Main Bloghttp://www.mickealmccool.comFri, 25 May 2012 01:13:56 GMTWed, 31 Aug 2011 14:00:59 GMTSurvival & New Beginningshttp://www.mickealmccool.com/survival-new-beginningsWed, 31 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolWhile the North East is still recovering from Hurricane Irene, we have power in our home and running water. As a former Californian, just typing that statement seems a bit odd! The storm didn't pack nearly the initial punch predicted, but the effects were real. Having no power and water is not a stroll through the meadow!

In contrast, today was the first day back to school for the twins, and the first day of school our oldest would not attend school. This is usually an emotional day on some level. Last year it was the first day of Megan's Senior year of high school and the twin's first day of Jr. high school. Today the twins were up extra early and at the bus stop 40 minutes ahead of the pick-up time! Amazing! However, it wasn't until I passed a small child on the corner, with her parents taking pictures of what was probably her very first day of school, that it hit me. It was a reminder of the sweetness of life that God allows us to experience in and through our children. It is a love that few things can rival. It is a reminder of His love for us, His children.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/survival-new-beginningsGreat Night!http://www.mickealmccool.com/great-nightSat, 27 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolA lovely drive through the green Connecticut hills led us to a small town called Ivoryton. We had 6:30pm reservations to a fine-dining restaurant at the Copper Beech Inn, a quaint Bed and Breakfast boasting one of the best pastry chefs in the world. The family was decked out.  Morgan was especially stylish in her black and red outfit accented with her brand new Converse!

Leigh-Ann and I presented the twins with purity rings which they accepted with the "terms of agreement," or vow of purity, until their wedding day. Megan was also presented with a ring celebrating her graduation from high school. The rings were original designs crafted out of a ring I presented to my wife the day the twins were born. The night was perfect, the Lord was present, we are blessed!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/great-nightSpecial Eventshttp://www.mickealmccool.com/special-eventsFri, 26 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolI had the honor of presenting our oldest daughter, Megan, a purity ring when she was nearing her 13th Birthday. The location was certainly special, as it was at a restaurant near the steps of the Sydney Opera House in Australia! Tonight we will carry out this important tradition, my wife and I value, as we present our twin girls, Madison and Morgan, with their purity rings! Though it is a secret , I share it with you now because I'm certain they don't read my blog! I'll report back next week!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/special-eventsIron Sharpens Ironhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/iron-sharpens-ironThu, 18 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolI still remember the day I realized my parents were not perfect. It was at that moment I realized I had to stand on my own two feet and accept responsibility for my life. Often times we are faced with the hard realities that those close to us may be holding on to views, past experiences, philosophies that may need some refinement in the context of a Biblical world view. Our spouses, kids, bosses, dearest friends, they are the ones the Lord will use to shape us through His care and grace, and us to them. Iron sharpens iron is a phrase used often in men's ministry circles, but it's true across the board. Let the sparks fly!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/iron-sharpens-ironWIHS Interview - Listen Herehttp://www.mickealmccool.com/wihs-interview-listen-hereMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolWIHS Interview August 12, 2011 1.mp3]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/wihs-interview-listen-hereRadiohttp://www.mickealmccool.com/radioFri, 12 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolThis morning I had a great time being interviewed by Gerry Williams at 104.9 Chriatian Radio, in Middletown, CT. It never ceases to amaze me how the Lord works to connect His people via any means available. I was blessed by the gentleman from Teen Challenge yesterday, I pray someone was blessed by my interview today. It's all for His glory. We're in this together for others.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/radio"Why God!?"http://www.mickealmccool.com/why-godThu, 11 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolIn 2005 I used to blog everyday. At that time it was more of a day-to-day account of life encounters, good, bad, or otherwise. There were reports of my many Scrabble victories, relationship issues with team members in ministry, and the sad account of when my wife Leigh-Ann began her journey with breast cancer. The blog ended in suspended animation when I needed to step down from ministry for a season. For nearly a year, if you clicked on my web site, the last blog date was October 10, 2005.

Last night there was an urgent message left for Leigh-Ann to call a close friend. The friend had just received the devastating news of an advanced stage of breast cancer. I was so proud of my wife, as she was able to soberly, but with care, walk our friend through the steps she would have take on the difficult road ahead. However, this morning as we shared our devotion, there was a righteous anger that came out of Leigh-Ann in the form of a question; "Why God!?" It wasn't a question of faith, but rather a statement of sorrow, and mystery about the things of God, and what was going on in her friend's life. Things of which we can't know the answers this side of Heaven.

What we do know, is that God is faithful and sovereign, and He is more than enough, even when we don't know the answers to the difficult questions. I'm grateful God can handle our questions, and even our righteous anger.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/why-godAppreciationhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/appreciationTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolAppreciation is a funny thing. It can come from anywhere, anytime, and at any level. A few days ago my wife, Leigh-Ann, expressed an emerging desire to have a dedicated space to create; Leigh-Ann is the most creative person I know. The obvious location would be our unfinished basement, where I have created a space for music production, along side the storage boxes, etc. from the recent move from California. Though we have greatly reduced our load, down about 75% from when we arrived, anytime I need to dive into the "stuff" it doesn't thrill me!

Yesterday I spent most of the day creating a creative space for my wife...it turned out great! It wasn't THAT big a deal for me to do it, but the appreciation came in waves all evening long. I was taken aback at how grateful she was. It reminded me that it doesn't take much to make a big impact in someone's life.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/appreciationUnitedhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/unitedThu, 04 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolI want to take an opportunity to greet you in the name of Jesus today. I am honored to walk and serve along side fellow believers. It is imperative for us to live our lives, not only for self, but for others. Together we make a difference.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/unitedExtreme Weatherhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/extreme-weatherFri, 29 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolBeing a California boy, born and breed, and now living in Connecticut, presents me with an opportunity to experience life in a much different context. I was able to visit California this past week, an amazing time of growing and sharing with some of the men in my family. The weather was perfect...every day! How does that happen?! Upon touchdown in Connecticut, the weather had been nice all day, so I was told, but light rain turned to a downpour! There were reports on the news about severe damage in places! Even today, it was nice and sunny when I left the house...it's dark and rainy at this moment.

I have often said my family is not here for the weather. We're here for one purpose only, to serve the Lord at Crossroads Community Cathedral. We believe this is where we are called to do ministry. The weather? Yes, it is extreme, the surroundings are beautiful, but the weather is sketchy! It doesn't matter. It's just weather. It is an external condition. We don't need perfect weather to be difference makers.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/extreme-weatherControlhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/controlWed, 20 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolJanet Jackson had a huge hit with a song of this title back in the 80's. Nice concept, but, unfortunately, not for those who are on a spiritual journey in pursuit of relationship with Christ. Maybe if the song were titled Surrender, it would be more appropriate. Transformation and conformation both resonate change for us, but one allows us to maintain control, the other allows God to be in control. Let us therefore be being transformed...

Until next time

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/controlMaking a Difference?http://www.mickealmccool.com/making-a-difference1Fri, 15 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolWhen do we know we are in the center of God's will? Big question, huh? I agree! Consider this:

When our relationship with God and Jesus has a bearing on the brokenness and pain in the world around us, we're pretty close to the center of God's will for our lives. Let's remember to get out of the box, boat...just get out!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/making-a-difference1Engage Me!http://www.mickealmccool.com/engage-meThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolLeading worship is a multi-faceted undertaking. In the role of a Shepherd/Pastor one must not only execute the music, lead the music team, and direct the congregation, but also be aware and engaged in the dance of response to and with the living, holy and amazing healer, Jesus! But wait...there is more! Translate this to inviting the participation of/from the congregation, and you have a dynamic worship service! Much easier said than done. Many Worship Leaders accomplish many of these steps, but regularly fall short of one or more, leaving the platform and congregation with a sense of "that was cool, but there is something missing." Unfortunately, I often fall into this category.

At the end of the day, it is an exhortation and invitation to us all, to engage the One who engages us first! We can only be responsible to bring what we have and lay it down at His feet. Unlike a Jr. High dance, you remember...boys on one side of the room, girls on the other! We must come boldly, with confidence to the dance floor and engage in the dance of our lives! It is His invitation. Engage me indeed!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/engage-meFields Of Gracehttp://www.mickealmccool.com/fields-of-graceWed, 13 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolWhen I see this title I think of Sting's popular recording. However, this title also belongs to a song by an amazing band called Big Daddy Weave. Between author Brennan Manning's "Furious Longing of God" and this rocking song, I am drawn to a deep sense of God's grace in my life, and my invitation by an ever-loving God to walk fearlessly as His Beloved!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/fields-of-graceBetter Is One Dayhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/better-is-one-dayTue, 05 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolIt seems like it has been awhile. God is good. That's not all I have to say, but above all else, God is so good.

Our 18 year-old graduated from high school, summer is in full swing, I've been in 5 states in 48 hours, and I attended a concert of one of my all-time favorites, James Taylor, who was surprisingly accompanied by Amy Grant and Vince Gill! Did I mention the concert was at Tanglewood in the Berkshires, in Massachusetts?

Funny though, as amazing as the concert experience was, I would rather spend an evening in worship with Tommy Walker...better is one day...

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/better-is-one-dayIntimacy Anyone?http://www.mickealmccool.com/intimacy-anyoneFri, 10 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolSometimes I forget that intimacy comes through the tunnel of adversity. Don't forsake the tough stuff!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/intimacy-anyoneUnrelentinghttp://www.mickealmccool.com/unrelentingThu, 09 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolIf you believe you're called to do it, be unrelenting in your pursuit of it. That's about all I have to say about that! Anybody got a box of chocolates?

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/unrelentingDesperate Longinghttp://www.mickealmccool.com/desperate-longingWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolIt's too easy to succumb to the mundane everyday tasks of existence. When we embrace the invitation of the Lord to dance the dance of a life in Him, there is a desperate longing to communicate, pray, laugh, love with him all day, everyday! He invites us! Will we come?

 

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/desperate-longingLove Thy Neighborhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/love-thy-neighborTue, 31 May 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolI think it's official, we have met every neighbor in our neighborhood! I don't remember us ever doing this before. The Lord is at work in our lives and the lives of others all the time. He chooses to use us in His matters on earth. If not us then who? If not now, then when?

Actually it was quite fun; Memorial Day, great food! Did I mention one of our new neighbors owns a catering business...thanks God!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/love-thy-neighborChazownhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/chazownThu, 26 May 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolThe past few weeks have been a blessing for me on a personal level, as well as a ministry level. Personally, I have been blessed by a book I am reading called "Chazown" which means vision. It is not only speaking to me, but also stirring a passion I have to lead our ministry teams beyond the tasks assigned to weekends.

We also hosted a conference with Buddy Owens on "The Way of A Worshiper." Buddy was great and the response was amazing! Spending time with Buddy was wonderfully refreshing!

I pray we are all pursuing our personal Chazown. The web site is great! Check it out. chazown.com

Until next time

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/chazownCan't Get Over Easterhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/cant-get-over-easterWed, 04 May 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolAfter many years in ministry, I have experienced the ebb and flow of planning through the Holy season. In the past, Easter week would be followed by a time away in the form of a conference, MusiCalifornia, very widely attended by Ministers of Music from around the country and the world. It was quite the yearly routine!

This year it is all different. No big breaks after Easter weekend, just the fact that Christ died at a specific time, for a specific reason. It seems we get caught up in living, for living sake. Whatever it takes to stay alive and breathing; a life of purpose is cool, serving is a good thing, maybe even a calling. There's no time to waste. I hope I never get over Easter!

Until next time.

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/cant-get-over-easterHeavy Hearthttp://www.mickealmccool.com/heavy-heartThu, 28 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolI've heard it said that God doesn't move quickly, but He does move all of a sudden. Our little Meggie Pie heads out to California today to finish her Senior year of high school with her class, then graduate this summer. What is it about these markers in our lives that are so heavy?! 

There is a love for our kids that can only be defined in the context of the deep love from a Savior. As I reflect on what it took for God the father to send His only Son to die, I get a small glimpse of the realities of His never-ending love for us, His adopted ones.

I thank God for the sacrifice, but also for the opportunity to steward such precious gifts in our children.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/heavy-heartIt's All Good!http://www.mickealmccool.com/its-all-goodFri, 22 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolOn this day about 2000 years ago, on a funky hill called the place of skulls, or Golgotha, Jesus died a horrible death on a cross. We remember with sadness because the pain of our sins paid for by a perfect sinless king is much to bear in our head and hearts. But that was the point. It was love that performed the greatest act of sacrifice ever! EVER! It is finished!

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/its-all-goodHow Did You Know That?!http://www.mickealmccool.com/how-did-you-know-thatThu, 21 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCoolHas anyone come up to you recently and asked about something that left you thinking..."How do you know that!" Only to remember that your wife posted it on Facebook as it was actually happening. When that pause occurs, where you're not really sure you want the/that person knowing "your business" it can be an inwardly awkward moment! Unfortunately, it's the world we now live in.

Ever think about the fact that God knows everything on an infinitely deeper level than Facebook ever could? Hmmm...just let THAT marinate for a moment. Oh yes...He still loves you too. Powerful stuff to remember as we approach Easter weekend.

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/how-did-you-know-thatSome Things are Just Too Hot to Handle!http://www.mickealmccool.com/some-things-are-just-too-hot-to-handleFri, 15 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

I like routine, but I also like to think I am pretty free-spirited at times. Today, I didn't have my routine breakfast of oatmeal. OK, there are bigger fish to fry in the world! In going with the flow, I toasted a bagel. I have often said that a freshly toasted bagel is one of the hottest items you can handle on the planet! Why then did my "AHHH!!!" resonate through the house this morning?

In life, we make decisions everyday. Integrity is an all-encompassing thing; it is living without compartments. We are not able to do "well" in one area of our life, and be failing in another. The trick...don't grab a bagel out of the toaster...you know what will happen!

 Until tomorrow,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/some-things-are-just-too-hot-to-handleDo You Ever Cross the Line?http://www.mickealmccool.com/do-you-ever-cross-the-lineThu, 14 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

As sinners saved by grace, it can get tough when we cross the line. Last night Leigh-Ann and I had a "discussion" with Megan, our 18 year-old.  The end of our "discussion" came to a climax which would have rivaled most scenes in reality TV! I felt horrible, like an ill-equipped parent who lost control. "I should have known better;" "I do know better"...you know the voices!

David didn't get in hot water solely from his sin. He had problems because he tried to hide it from God. Last night I was quick to repent, and communicate my love and support to our daughter Megan. Today we are fine. She is a gem. She is right where the Lord wants her. That's God! The enemy is a liar. Never give up, never give in!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/do-you-ever-cross-the-lineSpring Cleaninghttp://www.mickealmccool.com/spring-cleaningSat, 09 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

I never really appreciated the Spring before moving to the East coast. Nothing motivates a household like an overnight guest! We're expecting the arrival of one of Leigh-Ann's dearest friends. The house is spruced up, the basement looks better than it did three days ago, the dogs got a cut and shine, gee, even the twins room smells...well...it smells! Nothing like the Spring!

Until next time,

Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/spring-cleaningDidn't Go As Planned?http://www.mickealmccool.com/didnt-go-as-plannedFri, 08 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

Three states, lots of music, and some really good eats. Yesterday didn't go as planned. My trip to NYC didn't find me and my daughter at the studio in Manhattan to experience a plug-in seminar, but rather in Hoboken, New Jersey waiting in line at Carlo's Bakery for 2.75 hours! Yep, that's right! We arrived in line at 4:30 PM. We walked out of the world famous bakery at 6:45 PM. After a 2 1/2 hour drive, standing on the sidewalks of Hoboken, and fighting the crowd once inside the bakery, we were pretty tired, and definitely hungry! There was  a battle waged inside my head and heart over getting to NYC late, paying the $40.00 to park in the city, and catching what was left of the audio software event; or grabbing a cool dinner with my kid, and heading home to share the delights purchased at the bakery of Cake Boss fame.

It took me a minute, but I opted for dinner with my kid! She used to "hate" Indian food, but not anymore! Yum, yum...Butter Chicken, Tandoori, and Naan...mmm mmm good!

  • Driving 215 miles - $40.00 for gas
  • Tolls - $15.00
  • Carlo's Pastries to share with friends and family - $80.00
  • Watching my kid enjoy Indian food for the first time - Priceless!

Until next time,

Mickeal

 

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/didnt-go-as-plannedFamily Lifehttp://www.mickealmccool.com/family-lifeThu, 07 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

One of my greatest joys in this season of my life is my family! Three teenage daughters has it's challenges, but what a great time we're having! Today Megan and I are attending a workshop in NYC, by way of Carlo's Bakery (Cake Boss). How fun is that? I'll let you know tomorrow!

 Until then,

 Mickeal

]]>http://www.mickealmccool.com/family-lifeAmerican Idolhttp://www.mickealmccool.com/american-idolFri, 18 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMTMickeal McCool

There is a weekly ritual at the McCool household. On Wednesday after Bible Study, and on Thursday after rehearsals, there is a small pack of ladies from the Choir that head over to our home to watch American Idol with Megan, our oldest. I usually stroll in after the show has begun, only to catch the featured drama that accompanies the end of the show. It's always fun to hang out and laugh!

This week was different. This was the week we auditioned for singers at church. Not for the general Choir, but the Vocal Team that sings on mic. It was like our own little Idol audition! The differences are clear, but at the end of the evening, there was disappointment. In God's economy, disappointment may hurt, but the redemptive fruit that results is sweet. I thank God that He doesn't allow us a pain-free existence. Who would I be without pain? Who would you be?

 

Until next time!

Mickeal

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