August 31, 2008 by Joel Miller.

So I’m afraid it’s true.

Christians really have been so incredibly hypocritical, judgmental and arrogant that they have literally driven people away from faith.

How did we ever get it in our heads that God is a God of exclusion?

Posted in sheer dismay | No Comments »

August 31, 2008 by Joel Miller.

Well, I’ve been up tonight fixing a bunch of crap issues for our church’s network. I’d rather sit through a Barry Manilow concert. Oh well…

I just finished the 7th day of school (thanks to TS Fay). So far, so good. I have had very few issues with students not meeting my expectations. Being a 2nd year teacher is much, much easier than being a 1st year teacher. I love this job, and I am usually very relaxed while I am there.

I’ve noticed something of interest. Others–mainly teachers–seem astounded when you try to help them. I drilled some dry-erase and bulletin boards into the wall (and also into my hand, long story) for several of the teachers because the maintenance staff was behind and school was starting. You’d think I snatched their children from the jaws of death by the reactions I got. Not that I minded–their gratitude was clear and appreciated–it was just surprising HOW surprised they were. To me, people are supposed to help people. To me, it was no big deal. That’s how it’s supposed to be. And they showed the same character…all throughout my first year, these people bent over backwards to make my life easier.

I guess it just goes to show that what should be considered ordinary is often considered extraordinary.

Posted in personal/career, intentionality/missional living | 1 Comment »

August 1, 2008 by Joel Miller.

Just finished working Freshman Connection at Orange Park High, and I have to say that I’m incredibly excited about this upcoming school year. I’m glad to say that I’ve associated myself with the teachers that are chomping at the bit to get back to work…we love our jobs and we love our kids. It’s interesting, because I had a weird first year trying to figure out whether I’d be able to handle teaching as a career. I worked two jobs…as a teacher and as a worship director at Murray Hill. It was CRAZY, as the first year of teaching is overwhelming and there are so many things to learn. But around the end of the year, I got the hang of it. I realized that I was in control of my classrooms and we were having a great time and learning a lot. Now, I have the opportunity to do it right and start strong.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m still terrified by how busy I’ll be this year. I’m still also the worship director at Murray Hill, which has many responsibilities I have to balance, and I’ll also be taking classes on Monday nights (4 hours each week with an online counterpart) to get my certification. So, it’s gonna be hectic and crazy, but it’s also gonna be rewarding. Just know that if you ask me how I am doing, I’m quite likely to say “great, but tired”. However, in March I’ll finish school and then do spring break realizing I have a huge chunk of time back for the rest of the year.

Here’s to another year of teaching kids and hopefully changing lives. In only 16 days.

Until then, TO THE BEACH!!

Posted in personal/career | 2 Comments »