Dean Herman

July 3, Pastor Renatus saying thanks

Dean Herman — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:12:00 GMT

I've spoken with Pastor Renatus several times since my return from Africa. He never fails to say thank you numerous times for all were doing to make the dream of 5 Point in Africa a reality. As I was leaving Tabora Renatus had these words for our people.

July 2, The church & living conditions

Dean Herman — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:04:00 GMT

One of the coolest things I experienced while in Africa was watching the church burn a witch doctors tools. She had given her life to Christ and burning the tools signified Satan had been crushed. It was some kind of powerful. Following the fire I show the actual church in Tabora. You can see the orange tarp attached to the house with many people sitting on the ground or standing up. Due to the generous giving of our people the money for 200 plastic chairs has been sent to 5 Point of Tabora. How cool is that?

I also added some good footage of the village homes. These homes are what the majority of people live in.

Some random thoughts:
* 4th of July is this Saturday and we're using it to our advantage. We'll be GIVING away hot dogs, cotton candy, soft drinks & water, snow cones and have a bunch of inflatables of the kids to enjoy. We have over 150 people signed up to help reach into our community. The activities will get started around 4:00 but we have a lot of people showing up much earlier to set up. We still need water. If you can bring some by the church it would be greatly appreciated. If you still haven't signed up to help and want to, give the church a call at 850-0580.
* I am as excited as I've ever been about what God is doing at 5 Point. Why? Because people are starting to get it? They are serving others and giving to grow another church. Hold on people, we got good things around the corner waiting on us.
* Start a new series this week called Dean Works. Just a bunch of random messages God has given me. Hold on everyone, we gonna have fun.
* This Sunday we have a new singer breaking out singing I'm a lucky man. Have to come and see for yourself.
* Went fishing last night form 8:00 pm until 2:00 am. Caught one fish. But let me be honest. I had a blast. Saw the sun set, the evening was beautiful and got to hang out with some good friends. But the truth remains, I suck at fishing.
* Invite a unchurched person this week, promise you they'll enjoy it.
* See you Saturday and Sunday.

July 1, Tabora hotel and airport

Dean Herman — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:51:00 GMT

This past Sunday was an awesome day for 5 Point Fellowship of Easley and Tabora, Africa. The money for the chairs will be wired to the church today and we already have over $2,500 towards the land. Close to 70 people have signed up to give $1.00 or $2.00 a day towards our first church plant. I'm convinced next June we'll finish the building and have our first worship service together. Thank you Lord Jesus for opening the hearts of your people to reach others.

A bunch of people showed interest in going to Africa next year. We'll have a meeting in August to start the progress. Please know up front it will cost $3,000 - $4,000 a person. The majority of that is spent on air fare, lodging and food. If your serious about going you need to start saving up and praying now. Please understand, the church doesn't raise your funds, you do.

I've already received questions about where we stay in Tabora. Here is a video showing the hotel and airport. First time I've landed on a dirt run way in that big of a plane.

I also included a video of me handing out tootsie rolls to the kids and adults. It was a very special treat for them. I don't think of a tootsie roll as a treat but as an every day sweet. We take so much for granted in America.

Hope you enjoy!

June 30, Family Vacation

Dean Herman — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:05:00 GMT

The purpose of my blog has never been to impress people with my writing skills (I couldn't if I tried) or train pastors. Simply put, my blog is a look into the life of Dean Herman and our church, 5 Point Fellowship. This is a great way to keep up with events in my life and our churches. So in saying that, several people have asked about our vacation in Mexico. A picture is worth a thousand words so here we go:

The pool and ocean. You can see the mountains in the back ground.

On the boat ride to an island where we snorkeled I got sea sick. After snorkeling I was really sick.

A picture of the coast and the houses built into the mountain. The coast line is so different to ours here is SC.

Jacob has his eye on making a great catch at the pool.

We have an all inclusive package which means you just show up, order and they keep bringing the food.
We ate every meal in the resort because it was so good! I had a rib eye steak on three different occasions. Now you see why I'm trying to lose weight again. Gaining is sooooooo much fun but losing sucks!

The Herman clan chilling after dinner one evening.

After a hard day at the pool and ocean a man needs some relaxing time.

Andrew finally found his perfect mate, the store mannequin.

Me and my baby doll enjoying the moment!

June 29, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:39:00 GMT

It was great to be back at 5 Point yesterday. I missed the people, the worship and teaching God's Word here so much. After being gone for a month I was more than ready to get back into the swing of things.

Yesterday was an awesome start to the summer. I spoke about what God did in my life and how He used me in Africa. A very emotional and heart felt message. I spent a great deal of time on the vision God has given me for planting our first church. 5 Point of Tabora, Africa is up and running. Much more about this in the days to come.

Here are some of my thoughts on yesterday:
* Awesome to be back again.
* People were locked in to every word.
* Had no idea I spoke over 40 minutes. Don't want to apologize but I don't want it to become the norm.
* Worship was good. I missed worshiping with Tim and our band. Glorious one was incredible.
* Tears of the Saints with the video Corey made really brought home the message.
* Sharing the story about not healing a leper was by far the hardest thing I've ever had to share form the stage. It wasn't that I claim to be super spiritual but that I had missed out on doing something super natural for Christ.
* I asked people to help buy 200 chairs for our church in Tabora. Each chair would cost $10.00. I prayed God would lay on the hearts of our people to help. We had over $3,500 given. The other $1,500 will go towards buying the three acres of land we're looking at.
It will cost $7,000.
* Watching people bring their money and lay at the base of the chair on the stage was incredible. I was broken both services.
* I also asked people to give $1.00 a day. $30.00 a month for a minimum of one year. I had been praying for 50 people. Over 60 have signed up already and that doesn't count any of the staff. Many people signed up to give more than one dollar a day. We'll be able to buy the land withing two months and begin saving for the materials.
* My vision and hope is to have this church built and people worshiping within one year.
* Not sure how many signed up to make the trip to Africa next year. I'll have a meeting in August to get things started.
* I'm sure people some people want to know why were raising money for a church in Africa when we need money here. Fair question with a great answer. Jesus is very clear about giving. The more you give the more you receive. Were not doing this to receive. Were doing this because we are a church that wants to reach people for Jesus. But, I can't wait to see how God uses this to bless our church here in Easley.
* Spoke with Renatus this morning. He was overwhelmed with what God was doing here for their church in Africa.
He also sent me an e-mail thanking the church. Read below:

Dearest Pastor Dean,
I am greeting you in the name of Jesus our Lord and Savior. I hope that you are doing fine in the Lord. My family and the church and I are doing fine also. I received your text message regarding your speaking about our church. Thank yo so much.

I want to take this opportunity on behalf of my church and as a pastor to say thank you so much for your effort and everything you are doing for 5 point fellowship of Tabora. I love to see what God has started to do just in a short while. I know it is because His servant Dean (Big sexy) is a man of God.

I promise you that we will buy the chairs and do as you will ask us to do. Our joy as a church is beyond of normal. This has shown us that though we are facing muslims circumstances, we have brothers and Sisters who pray for us. The chairs and land will be bought and can show that we are serious and that we are preaching God who is able.

Again thank you so much. We will write a thank you email to your church also about this. Thank you so much for everything you have done.

In Him

* If that don't get you jacked up, well I'll leave my opinion unknown.
* Had some great friends from West End (church I served in Gaffney) here for our worship. So good to see them.
* Dwain spoke at one of his former churches.

Some other thoughts:
* The rest of the week I'll be showing some videos of Africa. Some of these things will rip your heart out.
* Tomorrow I'll show the video of me singing The Gambler in Mexico. I didn't realize I sounded that bad.
* Really excited about the future of 5 Point.
* Read in the paper that Wal-Mart is building a super center. I want 5 Point n the existing Wal-Mart building. Pray with me.
* Going to see Transformers 2 with my 10 year old tonight.
* Confession - I gained way too much weight on vacation. Will give you weekly updates, but I WILL LOSE ALL MY FAT!
* I'll be blogging Monday - Friday from now on.
* Just finished our staff meeting. We're all willing to make changes and do whatever it takes to win people to Jesus.

June 19, Remembering Dad

Dean Herman — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 01:48:00 GMT

My Dad has been gone for several years now. When he passed he gave me his Lincoln Navigator. Every time I drive it I think of him.
There are many days through out the year I draw memories from my heart and reflect on all the good times my Dad and I had. Dad gave me my love for the outdoors. Some of my fondest memories with Dad come through fishing and hunting. Since I was old enough to hold a fishing rod or a gun Dad had one or the other in my hands. Every time I'm sitting in a tree stand or zipping across the lake thoughts of Dad cross my mind.

I played football, basketball and baseball through my freshman year of High School. After that just football and basketball. Dad missed one football game due to unavoidable consequences and that was it. My Dad owned his own company, he built houses. Every summer I worked on one of Dad's jobs. We spent a lot of time together hanging out just being buddies. I loved my Dad dearly. I miss him and wish he was still here today so I could give him a call and tell him thank one more time for all he has done for me. I wish I could call him this Sunday and say, "Happy Fathers Day."

Below is a picture of me, my Dad and Grandpa. Three generations of Herman's doing something we all l loved dearly. The picture was taken in the mountains of Washington where Dad and Grandpa lived. Both of them are gone but their memories can never be erased from my heart and mind.

My Dad wasn't perfect by no means. There were a lot of things he and I completely disagreed upon. But, he was my Dad, he loved me, he provided for me and he stood behind me regardless. I love you Dad. I miss you.

If your Dad is still living today don't forget to give him a call and let him know what he means to you. IF your one of the many who has a Dad but haven't spoken to him for years due to whatever why not pick up the phone and give him a call? The day is coming you'll wish you had. IF you have the money, buy something nice for your Dad. I know from personal experience, ain't nothing like getting a hug and kiss (gifts are pretty cool also) from the most important people in your life.

HAPPY FATHERS DAY to the many Fathers I have the honor of hanging out with.

Few random thoughts:
* Heading to Mexico in the morning and can not wait.
* Won't be blogging anymore until June 29th.
* Going to the lake today with the family & some friends. Little pre-Mexico sun.
* I have missed teaching God's Word at 5 Point. Can't wait until Sunday after next. Message is already finished. I can promise you it is going to be an awesome Sunday. Make plans to be there and bring a friend.
* Praying for Randy Nichols as he speaks this Sunday.
* Have a lot to do today. I haven't packed yet and we leave early in the morning.

See you June 28th.

June 18, Africa pictures

Dean Herman — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:51:00 GMT

Below you will find some of the pictures taken in Africa with a brief description of each:

Here I am giving the kids tootsie rolls. They loved them. You can see my video camera in my hand. They also enjoyed me taping them and allowing them to watch it. You can see a house in the background. The bushes were standing in were used for food (ate the root( leaves for tea and burnt to cook with.

Renetus Cosmos, the young man I fell in love with. He is the pastor of the church we worked with. Great man who loves Jesus, his family and the people of Tabora.

Here is a picture with some of the pastors I was teaching. The house in the background is the meeting place for the church. Sits in the center of the village. The house is an excellent example of the majority of homes. Bricks with a tin roof. Also pictured are the seats for the church. Some rocks or bricks with a piece of scrap wood.

A very god picture of a normal home. Some will have tin on the roof instead of the straw.

The children will literally break your heart. So many children. Here is a very good picture of a young boy and girl in front of their house. Notice the 5 gallon bucket of water at their feet. This weighs 40 pounds and they have carried it from the public well to their house.

On Friday we visited the leper colony and delivered the food. Here is a common resident. I will be sharing much more about the leper colony on June 28th. There are no words to describe what took in place in me during our visit.

On Saturday morning we left our African friends and headed to see some other sights. Safari bound. We saw thousands of animals including zebras, elephants, rhinos, hippos and lions.

The last picture doesn't do justice for the beauty of the mountains and crater we were in. The flat land in the bottom was a 17 by 20 mile
crater which we drove around in watching the animals. It was awesome. Great way to finish the trip before heading home.

June 17, Africa, part 3

Dean Herman — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:10:00 GMT

I'm not sure what I was expecting as I headed towards another continent. I knew the people and surroundings would be completely different from America. I knew the living conditions and roads wouldn't be anything close to what we have here. But I wasn't sure what God had in store for me. I had been praying for several things to happen:
1. I wanted to teach God's Word and make a difference in the lives of other pastors. So many pastors have helped me.
2. Asked God to rip my heart out and give me a new love for others.
3. I begged God to let me see and do some super natural things. Things only God could do.
4. Asked for safety there and back and protection while gone or all of us and our families.
5. Lastly, just asked God to do whatever HE wanted in me.

I don't want to share some things until June 28th. But let me share how God answered several prayers.

First, my heart was ripped out for these people. Jo Anne Case organized the trip and she told me she had prayed for God to speak to me about doing something for these people. This was her second trip to Tabora and she knew the hurt and pain involved. Her prayers were answered. I'm praying through exactly how God wants me and our people to help the village of Tabora. Much more of this on June 28th.

I've already begun writing the message for the 28th. I want it to be completely done so I can enjoy vacation, but I already know there is one portion that could be the most difficult thing I've ever shared with our church about me. I don't want to say anything else because it is too difficult. Please pray for me as I give this heart felt message.

Second, God did some stuff in me I hadn't asked for but He knew needed to take place. I think of myself as a very giving person. We tithe 20% and give to other ministries and people as needed. I truly want to bless others as God has blessed me. I'm not a rich man but I am debt free (except house) and live very comfortably. The thing God worked on me and I wasn't asking for or ready for is the finances God has given me. Do I want to invest into heavenly things or just earthly? Please hear me, I'm not going all psycho on you. I will continue fishing and going out to eat. Heck, I'm heading for Mexico on Saturday. But heres the deal, I can make a difference in the lives of many others with some of the finances God has entrusted me with. I'm praying through exactly what God wants the Herman family to do financially.

Third, God helped me to understand just how much I take for granted in regards to my family. I love my family so much, but there are times I wish I was 100 miles from them. And being honest, its usually because I'm in a bad mood and has nothing to do with them. But when you are thousands of miles away and sitting in a room all by yourself you begin to wish you were holding those you love most. Jacob, my ten year old, is just like me. In fact many call him dj (dean junior). He can literally drive me about nuts at times. (Mom always told me she hoped I had a son like me one day, thanks Mom). Getting off the plane Jacob was the first to run and meet me with open arms. 12 days away from Deb was hard. She truly is the woman of my dreams. Sunday night was the first time I got to see Hudson and he didn't want me to put him down and just kept hugging me. Isn't it amazing how easy we forget about some of the most important things in life? I can't imagine life without my wife, kids and Clary's.

Fourth, God knows I'm a man of action. God knows my personality, he created it. He knew once I saw Tabora I would have to do something about it. I'm so excited about the 28th as I share what God has stirred in my heart. Action will be taken, question is, will you be involved or worried about buying a bigger house and another car?

Tomorrow I will put up a bunch of pictures from the trip. You know the old saying, "a picture is worth a thousand words."

June 15, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:08:00 GMT

I know this is a day late but I wasn't around a computer until after 5:00 and didn't feel like writing. And yes, I realize I didn't speak at 5 Point but I did speak in Virginia and I was on the phone with several people quick as I was out of my service checking in on 5 Point. Truth is, I've missed being with all of you the past three weeks. And let me be honest up front, I won't be there this Sunday either. I'll be in Mexico with my family and the Middleton's on vacation. We're leaving this Saturday and we'll return Saturday the 27th. Our very own Randy Nichols will be teaching God's Word for us. In fact, he is my personal coach in the ministry and pastored for many years. He is an awesome man of God and public speaker. You'll get some more good preaching for a change!

I also realize this is my fourth Sunday in a row of not being at 5 Point. This was planned out months ago. The Africa trip, family reunion in Virginia and vacation were purposely planned in that order. All my mentors, personal ministry friends and coach advised me to get away from the church so that I could lead our church for many years to come. I'll share more about this later. Right now I want to talk about Sunday morning.

I had the honor of speaking at the church Debbie and I were married in. They put on their sign that I was speaking. I had former teachers, coaches, friends, best man in our wedding and a lot of family attending. There were 100 people there just to see how in the world God could have changed a self absorbed, wanna be jock into a pastor. I was a little nervous (as usual before I speak) but once I got going, I was ok.

Here is the sad part. I've been gone from Wise, Virginia since 1980. The church had a lot of the same faces and not many new ones. My heart aches for this church because if change doesn't take place, they will slowly die off. They we're singing the same songs, had the exact same order of service, a lot of the same choir, etc. A beautiful auditorium that holds over 500 and only 100 or so come each week. The church seemed crowded with all or folks. I said all that for this, I love 5 Point Fellowship. I love the way our people enjoy being in God's house and I love the freedom you give me to teach God's Word. I am so excited about teaching again Sunday after next. I'll be sharing about what God did in me while in Africa. I truly believe this will be the most heart felt, God led and emotional message I've ever taught. Make plans to be there and bring a friend.

Something really cool did happen while in Virginia. At least 50 people came forward during the invitation. All ages came. Tears were flowing and God was moving. The Pastor stood up and told his people he was glad to see there wasn't seat belts in the pews because it had been so long since anyone had moved. I can only pray the people meant it.

Heard everything went great again at 5 Point. I rally appreciate Lawson and Clark filling in for me. I plan on watching their messages on line. I spoke to several people I trust and all of them bragged on both of them. Thanks guys.

I got home form Virginia Sunday night just in time for the youth service. I seldom get to attend one of their services so I took the opportunity to do so. WOW is all I could say. Dwayne concluded a series on sex and it was awesome. The best message I've heard on sex from a youth pastor (except for me of course when I was in youth ministry . They had naked mud wrestling and it was great. Seriously! The band did awesome and I felt the teens left better understanding God's Word. I was so impressed with Dwayne I asked him to speak for me the next time I'm gone. But that won't be for a while.

Couple of thoughts:
* I know this is long but it for Monday and Tuesday.
* 4th of July is REALLY close. Have you signed up to help serve our community? Have you brought water? We need both.
* The 4th is an awesome opportunity to let our community know we want to serve them. We want to love on them just because.
* I continue to think about how fortunate I am to live in America.
* For those of you that don't know, my wife rocks. I missed her so much and I'm glad to be sleeping with her again. Nothing personal to Chuck Finley, I really do love the guy. We had a blast in Africa together. But, I'm just saying.
* Really looking forward to leaving for Mexico on Saturday. By the way, the entire trip is paid for. We put money back every week for our family vacation. We even have the cash put back. I have full intentions of having a great time. As of know we plan on:
a. scuba diving
b. zip lining across the jungle
c. laying by the pool & ocean a lot
d. para sailing
e. renting a jet ski a couple of times
f. eating a lot of Mexican food
* Mexico may never be the same
* Staff meeting in a little while. Love those guys. I've been gone a month and everything going fine.
* Heard about another pastor falling. One of, if not fastest growing churches in Gaffney PAstor had an affair. PAstors, keep your penis in your pants unless with your wife.
* To all the wives, please understand how important sex is to a man. You can help your marriage greatly by pleasing your man! Really!

More on Africa in the morning.

June 12, Things I learned in Africa number 2

Dean Herman — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:20:00 GMT

Please know there is no real order in the things I learned while in Africa. I just began writing some down while flying.

2. I love living in America.
A lot of discussions are taking place right now about our country. The economy, the President, etc. etc. etc.
After spending 8 days in Africa, I'm proud to be an American. I will look at America differently. I will look at the liberties we have differently, for example. Women in Africa have no rights. If a man wants to have sex with a woman and she declines. He will follow her and rape her. No big deal. No charges, no consequences. That just ain't right.

Here are just a few things we all take for granted on a daily basis:
1. Running water. I was amazed at how women could carry a baby on their back, a 5 gallon bucket of water on their head (which by the way, weighs 40 pounds) and sticks for the fire in their arms. This was just part of their life.
2. Electricity - the majority of Africans do not have electricity.
3. Paved roads - I've never been so glad to see pavement. We landed on dirt run ways twice in two different air ports in Africa. The trip from the hotel to the village was always an adventure.
3. Toilets - wish I had a picture (will have on Monday). The majority of Africans that live in the bush stand and squat.
4. Police man - we need order to service.
5. Air conditioning - I enjoy sitting at my desk and being cool right now.
6. Food - the majority of Africans just try to survive day by day. They are recession proof because they have nothing.
As we were getting ready to leave the lepers colony I saw men and women crawling over to the area we'd been giving out the corn. They were picking up the spilled kernels. This would give them something else to eat another day. As Americans, we don't think that way. Africans can't imagine one trip to the buffet bar at Golden Coral.
7. Vehicles - you are considered wealthy if you have a bike in Africa, much less a vehicle. They walk everywhere. Some of the people walk miles to come to church. Here, some people complain if we ask them to park across the street allowing visitors a parking spot. In fact, some refuse to walk and park here anyway.
8. Health care - America may not have a perfect plan, but there is medical care for everyone here. Not so in Africa, you get sick, you lay on a dirt floor.

The list could go on but I think you get the picture. America is by no means perfect, but she is a great place to live.

June 11, Things I learned from Africa part 1

Dean Herman — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:11:00 GMT

Things I learned from Africa - number 1:
I went on a mission trip to Costa Rica two years ago and it was incredible. But let me be honest, it couldn't even compare to what I saw and experienced in Africa. The one thought that I can't let go is this, "people shouldn't have to live that way." That is the first thing I learned in Africa. Starting next week I'll share pictures from the trip. Words can't express the living conditions.

A typical house consist of mud and straw bricks. They will go build a square with another room if possible. They cover it with tin and leave a space to get in and out. Can you imagine living in this on a 110 degree day with no air conditioning or even windows? All floors are dirt. But the amazing thing is that they are very clean. They sweep the dirt daily and keep what they have clean as possible.

On Friday we went to the leper colony. I wasn't prepared for what I'd see. Because I have so much pride, I acted as if didn't bother me. As we left and headed for a local private school, one of the women asked what was turning in my head. Oh the wheels were turning, but I was trying to hold the tears back.

Since that day I've had a lot of trouble sleeping. I woke up again this morning at 4:00, laid there until 5:00 and finally just got up. Began reading my Bible and praying. My heart goes out to these people. But heres the deal, I feel as if I should be doing something about it. I have begun looking at my finances a lot differently. Jesus gave me this verse sitting on the porch of our hotel Monday morning before we headed home. I memorized it right then.

Matthew 6:19-21
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. [20] But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. [21] For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

I have four paid for vehicles. Would I be willing to sell one and give the money to the lepers colony? The money could feed them for a year. That would be storing up treasures in heaven. Would I be willing to sell the beautiful home I have and buy something smaller and give the left over to build a church in the village I was working in? That would be building treasures in heaven.

Let me get a little personal, would you be willing to give up something to help people live a better life style? Think of how much money you and I waste every day. Think of the money you store up on earth yet very little for God's Kingdom. People shouldn't have to live like that anywhere on this planet.

In Wild Goose Chase, MArk Batterson shared a prayer he prays regularly, "help me help people." As I read this sitting in the airport I held back the tears. I am in the position to help a lot of people, but am I willing to do it.

You will hear A LOT more about this on June 28th as I share about my trip and what I learned.

June 10, Home from Africa

Dean Herman — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:02:00 GMT

I'M HOME! I am literally wiped. We left Monday morning at 9:00 am, drove three hours to the airport and started our journey home. WE finally landed in Greenville 8:30 pm Tuesday evening. In reality, that was 3:30 am Wednesday for us. I only slept three hours during the entire trip. I was able to get emergency or bulk head seats on every flight. All in all, travel went very well.

The next couple of weeks I will be blogging on what I learned from my Africa mission trip. I wrote a bunch of these out on the plane ride home. I can guarantee you this trip has changed my life. I will NEVER be the same. I wasn't prepared for some of the things I encountered. I'll be sharing these events through out the upcoming blogs. Tonight I plan on having dinner with the family and doing a bunch of nothing.

Sitting in Africa waiting on our plane I was reading MArk Baterson;s Wild Goose Chase. The book is incredible. Anyway, I read this statement, "A change of pace + a change of place = a change of perspective." Oh how true! My perspectives have been changed through
the change of pace and place.

I am asking you to please pray for me about the message on use 28th. IT could be the most God led, emotional and difficult message I have ever given. I'm confident it will be the launching pad of many mission trips for many more people. I will be sharing some experiences and videos from the trip. Took 151 videos. Watched a bunch today and it continued to stir emotions.

I'll be meeting with the staff tomorrow. Really missed all of them. When you spend as much time together as all of us do, can't help but miss each other. Being honest, they were probably glad to get rid of me for a while. Give them some peace and quiet around the office.

I want to finish by sharing some very heart wrenching news. On the way home Deb looked at me and said she had some bad news. I didn't know what to expect. Then came the bomb, one of my favorite pastor buddies had resigned. Gary Lamb, pastor of Revolution Church in Canton, Georgia resigned to an emotional and physical affair. I read his resignation blog and listened to the announcement given to the church. My heart is broken for Gary, his family and the body of Christ. I have already begun praying for Gary and all those involved.

I shared this with you because I'm asking that you would pray for me. I love my wife dearly, I love what God has called me to do dearly and I love this church very dearly. But as Gary himself said, "I let my guard down." Pray that I will keep my guard up because I am more passionate, excited and willing to reach this community for Jesus than I have ever been and Satan will be coming due to the difference were going to make.

What I learned form Africa and how it changed my life begins tomorrow. Deb has dinner about ready and I'm pumped about eating with her and Jacob at home.

June 1, In Africa

Dean Herman — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 17:44:00 GMT

It is Monday evening and I'm exhausted. It took over 2 days (50 hours) to get here. God blessed greatly in the trip here. I was given emergency row seating in the first two flight and actually had first class on the ten hour flight from Amsterdam to Africa. I was able to stretch out and get some sleep. Everything went fairly well through customs. Our taxi broke down from the airport to the room but everyone handled it well. A shower and the bed felt really good.

This morning everyone left me in Tanzania as they all traveled in to the bush (Tabora). I am staying behind to speak at a leadership conference. I spoke this afternoon on the topic of sex. Came from the passage in Hebrews 4 about keeping the marriage bed pure. Using a translator is a little different but it went very well. After speaking a woman stood and thanked me for my openness on the subject. They told me that had NEVER heard anyone speak about or even mention sex. They were all very appreciative.

The taxi ride back to the hotel was heart wrenching. I saw thousands upon thousands of people with no hope in their eyes. All they do day after day is try and survive. The average person here makes $80.00 a month and that would be considered very good. I saw people cutting the grass with hand clippers and machete's. Women carrying everything imaginable on their heads. So many hurting and hopeless people.

Everyone stinks here. The smell of body odor wreaks. This is due to many of them not bathing but once every two weeks or when possible. Running water is not a luxury as for all of us. I feel guilty as I lay in a hotel with water, a little AC and the Internet. What I had for dinner tonight could have fed a couple of families. Very humbling experience.

I will speaking most of tomorrow on leadership and vision. Using the book of Nehemiah as my text and example. Wednesday morning I will be flying out for Tobora very early. Will be teaching there Wednesday and Thursday. I know were going into the leper colony on Friday. Many of the people of 5 Point helped to raise over $1,000 which will be used to feed this colony. Not certain what the weekend holds until I reach the others on Wednesday.

To my family, I miss you dearly. Not being able to kiss and hug Deb is hard. Miss tucking Jacob into bed. I'd love to kiss Hudman and Grayman right now. I'm sure Andrew is busy making straight A's in summer school and Shell is always busy with the two boys. Please know I miss and love you all dearly.

Had the opportunity to speak to Debbie for 4 - 5 minutes a little while ago. She said Lawson did a great job Sunday. Thanks for stepping up and helping Law, love you buddy.

I will try and write again tomorrow evening. Excited about the opportunity to teach so many eager pastors about how to find God's vision for their life and church. Pray for me. Enough for now. Want to try and get some sleep.

May 28, Job

Dean Herman — Thu, 28 May 2009 17:56:00 GMT

Hey 5 Point, this is Ann,
Dean asked me to respond to a comment on his website:
What do I do if I know I’m not in the right job and actually hate my job?

Stay in the job you are working until…..
Focus on becoming financially free, gives you the ability to work on a better plan
Discover your passion in life – what is it you love to do – what are your skills
Pray for God to reveal to you avenues to pursue that passion
Act – try new things, dream big, be willing to go through open doors
Don’t be afraid of failure – failure only eliminates some possibilities
Trust God to see to your needs and to use you for something bigger
Once you succeed, give credit where it’s due and teach others how achieve success

In a 2007 survey by Life Science more than 60% of workers were unhappy in their current employment situations.

As some infomercials say - That was me before I came to work at 5 Point.
Mike and I had started our quest to be debt free. Since I’m a reader I had been devouring books on the subject and listening to Dave Ramsey’s radio station on line. Dave suggested several books to read. One was 48 Days to the Job You Truly Love by Dan Miller and as read it and others I became more and more dissatisfied with my job, not because of money. I earned a good paycheck. I enjoyed the people I worked with. I was doing something I knew. I was not frustrated with how to do the job. I couldn’t put a finger on the dissatisfaction, but I felt stagnate, like I wanted to do something more.

Then it hit me, what Joe Sangl says all the time was so true. I was not doing what GOD called me to do. I began to pray for answers, asking what it was I loved to do and what it was that God had gifted me with. After more praying and still working the job I had becoming so unhappy with, I started to look for open doors. Many times we are afraid to even peek in an open door. We are such creatures of habit, afraid of the unknown, of what might be behind that door. It could be the best job ever, the best friend you will ever have, the spouse you’ve been looking for, maybe the best dream you have ever conceived. Sometimes we just have to be bold, take a leap of faith because if you don’t you will never know. Jeremiah 29:11 (my favorite verse, tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

My open door was 5 Point, which brings up another point. I think we want to do something that makes us feel like what we are doing makes a difference, like we are contributing to something bigger than we are. Not that you have to work for a church to accomplish this, you can do what you love and help others too. Think about it, Dave Ramsey and Joe Sangl do financial stuff for a living and are helping others too. They are on crusades. They have taken a set of skills and used it to benefit not only themselves but others as well. You can find something like that too. Find your passion and look for the open doors.

God’s Plan for me:
God gave me previous jobs (good and bad) to build a set of skills
Put various people in my life (good and bad) to mold me
Chose me to be a child of God so I could depend and call on him (Pray) in times of need
Put Dave and Joe in my life – to help with financial stability
Made me miserable to cause me to change
Gave me courage to take a demotion and cut in pay
Opened doors for me (5 Point)
Uses me to help others in a multitude of ways
Gave Mike and I financial freedom. YEAH!!!!
Allows me to be a part of something greater than I am
Gives me hope and a future beyond my wildest dreams

There is so much that I left out. God’s plan for me may not always be what I intended.
He sees and guides the bigger picture, but I have to step out there (trusting Him) and see what he has in store for me behind the next door.
I dare you to ask or beg God to reveal His plan for you.

May 27, Why am I going to Africa

Dean Herman — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:59:00 GMT

Several people have asked me recently why I want to travel half way around the world to teach the Bible and share the gospel when there are plenty of people in my back door that do not know Jesus. To be honest, that is a fair question. I found a poem recently that helped me to answer the question.

Integrity

Integrity comes from the math term “integer” meaning a unit of one
Integrity speaks of your “oneness “
Integrity is about being a whole, undivided person
Integrity is the centeredness of your character
Integrity is walking your talk
Integrity is meaning what you say
Integrity is saying what you mean
Integrity is looking someone in the eye and telling the truth
Integrity is being honest when honesty is difficult
Integrity is putting the well being of others before your own
Integrity is behaving in such a way that will make your Father in Heaven proud
Integrity is when you say to a child, “do as I do” and feel good about it
Integrity is being good when good is’t fashionable
Integrity is doing the right thing, simply because it is the right thing to do
Integrity is standing behind your word
Integrity is who you are when no one else is looking
Integrity is when you stand before God, and hear him say, “well done my child”
May you live your life with integrity

I want to lead this church by example. I want my "Integrity" to shine before men.  If I'm going to challenge our people to share the gospel I need to be doing the same thing. God has opened every door for this trip to happen and I want to be obedient to His calling.
It doesn't make sense to travel half way around the world, but I know it is the right thing to do.
I want to hear God say, "you did good Son" one day. I so desire to make him proud.
This trip gives me the opportunity to do something God sized, not man sized. This trip will help my integrity!

Cool happenings about the trip:
* We needed a video camera for Reneatus (the African missionary) and it was taken care of.
* I wanted to take $700 to feed the leper colony and over $1,000 was given.
* Over 90 % of the funding for the trip has been raised.
* The people of 5 Point rock. thank you everyone for all your support.
* Every door has opened allowing us to make this trip a reality.
* Do I still believe in miracles? Been watching them the past couple of weeks.
* I stated three years ago I wanted to go to Africa for three reasons:
    a. Train pastors
    b. look for an area to plant a church
    c. to see, feel and experience things I'd never be able to in America.
God has put me in touch with Barry Wood Ministries. I will be speaking at a leadership conference filled with pastors and laymen of the church. Later in the week I'll be flown into an area in which we I'll be able to experience b & c. One of the team members has told me the leper colony will literally change my life. God has arranged for all three to happen. WOW!
* I am praying about the exact messages to preach in the leadership conference and to the pastors.
* I want to be totally honest, I am somewhat nervous about speaking so many times with a translator.
* Now if God will give me a emergency row seat. I really need that thing.

I hope to blog every night while in Africa. I want to share my heart and experiences with you. If you don't see any new entries within the first few days, talk to you when I get home on the 9th.

PRAY FOR ME AND TEAM THAT GOD USES US GREATLY PLEASE!

May 26, Seeing things clearly

Dean Herman — Tue, 26 May 2009 14:37:00 GMT

I swim two or three times a week. Great cardio exercise without putting any stress on a bad knee. There are only two things I don't enjoy about my swims. First, you always smell like chlorine. Second, I can never get my goggles to stop fogging up. No matter what I try they continue to get foggy which results in me having to stop and wash them out. The good thing about washing them out is that I can see clearly once again.

As I make final arrangements for my Africa mission trip, I'm begging God to help me see things much CLEARER!

I leave this Saturday to head to Africa for 12 days. I'm praying for a bunch of stuff. Here are just a few:
* safety in travel and while there
* God to protect my family
* the trip won't be too stressful on Deb since I do most everything around the house
* God to use me greatly to train pastors and lay people to reach their communities for Jesus
* for the other team members
* health-after $500 of shots I should be fine
* for God to literally rip my heart out and help me grow in my faith
* to see things spiritually that I've never seen or experienced before
* that 5 Point can plant several churches in Africa and that God would lead me to His exact location
* to come home a changed man ready to attack this community for the cause of Christ

BUT, my biggest prayer is that God would speak to me about faith. Been reading a lot about faith lately. I want to have the faith to move mountains. The faith to do even greater things than the disciples of Christ. I truly desire to have my eyes opened and the glasses I look through cleaned. I don't want a foggy set of glasses anymore. I want all my attention on eternal things and not earthly things. I am praying for God to use me but that this trip will be about LIFE CHANGE in me!

Please pray with me that God does something super natural in me and that I can bring it home to share with all of you.

A few random thoughts:
* Spoke to a man at the YMCA this morning. When he found out I was the pastor of 5 Point he wanted to know why we do some of the things we do. After a great conversation he let me know just how happy he was that he had met me. He understood our vision much clearer. Clarity really can change perspective.
* Lwason Clary will speak for me the next two Sundays. Please don't lay out of worship. It amazes me that people think because the pastor isn't here its a free pass. Jesus Christ will still be here and HE desires your presence. Lawson will do a great job, he always does. Just hope he doesn't use big words and makes me look stupid.
* About tired of rain even if we do still need it.
* I'm a little worried about 26 hours on a plane. Big guys with bad knees don't do well on planes.
* Getting ready to begin our staff meeting. I would imagine they are glad to get rid of me for a few days.

May25, Thoughts on Sunday

Dean Herman — Mon, 25 May 2009 13:02:00 GMT

I love Sundays that we baptize because it shows the life change taking place at 5 Point. Some thoughts on yesterdays two services.
* Awesome day at 5 Point.
* Two people accepted Christ in the first service.
* People came forward to be baptized.
* We baptized over 20 people. Not sure of the exact number.
* Those who were willing to make a video before their baptism did a great job.
* Love to celebrate what is happening in the lives of people.
* In my opinion, worship was some of the best we've had.
* Jennifer and Daniel showed out on their solos.
* The two worship songs after baptisms were powerful.
* Attendance was great for a Memorial Day weekend.
* Had a lot of visitors due to baptism but the majority of them told me how much they enjoyed it.
* Received more money for the leper colony in Africa. Don't know the total yet. Let you know in the morning after Ann has counted.
* Walked through Kid Zone and watched the kids having a blast.
* Had a pastor friend come and visit us today and we went out to lunch. Had a lot of awesome things to say about his experience at 5 Point. Commented that space was our biggest growth barrier and he is right. I continue to beg God for our next building.
* The foyer area is so crowded and there is nothing we can do about it.
* Had several teens baptized and I love seeing young people come forward with their faith.
* We have so many people who volunteer and make Sunday happen. They get it, were here to serve.
* I enjoyed teaching especially since I didn't speak last week.
* Corey has been a good addition to the staff. The stage looks incredible. Did a great job with baptismal videos.

Some other thoughts:
* Went to Greenville Friday and received my shots for Africa.
* Going to spend the day with the family. Had planned on spending Memorial Day at the lake but the weather has changed our plans.
* Staff will be meeting in the morning due to office being closed today.
* Discussing summer series.
* I have a lot to do this week in final preparations for Africa.
* Can't wait to leave town but dread leaving my family.
* I hope to blog every evening and share my thoughts. Have to wait and see if possible.
* Instead of going to the lake guess I'll be doing some yard work today.

May 21, Why I love pastoring 5 Point

Dean Herman — Thu, 21 May 2009 00:03:00 GMT

LAst night Joe Sangle mentioned doing what you were called to do and it sparked a few thoughts in my head. I can't think of doing anything but pastoring this church. I seldom dread coming to work but look forward to it. Why is that? Several reasons:
1. I am doing exactly what God has called me to do. I feel sorry for people who literally hate their job.
2. Life change. Nothing jacks me up more than seeing people changed through Jesus Christ.
3. The people I work with. I don't think of our staff as the employees of 5 Point but as my best friends.
4. Seeing unchurched people actually enjoying coming to church.
5. Because of the vision God has given me. I so desire to see this city won to Jesus.
6. We have people who truly want to win this city.
7. I never have to wear a suit. I can wear jeans with holes in them.
8. People accept me for being the messed up individual that I am.
9. We don't have deacons!
10. We are unified in what God has called this church to do.
11. People have begun to expect to see life change and are surprised if it doesn't happen.
13. I love the worship that takes place each week.
14. The Colony Theater is a really cool place.
15. There are unchuched people everywhere waiting for us to go and get them.
16. The staff loves me regardless of my flaws.
17. We have some of the best volunteers around. Without you this church would not exist.
I could go on but I think you get the idea. I love being your Pastor. I love the incredible things happening. Thank you for this honor.

Some random thoughts:
* This Sunday is going to be awesome. Baptism always get me jacked up.
* I didn't get to teach last week so hang on.
* Joe Sangle did an awesome job on Sunday and last night. I bet he'll be back again.
* A couple in our church stepped up and bought a camera for Reneatus (African missionary). THANK YOU!
* I still need more money for the leper colony I'll ne ministering to in Africa. Received over half of it. Need another $300 - $400.
* Going to get shots on Friday. I dread it. Not the shots but putting all that junk in my body and the $500 plus.
* Meet with my coaching network today. We'll be meeting at Marathon. Look forward to seeing the new youth building.
* Really been praying and begging God for whatever building he has in store for us.
* Loving this weather.
* After last night I want to start a financial experience home group.
* Continue to pray and beg God to pour vision, boldness and leadership into me. I so desire to build His Kingdom.
* BEGGING GOD to do something big in me while in Africa.
* I know you may think this is stupid, but I'm asking God to give me the faith to believe in healing and super natural events.
* I dread the 26 hour flight to Africa. I am entirely tooooooooo big for those little airplane seats. Probably should have bought two.
* Gotta head to Marathon.

May 20, The missing link

Dean Herman — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:06:00 GMT

If you watch the news at all you've heard all the buzz about the missing link. This 25 million year old proves (they say) that evolution must be real. This really bothers me for a couple of reasons:

1. It goes completely against God's Word
Genesis 1:26
Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."

I can't believe God looks the picture above. That would be scary. We were created in his image!

2. Scripture tells us clearly that people will not listen to God but what they desire to listen to.
2 Timothy 4:3
For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

That time is now. I'm not going to argue with people who believe we started out millions of years ago looking like the above picture. I'm not going to be rude or mean spirited about the subject, but no amount of science can make me believe their theories. I must continue to rely upon the Word of God as my ultimate source.

The only missing link for many is the absence of Jesus Christ in their life!

May 19, Courage and boldness

Dean Herman — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:48:00 GMT

I had my weekly Bible Study/Accountability time with my Liberty High coached this morning. We've made our way to Joshua. As I was reading early this morning preparing for our time together a portion of scripture really hit me. Read Joshua 1 with me here:

Joshua 1:6-8
"Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. [7] Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. [8] Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

If there is anything the church of America needs today it is courage and boldness. The majority of church goers keep their faith to themselves because they are scared to death to say one word about Jesus.

I love what God the Father tells Joshua next, "Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you." God is telling Joshua to stay in God's Word. Can't you hear God today pleading with his children, "grow a spine and you can do that by hanging out with me in my Word?" God goes on to tell Joshua to meditate on it day and night in fact.

I love how God finishes this portion of scripture with Joshua, "meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

God is telling Joshua and I believe us, grow a spine, spend time in the Bible (which is hanging out with God) so that you can be prosperous and successful. You want success? God just gave us the formula.

Now, pray for boldness and courage. Ask God to speak to you as you read His Word and then go and do something radical for Jesus!