Friberg's Friday Favorite

It's New Years Eve and I wanted to post my TWO favorite worship song from 2010.

1. Forever Reign. I absolutely love this worship song and have really been blessed to lead and worship God with the song.

2. Our God. In my opinion, this was the epic song of the year. This song is powerful, amazing, and well written. I have had some awesome moments with God when singing this song.

God be glorified and praised in 2011!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! I have been away from my computer for a while so I have not been able to post any questions. So, here you go!

Bible Trivia!

(1) Who wrote the book of Acts?

(2) What animal fed Elijah by the river?

(3) What day of creation did God create the sun, moon, and stars? Why would this be an interesting trivia fact in relation to the rest of the days of creation?

Christmas Bonus - How many wise men where there that visited Jesus?

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Friberg Friday Favorite

Merry Christmas from some amazing instruments!!!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

(I am getting some good feedback on my Bible trivia Q's...)

(1) Who is the oldest person in the Bible? How old was he?

(2) In the book of Genesis, which brother does Joseph keep in Egypt to ensure that he would see Benjamin?

(3) Name the major prophet that is known for his visions with bones.

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

I think this flash mob idea is excellent. Someday, I will do this with a choir as a great team building activity. I love the acoustics of the food court!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

If you owned a red-letter edition Bible, tell me where I could find 4 chapters that are entirely the words of Christ.

Hint - the 4 chapters are not all from the same book.

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Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Happy Thanksgiving! Have fun with these questions!

(1) Which president declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday?

(2) Tell me the date of the first actual Thanksgiving.

(3) Turkey was NOT eaten at that first meal. What was served instead of Turkey?

(4) Bonus...what are you most thankful for?

Thanks for playing!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Chris Tomlin just released his new CD (And If Our God Is For Us). There are a number of classics that many people will use in their services, meetings, and worship times. All To Us is a great song and has the potential to be an "all-star" song.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

(1) In the Bible, which of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse rides a red horse?

(2) How many books of the Bible are named for women?

(3) What is the longest name in the Bible?

Thanks for playing!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Matthew West is an amazing song writer. The words that he uses to communicate a message is outstanding. In addition to the great lyrics, his musicality is remarkable. Here is his latest song, My Own Little World. I love the syncopation!

Take A Break

1 Corinthians 4:1-2, "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful."

This passage in 1 Corinthians is outstanding. As believers, we have been given responsibility from God to spread the Gospel. We are blessed with the opportunity to share the "mysteries" to those around us.

Imagine you are going to coach a basketball team. You look at the roster and set up the team practices. As you practice, you notice that one of the players consistently makes half-court shots. You are amazed at this talent and have the responsibility of using it appropriately.

When the first game arrives, you keep your secret weapon (this mystery) hidden. Finally, late in the fourth quarter, you call for the half-court shot. The opposing team is wondering why your point guard is hanging out at the middle of the court. They are excited because they think they have won. At the last second, your player launches the 3-pointer and you win the game.

We have an amazing opportunity to share the love of Christ with those around us. We are called "Stewards" by the apostle Paul. Because we have the Holy Spirit's help, we can unpack the mysteries of the Gospel to the dying world around us.

I encourage you to be ready and always aware of the power that can work in and through you!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

2 Questions:

(1) What seven-letter word has hundreds of letters in it?

(2) Tom's mother has three children. One is named April, one is named May. What is the third one named?

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

I put up this song a couple of months ago. Awakening is an amazing song. I listen to this song, worship with it, and look forward to Chris Tomlin's studio version (coming out on November 16th). This song can be used in any worship service (Sunday morning, small group, etc.).

...from the darkness comes a light...

Take a Break

Every Thursday, I want to take a second and offer a little thought for the day.

1 Corinthians 1:9 says, "God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

Paul is addressing the church in Corinth. I really like how Paul acknowledges the people whom he is writing. He is thankful to God for the believers in Corinth and he is letting them all know how he feels. Paul is laying a solid foundation for the church in Corinth (and us today).

The best part of chapter one is the phrase, "God is faithful." Read it again, "God is faithful."

How often are those 3 words forgotten? Do we believe what Paul wrote? Do we REALLY think that God is faithful? If so, why do our lives display something different? I was talking with a man a couple of weeks ago and he shared with me how he was abused as child. He grew up in fear and never trusted God or the people around him. One day, a guy from Blue Ridge (the church we go to) listened and cared for this man. He invited him to come to church and the rest is history. God was faithful to this abused individual and opened many doors for healing and ministry to flow in and through his life.

God is faithful. He has called us into a relationship with Jesus. No matter what will happen, God will be faithful to lead and draw us to Himself. I think that is exciting and amazing!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

What animal is mentioned most frequently in both the New and Old Testaments?

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

Yahweh (Live) was released this past week. The project has all the classic songs from Hillsong. If you don't own any of their previous recordings, Yahweh (Live) covers all the songs that you have grown to absolutely love. Listen to another great song: Yahweh.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

What sign did God give to Hezekiah so he would know that God would add fifteen years to his life?

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

This song by Jimmy Needham would be great during an offering or at the end of a service. As a side note, Jimmy Needham's voice sounds so much like a good friend of mine (Matt Guevera). Excellent singing...

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Been on vacation for this past week (seems like this past month). My blog entries have been awful.

We had an opportunity to see the Philadelphia Eastern State Penitentiary. It was pretty amazing (and a little scary).

(1) Tell me the famous mobster who was imprisoned in the penitentiary.
(2) Tell me the famous author that came over from England to visit the penitentiary.

Thanks for playing!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Bible Trivia!

(1) Name the boy who fell out of a window, died, and was brought back to life.
(2) Name the man that God used to bring this boy back to life.

Thanks for playing!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Charlie Hall just released a new CD. Here is his hit song from the project.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Charlie Hall just released a new CD. Here is his hit song from the project.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Charlie Hall just released a new CD. Here is his hit song from the project.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

There are 32 teams in the NFL. Can you tell me how many teams have one or more letters on their helmets? The New York Jets are an example...

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

Brianne and I are going to see Switchfoot in concert. Here is one of my favorite songs that they have done. For part of the recording, Jon (the lead singer) sang on his back underneath a grand piano. His voice traveled through the piano with the mic on the other side of the strings. A piano player held down the chords of the song so the harmonics would ring out (with Jon's voice). It is pretty sweet!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Brianne and I really enjoy the show Parenthood. We think it is well written and provides amazing insight into the many different struggles and achievements that a family goes through. The show is a smashing success for NBC.

Can you tell me the program that was pulled last year that inevitably made room for Parenthood?

Thanks for playing!

John 9

I read a great passage of Scripture in John 9.

As it reads, immediately after all the Pharisees and mob were ready to stone Jesus (in John 8), He gives a blind person his sight. He makes some mud with His saliva, rubs it in the man's eyes, and the man receives his sight.

The Pharisees were not excited about this healing that happened (I wonder if any of these religious leaders were present in John 8 when they were going to stone Jesus). They tried to go through all the pomp and circumstance to null the miracle and make Jesus a sinner and a devil.

The man (who was blind) boldly declares Christ and is thrown out of the synagogue. At the end of John 9, check out the amazing interaction between Jesus and this man He healed.

"Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" "Who is He, sir?" the man asked. "Tell me so that I may believe in Him. Jesus said, "You have now seen Him; in fact, He is the one speaking with you. "Then the man said, "Lord, I believe," and he worshiped Him." (John 9:35-38)

Can you imagine that conversation? The man was face to face with the creator of the universe, seeing with his eyes for the first time in his life, and overcome with the power of God. Once he realizes that Jesus is in front of him, he responds by worshiping.

Amazing.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Chris Tomlin continues to pump out great music. He has a full length project coming out soon and released I Will Follow a couple of weeks ago. Enjoy!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

What is known as the "Crown Jewel" of Manhattan?

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5 Bad Coffee Drinks

I was talking with Jim N. today and he drew my attention to this very interesting article. When I read it, I was blown away!

Click here to read all about the coffee drinks that many of us enjoy.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Here is another classic from Hillsong's latest project. I look forward to use it in a worship service. The One Who Saves is a great song!

Blue Ridge Church

We have been attending Blue Ridge church ever since we moved to Virginia. We have absolutely loved the church and look forward to what God is doing through the various ministries at Blue Ridge.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremy (one of the associates) did a video message. I thought it was outstanding. If you have some time, please upload it and watch it. Click here and choose the message, "All In, part 3 - Phillip."

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Many people love coffee and drink it freely throughout the day. Starbucks, Caribou, and many places make HUGE money because of our love of coffee.

Can you name the #1 flavor people like to drink at Starbucks and Caribou?

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Healthy Eating

Many people have opinions on how we eat. TV shows are raking it in by displaying individuals who are unhealthy (because of what they eat) and making them healthy and active through proper diet and exercise.

I came across this article on Yahoo (click here) and I found it very interesting - The 25 Best Nutrition Secrets.

What do you think about it?

Friberg's Friday Favorite

I love this song. We have done it a couple of times at Blue Ridge and I think it is outstanding.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Good afternoon on this great Wednesday! We just experienced a nice Labor Day weekend. Many people see family and visit friends. Often, the weekend is the last opportunity to visit a cabin or take a trip at the end of summer.

Can you tell me how Labor Day became a holiday on our calendar?

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Friberg's Friday Favorite

Greatness Of Our God was written by Reuben Morgan and Delirious. Natalie Grant recorded the song and hit it out of the park. It can be used in any worship service. I think it is a great song!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

3 Questions -

(1) How many grooves are there on a quarter?
(2) How many freckles are there on Howdy Doody?
(3) Where is Purdue University (city and state)?

Thanks for playing!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Can you name the restaurant that is closed every Sunday?

Thanks for playing!

Great Customer Service

I was amazed by the "extra mile" that a worker at Chick-fil-A performed this afternoon.

When I pulled up to the restaurant, it was raining like crazy. It was the kind of heavy rain that forces drivers to use their wipers in the full-blast mode. Everything was soaked, there were puddles everywhere, and the rain was coming down.

I was not looking forward to the run that was ahead of me to get into Chick-fil-A. I was going to sprint through the rain, ring my shirt, and kick the water out of my shoes.

I opened my car door and immediately a gentlemen ran towards me with an umbrella. When he arrived at my car, I noticed that he was an employee of Chick-fil-A. He greeted me and accompanied me and Keenan to the door. I was blown away!

I have never experienced such great care as a customer. Because of this experience, I was struck with a huge lesson. This act of service helped illustrate the importance of meeting people's needs. This man reached a massive need in my life - I wanted to stay dry.

Huge question: Do I give myself and serve the real needs of the people around me?

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Starfield is such a great worship group. I first heard about them a year ago and I love singing their songs to worship God. Filled With Your Glory is another classic from Starfield that can be used in any church.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Favre is back with the Vikings. Everyone in Minnesota is excited!

Name four teams in the NFC that are NOT happy that Brett is back this year.

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Community

Brianne and I are looking for a church close to where we live. As we search, we are constantly reminded that the health of the church is only as strong as volunteers and leadership of the church. If there are not any volunteers in the church (or the church is struggling to get volunteers), the signs point to a congregation that does not buy into the vision of the leadership. If there are an abundance of volunteers, the leadership has a vision that everyone is excited to support.

We visited a church that had energetic and helpful volunteers out in the parking lot and in the information booth. Their volunteers made it easy for us to get a cup of coffee and find out information about the church. After the first service, the lobby was jammed with people serving, talking, hanging out, and connecting to each other. The air was alive and I could sense that people loved being together at this church.

What makes a church alive? The first answer is the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus exalted, and God changing lives. The second answer is the leadership. The first thing I noticed was how the senior pastor served. Note: the church probably has 1000 people coming through the doors every Sunday (typically, senior pastors are behind stage or no where to be found in serving areas of large churches).

When we walked into the church, I saw that the senior pastor was greeting people as they entered the sanctuary. Next, when the offering was taken, he served as one of the ushers, passing the offering bags from aisle to aisle. Finally, he did not go on stage to speak or mention his status to anyone at the church. A guest speaker was there and the senior pastor did not even walk on stage. He helped serve communion and greeted everyone as they left.

As I reflected on my experience, I knew why the church was so healthy - the senior pastor lived the vision. He served and gave himself to the congregation. He threw himself into the mix.

I was blessed and encouraged. We are going back to the church and will probably call it our new church home.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Mark Schultz has touched millions with his music. He has blessed the military, thousands of families, and many people in prison. Last year, I had the opportunity to meet him at a concert in St. Cloud. We spoke after he was done performing and I was amazed at his humility and care for people (especially the men and women in uniform).

Love Has Come has been on the air for a couple of months. After hearing it play again this morning, I believe that this song could be used powerfully in a worship service.

Everyone's Potential

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to learn a great lesson in leadership at Gold'n Plump Chicken. Ron (the head Elder at Westwood) is a manager at Gold'n Plump. He took me on a tour of the plant and I was amazed at what he does for a living.

Ron is in charge of raising all the chickens that produce the fryers that we purchase at our local grocery stores. Ron's chickens are raised to lay the eggs that will eventually be used for us to consume. To put it bluntly, Ron's chickens live productive, active, and long lives.

To start out the tour, we walked through the thousands of eggs that were waiting to be put into their incubation chambers. He described the different coloring of the eggs (browner is healthier), how long the eggs are in the incubator (18 days), and the process that happens once the chicks are born.

After looking at the eggs, we drove out to a farm and walked through THOUSANDS of baby chicks. He told me that each of these little chicks will produce 150 fryers (remember, they are being raised to produce the food that we eat). Ron told me that each fryer is worth $2 to his business. Each little chick is work about $300. The barn was controlled (food, water, temperature, and lighting) and set to produce the best environment for healthy growth.

As we walked up to the second level, we saw 5 dead chicks. He sighed and told me that losing these chickens cost his company $1,500. He saw the little birds for more than what I could see on the surface. He saw lost potential. He saw value.

After we were done looking at the birds, Ron told me that he looks at people the same way he looks at his chickens. He said, "Everyone has the ability to be used by God in great ways. Everyone has been given amazing gifts and the leaders around them should maximize their potential. Empower, encourage, and fan their flames into greatness!"

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Good luck with these riddles!

(1) If three cats catch three mice in three minutes, how many cats would be needed to catch one hundred mice in one hundred minutes?

(2) What is so fragile that when you say its name you break it?

Friberg's Friday Favorite

We visited a church this past Wednesday. We enjoyed a nice evening of worship and communion. They taught No Reason To Hide to the church. I think the song is an excellent band song. Any musician would enjoy playing the shuffle groove and unique band hits throughout the song.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Brett Favre is back in the news. Is he gonna retire? Is he coming back? In all the excitement, my question today is about him...

For the past 3 seasons Brett has played for the Packers, Jets, and Vikings. Can you tell me what happened on his last pass for each team?

Thanks for playing!

In Virginia!

We made it to Virginia.

Our long drive is over and we made it safely across the nation. We thank God for His protection and safely taking us on our way.

As we traveled, I have learned some things since leaving the Midwest. There are some different cultural nuances that I have already experienced.

1. Chick-fil-A is all over the place (and is very tasty!).
2. Everyone waves when you drive or walk by them. Everyone. I was on a walk with the dog and a couple people walked out from their house to wave at me. Really? It felt kinda weird...
3. People enjoy talking. I could say that people do not seem to be in a hurry. We were in the bank taking care of some financial things and people in the lobby were just jabbing away as if they had no where else to go. I also noticed the extended talking at Liberty University as well. The workers just chat and gab and chat and chew and cluck and gab...
4. Everything is better with a little BBQ sauce. Lets cook something on the grill. We gotta get more BBQ sauce!
5. It is humid and hot. I know that it is humid and hot in the Midwest. I realize that there are days that are ridiculous in Minnesota. It is different in the south. It has been humid since we have been here. Hot - Hot - Hot!
6. Everyone loves college football. No one really cares about the NFL.
7. I know I already said it but...I love Chick-fil-A!!!

Overall, I am experiencing new things. I will continue to post anything new about our experiences in Virginia.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

We leave for Virginia in two days. I have not been faithful to this blog...I plan on picking it up when we get settled in next week.

I still want to offer a question ('cuz it is Wedensday...):

We are moving out to Virginia, and we will begin our next chapter of life with Liberty University. In honor of this transition, today's question is: What is the mission of Liberty University?

Thanks for playing!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

What condiment can you use to remove spots on stainless steel sinks? What drink can you use afterwords to add shine?

Prize to the winner!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

I think Michael Tait is outstanding. When I heard he was the lead singer for the Newsboys, I was pretty pumped. Watch their recently released hit song, Born Again.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

A riddle -

I am taken from a mine, and shut up in a wooden case, from which I am never released, and yet I am used by almost everybody.

What am I?

Friberg's Friday Favorite

This link is a preview of a new, upbeat song from the latest Hillsong release - A Beautiful Exchange. I love the drums on this song. If you haven't purchased the album, I highly recommend this project. I love the first 4 songs on the recording.

Read more about Forever Reign, song #3 on the project

Building A Cross

When we moved into our new auditorium, a bunch of fabric was placed in the front of the church that made a fake looking cross. It looked fine, but I knew we could do something better.

I wanted to make a real looking cross for the center of the stage. So, I spoke with my creative arts director and we came up with the idea to put a bunch of twigs together to make a massive cross.

Ryan Monroe, the jack of all trades, went home and cut down a bunch of junk trees in the swamp behind his house in the country. He gathered all kinds of twigs and scrap branches from the ground. He loaded up his trailer with all the wood and brought them to the church.

We put the cross together from all the pieces and then and hoisted the cross up. It really looks great and definitely adds to every worship service.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

A Riddle...

He who has it doesn't tell it. He who takes it doesn't know it. He who knows it doesn't want it. What is it?

Prize to the winner!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Hillsong just released their latest album, A Beautiful Exchange. After going through the project a couple of times, I found myself singing along with this song, Forever Reign.

It has potential to be a classic for any church service. I especially like the part when everyone is singing "Jesus" during the bridge.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Fun Trivia...

On average, how many words do men say every day? How about women?

Prize to the winner!

Piano Man

Yesterday, I used another great song to bring people into the worship service.

Everything on the stage was dark, the cross lights were on, and people were coming into the church auditorium. I started playing Billy Joel's "Piano Man" on the piano and the band slowly joined me by playing the accompanied chords. We went through the main chorus twice and held the G chord at the end. Everyone in the church was looking forward, ready to sing and worship.

I immediately started slowly singing "I'll fly away oh glory, I'll fly away." We went through the chorus slow and then turned the service into a good old fashion gospel-jamin' hymn. People were clapping on the beat, people were clapping off the beat. Everyone in the church was singing loudly, "Hallelujah by and by...I'll fly away!"

"Piano Man" into "I'll Fly Away" initially seemed unorthodox; however, the congregation's attention was drawn into worship through a chorus that was familiar to them.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Hillsong really knows how to write GREAT music. Here is another classic that came out a couple of years ago. I really like this song.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Football players LOVE to celebrate when they score a touchdown. Can name the player who first started the trend? Also, can you name a recent Hall of Fame inductee that would never celebrate after he scored a touchdown?

Prize to the winner!

(thanks to Jim N. for the question!)

Empowerment

I ascribe to the empowerment model of leadership. I would rather build on a person's strengths than focus on someone's mistakes. By using empowerment, I have experienced outstanding results from the people around me.

Are you an empowering leader? Click here to read a wonderful article provided by Catalyst. The writer points out 10 signs that display someone NOT being an empowering leader.

Happy Father's Day!

To you dad - thanks for being the strong leader, father, and mentor throughout my whole life. This song by Sanctus Real paints a great picture of great dads like you.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

How many words in the English language end in gry? What are they?

Prize to the winner!

Amazing Guitar Player

Check this guy out. I cannot believe this is possible. Wow.



(HT: Jake Standafer)

Friberg's Friday Favorite

I am teaching this new song by Chris Tomlin this Sunday. We had an awesome time rehearsing it this past Wednesday. I think this song has amazing potential.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Fun fact:

The average North American gains how much weight between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays?

Prize to the winner!

Becoming a better Electric Guitarist

Ben Gowell plays for Paul Baloche and Sara Groves. He is now on tour with Michael W. Smith (so he knows a thing or two about electric guitars).

Ben gives some great tips on becoming a better electric guitar player and better musician. I am not an electric guitar player; however, I learned something from what he said about growing in my appreciation for all kinds of music. In listening to different styles of music, I will become an overall better musician.

Click here to read the article.

HT: Bob Kauflin

Hallelujah

Yesterday, we did Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah as an opening to the service. Many people tie the song with Shrek; however, we combined Lee Dewyze's style with Lincoln Brewster's lyrics.

A soloist sang the original verse 1 and chorus with only a light on the cross (the stage was black). When we started v2 (Brewster's lyrics), the lights went up, everyone stood, and we all sang out to God.

I thought it was a perfect intro to the service. The band nailed it, the church worshiped, and the rest of the service was set up nicely by that song.

Leadership Video

We put together a leadership orientation video for the ministry leaders of the church. We wanted to help the leaders (staff and volunteers) get on the same page. I wanted to spice it up with some fun stuff (music and dancing).

Click here to view it and enjoy!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

I really like this new song by Chris Tomlin. It would be a great choice for a worship night, extended prayer time, or on a Sunday morning.

Moving

Today, we officially announced that we are leaving St. Cloud. We will be moving to Lynchburg, Virginia. Brianne will be a full time professor at Liberty University in the Psychology department. I will be involved with the music and worship program at Liberty as well.

Our time in St. Cloud has been wonderful and we have learned so much. Many people have blessed us with their kindness, friendship, and support over the past 3 years and we are so blessed because of them.

I will continue to blog, put up Brian Teasers, and write about all my worship experiences. We are looking forward to great things and know that God is leading us in this new direction.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

I have been south of the equator 2 times in my life. Can you name the two countries that I visited?

Prize to the winner!

Good Reminder

Memorial Day weekend.

Many people look forward to the cooking out, playing outside, lake trips, enjoying family and friends, and officially starting summer vacation.

Marshall serves in the Marines and played drums in church yesterday. He was home for the holiday and served Westwood (his home church) by doing an outstanding job on the drums.

He came up with Pastor Dave and gave the opening greeting. His reminder on why we celebrate Memorial Day was emotional and very powerful. He was good friends with 6 Marines who died in the line of duty. If he would have stayed home, he said that he would be attending 6 different funerals or memorials in their honor. He reminded us to remember why we have Memorial Day and to remember the many people who have served and died for our country.

I am grateful for the freedoms that I have and I am thankful for people like Marshall who have the courage to stand up for my country.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

I love this worship song.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

How many common words of four letters or more can you make from the letters in the following word? (You may use each letter only once in each word)

FLEECE

Prize to the winner!

Yesterday's Speaker

We had a great service yesterday. Matt Guevara gave life to a familiar story (prodigal son) and many people were challenged by what he said. He concluded his message with the Phil Wickhem's song, Home. I was blessed by what he said and I was honored to minister along with him.

Aside from his great speaking ability, he has rallied a bunch of professionals to write a book called What Matters Now. You can download it for free (click on the link) and read all the views and outstanding points that surround kid's ministry. Brianne wrote an article on empowerment. It is outstanding!

I wonder if worship leaders could do something similar. Could we put together "What Matters To Worship Now?" I think that project would be amazing, meaning, and bless many churches. I would love to hear from different worship leaders all around the country.

For now, enjoy Matt's project. The book is phenomenal!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

At the end of Matt Guevara's message this Sunday, he will sing this song, Home. The service will be powerful and impact many people. I think this song will be a perfect end to his message on the Prodigal Son.

Memorizing Songs

I believe that it is important for a worship leader to know 5-10 worship songs by heart (lyrics and chords). One may never know when they will be stuck without computers, chord charts, or a band to accompany them. They need to be ready at all times. Over this past year, I have utilized this tool of memorization (and the knowledge of music theory) on three separate occasions.

(1) The entire power went out on a Sunday morning. The staff scrambled and tried to figure out what to do. All of the emergency doors were opened to light up the inside of the auditorium (we do not have windows). After talking with the worship team, I went on stage with the team and we led worship in the dark. It was incredible. After the service, many people commented on how meaningful that worship experience was to them.

(2) The Spirit 92.9 team asked me to lead a song while the votes were being counted in this past Opening Act competition. Because the votes took longer than expected, we did not have another song ready (we were finished with the four worship songs that we had prepared). I told the band to play in the key of A and we played How Great Is Our God. The place erupted in worship and we did it without any help. It was awesome!

(3) The computer crashed on a song this past Sunday. We had just started Brenton Brown's song, Everlasting God, when everything went black. I did not have any chord charts or sheet music in front of me (I do not use music when I lead from the guitar - I do use the TV screens to see the words). As we continued to sing, I told the congregation the lyrics before we sang them. When the song was finished, the computer was back up and running. I learned again how important it is to know the songs.

For the sake of the people that I am leading, I need to be ready to keep their focus on Christ (and not on me and my mistakes). I will continue to learn and grow through the difficult (yet important) process of memorization.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

What country has a Bible on their national flag? There is only one that has it!

Prize to the winner!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

What is the word, slogan, phrase, or saying depicted below?

TMC
AUO
HSM
WTE

Prize to the winner!

Great Parent/Child Video

We are using this video for our Parent/Child dedication services this weekend. We are utilizing pop culture to illustrate that the parent is always teaching their child.

The Organ

Yesterday, another humorous moment happened during the worship service.

We were finishing up with our opening song, "Song of Hope" and I was getting ready to greet everyone for the first time. We were playing the last instrumental solo and ended the song with a resounding "A" chord. It was nice.

As I said "Happy Mother's Day" to everyone in the room, I started playing in the key of G (different then "Song of Hope) to get us ready for the next song. I had my back to the band and my in-ear mixing station (Aviom).

In my ear buds, I could hear the organ holding out the "A" chord from the first song while I was welcoming everyone to church and playing in the key of "G" on my guitar. I was unaware that the organ was malfunctioning and the person playing the instrument did not know what to do.

So, I continued my greeting and began to pray. The loud "A" chord was wailing away in my ears and I was wondering why the organist was rocking out on this chord. It sounded awful as I was trying to establish the new key of "G" in the prayer.

After I said "Amen" I turned and saw that the organist was standing 2 feet away from the instrument and looked horrified. I quietly told her to shut off the organ and turn it back on. My ears were finally at peace and we continued with the next song.

I found out later that I was the only one who heard the rockin' organ. The sound man cut it out of the house, the rest of the team turned the keyboard channel off in their Avioms, and no one in the congregation even knew the discomfort that I felt while giving the Mother's Day welcome and prayer.

It was a great lesson for me to remember and a funny moment that I will never forget.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Today, I have the opportunity to open for Kutless. Here is a thought-provoking song that my dad found and introduced to me.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

I can't wait to see the Twins new stadium. The open air, the smell of the food from the concession stands, and all the elements...it is gonna be sweet!

I was 8 years old when I saw my first Twins game in the Dome. Name the opponent that the Twins played against in my inaugural experience to baseball.

Hint: The team was another American League team.

Prize to the winner!

Opening Act!

Over 700 people came to Westwood to watch Spirit 92.9's Opening Act: Vocal competition. We had a packed house and the atmosphere was electric!

I started the whole night by welcoming everyone to the church and then prayed for the contestants. This prayer time was amazing - a community of believers coming together to support each other and believe that God was taking these eight individuals on a path that glorified and honored Him.

The eight singers each had their time on the stage and did a great job. The judges made small comments after each performance and the 92.9 ladies filled in the gaps with their own personal touch.

At the end of the night, the audience voted and turned in their top four choices of the night. While the votes were being counted, we worshiped together in the auditorium. Again, another amazing picture - different denominations, different backgrounds all worshiping together, lifting up the name of the Lord.

After we were finished with all the prepared music, we needed one more song. For me, this was the best part of the night. I moved to the keyboard, told the band to play in the key of A, and led How Great Is Our God. With hands in the air and voices lifted up, we continued to worship. At the end of the song, I stepped away from the mic, told the musicians to stop playing, and entire room sang the final chorus (acapella) two more times. It was spectacular!

Finally, the top four winners were announced (Christy, Foster, Bryan, and Loren). Everyone was excited and we knew that we experienced an amazing evening.

To hear the four winners and vote for who you think is the best, click here.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Reign In Us will be sung at tonight's concert (top 8 - Opening Act). I really like this song...

Easter (4.4.10)

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

I have been blessed to play with a lot of great musicians throughout my life. Next weekend, I will be in the band opening for Kutless with Spirit 92.9's Opening Act winner.

Now to the question...

In college, I played in a band called Copper Coin. While I was in the band, we had a couple of opportunities to open for some great bands. Can you name the first professional group that we opened for?

Prize to the winner!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Before an orchestra performs, they need to make sure they are in tune as an ensemble. As they get ready to adjust their instruments, they all wait for the correct pitch...

(1) Name one of the concert tones.
(2) Name the instrument that plays the tone.

Prize to the winner!

Good Friday (4.2.10)

A number of people have asked what we did for our Good Friday and Easter services. I realize that this response is long overdue...

Good Friday. The mood was set as people came into the building. Various accounts of the crucifixion were displayed on art in the Commons. Inside the auditorium, more quotes and passages were scrolling on the walls from the projectors. There were five artists on stage painting on canvases. Soft music (soundtrack from the Passion) was playing.

The worship team started the service by playing In Christ Alone (led by the violin). We all joined in by only singing the first two verses.

Steve welcomed everyone and read from Psalm 22.

We sang three worship songs (How Deep the Father's Love for Us, Blessed Redeemer, and Mighty is the Power of the Cross). Steve read a sermon using Matthew 26 and 1 Corinthians 11. The artists continued to paint on their canvases.

Communion was started by the acoustic guitar player singing Open Hands. The congregation came to the front of the church to the different stations to partake of the bread and juice. A single candle illuminated the elements on top of each round table.

When everyone returned to their seats, we sang Heidi Holt's version of Nothing but the Blood. The acoustic guitarist had a pedal that recorded his guitar and allowed him to play over top of what he played the first time.

Steve came up and read the accounts of the crucifixion. They were from all four gospels, placed together as a single story. When he reached the part that said Jesus was crucified, everything went black. After a five second pause, a hammer in the back was used to hit a metal bar. The sound was stark and chilling as it rang throughout the auditorium.

The artists then took their paintings and moved to the back of the stage. Each painting hooked onto the other to form the picture that you see at the top of this post. A motorized wench hoisted the art (attached to a massive cedar log) so everyone could see the entire piece (the length was about 25 feet). A small beam of light revealed the art to the congregation when everything was in place.

While the artists were hanging their paintings, Steve continued to read from the Bible. The band played The Wonderful Cross led by the violinist. When Steve finished, all the lights went off and the violin concluded the song. As we left, only the painting was visible.

We had a powerful service. The artists did an outstanding job, the worship team was amazing, and the tech booth was terrific. For me, this was the best Good Friday service that I have ever led.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

What was my declared major when I started as a freshman at Gustavus Adolphus College?

Hint: It was NOT Music Education (what I eventually graduated with).

Prize to the winner!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Laura Story has written an amazing worship song. I can't wait to introduce this song to Westwood.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Here we go...

Baseball has just started and everyone is excited for the new season. Growing up, I had a favorite player that I absolutely loved, cheered, and followed (I also have a lot of his baseball cards). Can you name him?

Prize to the winner!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Every Easter, my mom's side of the family will get together to celebrate the holiday. Aside from all the candy bunnies, jelly beans, and chocolate covered eggs, my grandfather always makes a traditional stew. Can you tell me the name of this stew?

Hint #1: It is Polish.

Hint #2: The stew is reddish/purple thanks to one of its main ingredients.

Prize to the winner!

Hosanna!

Yesterday was Palm Sunday. The kids in the church colored palm branches. The Sunday School lessons were on Jesus' triumphal entry on a lowly donkey. In his sermon, Pastor Steve taught on Jesus in the Old Testament. The worship team added energy and creativity to the services.

Before Sunday, Pastor Steve came into my office and told me that worship for Palm Sunday needed to be big, amazing, and loud. He wanted the congregation to sing together in joyful celebration to God.

So, I began to create the set list. Lincoln Brewster was added (All To You). Paul Baloche's song (Hosanna) is a hit at Westwood. Then, when I was playing piano with Matt S., we discovered that an 80's classic (Don't Stop Believing) worked great with a David Crowder song (Our Love Is Loud). It was familiar riff to a great song for Palm Sunday.

When Sunday arrived, we had a wonderful time in the rehearsal and services. The worship team nailed all the parts (the Journey/Crowder song was terrific!), the music was energetic and joyful (Pastor Steve even said that he lost his breath from singing so hard), and people glorified God by singing powerful words to Him.

"Hosanna, Hosanna, You are the God who saves us, worthy of all our praises!"

Friberg's Friday Favorite

We are singing Tell The World for Easter. Along with the choir, band, and vocals, the grade school kids will come up on stage to help teach this song to the church. I have had a blast rehearsing it over the past couple of weeks!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

How can you throw a ball as hard as you can and have it come back to you, even if it doesn't hit anything, there is nothing attached to it, and no one else catches or throws it?

Prize to the winner!

The Congregation

Yesterday, Anthony led music for our morning services. As he rehearsed, I worked with the sound technician, helped the computer operator with minor details, and planned different light scenes with the producer.

The service started and we were led into a wonderful time of praise and worship.

As we were singing The Stand, I was amazed at how clearly I could hear the voices of the congregation. The words of the song were resonating throughout the entire auditorium.

I'll stand, with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the One who gave it all. I'll stand, my soul Lord to You surrendered. All I am is Yours.

On stage, there was only one vocal (Anthony). In the room, 300-400 voices filled the place with words, melody, and harmony that truly honored God. I was blessed to sing and exalt the name of the Lord with the body of Christ.

Friberg's Friday Favorite

Blessed Redeemer by Casting Crowns is a nice choice for Good Friday. The way they incorporate verse three is unique. What do you think?

Humility

In today's culture, if you promote yourself, you get more press, more advancements, more money, and more fame. However, God values humility and sacrificially putting others first.

"Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.' Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:5b-7)."

John Calvin said, "We ought to dwell on this thought, that God cares for us, in order, first, that we may have peace within; and, secondly, that we may be humble and meek toward men."

St. Augustine adds, "Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility."

What does humility look like in 2010? Please share your story. Do you have an experience where you saw humility in action? I will appreciate all responses!

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Can you name the Veggie Tales where the history of Saint Patrick is told?

Prize to the winner!

Guest Worship Leader

This Sunday, Anthony is coming to lead worship at Westwood. He grew up in the area and is no stranger to the congregation. He plays guitar and has a great voice.

I have always loved his style of leadership. He chooses songs that are relevant, speaks life into the church members, and honors God throughout the worship service. His authenticity and passion for Christ are very contagious.

He recently participated in a band competition (Opening Act). Many individuals wanted see a lot of energy, outstanding performances, and memorable solos from the bands that were competing. When Anthony got on stage to play, he slowed everything down, brought appropriate attention to the Lord, and we worshiped. It was such a blessing to experience his leading in such a unique environment.

I look forward to Sunday and expect a wonderful time of praise and worship.

Pancakes!

When we came into church yesterday, we were welcomed by the wonderful aroma of pancakes cooking in the kitchen. Once the Sunday morning services were over, those of us who had been doing our best to quiet our growling stomachs, entered into a well orchestrated fundraiser by the youth group.

As Brianne and I enjoyed plate after plate, the quality of service on display by the youth group was amazing. These kids came in at 7am, cooked, set-up, decorated the room, greeted with smiling faces, and efficiently cleaned up when everyone was done.

Jeff (Westwood's Youth Director) is leading the youth group on a life-changing retreat this spring and this fundraiser will help keep the cost down for the students.

The food was tasty, the service was excellent, the atmosphere was lively, and everyone left in great moods. I look forward to the next time the church can enjoy an event by the youth group!

Friberg's Friday Favorite

This well-written song could be used throughout the season of Lent and for a Good Friday service.

Spirit and Truth

I had the privilege of speaking to the youth group at Westwood last night on the topic of worship. We talked about Cain and Abel, the widow's mite, and Jesus' interaction with the woman at the well (John 4). Naturally, the question of the night was, "What does it mean to worship in spirit and in truth?"

Vernon Whaley (Called To Worship) succinctly described what it means to worship God in spirit and truth. I used his words as the springboard for our small group discussion.

"The center of worship lies in the position of our heart. To worship God in spirit requires that we are alive on the inside through the power of Jesus Christ as stated in John chapter 3 on being born in the Spirit. We cannot worship in spirit if God isn't present in our heart.

To worship God in truth requires that you worship Him for who He truly is. This isn't merely lip service but a life backed by the integrity that reflects the Spirit of God at work inside of you."

We had a great night! I believe a number of students left with a better perspective on worship and a deeper relationship with Christ.

Wednesday's Brian Teaser

Two questions -

(1) Name the city where I proposed to Brianne.
(2) In the same location (three years later), Brianne and I completed an event. What was it?

Prize to the winner?

New Music

What is the best way to introduce a new song to the church? How do you know if you have a good new song for the church to sing? A lot of what I learned has come from Bob Kauflin (Worship Matters).

Here are some steps that I take when choosing new songs:
1. The song should say something. In my younger years, I focused on how "cool" the groove sounded. While the arrangement of the music is important, the lyrics connect the congregation to God.
2. There should be some variety and creativity in the song. We all are different, yet uniquely created by God. It is important that the new song does not sound like all the other songs the church is singing. As Bob Kauflin said, "Musical variety communicates God's heart for all generations, cultures, and races."
3. The song should encourage the church to worship God. My personal philosophy is vertical worship (songs that draw one's attention upward to God). New songs are easier to sing when the focus of the song is on the Lord.

It is essential for the worship leader to lead the church in all types of songs (hymns, choruses, new music, etc.). It is also important that the worship leader have a plan when selecting new music. I appreciate what God is teaching me through worship music.

"Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy."
Psalm 33:3 (NIV)