Band of Brothers News Letter

No Matter the Cost : November 2007 Volume 1 - Issue 1Welcome Brothers!

We’re finally engaged in a new journey, the first issue of “No Matter the Cost” – the monthly Band of Brothers email newsletter! We welcome all of you as brothers in our organization. You are receiving this because in one way or another weve crossed paths with you and you’ve been entered into our database. Thank you for being with us through the years. We hope with this launching of a new community-building communication[http://www.bandofbrothers.org/html/GifttoFriendBrother.html], that the Band of Brothers purpose and vision will be even more fulfilled and brought forward. Our purpose, which we have striven to faithfully fulfill for over six years now, is that, “We offer the brotherhood of Christ to men fighting to move from success to meaning, addictions to freedom, and selfishness to God’s call.” We are engaging for the Kingdom through fighting for men in this way. We ask you to join us in this noble calling, for you are essential to the cause! Let us know what you think of this first edition of “No Matter the Cost” – we want to serve you, the community of men with whom we are engaged in this battle of life, as best as we possibly can. By God’s grace we’ll fight well to the end.


From Success to Meaning

Why is it that I long to be part of something more than mere“success?” Why does my heart raise a sword when watching movies like Braveheart, where men are willing to lay down their lives for a cause greater than themselves? Why am I attracted to battle scenes where manwill risk their own lives to save a fellow warrior and friend? Why is my soul’s desire to leave a legacy of eternal meaning versus having a life of worldly success and significance?
Most of my life I have tried to find real meaning through my vocational career. For most of my working life, I have enjoyed the competitive software and Internet business environment. Although achieving corporate goals brings temporary satisfaction, it is hardly something that “takes my breath away,” nor is it a cause noble enough to die for. My wife has appreciated my secular work, because it supports our family financially. But it is very hard for her to understand why I have wrapped so much of my life and manhood into a temporary cause such as “revolutionizing the software industry.”
At Band of Brothers, our hearts desire a life mission bigger than“making a living.” We long to be a part of a larger story –something that has eternal implications and is noble enough to die for -and to live for! We not only want a noble cause,[http://www.bandofbrothers.org/bob/html/BandingTogether.html] but we want to have other men beside us who would come to our rescue, and to whose rescue we would go. We would fight side-by-side on our heroic journey, and our wives would send us on our way with a soft kiss and would look upon us with eyes of admiration. Our children would yearn to hear the stories of our adventures, and our God would greet us when the battle is finished with, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Such desires were eloquently expressed in Shakespeare’s Henry Although the English army was outnumbered 5 to 1 and was facing inevitable death and defeat, King Henry’s words inspired the souls of his tired and exhausted men. By giving the men a vision for the "more" of life, arm-in-arm these men were willing to enter the overwhelming chaos before them - "...We few, we happy few, we band of brothers." (Please read the speech of Saint Crispin’s Day[http://www.bandofbrothers.org/bob/html/AboutUsandourName.html] here on your website, one of the truly great moments in English Literature depicting what it means for us as men to be called into a noble cause)
We believe God made men for such a cause, such relationships, and such honor. God created us for a worthy mission – yes, a battle – to which He is calling us. Yet, too often we believe Satan’s lies that we were not made for something so meaningful and significant, so we often live out of our smaller stories and drink from lifeless water. We men are living in a generation of thievery. Although I am thankful for my secular vocation and its provision for my family, I pray it is a clever front for a greater mission that is righteous and worthy. I pray Christ's brothers of this generation will have the courage to refute the lies and to live out the purpose for which we were created. I pray that on our deathbeds we can reflect on a legacy where we engaged in the Lord’s battles, where we risked everything in the attempt to save our families and our brothers, and where we are ready to take our honored place in a story that will be told and celebrated for an eternity. We are living in important days, and "we few, we happy few, we band of brothers" do not want to miss out!
(Submitted by a Brother)
Foundation of the Heart Legacy Fund
Foundation of the Heart is the 501(c)(3) non-profit arm of Band of Brothers. We offer a Donor-Advised Fund, your Legacy Fund, to release Kingdom resources and to serve the "least of these."
Please continue reading to learn more.
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me….I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

”Matthew 25:34-36, 40

- Foundation of the Heart is uniquely positioned to help release resources into ministries and organizations that are achieving God’purposes around the world.
- Foundation of the Heart manages your Legacy Fund, working with you, the Donor/Advisor, to identify how, when and to which ministries and organizations you wish to make periodic distributions.
We believe God places in the heart of every believer a desire to help those in need – His children – His beloved.
Foundation of the Heart, a Colorado based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, can assist in two ways:First, if you don’t already know God’s desire for a portion of your resources, we will help uncover your heart’s passion, whether it involves rescuing children from poverty, feeding the hungry of the world or helping fund a start-up ministry. Second, by creating your “Legacy Fund,” you have a place where you can “park” donations (and receive your tax deduction for IRS purposes) until your heart is touched to direct the funds to a particular need.* It is our goal that you give out of the wellspring of your heart to what stirs your heart most. When people give from their hearts, they “shall be… like a spring whose waters never fail.”
(Isaiah 58:11)
Our concept goes beyond the Legacy Fund you establish with us. We walk alongside you as you purposefully define your legacy in giving – Your Life and Legacy.
*must be an approved 501(c)(3) tax exempt entity as authorized pursuant to IRS guidelines
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
-You qualify for a federal income tax deduction in the year of the creation of your Legacy Fund.-You are able to advise Foundation of the Heart in regard to distributions from your Legacy Fund – and the accumulated earnings of your Legacy Fund.
-Your estate may enjoy reduced estate taxes and probate costs.
-You may add to your Legacy Fund at any time in the future.
-You will be actively storing up treasure in heaven (Luke 12:32-34).We hope that you or your "band of brothers" would consider establishing a Legacy Fund with Foundation of the Heart. If you have further questions or are ready to start creating a legacy within the Kingdom in this way, please contact Matt at [mailto:matt@bandofbrothers.org?subject=Legacy%20Fund]matt@bandofbrothers.org, or 719-577-7777 ext. 3.
Upcoming Events
What Men Are Saying:
Band of Brothers has had an amazing journey offering support to the local church through a remarkable and unique Men’s Retreat – a retreat like no other. It is our catalyst event that challenges men towards a “No Matter the Cost” commitment to Christ and to not walk through this life alone - to journey with other men side-by-side in significant, life changing relationship. Visit our[http://www.bandofbrothers.org/bob/html/Retreats.html] Retreats page and watch the video to see what other men are saying about[http://www.bandofbrothers.org/bob/html/Retreats.html] their experience at a Band of Brothers Retreat.“
In twenty years of ministry I have never seen a men's retreat that addresses men's issues with more passion and vulnerability. I was overwhelmed with the transparency and genuine raw openness of the BandofBrothers' speakers. If it's up to me we'll revisit this relationship againandagain.” Bob Holloway , Pastor at The Rock- Real Community
Book Us In 2008:
We have space open in 2008 to serve your church through providing Amen’s Retreat unlike any that has happened for the men in your church before. If you would like to talk with us about the opportunity to serve your church in this exciting way, please email us at[mailto:service@bandofbrothers.org?subject=Retreat%20Information%20and%20Booking]service@bandofbrothers.org or contact us at 719-577-7777 ext. 3.
Our Recommendations Book
- From Wild Man to Wise Man by Richard Rohr
Seventeen years ago Richard Rohr, with the assistance of Joseph Martos,wrote The Wild Man's Journey. Friends gave me an early copy of that. Then in 2005, with the extensive work that Rohr had done around the world with men, the first book was retooled into From Wild Man to Wise Man. Uniquely,these researched works became the cornerstone book for most of the 'men's books' that you and I have read since 1990. A journey into this book, one of the original sources for pondering our lives as men with hearts longing for God, has encouraged my own soul, and informed much of my ministry in mentoring and ministering to men of any age. Rohr gleans from the cultural traditions from around the world, but lays them at Jesus' feet to explore every man's spiritual journey. He is dead on with what he suggests: His words are challenging... convicting... encouraging... and life-giving for any masculine soul. My copy is well worn, dog-eared, underlined and continues to be useful personally at deep levels and in every contact Ihave with any good man God brings across my path. For your own masculine soul...and for any friendship with another brother...this is a must read,several times over, about every 18 months.

(Submitted by a Brother)
Movie - The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)Though seemingly focused on a theme of revenge, don’t miss this amazingly portrayed classic story starring James Caviezel (Jesus in The Passion). The great themes of the Gospel are woven throughout this engaging high adventure drama. Watch for the intense portrayal of life’unfairness, the power of mentoring, commitment to a brother, sacrificing ones life for a brother, initiation of a son, God’s faithfulness overall and many other themes. A great movie to see and discuss with a teenage son, or with your band of brothers.
Music - Pages by Shane & Shane
This latest offering from the incredibly talented duo of Shane Barnard and Shane Everett continues a string of truly great albums. Their hearts of worship combined with their intense acoustic pop/Indy style will take you away on a immensely enjoyable listening journey. If you are new to Shane &Shane this will give you a full flavor of their work - if you are familiar with them already you won't want to miss out on this powerful compilation.[http://www.bandofbrothers.org]
News
Welcome Brothers!
From Success to Meaning
Foundation of the Heart Legacy Fund
Upcoming Events
What Men Are Saying
Book Us In 2008
Recommendations
Books
Movies
Music
Our Mission
“We offer the brotherhood of Christ to men fighting to move from success to meaning, addictions to freedom, and selfishness to God’s call.”
Band of Brothers Prayer Requests
The Band of Brothers Team will pray for you. Thank you for trusting us with your prayer request.[mailto:prayer@bandofbrothers.org?subject=Prayer%20Request] Make a Request
Monthly Scripture"
And the Saints over-came the accuser because of the blood of the Lamb,and because of their testimony. And they were not afraid to die."
Revelation 12:11
Donations
Thank you for your belief in the mission of Band of Brothers. You may make an on-line tax deductible donation through Foundation of the Heart.Please go to our website donation page and read more.[https://www.bandofbrothers.org/bob/index.cfm?ID=4C8255EE-6406-420C-868E3B7836025C83]
Make a Donation"
And the Saints overcame the accuser because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of their testimony. And they were not afraid to die."
Revelation 12:11
© Copyright 2003-2007 We Happy Few, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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The Map

A while back the lord gave me a partial map of the journey I was to take. In this journey there have been highs and lows, but the lord has always been there to guide me when I ask him to be.



Sometimes it seems like things are going very slow and my connection with god has been comprimised, but the feelings in these cases are not the truth. it doesn't matter how far off the path you think you are, grace is only one step back.



In many cases i find myself praying to make sure that the things that im doing are in gods will, sometimes he answers, but , when he doesn't i fall back to the last truth known to me, and go again.

How do you teach a man that doen't want to be taught?

answer: you dont



Men have to be first broken of the pride that has been instilled in them since they were boys, and we have no power to do that. only god does , and it will only happen in his time.



Men have to choose to do anything and everything that they will.



This journey that I have been set on is starting to take shape, it has taken two and a half years, but gods plan for me to lead men to fight for rightousness has begun.



It is so amazing to me, that through all the tests and trials, the failed ideas, and disapointments you can always fall into the arms of love that he provides, and let HIM lead the way.

At that all i can say is Thank You

Men...take notice.

Hey Willow Men.

I hope that you were all able to be at church this past weekend to see Rod Densteadt deliver his first message to our congregation. If not, it will be available on our website soon. (www.willowcommunity.org)

Rod did a great job, but that isn't exactly why I am writing this post. Rod is a great example of someone that has felt a call by God in his life. And Rod, who I believe might be in a minority of Christian Men, has decided to answer that call. Ok...so you might be saying, "Do I need to think that God has called me into full-time ministry?" Absolutly not, (unless you think that He has!!!). What I am saying, is that God has called you into SOME KIND of ministry. I can't tell you what that is, but I know that God has called each person that is in a relationship with Him to some sort of opportunity to minister. Maybe that is at home as a husband and father. Maybe that is in the workplace. Maybe it is to your friends. Maybe it is in your church, or the local soup kitchen...that is up for you to discern. But everyone that has entered into a covenant relationship with God is called to do something.

You might not think that you are qualified to do anything. I once thought that myself. But a good friend of mine once told me that "God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called." That has stuck with me for eight years now, and I hope that it sticks with you too.

Departing question: What has God called you to?

Thanks for stopping by.

D <><
Phil. 2:5

What Do Guys Do???

What do guys do?

What sort of things do guys think about?

What does it mean to be a guy?

(This is the kicker) Do you stop being a "guy" when you submit to Christ in your life???

I contend that the first three questions might have a myriad of answers to them, and that the answers given will probably be as different as the men that are giving them. But the answer to the fourth question will either be a resounding NO, or it will unfortunately be answered in ignorance. If you want to talk to a man's man, or a guy's guy, go talk to a Strong Christian man. I don't mean strong as in muscular, but as in strong in their faith. You think you are strong in your own ideas and morals and convictions??? Try checking out a man that is steadfast in his relationship with God. You want to see a man with confidence? Talk to a man that is assured of his hope for his future because of the promises that he gets from God, not like the promises of this world or the constant nagging of our flesh.

I say all of this to say, if you are unsure of wanting to submit to God because of a fear of being emasculated, don't be. At the point of becoming a child of God, you will at that point start down the road to becoming the man that God intended you to be.

If you have any comments, feel free to leave them. And if you have any arguments about a Christian being a "strong man", you can come down and talk to me, Brian Dodson, or Rod Densteadt (just to name a couple.) We will even arm wrestle you!!!

Happy Trails.
D <><

Phil. 2:5

Is Anyone Out There?

Hey...

If you are reading this, please respond back!!!!

D <><

Congratulations!!!

This Congratulations goes out to Rod Densteadt.

Last weekend Rod went to Grand Rapids with 3 other people to explore more indepth what it might look like for him to define his call into ministry more than he has been able to to date. Please be praying for Rod that he might be able to understand fully what God would have him do with his life, and with this calling that God has given us.

Thanks for visiting.

Dave <><

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all,

Im very sorry that I have been neglecting updates on our blog.
sooooo. here we go...
God has made himself very noticable in the last couple of months.
At the end of October, on Holloween we demonstraited gods love for all by having an event called Trunck or Treat. There were about 8 or 10 vehicles lined up in the church parking lot, all decorated for the occation and passing out candy for all the little trick or treaters. The B.o.W set up a hay ride for all to enjoy a ride around the church grounds and also some worm cider and donuts. Iunderstand that about 300 people came through this event, some conversations took place, alot of joy in peoples hearts to serve our neighbors. God provided the means to make this event a complete success. It was an awsome time to minister, and fellowship with our community. I'd like to thank all who participated with there time, donations of candy, or there cars. We were truly blessed. Thank You


Hey the month of November was one that will be talked about for years.
We had several events that really made a statement for who we are in gods eyes. The first event was the Mens Breakfast @ Fire Mountain Grill. Wow What a Breakfast, every one enjoyed a four course meal that mornin. Personally I had an omelette that was out of this world, combine that with all you can eat bacon and OJ, all I could say was Wow.
After Breakfast some of the men and I got together and proceeded to Miss Yevette' house to erect about 120' of picket fence. Building this fence served as a good ending to the Unleshing your Heart class on sunday mornings for the men, and a time to serve god with no string attached. We didnt do this alone though a representative from the Women of Willow was glad to lend a hand. Miss Yevette was very pleased with th end result, she sends her thanks to all. Good job Guys.


It is just amazing the way god allows us to serve him by serving others, this month has been great. We had an opportunity to help out one of our own members of BoW by framing in a new office space for him. Unfortunatly i dont have any pics but it was a great opportunity for the guys to get together an work with power tools. HaHa. In that same weekend some other brothers installed a new lighting system at the church and let me tell ya it works GREAT. Nice job Men.

Silver Bells In The City was the center of this months K.O. event. we teamed up with Faith' C.I.A event. Together about 80 members and friends showed up to share gods love to the city of Lansing, at the tree lighting cerimony downtown. It was fantastic we set up two locations on the parade route with power tools, tables, backpacks, coolers of HOT water, and hearts to spread the joy of Christ. It was great, we mixed hot chocolate in portable coolers and sent out crews of 5 to 8 people to reach out to people with a cup of warm coacoa, for free, just to show people that gods love is just as free all you have to do is accept it. Back at the trucks we did the same thing from a table set up with a portible cooler, at the end of this event we tallied up how many cups we had left, as it turned out we were able to reach about 4800 people, praise be to god for the success of this event. God is so good and His yoke is lite. God bless every one who participated in this event and all the soles that were reached that night.
Thank you to all.

I pray that we all remember what Christmas is all about, it is very easy to get caught up in the hussle and bussle of the holidays, please every one take the time to remember that we celebrate the Birthday of the one man who gave willingly his life for you. God bless and Merry Christmas.