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.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Bringing Together Writers for Christ
BRINGING TOGETHER WRITERS FOR CHRIST
Writing as Part of the Body of Christ
How Writing Can Unite People to do Christ’s Work
---
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?
---
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.]
Writing as Part of the Body of Christ
How Writing Can Unite People to do Christ’s Work
---
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?
---
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
INSPIRED BY THE WORD
Bringing the Word to Our Words
Using the Bible’s Truths to Strengthen Personal Creative Writing
---
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.
---
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.]
Bringing the Word to Our Words
Using the Bible’s Truths to Strengthen Personal Creative Writing
---
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.
---
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.]
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Finding Time to Write... Finding Time for Christ
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…
---
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?
---
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.
---
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.]
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…
---
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?
---
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.
---
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.]
Sunday, April 27, 2008
The Power of Perspective
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…
---
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.
---
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.]
Different looks at Christ at work in our world
Seeing Christ in various ways can open minds to His majesty and grace…
---
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.
---
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.]
Saturday, March 22, 2008
How Christian Character Produces Character
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?
---
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.]
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?
---
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.]
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Testimony in Words
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.
---
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.]
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.
---
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.]
Thursday, February 28, 2008
The Language of Being Missional
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?
---
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.]
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?
---
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.]
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Journaling for Christ
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.
---
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.]
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.
---
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.]
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Poetry in the Bible... and Beyond
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.
---
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.]
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.
---
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.]
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