn’t mean people have to be big acts to make an impact… there are smaller bands that are able to market themselves through the Internet. Some songs even make their way onto the mainstream Top 40 charts, though people may not always recognize that.

So whether you feel in communion with Christ writing poetry or music lyrics (or perhaps the music as well if such is your gift), or just reading to or listening to these praises, poetry can be part of how you grow in Christ.

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Consider prayerfully one of the reading examples from the Bible that’s been mentioned.

2) Listen to a Christian song and do an analysis of the lyrics, and try to discover what parts of the Bible may have inspired it and read that section of the Word.

3) Challenge yourself to write a spiritual poem or song in whatever form you feel most comfortable with.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #2
Last revised: January 2008

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Why Should I Write?

2007-12-05T21:43:00.000-08:00

WHY SHOULD I WRITE?
A Question for All Christians

All Christians are called to witness and writing is one way to do that. No matter your skill level, find out why writing matters to Jesus and to you…

WHY SHOULD I WRITE?

My name is Shannon Muir, and I founded Creative Words to Spread the Word. Since I first formed this ministry, I’ve been approached by people. Some are interested in active ministry involvement to explore their creative gift, others to simply encourage me as “cheering others on” is one of their spiritual gifts. I’ve also met with some people who come to me who admit that they “could never write, but wish they could” or have tried and become frustrated because they were not good at it.

Being “creative” is not just a matter of telling short stories or poetry. You can be “creative” in your own written testimony, simply in the words you choose to express it. That word choice, combined with your unique spiritual experience, is part of what makes it your personal testimony versus just a generic facts sheet. This also applies to how you choose to express items for the monthly church newsletter, the bulletin, or features on the church Web site.

Also, “writing” is not just confined to the written word in its final form. Outlines for documentaries about spiritual experiences, or even scripts for stage drama or videorecording have to be written.

Writers do not have to always do something that is publicly shared. Some people have more of a gift for writing that becomes public expression. Others can use it simply as a tool to further their personal Christian walk through spiritual journaling. So take a second look at what you do every day… you may already be writing for Christ and not know it!

QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES TO CHALLENGE YOU:

1) Have you had an experience that strengthened you as a Christian, either for the good or the bad? Take some quiet time and write about it.

2) Do you have a favorite psalm or proverb? If a non-Christian were to read this and say “I don’t understand what this means,” how would you explain it to them and what it means to you personally? Now try writing those same words down.

3) Consider trying to retell a favorite bible story from another character’s point of view based on the scriptural facts you know.

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CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD

Coordinator: Shannon Muir
email: creativewordstospreadtheword@gmail.com

BROCHURE #1
Last revised: December 2007

Brochure text by
Shannon Muir
Original Artwork on Printed Version by
Kevin Paul Shaw Broden

[The above is a modified Internet transcription of the text of a print brochure originally released by Creative The Words to Spread the Word. This transcription released by Creative Words to Spread the Word. All rights reserved.]

Brochure text soon to be available online...

2007-12-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

There'd already been plans to start putting the text of the older study brochures online as only so much room existed in the racks in the narthex of Wilshire Avenue Community Church.

As of this past weekend, the narthex has been remodeled and the old rack that Creative Words to Spread the Word took advantage of for self-study brochures is gone. It is not determined at this time if an alternate solution for displaying the printed brochures in the new setup will be found. It may very well be that all past brochures and future self study materials may appear on this blog.

Also, a dedicated email for this ministry has been established. Direct contact should be written to creativewordstospreadtheword (at) gmail.com if responding in this blog is not appropriate. Thank you.

Everyone can use words...

2007-11-16T22:14:00.000-08:00

God created words for everyone to use. I won't argue that some have been given more of a gift with their use of words. Having said that, I also firmly believe that with dedicated effort it is possible for people to become better at their use of words - both in the reading and writing of them - and that is part of what this ministry is all about. I refuse to see words as being meant for a few because God gave them to communicate to everyone with. There have just been points in history where the skill of learning how to use words was denied to all but a select group, something with which I personally do not agree.

People can use words in different ways, just like any other tool. Also, like any other tool, they can be misused. That ties back into the prior blog post thought about creative words not being deceptive words. Each of us must be responsible with what is granted at our disposal, and even if we express the meaning of the Word of the Lord in our own way to better show how it is relevant to our own lives, first and foremost we must stay true to the heart of the Word.

"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar." - Proverbs 30:5-6 (NIV)

Creative Words are not Deceptive Words

2007-10-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

God gave us words. In theory, he could have given us only pictograms and oral history. But he gave us the gift to be able to write things down, and in fact at times called people to write things down. He also gave us many ways to describe things, multiple words that can describe things in succinct ways. For example, today a woman at our church performed a song in Spanish and the English translation was provided on the wall. Howver, there was one word she admitted the English language had no exact equivalent for. The best she could do was to substitute with the word caresses due to a need for brevity on the screen, but the songwriter chose a specific word that the Spanish language has for a parent cupping a child's face in his or her hands and holding it upwards for a loving gaze. How wonderful that language can be so embracing. How wonderful to have language to express our love for Christ in written testimony, story, poetry, song lyrics, and more.

Words can also be arranged in various ways to express the same idea, but again how it is expressed can produce a completely different effect. The words, phrases, and sentences each of us choose reflects our own personal walk wih Christ and what makes our Christian voice unique.

However, to be true to the Lord, creative cannot be synonymous with deceptive. While we are free to be creative by expression, Christ does not encourage us to mislead in an way. Where the ability to be creative in our expression is a gift, to use it to twist the truth is not biblical.

"Therefore each of us must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body." - Ephesians 4:25 (NIV)

New Self-Study Pamphlets Available

2007-10-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

The latest self-study pamphlets for CREATIVE WORDS TO SPREAD THE WORD are now in the narthex area at Wilshire Avenue Community Church.

JOURNALING FOR CHRIST: Compares a prayer diary to a spiritual journal and the benefits of using a spiritual journal in the walk with Christ.

TESTIMONY IN WORDS: Whether it's one on one experience, part of a local ministry, or outreach mission - the impact of documenting Christian experiences for others can have impact.

These or any of the past pamphlets can also be directly requested and sent as a Word file.

Blessed writing!

Shannon

Shannon Muir guest speaker at Fall Meeting

2007-09-26T13:31:00.001-07:00

I (Shannon Muir, coordinator) will be speaking about my experiences publishing my first book, GARDNER'S GUIDE TO WRITING AND PRODUCING ANIMATION, as the main event of the Fall all-writers meeting for Creative Words to Spread the Word.
The meeting is October 7th at 3PM at Wilshire Avenue Community Church
in Fullerton, Room 301. With me will be Kevin Paul Shaw Broden, who
did all interior art for the book. Though a secular book, there's a
lot to be said for being a Christian in the secular publishing world
and that's what we'll explore. Also to be discussed are 2008 goals
for writing ministry mission! Please join us.

Welcome to Creative Words to Spread the Word!

2007-09-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

My name is Shannon Muir, and I coordinate Creative Words to Spread the Word at Wilshire Avenue Community Church. The mission of our ministry is to use the gift of words to spread Christ's message to people who may not initially be reached by the ultimate Word of the Bible. It is certainly not our mission to supplant that text as the authority, but rather to be guided by it.

This blog will feature information about the group itself, writing advice, and more. Come with us on the journey and see where it evolves.