The Rangers took 2 of 3 against the Yankees. Wow. Chris Davis hit a homerun and had a Top 10 Play of the Day on ESPN. Nippert pitched horribly and the Rangers still won. Kinsler is out of control. This is fun!
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Did you hear the story about the girl who was kidnapped in 1991 and showed up yesterday? It's a tragic story but such a happier ending than we are used to hearing in these situations. I know she has a long road to mental recovery and hope she will be surrounded by people who can help her.
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I'm so tired of Michael Vick protesters. Dog fighting isn't right but his offense has raised a bigger stink than the guy who kidnapped the girl in 1991 will raise. Seriously, what's the worst offense?
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Jerry Jones finds ways to stay in the news. Who would think the screen at his ego-plex could be the biggest story going on around the Cowboys? People are goofy.
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I'm almost of the mindset to boycott the Jerry's Ego-Plex just on principle but there is a high school football event on Labor Day that has me seriously interested in going. Even better, the Texas Longhorns play the North Carolina Tar Heels in basketball there later in the year. I am touching base with every connection to get tickets to that one. If you are loaded and feel the need to do something nice for me, courtside seats are running about $500 each.
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High school football kicks off in earnest this weekend. It looks like I may be hitting games tonight and tomorrow. Fall in Texas.
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I hope you see God in all you do today.
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Crying Out to God
Have you ever cried out to God? Do you know what it is to be sad, upset, angry, frustrated in the core of your being? Psalm 42 gives us a glimpse of David calling out to God, " 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God. My soul is downcast within me..."
Some people reach a place where they are so hurt, so broken inside there is nothing left but God to cling to. Some choose to stay in that empty place, hurt and broken, instead of reaching out to the hand of God that is extended to them. I went to a memorial service yesterday for a young man who was hurting so much that he took his own life. I don't know that anyone who hasn't taken that action truly understands the pain he must have been in but I know God's hand was extended to him and for some reason he couldn't reach out and grab on to God.
I do not pass judgment on the path he chose but I feel confident in saying at that moment, tears flowed from God because the young man could not get past the pain. I am also confident in saying that God is the God of the hurting, God of the downcast, God of the saddened, God of the broken. While I hear people pass judgment on the one who chose to end his life, I can't help but wonder if God has more compassion for the hurting than the judges.
I am praying today that I empty myself of me and allow God to fill me up. Like everyone else, I find myself crying out to God, wondering if He is still with me and in those times, I eventually find Him, his hands extended to me, His love overwhelming me.
Draw me closer Lord, closer Lord to you.
Grace and peace to you.
Some people reach a place where they are so hurt, so broken inside there is nothing left but God to cling to. Some choose to stay in that empty place, hurt and broken, instead of reaching out to the hand of God that is extended to them. I went to a memorial service yesterday for a young man who was hurting so much that he took his own life. I don't know that anyone who hasn't taken that action truly understands the pain he must have been in but I know God's hand was extended to him and for some reason he couldn't reach out and grab on to God.
I do not pass judgment on the path he chose but I feel confident in saying at that moment, tears flowed from God because the young man could not get past the pain. I am also confident in saying that God is the God of the hurting, God of the downcast, God of the saddened, God of the broken. While I hear people pass judgment on the one who chose to end his life, I can't help but wonder if God has more compassion for the hurting than the judges.
I am praying today that I empty myself of me and allow God to fill me up. Like everyone else, I find myself crying out to God, wondering if He is still with me and in those times, I eventually find Him, his hands extended to me, His love overwhelming me.
Draw me closer Lord, closer Lord to you.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
I Don't Know Why
I am attending a memorial service today. A guy my age, a man with 2 children, someone with an infectious smile and good with people decided to take his life. I don't know why.
Yesterday, a high school aged girl was killed while running in downtown Bridgeport. The awning off a building fell as she and a cross country teammate were running killing 1 girl and leaving the other in the hospital. I don't know why.
There are mysteries I don't have answers to. There are questions I can't come to grips with. I don't know why some things happen that leave good people in pain. God knows. He tells us there will be times of pain, times of trials, times to persevere, times that will lead us to Him alone.
I do know these times can bring healing to the heart even in their pain. I do know peace can be found in the most trying of times if the focus is directed correctly. Still, there are questions that my only answer is "I don't know why."
I pray that God brings comfort to those who are hurting today and that they will be surrounded by people who will serve them with the love and compassion that God pours on us.
I do know that in the darkest of times, God reigns. He is sovereign. He will use the worst of situations for great things.
Grace and peace to you.
Yesterday, a high school aged girl was killed while running in downtown Bridgeport. The awning off a building fell as she and a cross country teammate were running killing 1 girl and leaving the other in the hospital. I don't know why.
There are mysteries I don't have answers to. There are questions I can't come to grips with. I don't know why some things happen that leave good people in pain. God knows. He tells us there will be times of pain, times of trials, times to persevere, times that will lead us to Him alone.
I do know these times can bring healing to the heart even in their pain. I do know peace can be found in the most trying of times if the focus is directed correctly. Still, there are questions that my only answer is "I don't know why."
I pray that God brings comfort to those who are hurting today and that they will be surrounded by people who will serve them with the love and compassion that God pours on us.
I do know that in the darkest of times, God reigns. He is sovereign. He will use the worst of situations for great things.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Monday Ramblings
It's the first day of school for the new year. I'm not sure where summer went but I kind of like the idea of being on a schedule again. Soon, I'll be ready for the freedom of summer. I'm not sure it ever really changes.
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Yesterday, many of the people who came to Gear Up! and got a raincheck for a backpack with school supplies came back to pick it up. I'm still excited about what was done that day and continue to pray that the spirit of giving and discipleship will grow in our church family.
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I just deleted a big section of writing because I fear it sounded too self-righteous. It's one of the constant concerns of writing a blog that other people read.
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Whew. The Rangers are headed to New York and we're 1 game behind Boston in the wild card race. Texas seems to play better against better talent so maybe this will be a good series for the team. I hope, I hope, I hope.
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I am praying today that everyone calling themselves Christian and caught up in what Obama is doing more than what God wants Christians to be doing will feel His pull and heed His will for them.
For several years, I was immersed in politics. I knew who they were, I knew how they voted, I knew who I wanted to be in office and who I wanted out. I wanted politicians to make my world a better place but I was missing the point.
God wants me to help make the world a better place. God doesn't care how much I know about American politics or the economy if I am not actively working to feed His children, to help the poor and the hungry, to bring light to the lost.
I am working to align my eyes with His eyes, my ears with His ears, my heart with His heart. I'm far away from what He wants me to be but each day I'm trying to get closer to Him. I've given up much of what used to occupy my time and kept me focused on something other than the battle for hearts and souls.
I hope the day comes when the battle will be about health care and taxes because there is no more hurting, no more hunger, no more homeless, no more lost souls. Until then, I have to keep asking myself what my time and energy needs to be focused on.
I don't want to go through the motions any more.
Grace and peace to you.
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Yesterday, many of the people who came to Gear Up! and got a raincheck for a backpack with school supplies came back to pick it up. I'm still excited about what was done that day and continue to pray that the spirit of giving and discipleship will grow in our church family.
____________________________________________
I just deleted a big section of writing because I fear it sounded too self-righteous. It's one of the constant concerns of writing a blog that other people read.
____________________________________________
Whew. The Rangers are headed to New York and we're 1 game behind Boston in the wild card race. Texas seems to play better against better talent so maybe this will be a good series for the team. I hope, I hope, I hope.
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I am praying today that everyone calling themselves Christian and caught up in what Obama is doing more than what God wants Christians to be doing will feel His pull and heed His will for them.
For several years, I was immersed in politics. I knew who they were, I knew how they voted, I knew who I wanted to be in office and who I wanted out. I wanted politicians to make my world a better place but I was missing the point.
God wants me to help make the world a better place. God doesn't care how much I know about American politics or the economy if I am not actively working to feed His children, to help the poor and the hungry, to bring light to the lost.
I am working to align my eyes with His eyes, my ears with His ears, my heart with His heart. I'm far away from what He wants me to be but each day I'm trying to get closer to Him. I've given up much of what used to occupy my time and kept me focused on something other than the battle for hearts and souls.
I hope the day comes when the battle will be about health care and taxes because there is no more hurting, no more hunger, no more homeless, no more lost souls. Until then, I have to keep asking myself what my time and energy needs to be focused on.
I don't want to go through the motions any more.
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Overreaction Friday
How 'bout those Rangers?! World Series, here we come!
Thursday's "season is over" rant is no more valid than today's "crown us the champs" babbling but I'll tell you this...when Derek Holland pitches and Neftali Feliz comes in to relieve, I think I'd rather be at the park hearing the crowd than sitting at home watching. It gets louder for a couple of pitchers than it does for a home run! At the Rangers game! C-R-A-Z-Y.
I'm willing to bet you a Diet Dr. Pepper that the guys in the dugout are not thinking what a great year 2010 is shaping up to be. Instead, I've got a feeling they are very focused on how to fight their way into October and have a level of confidence they will get there that hasn't been around in years. Good stuff.
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I got this excerpt from Os Hillman yesterday...
God often allows pain to ignite destiny in our lives. Without motivation, many of us would never fulfill the purposes for which God created us. Oftentimes a measured assault invades our life and creates a depth of pain that all we know to do is press into God with all of our being.
I wish I didn't have to go through pain to get better, to get stronger, to heal but that's not the way it typically works. Pain has led me from being a believer to a desire to know God to a desire to be His disciple. Could I have arrived at the same place without pain? Sure but it's not the road I walked so God used something to wake me up, to help me see more clearly, to begin to truly align my heart to His.
I want to live God's purpose in my life. I want to walk the paths He leads me to. I want to fulfill His destiny in my life. It has taken some pain to get me to that point and I say hallelujah that I have arrived at this point. I see different roads I should have taken in the past but I wouldn't trade anything for my ever-growing relationship with God that I have today. He is good and perfect and loving and merciful and I am living in that like I have never lived before.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday's "season is over" rant is no more valid than today's "crown us the champs" babbling but I'll tell you this...when Derek Holland pitches and Neftali Feliz comes in to relieve, I think I'd rather be at the park hearing the crowd than sitting at home watching. It gets louder for a couple of pitchers than it does for a home run! At the Rangers game! C-R-A-Z-Y.
I'm willing to bet you a Diet Dr. Pepper that the guys in the dugout are not thinking what a great year 2010 is shaping up to be. Instead, I've got a feeling they are very focused on how to fight their way into October and have a level of confidence they will get there that hasn't been around in years. Good stuff.
__________________________________________________
I got this excerpt from Os Hillman yesterday...
God often allows pain to ignite destiny in our lives. Without motivation, many of us would never fulfill the purposes for which God created us. Oftentimes a measured assault invades our life and creates a depth of pain that all we know to do is press into God with all of our being.
I wish I didn't have to go through pain to get better, to get stronger, to heal but that's not the way it typically works. Pain has led me from being a believer to a desire to know God to a desire to be His disciple. Could I have arrived at the same place without pain? Sure but it's not the road I walked so God used something to wake me up, to help me see more clearly, to begin to truly align my heart to His.
I want to live God's purpose in my life. I want to walk the paths He leads me to. I want to fulfill His destiny in my life. It has taken some pain to get me to that point and I say hallelujah that I have arrived at this point. I see different roads I should have taken in the past but I wouldn't trade anything for my ever-growing relationship with God that I have today. He is good and perfect and loving and merciful and I am living in that like I have never lived before.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Overreaction Thursday
The Rangers season is over. Two blown games against the Twins and it's painfully obvious this team isn't ready for the playoffs. The pitching staff had a great run (by Rangers standards) but the wheels are coming off. The greatest hitting coach in MLB isn't proving that title right now and the players sure aren't doing much to help. It was fun while it lasted...
OK, now that little rant is out let me say this season wasn't supposed to be near this exciting, that the future sure looks bright AND there is still a good chance the Rangers will figure into the playoff mix. I haven't given up hope in spite of my earlier tirade because I think there are still a few hungry veterans on the team that refuse to give up and there is enough youth that they are going to go keep having fun because they are a) too young to know they should quit and b) looking for bigger money.
It's been a great year and I still expect a few more exciting weeks but I also like to dream what the next few years will bring with Andrus, Feliz, Hunter, Holland, Borbon, et al.
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A confluence of thoughts and conversations have bombarded me recently that are helping to crystallize where I want to go. I've written before about my journey from an "intellectual Christian" to really letting God in my heart but in recent weeks I think I am better defining what I'm feeling. I am wanting to move from believer to disciple. I'm wanting to move from someone who knows what the Bible says about Jesus' life to actively trying to do what Jesus did while on earth.
I was listening to someone talk about what being a disciple meant. Disciples didn't want to just learn from their teacher, they wanted to emulate their teacher in every aspect of life. He said that disciples were even known to follow their rabbi to the bathroom in case he uttered a prayer or said something they might miss. Now, I don't know if that is wholly accurate but the point is the extremes a disciple would go to in order to be like their teacher. How far am I willing to go to follow Jesus? To what extreme would I follow Him, emulate Him, give up everything for Him?
I look forward to more study on what a disciple looks like in my body. I want to be more than a believer, more than a pew sitter and religious philosopher. I want to be more like my teacher everyday.
Grace and peace to you.
OK, now that little rant is out let me say this season wasn't supposed to be near this exciting, that the future sure looks bright AND there is still a good chance the Rangers will figure into the playoff mix. I haven't given up hope in spite of my earlier tirade because I think there are still a few hungry veterans on the team that refuse to give up and there is enough youth that they are going to go keep having fun because they are a) too young to know they should quit and b) looking for bigger money.
It's been a great year and I still expect a few more exciting weeks but I also like to dream what the next few years will bring with Andrus, Feliz, Hunter, Holland, Borbon, et al.
_____________________________________________________
A confluence of thoughts and conversations have bombarded me recently that are helping to crystallize where I want to go. I've written before about my journey from an "intellectual Christian" to really letting God in my heart but in recent weeks I think I am better defining what I'm feeling. I am wanting to move from believer to disciple. I'm wanting to move from someone who knows what the Bible says about Jesus' life to actively trying to do what Jesus did while on earth.
I was listening to someone talk about what being a disciple meant. Disciples didn't want to just learn from their teacher, they wanted to emulate their teacher in every aspect of life. He said that disciples were even known to follow their rabbi to the bathroom in case he uttered a prayer or said something they might miss. Now, I don't know if that is wholly accurate but the point is the extremes a disciple would go to in order to be like their teacher. How far am I willing to go to follow Jesus? To what extreme would I follow Him, emulate Him, give up everything for Him?
I look forward to more study on what a disciple looks like in my body. I want to be more than a believer, more than a pew sitter and religious philosopher. I want to be more like my teacher everyday.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Welcome Back Pudge
It was good to see Pudge back with the Rangers. I hope it works out that he can retire here and still be a contributor for a few more years.
It was not good to see the Rangers drop that game last night. It was shaky Monday night and last night wasn't pretty at all. The Angels are like a runaway steam train and Boston won't play bad forever. Saying all of that, the Rangers are something like 20-12 since the All-Star break so I have no complaints about what is going on. It's fun to be talking about them in August.
I was at the game Monday and Tommy Hunter got a big ovation walking off the field and Neftali Felix got a big ovation coming on the field. How many times have 2 Rangers pitchers been applauded in the same game? Oh yeah...no home runs that night. Wacky!
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I just got word that the son of a friend of mine (not local) committed suicide over the weekend. I was talking to someone who had heard and we were discussing how much pain someone has to be in to think that's the only way out. Some people reading this probably know that pain and others don't. I've heard people refer to suicide as selfish, and maybe it is, but I wonder if that person saying that has any clue the misery the other person was going through. Anyway, we were talking about what a blessing it is to have someone you can share your problems with, no matter how painful or bad or scary it might be.
I'm pretty sure that is what God wants for us. I'm pretty sure that is one of the purposes he created the church for. I'm pretty sure that is what disciples do for each other.
I hope I never get another phone call about someone committing suicide (physical or spiritual) because they didn't have someone to help carry their burdens.
Grace and peace to you.
It was not good to see the Rangers drop that game last night. It was shaky Monday night and last night wasn't pretty at all. The Angels are like a runaway steam train and Boston won't play bad forever. Saying all of that, the Rangers are something like 20-12 since the All-Star break so I have no complaints about what is going on. It's fun to be talking about them in August.
I was at the game Monday and Tommy Hunter got a big ovation walking off the field and Neftali Felix got a big ovation coming on the field. How many times have 2 Rangers pitchers been applauded in the same game? Oh yeah...no home runs that night. Wacky!
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I just got word that the son of a friend of mine (not local) committed suicide over the weekend. I was talking to someone who had heard and we were discussing how much pain someone has to be in to think that's the only way out. Some people reading this probably know that pain and others don't. I've heard people refer to suicide as selfish, and maybe it is, but I wonder if that person saying that has any clue the misery the other person was going through. Anyway, we were talking about what a blessing it is to have someone you can share your problems with, no matter how painful or bad or scary it might be.
I'm pretty sure that is what God wants for us. I'm pretty sure that is one of the purposes he created the church for. I'm pretty sure that is what disciples do for each other.
I hope I never get another phone call about someone committing suicide (physical or spiritual) because they didn't have someone to help carry their burdens.
Grace and peace to you.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Fill Me Up
For years I have prayed for what I wanted. More recently, I have prayed boldly for what I wanted. I have asked God to do outrageous things and had no concern for the asking but realize my prayers were more about me and less about what an awesome God can do when I stand out of the way. Today, I hope my prayer is even more bold yet very simple.
Lord, you are mightier than I can comprehend. Your love is indescribable and your forgiveness brings me to my knees in tears. I don't fully grasp your love and mercy and grace and compassion but I pray you fill me with it today. Father, forgive me when I put me ahead of you. Today, please use me to be your instrument of peace. Amen.
Grace and peace to you.
Lord, you are mightier than I can comprehend. Your love is indescribable and your forgiveness brings me to my knees in tears. I don't fully grasp your love and mercy and grace and compassion but I pray you fill me with it today. Father, forgive me when I put me ahead of you. Today, please use me to be your instrument of peace. Amen.
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Crime and Punishment
Sports radio is wound up today discussing Michael Vick and whether he should be able to play football again. Are you kidding me? I don't condone what he did but people do worse things to harm humanity every day and suffer a slap on the wrist compared with the price Vick has paid. Leave him alone and let him play. Of course, the danger is that we have to go back to looking at ourselves and our warts instead of focusing on those belonging to someone else.
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I'm ready for college football to get rolling. Hook 'em Horns.
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I have said I have no interest in going to JerryWorld but I saw a football lineup on September 5 with 4 high school games that might tempt me to venture out to his ego-plex.
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The Little League World Series started last night with 2 Texas teams playing but I missed it (pulling weeds and getting thorns in my hands instead - yippee!). This is one of the sporting events I really enjoy watching because the kids are playing for the love of the game. I'm not sure about some of the coaches but the kids are fun to watch.
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The Rangers and Red Sox this weekend. It should be a fun series to watch although Youkilis will be out which takes some good hitting out of Boston's lineup. Have you noticed the Rangers are still in the playoff mix and pitching is what is carrying them?
I had to take some time off from going to the game because of my world travels but I go back to the ballpark on Monday and can't wait. I have learned to love the game and being at a baseball field gives me a sense of peace as I step out of the hustle and bustle of life.
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Have a good weekend.
Grace and peace to you.
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I'm ready for college football to get rolling. Hook 'em Horns.
________________________________________________________
I have said I have no interest in going to JerryWorld but I saw a football lineup on September 5 with 4 high school games that might tempt me to venture out to his ego-plex.
________________________________________________________
The Little League World Series started last night with 2 Texas teams playing but I missed it (pulling weeds and getting thorns in my hands instead - yippee!). This is one of the sporting events I really enjoy watching because the kids are playing for the love of the game. I'm not sure about some of the coaches but the kids are fun to watch.
________________________________________________________
The Rangers and Red Sox this weekend. It should be a fun series to watch although Youkilis will be out which takes some good hitting out of Boston's lineup. Have you noticed the Rangers are still in the playoff mix and pitching is what is carrying them?
I had to take some time off from going to the game because of my world travels but I go back to the ballpark on Monday and can't wait. I have learned to love the game and being at a baseball field gives me a sense of peace as I step out of the hustle and bustle of life.
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Have a good weekend.
Grace and peace to you.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
What? When? Where?
What did God prepare me to do? Ephesians 2 says I am God's handiwork and He has prepared something in advance for me to do. What is it? Will I know when the time comes? Have I missed it? Is it for the spiritual battles I'm fighting now and/or battles to come?
I think most people want to know what their purpose is. Some give up and drift along while others jump from one thing to the next desperately searching everywhere for theirs. I have been at both extremes at one time or another but I have finally gotten comfortable waiting for the time and purpose to come to me. I can plan all I want to but there are so many variables that it becomes impossible to follow the plan to the letter. I can shut my eyes and ignore what is going on and my time can go by...or go by over and over again.
Now, I want to be prepared to act on the opportunities and to overcome the obstacles that come my way but I will wait on God to lead me to my opportunities and to guide me over my obstacles. I want neither to ignore nor shirk my responsibilities, only to rest in the Lord until it is time to act in the capacity He has planned for me.
Ignoring my path leaves me empty. Creating my path leaves me worn out. Walking with God along my path has brought me peace I never imagined.
Grace and peace to you.
I think most people want to know what their purpose is. Some give up and drift along while others jump from one thing to the next desperately searching everywhere for theirs. I have been at both extremes at one time or another but I have finally gotten comfortable waiting for the time and purpose to come to me. I can plan all I want to but there are so many variables that it becomes impossible to follow the plan to the letter. I can shut my eyes and ignore what is going on and my time can go by...or go by over and over again.
Now, I want to be prepared to act on the opportunities and to overcome the obstacles that come my way but I will wait on God to lead me to my opportunities and to guide me over my obstacles. I want neither to ignore nor shirk my responsibilities, only to rest in the Lord until it is time to act in the capacity He has planned for me.
Ignoring my path leaves me empty. Creating my path leaves me worn out. Walking with God along my path has brought me peace I never imagined.
Grace and peace to you.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
In The Game
I recently heard a great line from a preacher. He set it up by asking "How many more Beth Moore studies do we need to have, how many more men's prayer and fellowship meetings do we need to have?" Then he drops the line...
"When are we going to put down the playbooks and start running the plays?"
It's a great question. I have been guilty of being willing to study what I need to do but not getting on the playing field to do it. I have been guilty of telling myself I need to have it all perfect in my head before I can go execute it and have let that stop me from doing much at all. When will I put down the playbook and start running the plays?
I think I've come a long ways in that regard and pray that God continues to lead me onto the field to run his plays. Gear Up! was all about running the plays and a lot of Christians got on the field to play.
I thank God for giving me the playbook so I can prepare (and I certainly need to continue studying the plays) but my prayer today is that God will put me in the game and let me play.
Grace and peace to you.
"When are we going to put down the playbooks and start running the plays?"
It's a great question. I have been guilty of being willing to study what I need to do but not getting on the playing field to do it. I have been guilty of telling myself I need to have it all perfect in my head before I can go execute it and have let that stop me from doing much at all. When will I put down the playbook and start running the plays?
I think I've come a long ways in that regard and pray that God continues to lead me onto the field to run his plays. Gear Up! was all about running the plays and a lot of Christians got on the field to play.
I thank God for giving me the playbook so I can prepare (and I certainly need to continue studying the plays) but my prayer today is that God will put me in the game and let me play.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Gear Up!
We had the most exciting day at church on Sunday. Instead of doing a traditional VBS this year, some sharp minds mixed with Jesus' example of serving others and created "Gear Up!" where our church would offer free backpacks and school supplies to some needy folks in Wise County. We had 400 backpacks ready to go and planned to give 100 rainchecks out if needed. We had 1,000 hot dogs ready, puppets, crafts, singing, free haircuts, dental supplies, a notary and immunizations for school kids and 130 or so volunteers ready to do whatever was needed.
From what I have heard, we gave away all the backpacks and 272 rainchecks. The 1,000 dogs were gone and I don't think any of the volunteers ate any so it was all people who came for the event. I think there were 5 or 6 hair cutting stations that stayed busy for 3 hours. Anywhere from 800 to 1,200 people passed through. What an afternoon!
I know we helped some people financially. I hope we touched some people spiritually. I'm convinced 130+ volunteers went home thankful to be able to give a little to those in need. I believe God was glorified yesterday and seeds were planted. I pray fruit will be borne, that hearts will be changed and that those of us who served will seek more opportunities to keep serving.
I'm thankful for the people who came up with the great idea. I'm thankful for those in need who came. I'm thankful that God was a part of an incredible time of service.
Grace and peace to you.
From what I have heard, we gave away all the backpacks and 272 rainchecks. The 1,000 dogs were gone and I don't think any of the volunteers ate any so it was all people who came for the event. I think there were 5 or 6 hair cutting stations that stayed busy for 3 hours. Anywhere from 800 to 1,200 people passed through. What an afternoon!
I know we helped some people financially. I hope we touched some people spiritually. I'm convinced 130+ volunteers went home thankful to be able to give a little to those in need. I believe God was glorified yesterday and seeds were planted. I pray fruit will be borne, that hearts will be changed and that those of us who served will seek more opportunities to keep serving.
I'm thankful for the people who came up with the great idea. I'm thankful for those in need who came. I'm thankful that God was a part of an incredible time of service.
Grace and peace to you.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Josh and The Brothers
I am a Josh Hamilton fan. He has overcome battles many of us would never understand and has returned to the national stage of baseball proclaiming that the love of Jesus is what brought him back from the depths of evil.
This weekend, I started hearing the reports of photos on the Internet of Hamilton doing things he shouldn't be doing and couldn't help but wonder if it was true or just someone trying to cause trouble.
Sure enough, he admits it was him and goes on to tell how he notified his wife and his employer as soon as it happened. In my mind, that is the sign of a person who knows what it is to live in the shame of sin and the freedom brought on by knowing his forgiveness from God is secure. Not only that, he is also forgiven and supported by the people who could easily tear him apart. That is God working in the hearts of people.
A brother took what his father gave him and went out into the world to live the worldly life, losing everything. He came back to his father wanting only to be treated like a hired hand but the father threw a feast. We are not told the father set him down and scolded him. We are not told the father made the son earn his trust over time. We are not told the father kept a wary eye on him waiting to catch him do something wrong.
Jesus tells us in Luke that the father ran to him! The father didn't even wait for the son to come to him, tail between his legs groveling for forgiveness. The father ran to meet him. Wow. How many times have I run to someone who has hurt me when I knew they were sorry for it? But that's not all, he also threw a feast! Even more, he put a robe on the son's back, a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. (There is symbolism in all those things that make it more special than a casual reading can do justice but I won't go there now.)
Then there's the older brother. Disappointed. Chastising. Self-righteous.
When you see someone like Hamilton mess up, do you connect more with the returning brother or the self-righteous brother? Do you understand the shame of sin or do you revel in the fact you haven't done anything that bad? When someone treats you like Hamilton treated those who trusted him, do you connect more with the father or the self-righteous brother? Do you run to grant them forgiveness then lift them up like royalty or do you stand in the back wondering why they should get so much attention and such mercy? I know who I want to connect with from this day on.
Hamilton messed up (raise your hand if you haven't), Hamilton hurt people close to him (raise your hand if you haven't), Hamilton gave in to the evil side of the spiritual battle (raise your hand if you haven't) but...this is BIG...but the Father is throwing a party that Hamilton came home humbled and saddened by his failing. The Father won't bring it up again, won't hold it over his head, won't make him wait for complete forgiveness and unconditional love.
How will we react to the Josh Hamilton's in our life?
Interesting sidenote...C. J. Wilson, a pitcher on the team, put this on Twitter..."I'll only say this once about Josh so listen up- he's a bigger man than anyone I know. Who else can admit EVERY mistake they've ever made?" I don't know if Wilson is a Christian but do you think Hamilton's actions are making an impact on him?
Grace and peace to you.
This weekend, I started hearing the reports of photos on the Internet of Hamilton doing things he shouldn't be doing and couldn't help but wonder if it was true or just someone trying to cause trouble.
Sure enough, he admits it was him and goes on to tell how he notified his wife and his employer as soon as it happened. In my mind, that is the sign of a person who knows what it is to live in the shame of sin and the freedom brought on by knowing his forgiveness from God is secure. Not only that, he is also forgiven and supported by the people who could easily tear him apart. That is God working in the hearts of people.
A brother took what his father gave him and went out into the world to live the worldly life, losing everything. He came back to his father wanting only to be treated like a hired hand but the father threw a feast. We are not told the father set him down and scolded him. We are not told the father made the son earn his trust over time. We are not told the father kept a wary eye on him waiting to catch him do something wrong.
Jesus tells us in Luke that the father ran to him! The father didn't even wait for the son to come to him, tail between his legs groveling for forgiveness. The father ran to meet him. Wow. How many times have I run to someone who has hurt me when I knew they were sorry for it? But that's not all, he also threw a feast! Even more, he put a robe on the son's back, a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. (There is symbolism in all those things that make it more special than a casual reading can do justice but I won't go there now.)
Then there's the older brother. Disappointed. Chastising. Self-righteous.
When you see someone like Hamilton mess up, do you connect more with the returning brother or the self-righteous brother? Do you understand the shame of sin or do you revel in the fact you haven't done anything that bad? When someone treats you like Hamilton treated those who trusted him, do you connect more with the father or the self-righteous brother? Do you run to grant them forgiveness then lift them up like royalty or do you stand in the back wondering why they should get so much attention and such mercy? I know who I want to connect with from this day on.
Hamilton messed up (raise your hand if you haven't), Hamilton hurt people close to him (raise your hand if you haven't), Hamilton gave in to the evil side of the spiritual battle (raise your hand if you haven't) but...this is BIG...but the Father is throwing a party that Hamilton came home humbled and saddened by his failing. The Father won't bring it up again, won't hold it over his head, won't make him wait for complete forgiveness and unconditional love.
How will we react to the Josh Hamilton's in our life?
Interesting sidenote...C. J. Wilson, a pitcher on the team, put this on Twitter..."I'll only say this once about Josh so listen up- he's a bigger man than anyone I know. Who else can admit EVERY mistake they've ever made?" I don't know if Wilson is a Christian but do you think Hamilton's actions are making an impact on him?
Grace and peace to you.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Home At Last
It's been a long but fruitful week. I have been uplifted by spending time with the church in Aracaju and seeing and hearing their love for the Lord and their passion for reaching the lost. It is something they not only talk about, they do it. It's incredible to hear them and watch them, to see the way they interact and to hear about the things they are doing to reach others.
One of the small groups there has already baptized 5 people from their neighborhood. One member is converting his farm to a rehabilitation facility for alcohol and drug addictions. There are others who are having Bible studies with people they work with. The next step is helping the church mature. It is filled with young Christians and few people willing to work in leadership roles but it is growing. Two young couples have moved to Aracaju in the past 2 years who have been in the church most of their lives and they are doing some good things to get people involved and growing.
It was a LONG trip back. 24 1/2 hours from the time I woke up Thursday morning until I got home Friday morning. 12 hours sleep in the last 3 days. Not a perfect way to live but I've been running on adrenaline. Hopefully I will get to sleep some today (if the roofers aren't too loud) and begin getting back in the groove tomorrow and working with the missionary in Aracaju to continue building the kingdom there.
I thank God for the opportunity to share in this work and to see the fruit of evangelism. He is SO good.
Grace and peace to you.
One of the small groups there has already baptized 5 people from their neighborhood. One member is converting his farm to a rehabilitation facility for alcohol and drug addictions. There are others who are having Bible studies with people they work with. The next step is helping the church mature. It is filled with young Christians and few people willing to work in leadership roles but it is growing. Two young couples have moved to Aracaju in the past 2 years who have been in the church most of their lives and they are doing some good things to get people involved and growing.
It was a LONG trip back. 24 1/2 hours from the time I woke up Thursday morning until I got home Friday morning. 12 hours sleep in the last 3 days. Not a perfect way to live but I've been running on adrenaline. Hopefully I will get to sleep some today (if the roofers aren't too loud) and begin getting back in the groove tomorrow and working with the missionary in Aracaju to continue building the kingdom there.
I thank God for the opportunity to share in this work and to see the fruit of evangelism. He is SO good.
Grace and peace to you.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
A Million Miles Away
There are times when I feel so disconnected from things of life, from people, from tasks, from God. I feel like I am a million miles away, floating, sometimes coming nearer and sometimes drifting further away. It's not a feeling I enjoy because I want to be connected but something is happening that prevents it. I don't like the feeling of being a million miles away but it's not always in my control.
I have felt that disconnect with the people closest to me at times and it takes me through a gamut of emotions but most of all, it is a feeling of sadness and loneliness. I have felt that disconnect with God too and it brings out the same emotions. While it is not a pleasant experience, one thing I do know is that there is always hope of reconnecting, of traveling through time and space, of overcoming obstacles and being with who I had felt separated from. There is always hope.
One of the joys I have experienced this week is sharing time with people who are very connected to God and their connectedness is contagious. Their heart and desire to serve God is evident in their words and their expressions and the joy they bring in telling you some of the great things they are experiencing through their service to God. Some of it brings chills because their excitement gets me excited.
I want to be connected with the people I love and I want to be connected with God - plugged into His plan for me. It's a wonderful feeling to share hope with loved ones and it's a wonderful thing to bask in the hope we are given as children of God.
Grace and peace to you.
I have felt that disconnect with the people closest to me at times and it takes me through a gamut of emotions but most of all, it is a feeling of sadness and loneliness. I have felt that disconnect with God too and it brings out the same emotions. While it is not a pleasant experience, one thing I do know is that there is always hope of reconnecting, of traveling through time and space, of overcoming obstacles and being with who I had felt separated from. There is always hope.
One of the joys I have experienced this week is sharing time with people who are very connected to God and their connectedness is contagious. Their heart and desire to serve God is evident in their words and their expressions and the joy they bring in telling you some of the great things they are experiencing through their service to God. Some of it brings chills because their excitement gets me excited.
I want to be connected with the people I love and I want to be connected with God - plugged into His plan for me. It's a wonderful feeling to share hope with loved ones and it's a wonderful thing to bask in the hope we are given as children of God.
Grace and peace to you.
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